New Britannia Mine STAFF Mines Come and Mines Go, but It Isn't Often That One Britannia Standards

THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

Volume 1, Issue 1 SNOW LAKE, MANITOBA September, 2004 The “NEW” New Britannia Mine STAFF Mines come and mines go, but it isn't often that one Britannia standards. In fact, during the last couple of months, opens up again after it has gone. For certain, it rarely the mine's grade has been running 0.17 - 0.18 oz. of gold per ton happens twice - and likely never happens before the mine of ore. That is almost double the grade that was coming out of officially closes. However, this appears to be what is in store for New Brit' over the past year. the community of Snow Lake's New Britannia Mine. As a result, the mine's 50% owner and operator, Kinross Gold, This week it was officially announced that the New Brit' mine has approved an exploration proposal that will see workers drive a will continue on for the next three years and if everything falls 900 ft. exploration drift just below the mine's 3600 level. As well, into place, it could possibly produce even longer. Kinross have agreed to restart New Brit's main ramp and ore "We have finally mined past a large waste inclusion within the development in the mine's Dick Zone. main orebody, which ran about 300 vertical feet in height," said Once the drift is finished, a drill will be moved in and about New Britannia Mine's General Manager, Mike Kelly early last 15,000 ft. of diamond drilling will be done in order to firm up week. "As a result, we find that we are back into better grade ore. reserves in the new area. "We're confident that it's there for at But there is also this new area; over and above existing ore we least a couple of hundred vertical feet," said the open and knew was there." energetic Kelly. "Which means another 50 to 100 thousand extra Kelly says this new extension of New Brit's Dick Zone has a ounces, possibly a lot more, but we just don't know until we northwest trend, which was not seen before. "We started to get a diamond drill." He added that drilling should wrap up by little sniff of it in the spring," he said. "With the last couple of December and there will be an announcement made on the sills it has lengthened and the grade improved, and then with the results at its conclusion. last sill scheduled to be mined before closure, it really took off for Even though the Kinross approved program calls for another about 400 ft. to the north and appears to continue at depth." three years of operation, depending on the extent of The grade of the ore in this area has been exceptional by New (SEE “NEW” on page 3)

Linda Butler - Historian with a cause Canada Day – Snow Lake’s summer celebration

Canada Day is Snow Lake’s signature summer event. It is a STAFF Herb Lake, Manitoba was once a prosperous mining town. In STAFF: the 1930s and ‘40’s, it hummed with activity and even though celebration that the community’s young and old look forward it couldn’t be accessed by anything other than boat and a winter road, it to with a sense of anticipation and reflect upon with feelings of was home to between 600 and 700 people. It’s tree lined streets boasted gratification. three or four stores, a dairy, a butcher shop, a restaurant, a barber shop, Compared to last year’s celebration, which was curtailed somewhat by post office, hotel and beer parlor, a blacksmith shop, a school and the weather; Snow Lake’s 2004 Canada Day celebration went off (nearly) churches. However, with the end of the Second World War and the without a hitch. prosperity and technological change that it fostered, the town’s mines The celebration kicks off each year with the Canada Day dance, which wavered and waned before crashing completely. The town came to its is held in the Wilfred T. Lipton Arena on June 30th. This is an event own demise in the late 1950’s. Her streets are mostly rabbit runs now that sees many attendees get decked out in their Canada Day colours and her carefully tended gardens are a tangle of caragana and poplar before donning their dancing shoes. It is also a chance to visit with the trees. This once proud and resourceful community is all but a memory, numerous former Snow Lakers who make the trek back each year for this laid out in the dog-eared photographs owned by the few left who were right of summer. This year’s dance was waylaid a bit, when the band’s once a part of her history. bus ran out of propane at Ponton and they were late arriving. However, Linda Butler is one of the elements of this ghost town’s past, and even this gave people a chance to visit, and when the band finally did arrive though she admits that her memories of Herb Lake are those of a little and set up, their mix of ‘70’s and ‘80’s rock was appreciated by most. girl, she has long been a purveyor of the town’s past and a curator and On July 1st, the Canada Day celebration kicked off with the pancake collector of the many photos that are basically all, of any substance, that breakfast at the Senior’s Center, before the parade got underway around is left of the town. She has been gathering Herb Lake pictures for 11:15 a.m. This year’s procession was marshaled by Rene’ Lamontange decades and says that she has over 1000 of them in one form or another. and Corporal Bob MacKnight of the RCMP. The floats traveled a She relates that over the years she has had a lot of people ask her what number of streets throughout the town – doling out treats – before the she was planning to do with all of these pictures, and up until just lately, parade concluded at the Sunset Bay Beach. she didn’t have an answer for them. Once at the beach, everyone gathered in front of the flagpole. With (SEE BUTLER on page 3) (SEE CANADA DAY on page 4) September, 2004 Page 2 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

E D IT O R IA L Lake-Land Phoenix. Who knows how long it will fly for, but I’ll give it my best shot and I’m sure all of the columnists are with me ell, it hasn’t been that long, has it? The June 2004 edition on that. Let’s hope the Snow Lake/New Brit’/Lake-Land Phoenix of The Underground Press was to be the last. True to my turns into an eagle and soars for years to come. word, it was. However, with the revitalization of the New ~**~ Britannia Mine came an extension of their offer to produce a Just to let you all know that the reemergence of this paper is due newspaper using the mine’s paper and copier. We’re back, but primarily to the enormous outpouring of email, phone calls, and not as The Underground Press. in person comments I received after the posting of the last issue This new paper, that will hopefully have all the same columns of The Underground Press. I hadn’t realized that what we were and content that the old one had, is named, as you’ve likely doing here meant so much to so many. I also didn’t realize, until already noted, The Lake-Land Phoenix. Now, before you go off all many of you stated it, that you would miss it as much as I would. half-cocked about the lame name that Jackson came up with for I’m hoping that we can pick up right where we left off with this the paper, let me explain its origin. new paper. Thank you, so much, for your support. Firstly, I’ll deal with the Lake and the Land. Residents of ~**~ Snow Lake have a long history of living off of the lakes and land In talking to Linda Butler (nee Vance) last month, I was of this area. Over the years, we have derived both our pleasure dismayed to hear that one of our best known pioneers, Kathleen and our paycheques from these two aspects of our environment. Rice, is laid to rest in an unmarked grave in Minnedosa, They provide us all with an endless supply of natural beauty and Manitoba. I’m also surprised that this has never come to the wealth and for many, the lakes and this particular patch of land community’s attention before. Miss Rice has, after all, been are the main reason we are here. interred there since her passing in 1964. I think it is quite noble Secondly, the phoenix. As many know, a phoenix is a mythical of Linda to attempt to generate money to pay for a headstone for bird, the only one of its kind. Legend states that it periodically Miss Rice’s grave; however, I’m wondering if we can wait until she burns itself to death and emerges from the ashes as a new sells enough CD’s to make the purchase. As a citizen of Snow phoenix, fresh and beautiful, and ready for another long life. Lake, I’m embarrassed by the fact that we promote Kathleen Hence, to “rise like a phoenix from the ashes” is to overcome a Rice’s name and historical impact on both our town and museum seemingly insurmountable setback. A phoenix is often an web site, yet this is how we remember her. She deserves far better emblem of immortality or of reborn idealism and hope. It is also than this. used to describe things so exceptional that they have no equal or Personally, I don’t think that we can, or should, just wait and match. In his letter to the editor in the final edition of The see if Linda can generate the funds to pay for a marker (after, of Underground Press, Tom Hilliard mentioned his wish that, like a course, the maintenance is done on the Herb Lake Graveyard). phoenix, a new mine might rise from the ashes of the New Brit’ So, what are we going to do about it? Mine. How amazingly prophetic that statement turned out to I asked the town if they were interested in properly be. memorializing this pioneer. Although there was some support, Does the description of a phoenix fit for the New Britannia the old “If we do this for her, we will be setting precedent”, Mine? Yes! This mine has had two incarnations in the past 57 mentality shone through. After that meeting, Ken Booth years. It rose from the ashes of the Britannia Mine in 1995 and suggested that I contact the local Historical Society. Although went on to bring prosperity to our community for close to ten they are on the verge of folding, the group does have some money years. When it hopefully rises from the ashes again in 2005, lets in the bank. Their President, Clair Pilgrim says he feels the Kate hope it can repeat, and even better, its past performance. Rice proposal has merit. However, before moving on a purchase, Does the description of a phoenix fit for Snow Lake? he would like to write a few letters to try and track down some of Definitely! When the old Britannia Mine was winding down in her family. If no family can be found, he thinks they would go the mid-fifties, some of the “realists” of the day said the town was ahead then. “It is a very good idea, and by spring I think it will be doomed. Her citizens would move on and it would end up as a done,” said Pilgrim. ghost town. It didn’t happen. Sure the Britannia closed, but the There are others too, who are interested in doing what’s right town rose again when HBM&S came in and fueled her economy (SEE EDITORIAL on page 4) for close to 40 years. After their four-decade run, they eventually ran out of economically viable ore bodies and the doom, gloom, and “realism” set in again. However, Snow Lake sprang forth THE Lake-Land PHOENIX from the ashes once more when TVX Gold came in and is a monthly, independent newspaper, published in resurrected the Britannia Mine in 1995. Now, when “realists” Snow Lake, Manitoba. said it couldn’t happen again, it looks like it has. Kinross and EDITOR: Marc W. Jackson High River have determined that there is still more gold in Correspondence: P.O. Box 490, Snow Lake, MB., R0B 1M0 “them thar” stopes, so up from the funeral pyre Snow Lake flies Phone: (204)358-2887 again. email: [email protected] Does the description of a phoenix fit for this paper? I think so! http://www.mts.net/~mjaxon It went down as The Underground Press and has come back as The ALL NEWS... NO FILLER September, 2004 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX Page 3

(BUTLER from page 1) many captions as I can. I think that if I can identify at least a few people “I’d like to put them all together on a CD,” said Butler during a recent in a group photograph, I’ll include it on the CD. Otherwise I’ll leave it visit back to the area. “In turn, I’d like to sell these CDs and if I could out. I won’t worry if some people in a given photo are unidentified. I generate some money, it could go towards creating some sort of Herb think some will always go unidentified. Following that, I’ll update my Lake fund, that could be used for restoration of the old Herb Lake Herb Lake Web Page and offer the CD for sale on the page.” graveyard.” Yes, even though the town’s buildings and streets have long She says that once people find out about the project, it will no doubt been laid to waste, this community, like so many others, had a graveyard. generate more inquires and more people sending her pictures. “If this The Herb Lake graveyard is located on Wekusko Lake, a mile or so by turns out, I could clear out and organize all the photos I currently have, boat or trail from the outskirts of the ghost town. Butler says that the then do it again, or somebody else could,” said Butler. “We could end community expected to expand and may not have wanted the graveyard up with various volumes of Herb Lake history. However, I will have to in town. In any event, this little known plot is well away from the ghost organize and make this one available and that is step one. The objective town of Herb Lake, and like the town, it is also grown over and would be to have it ready for sale by Christmas, but I’m unsure if that unattended. Hardly the memorial it was meant to be for the remains of will happen,” she says hesitantly. Adding, “I’ll shoot for Christmas.” the fifteen or so persons interred there. If one didn’t know where to look, it could certainly be passed over as being just another acre or so of (“NEW” from page 1) bush. mineralization and the grades found, there could possibly be There is also another graveyard where she would like to see some more. "In theory, if there is enough ore and the ounces are money go, although it would only be spent on a single grave. That grave proven up, we could even look at an internal shaft," said Kelly. is unmarked and sits in a cemetery in Minnedosa, Manitoba. It belongs The company has talked about an internal shaft before. to Trapper, Prospector, and area pioneer, Kathleen Rice. “It’s a shame, here is one of the original pioneers from this area and her grave isn’t However, they have maintained that there would have to be a even marked,” Butler said shaking her head. “I just believe that if there substantial amount of material below the 3600 level in order to is some way that my collection of pictures of these old pioneers can raise justify its close to $20 million cost. "We would likely need at least money to restore their gravesites, or their family’s gravesites, then it’s three quarters of a million ounces defined in this new area, worth my while to make the attempt.” before even considering the huge capital costs of an internal “However,” she adds. “I’m not here to clean up the graveyard myself shaft," Kelly explained. or even to organize it. I wouldn’t be able to hire someone, because I It has been said that good news begets good news and the fact wouldn’t be here to watch them. To me it’s a community thing. And I that the mine will continue for the immediate future could understand that Snow Lake has its own problems and issues right now. possibly bring about even more ore as the result of surface Herb Lake is not a part of this community as such. By and large it was different people. But if what I’m doing with this CD generates some exploration. "The strike length of the ore body to the east has interest in taking on the task, then I’d like to see that happen.” never been looked at," said Kelly. "The beauty of this program is Butler, 58, is now retired from her job of 27 years in the B.C Court that it gives Kinross a multiple year window to look at surface System. She resides with her husband of 34 years, Garfield, in exploration east of the shaft. Realistically, you have to crawl Chilliwack, B.C. However, she was born in the north and lived most of before you walk and I wasn't about to push for a surface her formative years in the Herb and Snow Lake area. For those who exploration program at this time. Perhaps in the next phase or in don’t know her, she is the former Linda Vance, the daughter of Herb/ next year's budget, we'll look at that," he added. Snow Lake General Store owners and area pioneers, Charlie and Naomi One company or another has mined Snow Lake's massive Nor- Vance. For many years, she has not only been a collector, but also a Acme gold deposit over a long and impressive span of 55 years. writer and a documenter of the legend and lore of the ghost town of Herb Lake. In that time, the community has stressed and worried through Even though she physically left the area shortly after finishing high the closure announcement of two mines spawned by the deposit; school, her heart has always been here. She seems to have a spiritual tie the Old Britannia Mine, which announced closure and eventually to Wekusko Lake and feels drawn to return. Her husband Garfield says did shut down in the late 1950's and the New Britannia Mine, that the attachment and draw that his wife feels towards the area where which announced closure in November of 2003, but from all she spent so little of her life, is commanding. “It is very powerful. When indications won't be acting upon that notice for a few years yet. you drive across three provinces each year to get here and spend three or These mines have been likened to a phoenix, which is a four nights, before going back, that is an amazingly powerful draw,” he mythical bird that periodically burns itself to death and emerges said looking at his wife, who, with tears in her eyes, nods in agreement. from the ashes, fresh, beautiful, and ready for another long life. Butler explains that she doesn’t know how much interest there will be in the CD, but it will likely entice writers, researchers, genealogists, This particular phoenix has risen, not once, but twice. museums and people with a connection to the town. She says that over Unfortunately, even with the exploration drift and continued the years she has had a number of people inquire through her web page development of the ramp approved, operations in the mill will (http://www3.bc.sympatico.ca/HerbLake/), asking if she had pictures of cease at the end of September. As a result, the bulk of the mill's various people or landmarks. “To be truthful, I really don’t know what I operating crews and some production related mining personal have, because I don’t have it organized,” she said. will be laid-off, with the potential to be recalled, possibly by next Her collection includes album upon album of Herb Lake photographs, May. It is the company's policy, that any hourly person laid off as as well as images that have been sent to her electronically. Before she of November 1/2003 will receive two weeks pay for every year puts this admirable memorial project together, the photos would all have worked and a retention bonus should their remaining time with to be organized, subject identified, catalogued, scanned, and captioned. “They have all come from family albums of people who either lived in the company be accident and AWOL free. Herb Lake, or were handed down through someone who had,” she said. Even though the mill will close, Kelly says there is a lot of “I’ve started the scanning, but I have to go through them and fix up as (“NEW” on page 6) September, 2004 Page 4 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

(EDITORIAL from page 2) (CANADA DAY from page 1) for this amazing pioneer. Dennis Strom from Creighton and the Legion’s Colour Party at attention and everyone’s hat over their Kathy Joyal from The Pas both recently spoke to me about her. hearts, Second World War Veteran, Eileen Burr raised the flag while Samara Foord led the group in singing the national anthem. Following Dennis thought a marker made from the limestone at the this, Mrs. Burr and Mr. Lamontange cut the country’s birthday cake and Manitoba Marble quarry would be suitable. Kathy wants to, in the Steelworkers handed out free ice cream. the very least, work on getting a marker for the grave, but also The raising of the flag initiates the start of many of the festival’s thinks that Miss Rice’s remains should be moved back to the attractions. The Food Booths, Beer Gardens, Giant Penny Parade, north that she loved so much. I suggested to her that Wekusko’s Cotton Candy booth, Beach Volleyball and Bike Raffle take place Rice Island, or the Herb Town Cemetery should be considered if directly on the heels of this. this move is okayed. At approximately 12:30 p.m., the roar of a chainsaw broke the steady B y the way, this is a list from Linda’s web page of the people din from the crowd and everyone quickly moved over and gathered at that are interred in the cemetery across the lake: Melina Paradis - the beach basketball court. This was where Artist, Roy Budinikas, revealed his proficiency with this tool in carving intricate designs in four 7 Jan 1930; Raymond Ranville - 31 Dec 1930; Norma Carriere - upright spruce logs. One of the finished sculptures was raffled at the end 17 Feb 1936; Colin Rowe - 1938. (Inscription on stone says: Our of Budinikas’ demonstration. The process involved in producing his Baby.); Norman Stoltz - 5 Jan 1940 (Stone reads: Norman Elor artwork is amazing to watch and Snow Lake is lucky to have Budinikas Richard, beloved son of Hilda and Louis Stoltz, born Dec 27, available each year on this day. During the summer, he is employed at 1935.); Mertha Folster - 26 Jan 1940; Anthony Skulmoski - 2 Jul Conservation Manitoba’s Fire Tac Camp at Wekusko Falls. 1940; Mary Carriere - 18 Jul 1943; Mabel Ballard - 26 Jun 1944 Following the carving demonstration, a number of other activities get (Inscription on stone says: Beloved wife of M.C. Ballard. born, underway. Included among these are the Library’s Reading Tent, Bingo, May 14, 1878); Maryleen Bartlett - 22 Jul 1945. (Inscription on the Arts Center’s Fish Pond, the Senior’s Horseshoe Tournament, and stone says: Daughter of George and Earnestine Bartlett, date of the Fire Department’s Kid’s Races. At 2:30 p.m. the community was honoured with the first of two awe- birth is Jan 3, 1938.); Isabelle Geig - 5 Jan 1946. (Stone inspiring cultural performances. The Painted Stone Drum Group out of inscription: date of birth is Dec 27, 1888.); Alexandre Chartrand Norway House, Manitoba set up their drum in the center of the grounds 7 Oct 1949; Pte Harry E. Roberts - 29 Apr 1951. (Inscription on and then gathered around it drumming and chanting in their traditional stone says: 4th Battn C.E.F.); Roger Carriere - 20 Apr 1955; aboriginal fashion. Their harmonies were breathtakingly eerie and along Eugene Bartlett - 12 Aug 1955; Lionel Thivierge - 1955. with the drumbeat, inspired many to tap their toes, slap their legs and a (Inscription on stone says date of birth is 1922.); Telehore Cote - few to even attempt a jig. 21 Jan 1956. At around 3:00 p.m. Stewart Francois, a traditional aboriginal dancer Linda notes on her site: This information has been obtained from Nelson House, Manitoba, took over the area vacated by the drum from the inscriptions on graves, and from the records of both the group and displayed another aspect of first nations culture to this very interested and inspired crowd. Francois has performed all over the world Catholic and Anglican churches. There may be other people and noted that he has danced for people in Asia, Africa, Australia and buried in this graveyard, but the wooden crosses have rotted. South America over the last five years. He added that he was leaving the ~**~ next day to perform in China. Along with ten or so other citizens, I attended a August 12th Between dances, Francois developed an excellent rapport with the Community Policing Workshop, put on by Corporal Bob throng that gathered to watch his display and he explained and answered MacKnight of the local RCMP detachment. Although a number questions about the origins of his costume and customs while joking and of things were discussed and from them several conclusions were talking with the crowd. arrived at, the overriding sentiment of the session was the need This is the second year in a row that the people of Snow Lake have for public education. Education... as in: People have to be aware been treated to various aspects of aboriginal culture. Last year, Hoop of the fact that the person squealing their tires or driving their Dancer Ronny Ranville from the Pas amazed people by fanning 18 hoops while dancing on the stage in the arena. Stephanie Foy, a member quad down your front street isn’t caught when you complain to of the Canada Day Committee, explained that this really got people your neighbour. A person has to complain to the RCMP! talking about first nations’ culture. “They all enjoyed it, but the Personally, I‘m of the opinion that if a person doesn’t want to committee did hear comments that the entertainment was too short, so complain to someone who can do something about it, they really this year we decided that, if we could afford it, we would bring in more don’t have anything to complain about... do they? entertainment of this sort”. ~**~ Once the dance performance had wrapped up and the applause had Is it just me, or are cats running loose becoming a bigger subsided, it was announced over the loud speaker that those wishing to problem than dogs running loose? Over the last two months, I’ve take part in Canoe Jousting could make their way down to the beach had a large white cat digging along the side of my house and area. Once a staple of this summer festival, Canoe Jousting had not been a part of it for a number of years. It was back this year under the crapping under my back step. That is until I phoned and had the supervision of Bob Alcorn and there were quite a few people hit the town drop off one of their cat traps. water before a winner was eventually crowned. The traps are humane and don’t hurt or injure the animal in Before the Fireworks were set off there were a number of other any way. What it does is confine the cat until it can be taken to activities take place at the beach. These included a Choy Li Fut the town yard or picked up by town employees. Following that exhibition by local Black Belt, George Sokal and his son Dylan, a Sand Castle Building contest, a water balloon fight and a draw for a big screen "Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it's time to TV sponsored by the local Lions Club. The TV was won by Wade Boruck and as luck would have it, his wife won the second place prize of September, 2004 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX Page 5

by: Marc at Taylor Bay. He suggested, and council agreed, that the THE CHAMBERS Jackson community be informed of the harsh penalties for this type of Mayor Zamzow opened the August 3rd regular meeting at 6:30 littering. Mayer also asked that the town crew be asked to pick p.m., all councilor members (other than Chrapun) and the rafters at the dump up off the ground and place them on Administrator Dunning were in attendance. some sort of stand. Mayor Zamzow asked that citizens be Under Business Arising From the Minutes, Mr. Dunning informed that there is still much to do and help is needed at the advised that the town garage can be used, until September, as a skateboard park. center for vehicle safeties for both town vehicles and larger ~**~ vehicles owned by the general public. Dunning also informed Deputy Mayor Jackson opened the August 17th regular council that the provincial transportation department is meeting at 6:30 p.m. All council members (other than Mayor reviewing the need for a light at the # 39/# 392 turnoff; however, Zamzow) and Administrator Dunning were in attendance. there has been no decision yet. The Building Inspector's Report was received for filing. Mr. Under Councilor's Reports, Councilor Jackson informed Dunning advised council that Mr. Wilson informed him that he council of a meeting that he held with Squall Lake cabin owners. would no longer be able to fill the position. It is thought that the Before that meeting started, he told cabin owners that he was By-Law Enforcement Officer's position will incorporate the there only as their advocate and that he was not representing duties of the Building Inspector. council (Councilors Mayer, Chrapun, and Mayor Zamzow were Under Councilor's Reports, Councilor Powell gave a verbal not in favor of the council meeting with these cabin owners). report on the Communities In Bloom tour, that took place in Jackson explained that the taxpayers who attended felt that they the morning on August 15th. Powell explained that the judging received little or nothing for the taxes on their Squall Lake lots. was done by two different people from the previous year and that They suggested that a solution would be to take the subdivision it appeared the criteria had also changed. They did look at the out of the town's limits. Failing that, the owners felt that the least general appearance of the town, but also wanted to see the the town could do for them was supply rock that they, community's dump and toured the Sewage Treatment Plant. themselves, could use to better the trail to Squall. After in-depth "They seemed to be more interested in environmental issues," discussion, council decided to have the Foreman take a look at said Powell. Powell stated that a self-revue of the local the trail during the winter, see what it needed, and report back to Communities in Bloom Committee would be undertaken in the council. fall. Under the Mayor's Report, Mayor Zamzow informed council Under the Mayor's Report, Deputy Mayor Jackson updated that he has had several news agencies contact him in regard to those unable to be at the meeting with Berry Bay cabin owners rumours about the New Britannia Mine. He stated that he that he and Councilors Chrapun, Mayer and Powell attended. declined comment until the rumours have either been officially These taxpayers are unhappy with the location that council has substantiated or refuted. Zamzow also updated council on where chosen for the new Wekusko Cabin subdivision. Their concern the funding proposal for a Community Development Officer/ lies in the fact that they don’t want to have to look at cabins Office sits. It is in front of the Provincial Minister and awaits his across the bay from them. They would sooner look at nature. signature. The group felt that council should consider several other The Administrator's Report was received for filing. Mr. locations. Council will address their concern after looking at Dunning informed council that staff are concerned that the other possibilities. The recent RCMP Community Workshop town's radios are out of range when they are working at the was discussed. It was apparent that foot patrols, alcohol abuse, Airport, cabin subdivisions, and Chisel Lake sand pit. Council and client education were priority issues. agreed that five of them should be put on Gene's Telecom's The Administrator's Report was received for filing. Mr. repeater. Dunning apprised council of the number of entries in Dunning reported that Native Communications Incorporated the Taylor Bay Lot Raffle. There are 125. Eighty are from (NCI) representative Hoa Bui had been in town on August 16th. Manitoba, thirty-four from the rest of Canada, and eleven are Bui installed the equipment necessary to bring NCI’s signal to from the states. Councilor Cairns suggested that the museum be Snow Lake. They were on air the next day and their asked to inform visitors of the draw and allow them to enter programming can be found at 96.3 on the FM dial. Dunning using their computer. Dunning also advised that a grant in the advised that Bruce Taylor of Manitoba Hydro was currently amount of $5,197 had been approved by the Ministry of Culture, working on pricing for hydro installation from the proposed Heritage, and Tourism. The grant will be used to construct a new entrance of the Wekusko Cabin subdivision, northeast to the last wheelchair ramp and upgrade the roof and site drainage at the lot. Also mentioned was the fact that letters had been sent out to Lawrie Marsh Community Hall. people who were required to trim their trees, as well as to those In Other Matters, Councilor Cairns said that she had received who were in arrears on their trailer court lot rent. several positive comments about the lot next to the Town Office. Under Correspondence, council okayed a Retirement Living ad She added that the suggestion was made that the same thing for military publications across Canada. Council agreed to should be done to the lot between Sweet Nothings and Forsyth reschedule their Sept. 21st meeting (to Sept. 22) in order to Agency. Councilor Mayer informed council that someone had attend and discuss Telehealth at the next District Health Council recently deposited a load of brush outside the garbage dump gates meeting. and that household garbage had been placed in the brush pile out In Other Matters, Mr. Dunning advised that due to a family September, 2004 Page 6 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

Community consultative meeting a success putting together this year’s project. Despite frequent downpours, each group finished their assignment well within the prescribed time period. STAFF Fourteen clients, partners, and stakeholders, representing the Foy stated that this year’s project was a mobile crane. “The Snow and Herb Lake area met with CpI. Bob Macknight, of teams were to build a crane that could lift and move various the Snow Lake RCMP Detachment in the Snow Lake Seniors Centre at 7:00 on August 12th. The purpose of this Police - Community pieces of scrap from one point to another,” she said. “These scrap Consultative Meeting was to cooperatively determine the community’s objects were of all shapes and sizes and had to be moved and policing priorities and formalize an action plan to monitor and evaluate placed in the same order they were picked up.” The team to move police performance. all pieces within a 20-minute time limit was to be crowned the After some minor introductions and an overview of the process the winner. “The competition was fierce and all teams had a great group would use in establishing the detachment priorities, the meeting showing,” said the Rec. Director. “The Cranes were quite was split into two groups and discussions began. The plan was to different, but each one worked very well, and the pieces of scrap document each group’s policing priorities, as well as where they felt the varied from a barrel, to pieces of culvert and even a bedspring. town would be in three to five years time, before reporting back to the They all certainly tested the agility of each crane.” group as a whole later in the evening. The process went well and delivered a plan that all in attendance The winning team, consisting of Mike Botten Sr., Mike Botten believed would address any of the problems that have and could arise in Jr., Peter Foy and Neal Foy dubbed themselves “Overbuilding”. Snow Lake’s long and promising future. They finished the task with a time of 4:50 minutes. The second The following RCMP - Community priorities will be formalized into place team finished with a time of 8:19 minutes. They called an Action Plan: themselves “Overhaulin” and were made up of Hank Dick, Kalen Drug/AlcohoI Abuse – Police will continue their efforts to educate Stephen and Jacques Cadorette. Third place went to the team of and enforce, with more emphasis being placed upon education, which will be specifically directed towards youths. Foot Patrols - These patrols will be implemented and documented. (“NEW” from page 3) MacKnight advised that to date, one early morning foot-patrol has been maintenance work and other things that have to be done and conducted. It resulted in the location of several youths who were in there will be a small crew of people kept on at the mill for closure possession of open liquor. and through the winter period. "We will end up with a (project Local Traffic Enforcement - Traffic enforcement will be directed wide) workforce of about 90 to go through this hiatus period towards specific problem areas (and during certain hours) that were from October through until next summer," he said. "When full discussed and deemed to be of concern. production comes about in the mine, and the mill fires up, that Parental Responsibility/Education – Even though, to date, police have number will be around 140 or 150." Adding, "It will never be the been disappointed by the lack of interest and participation by parents, 240 - 250 it was in the past when we were milling 2400 tons a they will make an effort to renew their commitment in this regard. Communication - This priority will involve continuing police efforts to day, but still, it will be significant." provide information via local media. They will renew and repeat the New Brit's workforce has been apprised of the mine's new message that people have to get involved by telling police what they have found fortune through front line supervision and Kelly will bring seen or heard. This priority will also be utilized to better inform the them further up to date at quarterly meetings slated to begin late public as to how to best contact the RCMP, particularly in the event of in the week. Certainly, another three years of operation will help an emergency. Additionally, this priority will be utilized to ensure that to quell the stress and uncertainty of the past year. However, for police increase their visibility in the surrounding populated areas, some of the people who have been laid off or elected to leave, the specifically Herb Lake Landing and Anderson/Berry/Taylor Bays. news will surely prove to be frustrating. In reviewing what was accomplished in the meeting, Corporal Kelly states that Kinross are very pleased with how things have MacKnight stated, “The community consultative process is not a new concept; however, it was one that was in need of rejuvenation. I believe turned out locally and have always been cognizant of the effect that, collectively, this is exactly what was accomplished.” He added, “In closure would have on the town and people's lives. "It's nice to see that the orebody has improved dramatically, such that Kinross can now justify the expenditure," said Kelly. He admits that it's Snow Lake’s own junkyard war not going to be a huge moneymaker for them, as New Britannia STAFF In the summer of 2003, Snow Lake’s Recreation is a small fraction of what Kinross is on the whole. "We represent Director, Stephanie Foy, thought that she would seize about 2% of the overall ounces in their yearly production rate," upon a popular idea from a trendy new television series, when he said. "We are a high cost per ounce producer due to our low she mimicked “Junkyard Wars” with her version, the Snow Lake Junkyard War. It proved to be an intriguing and skill-testing event for a number of citizens, so she decided to make it a yearly event. Brian Doak, Bill Salahub, Lawrence Samborski, Brian With the success of the inaugural event behind her, Foy drew (Porky) Hicks, Diana and Glen Bartley and the upon the experience and with it kicked off Snow Lake’s second numerous people who work to keep the recycle bin st annual Junk Yard War at 10:00 am on July 31 at the emptied... community’s nuisance grounds. Three teams of three to four What a fantastic job these people do on the recycling participants donned their rain gear and braved the elements in September, 2004 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX Page 7

by: Becky Life & Truth Ainsworth

Back when the Hilliard family was leaving Snow Lake, the Ainsworth family helped with their move. I remember the day Janet asked if I’d consider taking over as editor of this paper. I responded with something like, “No, I don’t think I’m the person for the job.” Then, lo and behold, along came Marc Jackson who took the baton and has been running with it ever since. Marc, I’ll say publicly here that I’ve been continually impressed with the great job you have done, month after month and year after year. If other readers feel the same way, why not let him know (or maybe you have already)! And now suddenly (seems to me anyway, though we kind of knew it was coming) we are here at the end. I cannot sign off without making sure everyone reading this knows that God their Creator loves them, sent His Son Jesus to earth to make a personal connection possible with us, and desires to be our intimate friend and empower us to live the life (a preface to eternity, actually) he has always had planned for us. Lately I’ve been re-reading C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity. I had recommended it to a neighbor and, as well, we gave a copy last Christmas to Bill, our daughter Lindsey’s flute teacher at Alberta College. (The day I met this character, the words “breathlessly colourful” came to mind.) Anyway, Bill eventually mentioned he was reading the book and “enjoying” it. Recently he told Mr. A. he had finished and was passing it around… Wow. As I write this it is Father’s Day afternoon and I’m thinking of something profoundly moving (to me anyway) that we saw/heard in church this morning. It was a video called “A Father’s Love Letter,” described as “the cry of a Father’s heart from Genesis (first book of the Bible) to Revelation (last book of the Bible)”. A paper copy of the text was made available, thus I can share some with you right now. (Compiled by Barry Adams and we are invited to the interactive website at www.FathersLoveLetter.com) “You may not know me, but I know everything about you… I chose you when I planned creation… I have been misrepresented by those who don’t know me [and sometimes, adds Becky A. by those who do] …it is my desire to lavish my love on you… I offer you more than your earthly father ever could… I love you with an everlasting love…If you seek me with all your heart you will find me… I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine. I love you even as I love my son, Jesus…For in Jesus my love for you is revealed …His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you… I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love… If you receive the gift of my son Jesus you receive me, and nothing will ever separate you from my love again… Come home and I’ll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen… I have always been Father and will always be Father… My question is… will you be my child? I am waiting for you… Love, Your Dad, Almighty God.” If you still wonder where you came from, why you are here, and where you are going, I encourage you to think about the possibility of a Creator, personal and loving and able to do anything at all that He wants to do. One thing He always does is keep a promise. As God stated in the above “letter” (quoted from Deuteronomy 4:29), “If you seek me with all your heart you will find me.”

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. --John 14:27 September, 2004 Page 8 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

What Ever Happened to... Tom Taylor

THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

Volume 1, Issue 2 SNOW LAKE, MANITOBA October, 2004 Stepping into Snow Lake’s past New boiler for J.H. Kerr School

With passage of the Frontier School Division’s 2004-05 budget STAFF A tour of the Snow Lake Mining Museum begins just as a trip STAFF underground would, tagging in at the wicket. The guide on came word that money had been allotted for the replacement this day is Brett Donais. This personable and talkative young man ex- of one of two heating boilers at the division’s Joseph H. Kerr School. pertly weaves his way through the museums expansive and impressive Officials at the school received word early in the year that the Public exhibits, seldom straying from his well-rehearsed script other than to Schools Finance Board (PSFB) had approved $120,000 to outfit the answer a question or offer an opinion. At the wicket he explains that building with the new boiler. each mine worker, or in this instance museum visitor, has their own After receiving PSFB approval, facilities personnel in Frontier’s numbered tag and the blast at the end of the shift isn’t set off, nor does Winnipeg Divisional office initiated the project’s engineering process by the tour end, until all tags are back on the board and each person is hiring Alliance Engineering Services Inc. to commence as well as oversee accounted for. the undertaking. Alliance’s Senior Engineer, Art Gossen was assigned From the wicket, Donais, 17, leads the tour to an area just to the left the task of readying the tender documents and specifications for this of the tag board and draws attention to a bank of lockers with chain new addition to the school’s physical plant. baskets and hooks along side them. “This,” he explains, “is where the The tender was put together within a month and went out in the later workers change out of their street clothes into their mine gear, and in part of May. Approximately three weeks later, the contract was awarded turn where they hang that gear to dry at the shift’s end.” to Mikkelsen Coward, a mechanical and electrical contractor out of Past the shifter’s desk, the group stops to look over an area with a Winnipeg. display of hardhats, lights, and batteries. Donais advises that this is After some initial demolition work by the school’s personal, where mine workers picked up their light and battery from the charger Mikkelsen Coward tradesmen were on site during the week of they placed it on at the end of the previous shift. “The charge would last September 13 – 17 and cut the existing #2 boiler and auxiliary piping up a full twelve hours,” he says with a smile. “Workers would want to be in order to precipitate its removal from the school’s boiler room. sure that charging their battery was the one thing they would remember The outgoing boiler is a Saskatoon, 30 hp, low pressure, fire tube, to do. It gets pretty dark underground.” which was built and installed in the early 1960’s. Even though it was the Moving past the map table, with its overabundance of diagrams show- school’s main heating boiler when it was installed, it had been used ing the various stages of development in the numerous mines, which (SEE “BOILER” on page 3) have fueled the local economy throughout the years, the tour stops in front of a small desk with an even smaller nondescript computer sitting on it. Donais says that it was the first one ever used in HBM&S’s Snow Students clean shoreline Lake operations. One marvels at its simplicity and considers what a time saving piece of equipment it must have been back when it was intro- STAFF: Doing their part for the ecological betterment of the duced. lake this little community is situated on; Snow Lake’s From here we move on to an arrangement of explosives, which are grade 9 – 12 students recently took part in the Great Canadian used in the industry. Donais explains how they are loaded into holes Shoreline Clean-up. drilled by mine workers, wired up and set off at the end of each shift. Finishing that explanation, he ushers us around the corner to show how Lynore Spruyt, the Vice-Principal of Frontier School Division’s the drilling is accomplished. We view a life size and lifelike mockup of a J.H. Kerr School, explained that students were given from 2:00 miner drilling in an underground raise and another of a stope. In addi- p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the first day of fall to remove garbage and tion to these, there are separate displays of drills ranging from jacklegs to other undesirable objects from sensitive aquatic habitat along the stopers and the bits that accompany them. shores of Snow Lake. The next exhibit is a collection of mine rescue equipment and an “The students cleaned along the east shore of the lake and the abundance of trophies and plaques won by local teams. Many of the shoreline along the Sunset Bay Subdivision boat launch,” said trophies were presented to Cliff Harris, who was part of and captained Spruyt. “In addition to cleaning up and bagging the garbage they HBM&S’s team during the 1970’s, ‘80’s and ‘90’s. Also part of this found, they had to keep a written log of every article that was display is a number of devices used to test air quality underground. Donais mentions that long ago mines used caged canaries to test air removed from the shore.” quality. “If the canary dropped, this meant the air was bad and that the The objective of the cleanup is to raise awareness and change worker should get out of the area as quickly as possible,” he said. attitudes about litter and aquatic garbage. In addition to this, the Close to the mine rescue display sits an old Ingersoll-Rand steam driv- data that is collected in the process will eventually be used to help en mine hoist. The hoist, which is thought to be close to 100 years old, change government legislation and tailor various conservation once took men underground and hoisted ore from the Ferro Mine. The projects. Ferro is a former gold producer, located three miles to the east of the The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Center is the main abandoned community of Herb Lake on the east shore of Wekusko sponsor and originating agency for the cleanup; however, there Lake. The hoist’s owner, Cranberry Portage Prospector and Geologist (SEE SHORE on page 3) (SEE MUSEUM on page 3) October, 2004 Page 2 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

E D IT O R IA L A Lakeside Perspective by: Barrie Taylor n late August, I noted two glaringly obvious examples of why a person should think before they open their mouth, particularly When are you old? When you are four years old, your big sister who is when there is someone taking notes. nine years old "is old". When you are nine, your brother who is 18 "is The first came after the Liberal MP for Mississauga Erindale, Carolyn old". When you are 18, your good friend who is 30 "is old". When you Parrish, slammed the US government when she referred to missile de- are 30, your uncle who is 50 "is old". When you are 50, your mother who fence supporters as a "coalition of the idiots," during an interview. I’m is 70 "is old". not saying Parrish should watch what she says, because I think she does. My view is; Regardless what the rest of the world might think, you are That was exactly what she wanted to say, and it no doubt received the old when you feel old and not a moment before. reaction that she expected it would. The person I’m talking about in this instance is National Citizens' Coalition Vice-President, Gerry Nicholls. In a statement made to the press shortly after Parrish’s brutally honest backhand, he called Parrish Dear Editor: “an intolerant anti-American zealot” and said that she should be made to I just wanted to say congratulations on continuing with the paper, apologize. He added that “So far, (Prime Minister) Martin's response to albeit it is under a different name! I was very excited to learn that we her brainless remarks has been tepid, to say the least.” will be able to carry on with a connection to Snow Lake. I tell so many Wait a minute. Parrish, an elected representative of the people who is people out here about the town and the people in it, I am sure I sound noted for being extremely popular in her riding, tells a small anti-missile- like a broken record. defence rally: "We are not joining the coalition of the idiots. We are But Snow Lake has formed some wonderful memories for me and I joining the coalition of the wise." And she is “Brainless”. She calls am happy that I can paint wonderful pictures for others to envision. missile defence shield supporters idiots, he calls her brainless. What is I always knew you were a hard worker and a great talker! I have no that… fighting fire with fire? How did this guy ever get to be a VP of idea how many hours you spend putting this paper together, but you anything making a boneheaded statement like that? Whoops! need to know that you and all those who contribute are truly appreciat- The second example evolved from the Jim Sulkers story out of Winni- ed. The new name is awesome, and really suits the times and the peg. Sulkers, you might remember, was the guy who lay dead in his town. Congratulations to Marc as editor and all contributors on a job apartment for two years before anyone discovered that he’d expired. well done. Keep up the great work! There was some controversy over how much mail Sulkers received over Wanda Hawman BSW RSW the two-year period and how the lack of someone picking up the mail ~**~ should have at least twigged the carrier’s curiosity. It was reported in the Dear Editor: Winnipeg Free Press that a Canada Post spokesman said that contrary to I was talking with my mom, (once again) on the telephone today. reports by his neighbours, Sulkers only received about 15 letters over the When I asked my obvious question, "Is there anything new going on in two-year period. He added that it was the corporation's policy that when town?" She said, "Yes!" and then told me about how you had restarted mailboxes are full, letter carriers are to empty them and alert their super- the paper, and that it was under a new name. I am so excited to be able visor who, in this instance, would contact the condo owner. But because to read about what is going on in town instead of relying on my mom to Sulkers didn't receive enough mail, that didn’t happen. The Free Press remember all the news. also reported that a family member said there was a note from Canada A year ago, I was living in Brandon and thought The Underground Press Post slipped under the door of Sulkers' suite dated in the previous year was a great way to keep up with town events, and have a little bit of informing him that his mailbox was full. The story went on to say that home with me while away. Now that I am in Boynton Beach, Florida I this family member – a niece of Sulkers’ – was very upset at how the don't think there could be anything better. matter was handled by Canada Post. My host family has also taken an interest in the paper. They don't Imagine that, the dead man’s niece was upset with how her uncle’s really understand what a mining town is like; actually they don't under- death was handled by Canada Post when all this letter carrier did was stand at all. deliver his mail. Should it have been up to he or she as a postal worker Now that the site is up, I have been showing them all the articles and to take an active interest in the man’s life… whether he was home or not the pictures. They find everything so fascinating, with being able to read home, alive or dead? It wasn’t like they were related. about the past, present, and the future. I believe that they are getting a ~**~ better understanding of where I come from and how important it is to The change of this paper’s name from The Underground Press to The me. Lake-Land Phoenix will no doubt take some getting used to. Particularly Thank you so much, this paper is a big part of my home… that I get to by me, I still refer to it as The Underground Press. However, there are have here with me. some who have a harder time with it than others. Case in point. Sheena Radford I was in the hotel for coffee at the beginning of September, the day after the first issue came out. One of the old deaf guys I usually have coffee with was asking what the story was with New Britannia. Doing a THE Lake-Land PHOENIX is a monthly, independent newspaper, published in little promoting, I told him he could read about it in a news story on the Snow Lake, Manitoba. front page of the new paper that just came out. He said, “New paper, EDITOR: Marc W. Jackson which paper is that?” I told him, “The Lake-Land Phoenix.” Being an old Correspondence: P.O. Box 490, Snow Lake, MB., R0B 1M0 deaf guy, he of course said, “What?” I repeated, “The Lake-Land Phoenix.” Phone: (204)358-2887 He again replied, “What?” So I said it again, only this time a little softer, email: [email protected] because I like screwing around with these guys when they don’t have http://www.mts.net/~mjaxon their hearing aids in. Anyway, this time he said, “Oh, the Leg-Lamb ALL NEWS... NO FILLER (SEE EDITORIAL on page 6) October, 2004 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX Page 3

(MUSEUM from page 1) summer has been busy and that it’s not only the kids who are impressed Dan Ziehlke, donated it to the museum several years ago and the muse- with this little piece of Snow Lake’s history. “The adults are really im- um staff has done an excellent job in refurbishing the hoist to the point pressed with the museum too,” says the guide. “I’ve even had some of where it now looks as if it could easily be put back into service. them try to tip me.” On the wall directly above the hoist, hangs a recent donation, a wide and varied collection of photographs depicting the life of area pioneer, (“BOILER” from page 1) George Bartlett. “The display was donated by Mr. Bartlett’s family,” sparingly in recent years and took on the role of back-up after a large Donais said. “I call it the ‘George Bartlett Wall of Fame’,” he adds. addition to the building in 1979 increased the heating load, making it George Bartlett came to Northern Manitoba in 1912 and the Herb/ too great for the Saskatoon to handle. Snow Lake area in 1929. Over his years in the north, he built roads, A spokesperson for the school said that due to the age and low trapped and traded in furs; freighted, was a fire ranger, operated a stop- horsepower of this existing boiler it was unable to keep up under full ping place, store, and a fish camp. He also did a bit of prospecting. A load and it was becoming increasingly harder to purchase parts for the landing area on Wekusko Lake was named after him (Bartlett’s Landing) burner mechanism. and his son Russell, grandchildren and great-grandchildren still live in The other existing boiler in the school’s plant is a Cleaver Brooks, 60 Snow Lake. hp, low pressure, fire tube. Installed in 1966, it is capable of handling Donais ushers the tour to the front of a large machine that appears to the building’s full heating load and is still in very good condition. Once be a snowmobile. He says that it was a forerunner to that and is called a the new boiler has been installed, it is expected that it and this Cleaver Bozak. With its wooden skis and boxlike appearance it would most Brooks fire tube will share the heating load on a scheduled basis. certainly be outrun and outmaneuvered by today’s sleds, but there likely The new boiler is also a Cleaver Brooks, 60 hp, low pressure unit; isn’t one around that could haul what this behemoth could. Close by however, it is a flexible water tube design. The boiler was built in our guide shows us another vehicle once used by an old prospector. It is Milwaukee at the beginning of September and supplied to the contractor a homemade contraption that appears to be part car, part swamp buggy by R.G. Sales out of Winnipeg. and part boat. It apparently could have easily adapted to any environment the driver encountered. (SHORE from page 1) The next part of the tour takes us through the many mines (and ore are a number of other organizations involved with this worth- samples from them) in the community’s historic past. Donais points out while objective. The TD Bank, Encorp Pacific Canada, Waste an amazing picture snapped at precisely the moment of ignition on a Management Canada, The Ocean Conservancy, and The World massive blast that took place in the late 1970’s during construction of HBM&S’s Stall Lake Concentrator. Wildlife Fund of Canada are the others. From here we wander down a long display of underground machinery. Spruyt reports that on the whole Snow Lake’s shoreline is rela- There are trammers and muck cars, a Eimco mucking machine, a tugger, tively clean; however, the piece or type of garbage that was most a slusher, and a massive two boom Long Tom drifter. Going out the prevalent on the local shores were candy wrappers and plastic back door of the museum, Donais points out some of the larger displays, bags. “There were 320 wrappers found and 180 bags,” said too big to be housed within the confines of the museum. There is a Spruyt. “There were also 138 cigarette butts and 112 pieces of cage, which was attached by cable to the hoist and used to transport men building material,” she added. underground. A skip used in the same fashion, only to bring the ore These findings differ slightly from the log sheets handed in and waste rock to surface. There is the first ore truck ever used under- nationally in 2003. Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup litera- ground in Snow Lake and a couple of sheave wheels that served years of service in area headframes. ture states that cigarette butts were the most common item found Back inside, Donais guides us to the museum’s newest display, a gold during that cleanup. That literature also advised that butts are of panning exhibit. It is an impressive piece, made out of wood. It has a particular concern because the filters are made up of cellulose recirculating system that pumps water down a sluice into a bed of gravel acetate; a thermoplastic used in the manufacture of photo film. at the exhibit’s base. After paying a minimal $2.00 fee, patrons are given This means that they take between two to five years to degrade a gold pan and shown how to gather gravel in the pan and swirl water and when they do, they release toxic chemicals in the process. until the lighter sand and gravel is washed away and all that is left is Other aquatic garbage causes problems with wildlife entangle- gold. The shiny stuff shows up in every pan of gravel you pick up and ment, as in the case of six pack rings and fishing line, or can re- although even a blind geologist would tell you it isn’t really gold, every- sult in lead poisoning and death from an animal’s ingestion of one who tries it gets the idea, and it is an enjoyable experience. “Kids just love it,” says Donais. “They are all just amazed when the gold shows fishing weights or lead shot from guns. up in their pans.” One other interesting item from the 2003 cleanup was the fact With the tour winding down, our guide takes us back to the front of that over 20,000 volunteers picked up more than 49,000 kilo- the museum and hands over a miniature version of the pan used in the grams of garbage from the country’s shorelines. Surely the gold display. The little keepsake has a couple of the aforementioned amount of garbage picked up will increase in proportion with the pieces of gold in it and an inscription that reads “Panning for Gold in number of people volunteering to help. Let’s all hope that even- Snow Lake.” tually, because of this program and others like it, people become As the tour ends, Donais points out the abundance of tourism litera- better educated and both those numbers fall. All in all, it is nice ture and maps that the museum stocks. He also calls attention to the to see Snow Lake students doing their part. numerous articles, magazines, and pictures in the front, which help to convey the rich history of this little northern town. “I’ll even tell them where the best local fishing spots are, if they ask,” he smiles. "It's a very sobering feeling to be up in space and realize that Donais says that he has worked for the museum for the past two one's safety factor was determined by the lowest bidder on a months. It is a summer job that the grade 11 student says he would government contract." -- Alan Shepherd (apollo astronaut) gladly take again if it was offered to him next year. He explains that the October, 2004 Page 4 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX tainment. The “OTTO” Review Halloween is just around the corner and with it comes the Annual Preschool Halloween party, Haunted House, Snow by: Mary-Ann Otto Lake’s Most Haunted House contest and the Halloween Social. The Preschool Halloween party is always held on the same Usually, a big part of my summer is spent on the beach with a day that local kids go out trick or treating and as a result, this good book. Though this summer, my reading was done on the year it will be held on the day that the Town designates as couch, under a blanket. Thank goodness for the library. Vivian Halloween (likely October 29th). If this date looks strange to Bennett kept me stocked with best sellers, murder mysteries and you, it’s because (for as long as I can remember) Halloween in others all summer. She knows what I like and is quick to tell me Snow Lake is always held on a weekday. I didn’t realize until when one of my favorite authors has a new book out. This was just recently, that this is common only to Snow Lake. the case with this month’s review. Alex Kava’s latest book “One Snow Lake’s Most Haunted House contest will be judged on False Move” kept me up late as it was hard to put down. the evening of October 28th. To enter, simply decorate your Jared Barnett has spent the last five years in jail for murder. yard and have the lights turned on after 5pm. The top three When his lawyer gets him out on a technicality and Jared is re- winners will be awarded a basket of goodies. leased, Assistant District Attorney Grace Wenninghoff and Of- The Haunted House will be open to the public on Thursday, ficer Tommy Pakula can hardly believe it and fear the worst. October 28, 2004. This scary experience is held in the community hall and is not for the faint of heart. This year it will fea- Jared’s sister Melanie and her son, Charlie have been living a ture some new and improved special effects. quiet life of petty crime for the past five years while Jared has The Halloween Social has been a tradition of the Snow Lake been in jail. Jared has the perfect plan for a big score and needs Fire Dept. for the past couple of years. Their decorations and Mel and Charlie’s help. When the bank robbery goes bad and silent auction are the finishing touches of a great night for one of the victim’s wounds look characteristically familiar, adults wanting to get into the Halloween mood. Grace’s fears are confirmed. For more information on these, or any other recreational Alex Kava will keep you turning pages right up until this novel’s questions, please contact me. shocking end. “ACCORDING TO It’s always easier for me to pick a book from the library when by: Rick someone else has recommended it. Here’s a list of some that I RICK” Leclair really enjoyed. “Just One Look” by Harlen Coben “Tea Rose” by Jennifer Donnelly “Wouldn't you know it?” I find myself repeating that phrase a “Tell No One” by Tony Strong lot lately. “First Wife” by Diana Diamond No more articles! (No more pressure). “Wouldn't you know “My Sister’s Keeper” by Jody Picoult it,” Phoenix Jackson comes out of no where and his paper is up Enjoy! and running again. I move to Flin Flon into a new (older) home and “wouldn't you know it,” my basement is flooded by an over- due water tank. I finally get some time off work, and “wouldn't REC. REVIEW by: Stephanie Foy you know it,” it hasn't stopped raining since. Stabback thinks he is writing the last article and completely trashes Wooley and What’s Happening This Fall? Guspodarchuk and “wouldn't you know it” (boy is he in trou- The leaves are changing, the air is chilly, and many fall pro- ble). Finally, this is the year that my Boston Bruins will bring the grams are just getting off the ground. New for this year will be Stanley Cup home, and “wouldn't you know it,” STRIKE! And it the addition of the Scrapbooking Club and Choy Lee Fut in- goes on and on. struction. Most programs that were offered last year are also With the lay offs at New Brit, Snow Lake has lost some kids. available again this year. For a complete list of what is offered This will affect a lot of different clubs. No matter how inactive on the recreation front within the community, please call or you are, directly or indirectly this will affect your community, and email the Recreation office. ultimately the communities around you. For example, the skat- Movie nights at the Community Hall have been improved. ing rink is not opening until the end of October or November Twice a month, a double feature will be held at the hall. The 1st. Last year the "AA" Bantams from Flin Flon, Thompson, and early movie will target a younger audience and the later movie will be aimed towards teens and adults. Also for those interest- The Pas met in Snow Lake for a Saturday tournament in October ed, movie gift certificates are available at the Recreation Office. before the season started. The Cranberry Portage high school Movies being featured this month include “Shrek 2”, “ Raising team would also come in for practices. All these teams paid for Helen”, “ A Cinderella Story” and “ The Terminal”. ice time. So, why is the rink not opening at the usual time again? Muddy Rivers will be performing October 3,2004 at 10:30 at Hockey kids playing out of town (which you should get used to the community Hall. Their performance will be part of an in- hearing) this year are: Scott Tyschinski and Brad Selkirk with terdenominational church service. Thompson’s "AAA” Midget Northstars, Rick Stabback and Riley The Christian Center will be having their Annual Fall Supper Eastman with Nelson House’s Junior “B” team, and Lem Ran- at the Community Hall on October 16, 2004. This supper is dall, and Joel Jackson with the O.C.N Junior “A” Blizzard. open to all members of the community and features live enter- (SEE”SPORTS” on page 6) October, 2004 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX Page 5 THE CHAMBERS by: Marc feels both he and Snow Lake could help each other considerably. Jackson Crowdis plans to arrive in Snow Lake on September 5 – 6, and will stay Mayor Zamzow opened the September 7, 2004 regular meeting of Council at approximately one week. 6:30 pm, with all councilors (other than Cairns and Jackson) and Assistant Ad- Council went in camera to discuss staffing, before adjourning. ministrator Erickson in attendance. ~**~ Under Business Arising From The Minutes, council confirmed that their Mayor Zamzow opened the September 21, 2004 regular meeting of Council next regular meeting would be held on Wednesday, September 22 in order to at 6:30 pm, with all councilors and Assistant Administrator Erickson in at- facilitate all members’ attendance at a District Health Council meeting where the tendance. prospect of bringing Telehealth services to Snow Lake will be discussed. It was Mike Kelly, the General Manager of the New Britannia Mine appeared as a decided that the issue of a By-law Officer would be discussed later in the meeting delegation before council. Kelly wished to update council on the future oper- under the Assistant Administrator's report. Council was advised that the Herit- ations of the mine. He advised that the mine was close to beginning their age Society has been contacted and is contemplating action in regard to the hiatus period, which will last until approximately July of 2005. The mill will th placement of a marker on Kathleen Rice’s, Minnedosa, Manitoba grave. shut down on September 30 ; however operations will continue underground The Recreation Committee Report was received for filing. Council agreed with a minimal crew, stockpiling ore on surface. An overhaul of equipment with the committee’s recommendation that in order to insure that all keys to and infrastructure will begin, in addition to continuation of a 900-foot explo- the Lawrie Marsh Hall are turned in when people leave town, there will be a ration drift. At present they are in 300 ft. on this drift and expect to have a deposit required when they are picked up. If keys aren’t turned in, the deposit diamond drill in place by mid-October. He explained that he expects that the will go towards paying to have the locks re-pinned. Council also agreed with the mine will produce 40 – 42,000 ounces of gold in 2005; which should increase recommendation user fees at the hall and arena remain unchanged for the to 60- 70,000 ounces in 2006. Kelly added that there is potential for surface coming season. exploration in the future. The meeting went in-camera at this point to discuss Under Delegates Reports, Councilor Chrapun advised that the Ambulance the town/company funding agreement. After coming out of in-camera, the Committee presently has eleven qualified drivers, nine of which are active. The meeting continued. committee is still awaiting documentation from the province regarding the The Assistant Administrator’s Report was received for filing. Mrs. ownership of the ambulance. Additionally, Chrapun informed council that Erickson reports that Glen Otto has been hired to finish up Aqua-flo there would be changes to Family Resource Center staff, due to current person- and water meter installations. He has also relocated a number of meter nel relocating to other communities. Councilor Mayer reported that the next reading pads. She states that he is doing very well and she is pleased Greenstone meeting was scheduled for the coming week. with his paperwork. Erickson noted that a bylaw received from Lynn Under The Mayor’s Report, Mayor Zamzow relayed Pearl Doak’s thanks to Lake governing outside furnaces is silent on the height of stacks. Coun- Council for their recognition of her 85th Birthday. Also in relation to Mrs. cil asked that other municipalities be polled for bylaws governing these Doak, Zamzow stated that the water leak in front of her home appeared to be furnaces. Erickson apprised council of the possibility of hosting the worsening. It was explained that the Public Works crew was scheduled to Norman Vehicle Extrication Show and Share in May of 2005. The Fire excavate it on Thursday, September 9th. The Mayor reported that the Norman Chief has asked that the Town sponsor a reception for those taking part. Regional Development Corporation plans to hold their semi-annual general Council agreed to do this. Mrs. Erickson informed council that there meeting in The Pas on the weekend of September 10th, and the Norman Regional are a number of residences in the community, which are in arrears with Health Authority is holding the official opening of the Snow Lake Health Cen- their water and garbage bills. Council instructed her to send letters to ter’s Personal Care wing on September 24th. Zamzow advised that the New Bri- all of them and instruct the Public Works crew to shut the water off to tannia Mine will be continuing with an exploration and development plan. any of these residences that haven’t paid in full by October 20, 2004. General Manager Mike Kelly will attend the next council meeting and bring The crew is also to be instructed to dig and install curb stop shut offs at council up to date on their plans. In relation to this, the Mayor informed any residences (in arrears) without them. Council also asked that the council that he would be giving a CBC interview regarding the mines status. Assistant Administrator contact the RCMP and ask them to ticket any Zamzow also noted that current records for the Brookside Cemetery need to be vehicle with a lapsed registration parked on town streets. updated. Council discussed how to mark plots more effectively. They are In other matters, Councilor Jackson asked: that back lanes be graded, considering a system of numbering. whether joining Taylor and Berry Bay subdivisions had ever been consid- The Assistant Administrator’s Report was received for filing. Mrs. Erickson ered and if gravel could be placed and spread near the gate at the dump. was instructed to contact the Canadian Forces Newspaper Association and The lanes will be graded right away; the Foreman explained that there place an ad for one month, in all publications. Erickson advised council that has been too much rain lately to do this sooner. Councilor Mayer said there are three applications for the position of by-law officer. Council decided that extending the Berry Bay subdivision to meet up with Taylor Bay had to discuss the matter further in-camera. been looked at in the past, but the area is too rocky for lots and area Under correspondence, an email from Casey Crowdis addressed to Mayor Zam- residents didn’t want the traffic associated with the circle route. Gravel zow was received for filing. Mr. Crowdis is a filmmaker from Oklahoma who will be spread at the dump. Councilor Powell stated that in a recent states he is currently working on a variety of projects ranging from narrative conversation with someone from the Snodrifters Club, the idea of win- feature-length and short films, to documentary-style features covering an array of ter testing snowmobiles came up. Powell asked what council thought of topics. He wished to discuss information about two upcoming projects, the pursuing this prospect with a few manufacturers. Council thought the Snow Lake/New Britannia Mine documentary and a Snow Lake tourism pack- idea was good and the majority felt Greenstone could look into this for age. Crowdis’ email stated that the focus of his proposed documentary would the town. Powell also asked that a further letter go to the Highways be on human experience and endurance and it would attempt to give an under- department asking about progress on a light at the junction of #39 and standing of how people cope with the struggles of life. #392. Council decided that a separate file will be set up and copies of The filmmaker’s other project involves a proposed tourism package for Snow all outgoing correspondence will be deposited in it, so that council mem- Lake. He states that his team is comprised of a professional graphic designer bers may check on letters that have been posted. Councilor Cairns and photographer, in addition to their video production capabilities. He states asked about progress on Community Adjustment funding. The Mayor that they are capable of creating quality promotional videos, developing web- stated that it is still in government hands, but he will check on it. Coun- sites, literature, and brochures, all for relatively low costs. Adding, that he cil went in-camera to discuss staffing and matters in their preliminary knows how Snow Lake is actively trying to strengthen its tourism program and stages. The meeting adjourned at 10:20 p.m. October, 2004 Page 6 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

by: Clarence Fisher ence very few troubles. This is actually one of Opera’s greatest Tech Talk strengths, coming already set-up and ready to access video, audio, and animation files online. The one main drawback with Secure Browsing Opera is that it can cost. Like all of the other browsers mentioned Last summer, the U.S department of Homeland Security did here, Opera is available as a free download, but every time you something they have not done in the few years they have exist- use it, a banner ad will flow across the top of the interface. To get ed. In cooperation with a few other arcane departments of the rid of this ad, simply throw down $39 U.S. and the company will U.S. government (Computer Emergency Readiness Team), give you a keycode to make the ads disappear. We pay for al- Homeland Security issued a warning to users of personal com- most all other types of software, so why not pay for a top quality puters that they might want to consider using software other browser as well? than Microsoft’s Internet Explorer to browse the Internet. None of these browsers will guarantee you absolutely safe, Very interesting. Last year, responding to countless complaints secure browsing, and you will still be susceptible to download- regarding the security of their products, Bill Gates himself said ing a virus through email, but using them, hackers will be unable that he was moving security towards being the main job and to directly download code straight onto your machine while you concern his company was going to tackle. Now the U.S. govern- are online. They’re worth a look. ([email protected]) ment is recommending that personal computer users who use Internet Explorer (IE) as their main tool to surf the Internet (by (“SPORTS” from page 4) some reports, as many as 95% of computer users) should be “Shoeless” Joel Jackson is an interesting story. Joel played for looking for other software. Waywayseecappo's Junior “A” team last year. At this year’s camp, Malicious code, Trojan horses, and viruses of all types are ris- ing dangerously around the globe. They are costing billions of he was released. Anyone who has been cut by any team, in any dollars per year in lost productivity and computer repairs. The sport, at any level, knows that this is not a happy time! However, latest large-scale virus, originating out of Russia, took advantage to his credit and with his own tenacity and support from his bud- of an IE security hole to download a virus and a keylogger pro- dy Lem, he managed to get to O.C.N.'s camp. Joel made the gram to computers. This happened when users simply visited team and signed a card a couple of weeks back. Oh ya, and just an infected website. Microsoft has not issued a true update for IE as a matter of note, Wayway is a perennial last place team. for several years, and the constant release of security patches are O.C.N. has been a first place team for four or five seasons obviously not working. Just as with agriculture, when a single now. Maybe it should be “Phoenix” Joel Jackson! type of plant takes over an area, called a monoculture, it is very susceptible to disease. So what are the options for browsers? As usual, owners of Mac computers face few worries. With Apple retaining about a 5% market share, few people are going out of their way to write The Communities in Bloom Committee… viruses for Macs. As far as browsers go, Mac users have a few Hard work and some fantastic displays from this horde options, IE being one of them. Otherwise, Apple has produced of horticulturists. (Green) Thumbs up to you all. I’d cer- its own neat and slick browser called Safari. Its built in features, tainly give you five blooms for all you accomplished this such as a search engine right in the browser itself, are beginning past year… hell, I’d give you six! MJ to be copied by other companies. The main browser I use for my Mac was developed in Japan by a small company called Shiira. Shiira is much like Safari, only it’s a smaller download, more (EDITORIAL from page 2) easily customized, and faster overall. If you are looking for Peach.” I said, “Ya, that’s right.” something different, it is definitely worth a try. ~**~ People using IE and Windows machines have numerous choic- Starting next month, Cathy Stabback will share the space from her es as well, they just need to be searched for. The most promising “Looking back through the eyes of…” column with a newcomer most two of these are Mozilla’s latest entry titled Firefox, and a brows- readers will know, Kent Wood. Woody’s column will appear bimonthly er widely used in Europe called Opera. (as will Cathy’s) and is to be titled, “Woodchips”. Kent states he’ll touch Mozilla is a small company spun off of the dying Netscape, upon the curiosity of human existence and try to keep it relative to Snow which is now owned by AOL. It is open-source and always un- Lake. Should be a good one. Also, Joan Currie’s “Inside out” isn’t with der development. Firefox is amazing. With a slick, fast feel, us this month. It will be back in November. Mozilla has studied Apple’s Safari browser and learned a lot ~**~ I had to smile, reading that lonesome Provincial Liberal Leader, Dr. about ease of use from it. Firefox has built in tabbed browsing, a Jon Gerrard gave the Provincial government grades on a report card that customizable interface with a number of different skins available he recently issued . Wow, nothing above a “D”. He’s a tough marker. I for download, and a built in search bar on the interface. Addi- wonder what mark his provincial party would give him on his ability to tionally, it is small, making it a much faster download then IE. get them elected to government? And if that unlikely event ever came Along with this, Mozilla is also offering Thunderbird, its email about, I wonder how the Liberals would look on a report card in their software for free. second mandate? No, that’s a little too far fetched to even wonder A strong second option for Windows users is Opera. This about. small company holds a large part of the European browser mar- ~**~ ket and is used by up to 50% of the web surfers in some coun- My Brother-in-law Claude East turned 50 on September 23rd. My wife tries. It is small, elegant, and widely used. With fast download Leone read Barrie’s column to him over the phone and he felt better. I times and compatiblity with any online content, you will experi- say, why are you feeling better Claude? Think about it, you’re 50! October, 2004 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX Page 7

For Those Who Believe by: Becky Ainsworth Glen Racine So here we are (Marc and company), back again. This is one of Former Snow Lake resident, Glen Racine passed away in early Sep- life’s little surprises, no doubt about it. You’ll see a couple of tember. His Memorial Service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday new names/titles in this paper… but we’ll all continue to enjoy September 15th at the Catholic Church in Deloraine, Manitoba. that same feisty and capable editor. Now for those who want me In lieu of flowers, those wishing to may make a donation in Glen’s to clarify this column’s new title, I certainly will. honour to the charity of their choice. ~**~ I think it is safe to say that we all believe in something. I think Franklin “David” Highfield it is also safe to assume that some things are true and worth be- David Highfield Jr. passed away at the age of 39, on Monday, Septem- lieving in and others are not. For instance, we could choose to ber 13th in Winnipeg Manitoba. A Memorial Service was held at 2:00 believe that the world is flat (as many in the past have believed), p.m. on Friday, September 17th at the Christian Center in Snow Lake. and therefore we might live in fear of somehow at some point Pastor Ken Neufeld officiated. possibly falling off the edge. One thing this indicates is that it’s In lieu of flowers, those wishing to may make a donation in David’s not so rare or unusual for a person to be misguided, yet sincere. honour to the Crohns Foundation or the Canadian Cancer Society. That brings me to sharing a bit (for those who don’t know me) about my own background, before finally wrapping up with an explanation of this column as promised. Looking Back at the... The fact is, I spent most of my youth choosing not to believe by: Cathy Stabback what my parents taught and hoped I would. This rebellious Nothern Lights Club streak caused me a lot of trouble, for which I can only blame my The Northern Lights Club was organized in February 1948. own willful (and ignorant) self. My sweet and longsuffering The club’s organizational meeting was held in the temporary mother (now 75 years old and as good to me as ever) says she lost dining hall with 49 members present. The executive at the time control of this daughter at the tender age of 14 months. Daddy, was: Mrs. G. C. Lipsey (Honourary President), Mrs. F. R. Green on the other hand (and guess who I inherited that strong will (President), and Mrs. R. Venables (Secretary-Treasurer). The from), insisted that he was the head of the family and would be purpose of this group was to organize other groups that would in control. Yeah, we did have some, er, interesting times. Again, provide activities and entertainment for the people of the com- God’s grace has been at work, and this man and I have now loved munity. Some of these other groups were the Bridge Club, Dra- each other dearly for decades. ma Club, Book Club, and the Social Sewing and Handicraft Insisting that I could run my own life without anyone’s help, Club. The first meeting of the Northern Lights Bridge Club was thank you very much, eventually lead me to trouble I could no held in the spring of 1948. The group met on the first and third longer ignore. About to enter my third year of university (way Monday of each month. In October 1949, it was decided that back in Wisconsin) the powers-that-be insisted that I decide on a each member would hold one meeting in their home. In 1950, major. Well! Needing something to base my life on, for starters, the meetings moved to the Community Hall. They were then I began investigating various belief systems, otherwise known as held on the first and third Thursday of each month. Each mem- “religions.” I don’t know about you, but “religion” was never a ber was still responsible for a meeting and the club representa- very appealing word for me -- personal relationship with someone tive appointed hostesses to provide refreshments that were who was credible and had clout, well that had appeal. Lo and served at the end of each meeting. This group was also respon- behold, the more I investigated, the more obvious it became that sible for providing entertainment at one Northern Lights Club Jesus stood out from the other “religious” leaders. Which is how meeting each year. I came to believe in a Creator God, who actually sent His repre- The Drama Club was formed and in June 1948 they held a sentative to our earth in human form… who was/is LOVE, and Variety Concert in the school building. The proceeds from the longing to have a personal relationship with me. And with every- concert went toward the cost of a piano for the community. A second Variety Concert was held in November of the same year one else, for that matter, who has ever received physical life in the School Hall. The money realized was used to purchase So this is what is meant by “those who believe”. We believe green stage curtains. The Drama Club also had to provide en- (and confess, as Romans 10:9 tells us), and we have this personal tertainment at one Northern Lights meeting each year. Their relationship with God. WOW! first public performance was held in June 1950 in the Commu- Anyway, encouraging/sharing resources with other Christians is nity Hall. A number of male actors joined the club in 1952 and something which has long tugged at my heart. I look forward to that spring they presented a three-act comedy and later in the doing just that, via this column. year two one-act plays. The funds raised went toward the Chil- dren’s Dental Clinic. Hold fast to the Bible as the sheet anchor of your liberties; The Northern Lights Club formed a Book Club in 1948. The write its precepts on your heart and practice them in your life. book Club met monthly in the homes of its members. They met To the influence of this Book we are indebted for the progress to discuss current books. A selection of books was chosen each made, and to this we must look as our guide in the future. year from a list that was obtained from a qualified Book Advi- sor. The number of books chosen was equal to the number of --Ulysses S. Grant members enrolled. Each member paid a Book Club member- October, 2004 Page 8 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

(LOOKBACK from page 7) This group not only bought the needed equipment, but also sup- ship that was equal to the price of one book. At the end of each plied the teaching staff. season, each member got to keep one book. This group was The Community Sunday School was a very important organi- small, but its members enjoyed convenient access to current zation brought about by the Northern Lights Club. It was orga- books. nized in March 1948. The first meeting was held in a cottage at The first Social Sewing and Handicraft groups were formed in the end of Snow Lake. Seventeen children were present. Even- the spring of 1948. Mrs. Fraser Crocker, Mrs. H. Katzberg, Mrs. tually this cottage was needed for a family and the group moved R. Venables, and Mrs. Ward were the leaders of these groups. to the Curling Rink. With the completion of the new school that The twice-monthly meetings were held in members’ homes until September, the Sunday School moved into the school’s auditori- the Community Hall opened. The meetings were a social even- um. During the summer of 1950, the Sunday School closed for ing of “making and doing” such as knitting, crocheting, mend- the summer holidays. This in turn led to the first Vacation ing, darning, etc. Arts and Crafts included a variety of sketching School in Snow Lake. In September of 1950, the Community Hall and painting, working with leather, making jewelry, aluminum was opened and the group moved once again. By September of etching, and working with felt. Refreshments were served by 1951, the Sunday School enrollment had grown to 56. By 1955, it the hostess of the evening before the close of the meeting. was at 70. This was truly a “Community Sunday School”, be- In early 1951, Kindergarten for pre-school children was cause teachers and students of all denominations attended. brought to the attention of the Northern Lights Club and they The Northern Lights Club played a very important part in the thought it would be a feasible venture. The Club contacted the growth and development of our community. Department of Education to acquire a Kindergarten curriculum Footnote: and once the literature was received, the Club met again to dis- Can anyone remember being a member of the Gold Town Teeners cuss teachers, volunteers, and supplies. It was decided that if 20 prior to 1955? Can anyone remember being a member of the Photog- children enrolled, it would indeed be viable. Each child would raphy Club prior to 1955? be charged a nominal fee and the Northern Lights Club would Please call me with your story or comments at 358-2270 or email me assume the balance of costs. After the 1951 Easter Holiday, at lookingback_stabback @hotmail.com, or send me a letter at Post Of- Snow Lake had its first Kindergarten with an enrollment of 24 fice Box 756 R0B 1M0. students. Mrs. Cherry and Mrs. Gowans were the alternating teachers for the first term, with assistance coming from volun- Thank you to Lasca Reed for giving me the idea to write about teer helpers from the Northern Lights Club. With the support of the Northern Lights Club and thank you to Vi Wood for sharing the Northern Lights Club Kindergarten was a huge success. her very valuable yearbook with me, so that I could obtain this information.

What Ever Happened to... Sandra Sluserenko (Doran)

Hi everyone, similar scenery to Snow Lake. I worked in the meat department My name is Sandra Slusarenko now, but my maiden name is of our grocery store, which in 1991 is where I met my future hus- Doran. We lived in Snow Lake until 1979. Dad was a welder band Pete. My brother Jim brought him up for a fishing trip with H.B.M. & S. and Mom worked for the town as Administra- from the city and asked me to come along. I should have figured tor, among other things. something was up, as Jim wouldn’t normally do this. We moved from Flin Flon to Snow Lake in 1962 and lived on Anyway, soon I was back in Winnipeg and working in another Kerr Ave. I can remember always having enough people around meat store. In February1993, I was injured at work and spent the to play uluska in the church sandlot across the street and many next couple of years trying to get better. I took some computer adventures were had in the surrounding bush. I was told once courses, as I was not allowed to return to my previous line of that my brother Jim and I were the first twins to live in Snow work. Lake and that Les and Leanne Teneycke, three houses up from Pete and I were married in June1993 and we have two boys – us, were the first twins born there. Duril, 9 and Shaun, 7. Both keep me pretty busy as a stay at In Aug. 1979, Mom and Dad decided they needed a change home Mom, so I haven’t had a chance to do much with the cours- and bought a variety store in Sioux Lookout, Ont. Being 17½ at es. that time, I was none to happy with the move and became some- We lost my Mom in 1995 and Dad’s still in Sioux. Randy came what rebellious, but looking back it turned out to be a good from Toronto to help out and has stayed there. Barry and Jim are thing. After graduating high school, I worked at our hospital both in Winnipeg. and airport for a while as well as “the” store for Mom and Dad. I was up to Snow Lake a few years back and saw quite a few I lived in Thunder Bay for a winter, but that was too damp for people I hadn’t seen in some time. I really enjoyed my trip there. someone who grew up in the dry bush land of the north. From I even got to go to one of my favorite places in the world – We- there I moved to Winnipeg, where I lived with Meaghan (Lynda) kusko Falls. I spent two wonderful nights there; I even had a fox McMurray for a couple of years. I got a job working in the meat walk into my campsite. department of a Food Fare. Well that’s about it. It sure is nice to be able to keep in touch By now I was getting tired of city life and in 1989 when the with things. Thanks to Marc and everyone else involved in the opportunity to move back to Sioux Lookout came along, I took it. paper. If you want to drop a line I’m at mama_b62 Sioux Lookout is a small town right on the lake, with strikingly “at”hotmail”dot”com. THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

Volume 1, Issue 3 SNOW LAKE, MANITOBA November, 2004 PCH beds open Telehealth technology comes to Snow Lake STAFF At their September 28th regular in the spring of 2001 with a stated goal of STAFF Close to forty staff, patients, digni- meeting, the Snow Lake District providing quality information and knowledge at taries, and citizens of the Town of Health Council (DHC) voted unanimously to the point of care, for all Manitobans, wherever Snow Lake were on hand at 1:15 p.m. on bring a time and money saving piece of health they reside, while utilizing the latest in th September 24 to witness the grand opening technology to the citizens of their community information technology to achieve that goal. of the new Personal Care Home (PCH) beds at and the area. Telehealth, a program designed to Following its inception, the network was the community’s local Health Center. reduce the need to travel for health care, established as an ongoing program in 2003 and The Norman Regional Health Authority’s increase educational opportunities for physicians in that time has witnessed 98% growth, without CEO, Drew Lockhart, was the emcee for the and healthcare workers, and link patients with any growth in its budget. This lack of a ceremony and he was quick to place credit for their families during times when medical needs budgetary increase has resulted in delayed bringing the project to its final stage fully in keep them apart for extended periods of time, is expansion of the service outside of the the hands of the local District Health Council coming to Snow Lake. communities it is presently in. It was for this (DHC). He mentioned all members of the Telehealth will basically allow the citizens of reason, and the availability of the money in the council individually, but singled out the for- Snow Lake access to remote health services at Foundation Fund, that the members of the mer Chairperson, Alan Beilman with the ma- the flick of a switch; services that might have DHC decided to go after the service on their jority of his praise. “Alan was always very otherwise taken months to set up and hours to own. vocal in putting forth the community’s needs,” get to. In explaining the program at a recent said Lockhart. “And he always got his point Using money from an account called the Snow community health assessment meeting, across with a certain grace and respect. Lake Health Auxiliary Foundation Fund; all MBtelehealth Site Supervisor, Liz Adair, Lockhart also commended the RHA’s Exec- installation costs for the telehealth system will be discussed a situation most everyone in the North utive Director of Planning Research and De- borne locally. These costs are estimated to be in has experienced. She talked about people velopment, Sue Crockett. “She pressed the the neighbourhood of $25,000 - $30,000. having to ride the bus all night, and then travel Provincial government on this program,” he This system is offered through MBtelehealth by taxi to a clinic or hospital in an unfamiliar said. “It was her tenacity that pushed the which itself is one of 27 federally funded city. Finally, after a lengthy wait, the person project through to fruition.” telehealth projects. MBtelehealth was initialized (SEE “TELEHEALTH” on page 3) Before introducing him, Lockhart took time to mention MLA, Gerard Jennissen’s sizable part in the project. “He was the guy jumping up and down in Winnipeg and doing all of the Snow Lake loses Rec. Director work behind the scenes,” said the CEO. Jen- nissen was in attendance representing Minister STAFF: Recreation Director Stephanie skateboard park, and equipment for a of Health Dave Chomiak and read a prepared Foy submitted her resignation community weight and fitness room. statement from Chomiak before adding some to the Town of Snow Lake on Septem- Foy is married and has three chil- comments of his own. The local MLA also ber 30th 2004. They accepted it with dren. She, husband Neil, and their singled out Beilman and the DHC’s resolve in regret at their October 5th regular boys will be leaving the community moving the project forward and spoke of the meeting. shortly to take up residence in South- older Snow Lake citizens and their families who will benefit from the new beds. Foy has been the community’s Rec. ern Manitoba. Ms. Foy will then begin Lockhart next called the town’s Mayor, Gar- Director for the past four years and in employment as the Recreation Coordi- ry Zamzow, to the microphone. Zamzow a an opinion shared by many of the nator for the Rural Municipalities of long time Snow Lake citizen, heaped praise on town’s 1300 residents; she was particu- West St. Paul and St. Andrews. the work done by DHC members in addition larly adept at that job. During that October 5th meeting, the to recalling the contributions of former Hospi- During her tenure with the town, Town Council instructed their Assis- tal Board members such as Gunner Johansson and Boyd Molder. Foy was responsible for the develop- tant Administrator to place an ad in Norman RHA Board Chairperson, Linda ment and implementation of a number the community’s weekly newspaper Lautamus followed Zamzow, bringing greetings of recreation programs and is credited advertising the term position of Recre- on behalf of her board, while echoing the with working to secure a multitude of ation Organizer. Subsequent to this, sentiments of those who spoke before her. grants for the town and many of the they interviewed and hired Amanda After Lautamus left the microphone, the groups within it. Just recently she Perret into the position. man much of the afternoon’s praise was cen- helped the town and others acquire Foy’s last day of work was October tered upon was asked to say a few words. In a modest and eloquent manner, Beilman stated monies for a wheelchair ramp and 20th; Perret’s first day was the 21st. (SEE BEDS on page 3) drainage repairs, a lighting retrofit, a November, 2004 Page 2 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

E D IT O R IA L Adjacent to this painting is a piece of “Blueprint Art” done by my daughter Jessica when she was in grade 3 (she is in grade 12 this year). ’ve heard it said that your surroundings reflect who you are… or Near as I can figure, the picture depicts a fish inside a cup. It’s a perhaps it was, who you are is reflected in your surroundings. strange one, but I like the medium as well as the subject… and the artist Well, I’d say that’s close to being the same thing. Regardless, is kinda special too. both statements have brought me to reflect upon my surroundings Flanking this is the newest addition to the room, a picture, just re- (along with the fact that I’m really suffering for lack of a better editori- cently given to me by Pearl Doak. It’s of her late husband Gordon and I al topic). sitting in the boiler room at the school, having coffee (or having an in- I spend a good portion of my free time writing, and pretty much all of service, as Gordon used to say). It looks like it was taken back in about that writing takes place in front of the computer in our basement of- 1977. I have this Molson Canadian trucker hat on and by the look of fice/gym. It houses a desk and filing cabinet that originally came from the gleam in my eye; I’d likely done my part in supporting their product Manibridge Mine. An old “York” weight machine, held together with the night before. It’s a good picture of Gordy. He’s leaning back and mismatched nuts, bolts, and duct tape. A high-end stationary bike smiling, looking every bit the part of a wise old friend and mentor. I that between my son and I we’ve put close to 30,000 kms on, and my think of Gordy often and I was pleased when Pearl found this picture brand new Dell 8400. That’s the furniture, and judging from this col- and offered it to me. It brings a smile to my face every time I look at it. lection you could assume that the room is occupied by a semi-fit com- Bordering that photo is a pencil drawn United Steelworkers of Amer- puter geek, but then again it’s the walls that tell the story. ica poster, which was used to publicize a Mining Conference. The Looking at the walls of this room, I’m sure you’d get the idea that I poster has a depiction of a headframe on it. It used to grace the wall of enjoy clutter. Not necessarily so. However, I do like having things the war room in the Flin Flon Labour Temple. That is until it fell off around that evoke memories and nurture thought. Let me give you a the wall, the glass broke and in a moment of weakness, the Local’s tour. President allowed me to take it off their hands. I like the look of head- Going counter-clockwise around the room, a Tolko Industries calen- frames and actually stopped and photographed every one I came across dar sits to the left above the desk. This doesn’t grace my wall because on a 1997 holiday through Ontario and Quebec. This particular head- I’m a big fan of Tolko. Oh, they’re okay I guess, but the calendar is on frame is special though, as it holds a strong resemblance to the old the wall because it features some stunningly beautiful nature photog- number one at Stall Lake. raphy… that and the fact that I didn’t have to pay for it. One of the Alongside is a large framed photograph of a CN Train going through employees whose photography is featured in it gave it to me. the Rockies. It belonged to my Stepfather, Moe Bell. Moe was a big On the other side of the door are two framed photo collages. One model train buff and had an amazing setup in the basement of he and with three poses of my wife Leone and I taken over a span of about 22 my mother’s home in Swan River. This photo used to hang on the wall years and another with pictures of me as a baby and youngster along above it. Since Moe’s passing, the picture now belongs to my younger with pictures of my siblings and parents back in the 1950’s and 60’s. brother Shaun. I’m just holding it until the next time I see him and I Both collages were made by Leone and given to me on either a birthday thought, rather than storing it under a bed, why not put it up on the or anniversary and both recount on a personal level, who I am, where I wall and enjoy it and thoughts of Moe that it inspires. come from and in some respects, where I’ve been. Nearby, is another collage frame, only this one is full of baby, toddler, Next to this is a new addition to the room, a present from my daugh- and youngster pictures of my daughter Jessica. I look at this one a lot, ter Jessica, a spray-paint rendering of Jimi Hendrix. For those of you as it’s just below the window. It never fails to bring a smile to my face. who don’t know who Hendrix was, he was only the best lead guitar Above the TV, which is most always tuned to TSN, CTV Newsnet, or player that ever strung a six string… backwards, I might add, he was CNN, is a framed picture of my father standing behind a surveyor’s left handed and played the guitar upside down. I’ve been a fan since I transit. It was taken in 1956 on (frozen) Moak Lake. For those who was eleven years old. I still remember September 18, 1970, sitting at the are unaware, Moak Lake was a camp during the discovery of the kitchen table at our home in Thompson, listening incredulously as they Thompson Nickel deposit. Actually, it was to be a mine and at one announced his death by overdose on the radio. A sad day for music point even had a headframe in place (I’ve got a picture of that one too). fans everywhere. I found this picture of my Dad in some of his old negatives. I felt it Beside Jimi’s picture is one that no matter how I adjust it continues typified my father, the love he had for his work and his affection for the to hang lopsided. It is a display frame and contains a picture of my outdoors. I had several copies made and framed for each of my siblings. father, Ian Maurice Jackson, taken when he was about 25 years old. I’ve circled the entire room and I’m now focused on the last item on Next to the picture, inside the frame, hangs his service medals from the these four walls. My grade 12 diploma! Some might wonder why I’d Second World War. The weight of these medals is what causes the put something like that up on my wall. I guess the answer is, because I frame to droop on an angle. They aren’t his original medals; those were worked hard to get it and I’m proud of it. As many likely know, when I lost in a fire back in the eighties. My Dad spent the last years of his life was younger, I didn’t have much use for school. I managed a grade 8 in a veteran’s hospital in Calgary and on one trip out to visit; I asked standing by the time I’d left school for good at the age of 15. At the age where his medals were. He informed me about the fire, and the loss of of 43, after four long years of correspondence courses, I finally obtained this important part of his past, so I took it upon myself to get him a a Grade 12 diploma. It was a great feeling of accomplishment and to be new set issued through Veteran’s Affairs. When he passed away, the (SEE EDITORIAL on page 3) medals came to me. I’m proud of them and I’ve always been proud of the fact that he went overseas and earned them protecting my freedom. Next over is a picture that my wife hates and won’t allow me to hang THE Lake-Land PHOENIX anywhere other than in this room (although I don’t think she’d raise is a monthly, independent newspaper, published in much of a fuss if I put it up out in the garage). It’s an expressionist Snow Lake, Manitoba. painting by a guy who used to live in Snow Lake. His name is Jim EDITOR: Marc W. Jackson Lauder and I believe he worked for HBM&S at the mill. I got the pic- Correspondence: P.O. Box 490, Snow Lake, MB., R0B 1M0 ture years ago from a buddy of mine, Barry Leach. Although it’s hard to Phone: (204)358-2887 tell, the picture is of a man plugging money into a jukebox and is titled email: [email protected] “In anticipation of the music”. I think it’s really good and might some- http://www.mts.net/~mjaxon day be worth money; however, as noted, opinions on the painting’s ALL NEWS... NO FILLER worth differ somewhat within the household. November, 2004 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX Page 3

(BEDS from page 1) (EDITORIAL from page 2) that it was satisfying to experience the realization of a dream. He gave truthful, I enjoyed the opportunity to study and learn in addition to the those in attendance some background on what was involved in bringing things that I discovered about myself and my capabilities over those the project from the early days of being recognized and culled from a four years. community health needs assessment survey, to the disappointments of Not that anyone asked or anything, but if a person’s surroundings having the project moved to the back burner on several occasions. reflect who they are… I guess that’s who I am. Like I said, I was kinda Beilman shifted much of the credit for pushing the project through to stuck for a subject. his fellow DHC members. He also thanked Sue Crockett for being the ~**~ At the end of last month, I received an email from Ross Moncaster, person who persevered with the project and really pushed the province giving me an update on some new developments in a horrific incident for its completion. Beilman ended by drawing laughter from the crowd that befell his son Trevor back in January of 2004. He directed me to a in stating, “There is a Phase II to this project, right.” Adding, news release on the Vancouver Police Department’s (VPD) web site. “Hopefully, those on the DHC will continue to move on that.” It stated that after an exhaustive investigation, the Department’s Speeches and introductions out of the way, Lockhart asked Beilman Homicide Squad has arrested a man for the murders of Trevor’s 23-year and Jennissen to hold the ribbon and called on the two daughters of the -old girlfriend Rachel Davis and another man, 24-year-old Richard Gar facility’s longest resident to cut it. Lynda Pronger and Shirley Payne cut Lok Hui. the ribbon as their mother Marg Payne looked on. They have charged 23 year-old, Saff Imran Sharif with two counts of Tours of the new addition, coffee, tea, dainties, and fellowship fol- first degree murder and four counts of attempted murder. lowed the ceremony. For those who are unaware, Rachel was murdered by a man she saved At present there are four residents in the PCH beds at the Snow Lake from a beating. While leaving a Vancouver nightclub with Trevor and Health Center. Marg Payne and Lona Evans are residents of the new several of their friends, Rachel spotted three men in a parking lot across addition. Andy Chudy and Hilda Stoltz reside in the rooms housing the the street putting the boots to another man who was down on the existing beds. ground. She ran to his rescue, and in an attempt to bring an end to the At a cost of approximately $350,000, construction on the addition that kicking, threw herself on top of the man receiving the beating. houses the new beds began in October of 2003 and was completed in the At this point, the guy who was taking the kicking got up and began to spring of 2004. walk away. He suddenly turned, pulled a gun, and began firing. As a result, Rachel was shot, so were the three attackers and also one of the (“TELEHEALTH” from page 1) couple’s friends. Trevor ran after the gunman, who then also fired at would get to see a doctor who might spend just minutes with them him. The bullet grazed Trevor’s left temple. before sending them on their way. “Although telehealth won’t eliminate At this point, Trevor went back to the shooting scene only to find his all face-to-face consultations, it does give patients the opportunity to girlfriend dying on the ground. He provided what comfort he could to consult with physicians and specialists based in other locations using real her before the ambulance arrived. She died shortly after arrival at the Hospital. Of the others involved in the incident, Trevor's friend was -time video conferencing.” wounded in the arm and shoulder and one of the three attackers was In addition to the real-time video consulting capability of telehealth, killed, while the other two were wounded. the MBtelehealth network also offers an easily accessible and cost In this news release, the VPD’s Deputy Chief LePard commented, effective way of delivering educational opportunities, healthcare “All murders are tragic, but this case was especially so, as it involved administration, and family visitations. It seems the system’s uses are the senseless killing of two young people, one of whom went out of her limitless. way to help a perfect stranger and break up a fight she had nothing to MBtelehealth’s website details the many benefits of the system, and do with.” explains that Tele-education is an efficient and affordable way to create Constable Rich Akin, one of the lead investigators on the crime, de- an online classroom, with learners situated in their own communities. scribed the case as being one of the most difficult types to solve. “It was Using a telehealth link to connect a teacher, speaker, or specialist with an outdoor and extensive crime scene, there was no lighting, there was students, they are able to see, hear and talk to each other via cameras alcohol involved which affected witness recollections, and there were a and television screens at each individual location. lot of people there.” He commended his team members for bringing In the case of Televisitation, this service is used where patients and order out of all the chaos by methodically carrying out a traditional type their families are separated by distance. Using the telehealth technology, of police investigation. this component allows patients to remain in a location where the best When asked about the condition of the four other victims that sur- possible care is available to them, while allowing family members to offer vived the shootings that night, the detective replied that they had all support and comfort via real-time video. recovered physically, but were still dealing with the trauma. The Teleadministration aspect is available to health care I’ve had a number of Trevor’s friends from school contact me about administrators in order to reduce travel while increasing their ability to the original editorial I did on this incident. All were concerned about participate in regional provincial meetings. him. Take care Trev, we’re thinking about you buddy. The community’s telehealth center will be located in the Snow Lake ~**~ Health Center. It is expected that wiring, equipment positioning, and As most no doubt know, Recreation Director Stephanie Foy has re- training will begin soon, and that the system will be operational within signed and is moving on. The community will certainly miss her. How- ever, what some might not know is that Snow Lake now has a new three months time. Recreation Organizer. She is none other than Amanda Perret (nee Guiboche). Amanda started in the position on October 21st. She did get a few “Duct tape is like the force. It has a light hours in with her predecessor, before taking the reins on her own. Amanda will likely put her own mark on the position and as with Steph- side, a dark side, and it holds the universe anie before her, she’ll no doubt be open to your suggestions on activities and programs. So if you see her on the street or at the hall, say hi, together.” ~ Oprah Winfrey wish her luck, and give her your suggestions and ideas. November, 2004 Page 4 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

With the sudden arrival of cold weather, our extended golf season has REC. REVIEW by: Stephanie Foy come to a grinding halt. In my case, it should have ended about a week earlier. I took my eldest daughter golfing in Morden on the last warm Skatepark is finished!!! Saturday in October. The Morden course is very nice; however, quite This year in May, I held a meeting with the youth in Snow Lake to challenging. My daughter hadn’t played since taking part in the high discuss the building of a permanent Skatepark. The meeting went well; school zone playoffs, where she golfed the game of her life and was low we discussed the plans for the park and adjusted them to the needs and net of all the girls in the tournament. Apparently this boost of confi- wants of the group that was present. Then we set to work applying for dence was all she needed to kick her Dad’s butt. She was two strokes grants and trying to secure help. ahead of me after nine holes and quite proud of herself until I informed Our first cement pour took place at the beginning of June and if I told her that a game of golf in Morden is 18 holes. That’s when age and expe- you that it went well, I would be lying. We built a form to house the first rience cut in. I used every mind game I had to break her concentration block of cement, which would eventually have a ramp extending off of and control of the game. I saved face by whipping her by seven strokes the side. It had to be four feet high and eight feet wide. When we on the back nine. She has her driver’s license now, so next year I might reached the 2.5 ft mark, one side of the form let go! We rushed to grab save the embarrassment of getting kicked and send her to the golf course straps to hold it together, but to no avail. We brainstormed and came up by herself. with the idea of using the town’s loader to push the side in. We tracked Another season of hockey is underway in southern Manitoba. I have down the loader operator and he came and pushed it in. We persevered committed to another stint as girly goalie and have been dragging my and filled the form up to the three foot mark. The team of kids who eldest daughter with me every Monday night. Boy, what a man has to do filled this cement form with buckets should be commended. It was hard to spend quality time with his children. She plays midget girl’s hockey work. out of Manitou and they have no ice yet, so it is a good chance for her to The second pour was to be the next box (the center of the half pyra- get in shape. My other daughter has already started practicing. She is mid). We learned from our mistakes with the previous box and this pour with the peewee girl’s team. Girl’s hockey in these parts has really taken went off without a hitch. At this point we received two grants, one from off. This year the percentage of girls registered in Minor hockey has the Youth Activity Kouncil (YAK) and one from the former Youth Cen- grown to 30%. ter. With this money we were able to buy a grind bench and a pre-made The old timers have also started skating for the season. I had my fifti- funbox. eth birthday this summer and was wondering if I would be too old to This is where the Skatepark stayed for most of the summer. It was very play. However, when I got to the rink, I found out everyone else is a year hard to find volunteers who felt confident enough in their form building older also. I showed the boys my new move called the Morden Maneu- to take on the ramps. There were certain components that had to be ver. It is very similar to the Snow Lake Shuffle (that I learned watching included that are specific to skateboarding and this made the ramps too Kenny Baird practice when he played for the Winnipeg Jets); however, it complicated for the average person to tackle. is much slower and not quite as smooth. In early September I found two local men who had experience with My wife and her friends have revived her old curling team this year ramp cement forming and they came to the rescue. Within two weeks the and have reentered the Thursday night ladies curling league. I am hop- park was finished and we even built an extra piece that wasn’t included ping she gets her fill of curling, so I don’t have to do the mixed curling in the original design. The day after the forms were taken off, the park thing again this year. Maybe I will try and set up a Glow Volleyball was the center of attention. It seemed as though every kid in town was League or something. I could get Stabback to come down and teach a there. clinic or something. Well my tiny brain has come to a standstill so I will I would like to thank all of the individuals who gave their ideas and quit for now. Until next time, head up and your stick on the ice. time to this project. Without you, it wouldn’t have been as successful as Darryl Wooley it was. In a small town like Snow Lake, we do not have the budget to allow the purchase of equipment such as this and it would have taken A Lakeside Perspective by: Barrie years to raise enough money to buy the pieces. This park is a great exam- Taylor ple of how Snow Lake comes together to turn ideas into the finished project. Who should write a Letter to the Editor? It is a sad day as I must say this is my last Article from the Town of Recent surveys show that 86% of the people who read a small Snow Lake Recreation Department. I will be moving south to a new town newspaper will always read a letter to the editor. What this recreation position with the RM’s of St. Andrews and West St. Paul. I indicates is that if you have a strong opinion about anything in have enjoyed Snow Lake, both as a child and as an adult, and the people particular, there are a large number of people who would like to here will always hold a special place in my heart. Thank you to all those hear your opinion. who have volunteered to make our community what it is and thanks to My view is: Never be shy to express your opinion; just make sure you who supported my ideas, even if they were different from your own. to express it with knowledge. So lets get some letters to the editor Goodbye Snow Lake! coming in! “ACCORDING TO by: Darryl Darryl” Wooley The Snow Lake DHC… Well, well, isn’t this something? I thought I was done with this job. For not only persevering and getting the community two PCH After the trashing we got from Ted, I was disappointed that none of us beds, but also for bringing Telehealth to Snow Lake. had a chance for a rebuttal. Apparently the Lake-Land Phoenix has given Stephanie Foy…. us that opportunity. I am still gathering dirt on Ted, so it won’t be in What could possibly be added to what has already been said about this article where he gets his payback. Don’t worry; between Leclair and this spark plug? You leave us sad, but you leave us with your recrea- I we have plenty of time to come up with a just reward. tion legacy. November, 2004 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX Page 5 THE CHAMBERS by: Marc Under Business Arising From The Minutes Councilor Jackson ad- Jackson vised that he’d read the Animal Control Bylaw and although portions Mayor Zamzow opened the October 5th regular meeting of council at are convoluted, it appears Pit Bulls are a prohibited breed within the 6:30 p.m. All council members (other than Powell) and Assistant Ad- Town of Snow Lake. Mrs. Erickson was directed to determine the ministrator Erickson were in attendance. breed of a dog brought to the attention of council. Under Delegations on the agenda, Terry Vaters was scheduled to The Protection Committee Report was received for filing. Council attend; however, he was absent when the agenda item arose. agreed with committee recommendations for: the numbering sequence Under Business Arising From The Minutes, the evaluation grid for of graves at the cemetery; size restrictions on future headstones; hiring the recent Communities in Bloom (CIB) competition was discussed. It two local men to survey, mark, and document the location of all plots was noted that in spite of all the work that the local committee and in the cemetery. Council also approved the recommendation that all home owners did this year, the grid score was slightly lower than in brush burning at the cabin lots be restricted to the burrow pit and that 2003. However, the community did get a Special Evaluation Category it be done only by the Town’s forces at certain times of the year, under mention for their landscaped areas. The Mayor stated that he attended a permit issued by Conservation Manitoba. the latest CIB meeting and said that the committee plans to work to- The Public Works Committee Report was received for filing. Coun- wards the Five Blooms designation in the coming year. cil approved committee recommendations to: make several purchases if Under Delegates’ Reports, Councilor Chrapun explained that the the budget allows; have the foreman trained on GPS in order to map Ambulance Service has lost one driver and another is only available on curb stops with AutoCAD; look into digitizing all town maps; have a limited basis. She also stated that the Family Resource Center has crews schedule all holidays by Feb 15 and ensure that no two employ- hired a new coordinator, Mrs. Barb Elliott. ees are off at the same time; look into sending oil samples from machin- The Mayor gave a verbal report of his activities during the past two ery in for analysis; have the Foreman look into professional develop- weeks. He attended the opening of the PCH addition at the Snow ment courses. Lake Health Center and said it was fantastic to hear the tributes that Under Delegate’s Reports on the agenda, Councilor Chrapun report- locals received for their work in seeing this project through. Zamzow ed that the last Family Resource Center meeting wasn’t held due to the updated council on discussions he has had with Roger Brunie in regard lack of a quorum. Councilor Powell informed council of a meeting he’d to funding for a Community Development Officer (CDO). There is recently attended where Bill C-45 (the Westray Bill) had been dis- apparently a letter on its way, which describes funding arrangements cussed. He wondered if council was aware of the implications for em- for the position. Zamzow stated that he discussed New Brits’ funding ployers under the legislation. Most were. agreement with Mike Kelly and advised him of the town’s position. Under the Mayor’s Report, Mayor Zamzow explained that the local Zamzow and Councilor Chrapun attended a recent District Health Metis Federation meetings originally scheduled for November 5th had Council meeting and reported that Telehealth will be coming to Snow been rescheduled to November 12—14. He also informed council that Lake; however, it will be funded locally rather than by the Provincial he’d been approached by someone from the Rural Economic Develop- government. The Mayor also advised council of an upcoming Metis ment Initiative (REDI) about the possibility of a cooperative store in Federation meeting and supper at which their leader, David Chartrand, Snow Lake. Council did not feel that this was an initiative that the will speak. Council will receive an invite. Councilor Jackson asked council should pursue, but one a community group or organization where the upgrade to the Water Treatment Plant presently sat. The should take on. Zamzow told council of an apology he made to the Manitoba Water Services Board will be contacted in relation to the tour group which had some of their vehicles vandalized while in Snow status of this project. Lake. He also advised that Foran’s President, Steve Masson, would The Assistant Administrator’s Report was received for filing. Mrs. speak to council. He will be invited to their November 2nd meeting. Erickson brought up the topic of the morgue and the possibility of Under correspondence a letter was received from Craig Hanley of moving it. The Mayor stated that Regional Health Authority (RHA) Community Planning Services. He advised that Cabin Subdivisions at officials toured the morgue with him after the PCH bed opening. He Wedges Point, the West Shore of Snow Lake and North end of Ander- explained that the RHA members realize that the present facility is son Bay were all prohibitive due to Anderson and Wedges Point being inadequate. They will discuss and respond. Mrs. Erickson was in- expensive to build and maintain and extreme slope conditions on Snow structed to ask Community Planning Services’ Craig Hanley to meet Lake. with council in regard to help in costing two proposed cabin subdivi- In Other Matters, Councilor Jackson stated that he’d been ap- sions. Erickson apprised council of the headway being made on water proached about illegible signs throughout the town. The foreman will meter and aqua flo installation. Mr. Otto has had one person state that check. He also stated that he was sad to see Recreation Director they had no intention of allowing the installation of a water meter. Stephanie Foy leave and felt that the council should do something to Council was unanimous that the town will not supply water to any mark the recreation legacy she leaves behind. He suggested naming the residence or business without one and the town crew will be instruct- Skatepark after her. Council felt the idea should be tabled until the ed to shut the water off to this home. next meeting. Councilor Mayer asked the Mayor to bring the height of In other matters, council passed a resolution changing the date for wood furnace stacks up for discussion at the upcoming Association of local observance of Halloween from October 31st to the 29th. This is to Manitoba Municipalities conference. Mayer also asked what council negate the need of parents having to dress children for school parties as thought about people moving houses from town on to cabin lots. well as for trick or treating. Councilor Chrapun asked where the sta- Council didn’t feel that this was something that they wanted to regu- tion that was situated at 97.9 FM had gone. She was informed that it late. Mayer questioned when the lights council budgeted for at the had been reversed with the station at 89.9 FM. Councilor Mayer Anderson and Berry/Taylor Bay entrances would be installed. Assis- asked for suggestions of dates for a Public Works Committee meeting. tant Administrator Erickson will look into this. He also asked if coun- It was decided that noon on October 6th would be satisfactory. cil felt a letter should be sent to the Government asking that they en- Council went in-camera to discuss staffing and legal matters. Coun- sure environmental and pension concerns are addressed before any sale cilor Jackson left the in-camera session prior to the regular meeting of HBM&S is allowed. Council agreed a letter should be sent. Mayor resuming. Zamzow stated that he’d had a complaint about a sidewalk sinking on ~**~ Jasper Ave. With the weather of late, it appears to be too late to do Mayor Zamzow opened the October 19th meeting of council at 6:30 anything about it this year. pm. All council members (other than Councilor Booth) and Assistant Council went in-camera to discuss staffing and legal matters. The Administrator Erickson were in attendance. meeting closed at 10:10 p.m. November, 2004 Page 6 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

until they were repaired. Additionally, Kevin has been trained and certi- Tech Talk by: Clarence Fisher fied as a Traffic Collision Analyst. To date, he has been called by neigh- bouring detachments to investigate several serious vehicle acci- News You Can Use dents. Kevin has also utilized his expertise within Snow Lake in recently I’ve been playing browser games lately. I’ve had my laptop for about a solving a Hit and Run accident. Not long ago, while on duty in Falcon year and a half now and in that time I’ve spent a lot of time playing with Beach, while dealing with a speeding infraction, Kevin was responsible software. One of the hottest things on my list has been browsers. I’ve for the seizure of 74 lbs of marijuana and $8,000 cash. Kevin has also never been a fan of Microsoft’s Internet Explorer, but it came pre- just recently joined the Snow Lake Volunteer Fire Department and is loaded. I spent some time using it, only to find that I still didn’t care for interested in becoming involved in other community activities. His wife, it. Next came Apple’s own Safari. Again built-in, but with no tabbed Holly, is the Director of the Northern Tykes Daycare. browsing available, it soon went away. Next came a small browser from During the past several months, a number of complaints have been Japan called Shiira that ran at lightening speed. It was much quicker received of persons unlawfully entering or attempting to enter residences, loading than Safari, but again, it just didn’t do it. while the occupants were sleeping. One such attempt was unsuccessful, as So now I’ve moved on to Firefox. Firefox is a free download available the door was locked. Once again, all residents are encouraged to secure from Mozilla. This browser has tabbed browsing, a built-in search bar their property when it is not occupied or when they are sleeping.. and a bookmarking system that is completely customizable. After only a As of late, the Snow Lake RCMP has recovered a number of bicycles, few weeks’ use, I’m sold. which are obviously stolen, but remain unclaimed. In several instances, But all of this playing with browsers still didn’t solve my problem. I’ve parts of bicycles were damaged beyond repair. Several bicycles are known become addicted to weblogs, all kinds of them. Tech logs, logs about to have been stolen from the school and residences. Again, bicycle own- people’s lives, their thoughts, news, gadgets, and general cool stuff ers are encouraged to secure or lock them, when they are not in use. online. But they were clogging up my bookmarks bar and they were tak- Lately, police have been working jointly, with Manitoba Conservation, ing a lot of time to check every day. By the time I surfed through all of in an effort to detect and apprehend persons hunting illegally. Of partic- these sites, checking to see if there was anything new on them, I had ular concern are incidents which involve firearms being discharged from used up a lot of valuable time. This is how I learned about RSS the highway. Anyone witnessing this type of activity is requested to con- RSS stands for Really Simple Syndication. It is a descendent of the tact the RCMP or Conservation, as soon as possible. If possible, persons Push technology, which was all over the web a few years ago. Basically are encouraged to obtain the license plate numbers of the vehicle(s) in- RSS is a delivery boy for headlines that you choose. If a site has an RSS volved. feed that you have subscribed to, each time it is updated, your RSS read- In August, the Police/Community Consultative process was renewed, er automatically downloads the new headlines onto your machine. This with an initial meeting attended by 14 persons from Snow and Herb saves you the time of going to check the sites again and again to see if Lake. As a result, several priorities were established: Youth, Traffic anything new has been posted. (local), Drugs/Alcohol - Education, Communication, Parental Responsi- The first step in going this route is to download and set up an RSS bility and Foot Patrols. The next meeting is scheduled for Nov. 24th. reader. There are a lot of them available for download. Awasu, FeedDe- Anyone wishing to be involved in this consultative process can contact mon, and Pluck are three top readers available. Most of these programs Cpl. Bob McKnight at 358-7723. are available as a free download, but must be purchased for about $20 Police continue to receive complaints regarding the operation of Off- after a trial period. An exception is Awasu, which remains free. Also Road Vehicles (Quads) within Town limits. This operation remains available for free is the RSS service at bloglines.com, a website that you unlawful: as driving them in town is not sanctioned by the local By-Law. can set an account up with which serves as an online RSS reader. As well, operators of Quads and other off-road vehicles must be at least Once you have your reader installed, it is time to set your feeds. De- 14 years of age, wear a helmet and the machine must be registered. pending on your reader, you basically set it up to subscribe to a feed Communication is an essential component of policing. Persons wit- available at a certain URL by pasting the address into your software’s nessing or aware of any suspect criminal activity are encouraged to pro- subscribe function. When you‘ve done this, the feed will automatically vide this information to the police. The source of the information pro- update itself whenever the website or weblog is updated. vided, will remain in confidence. The only problem with RSS is that it is almost too easy to use. After As has been stated, in the past, in the event of an emergency, the Snow only a few weeks, I found myself with over 100 feeds and I had to take a Lake RCMP can be contacted by calling 911 or 358-7722. If the matter serious look at what I was actually reading and what could be safely is not of an urgent nature, people are requested to either visit the detach- pruned away. ment when a police vehicle is present, or call 358-7723. Normally, the The combination of a powerful browser with the features you need Snow Lake Detachment is staffed 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Tuesday and and an RSS reader will save you a lot of surfing time by using it for infor- Thursday. mation you know you are going to track down anyway. Instead of going "E.T. Phone Home!" to get it, let it come to you. ([email protected]) The Snow Lake RCMP is looking for assistance in finding those persons responsible for the theft or abduction of "E.T." from 523 Lakeshore POLICE REPORT By: Cprl. Bob MacKnight Drive. Some time in the last week or so, this rather heavy welded chain and Cst. Kevin Mantie statue went missing from Mrs. Setlack's front yard. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of E.T. is asked to contact the Snow Since the beginning of July, Snow Lake’s RCMP has responded to 205 Lake RCMP. complaints or requests for service. The majority of these calls are consid- Contact info: Cst. Kevin MANTIE ered routine in nature. In July, Cst. Kevin Mantie and his family arrived, from Falcon Beach. "It is no secret that organized crime in America takes in over forty Kevin has a particular interest and experience in relation to traffic ser- billion dollars a year. This is quite a profitable sum, especially when vices. He is certified to inspect commercial vehicles and since his arrival, has conducted a number of them. A good many of these inspections one considers that the Mafia spends very little for office supplies." have resulted in the vehicles in question being removed from service -Woody Allen November, 2004 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX Page 7

For Those Who Believe by: Becky Accident causes Ainsworth considerable damage In writing about God and His truth, there is so very, very much one could express. Your prayers for me are appreciated as I learn more to STAFF A single vehicle accident within the limits of the Town hear and obey that “still small voice.” I will be praying for you too, read- of Snow Lake caused a considerable amount of damage ers, as we together grow in our intimate relationship with Him. to the automobile, as well as to a park fence that it struck. Just now I was with a Christian friend, in fact had invited myself over Corporal Bob MacKnight of the Snow Lake RCMP stated that at to her house for lunch (following a study we’re involved with at the approximately 3:45 a.m., on Saturday, October 9th, police responded to church on Tuesdays). We have not known each other for many months, a complaint of a single vehicle accident at the Sunset Bay Park on but already this friendship runs deep. Not wanting to be presumptuous Lipsey Dr. “Upon arrival at the scene, police observed a number of (plus their income, like ours, is the stretch-your-dollars sort … plus we persons standing near a pickup, which had extensive damage to the tend to like quite opposite types of food), I had packed along some passenger side,” said MacKnight. “This resulted from it colliding with food… And she turned out to be indignant! So I shared some with her, and destroying a substantial section of the parks’ chain link fence.” and she shared some with me, and we had a fine time there at her cozy MacKnight stated that the driver of the vehicle, an adult male resi- little table. It was in our discussion afterwards that I got to really think- dent of Snow Lake, was identified and taken into custody and that a ing again about some large differences between individual believers. cursory search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of an unloaded And it’s not just in family upbringing (where she has had it rougher than rifle. I), or in personality differences (she may be a bit more melancholy than “Evidence, at the scene, revealed that the suspect vehicle had been I, though I’m not quite sure), nor in present family circumstances either east bound on Lakeshore Dr., and traveling at an excessive rate of speed,” explained the Corporal. “The driver failed to negotiate a right (she has an as yet unbelieving husband, and a daughter who suffers fre- turn onto Lipsey Dr. and lost control of the vehicle as it traveled across quent night time “seizures” – and the doctors don’t even quite agree on the road and onto the gravel shoulder. The momentum of the vehicle the story of what’s happening, which tends to make it even more dis- was sufficient that it collided with the chain link fence, traveling a tressing.) distance of approximately 400 feet, before finally coming to rest at the Today I discovered that this friend is sometimes not even sure she is a base of a swing set.” The officer added that neither the driver nor his believer. I’m convinced that she is and told her so, but this led me to passenger suffered any injury as the result of the collision. ask a few questions: “Don’t you feel a joy in knowing Him?” “Doesn’t He further advised that based upon the physical and driving evi- your heart at times well up in a love and gratitude so intense that you dence, which was gathered, the driver of the vehicle was arrested for can barely express it?” And concerning the question of whether God is Impaired Driving. Additionally, investigation has since determined big enough to handle any problem you or I might have, well, I’ve taken that the aforementioned (seized) firearm was lawfully registered to a to waving a hand towards any handy window to take in the universe Snow Lake resident and had been in the possession of another resi- outside and saying, “Elizabeth (stern mother voice here, though I’m only dent of Snow Lake who was lawfully licensed to possess it. a month older than she), how big is God?” “The suspect in this matter will be charged with Impaired Driving as Today I shared some more of my own background with her, trying to well as a number of other related offences,” said MacKnight. “It is “analyse” once again, what has made such a difference in my own Chris- estimated that the total costs as the result of this accident will be in tian life. (I know in general the answer, but all the ins and outs of how excess of $5000,” he added. God works, exactly, and so individually in every unique life, remains a mystery to me and, perhaps, well it should!) I walked home thinking about a book I have that she might like to read… But that is getting ahead of the story, which I would like to share with Richard "Dick" Cockle... readers of this column too, so here we go… Dick Cockle (80) passed away peacefully, with his family at his side, in As with many (all?) new believers, I was very excited about my new- the Strathmore Hospital on September 22, 2004. A memorial service found status, back in 1977 when my messed up life was finally given was held on Wednesday, October 6th at the Snow Lake Seniors Center. over to God. I look back at that now as “the honeymoon stage”; and In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dick's honour to the like marriage, I really didn’t understand all the implications of this “I Arthritis Society. do.” As I exited the university and began my role as “member of a mis- ~**~ sionary team to St. Lucia,” I was still very excited about my life with Geordie Robertson... God. (The result of my language aptitude test, by the way, determined Geordie Robertson passed away on September 25, 2004 at his resi- that I would go to an English speaking country, and the school decided dence in Snow Lake at the age of 63. on the Caribbean – not that I minded!) A celebration of Geordie's life was held in the Snow Lake Elks' Hall at [This story to be continued next time.] 2:00 p.m. on September 29, 2004, with James Hemauer presiding. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Geordie's honour to the The Snow Lake Community Snow Lake Anglican-United Church "Siding Fund". ~**~ Library Hours Gus Wolos… Tuesdays: 1:00 - 4:00 & 6:30 - 8:30 P.M. Gus Wolos passed away suddenly on October 2, 2004 in Chelopech Village, Bulgaria at the age of 33. Thursdays: 1:00 - 4:00 & 6:30 - 8:30 P.M. Funeral services took place at 2:00 p.m. on October 13, 2004 at the Saturdays: 1:00 - 4:00 P.M. Canora Community Center in Canora, Saskatchewan. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made as tokens of remembrance Come on out to the Dorothy Salahub Library and to The Trust Fund in memory of Gus Wolos to support local activities see what we have to offer! (Canora, SK.). November, 2004 Page 8 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

mankind’s brightest philosophers. It has no apparent beginning, or end, and its inexorable march away from the past, through the present, WoodChips and into the future seems unaffected by any force. Despite its unflinch- By: Kent Wood ing reliability and seemingly inexhaustible supply, time progressively encroaches upon human activity, busily buzzing, beeping, and whis- tling us along at an ever-increasing pace. We live in a world of speed, “Take Your Time” with fast cars, fast food, air travel that exceeds the speed of sound, and I suppose that my earliest perceptions of time were formed by the instantaneous communication, all carefully measured and graded by the cold, metallic wail of the company steam whistle at the old Brittania amount of time they take. Gold Mine in Snow Lake. I came to know its inescapable morning din Modern men are obsessed with time measurement, calculating its as notification that my father and the other men in town were now at increments in ever- smaller portions, carefully measuring our lives in work. Somehow, its late afternoon racket seemed just a fraction hours, minutes, seconds, and even fractions of seconds. The last time I friendlier as it signaled the re-emergence of the men from the hole in checked, there were at least twelve clocks in my own house, most of the ground where they made their livings. School introduced me to a them mounted on appliances that cater to our insatiable thirst for tim- rather loud, insistent buzzer that seemed to demand one’s immediate ing everything we do. attention. ‘Beating the buzzer’ became one of the first serious trials of Our modern relationship with time does not seem to be a healthy one. my early life. At about the age of 12, I recall feeling some sense of em- Granted there are some who claim to get their thrill from the rolling powerment and relief with the purchase of my first wristwatch, a boil of metropolitan existence in our larger cities. I don’t deny that $7.95 Timex from the Hudson Bay Store. At least, the ticking time- each of us has our own unique relationship with time and some people piece provided an early warning system for the dreaded buzzer that so crave more stimulation than others. It seems to me though that there often jolted my senses from some earnest task or daydream reverie. must be a limit, beyond which our liberty to spend a healthy and mean- My first employment as an adult was on the railway and my daily life ingful existence becomes impeded by the tyranny of a mechanical time- came to be ruled by ‘on time’, ‘time checks’, ‘time cards’, ‘time tables’, piece. and ‘time and a half’. Subsequent adventures in Canada, the US and I shed my wristwatch permanently a few years back. My stomach Australia provided me with enlightenment on the topics of ‘wasting and inbuilt sense of time are surprisingly accurate when it comes to time’, ‘killing time’, ‘lost time’, ‘free time’, ‘same time’, ‘behind the lunch and quitting time. My own interest in slowing down and appre- times’, ‘good and bad times’, and ‘no time’. No matter where I traveled, ciating life a bit more led to some interesting discoveries. There is actu- time was always there, sometimes a silent companion, and then like ally a worldwide movement afoot to “challenge the cult of speed” that some terrible tyrant, scheduling, dictating, hurrying everyone along, seems to be taking over our world. Canadian author Carl Honore’s “In and forever reminding us of its approach or passing with some un- Praise of Slow”(Knoph Canada, 2004) is a good read. Summer visits to pleasant noise. Snow Lake are always good therapy and I am glad that the old steam Time is a peculiar commodity, devoid of any particular substance or whistle is now silent. material, and its exact nature has proven forever elusive to the grasp of

accepted. What Ever Happened to... I served as a Constable in the RCMP for nearly 11 years, and was sta- Dennis BUDZ tioned in and around Swift Current and Regina. While in Strasbourg, Saskatchewan, I met and married a local pharmacist (Glenda). In 1991, It came as a shock to me when I learned of the demise of the we migrated to Australia and settled in the beautiful east coast city of ‘Underground Press’ late last year. Being some 15000 km distant, I felt a Brisbane. great loss, especially since I had grown quite used to ‘Ace’ keeping eve- By the time we arrived in Australia, I had decided that I was getting ryone up to speed with all of the Snow Lake news, events, and fare- too old to jump over fences chasing criminals, but I still had a passion wells. for police work. Even though I was in my thirties, I enrolled in a Bache- It was quite by accident that I stumbled across the new ‘Lake-Land lors degree course at Griffith University and enjoyed it so much that I Phoenix’ and immediately emailed Marc asking that I be placed on the went on to complete a Masters degree. After university, I accepted a mailing list. Marc‘s swift reply was “sure - no problem, but only if you research position at the Crime and Misconduct Commission (CMC), contribute to this month’s ‘Whatever happened to column’.” Well here and recently celebrated my tenth anniversary as the team leader of the it is… Police Research Group. The CMC is a unique organization in that it My name is Dennis Budz. My connection to Snow Lake goes way has three main functions: the investigation of organized crime, investi- back to 1958, when my father (Peter), mother (Vivian), brother (Don), gation of misconduct (e.g. corrupt cops and officials) and the improve- and I moved from Flin Flon to take up residence at 573 Lakeshore ment of the police service. My primary role at the CMC is overseeing a Drive. We lived there until my parents bought a company house at 6 team of researchers developing new methods of policing. It’s a job that Parres Avenue sometime in the mid 1960s. By the way, my mother, fa- gives me a great deal of satisfaction, especially when I can see our re- ther and brother and his family are living in the Canora, Saskatchewan search changing the way that police services are delivered in the com- area and are in fine health and spirit. munity. Snow Lake was a great place to grow-up, especially if you enjoyed the In June 2003, I made the long trek back to Snow Lake for the first outdoors. As do many of you, I have plenty of fond memories of lakes time in nearly twenty years. I must say that it felt good to be home and filled with fish, animals that didn’t seem to be afraid of anything and felt even better to see so many friends. It was a real hoot! I was also very above all else… plenty of bush! pleased to see Gary Zamzow, a friend and mentor from my Sea Cadet My teenage years in Snow Lake are memorable for making close days. I suspect that he, Ted Wilson and the other officers of that fine friends, getting my driver’s license and finishing high school. With all Corps will never really know just how much positive influence that that now behind me, I decided that I wanted to be a ‘Bay Man’ in they had on our young minds! Churchill and, eventually, in Pinawa. In 1978, I left the Hudson’s Bay To me, Snow Lake will be a place where the sun is always shining, Company and went to work as a fire fighter at the Whiteshell Nuclear and the sky blue. Research Establishment. A couple of years later, I applied to become a All the best! member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and was immediately Dennis Budz (Snow Lake 1958-1975) THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

Volume 1, Issue 4 SNOW LAKE, MANITOBA December, 2004 New book on Nor-Acme Gold One woman show STAFF The Snow Lake Art Gallery, and STAFF A new book depicting the prominent Saskatoon man who ventured to the Big Apple flower and notions shop, Sweet rise of a small gold claim on the (New York) arranging financing for Nothings, recently sponsored a one-woman shores of Snow Lake, to what may soon be the development of the claim. “We have a series of art exhibition and demonstration. It took richest gold mine in Manitoba’s history will be letters from C. R. Parres at Herb Lake to G. H. place in their shared downtown Snow Lake available to the public in the summer of 2005. Clare in New York and vice versa,” said Jim commercial space between the hours of 1:00 Mining Manitoba - The Nor-Acme Gold Parres from his home in Thunder Bay. “It’s not and 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 6, Mines Ltd. Story has a target date to be on the often you come across material like this that is 2004. shelves in June 2005, says the book’s author, involved in the making of a gold mine.” The artist, Alice Shipowich, is well known Jim Parres. The 16 chapter book will follow the Parres says that the book will be a narrative both in and around Snow Lake. She creates Nor-Acme deposit’s legacy from being staked, as well as being historical in content and will her work within a number of different medi- through the Old Britannia Mine’s closure and feature interviews with a number of the people ums, and displayed a good deal of it during subsequent phoenix like rise, to the who worked the mine back in the late forties this well attended show. In addition to ex- uncertainty and eventual continuation of the and fifties. hibiting her work, she also took brush in present day New Britannia Mine. When asked why he decided to write the hand and gave an interested and enthusiastic The manuscript also tracks the rise in book, Parres replied, “Because from 1924- 87 audience a demonstration of her considerable fortunes of the author’s grandfather, my family was so involved with the claim and skills. Christopher Richard Parres, his father, A. L. the mine. And also because it is such a great Shipowich worked on several different “Lew” Parres as well as his own, as they story in that the mine has survived one closure watercolours as a growing crowd watched in interweave through the ups and downs in the and one near closure and now it appears they awe. Subsequent to painting a small pink history of Nor-Acme’s massive low grade have found enough new, better grade ore, to flower, she showed the gathering an easy way deposit. give the mine a few more years production” to paint snow. After putting down a base of One of the things that the author feels will Mining Manitoba - The Nor-Acme Gold whitish-blue paint, a sprinkle of table salt make the book as enjoyable and interesting to Mines Ltd. Story will be available for purchase dispersed the paint and a bed of snow sud- read as it was for him to write, is a string of through the Flin Flon Library as well as a denly appeared. letters between his grandfather and a location yet to be determined in Snow Lake. She then picked up another watercolour that looked to have the beginnings of the Northern lights etched upon it. “It needs some trees,” she said. Several strokes of the Gathering history online and off brush later, trees almost magically appeared on the outer edges of the work. These were- STAFF: Tom Bridgeman is a 36 year old mill Bridgeman has sought out and purchased n’t “just” trees either, three on one side stood worker who has lived his entire life several pieces of Herb Town history through e- straight and symmetrical, while two on the within a manageable distance of the shores of bay’s online auction house. These include two opposite side leaned in and had sparse and both Snow and Wekusko Lakes. He a natural- picture post cards from the 1930’s, several uneven branches. “I’ve heard a lot of people ist of sorts and spends a great deal of his leisure envelopes commemorating the first return say that the trees up north all look the same,” time hunting, fishing, trapping and reveling in airmail flight from Herb Town to The Pas, and she commented. “But I think each one has the many things that the outdoors have to of- a stock certificate from Herb Lake Gold Mines character” fer. The man has an obvious love for the area Ltd. (the Rex mine). As she plied brushstrokes and demonstrat- and a voracious appetite for its history. So “The envelopes were about $5 or $6 a piece ed her gift, Shipowich talked back and forth much so, that he has taken it one step further from collectors in the U.S. who were selling off with varied observers. She said that she’d and has begun to collect as well as research it. parts of their collections,” explained Bridge- heard another artist say that painting in front Bridgeman says that he has always been a man. “I paid a U.S. stock collector about $22 of people was like taking your clothes off in collector of sorts, but with a keyboard and for the Rex Mine certificate and just recently public. “It makes you feel very exposed,” said mouse close at hand, the area that he searches purchased the two post cards from an antique the artist. and draws from has expanded significantly. dealer in Winnipeg for about $20. Buying For a person with her talent, Shipowich is And some of the items he has purchased have through an auction, I guess I paid the fair mar- exceedingly humble. While demonstrating certainly brought the history of the region into ket value, as items are only worth what people the art of watercolour, she maintains that perspective for him. are willing to pay for them.” anyone can do it. “Water colours are very “E-bay is the only place I have found that has Bridgeman says that he has always been fas- forgiving,” she explains. “If you make a mis- area and Herb Town (The abandoned gold cinated with history; particularly the history of take or do something that you don’t like, you mining town on the east shore of Wekusko Herb Town. “While growing up I’d listen with can just wipe or wash it off and start again.” Lake) memorabilia for sale,” said Bridgeman. “I interest to my Grandmother and Dad talk In addition to watercolours, Shipowich think it’s pretty limited and there aren’t too about Herb Town and of the characters who paints with oils, sculpts small flowers, and many items out there that are marked or are lived there,” he said. “These stories always paints various subjects on articles varying attributable to Herb Town.” (SEE HISTORY on page 3) (SHIPOWICH on page 3) December, 2004 Page 2 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

E D IT O R IA L other story of Marla’s, entitled "North of the 53rd", will be published in a magazine called Passages North in spring 2005 (the magazine is ike many people, Remembrance Day has always been a pretty based in Michigan). Marla is presently working and writing in Toron- important day on my calendar. For as long as I can recall, it has to and plans to teach overseas in 2005. been a day on which the vast human consequence and destruc- ~**~ tive magnitude of our wars and conflicts is passed on during services, Believe it or not, I had a number of people contact me in regard to last ceremonies, school studies, and classroom visits. month’s editorial. Some wanted to see the pictures that I spoke of in I can remember, as far back as grade two, the state of my family home that offering. So for those who are interested, check out the editorial for a week or so leading up to this solemn day. My father’s service med- on the Phoenix webpage. They are all posted there. als would come out from where they had been placed on November ~**~ 11th the year before. One of my brothers or I would polish them for Welcome on board to Jessica Jackson (The Flick Chick) and wel- him, while the other two watched. One of us would shine his shoes come back to Ernie Ramstead (According to Ernie). Both are refresh- and my father would dress in his Legion uniform, don those medals ing additions to our quarterly lineup. and attend a community ceremony or go to one of the five (then) schools in Thompson, Manitoba to mark the importance of November 11th. If I was lucky enough, it would be my school and I recall on one Inside — Out such occasion, watching with pride as he marched to the stage, and By: Joan Currie listening attentively as he gave his message. Back then, as is today, classes of kids would take part in the service. Every now and then I come across an article that expresses my People who weren’t veterans would take part in the colour party, and sentiments exactly. I hope this one touches you as it did me. The those who sometimes didn’t have intricate knowledge of how such world needs all the help it can get, so pass this on with love. things were done, organized the whole thing. The point back then, as ~**~ is today, was that people other than those who were being honoured From: GOD, To: My Children on Earth were the ones doing the honouring! In doing so, they were insuring RE: Idiotic Religious Rivalries that this day that we strive so hard to remember is never forgotten. My Dear Children (and believe me, that's all of you), I consider my- In the past, I’ve personally heard, and also heard of, some people who self a pretty patient guy. I mean, look at the Grand Canyon. It took were disappointed at members of a colour party who were out of step, millions of years to get it right. And about evolution? Boy, nothing is or holding their flag wrong, who weren’t wearing their blazer, or the slower than designing that whole Darwinian thing to take place, cell proper gloves. There have been other incidences where people were by cell, and gene by gene. appalled by school kids who missed a word or held the wrong cadence I've been patient through your fashions, civilizations, wars and while reciting “In Flanders Fields”. I’ve been left shaking my head in schemes, and the countless ways you take Me for granted until you get amazement at this narrow view. Certainly, Remembrance Day should yourselves into big trouble again and again. be acknowledged with all of the reverence and ritual it deserves, but I want to let you know about some of the things that are starting to these few critics aren’t seeing the larger picture. tick me off. Anyone who takes part in a ceremony honouring our veterans isn’t First of all, your religious rivalries are driving Me up a wall. Enough doing so for the pomp and glory of the post. Nor do they knowingly or already! Let's get one thing straight. These are YOUR religions, not willingly make a mistake before or while they are taking part in a cere- Mine. mony. Sometimes things such as this just happen. I feel that those I'm the whole enchilada; I'm beyond them all. Every one of your reli- who take part in acknowledging Remembrance Day do so out of a deep gions claims there is only one of Me (which by the way, is absolutely respect for veterans and all that they have done to protect our freedom. true). By taking part, they are perpetuating the act of Remembrance and But in the very next breath, each religion claims it's My favorite one. should be recognized for that service and that service alone. Bringing And each claims its bible was written personally by Me, and that all anything else into the picture is despicable. It cheapens our memories the other bibles are man-made. Oh, Me. How do I even begin to put a of departed vets and minimizes the contributions they made towards stop to such complicated nonsense? their country. Let’s not forget why we remember! Okay, listen up now. I'm your Father AND Mother, and I don't play ~**~ favorites among My children. Also, I hate to break it to you, but I don't Just as a further notation to the front-page story on Mining Manito- write. My longhand is awful, and I've always been more of a "doer" ba - The Nor-Acme Gold Mines Ltd. Story, it will have an additional anyway. So ALL of your books, including those bibles, were written by Snow Lake aspect. I have been asked, and graciously accepted, to men and women. They were inspired, remarkable people, but they also write a chapter in the book. My chapter deals with the production made mistakes here and there. I made sure of that, so that you would years and will consist of interviews with a number of men who worked never trust a written word more than your own living heart. at the Howe Sound/Old Britannia Mine. There is also a possibility that You see, one human being to me - even a bum on the street -- is I may do a further chapter on the men who still work at the New Bri- worth more than all the Holy Books in the world. That's just the kind tannia Mine. Moreover, I’ve offered to try and track down pictures and (SEE CURRIE on page 3) information in relation to the property, for Author Jim Parres. So if there is anyone out there who knows of the whereabouts of any info, pictures, or former employees of this prolific property, please point me THE Lake-Land PHOENIX in their direction. is a monthly, independent newspaper, published in ~**~ Snow Lake, Manitoba. Speaking of writing, former Snow Lake resident Marla Becking is EDITOR: Marc W. Jackson certainly becoming noted for the act. In an email she sent a month or Correspondence: P.O. Box 490, Snow Lake, MB., R0B 1M0 so back she advised that in June of 2004, she won a Newfoundland and Phone: (204)358-2887 Labrador Arts and Letters Award for short fiction with her short story email: [email protected] called "How to House a Woman". Further to this, she also won the http://www.mts.net/~mjaxon Chicago Literary Award for fiction with the same story. The story was ALL NEWS... NO FILLER published in the fall 2004 issue of Another Chicago Magazine. An- December, 2004 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX Page 3

(CURRIE from page 2) the early forties, his grandparents and father started trapping out in the of guy I am. My Spirit is not a historical thing, it's alive right here, right File Lake area. “That style of life, where you are living off the land, was- now, as fresh as your next breath. n't just a week-end experience,” he said. “It was an existence in a much Holy books and religious rites are sacred and powerful, but not more simpler time and it seems like a very interesting life to me.” so than the least of you. They were only meant to steer you in the right On the topic of the accessibility of historical information, Bridgeman direction, not to keep you arguing with each other, and certainly not to says that this is a wide ranging and amazing matter, insofar that what keep you from trusting your own personal connection with Me. used to take weeks or months to find, now only takes minutes to attain Which brings Me to My next point about your nonsense. You act like from the web. “A lifetime of info can be obtained from the net in a cou- I need you and your religions to stick up for Me or "win souls" for My ple of evenings,” he explains. “Places that I have bookmarked for infor- sake. Please, don't do Me any favors. I can stand quite well on my own, mation puposes are the Manitoba government archives, the Canadian thank you. I don't need you to defend Me, and I don't need constant National archives and Linda Butler's Herb Lake site.” credit. I just want you to be good to each other. He further explains that Manitoba’s archives site (www.gov.mb.ca/ And another thing: I don't get all worked up over money or politics, departments/html ) and the Manitoba Historical Society site so stop dragging My name into your dramas. For example, I swear to (www.mhs.mb.ca/docs/transactions/3/ manitobamining.shtml) are two Me that I never threatened Oral Roberts. I never rode in any of of his best sources of information on historical businesses, mining and Rajneesh's Rolls Royces. I never told Pat Robertson to run for presi- fur-trade ventures. Noting that some of these sites can be fine tuned dent, and I've never EVER had a conversation with Jim Baker, Jerry even further by typing Herb Town into the search engine, or by using Falwell, or Jimmy Swaggart! Of course, come Judgement Day, I certain- the names of the various mines and prominent citizens, then seeing ly intend to... what the site has to offer. The thing is, I want you to stop thinking of religion as some sort of Bridgeman also commends the mammoth amount of work that for- loyalty pledge to Me. The true purpose of your religions is so that YOU mer Herb Town and Snow Lake resident Linda Butler has done in pull- can become more aware of ME, not the other way around. Believe Me, I ing together a mass of data and photos documenting the history of know you already. I know what's in each of your hearts, and I love you Herb Town. “Linda's web site (http://www3.bc.sympatico. ca/ with no strings attached. Lighten up and enjoy Me. That's what reli- HerbLake/) is an excellent place for info,” he said. “Certainly credit gion is best for. must be given to her for the work she has done to gather mounds of What you seem to forget is how mysterious I am. You look at the information, from numerous people scattered throughout the coun- (SEE CURRIE on page 6) try.” Having recently been laid-off from the New Britannia Mine, Bridge- man plans to spend a lot of time out on his trapline (on the eastern side (SHIPOWICH from page 1) of Wekusko Lake) this winter. He states that today’s version of living from rocks to saw blades. Acknowledging a comment about one of her off the land isn’t exactly what it was 50 or 100 years ago; however, he pieces, a rock with a cat painted on it, she stated, “They make useful feels that he will be able to do some serious hunting, trapping, and and easy to care for pets.” Adding with a smile, “You can use them for fishing, while enjoying the great outdoors. “When the winter blizzards doorstops, they’re cheap to feed, and you don’t have to cleanup after hit, I'll probably be at the computer looking for info on the web,” he them.” smiles. “I’m always checking for family history, or adding to my numis- Sharon Stubbs, who alongside owner Donna Wills manages the store matic reference library. I guess I could be described as a passionate or and gallery, said this was the second such show that they have spon- even obsessive, coin collector. I have collections ranging from modern sored. Back in May of 2004, the store/gallery sponsored another “one coins and notes to ancient coins from the Greek, Roman and other early woman show” featuring local artist Elaine McAuley. Empires.” The Elaine McAuley show drew close to 100 people. During the four- Actually, a couple years back, while out at Herb Town scouting hour exposition, people not only had the chance to view McAuley’s around the old town square area with a metal detector, Bridgeman work and artistic abilities, the gallery also had prints of one of her piec- recovered an 1888 Victorian 5-cent piece, as well as a number of pen- es on hand and for sale. Additionally, McAuley sold six of the eighteen nies from the 1940's and '50's. pieces that she had on display in the gallery. Over the years, Herb Town has offered up several other gems to the The seventy or so people at the gallery’s November show were simi- man. About 15 years ago, Tom and his brother Fred bought a cabin at larly impressed with Shipowich’s work, as approximately ten pieces of Herb Town. He relates that they found a number of books and maps art and a dozen of her original cards were sold during the exhibition. connected to local mining and geology from the 1940's as well as some “She was very happy with the turnout as well as how the show went from the 20's and 30's, in one of the cabin’s out sheds. “We donated over and so were we,” said Gallery Owner, Donna Wills. most of this material to the Snow Lake Mining museum, but kept a few In addition to the Alice Shipowich Show, the Snow Lake Art Gallery items for personal use,” said Bridgeman. was home to an amazing exhibition of contemporary art quilts. The “By using these old books for reference and talking to some of the quilt display, titled “Breaking Tradition” was presented by the Manito- long-time area residents, it’s surprising the amount of history there is in ba Arts Network and sponsored by the local Aurora Borealis Arts this neck of the woods. In one book I have (a geological survey book Council and was on display there for the month of November. published in 1920), it states that the Grass River was one of the early Stubbs disclosed that she and Wills plan to hold another art show canoe routes. It is marked as the middle road to Hudson's Bay on fur- and demonstration in the spring. “It will likely be called ‘Alice and trader Peter Pond's map dated 1785. The first fairly accurate survey was friends’,” said Stubbs. “And will feature Alice and some of her stu- begun in 1794 by David Thompson who descended the river down to dents.” Both Stubbs and Wills are enthused when speaking about the Reed Lake and then crossed File Lake to the Burntwood River. In 1896, amount of artistic talent that has surfaced in the community and they J.B.Tyrrell, (of badlands and dinosaur fame) did a survey of the river, also feel that there is much more that still lies latent, waiting to be and in 1916; a detailed survey of the Wekusko Lake shoreline was discovered. done.” Regardless of whether Tom Bridgeman has gathered his historical (HISTORY from page 1) information from books found in an old shed or he has searched out and tweaked my interest.” His Grandfather worked at the Laguna mine accessed it on the internet, there is no doubt he certainly holds a and his father Stewart grew up in Herb Town. Bridgeman says it just wealth of it. struck him as a place that seemed full of colorful individuals. And he is only too willing to share. The young historian says that when the Laguna Mine shut down in December, 2004 Page 4 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

With no N.H.L. hockey in sight and none likely to be played this year unless the players change their stance (got that from a very reliable The Flick Chick... By: Jessica Jackson source), I have been watching and reading a lot more about the Mani- toba Moose. The American league has really benefited from the lock- If there is one thing that really bothers me about critics, it’s the movie out. Quite a few players that would normally be playing in the big time reviews they write and I read. Now, I don’t consider myself a movie are now playing with their farm teams in this league. The Moose are fanatic, but of course both my Mom and Dad think I watch too many. also playing in a brand new arena that would make most of the N.H.L. Lately, I’ve found that every movie I’ve enjoyed, has received bad re- franchises jealous. At cost of 133 million it should be. If you are ever in views. Whenever I tell my Dad that I want to see that new movie he Winnipeg, try and take in a hockey game or concert; you’ll see for your- seems to always reply with, “Why? I heard it got bad reviews.” self what a gorgeous piece of construction it is. When asked to write my own review for a movie, I thought it would Another sporting attraction that a person should take in while in be a decent way to try my own hand at being a movie critic. Choosing Winnipeg is baseball. The Goldeyes are a very good and entertaining which movie I wanted to talk about didn’t take much time. I chose a ball club. If the game is a little dull, Goldy is there to keep you awake movie that I really enjoyed, and a movie that I think everyone needs to while treats and prizes are passed out almost every inning. There’s see at least once. Fahrenheit 9/11 was a real eye opener for me. I didn’t entertainment for the whole family and not a bad seat in the Park. really follow along with all the aftermath once the tragedies on 9/11 Tickets and parking are very reasonable and the brand of ball is great. took place. Until watching this Michael Moore film; I knew absolutely The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are trying to build a new stadium, nothing about who George Bush was, or of his involvement combating which may be located out by the racetrack. However, if they keep and fueling terrorism in Islamic countries. It scared me when I learned missing the playoffs, they won’t need one. They were a big disappoint- from this movie, that Mr. Bush had a special relationship with the Bin- ment this year and I am sure Mayor Zamzow is walking around town ladens. It also doesn’t really sit comfortably with me knowing that the with a bag over his head. And so he should, with all the yapping he president of the United States has had business agreements with the does about how great the Bombers are. Yeah… yeah, I know, wait until family who may have caused the death of thousands of innocent people next year right. Sounds just like Leclair about his Bruins and Stabback through terrorist attacks. about his Leafs. The attacks of September 11th snowballed into a war on terrorism. Every year you hear the same thing from those two, then the Bruins George W. Bush has sent numerous troops off to fight in the senseless end up playing the Canadians in the first round and lose. Same thing and unjust war that they spurned, yet he still has not attended one with Stabback’s Leafs, they play Ottawa, win and start planning the funeral for the many soldiers who were killed in battle. Stanley Cup parade. Then along come Philly and the Leafs join the In the movie, Moore shows us the exact moment President Bush Bruins on the golf course. Deep down Leclair and Stabback are proba- found out about the attacks. He sat, and tried to act like nothing was bly glad there is no hockey. You think the Boston Red Sox went a long wrong, even after aids told him about the second attack. The movie time without winning the World Series. Just wait and see how long it also notes that Bush happens to be the president who has taken the is before the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs win a Stanley most vacations in history. One of these vacations just happened to be a Cup. Not in our life time and you can take that to the bank. twenty eight day fun fest, right before the 9/11 attacks took place. With Rick Leclair now in Flin Flon, I am sure we will hear how well Moore did a very good job of showing the attacks. He didn’t show his other team, the Flin Flon Bombers, are doing. That will leave Stab- them actually taking place, but gave a more dramatic feeling just by back to update us outsiders on how all the Snow Lake boys are doing showing the reactions of the bystanders. playing for other teams. I wish them all luck and the same to all the The best part of the movie would have to be Bush’s talk with the local sport teams. media about his serious dedication to fighting terrorism; Bush then With no hockey season and no hockey pools to enter I am running a stops and says, “Now watch this drive,” turning his attention back to simulated one. The results up to Nov. 20/04 were as follows: E. Ram- something obviously more important; his golf game. stead 432, K. Baird 388, G. Weir 382, G. Foord 373, W. Galiz 264, C. Michael Moore did an excellent job of uncovering some hidden facts. Rolles 253, D. Hart 349, R. Bartlett 347, B. Alcorn 342, C. Richard 331, He brings up a lot of dramatic issues, and adds some emotion into L. Fisher 326, R. Leclair 101, T. Stabback 86, G. Zamzow 47, and C. parts. After watching it, you may think there’s some bias to it, and Dunning 22. Welcome back Ernie… we missed you. MJ there is, but he does bring out the truth. This movie is definitely worth watching twice, because you’ll learn a A Lakeside Perspective by: Barrie lot more even the second time, while continuing to appreciate and be Taylor proud of the fact that you are a Canadian. Are our highway speed limits realistic? “ACCORDING TO by: Ernie The speed limits on our highways haven't changed in over 50 years. Ramstead Meanwhile, auto manufacturers have been constantly making our auto- Ernie” mobiles safer. I'm sure most people have heard the phrase "Speed kills". That phrase may be relevant in many contexts; however I believe it is When Marc offered, I had to think a while about returning to the false in relation to our highways. It’s not speed that kills; it 's how it is Sports lineup, but then when I thought about the other four who are handled. taking their turn every month (unless of course you miss a deadline like My view is: Leclair) I didn’t figure it would be a problem. When the problem is approached from the right perspective, I think The editor has sure recruited a bunch of losers to write about sports speed limits could be increased to reflect safer vehicles and better in his fine paper. One of them (Leclair) “practices” curling. Another roads. My solution would involve issuing a driver’s license only after (Stabback) plays glow volleyball. Another still (Wooley), plays goal the applicant has demonstrated their ability to handle the vehicle un- for a women's hockey team and tells people about it. And the one I der a strict set of guidelines. I also believe that a driver’s test should replaced (Gusporchuck) once had a break away while playing hockey have to be retaken every 10 years, up to the age of 50, and every 5 years by the old pump house on Snow Lake and was not heard from for four after that. hours. His sister Cammie found him down at Snow Creek playing hockey there. And finally there’s me, I went to school for twelve years Those who make peaceful revolution impossible will make and got my grade eight. violent revolution inevitable. ~ John F. Kennedy December, 2004 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX Page 5

THE CHAMBERS by: Marc Mayor Zamzow opened the November 16th regular meeting of coun- Jackson cil at 6:30 p.m. All council members (other than Councilor Chrapun) Mayor Zamzow opened the November 2, 2004 regular meeting of and Assistant Administrator Erickson were in attendance. council at 6:30 p.m. All council members (other than Councilors Chra- Under Delegations on the agenda, The Cabin Owners Association pun and Jackson) and Assistant Administrator Erickson were in at- (COA), represented by Lillian Haines and Leone Langan and Craig tendance. Hanley of Intergovernmental Affairs Community Planning Services Under Business Arising from the Minutes, Mrs. Erickson informed appeared before council. The appearance was a follow up to August council that she has contacted Glen Otto in relation to finishing up discussions that the council and cabin owners held in relation to the water meter and reading pad installations. He advised that he is will- development of a new cabin subdivision on Wekusko Lake. In re- ing to work doing this during his time off. He will be home for three- sponse to the COA’s concerns about the aesthetic value of a new subdi- week periods during time off. The Administrator will again contact the vision directly across from the Berry Bay subdivision and low water in Manitoba Water Services Board in regard to cost sharing these installa- the area, council agreed at the time to look at three alternate proposals. tion costs. The Curling Rink hydro usage was discussed. The club has The three areas suggested were: The west side of Snow Lake, Wedges received a copy of the hydro bill and council reviewed the bill amounts Point on Wekusko, and the North End of Anderson Bay. After that from January 2004 to present. It was stated that something must have initial meeting, council submitted the proposals to the planning branch been left on during the summer in order to cause the type of consump- and asked that they determine the feasibility of placing subdivisions in tion noted. Council will meet with the club to determine what can be those three locations. Making his assumptions from topographical done to bring down the bills. Mrs. Erickson informed council that she maps Hanley stated that “Anderson Point and Wedges Point would be has contacted Flin Flon and Thompson and they do not allow out side very expensive to build and even more expensive to maintain and that wood heating appliances within their city limits. The dense smoke they the west side of Snow Lake was not likely to provide marketable sites give off and safety issues were of concern to them. The communities because of the small area of the lake, its proximity to the townsite and both passed their by-laws under health and protection. She further the extreme slope conditions.” Haines explained the COA’s aversion to advised of a conversation, which she had with a gentlemen from south- the location that council was proposing and added that after walking ern Manitoba. He indicated that these appliances were also prohibited that area the weekend before, she felt some of the lots there would also in some of their locations. The use of these appliances was referred to be unsuitable due to rock ridges. She read a prepared statement in Protection Committee. Other communities will be asked for copies of relation to how the COA sees things proceeding in relation to the de- their bylaws pertaining to wood burning appliances. velopment of lots on the lake, Mayor Zamzow thanked the groups for Under the Mayor’s Report, Mayor Zamzow updated council on a attending and the council resumed its regular order of business. meeting held between available council members and Conservation Under councilors reports on the agenda, Councilor Mayer informed Manitoba. He stated that the 2003 Wekusko Lake netting survey was council members unable to attend of the meeting that was held with discussed. Zamzow said that the survey will continue next year and the Mens and Ladies’ Curling Clubs in relation to hydro billings at the that statistically there has been little change in the state of the lake. In curling rink. Several good suggestions resulted from the meeting as several week’s time, Conservation will issue a press release on the sub- well as a concerted effort from all stakeholders to reduce electrical ject. The Mayor also reported on the activities of the Forest Resource consumption in the town owned facility. Councilor Powell apprised Advisory Committee (FRAC). He said that at the present Tolko is not council of the minimal number of gravesites that are presently available very active in the area. However, in December they will begin hauling to citizens of the community. He advised that expansion was a possi- timber out of area OZ8 (2003 Osborne Lake cut). He said Tolko bility, but that direction was required from council. A meeting dis- would advertise that their trucks will be on the road and that local cussing the alternatives was to take place on November 17th. residents can pick up salvage. Their cutting plans are for the area of The Assistant Administrator’s Report was received for filing. Mrs. OZ5 (Osborne Lake mine area), and they may access the Woosey/ Erickson advised that she has tried, unsuccessfully, to contact Syl Morton area in the future. They may be implementing a spraying pro- Borsch in The Pas about the installation of a light at the junction of #39 gram, and notification will be given in advance of this program starting. and #392 roadways. Council directed her to contact someone higher Additionally, the forester is studying a replant in their Osborne Lake up as all council members are adamant that for safety of the traveling cutting area. public a light must be placed at this corner. The Assistant Administrator’s Report was received for filing. Mrs. In Other Matters, Councilor Jackson asked if the letter to the govern- Erickson reported that she has rescheduled a meeting with Council, ment in regard to the sale of HBM&S to OntZinc had been sent yet. Craig Hanley of Community Planning Services and Cabin Owners As- Mayor Zamzow stated that he was in the process of wording it. Jack- sociation. The new date is November 16. son asked that the letter be available to council for perusal before it is Under Correspondence a letter was received from Taylor Bay resi- sent. Jackson also asked that a letter be written to Hydro making the dent Jason Genik in respect to what he called, “the sudden burn ban community’s case for notional funding in relation to construction of the imposed on Taylor Bay Road.” He said that he was fully aware of the proposed Wuskawatim power line. Hydro has said that the money is incident that had occurred, provoking concern, but that he found coun- only available to First Nations communities affected by the construc- cil’s response drastic and inappropriate. He stated that when he pur- tion. Councilor Powell asked what council was prepared to do in order chased his property, one of the first concerns that he dealt with was to purge the mildew odor that permeates the town offices during the what he would be able to do with the brush he cleared from his proper- spring and fall. Mr. Cann advised that he would move the fresh air ty. He said he was told that he could burn it during winter months and intake and this should improve the situation. Powell also asked if the that Natural Resources confirmed that it was safe to do so. He closed local business that was interested in putting an RV park in town was stating that he had faith in the council and it's member’s ability to still interested. Mrs. Erickson will inquire. Councilor Cairns gave come up with a compromising solution to the issue. Notice of motion notice of motion for the next meeting on rescinding the resolution that was given to reconsider council’s resolution (banning any burning by banned burning on cabin lots. She also asked that Frontier be contact- residents) at the November 16th council meeting. ed and asked what the 2005 educational mill rate will be. Mrs. Erick- In other matters, it has been ascertained that a dog that concerns son stated that Mr. Graham has said that he will take the Building were brought forward about is not a Pit bull Terrier, but is in fact an Inspector’s position. Mayor Zamzow asked if council was in favour of American Bulldog. This is not a prohibited breed within the limits of giving turkeys to all staff at Christmas. Council agreed. He also asked the Town of Snow Lake. that Mrs. Erickson confirm that the parcel of land behind the ~**~ Brookside Cemetery belongs to the town. December, 2004 Page 6 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

It should be noted that making a false 911 call constitutes the Crimi- Tech Talk by: Clarence Fisher nal Code of Canada offence of Conveying False Messages, which could result in a court appearance and criminal record. Two Things The benefits and conveniences of being a part of the 911 system are How many times have you visited a website that asks you for your immeasurable. Intentionally, abusing 911 could quite easily result in email address, so that the company can send you a registration pass- delaying the response of emergency services to someone who truly word you will never use again? I can make up an email address as quick needs medical or other help. as the next guy, but I actually need the password they want to send The RCMP requests that all parents or guardians clearly explain the me. What I don’t need is all of the spam that usually goes along with it. significance of the 911 system to their children and that any abuse of the A solution has now arrived. service will not be tolerated by they, themselves, or the RCMP. Mailinator.com is a website that creates disposable email addresses. — Corporal Bob MacKnight You can make up an email address on the fly Traffic Matters: ([email protected] for example) and it turns into a real ad- Over the last month, several traffic related issues have arisen, and we dress. How the service works is very simple. The servers at mailinator would like to share them with you. simply accept any and all email that has mailinator in the address. Af- For some reason or another, there are several vehicles in the area that ter you give someone an address, you go to the mailinator website, are failing to display a front license plate. The Highway Traffic Act login, and collect the email. Mailinator addresses can be used no more states that all registered passenger vehicles in Manitoba must display than once and only for the receipt of email; you cannot send anything both front and rear plates. Failing to adequately display your front li- from a mailinator address. cense plate may result in a fine of $80. The advantage to this is the complete lack of the spam that often Another issue that has come to police attention is that there are sev- accompanies the registration processes. When anyone attempts to use eral vehicles in the area that have excessive tint on their windows. The this address in the future, all email is simply deleted. Not good, if you Highway Traffic Act states that all windows from the vehicle’s B-Pillar, gave the address out at a party to more than one person, but great to (shoulder area), forward must allow the transmission of at least 50% keep unwanted email away. light. If the police stop you and your vehicle is found to have excessive I’ve discovered a new addiction; podcasting. Basically, podcasts are tint, you may be facing a $130 fine, and you will be asked to remove the amateur radio shows, MP3 files that are automatically downloaded to a tint. (Police determine the level of tint by using a tint-meter.) computer and then pushed into an MP3 player such as an iPod. This It has also been brought to our attention that there have been several phenomena is absolutely exploding. Sites such as podcast alley, pod- occasions where parking spots reserved for the disabled have been used cast.com, and ipodder.com have grown immensely in popularity. by non-permitted vehicles. Should you be found parked in one of these Just as written blogs took off to the point where now there are mil- spots without a permit, you may be ticketed. It should also be noted lions of them, podcasts, which are audio blogs, are beginning to ex- that these spaces are reserved for permit holders 24 hours per day, not pand. A great place to check out podcasts is http://audio.weblogs.com. just during daytime hours. A magistrate will determine the fine in these This site lists the latest 100 podcasts uploaded onto the internet. instances, as this offence requires a visit to a court office. Police ask What I love about them is the completely automatic way in which that you please leave these spots open for those who require them. they work. When I turn my laptop on in the mornings, the ipodder Lastly, we would like to talk about vehicle lighting. We would like to software automatically checks the feeds I subscribe to, looking for new remind motorists that, with the exception of emergency services vehi- broadcasts. When I sync my iPod with my laptop, the shows move to cles, it is illegal to display any coloured lights towards the front of your it. Then I have new broadcasts to listen to as I walk home from work, vehicle. In fact displaying any after market coloured lighting on the or when I am cooking supper at night. exterior of your vehicle, (i.e. neon license plate surround), may land you Three of my favourites are still about computers, although many an $80 ticket. others are available. The Daily Source Code with Adam Curry, previ- We ask that anyone having other traffic related concerns that they ously of MTV fame, focuses on his life, podcasting, and indie music. would like brought up, please contact the local RCMP. Evil Genius Chronicles focuses on computer topics and thoughts re- — Cst. Kevin Mantie garding anything in the industry. Finally, IT Conversations provides an interesting round-up of presentations to do with computers, which are (CURRIE from page 3) made almost anywhere in the world. A bit academic at times, it pro- petty differences in your Scriptures and say, "Well, if THIS is the truth, vides interesting listening to cutting-edge research and presentations then THAT can't be!" But instead of trying to figure out My Paradoxes by major players in the computer industry. and Unfathomable Nature—which by the way, you NEVER will—why Need an address or some new entertainment? The preceding hopeful- not open your hearts to the simple common threads in all religions. ly includes two pieces of information you can use. ([email protected]) You know what I'm talking about: Love and respect everyone. Be kind, even when life is scary or confusing, take courage and be of good POLICE REPORT By: Cpl. Bob MacKnight cheer, for I am always with you. Learn how to be quiet, so you can hear and Cst. Kevin Mantie My still, small voice (I don't like to shout). Leave the world a better place by living your life with dignity and gracefulness, for you are My Calling 911 Is No Joke! During the past month, the RCMP have re- Own Child. Hold back nothing from life, for the parts of you that can sponded to three abandoned 911 calls, all of which were determined to die surely will, and the parts that can't, won't. So don't worry, be happy be false. In each instance, the person(s) responsible were believed to (I stole that last line from Bobby McFerrin, but who do you think gave have been youths who may not have been fully aware of the conse- it to him in the first place?) quences of their actions. It is apparent that what some may perceive as Simple stuff. Why do you keep making it so complicated? It's like being a harmless joke, is most certainly not to the emergency services you're always looking for an excuse to be upset. And I'm very tired of personnel who are required to respond to these calls. being your main excuse. Do you think I care whether you call me Yah- The origin of all 911 calls is identified upon receipt at the 911 Dispatch weh, Jehovah, Allah, Wakantonka, Brahma, Father, Mother or even the Centre in Brandon. The RCMP are immediately advised of and respond Void of Nirvana? Do you think I care which of My special children you to all 911 calls, which are identified as being incomplete, regardless of feel closest to—Jesus, Mary, Buddha, Krishna, Mohammed or any of the whether the calls are believed to be false. The appropriate action, en- others? You can call Me and My Special Ones any name you choose, if forcement or otherwise, is then taken. only you would go about My business of loving one another as I love (SEE CURRIE on page 7) December, 2004 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX Page 7

For Those Who Believe by: Becky all. And I don't want you to combine all the Great Traditions in One Ainsworth Big Mess. Each religion is unique for a reason. Each has a unique style so that people can find the best path for themselves. But My Special Children—the ones that your religions revolve Before continuing on with my “story,” begun last month, I have some- around—all live in the same place {My heart) and they get along per- thing fresh to share, (just dropped into my lap -- so to speak -- yester- fectly, I assure you. The clergy must stop creating a myth of sibling day, by friend Shirley), which may in turn give you something fresh to rivalry where there is none. share… After all, this is a special (so says our culture anyway) gift- My blessed children of Earth, the world has grown too small for your giving time of year and all… pervasive religious bigotries and confusion. The whole planet is con- The something is the newest book by John Bevere, which I’ve begun nected by air travel, satellite dishes, telephones, fax machines, rock to suspect would be beneficial to any Christian. For that matter, this concerts, diseases, and mutual needs and concerns. Get with the pro- could be interesting material for a non-Christian also. gram! If you really want to help then commit yourselves to figuring out I’m going to give a taste here of what the first three chapters of this how to feed your hungry, clothe your naked, protect your abused, and book contain. If you want to hear it all, well then, the books/CD’s are shelter your poor. there for the buying. And just as importantly, make your own everyday life a shining ex- Chapter one, of Drawing Near, is based on James 4:8 and titled, “The ample of kindness and good humor. I've given you all the resources you Greatest Invitation of all Time.” It’s pretty incredible that the Creator need, if only you abandon your fear of each other and begin living, lov- of the universe actually requests our presence! We are told, “he is a ing, and laughing together. God who is passionate about his relationship with you.” (Exodus 34:14 Finally, My Children everywhere, when you think of the life of Jesus NLT) That’s the “taste” for chapter one. and the fearlessness with which He chose to live and die. As I love Him, Chapter two, titled “God’s Pursuit,” contains a verse I’d never so do I love each one of you. I'm not really ticked off, I just wanted to thought about much before -- get this: God’s thoughts of us (as pointed grab your attention because I hate to see you suffer. out by David in Psalms 139:17-18 NLT), outnumber the grains of sand! John But I gave you free will; I just want you to be happy. Always. says, “Think on it a moment; imagine every granule of sand collected Trust in Me. Your One and Only, God — from Conversations with from the entire planet; every beach, desert, lake, sea, and ocean floor, God. and of course every golf course…” Well, I think you get the idea. Chapter three: “Protect your Hunger” John says right at the beginning, “We will hunger for what we feed on.” When I saw this, I thought, “Now that is something to ponder. Wow. I think I’ll post that little sentence on our fridge.” [Note here to homemakers: You Jason William Walter Jennings Jason Jennings, 23, passed away October 21, 2004 at Bakers Narrows, Mani- never know what effect those little notes will have on somebody hap- toba. pening by, including yourself.] Enough said for chapter three. A funeral service was held at 1:00 p.m. on October 28, 2004 in the Lawrie All I have to do now is find time to absorb all this before librarian Marsh Community Hall in Snow Lake, Manitoba with Pastor Rempel officiat- Shirley is caught up enough to catalogue! [My personal finances are ing. currently strapped, though Edmonton has plenty of bookstores. If your Interment took place on October 29, 2004 at the Moosehorn Cemetery in situation is the opposite of mine, you can phone 1-800-648-1477 Moosehorn, Manitoba. (Canada and U.S.) or look this up at www.johnbevere.org ] ~**~ Continuing now from the November column: I was a young single Ryan Nolan Ferguson missionary in St. Lucia, definitely still excited about my life with God Ryan Ferguson, 24, passed away October 21, 2004 at Bakers Narrows, Mani- toba. which was about two years old…I knew that “Jesus is the answer!” in A funeral service was held at 1:00 p.m. on October 30, 2004 in the Lawrie fact remember one aerogramme in particular written to my church Marsh Community Hall in Snow Lake, Manitoba. “back home” which emphasized this point. (Not sure why I was telling Interment took place on October 30, 2004 at the Brookside Cemetery in them, however.) Looking back now, I realize I had a great deal of intel- Snow Lake, Manitoba. lectual knowledge of Christianity, along with some emotion, certainly; but mostly it was still all in my head. Then, too, overseas living for me has always been adventurous compared to this rather tame and oh-so-ordinary North American stuff. Looking Back at the... When my closest sister sent word (to St. Lucia) of her upcoming mar- by: Cathy Stabback Anglican-United Church riage, I figured there was no way I could or would attend, though she would have my blessing. My team leader urged me to reconsider, in The Snow Lake Anglican-United Church has undergone many fact issued a challenge: “If God provides the means, will you go?” I still changes since its inception in 1951. When the first few citizens settled balked, but finally agreed. Lo and behold, not many days later he said in Snow Lake, it became apparent that there was a need to meet for the means were in place, tickets bought, and I was going. (So I went, Christian worship. At the time, the Anglican Parish of St. Francis of ten days in and out. It was my first solo flying. That missed plane in Assissi held their worship services in the school. Father John Patrick San Juan is a story in itself.) Afterwards I was so relieved to be back on was the first Anglican priest in this young mining community and he my beloved island, and so happy I did not miss the hurricane, with all was responsible for the construction of their original Parish Church. its accompanying adventures. (That was Hurricane Allen in August of It began when the old Hudson’s Bay store was purchased and moved 1980.) [To be further continued next time.] to the present church location. The building was then refurbished with the help of Howe Sound Exploration Co., the town administrator, (CURRIE from page 6) and all of the local Anglicans, which at the time consisted of two. you. How can you keep neglecting something so simple? Building materials for the church were salvaged from a number of I'm not telling you to abandon your religions. Enjoy your religions, places. The lumber came from the demolition of five houses from the honor them, learn from them, just as you should enjoy, honor, and learn old Tent Town. The wiring came from the lifeless mine in Sherridon, from your parents. But do you walk around telling everyone that your and finishing materials came from the Sherridon Hotel. The pews, parents are better than theirs? Your religion, like your parents, may organ, and other items came from a church near Brandon. This small always have the most special place in your heart; I don't mind that at (SEE LOOKBACK on page 8) December, 2004 Page 8 THE LAKE-LAND PHOENIX

(LOOKBACK from page 7) service took place; it was conducted by Bishop Norris from Brandon but special building served its purpose from 1951 to 1965. and Rev. John Freeman from Northminister United Church in Flin Flon. As the community grew, there became a need for a larger building. From 1969 until 1983 this church was known as the Christian Centre. St. Henri’s Catholic Church in the abandoned mining town of Herb In ‘83 it was given its present name, the Snow Lake Anglican-United Lake appeared to be the perfect structure. However, the building had Church. to be moved over nine miles of ice and slush and a few miles of winding In the beginning, the Anglican and United members worshipped in road. A road was cleared across Wekusko Lake with the help of John the same building, served by the same minister, but at different times. Highmoor of Flin Flon and Nick Britsky of Ochre River. The children all attended the same Sunday School, but the churches had The building was successfully moved and replaced the old church on separate Councils. Slowly over the next few years the two amalgamat- March 5, 1967. At this time the Anglican and United Church congrega- ed into one. tions began to discuss the many reasons for sharing a common church. To this day, the congregation may be small, but they still come to- The United Church members as well as members from other denom- gether weekly to worship and work. They have, for the past several inations had been meeting in the Community Hall since the mid 50’s. years, taken on the recycling program in Snow Lake. With the money In 1959 the Community Church officially became the United Church. realized from this they have been able to purchase new windows and It had been a very active church served by Dick Kendall, their first doors, which were installed with volunteer labour. The efforts of their resident minister. After Mr. Kendall left the community, a visiting recycling will also pay for siding that will be installed in the spring. minister from Creighton, Saskatchewan periodically served the Eric Matheson, the United minister from 1981 to 1983, wrote and I Church. Around the same time as the United Church was without a quote, “The Anglican-United Church in Snow Lake has not had an easy minister, Stuart Anderson moved to Snow Lake to become the lay min- road to travel on its ecumenical journey, but there are no signs of want- ister for the Anglican Church. So in 1965 the two denominations being to go back. In a way that speaks of their strong Christian faith and gan to look toward a shared ministry. their strong sense of community, they hold together the unique gifts Once the church from Herb Lake was moved to Snow Lake, the two that each member and each denomination brings. They are in St. Paul’s churches decided to share the expenses of materials and labour to re- own words, “one body” in Jesus Christ.” build the St. Henri’s Church. On January 19, 1969 after this church was Thank you to Janice Becking for her assistance in making this story possible. rebuilt and painted white with red doors and red trim, a dedication

such a great job up there. What Ever Happened to... During my three years in Snow Lake, some of the locals that I was Rob Fiola fortunate to get to know were: Joanne Tchozewski, Rick Stoltz, Kelly Fulmore, Kim Dodds, Susan Barr, Karen Fey, Rod Fisher, and Karen First, hello to all the good people of Snow Lake! Secondly, thanks to Stubbs. Marc Jackson for asking me to do this article for his paper. September 28, 1982 was my last day of work for H.B., as I had been My name is Rob Fiola and I lived in Snow Lake from September 1979 hired by I.M.C., the potash company back home. – September 1982. The same year I moved home, my soon to be wife Lynda moved back It all started in mid September 1979, with an ad in the Yorkton paper to Churchbridge from Revelstoke, B.C. This October I will have 22 stating that an H.B.M.&S. rep was to be at the human resources office years at I.M.C. Lynda and I have two teenage daughters, Brittany (14) in Yorkton. Unable to make it there due to work, I made an appoint- and Hiedi (11). Lynda is employed at the local Co-Op grocery store and ment to meet Ken Radford later at his hotel. After showing up and I am a welder at I.M.C. Both Brittany and Hiedi are active in sports. In filling out an application, I was told to report the following week for winter, Brittany speed-skates out of the Melville Speed Skating Club my medical in Flin Flon. and Hiedi dances out of Churchbridge Leaps and Bounds Club. In the After that it was on the bus to Snow Lake. I knew nothing about the summer, both girls are local and Provincial Fastball pitchers. With place except I had an Aunt who had an Aunt and Uncle by the name of both Lynda and I busy running with the girls, we really don’t have any Bill and Mary Semaniuk living in Snow Lake. At the junction, a shuttle hobbies. driven by Shirley Chell took me to town. When I left Snow Lake, I curled for a couple of years, played rec. My first memory of Snow Lake is coming into town and seeing the hockey, managed the senior hockey team for quite a few years, and sign on the water tower, which read, “Slow Lake”. I was dropped off at scouted hockey players for a number of junior teams. The teams I have the company office and was met by safety supervisors Hughie Bunn scouted for are: Lethbridge Hurricanes and Regina Pats of the W.H.L., and Gunner Johannson. My first day was September 28, 1979, my first and Melville Millionaires, and Kindersley Klippers of the S.J.H.L. I still job was at Stall Lake on 2800, and my first boss was Jim Mihalicz. do a little scouting for the Missouri River Otters (V.H.L.) who are After three weeks at Stall, I bid on and received the cage tender/skip coached by a former Churchbridge resident. tender position at Osborne Lake Mine. Some of my fellow workers and Up until going back for Geordie Robertson’s funeral, it had been supervisors at the time were: Tim McCormick, Don Milburn, Charlie fifteen years since I was last in Snow Lake. A lot of the younger people Strasser, Jim Sawicki, Moe Nogier, Bud McIntosh, Pete Medd and Ab from the late seventies, early eighties are either in Flin Flon or have left Schellenberg. the town. There were still faces I recognized and some I wouldn’t have After a year at Osborne, I bid on and received a scoop operator’s posi- recognized, but unfortunately there was very little time to visit as I had tion back at Stall. This is where I met my new shift boss, Geordie Rob- a six-hour drive back home. ertson. To this day, along with being one of the best men I have ever Then again, I am still kept up on Snow Lake news, thanks to former met, he was also the best foreman I have ever had. Fellow workers and Snow Lake resident and current Churchbridge resident, Karen (Fey) shift bosses at Stall included; Geordie, Cliff Harris, Ron Langan, Dave Choptuik. Kendall, Lee Thomas, Bill (Lumpy) Gerrard, and Ernie Lamontagne. In closing, I would like to say that during my three years in Snow Recreation in the winter always involved curling at the excellent Lake, I met many great people and have many great memories. It was club that Snow Lake had. Some of the people I curled with at the Snow three years I will never forget. Hope it doesn’t take another fifteen Lake club and on out of town bonspiels were: Geordie, Mike Wiwcha- years to get back there. If interested, our email and phone number in ruk, Wayne Galiz, Bud McIntosh, Charlie Strasser, Bob Cooper, Ross Churchbridge is: [email protected] (306) 896-2447 Schellenberg, Robert Medd, and Craig Hornyak. Also, I have many Rob Fiola great memories of the curling club lounge. Audrey (Robertson) did