Village News

Optimism was the prevailing sentiment at the Annual General Meeting of the Mennonite Heritage Village on Tuesday, April 8. Vice-President Anne Friesen competently and efficiently lead numerous agenda items as she stood in for President John Klippenstein, who was unable to attend.

Victor Bergmann of Deloitte, MHV’s auditor, reported that 2013 was another break-even year, which is what museums typically strive for. He also challenged attending members to consider the stories behind the numbers, pointing out that each line of the financial statement is the result of decisions, actions and circumstances that come together for an end result. Members approved the audited financial statements as well as the 2014 budget.

Executive Director Barry Dyck introduced staff members present and thanked staff, volunteers, and particularly board members for their fine work and support for MHV. He also reminded the audience of the 50th Anniversary celebrations happening throughout 2014. Linda Schroeder, President of the MHV Auxiliary, reported on the considerable successes of the group in 2013.

Three new directors were elected to the board. Kyla Murray, an Executive Assistant with the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce; Sid Reimer, a Senior Vice-President with Lakeview Insurance; and Janis Thiessen, an Assistant Professor of History at the University of Winnipeg, began their tenure immediately following the meeting. They bring a broad scope of interest and expertise to the board.

Four board members have completed their terms of service. Anne Friesen recognized outgoing directors Harold Dyck, Abe Hiebert, Kevin Pankratz and John Rempel. We are grateful for their individual contributions to the work of the MHV Board of Directors.

The public event was concluded with socializing over coffee and homemade doughnuts prepared by our Food Services Manager, Dora Penner.

The new board met briefly immediately following the AGM to organize its executive committee. Elected were John Klippenstein, President; Willie Peters, Vice-President; and Anne Friesen, Secretary. The next meeting of the board will take place on May 6.