This article was published in May 2023 and may be outdated.
Growing up in western Manitoba, going to the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair in Brandon was a big deal for Tara Kendzierski. As a public safety specialist for Manitoba Hydro, she now plays a part in making the fair a memorable experience for the next generation.
“We’re out here educating children and their families about safety through interactive games like Safety Plinko” said Tara. “Even a little tip might save a kid’s life – don’t fly your kite near a power line, don’t stick things in outlets, keep electrical equipment away from water, to name a few.”
Tara Kendzierski plays Safety Plinko with a kid at the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair, which took place during Spring Break.
Enlarge image: A kid reaches to the top of a gameboard with supervision from an adult.
“I’m from rural Manitoba – the Fair has always been a staple event in the community. It’s a family outing to see the horses, watch the performers, and eat the mini donuts,” said Tara.
Manitoba Hydro has sponsored the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair for 25 years.
“It’s nice to see the smiles on the kid’s faces and the moments they learn,” said Tara. “At Ag Days, some kids from a nearby school told me they recently had a Manitoba Hydro employee come to their school and teach them about electricity safety. So I asked if they could tell me something they learned from our safety presentation – and they did!” said Tara. “It’s those moments I realize the importance of our programs and how valuable the information can be.”
Louie the Lightning Bug is a hit among kids at the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair.
Enlarge image: Two kids interact with a bug mascot in a yellow costume.
Awards and carriage rides
Manitoba Hydro employees also presented ribbons to the winning Four Horse Hitch winners.
From left to right, Manitoba Hydro representatives who took part in the Fair: Jeff Betker, Vice-President, External & Indigenous Relations and Communications, Ivona Gozdziolko, Courtnee Mealy, Tara Kendzierski, Cyril Patterson, Christy Erickson, Jamie Erickson, and Mike Marshall.
Enlarge image: A group stands in front of four horses and a carriage, with one man on the carriage.
“The Fair’s a great opportunity to teach kids about safety around our equipment, and for Manitoba Hydro to have a positive presence in the western Manitoba community.” said Jeff Betker. “I’m happy I got to experience it first-hand.”