Trail Talking

The PC Government has begun further consultations where you can have your say on a number of budget-related issues preceding the formation of the 2018 Manitoba government budget. On Sept. 28, I had the opportunity to host a Town Hall Meeting at the Howden Community Centre.

Our constituency will have one more opportunity to meet together for a second Town Hall Meeting in the town of Ste. Anne. Please join me and Minister Kelvin Goertzen on Thurs., Oct. 26 at the Club Jovial in Ste. Anne, from 8:00 – 9:00 p.m. Topics of these meetings will focus on the Manitoba budget, introducing the legalization of marijuana, and building a sustainable health system.

Other than budget considerations, many fall events have filled my schedule this month. The Farm to School program had its Fall Fundraiser Kick Off on Sept. 22 with a Veggie Day Celebration. I was reminded of how plentiful our farm harvests are here in Manitoba. Along with celebrating veggies, I celebrate our hardworking farmers this season. I had the privilege of dropping off some veggies at a few local foodbanks, and that is also your thing, this is a great time of year to share our wealth with those in need.

On Sept. 30, I attended the St. Adolphe Neighbour Day in Cartier Park. In October, events included the Let’s Get Pumped Social in support of Diabetes Canada as well as the Take Your MLA to Work day organized by enVision Community Living where I was also invited to visit Normandeau Sheet Metal to spend some time with one of their employees.

On Sept. 29, I had the honour of presenting certificates of recognition at a Volunteer Appreciation event for the RM of Ritchot. I was very pleased to thank volunteers of all sorts, and especially the firehalls and their members in St. Adolphe, Ile des Chenes, and Ste. Agathe.

Volunteering is about looking at a place that needs help, and working towards finding a solution as a team. It is centred around the idea that if people get together, they can make a huge difference.

I want to give a word of an encouragement to foster the idea of community volunteerism. Keep on giving back to those around you, in whatever way you can.

Lastly, we will also be hosting another round of “Coffees with Bob”. Dawson Trail constituents should watch for details to be released soon on my social media and website announcing when I will be available in your area for coffee and discussion. The first one will be on Fri., Oct. 27 at Capo di Grande in Ile des Chenes, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. Drop on by!