Louise Hedman

Angels are all winners on this journey

Icing is usually the topping on a delicious desert that is savoured as it hits the palate. For the U19AA Angels ringette team, the icing on our 2022-23 season was defeating the Flames on March 5 in the provincial championship game to win the honour of representing Manitoba. We had reached the top of the mountain we had worked hard all season to climb.

The win meant we travelled to Regina, Sask., from April 9 to 15 for the week-long Ringette Canada national championships, where teams from all over Canada converged to determine the top teams in ringette.

All the games were played at the Co-operators Centre, a huge multi rink facility that is also home to other sports. At any given time there were five ringette games being played, and the hallways spilled over with spectators, who donned both conservative and humorous attire representing their team colours. Several of our players were chosen to compete in the skills competition on Friday and did well. U19 Team Manitoba came out hard and strong but could not clinch a win in its first three games. After a tie-breaking winner our fourth game, we carried on until we were knocked out of the loop on Thursday. Alberta dominated, winning the top three medals of the tournament. Although we placed 11th in Canada, it was a sad end to the season, especially for the girls who would not be returning to play due to aging out or continuing on with higher education.

Tears flowed and sadness set in. Players and family members experienced a variety of emotions at that moment. When you know something so great is coming to an end, it can be hard to process. There will be a huge empty space that was once filled for 15 years with the hustle and bustle of weekly practice, dry-land training and games. We will miss the camaraderie amongst parents and friends, the laughter of the girls, the happiness after victories, driving all over the city and spending all that money — just kidding, it was all worth every penny. A huge shout to the coaches and managers who bring the team together, it can’t be done without the countless hours and love you give to the girls.

Angels bring home ringette gold

It’s not often you’ll hear the word Angels and gold in the same sentence — angels is a word usually associated with heaven or baseball teams or cream cheese commercials. But things have changed.

We have not forgotten

Over the past two years, many loved ones lost their lives due to a variety of illnesses or tragedies Most families did not have the opportunity to have closure in the traditional way.

Resisting adulthood

It’s that time again — the time when young adults have to field the questions from family, friends, siblings and educators,

New Transcona business opening soon

Two home-based businesses that began as passion projects will soon open a cute boutique in a bustling Transcona mall.

The true meaning of ‘team’

The feeling of belonging to something is huge for the psyche. It enables people to feel purpose and hope, and attaining a goal after working hard on physical and mental improvement is what makes the journey worthwhile.

The Canadian ringette championships were held from April 3 to 9 in Calgary, Alta. Ringette athletes, coaches and officials from across Canada converged to compete at an elite level and to encourage sportsmanship and visibility of the sport. The tournament determined Canadian champions in the U16AA, U19AA and National Ringette League categories.

Being part of the AA ringette world is one of the best life experiences our family has had. The girls are proof that they can be nurtured and evolve into young women who have learned to physically endure pain and injury but still push themselves to the limit in order to achieve a goal. Proof they do actually listen to adults who are there to guide them through the obstacles. (Go figure.) Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, our team was faced with ice and dryland training restrictions but endured to earn its spots at the national championship.

That their coaches donated their time and talent to teach these young girls is appreciated to an extent that words and gifts can’t express. They reinforced the fact that these girls are genuinely cared about, which is huge for impressionable young women. They encouraged the achievements and gently critiqued the mistakes (even if their inner voices were screaming.) Overall, the U19AA coaches this year were great and we are very sad to see them move on. (Insert tears here.)

An expression of frustration

Society is a collection of all types. There are those who understand the rules and laws and abide by them, there are those and those who were never taught or who refuse to obey our rules and law. There are also those who will stop at nothing to prove a point or to show their muscle for personal satisfaction and to achieve what they feel they deserve. Whether it’s kids at school who gang together to harass and intimidate chosen targets; workplace bullies who use their devious skills to move up the ladder; or people in the streets who try and intimidate and harass. Documentaries, research and real-life situations are out there for societies to learn from, but it seems nothing ever changes.  School divisions turn a blind eye and tell parents bullying doesn’t exist. Parents believe their children would never behave in that manner. Yet there real-life teenage suicides related to bullying all the time.  Now we have groups causing school lockdowns by showing up and banging on windows and shouting out their cause, as happened in Steinbach a couple of weeks. Truly unfathomable.  Recent “rallies” in multiple cities across Canada and the world are a fine example of bullying. Do these people feel good about themselves, forcing innocent people to stay home from work, depriving them of a good night’s sleep or for just trying to survive after a global pandemic has changed life as we knew it. These bullies are holding people hostage against their will. The last time I checked, that was against the law. We have elections and laws for a reason — to maintain the peaceful co-existence of society. Fringe groups such as this should not be able to dictate how they think things should be.  Many believe governments need to bring in the big guys and arrest, impose fines, impound, evaluate and withhold licenses to regain law and order. These senseless acts of defiance are affecting all of us in one way or another.We get your point - you don’t want to get vaccinated, you don’t want to wear masks, you want to be able to do whatever you want whenever you want and you hate being told what to do. You want ‘freedom.’  In case you haven’t noticed, Canada is one of the freest countries in the world. We have fair elections; all people have access to education, the freedom to obtain employment, to purchase homes or goods, to play, to travel, etc. We already have freedom. The majority understands that when a killer virus descends upon the earth, special rules have to be made to protect the population. Yes, it’s been going on a long time and we are tired of it but if everyone had done their parts when asked, this may have been over long ago. Stop degrading our Canadian flag and let us be proud of it once again.    Louise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

Society is a collection of all types. 

There are those who understand the rules and laws and abide by them, there are those and those who were never taught or who refuse to obey our rules and law. There are also those who will stop at nothing to prove a point or to show their muscle for personal satisfaction and to achieve what they feel they deserve. 

Whether it’s kids at school who gang together to harass and intimidate chosen targets; workplace bullies who use their devious skills to move up the ladder; or people in the streets who try and intimidate and harass. 

Enjoy our winter wonderland

Many people dread the change of seasons from summer to fall and then to winter.  Others embrace the sights of multi-coloured leaves, the smell of the forest floor and then the crisp, beautiful white landscape and activities not offered in summer months.Winnipeg and the surrounding area never ceases to amaze me with how engaged people and communities are when it comes to fun things to do in the winter.  The Forks offers the awesome Nestaweya River Trail,peppered with imaginative art for people to enjoy while spending time outdoors.  This year the addition of snow bikes is sure to attract people to participate in something new.  Our multiple community centres offer outdoor rinks for beginners learning to skate or for playing a fun game of ringette or hockey with friends. Some communities have come together to create neighbourhood rinks or ponds for people of all ages to enjoy without going too far from home.We have a few (small) ski hills within a short distance of the city where beginners to advanced skiers can enjoy a day practising or learning skills. There are cross country ski trails and multiple walking trails in every neighborhood. Our provincial parks are gems within a short driving distance where one can cross country ski, hike, cycle or just hang out with friends surrounded by the silence of the forest.  For those of you who are brave enough to bundle up and get out that door, the end result of fresh air and a change of scenery can be a life-changer in this world of uncertainty and isolation. Here are a few online sites that suggest winter outdoor activities and every region offer a tourism site with local suggestions:• www.travelmanitoba.com;• www.centrtalmbtourism.com;• www.particpaction.com Louise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

Many people dread the change of seasons from summer to fall and then to winter.  

Others embrace the sights of multi-coloured leaves, the smell of the forest floor and then the crisp, beautiful white landscape and activities not offered in summer months.

Winnipeg and the surrounding area never ceases to amaze me with how engaged people and communities are when it comes to fun things to do in the winter.  The Forks offers the awesome Nestaweya River Trail, peppered with imaginative art for people to enjoy while spending time outdoors.  This year the addition of snow bikes is sure to attract people to participate in something new.  

Transcona says farewell to an old friend

I heard through the grapevine that D & S Auto Service had been sold. I stopped by to confirm and sure enough there was a steady stream of cars filled with longtime friends, customers, family and those who considered them family who had come to say their goodbyes.  Some had been friends with Dave Hrynchuk from way back when he started, 45 years ago.  All were reminiscing about how they had enjoyed bringing their vehicles there, how they enjoyed the conversations and became teary-eyed and emotional while saying their goodbyes.  I had to wait my turn to have a chat, and Dave obliged me. He had been floating the idea of selling for a few years and when the opportunity came along he finally took the leap to retirement. I wrote an article a while back about a secret Transcona place, and now the location has been revealed.  D & S Service has been the heart of the 100 block of Regent Avenue West for over 4 decades. My husband took his first vehicle to the D & S shop at 122 Regent when he was just a teenager, thus beginning the long relationship our family has had with Dave and his brothers, Steve and Jack. They have served multiple generations over the years.Dave was always smiling, always pleasant and would always fit you in. The shop may not have been pretty but you would always receive great service at an affordable price.  You could stop in for a chat and a coffee or drop off some food or drink as a show of appreciation. The back room was a gathering space for a coffee and some laughs.  The phone wasn’t answered often but that would be the signal they were busy and you had to drop by.  It will be a sad day when we can no longer say,:“Just bring it to D & S”.  I happened to be there when one of Dave’s friends brought his vehicle by for a look, which made for the great photo that I am sharing here. Some people will now be lost for where to go for vehicle repairs or a simple tire plug, especially the older generation, who have relied on them for so long. What will my mom do when she can no longer visit with “Dave” every couple of weeks?  I have suggested to Dave that the D & S community gathers once per month for a Dine with Dave event. A different local restaurant location can be chosen, which will continue support of our local businesses while allowing all those who miss the great chats and laughs to continue.   If you haven’t already, take a walk or drive and say your goodbyes before the doors roll down on this great Transcona business.   Thank you, Dave, Jack and Dennis for everything you brought to our little community. Other tributes can be seen on the Transcona, And Proud of It Facebook group.Louise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona.  

I heard through the grapevine that D & S Auto Service had been sold. I stopped by to confirm and sure enough there was a steady stream of cars filled with longtime friends, customers, family and those who considered them family who had come to say their goodbyes.  

Some had been friends with Dave Hrynchuk from way back when he started, 45 years ago.  All were reminiscing about how they had enjoyed bringing their vehicles there, how they enjoyed the conversations and became teary-eyed and emotional while saying their goodbyes.  

Preserving our history

Most people who have resided in the Transcona area or travel here regularly know of the 2747 train engine which rests just east of Plessis Road in the Rotary Park.  In April of 1926, the 2747 was the first steam engine locomotive to be built at the CN shops in Transcona.  The Transcona Museum acquired the engine in 2015 and alongside volunteers, board members, staff and community members, has begun working on the restoration process. Now that the engine itself has been restored, the next step is to offer protection from the elements in order to offer a safe and inviting space for all to enjoy it.   A capital campaign has been launched to raise funds for a permanent enclosure surrounding the engine.  To date, the museum has raised approximately one half of the required funds and is reaching out to the community to keep the campaign going.  The Transcona Museum will be hosting a Doors Open event at the engine on Sept. 11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. where the gates will be open for the public to view the engine, take pictures and check out the progress that has been made on the restoration. No one will be permitted to enter the engine or climb on it at this time. The museum will be hosting a similar event on Sat., Sept. 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (weather permitting) for Culture Days.  There will be information and a full display on the capital campaign and preliminary design of the enclosure. The public will have the opportunity to offer comments on the design. There will also be an artifact signing over of components originally from the CN2747 that the Winnipeg Railway Museum has located in its collection and will be donating to the Transcona Museum and the 2747. If the weather does not co-operate, the signing over will be moved to the Transcona Museum. All COVID regulations will be followed for both events and the public will be required to wear masks inside the fenced area.  More information can be found through the Transcona Museum website at www.transconamuseum.mb.ca or www.transconamuseum.mb.ca/get-on-boardLouise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

Most people who have resided in the Transcona area or travel here regularly know of the 2747 train engine which rests just east of Plessis Road in the Rotary Park.  

In April of 1926, the 2747 was the first steam engine locomotive to be built at the CN shops in Transcona.  The Transcona Museum acquired the engine in 2015 and alongside volunteers, board members, staff and community members, has begun working on the restoration process. Now that the engine itself has been restored, the next step is to offer protection from the elements in order to offer a safe and inviting space for all to enjoy it.   

A capital campaign has been launched to raise funds for a permanent enclosure surrounding the engine.  To date, the museum has raised approximately one half of the required funds and is reaching out to the community to keep the campaign going.  

South Transcona CC offers plenty

Some people have never discovered this place, while others are familiar.  The South Transcona Community Centre sits in a beautiful park setting, nestled between Webster Avenue, Borden Avenue and Copeland Street in south Transcona.The centre goes way back to the early 1960s, when community members came together to create a space for neighbourhood families to gather and play. Since its inception there have been many changes to the facility and words can’t say enough to thank the countless volunteers who help keep it operating.  Owing to its location, getting here is limited to vehicle or access via the South Transcona walking trail. Times have changed and families have become quite busy with the hustle and bustle of daily life. Families don’t seem to have the spare time to just go and hang out at the club, to help fix a broken board or organize a random game of hockey. However, the past 18 months have shown us how that there still are families out there who enjoy the facility when time is abundant. The outdoor rink was used more this past winter than any time we can remember.  Hockey and ringette teams actually came out to practise outdoors. What?   An excellent group of volunteers manually flooded and maintained the ice surface for all to enjoy, all while thoroughly enjoying the process. The weather, of course, plays a huge role in how long the ice will last; with manual equipment it becomes even more difficult.Summer use of the outdoor rink is now in full swing for rollerblading and ball hockey and, of course, our wading pool is open Tuesday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are three brand new basketball hoops and backboards, and a large pickleball court (equipment is available upon request).  The centre itself has also been fully renovated and includes a fully accessible ramp on the exterior, three brand new washrooms, a larger hall area, and large kitchen space.  The official grand opening was delayed due to unfortunate world events but will occur in the near future. A classic car show-and -shine event is being planned for this fall, so stay tuned.  Now that the space is new again the centre is looking to attract user groups who may find it suitable to run fitness, art or cooking classes or other fun and educational events. The centre also looks forward to continuing annual events such as family fun day, breakfast with Santa, the night of lights, quiz night, and it is considering the addition of bingo and movie nights into the mix.  New board members are needed who are dedicated to go forward with passion to create, attract and maintain this great little club.   If you are interested in keeping on top of the events or renting the facility you can visit the website at www.southtranscona.com Louise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona and president of the South Transcona Community Centre.

Some people have never discovered this place, while others are familiar.  

The South Transcona Community Centre sits in a beautiful park setting, nestled between Webster Avenue, Borden Avenue and Copeland Street in south Transcona.

The centre goes way back to the early 1960s, when community members came together to create a space for neighbourhood families to gather and play. Since its inception there have been many changes to the facility and words can’t say enough to thank the countless volunteers who help keep it operating.  

Development raises questions with residents

A new industrial development has been proposed within the R.M. of Springfield for a section of land directly south of the Greater Winnipeg Water District Railway and Aqueduct.  Some of the area residents have been present at two online Zoom meetings hosted by Waterside Development at which it has presented reports on ground water management, traffic studies and possible layout and usages for the park. The No. 1 concern of residents is the projected increase of large-truck traffic on Plessis Road North and South and the dangers associated with it. Plessis Road is a two-lane asphalt roadway with skinny gravel shoulders and deep sloping ditches. Its original purpose was not to accommodate continuous semi-trailer traffic to and from the CN Intermodal terminal or become a main transportation hub for business. The proposed development would have no roadway access other than Plessis Road which lies within the City of Winnipeg and is maintained by the City of Winnipeg public works department. The main tenant on this roadway is CN Intermodal, which was pushed into the community of Transcona in 2002 by the city council and executive policy committee at the time. The reasoning was that it would reduce trucking activity on Kenaston Boulevard, reduce vehicular delays at the Kenaston mainline crossing and Wilkes spur, and reduce the cost of a future underpass at Kenaston Boulevard. At the time, the residents of South Tuxedo expressed concerns of excessive noise related to train activity associated with the facility. CN was awarded a grant in the amount of $220,000 to offset the property taxes at the Kenaston site which acted as an incentive to make the move. The residents of Transcona were not given any warning of this recommendation and all of a sudden the terminal was in our community.  At the time, CN had also indicated that they would use Fermor Avenue to access Plessis Road and the relocated terminal, therefore having minimal impact on the residential portion of Plessis north of the terminal. But that’s not what has happened.Since the new neighbors moved in, there have been many accidents and close calls in the residential neighborhood of Plessis Road South, not to mention ongoing road rage expressed at residents.  There is a hope that the proposed development will shine a much needed spotlight on the ongoing struggles of the residents of Plessis Road and surrounding areas and how the increased truck traffic in our community is a danger to all when the roadways are not properly equipped.   This issue also highlights the fact that there is friction between residents of existing residential neighborhoods within city limits when a bordering rural municipality explores development right on its boundary with the city. On one side of the boundary, residents pay a premium in property taxes and the environmental rules may differ within 50 feet of one another.  More info on this proposed development can be found at www.plessiscommercial.ca Louise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona.  

A new industrial development has been proposed within the R.M. of Springfield for a section of land directly south of the Greater Winnipeg Water District Railway and Aqueduct.  

Some of the area residents have been present at two online Zoom meetings hosted by Waterside Development at which it has presented reports on ground water management, traffic studies and possible layout and usages for the park. 

South Transcona’s ‘path to nowhere’

As I explore the City of Winnipeg and its various walking or cycling paths, I find myself comparing them to the path closest to my home.It’s called the South Transcona community path and runs north of South Transcona from Borden Avenue to Terracon Place, close to the Dugald Road overpass. The condition of this path does not compare to that of any of the other paths I have been on and requires careful attention when walking or riding on it. There are multiple trip-and-fall hazards all along the way. I have nicknamed it the “forgotten path to nowhere.” In the past a sidewalk or path did not exist in this location and residents would enter Transcona either by walking or biking through the Transcona CN shops and the midway. The entry point was at the edge of a concrete parking lot west of the malt plant and the exit point was at Pandora Avenue and Bond Street. This right-of-way passage had been in place for over 80 years until the CN was sold.  At that point the company’s management, citing insurance reasons, tried to justify its closure by saying it was extremely dangerous for anyone to cross through it property.  A tall fence was erected, shutting off access.  With limited access to this neighborhood via transit or by vehicle it is nice to have the option of riding a bicycle or walking to the other side. The issue we are facing is that the South Transcona community path only heads west. Junior high or high school students heading east are restricted to riding dangerously on a sloped gravel shoulder alongside vehicles travelling 80 km/h, or they have to head west and add another 20 to 30 minutes to their travel time. I have made inquiries about whether the path will continue on to the east and have been told each time that it’s not going to happen. With the new neighborhood adjacent to Ravenhurst Street, a new bike/walking path has been laid and a controlled crossing will be installed at the tracks. But that is where the “path to nowhere” will end. No connection to South Transcona, no destination to anywhere but the ditch.   Val Cousineau of the Transcona Trails Association says community members have been advocating for a South Transcona trail extension to join at Ravenhurst but there have been no new updates.  In the past few years many new pieces of trail have been put in by developers. The Trails Association is very happy to see the developer has built the trail along Ravenhurst, which improves the cycle route connection to South Transcona. This new section of trail will be an extension of the Pandora Pathway.   So while all the neighborhoods around us, whether old or new, enjoy their beautifully landscaped paths, we will continue to use the only bumpy little path that joins us to the world on the other side. It’s dangerous but functional and we should just shut up and be thankful we don’t have to walk on the shoulder while getting sprayed with gravel or face death by being hit by a vehicle.  Hopefully our time will come. Soon. Louise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

As I explore the City of Winnipeg and its various walking or cycling paths, I find myself comparing them to the path closest to my home.

It’s called the South Transcona community path and runs north of South Transcona from Borden Avenue to Terracon Place, close to the Dugald Road overpass. The condition of this path does not compare to that of any of the other paths I have been on and requires careful attention when walking or riding on it. There are multiple trip-and-fall hazards all along the way. I have nicknamed it the “forgotten path to nowhere.” 

In the past a sidewalk or path did not exist in this location and residents would enter Transcona either by walking or biking through the Transcona CN shops and the midway. The entry point was at the edge of a concrete parking lot west of the malt plant and the exit point was at Pandora Avenue and Bond Street. 

Taking stock of modern life

As we move through our busy lives we may take for granted all the people and things around us.  

Not until we are faced with a major world event are we forced to step back and really look at what we have become and where we are in our lives. How have we been acting toward one another? Have we been paying attention to those who mean the most to us? Are we treating our friends with love and respect?  

I think we can all answer no to at least one of those.  

It seems our families are the first to suffer our selfish disregard. They are ignored or pushed aside because they are always there, in the same room but invisible. Technology has also taken over this world with fancy apps and quick methods of communication —  eye candy if you will — that often seem more addictive than the usual vices. It’s funny how people can’t see how they are behaving, oblivious to reality.  

Spring is just around the corner, honest…

Spring appears to be having an ongoing argument with winter like every second day.  One day she will be the strong one and just push her way past him. Spring brings all things good, such as birds, flowers, grass, gardens and happiness. This spring there will be an overabundance of happiness. I’m betting there will be more people than ever planting gardens and getting out there in their yards to give them extra special care. Although we are normally excited to visit all the fabulous greenhouses our city has to offer, a curveball in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic has been thrown but that doesn’t mean those businesses are not open for business.    A quick online search reveals over 20 greenhouses and nurseries within city limits or close proximity to the Perimeter Highway.  After trying to make a few calls, I was directed to websites, Facebook and Instagram for the greenhouse shopping experience. Most greenhouses are advertising online sales with the option of curbside pickup. Some may even deliver. (I am uncertain what the big box stores have to offer in this regard.)  The one thing missing from the greenhouse shopping experience will be the overall feeling of peace when you walk into one  Instant serenity sweeps over you and transforms the next 30 minutes  — no wait, make that 60 minutes — into the best calming experience ever. Not everyone feels the same when they visit these stores, especially kids. They don’t enjoy being dragged into these places of greenery without toys. There usually has to be a bribe of some sort.  (Note to self: don’t bring the kids again.)    Some high schools are currently running fundraising campaigns selling gardening supplies and seeds to help fund their 2021 school trips. Check with a school near you for more information, as now is the time to start planning which vegetables we would like to experiment with, which flowers we love to look at and how we can help our winter-beaten yards look new again.  We will soon have a chance to immerse ourselves in the world of gardening to help ease the stress of the world. Happy spring.  Louise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

Spring appears to be having an ongoing argument with winter like every second day. 

One day she will be the strong one and just push her way past him. Spring brings all things good, such as birds, flowers, grass, gardens and happiness. This spring there will be an overabundance of happiness. I’m betting there will be more people than ever planting gardens and getting out there in their yards to give them extra special care. Although we are normally excited to visit all the fabulous greenhouses our city has to offer, a curveball in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic has been thrown but that doesn’t mean those businesses are not open for business.    

A quick online search reveals over 20 greenhouses and nurseries within city limits or close proximity to the Perimeter Highway. After trying to make a few calls, I was directed to websites, Facebook and Instagram for the greenhouse shopping experience. Most greenhouses are advertising online sales with the option of curbside pickup. Some may even deliver. (I am uncertain what the big box stores have to offer in this regard.)  

Lighten up when watching kids play

I’ve spent many years sitting on cold, hard uncomfortable benches, bleachers and other forms of seating, proudly watching my kids learn and excel in the various sports they chose to participate in.  I’ve been proud, sad and worried — sometimes all within the same hour. In the end, it’s all been worth every minute. At times there has been disappointment in watching a team fall apart while trying its best but then you think “they are trying, they are having fun and will learn from their errors.”When people play games there is never a sure outcome. So many factors come into play. All kids play to the best of their abilities.  They all try their hardest — and everyone needs to remember that. Even the best athletes will make mistakes. The thing our kids absolutely don’t need is people yelling plays or shouting negativity at them from the stands or behind the glass.  They don’t need secret hand-signal plays, either. The absolute worst is when parents bang on the glass of a rink while completely freaking out on their child. Yes, this happens. I’ve seen it.  Not only does this totally make the parents look like fools, it embarrasses the kids and makes the whole team look bad. It makes you wonder how the children are being treated when they get into the vehicle to drive home or, worse, while they are at home. Is this considered bullying if parents are treating kids this way, or does that term  only apply when it happens in school ? Are we obligated to speak up or stay silent?  Parents have been evicted from rinks and fields by the officials for displaying such behaviour and some have had restraining orders filed against them. Hockey parents are required to complete the online Respect in Sport program. If this was mandatory for all sports, would it stop the behaviour completely? Likely not but it may be a deterrent for most. Officiating is never perfect, either. Referees and umpires are people; they make mistakes, sometimes a lot of mistakes but, whatever. These mistakes may make you really angry but yelling and freaking out will not change a thing. It will only get you kicked out or branded as “that parent.”  We’ve all been there. Officiating can and does affect the outcome of games but what can you do about it?So here’s a friendly reminder to all you spectators out there — remember, these are just kids, they are playing to have fun, make friends and improve their sporting ability.Some may go on to bigger and better things but most will not and they should be able to look back on their childhood sporting experiences with happiness.Louise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

I’ve spent many years sitting on cold, hard uncomfortable benches, bleachers and other forms of seating, proudly watching my kids learn and excel in the various sports they chose to participate in.  

I’ve been proud, sad and worried — sometimes all within the same hour. In the end, it’s all been worth every minute. At times there has been disappointment in watching a team fall apart while trying its best but then you think “they are trying, they are having fun and will learn from their errors.”

When people play games there is never a sure outcome. So many factors come into play. All kids play to the best of their abilities. They all try their hardest — and everyone needs to remember that. Even the best athletes will make mistakes. 

Best Western Premier a welcome addition

Situated at 900 Regent Ave. West, not far from the heart of Transcona sits an absolutely gorgeous new Best Western Premier hotel which opened in September of 2019.I recently had the pleasure of meeting with Steven James, the general manager, as I have been watching the construction since 2018 and wanted to take a look.  When you walk into the lobby, you will be in awe. The artwork throughout the hotel has a railway theme, with a mix of old and new, incorporating graffiti modern colour. And black-and-white photos.Sherwood Sharfe, who owns the hotel, was employed with CN Rail in his younger days and thought carrying the railway theme throughout would be a nice way to tie it to the community.  The sundry area of the lobby is set up to display a wide variety of items, with attention paid to providing local product whenever possible. There are a couple of children’s books authored by Elaine Sharfe, who is Sherwood’s wife. Other intriguing items are teddy bears created by artisans in Thailand using leftover carpet yarn. This project is called “Weaving a Better Life” and is just one of the sustainable initiatives with Interface Flooring Products. Sherwood’s Bistro Bar is a bright and spacious restaurant, with a full-wall fireplace adding a cozy touch.  The restaurant is open to the public from 5 to 11 p.m. There is a fully licensed bar with local brews. A large patio, equipped with fire tables sits adjacent to the restaurant and is also open from 5 to 11 p.m. —  a relaxing space to enjoy Transcona evenings with friends.  The Best Western Beer Boutique is situated in the northwest corner of the lot and features a growler bar, with designer craft, international and local beer.   Each of the hotel’s floors has a colour theme tied into the flooring and features room types to fit all needs.   There is a large pool, waterslide and hot tub area featuring a cloud ceiling which tones down the echo that usually comes with an indoor pool. There is also a large gym on site with professional-grade equipment and added extras not found in most hotels. The next phase for this location will be a small conference facility attached to the northeast side of the hotel, with a capacity ranging from 400 to 500 people. It will cater to corporate clients, trade shows, weddings, reunions and other events.  The Sharfe family has done a remarkable job with this hotel, using local companies whenever possible for everything inside and out.  James had nothing but praise for Sherwood, Elaine and their daughter, Heather Fenyes, and is thrilled to be working with them.  Fenyes is involved with the operation of the hotel, along with her many other endeavors to make the world a better place. For more information, visit bestwestern.comLouise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

Situated at 900 Regent Ave. West, not far from the heart of Transcona sits an absolutely gorgeous new Best Western Premier hotel which opened in September.

I recently had the pleasure of meeting with Steven James, the general manager, as I have been watching the construction since 2018 and wanted to take a look.  

When you walk into the lobby, you will be in awe. The artwork throughout the hotel has a railway theme, with a mix of old and new, incorporating graffiti modern colour. And black-and-white photos.

Be sure to exercise your right to vote

After coming away from last month’s provincial election and having to prepare to vote in the federal election on Oct. 21, many people may be confused or frustrated. But don’t worry, there are people in your districts to assist you with any questions, concerns or changes you may have. Whether you are registering to vote, figuring out where your poll is situated, what sort of identification is required or you have other questions, there are numerous places to get answers.  Elections Canada officials will be setting up a revision and information kiosk in the Elmwood-Transcona electoral district at Transcona Public Library (1 Transcona Blvd.) on Thurs., Oct. 10 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Agents will be present to assist in registering those who did not receive voting cards in the mail or have recently moved into the area. Just because you voted in the provincial election doesn’t necessarily mean you will receive a registration card for the federal election in the mail. If you haven’t received one, contact elections Canada at 1-800-463-6868.If you have access to a computer you can visit www.electionscanada.ca, where there is a trove of information about candidates on the ballet, job opportunities, polling station locations and much more. You can also check to see if you are registered to vote. Are you registered to vote?If you’re voting for the first time or recently moved recently, make sure your registration is up to date.For some, the act of voting can be quite an exciting experience, especially those turning 18 years of age and voting for the first time or those who are new citizens of Canada.There are numerous dates and ways to cast your vote. You can walk into any Elections Canada office between their posted hours and vote, or you can visit the advance polls listed on your voter ID card or the Elections Canada website, or you can wait until Oct. 21.  You will most likely run into friends or neighbours at the polls, which can give you a chance to catch up with them. So, young people, let’s get out there and start the new trend.  We live in a democratic country where all eligible citizens have the right to participate, either directly or indirectly, in making the decisions that affect them. Free, fair and inclusive elections, organized periodically by strong institutions and conducted in accordance with international standards, are essential for any functional democracy.Louise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

After coming away from last month’s provincial election and having to prepare to vote in the federal election on Oct. 21, many people may be confused or frustrated.

 But don’t worry, there are people in your districts to assist you with any questions, concerns or changes you may have. Whether you are registering to vote, figuring out where your poll is situated, what sort of identification is required or you have other questions, there are numerous places to get answers.  

Elections Canada officials will be setting up a revision and information kiosk in the Elmwood-Transcona electoral district at Transcona Public Library (1 Transcona Blvd.) on Thurs., Oct. 10 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Thoughts on aging and the passion of youth

When people are young they wish to be older. When they finally age, they regret what they wished for.  Realizing it’s too late and that time will never go backwards, we are constantly flung into the future, bracing ourselves for what it waiting for us. We spend the rest of our lives trying to do whatever we think will maintain our youth. Whether it’s taking care of our bodies or grooming ourselves to appear younger, wearing certain fashion items that are hip or portray the latest trends, we just keep trying.  What makes a human being act in this way?  It’s definitely a thing almost everyone does. Multiple factors in our lives contribute to the human aging process. Whether it’s genetics, geographic location, employment opportunities or our role in society, each small thing plays an integral part.  There are many research papers on the topic of aging, some of which are pretty scientific and can hurt the brain when reading. They offer endless things to think about as we continue on our journey to wherever it is we end up. I’m guessing there have already been breakthroughs that haven’t been made public and may never be.  The world can only sustain so many people and the possibility of extending life would cause undue strain.  Thankfully, the youth of today have become instantly aware of the damage that previous and current generations have caused and are beginning to take immediate action to reverse it.  I am proud to see they are watching, listening and acting to save their home planet. Although they are only young they are thinking like adults and have role models such as 16-year-old Greta Thunberg, who are not afraid to lead the way. So live life to the fullest, have fun and appreciate yourself at whatever age you are. Louise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

When people are young they wish to be older. When they finally age, they regret what they wished for.  

Realizing it’s too late and that time will never go backwards, we are constantly flung into the future, bracing ourselves for what it waiting for us. We spend the rest of our lives trying to do whatever we think will maintain our youth. 

Whether it’s taking care of our bodies or grooming ourselves to appear younger, wearing certain fashion items that are hip or portray the latest trends, we just keep trying.  

Celebrating all that Transcona is and was

Every once in a while I hear them. The crude comments and subtle remarks aimed at our little community. They evoke an anger that prompts a response, not necessarily at the time, but eventually in one way or another.  I am not sure if everyone feels the same about where they came from but I feel most have some sense of pride or feel a lifelong connection to their roots.So, let’s not forget which community won BOB FM’s Battle of the Neighbourhoods contest and trophy this spring. During the live radio celebration in Transcona Centennial Square, numerous local business owners came out to offer some of their products to the radio hosts who were overwhelmed by our little community and its uniqueness.  The town of Transcona came into existence in the early 1900s, when the Grand Trunk Pacific and National Transcontinental Railways decided to work together to build a second railway line across Canada.Transcona would become the heart of the two, joining the west and east coasts of Canada while providing a repair and maintenance shop.  When you think of it that way, Transcona was an integral location which enabled the Canadian National Railway to become what it is today. Those who settled in Transcona were the work crews who began the construction of the shops. As a result of this settlement, a board of trade was formed in 1911 and the town of Transcona was incorporated in 1912. It began with hard-working, blue-collar roots and has continued for over 111 years.  Such a community is something to be proud of. It has grown from a vast prairie field to a bustling community with approximately 42,000 people residing in it. The population continues to grow every day and these days Transcona is a diverse and multicultural community. Surrounded by the R.M. of Springfield on three sides, we just missed out on being an island. No, wait — you could say we used to be an island. To the west, the original connection to the City of Winnipeg was a long dirt road stretching past cold prairie fields. Because of its dark and remote location, the Starlite Drive-In Theatre was situated along a stretch of Pandora Avenue West. There are many great memories for all those who were lucky enough to frequent it. There are some days when I think it would be nice if we could go back to being a remote little town full of people who knew their neighbours’ names and who would always offer a friendly hello. But that’s not possible, so all our volunteers, community groups and business members will keep striving to make this community a great one and to educate all those who are unfamiliar with this great place so they can feel the love like we do. There are some great reads on the history of Transcona, its population and the various wards and what they are actually called on the following websites: • www.mhs.mb.ca/docs/mb_history/13/transconatour.shtml• www.transconamuseum.mb.ca/post/2017/11/16/communities-that-time-forgot-south-transcona• winnipeg.ca/Clerks/WardsBoundaries/pdfs/wardmaps/PopulationMaps/Transcona-population.pdfLouise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

Every once in a while I hear them. The crude comments and subtle remarks aimed at our little community. They evoke an anger that prompts a response, not necessarily at the time, but eventually in one way or another.  

I am not sure if everyone feels the same about where they came from but I feel most have some sense of pride or feel a lifelong connection to their roots.

So, let’s not forget which community won BOB FM’s Battle of the Neighbourhoods contest and trophy this spring. During the live radio celebration in Transcona Centennial Square, numerous local business owners came out to offer some of their products to the radio hosts who were overwhelmed by our little community and its uniqueness.  

The thrill of being a movie stuntman

Being in front of a camera isn’t always about the glamour. Sometimes it’s about the thrill, excitement and danger of doing something for a living where each day is never the same and you love every minute of it.  There are so many aspects of the movie industry that the general population would never fathom.  When we see the final results in the form of a movie, mini-series, video, documentary or short film, we usually don’t care to know how many hundreds of people are involved from start to finish in every aspect.  I spoke with B.J. Verot, a local filmmaker and stunt artist to learn more about the stunt portion of his career. B.J. began by enrolling in a stage combat course through the University of Winnipeg theatre and film department when he was 25 years old.  His instructor was Rick Skene, who made quite the impression, and B.J. was forever hooked. After completing the course, B.J. began to work with Skene Stunts, for whom he has since performed multiple stunts in a variety of genres. B.J. has been shot by Keanu Reeves in the movie Siberia, surfed down the hood of a vehicle moving up to 70 km/h per hour in Joy Ride 3, performed as a stunt double for Robert Englund (a.k.a. Freddy Krueger) in Midnight Man and was set on fire in the movie I Still See You.  The fire story intrigued me as being the most dangerous. In a nutshell. B.J. says the process boils down to preparation, trusting in your team,and staying calm in the moment. He stresses that the stunt community in Manitoba is tight-knit and safety is a top priority when working with stunt actors.  Working in the stunt industry has allowed B.J. to further pursue his interest in film making, writing and producing. He recently collaborated with Ken Janssens to co-write a feature film entitled The Return, a sci-fi horror film about a student returning to his family home where horrors from his childhood may not be as dead as he thought. The film is currently in post-production and is set to be released in mid-2019.B.J. won a 2018 ACTRA Manitoba award for outstanding performance by a male actor in a short, for his work alongside Sean Skene in the film, Fisher Cove, in which a fisherman and his dog hunt down a creature that does not belong in Falcon Lake. You can find out more about B.J. Looking him up at IMDB.com If you’re interested in pursuing a career in stunts, it’s generally advised you be 18 years of age; it’s helpful to have a background in sports such as gymnastics or judo, as they teach the art of soft landing and you may want to visit Skene Stunts online at skenestunts.comLouise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

Being in front of a camera isn’t always about the glamour. Sometimes it’s about the thrill, excitement and danger of doing something for a living where each day is never the same and you love every minute of it.  

There are so many aspects of the movie industry that the general population would never fathom. When we see the final results in the form of a movie, mini-series, video, documentary or short film, we usually don’t care to know how many hundreds of people are involved from start to finish in every aspect.  

I spoke with B.J. Verot, a local filmmaker and stunt artist to learn more about the stunt portion of his career. 

Live life to the fullest — every day

We will all experience death at some point in our lifetimes. It’s a fact of living. We dread the day but know it is coming. The experience of losing important people we have shared our lives with is not a good one.When it happens multiple times within a short period of time, it’s even worse. We try to shield our children from it for as long as possible but when the experience happens to them, your heart goes out even more because we never want to see them hurting. It makes a person think about how precious life really is and how short it can be for some.  We all start out the same but our destinies are all so different. Multiple factors come into play that will steer us to our final destinations. We all hope for a long and happy life full of children, friends and family.  Most people end up on the long road of life with great life stories to tell. Others are not so lucky. Even though they have great stories to tell, their lives end far too soon, with unfinished business to be taken care of.  When we lose those special peopl,e a part of us is lost with them. There will always be a lump in your throat or a throbbing in your heart when you think of them. You keep checking your phone, hoping they will continue that last text conversation you had, or a song comes on that reminds you of those crazy things you used to do together. Certain times of the year are meant for celebrating with family and friends to enjoy their company and to appreciate the things you have.  This holiday season, make an effort to really appreciate everything in your life — your partner, your children, your neighbours, your favorite co-workers, and all those friends you haven’t seen because we are all just too busy.Life can be short, let’s make the most of it. Louise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

We will all experience death at some point in our lifetimes. It’s a fact of living. We dread the day but know it is coming. The experience of losing important people we have shared our lives with is not a good one.

When it happens multiple times within a short period of time, it’s even worse. We try to shield our children from it for as long as possible but when the experience happens to them, your heart goes out even more because we never want to see them hurting. It makes a person think about how precious life really is and how short it can be for some.  

We all start out the same but our destinies are all so different. Multiple factors come into play that will steer us to our final destinations. We all hope for a long and happy life full of children, friends and family.  

The Painter’s Cafe is a creative haven

Tucked away in a small storefront at the northernmost end of Plessis Road, The Painter’s Cafe is a cool place to learn how to explore your creativity and/or to purchase fantastic treasures made by Michele and Angie Zubrin.  The sisters had a dream of making a living doing what made them happy and they have done just that. In June, 2017, they began establishing a beautiful store at 2089 Plessis Rd. full of reborn furniture, hand-painted rustic signs, home decor items and much more.  Angie uses her creativity to transform the look of almost anything to make it beautiful again. She’ll also create a custom sign or revive a piece of furniture on request. The signs have become quite popular with real estate representatives as gifts for clients. For her part, Michele will whip up multiple woodworking projects and The Painter’s Cafe offers a variety of weeknight classes. You can learn the techniques of working with chalk paint, wax and brushes to create your own masterpieces.  They also offer team-building sessions and even do teen birthday parties. Every Thursday evening,a sign workshop comes to life, offering people an opportunity to paint custom signs with more than 100 different stencils to choose from. Angie’s paint of choice is a Canadian product called Fat Paint which eliminates the need to strip sand or prime anything. There are 56 colorus to choose from and it can be purchased at the store. A Tuesday night course is offered to help people learn how to use the product, as it is not the same as using regular paint (a 10 per cent discount is offered on completion of the class). To enroll in any of the classes you must register at least one week in advance to allow preparation time. Milk classes will be a new addition in the new year. With the holiday season approaching, they are stocking up on unique gift items and will have stocking stuffer gifts under $45 and an assortment of packaged gifts at $25.  Enjoy a gourmet hot chocolate or coffee while you browse the store. Find out more by checking out the website at www.thepainterscafe.com, look for them on Facebook, or find them on Instagram: @thepainterscafeLouise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

Tucked away in a small storefront at the northernmost end of Plessis Road, The Painter’s Cafe is a cool place to learn how to explore your creativity and/or to purchase fantastic treasures made by Michele and Angie Zubrin.  

The sisters had a dream of making a living doing what made them happy and they have done just that. In June, 2017, they began establishing a beautiful store at 2089 Plessis Rd. full of reborn furniture, hand-painted rustic signs, home decor items and much more.  

Angie uses her creativity to transform the look of almost anything to make it beautiful again. She’ll also create a custom sign or revive a piece of furniture on request. The signs have become quite popular with real estate representatives as gifts for clients. 

The passing of a Transcona institution

As time goes on it’s inevitable that the old will fade away to make way for the new.When you live in a community for your entire life, you notice those things when they happen. Another long-time business in Transcona will soon be closing its big doors — but thankfully not forever.  Henry’s Car Wash has been a special place in our community, where people went to clean their vehicles, purchase fuel and groceries and, most importantly, stay connected. Whether we realized it or not, it was a social hub.  Ed Enns, who purchased it as an opportunity for his son, was the original owner of the car wash. Henry Enns quit his job at Winnipeg Electric to purchase the business in 1965. At the time, it was an automatic car wash with a couple of self-serve bays. Over the years, it changed over to all self-serve bays and added propane and diesel fuel pumps. The business operated as a Gulf station until 1985, when Petro Canada acquired Gulf Canada Ltd.Henry, along with his wife Erna and their seven children, grew the business into one the residents of Transcona will fondly remember. This family arrangement allowed some of the children to work alongside their parents, as well as some local CN guys and many Transcona students who worked at the service station on a part-time basis.  The most important person in the operation was Henry. He was always there with a big smile on his face and was welcoming and friendly to everyone. He would visit with the patrons, admire their vehicles, ask how their days were and share a few laughs. He genuinely cared about his customers and always wanted them to feel good.  He loved when kids would come in and always had suckers waiting for them. Elderly Transcona residents and friends would drop by just to visit and often helped Henry out with his day-to-day duties.  An example of Henry’s caring demeanour is the story of a family whose vehicle broke down just before Christmas; Henry would not leave until the vehicle was repaired and he knew they could all get home for Christmas. The family was overwhelmingly grateful to him.  Although the Enns family sold the service station over 16 years ago, the memories will remain for all of us who knew Henry and helped to support the business for over 60 years.  Now the building is scheduled to be demolished to make way for a new car wash, gas station and Tim Hortons restaurant.  While Henry’s Car Wash will be gone, it will not be forgotten. The new building will bring a fresh start to the location and allow future generations to make new memories. Thanks for brightening our days, Henry and family.  Louise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

As time goes on it’s inevitable that the old will fade away to make way for the new.

When you live in a community for your entire life, you notice those things when they happen. Another long-time business in Transcona will soon be closing its big doors — but thankfully not forever.  Henry’s Car Wash has been a special place in our community, where people went to clean their vehicles, purchase fuel and groceries and, most importantly, stay connected. Whether we realized it or not, it was a social hub.  

Ed Enns, who purchased it as an opportunity for his son, was the original owner of the car wash. Henry Enns quit his job at Winnipeg Electric to purchase the business in 1965. At the time, it was an automatic car wash with a couple of self-serve bays. Over the years, it changed over to all self-serve bays and added propane and diesel fuel pumps. The business operated as a Gulf station until 1985, when Petro Canada acquired Gulf Canada Ltd.

If it seems too good to be true, it is

There seems to be more and more situations of people being taken advantage of these days. I am referring to hard-earned money being swindled right out of people’s pockets and bank accounts.  Fraud is a word that has become all too familiar to many of us. A fine example is those trustworthy people who call you introducing themselves as officers of the Canada Revenue Agency, telling you that if you don’t pay your outstanding balance from a previous reassessment they will come to your house and arrest you. First, they don’t even bother to ask or try to confirm your name — and they just happen to know you owe them money? The person who called me certainly didn’t like it when I decided to play along like I actually thought the call was real. It ended in a pretty funny exchange. He said “Well, we are coming there to arrest you then.”I said “Go ahead,” and then said “I’m reporting you to the police.” I haven’t been called back but I did go online and make a report to the RCMP.  Within our circle of family, friends and business associates everyone has a story to tell. Some people have even lost money.The more people talk about this, the better educated we will be. Seniors are especially vulnerable to these scams because they are just so trustworthy. So be aware when you receive a phone call telling you your credit card interest rate is eligible to be lowered, for example. Chances are you are being played. There are also multiple email scams — messages asking you to click on a link for one thing or another. They actually look like they are sent from a bank but these, too, are scams. Online dating sites are another avenue for fraud. People pretend they are interested in you, chat for a few months and then ask for cash to help them in an emergency. Thieves are always coming up with new tricks. There are multiple websites you can visit to learn all about the old and newest scams out there and how to protect yourself.  There are also online tools to report scammers. Education is the key, so spread the word. Here are a few of those sites:• www.winnipeg.ca/police/TakeAction/frauds_scams.stm• www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/Oca-bc.nsf/eng/h_ca02228.html• www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/eic/site/cb-bc.nsf/eng/04334.html• www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/scams-fraudes/index-eng.htmLouise Hedman is a community correspondent for Transcona. 

There seems to be more and more situations of people being taken advantage of these days.I am referring to hard-earned money being swindled right out of people’s pockets and bank accounts.  

Fraud is a word that has become all too familiar to many of us. A fine example is those trustworthy people who call you introducing themselves as officers of the Canada Revenue Agency, telling you that if you don’t pay your outstanding balance from a previous reassessment they will come to your house and arrest you. 

First, they don’t even bother to ask or try to confirm your name — and they just happen to know you owe them money? The person who called me certainly didn’t like it when I decided to play along like I actually thought the call was real. It ended in a pretty funny exchange. 

An ode to the Humboldt Broncos

They form the circle of love, united with one name.

The silence is deafening, the pain cuts right to the heart. The tears are streaming down all the faces, falling like drops of rain, recycling into the jerseys worn to support. 

How will they go on, how will we help them heal?

Things will never be the same again. Thoughts of the next trip are on everyone’s mind, the worry, the anguish — will they ever be able to heal? 

Winnipeg Gold wins silver at Winter Games

The Manitoba Winter Games took place in Thompson from March 4 to 10 and ringette was a part of the Games first phase, which ran from March 4 to 7.

There were six U14 teams in this tournament: Team North, Team South, Team East, Team West, which represented those areas of the province outside Winnipeg, while the city was divided into Winnipeg Gold and Winnipeg Blue.

Winnipeg Gold was made up of girls from five different teams: Southdale A (three players), East End A (nine), Southdale B (one), Dakota B (two), and River East C (three).

While at the games, the team won an award for “Keeping it Fun” and all three of their three coaches were nominated for “Thanks Coach” awards. They also contributed heavily to the Winnipeg Gold regional team winning the J.A. Ernst Spirit of the Games award.

Remember when life seemed simpler?

Those of us who have lived through the advancements of technology and continue to experience them on a daily basis, sometimes question whether they are actually of benefit to us or whether cause more work and more stress. 

On any given day, I am often thinking the latter. Sometimes I think I preferred older forms of technology.

An example of good, old school technology was the corded phone on the wall that some people still have because they know it’s safe and reliable.

When I was young, there were always family squabbles over who was on it the longest or who was using it as a weapon in a sibling dispute.

Dreaming of my next winter break…

As we live our lives rushing through the daily grind with the ultimate goal of not having to work to earn a living, our dreams are what continue to push us to get there. 

Each one of us has a slightly different version of the dream — to pay off the mortgage on the house or cottage, to buy a boat or to travel to warm and exotic places.

As we age, the dream gets closer which forces us to really think about what is most important to us in our final chapter.

Where do we want to live? How much money will be need? Do we have someone to share it with or will we go it alone?

The secret gem

As you wiz by at 70 kilometres an hour, there is little time to take notice of the surroundings. 

You may notice the large towering building to the north or the small auto sales business to the south, but never think twice about what’s beyond that. Most people don’t really take the time to see what’s around them, but they really should because the greatest little community called South Transcona is just sitting there waiting to be discovered.  

When people find out about it for the first time it’s always the same reaction. They say, “I never even knew this place existed,” or “I always wondered what this place was,” or “What is this place?”

They are the same thoughts I had when I was young and my best friend and I decided to venture out past our comfort zone to make new discoveries. We rode our bikes from “the other side” and were in awe of our discovery. It was like another city right in our backyard.  

Keeping memories alive in Transcona

Peter Martin is the son of Paul Martin, a well-known Transcona resident (and former mayor) who was recognized in 2005 as The Greatest Transconian.

Paul Martin was a D-Day veteran who landed on the beaches of Normandy during the first wave of the landing. He lost many comrades that day and upon his return to Canada after the war, he made it his mission to ensure that young people would to remember and acknowledge the sacrifices of veterans, especially those who lost their lives.

Paul Martin spoke at most Transcona schools for over 30 years. After he died last year, his son spoke to students as Remembrance Day approached.

Last Nov. 7, Peter brought Transcona students to Transcona Cemetery so they could learn where some of the veterans from Transcona have been laid to rest, read the grave markers and place poppies on the graves. The event was part of a project called No Stone Left Alone, which began at Edmonton’s Beechmount Cemetery in 2011.

Only love will bring us together

I’m pretty sure most families have some sort of issue or another; I have yet to hear about one that doesn’t.

Sometimes such issues are major and can cause those who should love, listen and support each other to distance themselves from those they spent years growing and laughing with. 

Even minor issues can cause dysfunction for a lifetime. But the one thing that can bring a family all together, even just for a day, is love.

I’m talking about a family wedding, one that can be few and far between for some families and a very common event for others. These days, there are many couples who feel their relationship is just fine the way it is, so there is no need for wedding vows. Then there are those who feel it’s an absolute must to make that commitment.

Local filmmaker full of drive and energy

Winnipeg may be situated in the middle of this country and not known by many but our stars sure shine brightly.

We can produce some very talented people, from musicians to actors to filmmakers and more.

I recently had the opportunity to meet with B.J. Verot, a local filmmaker/director/writer and stunt actor. He’s a very talented young man who is teeming with ambition and imagination. 

B.J. lived in Transcona until recently and says he misses the hustle and bustle of the little place at the east end of our city. He said he actually shot some of his first film work at the Transcona Nationals football field. Pretty cool. 

The ups and downs of Ultimate Frisbee

Ultimate Frisbee is a sport that was started in 1968 by a group of students at Columbia High School in Maplewood, N.J. 

It is played by two teams with a flying disc or Frisbee on a field with end zones similar to football. The object of the game is to score by catching a pass in the opponent’s end zone. Players must stop running while in possession of the disc, but may pivot and pass to any of the other receivers on the field.

No physical contact is allowed and disputes are worked out between the players themselves. The responsibility for fair play is placed on players rather than referees.

Ultimate is played in more than 80 countries by an estimated seven million men and women, girls and boys. There are 10 simple rules the players must follow while playing and the sport is very laid back and fun.

Are you ready for Trans + FORM?

Transcona has many unique qualities that you won’t find elsewhere in the City of Winnipeg. Long-time residents are strongly devoted to the area and tell anyone who will listen how great it is.  

In short time, we hope that the people new to the area will also feel the same. We all try to promote our great little community in any way we can, while trying to protect it from outside negativity. We try to offer a variety of events that embrace our sense of pride.

Although there are numerous fun things going on at any given time, here is one that should bring out the artist in everyone:

On Sept. 29, 30 and Oct. 1, Transcona BIZ will present Trans + FORM Transcona to commemorate Canada’s 150th anniversary.

Prairie voles are natural artists

Spring brings all that is fresh and green and new. It also brings things that occur every year just because they correlate with nature.

I am talking about minor alterations to our lawns, trees and other plant life. These alterations are caused by wildlife that does not hibernate during the winter, perfectly happy to just scamper about, hop it up, tunnel around or rub all parts of their bodies or teeth on live things while we are all hunkered down in our warm houses.

They’re out there having a ball eating up all the good stuff we spent all our money on, so our places would look good to the neighbours.

I am, of course, referring to deer, rabbits, mice, birds and those poor little things that are currently getting a bad rap — voles. 

Exam season is upon us – are you ready?

It’s that time of year again, when all high schools and some middle schools start talking about those dreaded exams.

Now there’s a word that causes some kids to go crazy and start whining and worrying. Even though they’re doing just fine and passing all subjects with fairly good marks, they begin to realize what stress feels like. They worry they will fail, that their marks will plummet to zero or they think they will have to stay in Grades 7 or 11 forever.

Some junior high schools in our division require Grade 7 and Grade 8 students to write exams. Their marks count toward a portion of their final grade and they are told the process helps prepare them for high school exams. 

Personally, I think that policy is a great thing, even though the kids don’t agree. It teaches them how to find a way of studying that best suited for them, how to work in a study group and how to actually go back and read their textbooks.

If you could stop time, would you?

If we had the ability to stop our life clocks at any given time, when would you choose to stop yours? 

Would it be when you were young and were having the time of your life, or when you have had your family and thought you had accomplished all you set out to do?

My daughter asked me how I would feel if time just stopped right now and we had to live forever at the age we were currently at. My immediate response was that I would prefer it to be when I was younger, like 30 maybe. 

The more I thought about it, the more times I came up with. Such as when I was in my 20s and having a great time with friends, doing all the cool stuff young people do without a care in the world. Or when I realized I had a job that I really enjoyed and I could actually help people while doing it. Or the moment I knew I had fallen in love and never wanted those feelings to end.

Transcona’s special, secret place

There is a special place in the heart of Transcona that many of us are aware of and use often.

It’s the best place to take your vehicle for almost any issue it may have. If there is something the guys there can’t address, they are happy to refer you to the next most-qualified person.

I’m not going to name the business as it already has stacks of work orders that cover its entire counter, and there’s more than a two-week wait to get in. But I thought it would be a great story to share that also offers a unique business lesson.

When you walk in, there may or may not be a smiling guy behind the counter. If he is there, you can engage in a friendly conversation while trying to book an appointment. If he isn’t, just walk to the back where you will find him, amongst one or two friends enjoying a coffee and chatting. At any given time, there will be a friend, a customer or a retired community member popping in to visit while bringing some sort of food or drink.

A much-anticipated space to play

For many years, St. Joseph the Worker School, at 505 Brewster St., had a large limestone play area at its rear.

This space was considered the only larger outdoor play area for kids who attended the school and the neighbourhood kids who hung out after hours. It was also known to cause injury — and pretty much every child who attended St. Joseph the Worker School prior to June , 2016 has a scar or two to prove it.  

In 2013, the school parents’ advisory council’s playground committee committed to doing something about the playground  They began many fundraising initiatives and pursued various grant opportunities with hopes of changing the space. Finally, after a lot of hard work, five different funders came together to award over $120,000 to bring the project to life.    

The choice was made to install a continuous, pour-in rubber product and the chosen contractor was Prairie Safety Surfacing.

1st Transcona Scouts are 65 years strong

The 1st Transcona Scouts organization has survived for 65 years because of extremely dedicated volunteers who didn’t give up.  

The word “historic” is defined as something that has existed in the past, is considered to a part of history and has great or lasting importance.  

I think the 1st Transcona Scouts organization fits the definition to a tee. In 1951. the Scouts group committee, chaired by Ed Golding, and their family and friends built the first scout hut at 110 Winona Street.  

A fire in 1958 destroyed the entire building and the new chair, Albert Adair, led the group committee, building chairman J.B. Neil, the women’s auxiliary, employees of CNR and the townspeople of Transcona, in building a bigger and better scout hut which officially opened in May of 1959 with a celebratory ceremony.

Meet the Dragon Boxers: Our team, our passion

What drives a person to do something?

Passion, love or money. Those are just a few of the reasons I can think of for the members of the Dragon Boxers dragon boat races team (well, except for the money part). The team began its life as a corporate team from Agricore United way back in 2003.

There are only four original members left — Kathleen, Cindy, Jeannine and Murray. All the others have been recruited by Kathleen from blood, marriage or friendship. Our team is strong that way but work on its muscle-strength each year. We came in one second behind the “young thing” boat last year, and we were pushing to see them in our wake at this year’s Manitoba Dragon Boat Festival in support of the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.  

There are 20 rowers in the boat, a drummer and a steer-person along with three alternates (cheerleaders) so we can either rest or go on vacation when training during the summer.

Searching for an elusive train

I have always been curious to know where the small train that crosses Symington Road has come from and what its destination is.  

I have never been stopped at any of the crossings but I finally managed to grab a picture of the elusive train whose whistle I hear about once per month.

The Greater Winnipeg Water District Railway is a 168-kilometre stretch of track that runs from 598 Plinguet St. in St. Boniface to the aqueduct in Shoal Lake, Ont. Construction began on the line in 1914 and its purpose was to construct the main source of drinking water for the City of Winnipeg. The entire project was completed in 1919 at a final cost of $17 million dollars, which would be over $226 million in 2016 dollars.

That seems like a lot of cash to have spent in those days but the aqueduct has been noted among one of the world’s greatest engineering works. There is a 90 metre drop in the rail line/aqueduct from Ontario to Manitoba.     

Does anyone remember Uncle Ben’s beer?

The small white building with the broken window and peeling paint is still standing on Regent Avenue.  

I drive by it daily and think about when it used to be a bustling business where beer drinkers from Transcona would go to buy a case of unique Uncle Ben’s Malt Liquor.

Uncle Ben, a.k.a. Ben Ginter, was born in  Poland in 1923 and raised on a farm near Swan River, Man. When he was 13 years old he left home to become a labourer and worked in Ontario, Alberta in Manitoba. In 1945, he started his own heavy equipment construction company and began working across Western Canada.  

In 1949 he moved to Prince George, B.C. with his wife Grace and in 1962, he purchased the Caribou Brewing Company so he could use the yard for equipment storage, changing the name to Tartyn Industry Ltd.  

Ah yes, it’s road trip time again

Most people have experienced a road trip or two and survived.

They start out as someone’s great idea and create a feeling of great enthusiasm for among those who agree. For those who aren’t quite so keen, it causes stress and anxiety but those people must be constantly reminded that it is just one of things you are required to do for the people you love.

The packing starts weeks in advance and even though we think we are good to go, we will always forget something.

When the day comes, it usually starts out far too early which causes those who really hate getting up before the sun to become super-crabby and this often sets the tone for the start of the journey. As the day goes on, some will nap and wake up in better moods, while those who cannot sleep in a moving or motorized vehicle will not.  

A birdwatcher’s winter wonderland

About a month ago I looked out the front window and saw some very large, strange, bird-like creatures gathered under the spruce tree. 

I called the family to take a look and asked what they thought they could be.

“Sharp-tailed grouse”was the first answer followed by “I don’t know” and “uh.” A few weeks later they returned and this time I managed to grab some pictures and research what they really were. Gray partridge was the correct answer. These birds were introduced here from Eurasia and can be found in flat agricultural land along the entire length of the Canada–USA border. 

They are a small, chunky, chicken-like bird, measuring approximately 13 inches, greyish-brown in colour with grey bills. Both male and female have reddish bars and pale streaks crosshatched along their sides, along with chestnut outer tail feathers.

The lows (and highs) of being a sports parent

I am seriously considering opening a retreat exclusively for sports parents.

It would be a special place to get away for a day, a weekend or a week from the stress associated with being a sports parent.

It would be an environment from which certain words and topics would be banned and use of the following terms will warrant immediate expulsion: A; AA; and AAA; tryouts; acceptance letters; ‘I’m so sorry’ letters; tournaments; 50/50; “I need another cheque;” fundraising; Grey Cup tickets; team hoodies; playoffs; medals; girl drama; snow storm; GPS; injuries.Of course, the most despised word of all at this retreat would be “driving.”

I’m not saying that being a sports parent is a bad thing.

Reading the old-fashioned way

If you are reading this article right now, it’s obvious you still like to read newspapers, whether they are online or in print. 

Newspapers provide us with daily or weekly updates on things going on around us locally and internationally. Some articles can be quite vague while others are very detailed and informative. The various sections of a newspaper cater to all interest groups.  Some will show their political affiliations through the writings of their staff and cause people to choose other publications.

Reading the newspaper daily can be a form of relaxation but it can also be frustrating, depending on the stories you are reading. 

How people choose to read has been a big topic in this technological age and the debate over whether printed books will survive rages on.  

Such a long time for such a short road

As per your requests, here is the latest news on the beloved Plessis Road underpass project. 

The orange barricades first appeared in July 2013, blocking a major route for eight uneventful months.  Construction crews finally showed up and have been hard at it for the past year and a half and there is a final date in sight.

On Oct. 31, 2015, there will be two lanes will to be open to traffic from Dugald Road through to Kernaghan Avenue.

The City of Winnipeg provided me with the following information:

The race is on… now who’s running?

It’s election time again, a time when all the parties and their candidates put on their best faces trying to convince people that they are the right choice to bring all that is good to our little world. 

Some people follow what’s going on daily. Some people only become knowledgeable when they are faced with a situation in which they have to, while others simply don’t want to bothered.

There is a sign posted on Nairn Avenue that sums up exactly how the homeowner feels. “All politicians stay out,” it says.

Election signs are already posted here and there; some yards have a single sign while others will have multiple. Other homeowners will not bother due to differences of opinion between spouses or the desire to keep the decision personal. It can be a touchy subject to discuss in public so it’s best to feel people out first — or just never talk politics. 

Surviving your child’s teenage years

When you love someone more than life itself, it really hurts when those dreaded words finally come out of her mouth. 

“I hate you.” 

It had happened once before, when she was around three, but I chalked that up trying to get a reaction to a word that I had told her was not nice to say. 

This time she’s 14, and she knows exactly what she is saying and the hurt it can inflict.

Transcona reacted well to litter news

It was all over the news, written in all the papers — Transcona was rated the worst of all.  The most litter in the city was seen within our boundaries. 

So all the nasty people came out to play and called us all kinds of names. I hope it made them feel better about themselves. 

After reading the fine print on exactly which streets were the worst, it appeared to me they were all the main thoroughfares, which are travelled by people from all over the city on a daily basis. Litter could have fallen from the garbage trucks or various commercial contractors’ vehicles as they head to the dump. 

There are many businesses whose packaging materials like to escape and go for a tumble across fields and ditches. And then there are those inexplicable people who throw out their cigarette butts, candy wrappers, fast food bags, coffee cups, etc.

Running a household really is work

Has anyone ever asked you where you work? 

My response to that question has morphed over the years from “I’m a stay at home mom”, to “I do many things and don’t receive financial compensation for any of it.” 

That’s when the asker usually looks at me, pauses, and then finds an excuse to walk away.  On a recent trip to the U.S.A., the border officer asked me what I do for a living.  Without hesitation I said “I am a domestic engineer.” 

I was slightly worried, but we looked at each other and broke out in laughter. He gave back my passport and said, “That’s a good one.”

A Canada Winter Games experience

Spencer Lambert is a 14-year-old Transcona resident who recently participated in the Canada Winter Games in Prince George, B.C.

He took the time to talk to The Herald about himself, his sport and his Games experience:

Herald: How did the opportunity come about for you to be able to participate on the wheelchair basketball team representing Manitoba in the Canada Winter games 2015?Spencer: Approximately two years ago I participated in camps organized by Manitoba Wheelchair Sports Association, introducing me to various wheelchair sports; basketball being one of them. A year ago MWSA then decided to organize a team for the Canada Winter Games. They informed us that they were looking for players from the age of 14 to 24. This team was not only for players with disabilities but also able-bodied players. MWSA told us how the games are like Canada’s Olympics and we would be part of Team Manitoba. This interested me very much and I joined the wheelchair basketball team.

Herald: How did you feel when you were asked to go? Were you scared or nervous about participating?Spencer: At first I thought it was kind of cool. I hadn’t heard about the Canada Games until we were told about this opportunity. I soon realized how big of a deal it was for young up and coming athletes. As the year of practising and preparing passed, my excitement grew.

Showing love for the summer season

Everyone looks forward to summer, especially the kids.  

On the final day of school they are so looking forward to two whole months of freedom. Some parents also look forward to some downtime from the hustle and bustle of schedules, especially making lunches, the one chore that is universally disliked.  

Bring on the hot lunch days every day, please. Once they start high school, they can make their own lunch, purchase from the cafeteria or walk down the street to Subway.  

My youngest child is already counting down the days until school starts. I keep telling her that she better start doing something real good, then. No more wasting the days away sleeping until 11 and watching TV in the dark basement with her sister until midnight.  

How do you think you come across?

Have you ever looked in the mirror and said to yourself “I look good?”

Then, not long after, someone takes a picture of you and you think “That’s not me; no way do I look like that, what the heck happened to my eyebrows?”It happens to me all the time. I view myself differently than I appear to others, which has come to light repeatedly with photographic evidence and video.

According to those who live with me and dare to hang out near me, I don’t dance well, even though I think I dance great. I can clear a room or a vehicle as soon as a Tragically Hip tune comes on. I don’t sing well, either, which is why I am often told to stop singing or people are often seen putting in ear buds. I will admit they are correct on that one.

Sometimes I think I am walking or running really fast when in fact I’m not; I often hear “Hurry up!”

How did plastic flamingoes land here?

I have often wondered why Transcona is associated with the pink flamingo and where it all began.  

My quest for knowledge began with Peter Martin, Jr. because his family has lived in Transcona since 1907 and he just knows a lot of things. Peter referred me to Alanna Horejda, curator at the Transcona Museum and she was happy to share all the info she had. I did have to do some work to come up with the remaining info.   

Real flamingoes are speculated to have been on this earth for at least seven million years, which is way longer than Transcona has been around. There are four different species and some of the birds can grow up to five feet tall.  

The direct correlation to Transcona is that they are a social bird and like to hang out in groups of 50 into the thousands, with many subgroups being formed. When they are not with the group, they are eating or making themselves look good.   

It’s spring at last… it’s spring at last…

We all made it through that horrible thing. I won’t even say the word.

I finally have hope and happy days ahead to look forward to. When I first saw a piece of grass, I smiled and felt great. It was short-lived, mind you, but that feeling is back again. When all the snow melts it’s like a treasure hunt as all kinds of  things are revealed that we’d lost track of —  gloves, plastic cups and bottles, GT snow racers, toboggans, shovels, rabbit poop, dog poop, cardboard, hoses and nozzles, socks, tin foil trays, pizza boxes, plant pots with dead plants in them, the list goes on...

Our ‘pet’ squirrel is having a great time running all over the top of the snow gathering things he must have forgotten about. He has also been doing some weird little hand and body actions I’ve never noticed before. Our real pet rabbit, Joey, is so happy to get outside he even stayed out on the deck all night last night and had a great time. I think he is a night rabbit.  

I noticed that CAA was asking people to vote on its website for the worst roads in Winnipeg. It may have helped to get them on a short list for repair.

How is the Plessis underpass going?

The headline to this column is the question I’m being asked almost weekly.  

I’ll start with daily observations, such as the small potholes left behind from underground work that has now been completed and the 30-foot pile of soil sitting beside smaller piles of soil and limestone. But I haven’t seen the stop sign guy, any trucks, machinery or contractors for quite some time.    

I spoke to Jim Feeny, director of public and government affairs for CN in Montreal, and asked him about CN’s financial contribution to the project and the delay in negotiations.  

CN’s position is that it would like its contribution to be based on what the City of Winnipeg’s cost will be and not the total project cost. This issue has now gone to arbitration.

Transcona teen is Paralympics ambassador

Transcona teenager Spencer Lambert has been asked to travel to Sochi, Russia, as a parasports ambassador for the Canadian Paralympic Committee.

At just 13, Spencer, who was born with spina bifida, has made positive impressions on all the organizations he is involved with.

The Shriners Hospital for Children in Montreal was so impressed with Spencer’s positive attitude and bravery after a nine-hour surgery last year that he was recommended to the Air Canada Foundation as a candidate for the VIP tour of the 2014 Paralympic Games.

Spencer’s father, Richard, will travel with him to Sochi. They left March 2 on a trip that includes stops in Montreal, Frankfurt, Moscow and finally Sochi on March 6.

A little appreciation goes a long way

Have you been appreciated lately? If the answer is no, then I don’t think you’re alone. I don’t know if it’s just me or does it seem as if people are taking others for granted far too often?

If there is an appreciation class in elementary school, the kids just aren’t getting it.  

Showing someone that you’re thankful to for something they have done for you or others doesn’t cost anything. It doesn’t have to be huge; it can be small little gesture that shows that you appreciate them. A thank-you, a hug, a kiss, a cup of coffee or even a flower from the yard will do. It will create that warm, happy feeling.  

A small gesture of thank has more benefits than you could imagine. In the workplace, it can make an employee feel as though they are valued and that their work is actually being noticed. Showing appreciation can boost productivity and morale.