Discover Lac du Bonnet Magazine 2016

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Discover Lac du Bonnet 2016 edition Discover Lac du Bonnet is an annual general interest magazine profiling people and events that make the Lac du Bonnet region a great place to visit. It is published by: InDemand Media Solutions Box 1679 Lac du Bonnet, MB R0E 1A0 Ph: 204‑340‑6575 Publisher, editor, writer, layout, sales, distribution Marc Zienkiewicz [email protected] Ad and cover design Sandra Grouette, Grouette Studio grouettestudio.com [email protected] Additonal cover photos Michelle Wazny, Manitoba Hydro, Manitoba Music Hall of Fame, Larry Nadolsky, Malak Karsh (courtesy Donna Besel), Gloryland Promotions Additional writing Gerald Sarapu, Kathy Picard, Gerry Arbez No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions that may occur. The publisher will not be responsible for injury, loss, or damages resulting from readersʹ The 2016 Canada Day fireworks in Lac du Bonnet take place participation in any event or activity featured in this publication. Friday, July 1. See p. 10 for info.   $  '  #     &     %

Editorʹs Note PAST and present. Itʹs an important concept for all of us. Our histories define us and shape us into who we are. Itʹs also the theme of this yearʹs issue of Discover Lac du Bonnet. As we put together this yearʹs edition, we realized that one thing most of the stories had in common was their connection to the past. Not some forgotten past that no one remembers, but a vivid history that is still very much alive and influencing the people who live in and enjoy visiting the Lac du Bonnet Photo courtesy Lac du Bonnet District Museum region. Brightstone residents head to the Lac du Bonnet Canada Day celebrations, We profile two musical legends — Ray circa 1920. St. Germain and The Guess Whoʹs Donnie McDougall — who spoke to us about their fascinating musical histories and their We also offer a history of Manitoba Hydroʹs power plants along the Winnipeg connections to the region. River. Cottager Paul Phaneuf and his family Thatʹs not all. Thereʹs a lot more to discover in these pages, so enjoy and let us have been enjoying the area since the know what you think! You can find us at facebook.com/discoverldb and 1990s, and were kind enough to invite us discoverldb.com. to their annual family rib‑cooking Thanks for reading. competition. It was great to hear about their family tradition and what it means Marc Zienkiewicz to them. Editor   $  '  #     &     %        %

livinglegend #* A $ <   . :6 * 2 7
; 1 2 ; < 8 :A ?2 < 1  * ; < . :7  * 7 2 < 8 + * + . 0 * 7 2 7 < 1 .     ; ?1 . 7 1 . < 8 = :. - ?2 < 1 < 1 . 0 :. * <  . 7 7 A  :. * =   * , - =  8 7 7 . < ?* ; 8 7 . 8 / < 1 . 2 : ; < 8 9 ; RAY St. Germain is a household name in Manitoba. Born in Winnipeg in 1940, he started his career in the 1950s as an Elvis impersonator travelling to small towns alongside performers Harold Breau (stage name Hal Lone Pine), Betty Cody and their young son Lenny Breau, who would go on to become a jazz legend and influenced such greats as Randy Bachman. The group was known as the Hal Lone Pine Band. Lac du Bonnet was one of their stops back in those days, when St. Germain was just a teenager trying to find his way in show business. ʺThey travelled around and played lots of small towns. I got to travel to every little town with them. We opened up for a lot of big acts like Hank Snow and Johnny Cash. That was my start,ʺ he says. Known for such classic songs as ʺSheʹs a Squareʺ and ʺDynamite Womanʺ, he currently hosts a weekly radio show on NCI‑FM called The Métis Hour x2. His music has taken him around the world to places like Germany, Israel, Cyprus, and across Canada. But fate still has him making his way back to the Lac du Bonnet area every few years. In 2007 and 2008 he performed for sold‑out crowds in Pinawa, and in 2015 he entertained crowds as one of the opening acts at the Fire & Country legend Ray St. Germain performs at the 2015 Fire & Water Music Water Music Festival, where he performed Festival in Lac du Bonnet.    $  '  #     &     %

alongside his son D.J., Sierra Noble and Kimberly Dawn. ʺI do still travel a bit, but not as much as I used to,ʺ says the 75‑year‑old. But he still loves playing for small town audiences, who he says are great to play for and give he and his band a warm reception. ʺTheyʹll always let you know how youʹre doing as a performer. If they like you they clap and cheer, if not they just donʹt say anything,ʺ he says with a laugh. ʺThat said, thereʹs still some towns you go to and people say, ʹRay who? Never heard of him.ʹʺ The large crowd that showed up to the Fire & Water Music Festival in 2015 to see him perform had certainly heard of him. Lac du Bonnetʹs Carol Nilsson saw St. Germain perform in town back when he was travelling with the Hal Lone Pine Band. She still had some pictures taken at the event all those years ago, which she gave to him. ʺIʹll always treasure those photos,ʺ he told the crowd. Beausejourʹs Shayla Zielke, 26, is a huge fan of St. Germainʹs, and got to meet him in person before his show at the festival. ʺIʹve been listening to him since the first Métis Hour he did,ʺ Zielke said. Her favourite St. Germain song is ʺYouʹll Know That Itʹs Meʺ from his 2007 album Show Me The Way To Jerusalem. If thereʹs one regret St. Germain has, itʹs never having a smash‑hit single, he adds. ʺIʹve recorded, but Iʹve never had that million‑seller. Iʹve sold a lot of records, but never that big one where everyone can identify it and know itʹs me.ʺ Humble words coming from one of Manitobaʹs most famous performers. In 2010 he was inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, joining such greats as Ian Tyson and Gordon Lightfoot. Heʹs added author to his repertoire with his autobiography I Wanted To Be Elvis, So What Was I Doing In Moose Jaw? He released his latest album Life Ainʹt Hard in 2008. He says it will likely be his last. ʺPeople ask me if I will record again and I just say, ʹSorry, I canʹt.ʹ What if it was a hit and I had to travel?ʺ he laughs. Pictured at left: Ray St. Germain started his career in the 1950s, travelling to small towns with the Hal Lone Pine Photo courtesy Manitoba Music Museum Band. Lac du Bonnet was one of their stops in those days.        %

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5 5 . 7 3 8 A * 7 - ?* 7 < < 8 , 8 6 . + * , 4 < 8 Yvonne Rideout is executive director of Snowmobilers of Manitoba (Snoman), which supports our regionʹs numerous member clubs to develop and maintain the safe and environmentally responsible snowmobile trails weʹre known for. Discover Lac du Bonnet recently caught up with her to ask about her experience snowmobiling in the region and how Snoman is making a difference. Discover Lac du Bonnet: What do you like about snowmobiling in Eastern Manitoba? Yvonne Rideout: While the entire province has very scenic trails, I like the diversity in Eastern Manitoba and since I live in Winnipeg itʹs accessible without a long commute to a staging area. The 15 clubs in Eastern Manitoba hold a variety of events and it certainly builds camaraderie when one participates with club members at a warm‑up shelter and/or Yvonne Rideout is executive director of Snowmobilers of on the trails. Manitoba (Snoman). Discover Lac du Bonnet: How long have you been a fan of snowmobiling, and why did you decide to take up the hobby? YR: I started snowmobiling at the age of 13 with our familyʹs first snowmobile. In the area where I grew up there werenʹt any groomed trails, so we would ride on frozen water or snowmobile‑rutted trails. I was in my early 20s when I first rode on groomed trails, and then we jump ahead to trail riding in Manitoba. I enjoy it because it is one of the few outside recreational activities that I participate in, as Iʹm not a skier or snowboarder. Getting outside and seeing parts of this province only visible by snowmobile is fantastic. Discover Lac du Bonnet: Snowmobilers are so important to our local economy in the winter. How do you illustrate this for people who might not be aware of how important the sport is to rural communities? YR: During 2015, there were over 50,750 new snowmobiles purchased in Canada, a 4.1 per cent increase. Many businesses rely on the snowmobile industry to help sustain their services throughout the winter. The industry has an economic benefit of more than $300 million per year in Manitoba alone. Weʹve had business owners say that if it wasnʹt for snowmobilers they could not keep their doors open during winter — a low‑tourism season. From refuelling, restaurants, accommodations, etc. there are many stops that we make.   $  '  #     &     %

; 7 8 ?6 8 + 2 5 2 7 0 Discover Lac du Bonnet: What are your top tips for a successful and safe snowmobile outing? New App Provides Quick Views of Regionʹs Trails YR: Ride with a friend — one is a lonely number. Let someone know where you are travelling and when to expect Snowmobilers of Manitoba announces the release of a you back. Know the risks, be prepared and make every trip a free RiderX app which includes Snoman‑designated round trip. Always check local ice conditions, cross roadways trails. The app is available through the Apple App with care, slow down at night and in snow dust, take Store and Google Play. The program is also available snowmobile safety training, and last — but certainly not least on the web at RiderX.com. It is essential while you are — snowmobiling and alcohol donʹt mix. Donʹt drink and ride. out tracking rides. Discover Lac du Bonnet: Why is Snoman such an important ʺThis is a great step for Snoman as our riders have organization for Manitoba? been asking when an app would be available,ʺ says YR: Snoman is the umbrella organization for our 52 clubs and Snoman President Alan Butler. ʺWeʹve worked with 12,000 kilometres of trail system throughout the province. RiderX to integrate our snowmobile trails into the Our club volunteers are responsible for maintenance, signing, app.ʺ grooming of the trails and also for the 154 warmup shelters. We encourage the younger generation to get involved with With this app, you won’t have to guess because you’ll the clubs and volunteer because, as with every industry, our always have a map available. RiderX utilizes your volunteer base is getting older. Our organization is dedicated smartphoneʹs GPS just like any other GPS mapping to providing strong leadership and support to our member app would. It allows you to download maps to work clubs to develop and maintain safe snowmobile trails to offline as well. You basically plan your route and then further the enjoyment of organized recreational download your ride to your device. The app allows snowmobiling. you to add waypoints and even tie a photo to a For info on Snoman and to access the websites of our regionʹs waypoint. snowmobile clubs, visit snoman.mb.ca.        %

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;  * 7 * - *  * A ?. . 4. 7 - + * ; 1  = 5 A AFTER the last two years of bad weekend weather, them. organizers of the 2016 Lac du Bonnet Canada Day weekend Itʹs an unfortunate reality of putting on such a stellar fireworks are hoping Mother Nature will be kinder. fireworks display, but organizers hope theyʹll have good This yearʹs fireworks fall on July 1 this year, and for the weather and a full crowd on July 1 this year. first time in the history of the Lac du Bonnet festivities, the Organizers hope that because theyʹre going to be held on fireworks will take place on a Friday. They normally take Canada Day itself this year, theyʹll create some extra place on Saturday night, with a rain date of Sunday. excitement around the event. With a rain date of Saturday, the The 2014 fireworks had to be postponed to the August chances are good that theyʹll go ahead as planned, barring any long weekend due to stormy skies and high winds. Last yearʹs interference from the weather. had to be postponed a day due to rain, and took place on the ʺNormally cottagers are just coming out to the lake on Sunday rain date. Not an ideal scenario, as most cottagers had Friday, so we hope theyʹll make the trip to town for the to head back to the city and couldnʹt make it to the fantastic fireworks,ʺ says Roland Simard of the Lac du Bonnet Lions light show. Club, which organizes the event. That, of course, meant a decline in donations. The As usual, Wonder Shows will be in town with rides for the fireworks are funded entirely through donations, and the kids, and much‑loved events like the Miss Minnewawa fewer people able to attend, the less money comes in to fund pageant and parade will take place once again.     $  '  #     &     %

86. *<,1 <1. ,. 2;1270 =0  * , - =  8 7 7 . <  , .  2 ; 1 2 7 0  . :+ A 8 //. :; . >. :A8 7 . * /* 2 : ; 1 8 < * < ?2 7 7 2 7 0 ; 8 6 . < 1 2 7 0 AN honest mistake led to some very happy people at the 2016 Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby. After a calculation error led to the wrong people winning some of the big cash prizes, derby organizers opted to hand out a second set of prizes, making a whole other set of anglers very pleased. It was yet another example of why the annual event — which marked 10 years in 2016 — has become so popular with Manitobans. Itʹs a homegrown event that supports the community and ensures everyone who takes part gets a fair shot. The derby is based on a hidden length and time, so even a tiny fish can be the big winner. But you donʹt have to catch a fish at all to be eligible to win the other 44 prizes, which include goodies like ice augers, electric smokers and more. Over 150 volunteers are involved in putting on this event with over 240 hours of their time. Planning for the event starts in September and ends in June, and derby proceeds go back to the Lac du Bonnet community. Over 1,000 holes are drilled by the areaʹs high school students, and payment for their time is directed to their graduation fund. The Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby offers you a chance to The next derby will be held March 4, 2017. Stay tuned to win one of many prizes, but youʹre guaranteed to go home discoverldb.com for details! with a smile on your face no matter what.   $  '  #     &     %        %

Ribs  Relatives  Fun  8 < < * 0 . :; + :2 7 0 /* 6 2 5 A * 7 - /:2 . 7 - ; < 8 0 . < 1 . : ?2 < 1 * 7 7 = * 5 :2 +  0 :2 5 5 2 7 0 , 8 6 9 . < 2 < 2 8 7 QUALITY lake time with family and great food has been a recipe for success for the Phaneuf family since 2009. Paul Phaneuf, his brother Marc and nephew Patrick Huberdeau all have cottages in the Lac du Bonnet area. Seven years ago, they cooked up the idea to hold the first annual Phaneuf Rib‑off. ʺIt gets harder and harder to get the family together, everyoneʹs so busy,ʺ Paul says. ʺSince we all like ribs, it made sense to have an annual event where we could all get together and make some and have a little competition.ʺ About 50 people gathered at Paulʹs riverfront cottage along Riverland Road July 11, 2015 to take part in the seventh annual rib‑cooking competition thatʹs become a family tradition. ʺItʹs growing and has become really popular,ʺ says Paul, who takes turns with Marc and Patrick hosting the event. Ron Desrosiers and Debra Acton tend to their ribs at the Paul and his wife, Sherry, bought their cottage in 1999. Phaneuf Rib‑off July 11. ʺWe all love Lac du Bonnet. I canʹt think of a better place to have it,ʺ Paul says. ʺSummers are fantastic here. You really ʺIt was a three‑hour ride to get here from my son‑in‑lawʹs leave the pressures of the city life behind.ʺ cottage by houseboat,ʺ Desrosiers says. ʺWe brought our ribs The concept of the Phaneuf Rib‑off is simple — family and and weʹve been coming ever since.ʺ friends gather to decide whose ribs are the tastiest. Ten He can attest to how competitive the rib‑off can get. contestants took part this year, gathering around 10 barbecues ʺIt gets borderline bloodthirsty. The competitors all want and duking it out to see whose ribs would reign supreme. to win.ʺ Everyone supplies their own ribs and pays a small fee to As a result, the ribs are all so good it can be hard to enter, which helps fund the T‑shirts and other small prizes determine a winner, he says. Thatʹs why heʹs proud to be the given out to the winners. Judging is done by a panel made up only person whoʹs won who was judged by a professional rib‑ of friends and family, with prizes handed out for first, second taster. and third place. ʺThe way I look at it, theyʹre all rookies and Iʹm the ʺThereʹs a lot of bragging rights at stake – it can get champ,ʺ Desrosiers says with a chuckle. competitive. They watch each other cook, how theyʹre cooking His secret recipe? Braising ribs in beer and Clamato juice, their ribs,ʺ Paul says. and then finishing them off with barbecue sauce. One year, the family even had a professional rib judge ʺYou want the meat to come off the bone easily, but you come out to give the verdict. That was the year Sandy Hookʹs donʹt want it to fall right off. Itʹs an art.ʺ Ron Desrosiers won the competition. Heʹs won twice now in Participants are allowed to use either charcoal or gas seven years. Huberdeau is his son‑in‑law. barbecues, but there is one hard‑and‑fast rule. Ribs must be     $  '  #     &     %

Paul and Sherry Phaneuf in front of their cottage along the Winnipeg River near Lac du Bonnet. made on‑site from scratch, not prepared beforehand. One presented with the coveted pig trophy given out each year. Itʹs year, a participant got the idea to smuggle in pre‑made ribs the second time heʹs won. from a gourmet grocery store and claim them as his own. After the winners are selected, dinner begins. Other than ʺAs the night wore on and the beer flowed, the truth came ribs, a variety of side dishes are served. This year, the family out. We suspended that person – they werenʹt allowed to — some came from as far away as the West Coast — invited a compete the next year,ʺ Paul says with a laugh. ʺItʹs all in few people to cook brisket as well, although the brisket wasnʹt good fun.ʺ part of the competition. A beer tent is also set up with a Recipes vary, ranging from elaborate ones that take lots of variety of international beers for participants to enjoy and pair planning to simpler ones thrown together more quickly. with their ribs. Paulʹs son Colin and his godson, Frank Phaneuf, teamed ʺWeʹve all become experts in cooking ribs. I enjoy up at the last minute to compete. barbecuing and I find itʹs like having the family in a kitchen ʺWe hit the Internet and found a recipe by Bobby Flay,ʺ together — everyone congregates around the barbecues and Frank says, referring to the celebrity chef whoʹs hosted several they can all participate,ʺ Paul says. Food Network TV programs. ʺBut I think weʹre a little out of ʺEveryone has other places to go to, but one weekend a our league.ʺ year, the Phaneuf Rib‑off is the one place they all come.ʺ Alas, the underdog duo didnʹt win. That honour went to —Previously published in The Cottager magazine Stephane Gosselin, the husband of Paulʹs niece. Gosselin was   $  '  #     &     %        %

/2 ; 1 2 7 0 %:8=< !87- //.:; =7 /8: 2-; *7- -=5<; 524. 7 0 5 . :; * :. * 6 * B . - + A < 1 . ; 9 . , < * , = 5 * : + :8 ?7  :* 2 7 + 8 ? * 7 - < 2 0 . : < :8 = < /2 ; 1 2 7 0 * 7 A8 7 . , * 7 . 7 3 8 A * < < 1 . (2 5 - 5 2 /. ; ; 8 , 2 * < 2 8 7 ! 8 7 - ; The Lac du Bonnet Wildlife Association stocked trout ponds — located along Hwy. 11 just north of the PR 313 junction — is a favourite fishing destination in the area. Itʹs stocked with several types of trout that promise fun fishing for the whole family, all year round. The ponds are maintained by the Lac du Bonnet Wildlife Association club. President Gerry Arbez tells us all about it. A few years back, the Lac du Bonnet Wildlife Association was looking for a conservation project that would involve improving some wildlife habitat in the Lac du Bonnet area. We also wanted to do something special for the 40th anniversary of the club in 2015. The pond kept on coming up as an area with great potential, although vastly under‑utilized at the time. Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship had been stocking rainbow trout there for years, but very few people were aware of that. Access to the shoreline to actually fish was nearly impossible because of the heavy cattail growth that surrounded the pond and it badly lacked basic amenities. The stocked trout perished every winter because of lack of oxygen. A business plan was put in place, numerous grants applied for, lots of help received from local contractors and truckers and with hundreds of hours of volunteer help, the project was started in late fall 2014 and substantially completed throughout 2015. The parking lot was doubled in size, three angling pods were built along the shoreline, and a 1.2‑kilometre nature walking trail was built around the main pond and winds its way to the back of the 75‑acre property to Blueberry Rock Road and the Trans Canada Trail. Lastly, an aeration system The pond is stocked with several types of trout that promise was installed to ensure a healthy fish stock in the main pond. fun fishing for the whole family, all year round.    $  '  #     &     %

/2 ; 1 2 7 0 Today, anglers are amazed by the spectacular brown, rainbow and tiger trout fishing anyone can enjoy at the Wildlife Association Ponds. Numerous Master Angler trout were caught and released last summer already. Several anglers have reported landing more than one of the giants per outing. Ice fishing has proven to be very popular as the pond is conveniently located close to the town of Lac du Bonnet. Anglers come from all surrounding communities, including Winnipeg. For the last two years, the Grades 5 and 6 students from Centennial School have been invited to attend the spring stocking at the ponds. All students participate by releasing nets full of fingerlings and even Master Angler‑sized fish. This past spring, the students actually released 1,500 fingerlings and 40 Master Angler brown trout. The association attempts to involve youth as much as possible in our projects. Children spend so much time now with computers, smartphones and various other devices. Children are the future of everything, including angling, hunting, conservation and habitat — the cornerstones of our organization. Plans for the Wildlife Association Ponds in 2016 call for the installation of 12 nature trail interpretive signs, including a large trail head kiosk‑type sign. An interpretive brochure has also been produced to facilitate self‑guided walking tours of the trail. In cooperation with the RM of Lac du Bonnet, a much‑needed vaulted washroom will also be installed at the site after spring thaw. Lastly, a grand opening is being planned for the summer of 2016. Check out our website at ldbwildlifeassociation.com for Grant Lacey with one of the trout he caught ice fishing updates! at the Wildlife Associations Ponds in 2016.   $  '  #     &     %        %

A popular roadside restaurant is being revived, thanks in part to a young child with big dreams. ʺIʹve always wanted my own restaurant for years, but with a husband, three children and a farm, it was super‑hectic, so it always got put on the back burner,ʺ says Cynthia Lachance, the owner of Cynthiaʹs Roadside Café at the junction of Hwy. 12 and PR 317. ʺOne day we were asking the kids what they wanted to be when they grew up, and my daughter looked me right in the eye and said, ʹI want to own my own restaurant.ʹ She was four when she told me that. Sheʹs 11 now and her answer remains the same.ʺ Cynthia Lachance is the owner of Cynthiaʹs Roadside Café The family lives close to the café, which was formerly at the junction of Hwy. 12 and PR 317. Robynʹs Drive‑In, and every time time they drove by, they couldnʹt help wondering if their dream might one day come Milner Ridge, Pine Falls and Lac du Bonnet area. true. ʺOur goal is to make it a nice happy experience for all who ʺOne day we drove by and saw the for‑sale sign, and the stop in. We also want to make a designated area for dogs. Iʹm rest is history. It was one of the best decisions of my life. I love looking forward to seeing what the future holds.ʺ food, cooking and people, so itʹs the best job ever,ʺ Lachance The restaurant can be reached at 204‑265‑3456. says. The restaurant, which sits along the Brokenhead River, has what she calls a ʺcomfort foodʺ menu, featuring homemade soups, sandwiches, wraps, and daily specials. A few favourites are the club sandwich, Reuben, quesadillas and the perogies, homemade french fries, bacon cheeseburgers, and poutine. Lachance has some big plans for the business other than honing her menu options, she says. ʺThere are a few renovations I want to do. I want to make the outside more pleasant for people to eat — I would love to make a little walkway to the river and have a few picnic tables so people can eat by the water,ʺ she says. ʺI also want to make my dining room bigger and more cozy so people can feel at home.ʺ Itʹs a family‑run business, with her parents, niece, brother and a close family friend helping run it. Customers will see pictures of them all on the wall upon entering. Seasonal residents and snowmobilers play a huge part of her success, she says. During the winter months, a large sign saying ʺsnowmobilers welcomeʺ sits outside the café. ʺI want to add on so I can put some shelves and coat hangers up so the snowmobilers have somewhere to put their stuff. We already have the trail coming right to the door, which is a great start. When summer comes we want to make the parking lot bigger for all the campers, boats and trailers and heavy trucks,ʺ Lachance adds. Originally from Garson, Lachance belongs to the Mooswa Lake Snoriders, who groom 140 kilometres of trails in the   $  '  #     &     %

+ :2 - 0 . = 9 - * < . (8:4 87 $4277A :2-0. .027; WORK to repair the PR 313 Winnipeg River bridge has started. Known as Lac du Bonnetʹs ʺskinny bridgeʺ, construction crews have kicked off Phase 1 of its reconstruction, having awarded a contract to PCL Constructors for pier repair work. Detailed design for the new deck and girders continues by Buckland and Taylor, a bridge engineering firm. The province has met with a local harbour committee and continues to have dialogue on options for raising the bridge; the committee is hoping it can be raised to accommodate higher watercraft like houseboats. The bridge is currently restricted to one lane of traffic on The bridge is currently restricted to one lane of traffic on the south side due to the structural condition of components the south side due to the structural condition of on the north side. Traffic signals are in operation at both ends components on the north side. to control traffic movement. The bridge has been restricted to one lane since 2013 when feet to 28 feet), a wider pedestrian walkway, and brand new a corroded girder was discovered underneath it. structure supporting the new deck. The roadways at each end Work is planned this summer to widen the shoulders of of the bridge will also be modified to improve the approach to PR 211, the highway that leads to Pinawa, to allow wider the bridge. loads, such as agricultural equipment, to use this provincial As specified during the consultation process, the bridge road as an alternate route if desired. will remain open as it is now (one lane controlled with When complete, the new skinny bridge will feature a signals) for the entire construction period, with the exception wider bridge deck than the existing one (increased from 20 of a brief closure period in the winter.   $  '  #     &     %        %

Photo by Stephen Johnson John Barnard on the set of Menorca with Tammy Gillis (left) and Sheila Campbell. man of the movies  * , - =  8 7 7 . <
;  8 1 7  * :7 * :- 2 ; * + 8 = < < 8 :. 5 . * ; . 1 2 ; /2 :; < /. * < = :. /2 5 6 FROM being a student at Lac du Bonnetʹs high school, to Barnardʹs eclectic work as a director runs the gamut between filming a modern‑day Houdini in rural China, to making a the Comedy Networkʹs hit series House Party and the Hugo feature film on a Spanish island known for its historic stone award‑winning Lost Bones: In Search of Sitting Bullʹs Grave. He monuments, John Barnard has been around. is the creator and show‑running director of the TV series The The owner of Winnipegʹs Farpoint Films — a media Medicine Line and his feature‑length documentary The production company known for producing the popular TV Sheepdogs Have At It follows the Saskatoon band after winning shows Escape or Die! and the award‑winning The Illegal Eater a place on cover of Rolling Stone magazine. — is set to launch his new feature film later this year. But he says it was the OLN reality series Escape or Die! — Menorca is a drama about a hedonistic soccer mom who which follows Manitoba escape artist Dean Gunnarson embarks on a strange journey of self‑discovery and seeks to around the globe as he takes on the biggest and most reconnect with her estranged son by returning his pet rock dangerous escapes of his life — that helped him make back to the island of Menorca, Spain. Menorca a reality. Many scenes in the film were shot on Swerving gently between drama and documentary, location in Spain.   $  '  #     &     %

ʺIʹve been a director for years and have wanted to make a feature film since I was a student in Lac du Bonnet 20 years ago,ʺ says Barnard, 38. ʺWith shows like Escape or Die! Iʹve become a bit of an expert on travelling productions, and that really came in handy with this project.ʺ Going to high school in Lac du Bonnet helped Barnard make his dream of working in TV and movie production a reality, though learning to make movies wasnʹt so easy as a high school student in the 1990s, he says. Although Lac du Bonnet Senior School has a media production course today, no such thing existed when Barnard was a teen. ʺBack then there really werenʹt many resources available for people like me who wanted to make films. It was really left up to people to figure it out for themselves. Luckily my teachers provided me opportunities to produce some stuff as school projects, even though I didnʹt know what I was doing at all.ʺ Photo by Stephen Johnson Despite being based in Winnipeg and finding himself Swerving gently between drama and documentary, travelling the world a lot more these days, Barnardʹs film‑ Barnard’s eclectic work as a director runs the gamut. making has a way of bringing him home. A large chunk of Menorca was also shot in the Eastern Manitoba region along films and TV shows, and it all started in Lac du Bonnet with Hwy. 59, at a cottage in Traverse Bay and at a roadside motel the help of my friends, who were equally clueless about it,ʺ he near Victoria Beach. says with a laugh. Barnard also directed episodes for the Manitoba Moments ʺItʹs an enormously competitive industry and like many historical TV series. One was about the British explorer Peter industries itʹs completely been changed by the Internet.ʺ Fidler, who had a long career with the Hudsonʹs Bay For more info on Barnard and his upcoming feature film, Company in the 18th and 19th centuries. Portions were shot visit farpointfilms.com or follow him on Twitter along the Winnipeg River. @directorjohnny. ʺIʹve been so lucky to have all those experiences making   $  '  #     &     %        %

*<=:.
; 8=7<A /8 8 -  2 - A8 = 47 8 ? % * ; < A . - 2 + 5 . - . 5 2 0 1 < ; 0 :8 ? :2 0 1 < 2 7 A8 = : + * , 4 A* :- WHEN Bestselling Manitoba author Laura Reeves finds herself in this neck of the woods (she lives in Gardenton, located in southwest Manitoba near Vita), sheʹs usually teaching a class on wild edibles, of which there are many here. The author of Laura Reevesʹ Guide to Useful Plants (which recently made it onto the McNally Robinson bestseller list) specializes in wild edible plants, and through her business Prairie Shore Botanicals, is helping Manitobans reconnect with the foragers in us all. Photo by Cindy Balkwill With a background in botany, Reeves can walk through a Laura Reeves is the author of Laura Reevesʹ Guide to Useful forest and know what plants are edible, and what they have Plants. to offer in terms of medicinal and/or nutritional value. She has over 20 years experience. Prairie Shore Botanicals is dedicated to increasing public knowledge of, and respect for, the beauty, diversity and usefulness of wild plants through specialized skills classes, presentations, consulting services, and sustainably harvested products. ʺPeople have been using these wild plants for thousands of years, and itʹs great to have the knowledge to know what can be used,ʺ she says. Eastern Manitoba is teeming with edible plants, but itʹs important to know what youʹre picking. For instance, Reeves notes, ʺThere are a lot of plants that look like wild mint, but wild mint has a very distinctive strong peppermint smell.ʺ If it doesnʹt smell like peppermint, itʹs not wild mint. Other plants and mushrooms can be easy to mistake with poisonous lookalikes, so always err on the side of caution and donʹt eat something if youʹre not absolutely sure what it is. The list of edible wild plants goes on and on. Curious about the wild plants on your property? Reeves does home consultations to help homeowners familiarize themselves with what grows in their yard. Catch her infectious enthusiasm as she explains plant uses, harvesting and preparation techniques, and how to become a caretaker of your land so these plants can survive and thrive for your mutual benefit. Pick up Laura Reevesʹ Guide to Useful Plants by visiting psbotanicals.com/lauras‑guide/.     $  '  #     &     %

/8 8 -  8 8 -  * < ; 2 7 )8 = :  * , 4 )* :- So what can be picked in the Lac du Bonnet region? Where to start? CATTAIL: Cattail is probably the most useful, common, and commonly overlooked wild plant, according to Reeves. Almost every part can be eaten, including the rootstalks, leaf buds, shoots, flower heads and pollen. They can be used to make flour, rope, and a lot more. CHOKECHERRY: These are common and easily recognized by the reddish‑black berries that hang from the branches of shrubs or small trees. Reeves recommends using them to make juice by simmering for 20 minutes and straining through a colander to remove the seeds. Can be used to make jelly, smoothies and mead. DANDELION: Perhaps one of the most common weeds around. Roots can be used to make powder, which can be Photos courtesy Laura Reeves used in pancakes, breads and muffins. The roots can be Clockwise from top left: Dandelion, chokecherries, mint, roasted and used to make a coffee‑like beverage. Leaves can cranberries. be eaten fresh and made into a salad. distinctive, but subtle. Can be used in any recipes HIGHBUSH CRANBERRY: This tall shrub has leaves blueberries would be used. Use in muffins, pancakes, that, at first glance, resemble maple leaves. The thin‑ smoothies and jam. skinned, juicy red berries hang in clusters and contain a MINT: Has square stems with opposite leaves, which single seed. Make excellent jelly and wine. are toothed and end in a sharp point. Look for wild mint in SASKATOON BERRY: Look for shrubs with rounded, low‑lying areas of poplar stands and along marsh edges toothed leaves. White flowers are found in small clusters and beaver dams. The scent is unmistakable. Use to make and have narrow, well‑spaced petals. Their scent is tea, or in cooking.   $  '  #     &     %        %

Photo courtesy Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission The Canadian Nuclear Laboratories site near Pinawa is scheduled to be completely decommissioned in nine years. a prime opportunity (2 < 1 * 7 . ? . , 8 6 8 7 2 , - . >. 5 8 9 6 . 7 < ; < :* < . 0 A 2 7 9 5 * , .  ! 2 7 * ?* 2 ; 5 8 8 42 7 0 < 8 * < < :* , < 6 * 3 8 : 2 7 - = ; < :A < 8 2 < ; ; 1 8 :. ; BIG things are coming to the Lac du Bonnet and Pinawa region. Six municipalities have created a new economic development strategy designed to attract a major industry to the site where the Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) site is located near the town of Pinawa. Itʹs scheduled to be completely decommissioned in nine years. ʺIn economic development terms, nine years is a heartbeat,ʺ says Pinawa Mayor Blair Skinner. The town of Pinawa was built in the 1950s in conjunction with the nuclear research site, which was originally constructed by Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) in 1963. The decommissioning process has been ongoing for years, but with a final date of 2024, the six municipalities came together to promote the site as a prime one for industry, in an effort to attract jobs and ensure a healthy future for the region. Around 350 jobs will be lost when the site is fully decommissioned, according to Skinner. ʺItʹs a huge site, and more than half of it has never had any kind of nuclear presence, so it could be developed for other uses quite readily,ʺ the mayor says. ʺPinawa is a safe, secure community. Itʹs in a beautiful location and the people here are   $  '  #     &     %

Photo courtesy Canadian Nuclear Laboratories Over the past two decades, Pinawa has marketed itself as a prime location for business, and especially young professionals. awesome.ʺ help of the town and RM of Lac du Bonnet, the RMs of Over the past two decades, Pinawa has marketed itself as a Whitemouth and Brokenhead, and the town of Beausejour. prime location for business, and especially young ʺThis is a regional project, not just a Pinawa project,ʺ professionals. Utilizing the brands ʺDiscover the Secretʺ and Skinner says. ʺImagine yourself in a place…ʺ, Pinawa is no longer a secret Located on the edge of the Whiteshell Provincial Park, and some young families and many retirees have made the Pinawa is an impressive community with a mandate to boost move to enjoy the unbelievable quality of life in the riverside its population by attracting the new generation of family‑ town. centred entrepreneurs to enjoy Pinawaʹs high‑tech rural ʺIndeed, we have more than 100 new housing units since lifestyle. Pinawa is a community touched by boreal forest, the mid‑90s and the amount of vacant housing in Pinawa is sparkling lakes and vast parkland. The wildlife is spectacular low,ʺ Skinner says. ʺHowever, job creation from these — animals, birds and plants the city never sees. activities has been low and certainly nowhere close to the 700 Rural high speed Internet connects the wilderness jobs lost at the Whiteshell Laboratories in the late 90s or the community to the information highway. Its many natural remaining 350 jobs forecast to be lost by 2024. A change in attractions bring scores of tourists to the community each strategy to make job creation the number one priority is year. Tubing along the Pinawa Channel is a major attraction, necessary for Pinawa to continue to be a thriving community as is boating, fishing, skiing, golf, and a variety of other after the decommissioning of the site is complete.ʺ activities. The new regional strategy is being developed with the   $  '  #     &     %        %





Photo courtesy Barry Roden Guess Who guitarist Donnie McDougall (left) with blues legend Jeff Healey.  = ; 2 , 5 . 0 . 7 -  8 7 7 2 .  ,  8 = 0 * 5 5 5 2 4. ; < 8 :8 , 4
7 :8 5 5 D * 7 - 0 8 /2 ; 1 2 7 0 D 2 7  * , - =  8 7 7 . < IF youʹve ever heard the classic rock song ʺClap For The Wolfmanʺ by The Guess Who — one of Billboardʹs Top 100 songs of 1974 and still played in regular rotation on Canadian radio — youʹve heard Donnie McDougall sing and play the guitar. He started with the band in 1972. The first album he played on was Live at the Paramount, and he sang lead vocals on the song ʺGlace Bay Bluesʺ. He wrote and sang lead vocals on two tracks from the bandʹs 1973 album Artificial Paradise — ʺSamantaʹs Living Roomʺ and ʺLost and Found Townʺ. ʺThe Guess Who really broke the ice for a lot of bands in Canada. It used to be really hard to get your records played in the United States on the radio — the stations were all American music. The Guess Who opened the door, along with people like Gordon Lightfoot and Anne Murray. They really opened the door for a lot of people and groups who came after,ʺ McDougall says while he gazes out the window at the Winnipeg River in Lac du Bonnet. McDougall, now 67, sat down with Discover Lac du Bonnet during a recent visit he made to the community, one of many heʹs been making since the 1970s. His wife, Bonnie, is originally from the area. They live in B.C. now, but still come back to Manitoba as often as they can to visit. ʺI love fishing, itʹs one of my favourite things in the world     $  '  #     &     %

He still writes music, and still plays with The Guess Who when the opportunity arises. McDougall was part of the bandʹs post‑2000 reunion that did two cross‑country tours and featured Cummings, Randy Bachman and Garry Peterson. Heʹs also met a lot of other musical greats along the way, including Jeff Healey, whom he first met and performed with in 1987. Healey was a blind Canadian jazz and blues musician who hit No. 5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart with ʺAngel Eyesʺ and reached the Top 10 in Canada with the songs ʺI Think I Love You Too Muchʺ and ʺHow Long Can a Man Be Strong.ʺ He died in 2008. ʺTo say the least, I was totally blown away by his incredible guitar playing and his amazing baritone voice. It was always a pleasure to see him, he was a wonderful person Photo courtesy Manitoba Music Museum to talk to and he had a great sense of humour,ʺ McDougall Donnie McDougall (far left) with fellow Guess Who says. ʺWhen I learned about his passing I was very sad, yet members during their tour of Japan in the 1970s. very happy I had the chance to meet Jeff. He will never be forgotten and his music will live on forever.ʺ to do,ʺ he says. ʺI have lots of friends here with boats, and I McDougall is putting together a home studio, and still love to go out and catch goldeye and pickerel. We donʹt have enjoys writing and recording. pickerel where I live out in B.C., theyʹre in some lakes now ʺI love what I do,ʺ he says. ʺWhen Iʹm not writing and but you have to drive a long way to find them. Itʹs probably playing, I drive a truck. I go back to stuff like that. I got tired one of the best fish in the world as far as eating goes.ʺ of the touring. It takes its toll on a guy — Iʹm not 25 anymore. When he visits Lac du Bonnet, he still likes to get up on Writing keeps me really excited. Iʹve got some brand new stage and entertain. In 2015, he joined local band The stuff — my wife helps me write lyrics. Itʹs nice to have a Dastardly Daltons at a local bar and entertained the crowd partner like that who you can collaborate with.ʺ into the wee hours. In fact, The Guess Whoʹs connections with Lac du Bonnet are numerous. Bob Boyson, who designed the bandʹs famous logo featuring the Canadian flag and a beaver, married Bonnieʹs sister. Perhaps most memorable of all for Lac du Bonnet was when McDougall joined fellow Guess Who members Burton Cummings and Bill Wallace at the Lac du Bonnet Arena in 2001 for a fundraising concert for Raquel Godin, McDougallʹs neice and a former Lac du Bonnet resident who lost both her legs to meningitis. Twelve‑hundred people crammed into the arena for the event. Lac du Bonnetʹs Connie Dancyt helped organize that concert, and has fond memories of the event. ʺIt was great for Donnie to do that, and the fact he got Burton Cummings to join him was wonderful,ʺ she says. Photo courtesy Barry Roden ʺDonnieʹs a great guy, full of community spirit.ʺ Donnie McDougall plays to a massive crowd during the McDougall released his latest album, Best Wishes, in 2003. Molson Canadian Rocks for Toronto benefit concert in 2003.        %   $  '  #     &     %

; 42 2 7 0 :.* $42 %:*25; !:8>2-. =7 /8: <1. *625A ! :2 6 . ; 42 2 7 0 * ?* 2 < ; A8 = 2 7 ; 8 6 . + . * = < 2 /= 5 ?2 5 - . :7 . ; ; D < 1 * 7 4; < 8 5 8 , * 5 ; 42 , 5 = + ; GARY Halliday and his wife Jamie wanted to get some fresh air last winter, and take up a new hobby at the same time. Skiing seemed like an obvious choice, seeing as they donʹt live far from Lac du Bonnetʹs local ski trails. ʺWe wanted to ski for exercise, and my wife and I love the outdoors and the scenery, the fresh air blowing on our faces. Those trails are beautifully well‑groomed and close to home,ʺ Gary says. His sentiment is shared by many in the region who enjoy skiing over the winter months, as thereʹs plenty of skiing to do in both Lac du Bonnet and Pinawa when the snow falls. About 10 minutes west of Lac du Bonnet just off PR 317, you will find the Lac du Bonnet ski trails. There are just over 11 kilometres of groomed trails that take you through parts of the beautiful Agassiz Provincial Forest. These trails are great for beginners and more experienced skiers alike, since there are a few rolling hills, but nothing too steep or high. Pinawaʹs ski trails are also a skierʹs paradise. According to the Cross Country Ski Association of Manitoba, Pinawaʹs trails include ʺseven kilometres of rolling skating and classic trail on the Pinawa Golf Course, 40 kilometres of classic trails in Canadian Shield forest, and a 1.2‑kilometre lighted trail.ʺ Theyʹre also used for the annual Manitoba Loppet held in Photos by Stu Iverson Pinawa, the longest running annual cross‑country ski race in The Manitoba Loppet, held each year in Pinawa, is the the province. provinceʹs longest‑running annual cross‑country ski race.   $  '  #     &     %

; 42 2 7 0 Photo by Stu Iverson The Manitoba Loppet attracts skiers of all ages. There are no memberships required to ski the Lac du Bonnet or Pinawa trails. They are Gary Halliday recently took this selfie of he and wife Jamie using the ski open for anyone to enjoy, although donations trails near Lac du Bonnet. to the two ski clubs that maintain them are greatly appreciated. enjoying the beautiful fresh‑ smelling air. We highly recommend these ski trails And, youʹll get a great workout and to anyone. You will always want to go back,ʺ Gary adds. discover a healthy new hobby if youʹre not For Lac du Bonnet trail maps go to http://ow.ly/10excO. Donation cheques already an avid skier. can be mailed to Box 1198, Lac du Bonnet MB, R0E 1A0. ʺWeʹd like to get our two daughters out Pinawaʹs trail maps are available at whiteshellskiclub.com as is a donation and trying the skis and the trails, along with form.   $  '  #     &     %        %

The Winnipeg River is a major source of hydroelectric power for Manitoba. Photo courtesy Manitoba Hydro % 1 . (2 7 7 2 9 . 0 #2 >. : ?* ; < 1 . /2 :; < + 8 - A 8 / ?* < . : < 8 + :2 7 0 . 5 . , < :2 , 2 < A < 8  * 7 2 < 8 + * 7 ; A. * : :8 = 7 -   . :.
; * + :2 . / 1 2 ; < 8 :A THE history of the electrical industry in Manitoba tells development. The Dominion Water Board, which was the story of expediency, foresight and public responsibility. It responsible for the administration of water power resources in began over a century ago during the pioneer days of street Manitoba, did not begin its investigation into the potential lighting and street railway transportation in Winnipeg. Before power capacity of the Winnipeg River until July 1911. long, as the novelty of the new energy source gave way to In addition to not really knowing the hydroelectric necessity, other large communities in the province wanted the potential of the Winnipeg River, building Pinawa was an benefits that electricity would bring. They received electrical engineering challenge in 1902. The area where the Pinawa service, but often at very high costs. The Minnedosa River plant was the first hydroelectric generating station in Manitoba. It went into operation on the Minnedosa River (now known as the Little Saskatchewan River) in 1900. But it was actually the Pinawa hydroelectric generating station on the Winnipeg River that was the first hydroelectric generating station in Manitoba to operate year‑ round. Located on the Pinawa Channel, it was built for $3 million by Winnipeg Electric Railway Company (WERCo.), a privately‑owned firm. It went into operation in 1906. The river was a powerful source of energy for Manitobans, but oddly enough, no one knew it when the Pinawa plant went into operation. It was built at a time when nobody knew whether or not the river was suitable for hydroelectric   $  '  #     &     %

< . , 1 7 8 5 8 0 A generating station was built was rough and unsettled, with no roads and no rail lines into the site. Once the potential of the river was realized, other generating stations followed. The Pointe du Bois Generating Station was built in 1911 by City Hydro. It was the first hydroelectric generating station built by the publicly‑owned utility and today is the oldest power plant still in operation on the river. The Great Falls Generating Station was finished in 1923. The Seven Sisters Generating Station would follow in 1931, as would Slave Falls. The Pine Falls Generating Station went into operation in 1951. The same year, the Pinawa Generating Station was dismantled after 45 years of continuous service. It was retired to provide a more efficient use of water flows at Seven Sisters Generating Station. The grounds of the historic Pinawa power plant are now a provincial heritage park known as Old Pinawa. In 1954, the McArthur Falls Generating Station went into service. Its construction marked the end of hydroelectric development on the Winnipeg River. Although McArthur is the smallest generating station on the Winnipeg River, it also has the distinction of being the largest in the world operating with such a low waterfall — seven metres. Manitoba Hydro itself wasnʹt formed until 1961 after a series of amalgamations. It now operates all the hydroelectric plants in the province.   important source of providing power to Manitobans now and Employees and their families at the townsite beside the ʺThe Winnipeg River is going to continue to be a hugely Photo courtesy Manitoba Hydro in the future,ʺ says Scott Powell, Manitoba Hydroʹs public Great Falls Generating Station in 1923. affairs manager. A major project to upgrade the Pointe du Bois spillway was just completed — it was needed to maintain public and dam safety and to provide a modern and safer working environment for staff. Upgrades are also underway or planned for the other Winnipeg River plants, Powell says. ʺSo much infrastructure weʹre replacing now was installed back in the early‑ and mid‑20th century. We continue to see growth in electrical demand and we have to upgrade in order to meet that demand. Itʹs a testament to how well itʹs been maintained over the years.ʺ —with files from Manitoba Hydroʹs A History of Electric Power in Manitoba   $  '  #     &     %        %

1 2 ; < 8 :A my lee river of the 1960s  2 ; < 8 :A + = //  . :* 5 - $ * :* 9 = < * 4. ; = ; + * , 4 2 7 < 2 6 . < 8 ?1 . 7 < 1 .  . . #2 >. : , 8 6 6 = 7 2 < A ?* ; 6 = , 1 - 2 //. :. 7 < < 1 * 7 2 < 2 ; < 8 - * A MANY of my elders may add to this article with a different account, but I would like to relate to you my perceptions and experiences as I remember them as a youngster from the 1960s west side of the Lee River. I donʹt consider myself that old and it does not seem that terribly long ago, but the Lee River that I lived in as a child back in the 1960s was a very different place than it is today. Looking back, it seems that it was a time when things were in the process of changing and starting to evolve from a rural farm community of the past into what it is now. The population largely lived on small mixed farms, with the cattle population outnumbering people. Cottage subdivisions were only just on the horizon. The only lights visible after dark came from this scattering of farms with maybe a few from some camper trailers that were just starting each having their own ring. All parties could pick up the to frequent the area in the summer. Winter nights were very receiver and listen in on other peoplesʹ conversations, but dark indeed. most people didnʹt out of courtesy, although you still had to At that time, everybody knew everybody. You would see a watch what you said, just in case. vehicle driving down the road and know exactly who it was. ʺYep, thereʹs so and so, going to town today.ʺ That also applied to the river traffic, except that you got a longer look at them since the boats didnʹt move that terribly fast back then. One boat had an 80‑hp motor on it and it was considered a real powerhouse performer. Many of todayʹs conveniences were just starting to trickle in, even though they seemed to exist everywhere else — conveniences like telephones and TVs. Telephone poles had to be set and the overhead wire had to be run in order for us to get phone service. We finally could call the outside world, even if it was prone to outages and we had to share a party line. Our phone number was 636 and our ring was one long, one short. I believe there were six residences on our party line,    $  '  #     &     %

1 2 ; < 8 :A my lee river of the 1960s schools had consolidated into the Agassiz School Division Just before I came of school age, most of the country and they began busing the country students into Lac du Bonnet. As it was, for a short period of time I had to walk up to a mile to catch the school bus. In the early 1960s, I was a little young to care about the daily condition of the roads. They were what they were and everybody lived with it. In winter, if we were snowed‑in, we would have to wait for the red municipal grader to open the way. The roads all the way into Lac du Bonnet itself were all gravel and could get pretty sloppy in the rain. The gravel road between the Winnipeg River bridge and the Lee River bridge still exists today, and parallels the existing highway to the with wooden cleats driven by an engine mounted above it. north. It is now called Old Pointe Road. This pulled a sled that the operator and maybe a passenger The Winnipeg River bridge was narrower than it is today sat on. You steered it by swinging the drive unit left or right. and had train tracks down the centre. When driving across Not that fast, but fun. It then became really interesting when you also had to watch not to run over the anglers fishing from once the sleigh accidentally came unhitched. along its span. Wouldnʹt that have made things interesting Large home freezers were just starting to come about, so today with the boat traffic and lines hanging down? The Lee for long‑term food storage people still canned at home as River bridge was just a modified trestle train bridge and had much as they could. Many had root cellars and ice houses. For to be crossed slowly. The concrete pillars still stand to the the ice houses, ice blocks were taken from the river in winter north of the one now used. and dumped in a pit in the ice house. The ice was then Snowmobiles were just barely being heard of around here. covered with sawdust and the ice could last all summer. In winter, any impassable roads or off‑road travel had to be About that time, the Lee River Hall was in its final gasps. done with tractors outfitted with chains. The odd Bombardier The place was built in the late 1920s as a community and snow plane was around, but they were rare. My first ride gathering place and a social centre for the area by local on a snowmobile was a machine called a Husky. It had a track resident volunteers and was operated by the Lee River Farmers Co‑op. It held functions such as wedding receptions, socials, dances and funerals. Alas, times were changing and a meeting was held to determine the fate of the building. It seems that regulations were coming about that demanded indoor plumbing and washroom facilities in order to receive occasional permits. The building was sold and the kitchen section eventually removed, but it still stands at the corner of the Lee River Road turn‑off. All this is only a little more than 50 years ago. Now I watch TV from a satellite dish, browse the Internet on my computer and talk to a friend in Australia via Facebook on my smartphone. Go figure. Gerald Sarapu on behalf of the Lac du Bonnet and District Historical Society        %   $  '  #     &     %

6 = ; 2 , 7. ?.;86. =;2, .;<2>*5  2 :. (* < . : 6 * :4; 2 < ;   < 1 A. * : < 1 2 ; = 0 = ; < 5 8 7 0 ?. . 4. 7 - LAC du Bonnetʹs Fire & Water Music Festival is fast becoming known as Manitobaʹs favourite music festival. Need proof? The event was voted Manitobaʹs best‑loved festival in Travel Manitobaʹs Festival Madness contest earlier this year. The contest pitted Fire & Water against such well‑known music fests at the Winnipeg Folk Festival and Dauphin Countryfest. It came out on top after five rounds of voting. ʺAfter learning of the competition through a Facebook mention, I got the word out. What happened next was an amazing show of support from our fans and community. Vancouver duo Chicken‑Like Birds will perform this year. Word of the competition spread like wildfire — everyone was getting involved,ʺ says Fire & Water spokesperson Cyndie Those musicians include festival favourite Patrick Mitchell. Alexandre. Following his recent successes with Little Miss ʺUltimately, the success came from every like, share, re‑ Higgins and longtime bandmates The F‑Holes, multi‑ tweet, post, email, phone call and vote. I may have got the instrumentalist/producer/songwriter Alexandre is once again word out, but it was the community of Lac du Bonnet and the hard at work. This time, he has chosen a century‑old house in Fire & Water fans who took us all the way to the the heart of Wolseley near his Winnipeg home to record his championship.ʺ newest album, Strange New World. The Fire & Water Music Festival is a small, intimate festival ʺItʹs mostly based on bluesy stuff. Itʹs been really exciting dedicated to providing a truly unique visitor experience. A lot and refreshing to have been working on, and Iʹm refining a of planning goes into making sure music fans have the best new live show based on the new project. I donʹt usually play possible time they can. bass in this group. Instead I find myself on piano, guitar, and ʺMaking sure that we provide a spectacular sampling of harmonica. Itʹs lots of fun to be freed up from that big bass, independent Manitoba musicians is actually just one part of although I do miss her from time‑to‑time,ʺ he says. it,ʺ Mitchell says. This yearʹs 10th annual Fire & Water Music Festival takes ʺItʹs all in the details. I think itʹs the small things that really place July 29‑31, and concert‑goers will get to see Alexandre set us apart. Our festival is a homecoming weekend not only in action. He says itʹs one of his favourite festivals in Canada. for the fans, but for the musicians as well. Itʹs commonplace to ʺIʹd have to say the No. 1 thing I love about the festival is see the musicians mixing and mingling with the crowd, the community of Lac du Bonnet,ʺ he says. ʺIʹm always checking out the other musicians and hanging out with their treated so nicely there.ʺ fans.ʺ   $  '  #     &     %

6 = ; 2 , According to Mitchell, itʹs the volunteers who make it all possible. ʺWeʹre a non‑profit community festival. Everything we do in the planning stages starts right here at home. From hiring local talent and showcasing local crafters and artisans to the purchases we make and the partnerships we have developed with local community groups, itʹs all about Lac du Bonnet,ʺ she says. Alexandre agrees. ʺI tend to judge a festival by its volunteers. It seems to me that a good festival board can create an environment where the volunteers can take ownership and pride. Thatʹs what fosters a community feeling. Thatʹs what I see in Lac du Bonnet at festival time.ʺ As an anniversary show, organizers will be bringing back some festival favourites as well as introducing fans to some new bands at this yearʹs event, Mitchell says. ʺOne thing you Facebook photo can count on, we will be providing world‑class music.ʺ Patrick Alexandre will perform at Fire & Water in 2016. Performers this year include Vancouverʹs Chicken‑Like Birds, the combination of Ari Lantela — who is known for his Madness win, people are talking. refined sloppy blues guitar picking — and Jasmin ʺYou just donʹt beat out so many great music festivals like Frederickson, who has recently taken up the double bass. Folk Fest and Dauphin Countryfest without turning some Together they sing their original country blues and ragtime heads,ʺ Mitchell says. ʺWe generated a lot of online chatter songs about adventure, independent women, how to cook a and even had radio announcers talking about us. People who mean batch of cornbread and the pairʹs strange relationship. hadnʹt heard of Fire & Water before have now because of this Andrew Scott will return to the stage. Heʹs one of Albertaʹs contest.ʺ best musicians and one of Fire & Waterʹs fan favourites. For more info and updates on this yearʹs event, visit Thereʹs a lot more to discover as well, and after the Festival firenwater.ca.        %   $  '  #     &     %

Photo courtesy Donna Besel This photo of Donna Besel diving off her horse was taken in 1972 by the famous photographer Malak Karsh.  & #%% ! %  , 1 * 7 , . . 7 , 8 = 7 < . : < = :7 . - 2 7 < 8 < 1 . , 8 >. : 8 / * = < 1 8 :  8 7 7 *  . ; . 5
; /2 :; < + 8 8 4 8 / ; 1 8 :< ; < 8 :2 . ; IT was 1972, and Donna Besel was 16. She was swimming media about a retrospective exhibition at the National Gallery at West Hawk Lake with her family, where they lived and of Canada in Ottawa caught Beselʹs attention. The work on kept horses. They had a small pasture near their beach and display was by a photographer named Malak Karsh. would often take the animals into the lake to cool off. She was ʺI thought to myself, ʹHey, I recognize that name.ʹ I looked doing one of her favourite things — standing on her horseʹs at the back of the photo and thought, ʹHoly cow, this guy is back and diving off into the water (donʹt try this at home, really famous. I never realized it was him.ʹʺ kids) — when a man with a camera showed up. Malak Karsh was an Armenian‑Canadian photographer ʺHe happened to drive by, and saw us playing in the best known for his photographs of the Ottawa region. Born in water. He asked my father if he could take photos,ʺ she says. Mardin, Ottoman Empire, he immigrated to Canada in 1937. Photos were taken and the man politely thanked them for In 1963, he took a picture of floating logs on the Ottawa River, their time, but he came back the next day to give them some which was put on the back of the 1969‑1979 Scenes of Canada copies of the pictures, which had his name signed on the back. series Canadian $1 bill. ʺSomeone gave them to me before my parentsʹ home In 1996, he was made an officer of the Order of Canada. He burned down,ʺ Besel says. ʺI was lucky they didnʹt get lost in died in 2001. the fire.ʺ The photo taken that day in the Whiteshell is featured on The pictures sat around for years, until a story in the the cover of Beselʹs new book of short stories, Lessons from a    $  '  #     &     %

Nude Man, which recently earned a spot on McNally Robinson Booksellers list of 2015 bestsellers. :<; 8= 7 ,25 Besel lives on the shores of the Winnipeg River near Powerview‑Pine Falls. Her writing has accumulated !:8>2- .; numerous honours — second place in Prairie Fireʹs contest, shortlist in CBCʹs Literary Awards, finalist in CBCʹs  :.* < Canada Writes, and first place in This magazineʹs Great Canadian Literary Hunt. In May of 2015, Reginaʹs Hagios 998:<= 7 2<A Photo courtesy Donna Besel Press published Lessons from a Nude Man, Donna Besel recently published her first book. her first book of short stories, Besel teaches in the Artists in the <8 87 7 .,< Lessons from a Nude Man, Schools program in communities all over which became a McNally Manitoba and leads writing workshops Robinson bestseller. and does presentations for children and The Winnipeg River Arts Council adults in schools, libraries, resorts and enhances quality of life in northeastern other venues, including a nearby correctional facility. Manitoba by advancing arts and culture. ʺWe have urban writers, and Mennonite writers, and indigenous writers, WRAC looks forward to serving and Francophone writers, and this book helped me nail down the type of residents, visitors, artists and arts groups writer I am — a writer living in the boreal forest,ʺ she says. within the Winnipeg River corridor (east Her stories follow a range of characters — from a trio of construction of Hwy. 11 and north of PR 317). The workers renovating a cottage in the Whiteshell to a woman who watches a region is culturally diverse and home to deer fall through the ice of the Winnipeg River. many talented artists and arts She uses her own life experience to breathe life into the people she creates organizations that provide opportunities on the page. for arts and culture. WRACʹs regional ʺPeople often say to me, ʹWriting must be good therapy.ʹ Itʹs actually the structure will help community arts other way around — itʹs good therapy that allows the writing to happen,ʹʺ organizations, schools and recreation Besel says. services work together to plan larger Besel is also involved in the Winnipeg River Arts Council, which helps regional arts initiatives by facilitating the community arts organizations, schools and recreation services work together sharing of resources, information and to plan larger regional arts initiatives by facilitating the sharing of resources, talents. WRAC seeks to contribute to information and talents. economic growth by promoting the ʺEvery time I speak to an artist, it reminds me of the importance of the arts regionʹs arts and cultural assets to in peopleʹs lives,ʺ she says. residents and tourists. Besel does volunteer writing for the Arts Council, helps to create a Get involved and help enhance art monthly newsletter for the group and also profiles a monthly featured artist and culture in our communities and or arts organization article for local newspapers. region by joining a committee or helping ʺThis work reminds me how clear writing can connect people to each with a project. other and also promote local artists and their art, which helps build For more info, visit community.ʺ winnipegriverarts.com.        %   $  '  #     &     %

&%  # ) &# !%$ '. < . :2 7 * :2 * 7 $ < . 9 1 . 7 < 42 7 ; 8 7 ; * A; < 1 . :. * :. 6 * 7 A 9 . < 1 * B * :- ; 8 = < * < < 1 . 5 * 4.  ; 8 2 <
; 2 6 9 8 :< * 7 < < 8 4. . 9 * 7 . A. 8 7 A8 = : , * 7 2 7 . 8 : /. 5 2 7 . /:2 . 7 - COMING out to the lake is a freeing experience for many Manitobans each year, but as veterinarian Stephen Atkinson points out, it also means a lot of dogs get to run free as well — which can spell trouble for the animals. ʺIf youʹre coming out here from Winnipeg, itʹs important to understand there are certain hazards out here not prevalent in the city,ʺ says Atkinson, a vet for the Lac du Bonnet Veterinary Service and Beausejour Animal Hospital. Atkinson, 47, has pretty much seen it all when it comes to the hazards that can befall animals in a rural setting. Not only does he work as a veterinarian, he moonlights as a wildlife biologist studying polar bears in the Canadian Arctic. ʺWild and domestic animals are essentially the same — a wolf is a dog, a tiger is a cat. The diseases and problems they Veterinarian Stephen Atkinson moonlights as a wildlife have are a bit different, but theyʹre essentially the same biologist studying polar bears in the Canadian Arctic. animal,ʺ he says. ʺWorking with domestic animals helps me in my work with wild animals. In domestic animals we have the opportunity to do so much more in terms of physical examination and diagnostic testing. We have an opportunity to work much more closely with them, and that way we learn a lot more about how animals function and how illnesses show themselves.ʺ Fortunately, there are a number of things pet owners can do to ensure their dog, and to some extent their cat, is protected from the hazards present in Lac du Bonnet and other areas of rural Manitoba. ʺItʹs crucial to ensure the animal has the necessary vaccinations,ʺ Atkinson says. Thereʹs big potential for transmission of rabies and parvovirus in rural areas, he notes. Parvovirus, a highly contagious disease which causes a life‑threatening illness in dogs, can be transmitted through the feces of wolves and coyotes, which dogs will often sniff out in the bush. ʺUnlike rabies, dogs donʹt have to actually come in contact with a wild animal itself to get parvovirus,ʺ Atkinson says. Lyme disease is also becoming a lot more common in dogs, he notes, and thereʹs a very effective vaccine now available. ʺMany dogs test positive for Lyme disease and donʹt show clinical signs right away, but they do get the symptoms in time — lameness, lethargy, fever. Itʹs important to check them for ticks even if they are vaccinated, because if your dog is getting ticks, chances are youʹre walking around in the same areas and might be picking them up yourself. Dogs are very    $  '  #     &     %

good sentinels when it comes to warning us about ticks.ʺ dogs backed over by trailers or run over by cars. It can be a Itʹs also important to ensure your dog is up‑to‑date on its dangerous world, he says, and the best defence is to keep heartworm prevention as well. your pet close to you at all times, and walking it on a leash is ʺIf animals are outside wandering, they may be finding always a good idea. and eating things they shouldnʹt, like toxic plants, remains of ʺWhen off‑leash, itʹs best not to let them range too far,ʺ he carcasses, things that can lead to gastrointestinal upset, adds. poisoning, blockages of the intestinal tract, things like that,ʺ The Lac du Bonnet Veterinary Service, he says, works hard Atkinson says. to ensure the animals they deal with receive the best care Allergic reactions are also common — Atkinson sees pets possible. If your animal seems ill, itʹs important to note any with swelling and difficulty breathing, which can often come physical signs that may be out of the ordinary, no matter how from bee stings and other sources. insignificant they may seem. Blastomycosis — a potentially fatal infection caused by a ʺAnimals canʹt tell us how they feel. When weʹre presented fungus that grows in moist soil and vegetation — can also with a sick animal, we rely on the owner to give us a history occur in dogs, and humans can get it, too. of what theyʹre seeing, as weʹre not familiar enough with the ʺIt can happen anywhere where thereʹs loamy, sandy dog or cat, or cow or horse, to know whatʹs different about it. soils,ʺ Atkinson says. ʺDogs breathe it in while rooting around We need to know what the owner is seeing, how long itʹs been with their noses. They donʹt show signs of illness immediately going on, and if itʹs unusual. Thatʹs often the most important after exposure, though. If you do have a dog out ranging piece of the puzzle.ʺ around, be very careful if you do notice loss of appetite, If in doubt, phone. The Lac du Bonnet Veterinary Service sneezing, coughing or lethargy.ʺ provides 24/7 phone and emergency support. Dogs and cats can also get into scraps with other animals, ʺYou can phone us anytime, even if youʹre not necessarily both wild and domestic, so itʹs important to keep a lookout coming in for an appointment. We can often provide for that as well, Atkinson notes. assistance remotely,ʺ Atkinson says. ʺWe do tend to see quite a few dogs involved in fights with If youʹre coming out to the lake with a pet that has any what we think are probably coyotes. It happens more often specific medical conditions that require medication, itʹs than youʹd think, and contrary to popular belief, size is no always a good idea to ensure you have extra medicine on protection — in fact, it seems the bigger dogs run into more hand in case of an emergency, he adds. problems than smaller ones.ʺ For more info on the Lac du Bonnet Veterinary Service, He also sees other injuries resulting from human error, like visit beausejourvet.ca or call 204‑345‑2535.        %   $  '  #     &     %

/2 :. ; * /. < A Photo by Nancy Bremner The new fire operations centre has concrete helicopter landing pads, water and wastewater services, a regional fire centre office and warehouse, district fire buildings and staff accommodations.  . ?  2 :. 9 . :* <2 8 7 ;  . 7 <:. (* <,1 2 7 0 >. : #. 0 2 8 7 (. 6 = ; < * 5 5 - 8 8 = : 9 * :< < 8 :. - = , . < 1 . :2 ; 4 * 7 - . //. , < ; 8 / /8 :. ; < /2 :. ; LAC du Bonnet has a new $9.3‑million, 16,260 square‑foot cancelled. regional fire operations centre to enhance forest protection Open fires are prohibited from April 1 to Nov. 15 annually, and firefighting capabilities in eastern and central Manitoba, unless a burning permit is obtained or fires are in enclosed, as well as the Whiteshell and Nopiming provincial parks. approved fire pits such as campfire grates in provincial Firefighters need the right equipment and have to be ready campsites. to go at a momentʹs notice to ensure the safety of the public — To report fires, call 1‑800‑782‑0076. the new base will provide staff with modern facilities and ensure they are ready to protect homes, cottages, businesses and forest resources. The new site includes an asphalt entrance road, taxiway and apron for parking planes and equipment. In addition, the base has concrete helicopter landing pads, water and waste‑ water services, a regional fire centre office and warehouse, district fire buildings and staff accommodations. The centre will bring a new sense of fire safety to the area with the security of the centre right in the community, notes town mayor Gordon Peters. Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardshipʹs fire program is responsible for the detection and suppression of wildfires across the province. Staff monitor weather patterns, lightning strikes, soil moisture and forest conditions to determine the probability and location of wildfires, and use elite initial attack crews, helicopters, water bombers, other aircraft and heavy equipment to fight fires. Wildfires not only impact forest resources but can also become a disaster for affected families and communities. The new centre will ensure the area is properly prepared to reduce the risk and effects of forest fires for Manitobans. As always, preventing forest fires in the first place is paramount for the province. According to Greg Shabaga, regional service superintendent for Manitoba Conservation, monitoring conditions for when itʹs appropriate to burn is a big help in preventing them. When conditions are too dry, backcountry travel is often restricted and burning permits are    $  '  #     &     %

/2 :. ; * /. < A Having a campfire is always fun, but can be dangerous if you donʹt follow some simple guidelines. %2 9 ; /8 :  * >2 7 0 * 7 7 3 8 A* + 5 . * 7 - $ * /.  * 6 9 /2 :. Building a campfire can be a lot of fun, but be sure to keep safety in mind before, during, and after youʹve built it. As youʹre enjoying your campfire, remember these safety tips: —Keep your fire to a manageable size —Make sure children and pets are supervised when near the fire —Never leave your campfire unattended —Never cut live trees or branches from live trees When youʹre ready to put out your fire and call it a night, follow these guidelines: —Allow the wood to burn completely to ash, if possible —Pour lots of water on the fire and drown ALL embers, not just the red ones —Pour until hissing sound stops —Stir the campfire ashes and embers with a shovel —Scrape the sticks and logs to remove any embers —Stir and make sure everything is wet and they are cold to the touch —If you do not have water, use dirt. Mix enough dirt or sand with the embers. Continue adding and stirring until all material is cool. Remember: do NOT bury the fire as the fire will continue to smoulder and might eventually get to the surface and start a wildfire. —smokeybear.com        %   $  '  #     &     %

1 * 9 9 A < :* 2 5 ; Beautiful scenery like this can be enjoyed from the Blueberry Rock section of the Trans Canada Trail in Lac du Bonnet. %:* 7 ; * 7 * - * %:* 2 5  2 0 1 5 2 0 1 <; :.*
; .* = <A (* 7 < < 8 5 . 7 - * 1 * 7 - 6 * 2 7 < * 2 7 2 7 0 8 = : < :* 2 5 7 . < ?8 :4 '8 5 = 7 < . . :; * :. ?. 5 , 8 6 . THE Lac du Bonnet Trails Association has a vision for a network of trails in the RM and Town of Lac du Bonnet to encourage safe, active, year‑round recreational activities. These trails highlight the natural beauty of the area, focus on preservation of the environment, promote healthy lifestyles, bring an awareness of local history, and provide accessibility for all. Our local trails group is responsible for the Blue Water South portion of the Trans Canada Trail, which extends from the Pinawa Dam Provincial Heritage Park to Great Falls, a distance of approximately 37 kilometres. The Pinawa dam site was once a thriving community and is now a popular day use spot for visitors to enjoy swimming, hiking, paddling, and exploring history through a self‑guided walk. From the Pinawa Heritage Park, the trail heads west along Pinawa Hill Road for approximately three kilometers. It then turns north to wind through the Lee River Wildlife Management Area for five kilometers before it crosses Tower Road, continuing north for another three‑and‑a‑half kilometers through Lee River WMA until it reaches PR 313. Once the trail crosses PR 313, it continues north for one kilometer until it arrives at Old Pointe Road. The trail heads west along this municipal road up to the Winnipeg River bridge. This is the location of Bridge Park, complete with a boat launch, parking lot, picnic tables, and washroom facilities. There is also a cairn marking the eastern edge of Manitoba when it was known as the postage stamp province.

1 * 9 9 A < :* 2 5 ; /2 :. ; * /. < A The trail continues across the bridge on the pedestrian walkway, heading west on the north side of PR 313 until it arrives at Blueberry Rock Drive. At this point it heads north on the municipal road until it gets to the parking lot of the Blueberry Rock hiking trail system. The Blueberry Rock trails are a favourite spot to hike and explore, climb the lookout tower for a view of the Winnipeg River, and have a cookout in the fire pits. The north end of the trail crosses Blueberry Rock Drive and follows Mackenzie Point Road for a short distance, arriving at the south end of the dike along the Winnipeg River. Within the Town of Lac du Bonnet, paved pathways through Leslie Park, Lakeside Park, and along McArthur Avenue provide routes for walking, bike riding, wheelchairs and strollers. These well‑used paths allow residents and visitors access Thereʹs much to discover on Lac du Bonnetʹs portion of the to safe year‑round physical activity away from busy traffic Trans Canada Trail. areas, and are well‑maintained by town public works staff. promoting and advertising, and providing amenities for trail 2017 is an important year for trails in Canada, and users. especially for this area. It is Canadaʹs 150th anniversary of This ambitious project requires the help of many Confederation, the 25th anniversary of the Trans Canada volunteers to dedicate their time and energy to make it a Trail, and the 100th anniversary of the RM of Lac du Bonnet. reality. Why not lend a hand — itʹs a great opportunity to get The goal is to have the Trans Canada Trail fully connected involved and be part of the legacy that is the Trans Canada %:* 7 ; * 7 * - * %:* 2 5  2 0 1 5 2 0 1 <; :.*
; .* = <A across the country by then, with special celebrations to commemorate this milestone. Trail. Email [email protected] or call 204‑345‑8422 to get involved. Kathy Picard on behalf of the Lac du Bonnet Trails There is much work to be done before then in the way of Association signage of trails, production of maps and brochures,        %

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; , * :. . : ; < * :< . - * < * 5 2 < < 5 . + 8 8 4 ; 1 8 9 2 7 ! 8 2 7 < . - =  8 2 ; A store in Pointe du Bois was the beginning of Lac du Bonnet‑based illustrator Larry Nadolskyʹs career. The 56‑year‑old specializes in a genre known as neopulp, a visual form of art that embraces the clichés of pulp writing, complete with the ʺsuperscience of B‑movies, the nefarious underworld criminal mastermind, the lone sheriff against a town of outlaws, the young woman torn between love for a mysterious stranger and respect for her fiancée, and the mad god bent on destruction,ʺ according to Adam Fordʹs The Neopulp Manifesto. The store in Pointe was where Nadolskyʹs mother worked, and sheʹd often bring home comic books for her young son. ʺBack then all the copies they didnʹt sell, theyʹd tear off the covers and send them back for returns. So my mom would bring back stacks and stacks of comic books that they were just going to throw out. Back then, every little store had a comic book rack. Thatʹs how I really got into it,ʺ he says. ʺLater on, I subscribed to a weekly newspaper called the Comic Buyers Guide. They had a help wanted section in the back. I would send stuff away in the mail. Thatʹs how I got started.ʺ Since then, Nadolskyʹs work has swung back and forth from comics to painting. He has dozens of comic book credits, both pencil and ink. His real love is painting and heʹs painted many book, magazine and comic covers. His influences are the traditional illustrators of the 1940s to 1970s. Heʹs drawn for the likes of Heavy Metal magazine and countless comic book publishers. ʺI rediscovered old pulp magazines and old movie posters. Iʹm a throwback, like an old‑time illustrator from 50 years ago,ʺ he says. According to writer Natalie Baaklini, neopulp cover art as Larry Nadolskyʹs work showcases a genre known as we know it today was born in the pulp era of 1920‑1955, but neopulp, a visual form of art that embraces the clichés of the process of evolution actually started decades earlier in the pulp writing.   $  '  #     &     %

1800s with Scientific American, one of the longest‑running science magazines still in print today. ʺUnderlying the academic nature of the publication is the need to entice the readership with a sense of adventure. People didnʹt travel for leisure back then, but for those who bought this issue of Scientific American, a foreign land full of soldiers and their weapon‑mounted camels was at their fingertips,ʺ she writes. Fast forward to the popular science fiction collections of the 1920s like Amazing Stories — which featured works by the likes of H.G. Wells and Jules Verne — and the genreʹs legacy was cemented. The industry has changed a lot from those early days, though. Nadolsky, a former Manitoba Hydro employee, is just one of countless neopulp illustrators who make up a hugely popular industry. He used to rely on fax machines and old‑fashioned snail mail to communicate with publishers, but the magic of the Internet has made it easier than ever before to do his work. ʺIn the music industry, anyone can put out an album now, and art is the same way. Itʹs come full circle and thereʹs an avalanche of stuff out there,ʺ he says. ʺThe art industry will look down on an illustrator, but when you think about it, people like Michelangelo, da Vinci and Rembrandt were illustrators. They painted what they were hired to paint.ʺ On Facebook? Check out Nadolskyʹs work at facebook.com/larry.nadolsky.        %   $  '  #     &     %

6 = ; . = 6 7 8 < . ; 1 * 9 9 A < :* 2 5 ; 2 ;,8>.: $86 .  2 ;<8:A * < 8,* 5  = ;.= 6 LAC du Bonnet loves to showcase its history, and next year will be no exception. In 2017, the RM of Lac du Bonnet will turn 100 years old. Some big plans are in the works to celebrate, but if you want to get an early start on learning about the areaʹs past, just pay a visit to our local museum. The Lac du Bonnet District Museum collects and preserves area artifacts from prehistoric to early pioneer times. Growing photo displays focus on the regionʹs 27‑plus nationalities that through the years melded to form the village and RM of Lac du Bonnet. Opening the door, one discovers how hydro dam construction, the railway, aviation, timber, brick, pulp, fishing, mining, tourism, hunting, trapping, forestry and farming contributed to the communityʹs development. Itʹs located in a restored hand‑crafted log cabin built in 1935 by Hans Erickson for his daughter Linnea Tyndall. The Lac du Bonnet District Museumʹs annual heritage day Erickson immigrated to Canada from Norway in 1904 and is always a fun event for the whole family. found work blasting rock and cutting wood at the Pinawa games for children, a tour of the museum and bannock‑ hydro dam. He was one of the first to secure a homestead making. In the fall, the museum will host a bus tour to an grant of 160 acres north of the Pinawa dam townsite. historic place, an annual event that has become popular in Exciting events are planned for 2016, according to museum recent years. volunteer Leon Clegg, including a Finnish heritage display. The museum is located in Halliday Park at the junction of As usual, the museum will have a float in the Canada Day PR 313 and PR 502. For event dates and museum hours, visit parade, always something to watch for. ldbhistorical.ca. Its annual heritage day will also take place, featuring    $  '  #     &     %

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