As 2015 comes to an end, we take a look back at some of the most significant stories that have affected our town.
Niverville Fair Celebrates Twentieth Anniversary
SUMMARY:
Niverville’s Olde Tyme Country Fair marked its twentieth anniversary this past June. The turnout was 7,500, down slightly due to weather and strong competition from other regional events.
“Our family looks forward to the Niverville Olde Tyme Country Fair every year! It is a great kickoff to the summer. We love running into people we know from the community on the street. The energy and atmosphere is fun and friendly and makes us feel proud to be part of a community that does such an exceptional job of mixing big city talent with small town touches. This event pulls our diverse town together and even makes us newbies feel like lifers.”
—Sheri Austman
New Traffic Lights Installed
SUMMARY:
New traffic lights were installed this winter at the corner of Highways 59 and 311.
“My wife and I keep hearing people say positive things about the lights. The lights bring awareness to the fact that this is a busy intersection. If those lights save one life, or save one family from getting into an accident, then they have done their job.”
—Barry Piasta
New Sidewalks on Main Street
SUMMARY:
New sidewalks have been built on the south side of Main Street from Fourth Avenue to Fifth Avenue. The rest of Main Street will follow over the next 5 years.
“We are so thankful to have the new sidewalk. It adds safety and beauty in front of my hair studio. It has a clean look and is very functional for parked bicycles and strollers.”
—Anna Sawatzky
Sports Multiplex Plans Unveiled
SUMMARY:
Plans have been drawn up and
fundraising is underway for a new year-round indoor sports multiplex to be built adjacent to the Niverville Centennial Arena.
“CIS [Clipper Ice Sports] is very excited with the announcement of a new facility. As our membership grows, the demand for more ice time is definitely a challenge. The second ice surface will help eliminate some of the challenges of scheduling practices.”
—Jeff Spencer
Niverville Earns Wetlands Award
SUMMARY:
The Town of Niverville, partnering with Ducks Unlimited, cleaned up its former municipal lagoon, using native plants to remove contaminants from the ground. The first-of-its-kind project earned the town a 2014 Manitoba Excellence in Sustainability Award for Innovation and Research for Sustainability.
Splash Pad Announced
SUMMARY:
Next summer, Niverville will be home to a 3,500-square-foot splash pad in Hespeler Park. The site, located between Soccer Pitch and Baseball Diamond 4, will include washrooms and change rooms, along with a canteen to provide healthy snacks.
“We are so excited for the new splash pad! Our kids will be at the perfect age to use the splash pad next summer and we are so looking forward to having one so close by. We moved to town this past year and the amenities and activities that are available to our children are awesome.”
—Andrea Funk
New Post Office Under Construction
SUMMARY:
After years of growth and a cramped facility, Niverville’s post office is finally getting the upgrade it needs, with a 1,000-square-foot addition.
The Heritage Centre Expands
SUMMARY:
Construction began this year on the latest wing of the Heritage Centre, which will include a new medical centre and 46-suite retirement living facility. The $14 million project will open in 2017.
“I’m really impressed with the Heritage Centre and how [Niverville has] been growing it. I’m very impressed at the way that you see that health is not just hospital… I would say that you folks are doing it in Niverville, that this Heritage Centre, and the amazing services that you’re providing, particularly to the elderly in this community… is pure second-stage Medicare.”
—Dr. Michael Rachlis
Town Throws First Annual Winterfest
SUMMARY:
This year, Niverville held its first Winterfest, which included local vendors, skating, dinner, caroling, and a host of activities for kids. Festivities took place at the Niverville Collegiate, Niverville Elementary School, and Niverville Arena grounds.
“Thank you so very much! It was a wonderful
time and I will for sure take part next year again.”
—Shanda Offenberger
Niverville Gets a Newspaper
SUMMARY:
The Niverville Citizen debuted in August and has been growing ever since. The distribution has recently upticked from 2,500 to 4,200, with many surrounding communities now included in the monthly mail-drop.
“Love The Citizen. It’s informative and entertaining, and I really enjoy reading about our small community. Keep up the great work!”
—Juli Harder
Old Drovers Run Opens
SUMMARY:
Old Drovers Run golf course opened its first 7 holes for free weekend play this past fall. 9 holes will be playable in the spring.
"My impressions of this course is that it will be the best 9-hole course in the area. It is challenging and fun to play, it’s easy to walk, and the contours of the fairways are great. The greens are large and undulating, and all were in pretty good shape. There is risk and reward on certain holes, especially on the fourth, as you can drive the green and go for eagle or have a good chance at birdie. The par 5’s are nice and long, and you can find your balls more easily now with the grass cut back. I look forward to being a member there for many years to come!"
—René Abgrall
