View From the Legislature

Many years ago, I overheard an elected official from the area who was on the phone with a reporter from Toronto. The Toronto based reporter, before the interview officially began, was trying to get a sense of where Steinbach was in Manitoba. Knowing only where Winnipeg was, the Toronto reporter asked how far Steinbach was from Winnipeg. The elected official said dryly, “People in Winnipeg would likely say 50 years.”

Much has changed in Steinbach since I overheard that exchange. The decades old debate over the sale of liquor is long past, the city has grown to become the third largest in the province and Steinbach is truly one of the most multicultural communities in Manitoba. And yet, the traditional values that people who are familiar with Steinbach likely associate it with, still show themselves in things such as generosity, as the community is still recognized annually as one of the most giving in the nation.

But for those who have not visited Steinbach in many years, their perception may differ greatly from the reality. I hear this often from people who visit the city and express things such as “I had no idea how much it had grown” or “I was surprised how diverse the community is.”

These reflections are important because this year Steinbach is celebrating its 150th birthday. It has been 150 years since the original 18 families who came to settle what they would call Steinbach, established their homes, and set the community on the course it is today. While much of this history is well preserved and available to experience at the Mennonite Heritage Village Museum, it is perhaps not always reflected on in our day to day lives.

And there is not much that would be familiar in the community, other than the evident commitment to faith and generosity that still exists, to those early settlers. And yet, the success of Steinbach is very much built upon those original residents and their willingness to work hard and to welcome others to the community and region.

So as the City of Steinbach looks to mark its 150th birthday through an enhanced Summer in the City street festival and Canada Day festivities, there is much to celebrate.

The City of Steinbach continues to be an excellent place to live and to raise a family. It is seen as a desirable place to come for so many people both in Canada and around the world. The economy remains strong in the region and new businesses continue to open, offering both retail options but also employment.

Many in the community are also eagerly anticipating the completion of the Southeast Event Centre which will allow large events to be held in the community as well as provide an excellent facility for concerts, trade shows and hockey. The Bethesda Hospital expansion is also proceeding well and when completed will provide additional bed space and a new long-anticipated surgical centre. Along with a new elementary school and other infrastructure developments the 150th year of Steinbach is not only special but sets in on a strong footing for the future.

The well-known Steinbach slogan “It’s Worth the Trip” is more than for just car sales. It is also true for those who have come from around the world to call Steinbach home or those who are just visiting for the day. On its 150th birthday, Steinbach has much to be proud of and much to look forward to. From humble beginnings, much has been accomplished.