Caring, Sharing, and Daring Caring, Sharing, and Daring Was the Theme of Ficulty Because: the Manitoba Women’S Institute 2016 Conven- 1

MWI NEWS JUNE 2016

Vol. 99 No.4 JUNE 2016 1129 Queens Avenue, Brandon, Manitoba Canada R7A 1L9 www.mbwi.ca

Caring, Sharing, and Daring Caring, Sharing, and Daring was the theme of ficulty because: the Manitoba Women’s Institute 2016 Conven- 1. Financial costs are rising tion held on May 6 and 7 at Elkhorn Resort, 2. Community trust has been lost Clear Lake. Almost 100 women gathered to do 3. CFS is under heightened media scrutiny and the business of the AGM, but the gathering was most of it is negative much more than business — it was an uplifting CFS Western is a non-government, non-profit event, filled with agency that is learning, dia- 117 years old. logue, and pure In 2015, 139 Inside this issue: joy. children were Along with the placed in care Cash calendar 2 usual agenda, the with 44 percent From your President 3 convention in- returned to the ACWW/MWI 6 cluded a few home within a Rural Women’s Day 7 different activi- month. Dave ties. The first gave an over- Eastern Region 8 was a “mixer” view of the MWI Board news 9 where the at- many programs Bulletin Board 9 tendees were offered by the Regional conventions 10 seated at colour- agency. He also coded tables ably answered Convention sponsors 12 with the oppor- a number of tunity to meet questions. and visit with The second women they may speaker was not have known Deva Marie previously. An- (l-r) Ann Mandziuk, Her Honour Janice Filmon, and Donna Young at the conven- Beck who is a other new feature tion banquet on May 6, 2016. Co-Director of was the Jewelry Nightingale and Scarf Swap, a fun activity where women Initiative for Global Health (NIGH). Deva began could swap a piece of jewelry or a scarf for her nursing career in the 1970s in California; someone else’s jewelry or scarf. After the initial twenty years later she became concerned about swap, items were sold for $2 each; all remaining global issues and, through a series of events, she items were donated to Samaritan House in Bran- became “hooked” on Florence Nightingale. She don. realized that Florence Nightingale was not just a After the mixer on Friday afternoon, the mem- nurse in the Crimean War; she was the first per- bers settled in to hear three knowledgeable son in the late 1800s and early 1900s to vocalize speakers. Dave McGregor, CEO of Child and the importance of health determinants such as Family Services of Western Manitoba (CFS poverty, hunger, unemployment, housing, and Western), did an excellent job of explaining what education. NIGH is using the legacy of Nightin- most people know very little about — the Child gale to promote awareness of global issues, ad- and Family Service system in Manitoba. Did you vocating for positive change to improve health know that there are 28 CFS agencies in the prov- world wide. Deva Marie was accompanied to the ince? Dave started his presentation with a history convention by her husband, Wayne Kines, who lesson about the residential school system and took part in the ensuing conversation. the “60s scoop”. These are important factors The third speaker of the afternoon was Jennifer because 90 percent of “kids in care” are aborigi- Poulain who works for BMO Global Asset Man- nal. CFS agencies across the province are in dif- (Continued on page 4)

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Manitoba Women’s Institute Manitoba Women’s Institute Executive Administrator: Joni Swidnicki 1129 Queens Avenue, Brandon R7A 1L9 APRIL 2016 Cash Calendar Draw Winners 204-726-7135 Fax 204-726-6260 Draw Date: May 13, 2016 E-mail [email protected] Website www.mbwi.ca 1 $200 Clearwater WI 17 $25 Helen Derhak Provincial Board 2016-2017 2 $25 Gale Johnson 18 $25 Jim & Kathy 3 $25 Shelagh Polischuk Tomlinson President: Ann Mandziuk, Box 264, Minnedosa, R0J 1E0 204-966-3829 [email protected] 4 $25 Heather Klassen 19 $25 Marge Knutson President-Elect: Denise Joss, Box 1632, Lac du Bonnet 5 $25 Janice Klassen 20 $25 Rob Stienwandt R0E 1A0 204-345-5288 [email protected] 6 $25 Cherie Chikousky 21 $25 Jean Michaluk 7 $25 Agnes Enberg 22 $25 Heather Grant Regional Representatives: Eastern: Rose Bodz, Box 1010, St. Malo, R0A 1T0 8 $25 Clearwater WI 23 $25 Betty Iverson 204-347-5428 [email protected] 9 $25 Jocelyn Grant 24 $25 Diane Hildebrandt Northwest: Peggy Bradshaw, Box 278, Binscarth 10 $25 Anne Augustine 25 $25 Agnes Mawgie R0J 0G0 204-532-2265 [email protected] 11 $25 Katy Stewart 26 $25 June Kopys Southwest A: Arenda Vanderdeen, Box 156, Rapid City R0K 1W0 204-826-2626 [email protected] 12 $25 Cliff Nichols 27 $25 Elsie Butler Southwest B: Audrey Clark, Box 13, Lyleton, R0M 1G0 13 $25 Selma Skoglund 28 $25 Alex Hrychuk 204-649-2258 [email protected] 14 $25 Ina Mazinke 29 $50 Kathie Geekie Wpg-Interlake: Valerie Watt, Box 160, Inwood R0C 1P0 15 $75 Gertrude Carols 30 $25 Eleanor Willis 204-278-3714 [email protected] Drectors-at-large: 16 $25 Marsha Chanin Maren Mueller, Box 53, Arnaud, R0A 0B0 204-427-2487 [email protected] Heather Klassen, 4-2 Windmill Way, Winnipeg, R3R 3A1 204-391-5054 [email protected] The winning names were drawn by MWI Past President Donna Young; U of M, Department of Human Nutritional Sciences: Dr. Joyce Slater 204-474-7322 Joni Swidnicki served as recorder. Out of 600 tickets, 492 were sold. [email protected] The total value of the cash prizes was $1,000. The profit to MWI for the Manitoba Agriculture: Pat Orsak, Box 160, Russell Delegate Funds will be approximately $1,300. R0J 1W0 204-821-3814 [email protected] FWIC Executive Officer (Manitoba): Liz Chongva, Box 73, Dugald, R0E 0K0 Congratulations to the winners and thank you to all who supported this 204-853-2007 [email protected] cash calendar fundraiser by purchasing or selling tickets. Man Gov’t Appointed Member: Debbie Melosky, Box 10, Green Ridge, R0A 0P0 204-427-2036 [email protected] Past President: Donna Young, Site 325, Box 17, RR3, Brandon, R7A 5Y3 204-728-2714 [email protected]

Regional Executives: Eastern: Pres– Liz Chongva, Box 73, Dugald, R0E 0K0 204-853-2007 [email protected] Secretary– Janice Harrison, 48 Waterview, La Salle R0G 0A2 204-736-2613 [email protected] Treasurer– Kathy Wilkinson, Box 568, RR #1, Dugald R0E 0K0 204-853-7760 [email protected] Northwest: Pres– Sarah Pasternak, Box 86, Fork River, R0L 0V0 204-657-2380 Secretary– Treasurer– Marsha Chanin, 139-7th Ave. NE, Dauphin, R7N 0W2 204-638-7187 [email protected] Southwest A: Pres- Verna Cuddington, Box 381, Erickson, R0J 0P0 204-848-2575 [email protected] Secretary- Linda Wilson, Box 577, Hamiota, R0M 0T0 204-764-2642 [email protected] Treasurer– Elaine Thomson, Box 1533, Minnedosa R0J 1E0 204-874-2379 [email protected] Southwest B: Pres– Fran Dickinson, Box 163, Waskada, R0M 2E0 204-673-2468 [email protected] Secretary– Sylvia Mitchell, Box 154, Douglas, R0K 0R0 204-763-4781 [email protected] Treasurer– Sylvia Halls, Box 296, Reston, R0M 1X0 204-877-3763 [email protected] The above photo, submitted by Margaret Senkbeil, shows members from Winnipeg-Interlake: Wheat City Women’s Institute marking WI Day on February 19, 2016. They Pres– Karen Kaplen, Box 28C, RR #2, Winnipeg, R3C 2E6 204-697-2646 [email protected] met for noon lunch at the Victoria Inn, Brandon. They paid tribute to Nellie Secretary- Lynne Moore, Box 45, Inwood, R0C 1P0 McClung with a song and then they raised their glasses to toast this great indi- 204-278-3497 vidual! Treasurer– Marilyne Derrett, 208-1456 Jefferson Ave., Winnipeg, R2P 0Z3 204-694-5987 [email protected] (l-r) Seated: Anne Koscielny, Lynne Hopley, Yvonne Gustafson, Audrey Waddell. Standing: Sylvia Mitchell, Lois Burke, Marg Senkbeil.

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From Your President for this fall and see how many we can present for discussion at our next AGM. I am looking forward to meeting with MLAs in the fall to discuss what has been sent to them. The other exciting part of the meeting, for me, was the chance for many of you to meet Kris Owen from Change Makers. Change Makers is the Winnipeg company hired to set up a Marketing and Commu- nications Strategy for MWI. As a board we have already met with two staff members to discuss what we would like to see happen. First up is our website. It will be re- vamped and renewed. As well, Joni will “From Your President”… How strange be able to easily make changes and addi- those words sound to my ears! I still find tions and updates to the site once it is up it hard to believe that for the next two and running. As we move forward in this years, I am at the helm of this amazing area, we will be looking for information organization. from you as branches, regions, and indi- When I was working on the Take Ten vidual members. Revitalizing our organi- “New” faces during my time on the FWIC board I zation is going to take effort on the part Heather Klassen joined MWI in came across this quote and thought how of all our members. 2011 when her mom bought her a good it is and how true it is. “A team is a I am looking forward to the summer membership. It took her a while to group of people who go out of their way months. In mid June, I will be represent- to make each other look good” ~ Bob ing MWI in Brantford, Ontario, at the start getting involved as an individ- Farrell annual full board meeting of FWIC. Liz ual member, but “the more I learn My hope is that over the next two Chongva will meet with the other provin- about MWI, the more opportunities years, we can work together to make all cial Executive Officers and I will meet I see. I have continued to be a of us look good and make Manitoba with the provincial Presidents. Then we member because of the value this Women’s Institute the best organization will meet as a full board. The days will organization adds to community in the province and one that women want be long, but the company wonderful and development and the empower- to join. the ideas many. In August, I am off to the ment of women.” For those who attended the convention ACWW convention in England. Gisela Heather lives in Winnipeg, but at Elkhorn Resort Spa and Conference Nolting and I will represent MWI. The she grew up in Minnedosa and still Centre, I hope you were inspired by the excitement for me is building. has close ties to rural Manitoba. messages of The Honourable Janice On a personal note, we will have our She graduated from the University Filmon and Eileen Clarke on Friday Spanish daughter (a former exchange of Manitoba and then completed evening. The other speakers on Friday student of ours) and her son visit for a the Project Management Program made us think, and for some of you, I’m month. YaYa and YaYo (grandma and (with Honours) at Red River Col- sure you would be taking action once you grandpa) are getting very excited as is Tia lege. She currently runs her own arrived home. (auntie) Elizabeth. business helping entrepreneurs Saturday’s annual meeting was well When we next talk I hope to share with and small business owners with attended and we had some lively discus- you ideas from our FWIC meeting, infor- business development projects. sion on the 10 resolutions put before us. mation from ACWW, and more news Heather enjoys cross-country How great to see that many resolutions from our Marketing and Communications skiing, kayaking and horseback and the thought, time and effort put into Strategy. riding. She writes, “When I was 29 each one. Let’s put our thinking caps on Ann Mandziuk years old, I decided to take horseback riding lessons after a horse Congratulations! lay down with me on his back. There was no better way to get Karen Kaplen, Winnipeg, was recently honoured by Soroptimist International over that experience than to get (SI) of Winnipeg. At SI’s Annual Awards Luncheon on April 16, 2016, Karen re- back in the saddle! I’m always look- ceived the Women Helping Women Award. This award is given to a woman in ing for a chance to ride again, the community who has made a significant contribution to improving the lives of whenever I can.” women and girls. Karen is a Peer Program Support Worker with the Manitoba Heather was installed on the pro- Schizophrenia Society, facilitating a support group for women which offers vincial board as Director-at-Large friendship, support, and recovery information for those living with any mental at the recent MWI annual meeting. illness. Karen is a member of Mount Lildon Women’s Institute and President of Her “youth” (it’s all relative) and the Winnipeg Interlake Region. Well done, Karen! fresh perspective are welcome!

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(Continued from page 1) friend Jan Bones, the Honourable Eileen Clarke and her aide Jodie Byram, Donna agement. Jennifer’s presentation on Young, Ann Mandziuk, Joni Swidnicki, “investment fundamentals” was tailored and Dianne Kowalchuk. Other guests to women. She had some key advice for were Deva Marie Beck, Wayne Kines, women of all ages such as: Val Soltys and Monica Lambourne from 1. Take out insurance to deal with risk Erickson Credit Union, and Kris Owen management. from Change Makers. Insurance types After a delicious buf- include life, prop- fet meal and the Toast erty, disability to the Queen, Presi- income, and long dent Donna Young term care. introduced the guests 2. Set financial and asked the Past goals. This begins Presidents in attend- with knowing ance to stand. These your net worth. included: Marion 3. Pay yourself first McNabb, Lois Neabel, by putting a cer- Barbara Stienwandt, Chris Owen, representing Change Makers tain amount Helen Rigby, Valerie “away” each Watt, Diane Hall, Enid been able to to do on its own. On a per- month. Clark, Justina Hop, sonal note, Kris said that the camaraderie 4. Investigate an and Joan Clement. The that was so evident amongst the WI investment plan Honourable Eileen members is “priceless”. Can we package that might be a Clarke gave greetings that? little riskier than a on behalf of the Minis- The happenings in the regions were GIC but might ter of Agriculture, highlighted. Brief presidentations were also be more prof- Ralph Eichler. Liz made by Presidents Fran Dickinson, itable. Deva Marie Beck Chongva, FWIC Of- Southwest B; Liz Chongva, Eastern; Sa- 5. Look into legacy ficer for Manitoba, rah Pasternak, Northwest; Past President and estate planning read greetings from Linda Hoy, President Irene Draper, Southwest A; and President 6. Name a power of attorney. of Federated Women’s Institutes of Canada. -Elect Linda Scott, Winnipeg Interlake. 7. Get the advice of a certified financial Janice Filmon’s address was very well Other business included the roll call, the planner. received. She referred to Nellie McClung Executive Administrator’s report, the To be sure, most women left this session and the work that indomitable lady did financial report, and minutes from the with some ideas for future action. Jen- for women's rights. She spoke of the 2015 AGM. Ten resolutions were debat- nifer was provided as a speaker by Kir- pride she feels for elected women every- ed in sessions interspersed throughout the kup Agencies of Souris. where, noting that a few days earlier she morning and early afternoon. (See box The Friday banquet was a gala affair. had signed the Oath of Allegiance for page 9) Liz Chongva read a message Of course, the highlight was the presence Eileen Clarke when the newly elected from Linda Hoy. No nominations were of the Honourable Janice Filmon, the MLA was officially appointed to the received from the floor, and as a result, Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba. Head Cabinet. Janice Filmon spoke with hu- two positions were declared filled by table guests included Her Honour and her mour and candor, to the delight of the acclamation: Heather Klassen, Director-at audience. At the conclusion of her re- -Large and Denise Joss, President-Elect.

marks, she took the time to visit with Both ladies were introduced and spoke to In Memoriam... those in attendance, and many photos the assembly. were taken. Pat Orsak, Manitoba Agriculture’s rep- Eileen Brake, Whitewater WI By this time, Doreen Stapleton was at resentative on the MWI Board, gave an 1919-2016 the organ, filling the salon with the sound update on activities in the Department. of music. She played a wide range of These include: Pearl Calcutt, Duck Mountain WI selections, and her talent was much ap-  involvement with Growing Forward 1921-2016 preciated. 2, Manitoba Ag Days, Young Farm- The business of the annual meeting was Lillian Greer, Duck Mountain WI ers Conference, Open Farm Days, accomplished on Saturday. President and transition planning 1921-2015 Donna Young’s address focused on the  Working with industry accomplishments of the last year, which  Publishing an events guide and keep- Joan Kingdon, Basswood WI included the decision of the Board to hire 1932-2015 ing the Manitoba Ag website up to a professional marketing company. With date great pleasure, she introduced Kris Owen Eileen Spence, Woodmore WI from Change makers. Kris spoke briefly  Leadership and development of re- 1932-2016 and with great enthusiasm about MWI sources for 4-H and the work her company intends to do.  Working with the Manitoba Farm Pearl Warren, Great Falls WI Change Makers will package “the power Women’s Conference which will 1922-2015 of lobbying and action” and reach out to mark its 30th anniversary in the fall. the public in a way that MWI has not (Continued on page 5)

MWI NEWS JUNE 2016 5

(Continued from page 4) was won by Xisra Lamb, Pat explained that Manitoba Agriculture Newdale and MWI are currently in the fourth year Raven’s Glen of a five-year funding agreement which WI. The flower provides a yearly $35,300 grant and some arrangement valuable in-kind support. Pat also spoke donated by of her pleasure at the strong bond be- Newdale tween MWI and the Manitoba Associa- Raven’s Glen tion of Home Economists (MAHE). WI for the Cel- Dianne Kowalchuk introduced a video ebration of Life entitled The Spirit of Nellie McClung, was won by which had been written and narrated by Diane rychuk, Dianne and produced by her daughter Fork River WI. Candace. Much had been said over the The lucky win- two days of the convention about the Nel- ner of the one- lie Award that MWI had received in Jan- night stay at Competition winners: (l-r) Lynne Hopley, Cheryl Simes’s picture held by Chris deVos, uary. The 15-minute video explained the Elkhorn Resort and Muriel McCallum. life of Nellie McClung, the many tributes was Pat Dick- to her and the Famous Five, and the con- son, Broomhill WI. Also of interest: nection between Nellie and MWI. The The convention concluded with the  Voting strength for the AGM was 75 video ended with a quote from our fa- installation of the new MWI Board by in-person votes with 93 proxy votes mous sister: “Never underestimate the Past President Marion McNabb. Ann for a total of 168 votes. power of a woman.” Mandziuk is now President and Denise  Speaker gifts were unique: bracelets Gail Sawchuk, who along with mem- Joss, President-Elect. Other new mem- and key chains containing Newdale bers from Erickson WI oversaw the Peo- bers are Heather Klassen, Director-at- soil. These were purchased from the ple’s Choice Craft Competition, an- Large; Rose Bodz, Representative for Manitoba Society for Soil Science. nounced the winners. First prize went to Eastern Region; and Peggy Bradshaw,  The Celebration of Life was looked Lynne Hopley (Wheat City WI) for her Representative for Northwest Region. after by Newdale Raven’s Glen WI. spiral quilted table runner. Second prize The very busy day concluded about The lives of six women were hon- was awarded to Cheryl Simes (Fork Riv- 3:30 pm. Attendees packed up their pa- oured. er WI) for a cross stitched butterfly pic- pers and prizes and set off on their way ture. Muriel McCallum (Boissevain/ home. The planning committee was ex-  Convention Secretary was Sara Cur- Whitewater WI) received third prize for hausted but well satisfied. Did the con- tis, Lenore WI. Other Lenore mem- her painted nature scene. Thirty-nine vention fulfill the theme? Did we “care”? bers served as minute checkers. items of exceptional quality were on dis- Yes, true connections between old and  Past President Lois Neabel, Bass- play. new friends were evident. Did we wood WI, acted as Parliamentarian. The Home and Country Raffle was also “share”? Yes, as usual, a great amount of  FWIC President Linda Hoy was una- a success. It was ably looked after by information was imparted. And did we ble to attend as her father died re- Linda Wilson and the members from Isa- “dare”? It is expected that many went cently. bella WI. (The profit from this was home with “daring” thoughts in their  Over $4000 in sponsorship was re- $1,180.) heads about how they might grow and ceived, as well as some other in-kind One of the final items of business was change — both as individuals and as lo- donations. (See page 7) the announcement of the door prize win- cals.  Kirkup Agencies was a Silver Spon- ners. The duffle bag donated by Viterra sor and also provided the speaker on investing. As a silver sponsor, the business was invited to have display space. Steven Sopel was in attendance for the full length of the convention.  The Race was won by Winnipeg In- terlake Region with five new members.  The early bird registration prize was won by Mary Nichols, Erickson WI. She received a full refund.  Linda Wilson gave the courtesies.  The planning committee members were Enid Clark, Dianne Kow- alchuk, Shirley Pederson, Arenda Vanderdeen, Janis Klassen, and Lin- da Wilson. DCK

MWI members celebrate the great strides made for women’s rights.

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90-year-olds celebrate the ACWW/MWI project Queen’s birthday Through Pennies for Friendship, MWI Georgina Bollman is a member of members have been supporting a pro- Rivers WI and happens to turn 90 in ject in Cameroon entitled Project October. She was one of 150 Manito- #0948 Vegetables and Medicinal bans who were guests of Lieutenant Plants for Better Sustainability. This Governor Janice Filmon at a tea party project has now been completed and to mark the 90th birthday of Queen the final report has been received. Ru- Elizabeth. The event was held on ral women from Likombe and neigh- April 21st at Government House. Her bouring Bwassa villages were in- Honour made an effort to speak to volved in all aspects of the project: everyone in attendance. She is such a land identification and preparation, gracious lady! planting, harvesting, and capacity Georgina joined Moline WI in 1949 building. They were the main focus in and became a member of Rivers WI a planned exercise to “pass on the seed when Moline disbanded in 1970. She gift” and training in the use of medici- has been a member for over 65 years! nal plants such as aloe vera and lemon It is very likely that other WI mem- grass. This training was very valuable in improving the lives of the children, bers were fortunate enough to attend Georgina Bollman and Her Honour Janice Filmon at the the tea at Government House. If you Queen’s birthday tea. Don’t they both look lovely! Photo by L. who are most vulnerable to common have any photos, we would be glad to Manikel illnesses. print them! The project has led to increased veg- This shows that we are well thought of in etable farmland. The women farmers the community. have been organized into two groups and We continue to make our contributions are being empowered through this exer- Fisher Branch WI such as assisting with school travel for cise in group entrepreneurship. skating, etc. We also donate for scholar- The MWI board will be choosing its The following report was omitted from ships and treats at Christmas; this year, next ACWW project at the June board the Focus on Winnipeg Interlake Re- we donated money to assist a young meeting. gion printed in the April issue of The woman who suffered misfortune. We Institute News. supported the Arts Festival, the Cham- ber of Commerce, the Terry Fox Run, It is so nice to see and hear the signs of funds for fireworks after our Christmas spring. Although we had a moderate win- parade at which we enter a float, and ter, we are looking forward to being out other charities. in the yard and not having to wear winter All in all, we had a very fulfilling gear. and busy year. Jessie Plett As usual our year has been busy, especially right now when many members are involved in volunteering in various ways for the Northern Lights Festival of the Arts. At our Christmas gathering at which A “Hanging BRAsket”?? our spouses join us, we recognized long- time members. Rosie Barrett had been a The NFWI News is published by the member for 60 years and June Kopys and National Federation of Women’s Insti- Stephanie Hyde have devoted time and tute in the United Kingdom. The maga- zine is always chock-full of activities Rural women in Likombe, Cameroon, discuss the benefits energy for 50 years each. It is rewarding of “bitter leaf”, a plant which is high in anti-oxidants, to have such faithful members. Our of the WI in that part of the world. lowers cholesterol, and can help prevent cancers. Photo Woman’s Institute is now 68 years The May 2016 issue described a par- courtesy of ACWW. young. To celebrate WI Day, we gathered ticularly interesting project called “the for a catered luncheon. It was nice to hanging ‘BRAsket’ competition. With the gather socially and not have to do any- support of a British seed company, NFWI thing — just arrive. initiated this competition “to continue its At one of our meetings, we were shown aims to recycle, reuse, and repurpose.” how to arm knit. This seemed popular Members are challenged to use an old bra and will be offered at the Northern Lights for growing flowers, herbs, fruit, or vege- Festival of the Arts at a mini session. tables. What a novel idea! More infor- As usual we had our two bake sales and mation can be found at the “WI Moodle” our annual fundraisers. It is very reward- on-line at www.witraining.org.uk . Learn ing to have people approach us to pur- more about the WI in the United King- chase tickets or our baking rather than us dom at www.theWI.org.uk . having to ask people for their support.

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Manitoba Rural Women’s Day — a day you won’t want to miss!

The Manitoba Rural Women’s Day on away in 2002. In 2004 Shirley married planning programs, assisting the editor of the topic of How to Avoid Family Con- Keith Scott and together, in 2005, they a consumer newsletter, and providing one flict will be held in Rivers on October 15 opened a store front office in Brandon. -on-one consultations as requested. Her and Dugald on October 29. This is meant Shirley loves working with people and interests include volunteering for a num- to be a day of learning and sharing for helping them build their financial future. ber of other organizations, reading, walk- women, both members and non- Her past experiences have given her valu- ing, boating, and taking further continu- members. Please plan to attend and in- able insight into specific situations and ing education courses. vite a friend. In addition to a great day of enable her to provide solutions for the speakers, there will be door prizes, lunch, families and businesses that she works 3. Wilma Derksen display tables, and a draw for a free new with. Her business is National Best. She Wilma is the director of White Banners membership. holds her Life Insurance License and is and received her graduate training from The speakers for the day are: registered to market Exempt Market Royal Roads University. She is a certified products. coach from a program that is certified by 1. Gerry Friesen the International Coaching Federation. Topic: Dealing with Family Conflict The participants in our Fireside Chat Wilma has been recognised for her con- Gerry is founder of Signature Media- on the topic of Dealing with Family tributions with a number of awards. tion. His mediation career began in 2000 Conflict are: Three of these honours include the Order when he became a member of the Mani- of Manitoba, the Corrections Services toba Farm Mediation Board. Growing up 1. Marina James Canada Ron Wiebe Restorative Justice on a family farm, farming with a brother, Marina recently joined Fusion Capital Award, and the Creative Communica- and raising a family in rural Manitoba Management as its Chief Operating Of- tions Alumni Award. She speaks regular- have provided ample opportunity to ficer. Marina is actively involved in Fu- ly in Canada and abroad on resilience, shape Gerry’s views on conflict resolu- sion’s redevelopment of The Osborne communication, and spirituality. Her tion, conflict management, and conflict Village Hotel. Prior to Fusion she was the path turned towards exploring resilience transformation. Gerry is a member of President and CEO of Economic Devel- and goal achievement after her daughter, Canadian Association of Farm Advisors, opment Winnipeg Inc. where she directed Candace, was murdered over 30 years Family Mediation Manitoba, and Alter- all aspects of the organisation’s activities ago. Since that time she has learned to nate Dispute Resolution Canada. In and collaborated with stakeholders to heal and move forward as she has assist- 2010, Gerry was the recipient of the make Winnipeg a compelling choice for ed others. Helping people reach their Manitoba Pork Council Friend of the business investment and tourism. Marina goals has always been a passion of Wil- Industry Award for “providing emotional is the co-founder of SHE Day (Share – ma’s. She enjoys working with people as support and expertise to help farmers Hear – Empower), an inspiring interna- they face and work to overcome challeng- cope with financial and emotional stress tional award winning event to promote es. Her focus is on finding truth, under- in their darkest days”. gender diversity and empowerment of standing oneself, and learning to create women. Marina has more than 22 years success in various pursuits. 2. Marsha Harris of executive management experience in Topic: Effective Family Communication community economic development and 4. Vicki Olatundun Marsha has a Bachelor of Arts and investment attraction, indigenous rela- Vicki is the new Executive Director at Master of Marriage and Family Therapy. tions, real estate asset management and the Steinbach Family Resource Centre She has facilitated many groups regard- tourism development. She serves on a where she has been since 2012. Her pas- ing healthy communication, communi- number of boards. She has an MBA with sion and mission is H.O.P.E. (Helping cating in intimate partner relationships, a major in Finance, is a Certified Hotel Other People Excel). She is a community communication patterns, family systems, Administrator and a Certified Destination -minded social justice warrior. Vicki ad- and many topics revolving around addic- Management Executive. She is presently vocates for families and for all people tion and mental health due to her past completing a National Advanced Certifi- regardless of their socio-economic status. role at the Addictions Foundation of cate in Local Government Administration She enjoys challenging the status quo, Manitoba. Marsha has 13 years of clinical and Economic Development. opening closed doors, and helping peo- experience. At Brandon University, Mar- ple. She chooses to make a difference. sha is a counsellor with the role of as- 2. Karen Kaplen Vicki is married with two small children sessing mental health concerns; providing Karen first joined Mount Lildon Wom- and has the privilege of all the pleasures individual, group, and family therapy to en’s Institute in 1979, and she has re- and frustrations that come with raising a students; consulting with faculty regard- mained a member ever since. She has family in these times. In her role with the ing mental health issues; and facilitating served as treasurer for the Mount Lildon Steinbach Family Resource Centre she workshops and groups. WI and served two terms as the Winnipeg works towards new and innovative ways Interlake Regional Representative. She is to help all families in the community. 3. Shirley Scott currently the President for the Winnipeg She also just wrote a book titled Unleash Topic: Understanding your Finances Interlake Region of WI. Karen credits WI Your Crazy to Win. Shirley grew up on a farm near Trees- with giving her the confidence to go on to bank, Manitoba. She started a career in further studies at Red River Community financial services in 1997. The financial College where she completed a Clerical experiences that she gained early in her Bookkeeping Course and later an Applied Submitted by the MWI Planned Program career helped her tremendously when her Counselling Skills Course. She works for Committee: Debbie Melosky, Maren Mueller, husband John became ill and passed the Manitoba Schizophrenia Society as a Arenda Van Der Deen Peer Support Worker facilitating groups,

8 MWI NEWS JUNE 2016

Focus on Eastern Region Domain WI Springfield WI

Domain WI had another Springfield WI meets on busy year. Our numbers the second Friday of the are declining due to the month at the Springfield deaths of two members, Library in Dugald. We one dropped membership, started this year with 17 and one member moving members, three of whom to British Columbia. With were new. Sadly in March, these numbers in mind, we one member, Freda Pet- are trying some new ap- terson, passed away un- proaches to our former expectedly. routines. For the months of We have had some in- January, February, and teresting topics and activi- March, we decided to Domain WI members sell “junk” from their “trunks” on a cold May day. Photo by L. ties this year. We visited abandon the morning por- Manson. Posted on Domain WI Facebook page. and toured the arctic char tion of our meeting and fish hatchery at the Ridge- meet instead at 1:00 in the afternoon. was a great success. land Hutterite Colony last June. Some Our business meeting is first, we We have also held two Cheese and members have been going through have a coffee break, and then the Yogurt Making workshops, one on our 35 years of records, cataloging hostess is tasked with leading a half- February 25th and another on March them and putting them in the RM of hour discussion on topics of her 17th, with a total of 29 participants Springfield archives. We also learned choice. As such we have discussed registered. Instructors for the work- how to do the paper piecing tech- noise levels at the Manitoba Theatre shop were Jim Appleby (husband of nique in quilting. Centre, violence in sport, childhood Angie Appleby, Woodmore WI’s new- Some repairs were needed to the years, something that was allowed in est member and also the co-ordinator base of the train monument that we growing up years that would never be for last summer’s gardening work- erected in 2007 to commemorate the allowed today, and a report on The shops) and Mary Jane Martens from 1947 Minaki train disaster that hap- Vote for Women. These “Fireside Roseau River. Again, this was a pened in Dugald. These repairs were Chats” have been very relaxing and great success. completed in the late fall. We are now have removed the stress of locating Our local recently held a Pancake looking at ways to cover the site to speakers for these “winter vacation” Breakfast fundraiser and is currently protect the story boards from the sun. months. planning for our Annual Spring Sup- This is an ongoing project. A new fundraiser was held on Sat- per. We will be venturing out on three In February we attended a seminar urday, May 14 — a JUNK IN THE Field Trips this summer. Busy we are! put on by the Mood Disorder Associa- TRUNK garage sale. For this sale, we Liz Griffin tion of Manitoba and we will be partic- sold out of our own vehicles at the ipating in their Blue Awareness Activi- Caisse parking lot — no need to rent ties Challenge. We will be planting space. We are optimistic that our blue and white flowers at the train bank account will profit from this one monument site, to support and create time effort. awareness about positive mental Janice Harrison health and suicide prevention. As well, we will be displaying lit- erature on mood disorders Woodmore WI and mental health issues on

our WI table when we attend Following the completion of functions. At our May meeting, the various gardening work- we are having author Casia shops that the Woodmore WI Schreyer speak to us on bully- hosted last year, we have ing. Our windup will be held in continued to plan more work- Lac du Bonnet where we will shops for people in the Emer- visit the local museum and go son/Franklin Municipality. out to lunch. In July we have On November 24th we held a table at the Springfield Agri- a “No Knead” Bread Making cultural Society Fair where we workshop with twenty people sell tickets on a food hamper in attendance and five on a and promote Women's Insti- waiting list in the hopes that tute. another will be planned. The Janet Tinley and Diane Holland “No Knead” bread making instructor was Dorothy Barg- Neufeld from Winnipeg and Woodmore WI held a garage sale on May 14, 2016. Photo by L. Griffin. Dufresne WI is also found in according to all reports, it Eastern Region.

MWI NEWS JUNE 2016 9

Resolutions accepted at the 2016 AGM 1. Manitoba Women's Institute (MWI) will request that the funding offered to provincially funded students. Government of the Province of Manitoba support the expansion of handi-transit services in rural communities to allow them to 6. MWI will urge Manitoba Agriculture to facilitate regular become a more useable service for the entire community. This yearly farm safety training sessions, with emphasis on grain would be done by amending the Mobility Disadvantaged Trans- entrapment training. portation Program Eligibility Guidelines and the Vehicle Opera- tion Regulations governed by the Motor Transport Board. 7. MWI will urge Health Canada, Manitoba Health, and Mani- toba Family Services to develop and implement a policy to im- 2. MWI will strongly urge Manitoba Health to address the prove food security for northern and remote areas. increasing numbers of senior citizens who will be requiring advanced levels of health care in the near future. This will in- 8. MWI will petition the Provincial Minister Responsible for clude expedited access to secure home care, adequate long-term Family Services to ensure that social assistance allowances keep health facilities, medical diagnostic clinics, and professional up with the rate of inflation and rising costs of food and housing. geriatric medical staffing. 9. MWI will urge Manitoba Health to tackle the problem of 3. MWI will urge the Government of Manitoba to introduce Early Childhood Caries (ECC) by 1) identifying the communi- legislation that would make childhood vaccinations (as per the ties that have a high incidence of the disease and 2) introducing schedule approved by Manitoba Health) mandatory for children into those communities a program to combat malnutrition, a attending all schools in Manitoba. contributing factor to ECC.

4. MWI will urge the Minister of Health to review the cost of 10. MWI will ask that the Canadian Beverage Container Recy- ambulance service with the aim of making the costs more af- cling Association (CBCRA) of Manitoba and Multi Material fordable to all citizens and making the rates consistent across Stewardship Manitoba (MMSM) be obligated to provide man- the province. datory payment for beverage containers of all sizes, especially PET and aluminum containers to ensure the public buys in as 5. MWI will petition the federal government to raise the per stakeholders in insuring adherence to the recycling of beverage capita funding for First Nations students to the same level as the containers in Manitoba. (Originally passed in 2014)

News from the MWI Board

The MWI board met on April 27 at Portage, and before and after the Bulletin Board annual meeting at Clear Lake.  It is hoped that each local will make be included in the next edition of sure that every member has access The News (September 2016). Sub- Donation: A $250 donation was to this newsletter. It is being distrib- missions are welcome. given to the Canadian Red Cross, uted by e-mail only. Please make  Please forward preliminary details copies for those without internet earmarked to help the victims of the of the plans for the fall seminars to access. Alberta wildfires. the editor by August 31. This is very  See page 7 for information about the important! If your region is not International Peace Garden (IPG): speakers at Manitoba Rural Wom- hosting a seminar, please let the MWI’s sign at the IPG will be re- en’s Day. This event, to be held in editor know. paired. Rivers and Dugald, is a result of the  The Institute News will focus on work of the Planned Program Com- Northwest Region in the Septem- Photos with the Nellie Award: mittee. The planned program will ber edition. Silverton and Fork River When Ann Manziuk and Donna take the form of full day of speakers. — please send your material to the Young travelled around to the re- Locals can now take advantage of editor by September 5. gional conventions, they took pic- the planned program without having tures of the members, individually or any work to do! The Day may take  The 2017 MWI Convention will be in groups, with the Nellie Award. the place of your region’s usual fall hosted by Northwest Region at Rus- seminar These photos were distributed at the sell on May 5-6. provincial convention.  The deadline for the next issue of  Two women have retired from the The News is September 5. If you are provincial board: Gisela Nolting and Marketing and Communication unable to send your material by that Diane Hrychuk. We thank these Strategy: A presentation from date, please let the editor know that ladies for their commitment to Change Makers, the marketing com- something is coming so that she can MWI. save the space. pany that was hired by MWI, was  The MWI office will be open over heard at the April 27th meeting.  Celebration of Life write-ups will the summer with flexible hours.

10 MWI NEWS JUNE 2016 Regional Conventions Northwest members gather at now one of Manitoba's pre-eminent quilt- education. She talked about the challeng- Russell ers. es of working in the male-dominated The Russell Ladies Line Dance Group world of being a veterinarian, especially The Northwest Regional Convention was led by our own Nancy Ferg, helped to in the large animal practice. Because of a held at the Russell Inn on Saturday, April empower us through movement and mu- change of attitudes, there is not such a 2nd. The theme for the day was Empower- sic. The group gave a demonstration and problem of gender in the business today, ing Women. Members from Fork River, then taught many of us to tap our toes and Accompanying herself on the guitar, Silverton, Grandview, Russell, and Bran- move in time to the music. Denise Diores shared her voice and in- don gathered to conduct the business of Ayla Hamilton inspired us in terms of deed empowered us through music. This the organization, chaired by Rose Kieper, issues she sees as paramount to youth and brought our day to a close. President of Silverton WI. Provincial how being involved has allowed her to We all headed home with new President Donna Young spoke, as well as stretch and grow. She addressed concerns knowledge, renewed friendships, and a Executive Director Joni Swidnicki and facing youth, issues around Kids Helping better understanding of our ability to Regional President Ethel Lungal. Kids (an organization which she was make a difference in ourselves, our com- The resolutions going forth to the Pro- instrumental in forming), and the im- munities, and indeed, the world. vincial Convention were reviewed. The portance of recognizing the contributions Submitted by Rose Kieper and needs of indigenous people. Celebration of Life honoured Joyce Gray of Silverton and Lillian Greer and Pearl Cathy Clemence honed in on how sig- Calcutt from Grandview. nificant it was for her grandmother and Erickson welcomes Southwest A Donna Young installed the new board: mother to make sacrifices to ensure that President Sara Pasternak, President-Elect she and her siblings were able to get an For the third year in a row, the annual Rose Kieper, Past President Eth- meeting of Southwest A Region took the el Lungal, Treasurer Marsha form of an afternoon business meeting. Chanin, and Regional Rep Peggy This format has been very well received. Bradshaw. It is certainly less work for the hosting The first “empowerment” ses- body, as no outside speakers are required sion, presented by Joan Clement, and there is no lunch to prepare for. The illustrated how Women’s Insti- meeting now includes reports from each tute members help women local (which promotes regional cohesive- throughout the world as members ness) and a short discussion of the resolu- in the Associated Country of the tions to be debated at the provincial con- World. A number of projects, vention. supported by the WI in various On April 13, 2016, 30 members from countries help to lift women out the six locals in the region, as well as of deplorable conditions and help individual members, gathered at the them to develop livelihoods for Crossroads Hall in Erickson. All were their families. welcomed by Erickson WI President Es- Dorothy Price of Gilbert Plains ther Knapp. Special guests were MWI awed us with her quilting exper- President Donna Young and Executive tise as she talked about being Administrator Joni Swidnicki, who both empowered through her artistry made presentations. The meeting was with cloth and stitching — a chaired by Southwest A Regional Presi- journey she started as a child dent Irene Draper. The Celebration of alongside her mother. She is Young ukulele players at Erickson. Life service, which honoured eight women, was presented by Newdale Raven’s Glen WI. Arenda Vanderdeen gave a report on her work as the regional representative on the provincial board. She focused on the efforts of the Planned Pro- gram Committee to plan Manitoba Rural Women’s Day in October. Dianne Kow- alchuk led the discussion of four resolutions. The entertainment was delightful. Er- ickson WI member Gale Johnson explained that the branch wanted to show how it spends its money. The branch had made a donation to the Kiddie’s College for the purchase of ukuleles for a music class for sixteen 3-5 year-olds. Three young lads and their instructor demon- strated what they have learned. Irene Draper has now concluded a two- year term as President. The new regional Members of Erickson WI pose with the Nellie Award at the Southwest A Region Convention. (Continued on page 11)

MWI NEWS JUNE 2016 11

(Continued from page 10) Dufresne WI hosts Eastern Re- Winnipeg/Interlake meets at gion Grosse Isle board was installed by Donna Young: President Verna Cuddington, President- The Eastern Region WI Convention was The annual Winnipeg Interlake Regional Elect Arlene Waddell, Secretary Linda held on April 8th in Dugald hosted by Convention, held on Saturday, April 9th, Wilson, Treasurer Elaine Thomson, and Dufresne WI. The theme was Forgotten 2016, was hosted by Grosse Isle Wom- Regional Rep Arenda Vanderdeen. Manitoba Treasures. One of the guest en’s Institute at the Grosse Isle Commu- The 2017 convention will be held at speakers, Jean MacManus, had toured the nity Centre. Marg Knutson, Grosse WI Isabella. The next board meeting will be Province of Manitoba taking photographs President, welcomed everyone. Reeve held in Hamiota on September 14. of all the wooden grain elevators. These Jim Campbell brought greetings from the Thanks to Irene Draper were then placed in a slide presentation Rockwood Municipality; Reeve Frances that named and described the places. Smee brought greetings from the RM of This was a very interesting educational Rosser. Enlighten and Energize! presentation. During the lunch a slide Karen Kaplen, Winnipeg Interlake Re- presentation was running with the photo- gional President, opened the business Enlighten and Energize was the theme of graphs of wildlife and flowers she had portion of the day with the roll call of the 2016 Southwest B Convention, held also taken. Institutes. Forty-one representatives at Veva’s Diner in Boissevain. President The afternoon speaker from the Prairie from seven locals and three individual Fran Dickinson and President-Elect Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre spoke members were present. Three guests at- Audrey Clark presided. Words of wel- about the injured wildlife, the care pro- tended for a total of 47 people. come were given by Judy Busby, Presi- vided, and their release back into their Reports were presented by Karen dent of Boissevain/Whitewater WI and habitat. The members got to see and hear Kaplen, Regional President; Valerie by Ed Anderson, Municipal Head of about two interesting birds – one a Kes- Watt, Regional Representative; Donna Council. Roll call indicated that 17 mem- trel and the other a Grey Owl that would Young, Provincial President; and Joni bers from four locals, two individual not have survived in the wilderness due Swidnicki, Executive Director of MWI. members, and two visitors were present. to their conditions. The Celebration of Life ceremony was Coins for Change were presented, and The Regional President’s Address very moving as the memories of seven the Southwest B board was introduced. spoke about members filling positions on WI members from the region were hon- Much information was garnered from the the Regional Board. Rose Bodz was oured. Dorothy Braun read the poem The presentations of MWI President Donna elected for a one year term (2016-2017) Dash, and flowers were placed by the Young and MWI Executive Administra- due to the resignation of Denise Joss who Book of Remembrance as the names of tor Joni Swidnicki. Reports were heard had let her name stand for the position of the individuals were read. Five of the from the regional rep, education con- Provincial President-Elect. The position members honoured were active or former venorships, and the regional president. of Regional Pesident-Elect is currently members of Mount Lildon WI. The other Broomhill WI conducted a fitting Cele- vacant. members were from Narcisse and Winni- bration of Life which honoured seven The Eastern Region is pleased to have peg WIs. past members. five members on the Provincial Board. At noon, we were treated with a deli- Three speakers were welcomed. Rhon- Liz Chongva cious roast beef dinner catered by Norma Ridgeway. Giselle Nolting provided us da Barr, a Clearwater WI member, gave an enlightening presentation on Bud- with a choice of two delicious tortes. dhism. Garry Enns, CEO of the Interna- During lunch, Rolly Gillies, the Singing tional Peace Garden, gave an update on Cowboy from Grosse Isle, entertained us the work at the Garden, upcoming events, with a variety of musical selections. and the concern about the Peace Tower Miles MacFarlane, a teacher from having to come down. Dianne Hole Grosse Isle, was the afternoon speaker. In spoke about Eden Alternatives, a philoso- 2013, Miles and his family exchanged phy of enriching life for the elderly. positions for a year with a teacher from There are so many little things we can do Australia. Miles told us about how dif- to give more meaning to our days. Homes ferent it was working in the Australian for the elderly following these principles Outback as compared to working in Can- can be found in Grunthal and Winnipeg. ada. There were a lot of cultural differ- Questions to all three speakers brought ences including driving on the opposite forth a great deal of information. side of the road and the different termi- The annual quilt draw was won by Val nology used to express similar things. Pogson of Cartwright. Courtesies were Road hazards in Australia are more likely given by Marg Senkbeil, Wheat City WI. to be kangaroos rather than deer. The day was brought to a close after the Installation of the Regional Board took installation of the 2016-17 regional board place. All positions will remain the same. by Donna Young. Courtesies were given and we were Fran Dickinson served cake and coffee before heading home after a very enjoyable day. Karen Kaplen

Yes, that is a real Grey Owl she is holding. Photo by L. Chongva.

12 MWI NEWS JUNE 2016

Manitoba Women’s Institute sincerely thanks these spon- June 2016 November 2016 sors for their support of the 2016 Provincial Convention 6 MWI board meeting, Portage 7-8 MWI board meeting at Clear Lake: 20-22 Manitoba Farm Women’s July 2016 Conference, Portage la Prairie Gold Sponsor ($1000 and higher) Credit Unions Serving Southwestern 5 Celebrating Women Gala Manitoba Viscount Gort, Winnipeg 14 Manitoba Ag Hall of Fame The Institute News is published six times per year. Silver Sponsors ($500 and higher) Induction, Portage la Prairie Out-of-province subscription: $40.00. Enns Brothers In-province: no subscription. ISBN 1188-0961 Kirkup Agencies August 2016 Next issue: September 2016 Webber Printing Published by Manitoba Co-operator Manitoba Women’s Institute. 17-23 ACWW Conference, UK Editor: Dianne Kowalchuk, BA To comment on content or format or to 21-27 IPG/FWIC Scholarship Week make a submission, you may reach the Bronze Sponsors ($250 and higher) Editor at 204-328-7690 (phone), Richardson Pioneer, Shoal Lake 204-328-7322 (fax), September 2016 e-mail [email protected] or Box 645, Rivers, Manitoba R0K 1X0. Royal Blue Sponsors ($100 +) 5 Deadline for The News Keystone Agricultural Producers 6 MWI board meeting, Portage Farm Credit Canada 18 Open Farm Day Manitoba Women’s Institute Shoal Lake Farm Equipment www.mbwi.ca RTM Transport Ltd. October 2016 Redfern Farm Services, Rivers Manitoba Turkey Producers 3 MWI board meeting, conference call E-mail the office at Vanguard Credit Union, Hamiota 15 Manitoba Rural Women’s Day [email protected] CIBC Brandon Rivers RBC, Minnedosa Branch 29 Manitoba Rural Women’s Day RBC, Shoal Lake Branch Dugald Phone 204-726-7135 Friends of MWI Elkhorn Resort and Conference Centre Westoba Credit Union, Rivers 10th Annual Campbell’s Funeral Home Celebrating Women Manitoba Egg Farmers Gala and Fundraiser Viterra

Hosted by the Provincial Council of Women of Manitoba (PCWM)

7:30 pm Tuesday, July 5, 2016 Viscount Gort Hotel, 1670 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg

Honouring four individuals — including MWI’s Valerie Watt —and one federate member for their service to the community. The Not Afraid to Get Your Hands Dirty award will also be presented. The evening will include entertainment, refreshments, a Rainbow Auction, and Celebrating Women Boutique.

Tickets ($40) may be purchased at McNally Robinson Booksellers or by contacting Shirley Walker at 1-204-775-0743 or at [email protected] . (l-r) Fran Dickinson, the Honourable Janice Filmon, Audrey Clark, Joni Swidnicki following the banquet at the MWI convention.