This Wednesday, July 15th, Tim Hortons locations across Canada will take part in Tim Hortons Camp Day, raising money to send underserved youth to camp.

Proceeds from any hot or iced coffee, take 12 coffee, or the Camp Day bracelet will go towards sending kids to camp. Supporters can also purchase a Camp Day badge for $2.

Kathryn Sanderson, the manager and owner of the Tri-community Tim Hortons, talks about the opportunities given to the kids who attend the camps.

After over 50 years of holding Tim Hortons Camp Days, nearly 350 000 kids have been sent to camp, gaining leadership skills, building self-esteem, and having life-changing experiences.

Advanced polling is now open in the provincial byelection for the electoral division of The Pas-Kameesak to select a new MLA (Member of the Legislative Assembly). The Pas-Kameesak’s MLA seat has been empty since March following the passing of NDP MLA Amanda Lathlin. There are 4 candidates in the running: Jennifer Flett representing Manitoba's New Democratic Party, Dan Quesnel representing Manitoba’s Liberal Party, Edna Nabess representing The Progressive Conservatives, and Wally Daudrich representing The Keystone Party. Voters can partake in early polling from July 11th to July 20th, with byelection day on Tuesday, July 21st

Residents of The Pas-Kameesak electoral division are eligible to vote if they are Canadian citizens, are at least 18 years old on election day, and have lived in Manitoba for at least six months. All voters must show ID to register or vote.

For more election details and to find early polling locations and hours, visit electionsmanitoba.ca 

A 59-year-old woman has died following an ATV crash in O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation.

South Indian Lake RCMP say officers responded to a single-vehicle collision on Airport Road just before six o'clock Thursday evening.

When police arrived, they found a group of people gathered around the seriously injured woman, while the ATV was located in a nearby ditch.

RCMP officers and Manitoba Wildfire Service paramedics, who flew in from Leaf Rapids, provided emergency medical care until a trauma helicopter from Thompson arrived. Despite their efforts, the woman died at the scene.

Police say the victim was one of the essential workers who had remained in the community during the current evacuation order. The investigation into the collision continues.

The Minisewin Family Resource Center has programming running to engage children, youth, and families in The Pas, OCN, and the surrounding area.

Michelle, the Community Cultural Coordinator for the center, talks about her vision for the program.

They are currently running a Literacy program where parents can bring their children, read books with them, and create their own book to take home. The center is also running a Nutrition Bingo, with winners receiving a nutritional meal kit to take home.

Michelle notes the importance of creating a safe space for women and girls who are victimized by gender-based violence. Her goal is for them to come into the center and try some cultural activities in a welcoming environment.

Go to the Minisewin Family Resource Center Facebook page to stay up to date with programming and events. Michelle aims to bring in other knowledge-keepers, such as Elders, to share their teachings. Those wanting to share knowledge teachings can message the Facebook page or call the Minisewin Family Resource Center office at 204-623-6349

The Pas RCMP have made an arrest following an early morning stabbing.

Police say officers were called to a home on Spruce Street at around 12:20 yesterday morning, where they found a 27-year-old man suffering from a serious, but non-life-threatening, stab wound.

The victim was taken to hospital in stable condition and is expected to be flown to Winnipeg for further treatment.

Investigators say the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle, but officers spotted it a short distance away and conducted a traffic stop.

A 30-year-old man from The Pas was arrested without incident.

He's been remanded into custody and is facing charges including aggravated assault, assault with a weapon, and operating a vehicle while prohibited.

A familiar face from Opaskwayak Cree Nation is taking on a new national role; Tiar Wheatle has been named host-producer at APTN National News.

Wheatle grew up on Jebb's Drive, attended Joe A. Ross School, and learned Cree from local teachers.

She proudly introduces herself in Cree during APTN newscasts 3 times a week, and will be taking over full-time in the fall, weaving the Cree language throughout the broadcast.

Here, Wheatle shares words of inspiration for youth in the community.

Wheatle says her journey from delivering the Natotawin newspaper, listening to CJ1240, and writing as a child helped drive her passion towards the national screen.

Job seekers, students, and anyone looking to explore new career opportunities can head to Opaskwayak starting today for a two-day Career Fair.

Hosted by Opaskwayak Education Services and the Pre-Employment Support Program, the event runs today and tomorrow from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Gordon Lathlin Memorial Center.

Organizers are welcoming residents from the Tri-Communities and surrounding area to connect with businesses, organizations and more than 50 networking resources.

Career exploration opportunities, along with merchandise and food vendors, will also be available throughout the event.

Registration is still open by contacting Opaskwayak Education Services.

The 2026 Northwest Roundup and Exhibition has been cancelled as the Swan Valley continues to recover from recent flooding.

The Swan River Valley Agricultural Society says the difficult decision was made after considering the ongoing State of Emergency, widespread clean-up efforts, and the need for emergency responders, contractors, volunteers and residents to remain focused on recovery.

The society also pointed to the emotional toll the disaster has taken on families and community members, saying now is a time for healing and rebuilding.

Instead of hosting this year's event, the Agricultural Society will donate 20-thousand dollars to Co-op Helps through the Swan River Valley Co-op to support local flood relief efforts.

Organizers are thanking sponsors, volunteers and the community for their understanding and continued support.

The local Recycling Centre is now accepting drop-offs as part of the first phase of its reopening.

Residents can bring in cardboard, paper, plastic containers, metal cans, and glass bottles and jars for recycling.

The recycling manager, Milan, is asking people to empty and rinse containers before dropping them off, flatten cardboard boxes to save space, and keep garbage and other non-recyclable materials separate from recyclables.

Here, Milan talks about the restored services.

The 24/7 drop-off service is the first phase of restoring services, but before they can restart full services, they need to continue to staff the facility properly.

They are still looking for 3 full-time staff members with class 5 licences. Email tricomrecycling@gmail.com to learn more.

Milan says they are excited to bring back these services and serve the tri community.

The Sam Waller Museum is offering plenty of opportunities to explore local history and creativity this summer.

Starting yesterday, the museum's free walking tours will run every Tuesday and Thursday from 2 until 3 p.m. through August 20.

Visitors can tour historic buildings around The Pas, hear stories from the community's past, and be guided by costumed interpreters. Tours will be cancelled if it rains.

The museum is also hosting Summer Camp Days every Wednesday in July.

David Makepeace, program coordinator with the museum, talks about this week’s summer camp program.

Sessions run from 10 until noon and again from 2 until 4. Registration is $10, with space limited to just 12 participants per time slot.

Cross Lake RCMP say a well-being check has led to the seizure of handguns and suspected drugs.

Police say officers were called Saturday morning to a home on Garrioch Drive to assist First Nation Safety Officers checking on the occupants of a residence. While outside the home, officers heard a disturbance inside before two males ran from the residence and fled into nearby bush toward the lake.

Investigators say one of the suspects dropped a handgun on a deck before both were chased and later found attempting to hide in the water.

Police arrested two Ontario men, ages 19 and 18. Officers seized two nine-millimetre handguns, loaded magazines, suspected cocaine, cash, illicit pills and drug-related paraphernalia.

Both suspects remain in custody as the investigation continues.

02.9 CJAR is gearing up to run its biggest on-air contest of the year. The “100 Grand In Your Hand” contest qualifiers run from July 10th to August 14th, with the final draw taking place on August 20th. Here, Dianne Russel, the station’s general manager, talks about how the contest works:

The contest has been running annually since 2019. It began as an in-person contest and moved on air due to COVID-19. The contest raises money for seniors in The Pas, with CJAR donating money to personal care homes to aid with recreational programming.

The Town of The Pas received a 47,000-dollar grant to help support safety initiatives in the community.

The Grant, in partnership with the government of Manitoba and The Pas RCMP, will be used to install high-resolution security cameras.

The goal is to enhance public safety and help support incident response in the Community.

The funding is being provided by the Criminal Forfeiture Fund, an initiative aimed at redistributing proceeds from crime. These funds are reinvested into law enforcement, victim services, and community safety projects.

A police-involved shooting in Norway House is now under investigation.

RCMP say officers responded to a disturbance call Saturday afternoon at around 3:35 after receiving reports that a 63-year-old man had threatened someone inside a home with a firearm. Police were later told the suspect was outside and had access to additional weapons in a nearby shed.

Mounties say officers contained the area after determining the man had barricaded himself inside the shed with a firearm. Crisis negotiators attempted to communicate and de-escalate the situation for several hours.

RCMP say shortly before 7:30, a confrontation occurred and the man was shot by police. Officers and EMS provided first aid, but the man later died from his injuries.

The Manitoba Independent Investigation Unit has now taken over the investigation.

A provincial byelection for the electoral division of The Pas-Kameesak has been called to select a new MLA (Member of the Legislative Assembly). The Pas-Kameesak's seat has been empty since March following the passing of NDP MLA Amanda Lathlin. The byelection will be held on Tuesday, July 21st, with advanced voting beginning on July 11th. There are 4 candidates in the running: Jennifer Flett representing Manitoba's New Democratic Party, Dan Quesnel representing Manitoba’s Liberal Party, Edna Nabess representing The Progressive Conservatives, and Wally Daudrich representing The Keystone Party.

Residents of The Pas-Kameesak electoral division are eligible to vote if they are Canadian citizens, are at least 18 years old on election day, and have lived in Manitoba for at least six months. All voters must show ID to register or vote.

The “Protecting Our Elders In The North” workshop will be held at The Pas Friendship Center on July 11th and 18th from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. The free workshop, which is open to seniors only, is an interactive community workshop that aims to bring awareness to elder abuse. Participants will learn how to recognize, prevent, and respond to elder abuse in a safe and welcoming space. Here, Dr. Abdulmalik, the founder of Mamo Memorial Peace Foundation, explains the workshop’s purpose.

Those wanting to register can text 548-708-1276.

Snow Lake RCMP are investigating a fatal workplace accident that claimed the life of a 50-year-old man on Canada Day.

Police say officers taking part in July 1st festivities at the Snow Lake beach noticed a helicopter landing near the local Health Centre shortly after 1:20 in the afternoon.

A 21-year-old man rushed for help, telling officers a worker on board had suffered serious injuries.

RCMP, EMS, hospital staff, and a Manitoba Conservation officer helped remove the injured man and get him inside for treatment.

Investigators say a four-person crew had been clearing trees at a remote work site to create a helicopter landing area when a tree fell in an unexpected direction and struck the victim.

The man later died from his injuries. RCMP and Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health continue to investigate.

The Pas Friendship Center has partnered up with SAFE Work Manitoba and The Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety to offer free access to a range of online health and safety training courses.

Participants can complete training at their own pace to earn certificates. There are 12 available courses, covering topics such as WHMIS, harassment and violence prevention, young worker readiness and more.

SAFE Work Manitoba is a division of the Workers' Compensation Board, dedicated to preventing workplace injury and illness through education and safety programming.

To register, contact itadmin@thepasfc.ca to create an account and access the free training. 

Big names are coming to Opaskwayak Indigenous Days 2026, and organizers are warning people not to wait if they want tickets.

Country star Doc Walker, rock group The Road Hammers, and Michelle Wright are scheduled to take the stage on August 11th, beginning at 7 p.m., while hip-hop artist Flo Rida will perform on August 13th at 7 p.m.

Tickets will be sold on a cash-only basis at this time, in front of the OCN Payment Centre inside the Otineka Mall.

With major acts on the lineup and strong local excitement already building, tickets are expected to go fast, so fans are encouraged to purchase early before they sell out.

Tickets for both concerts are priced at 100 dollars each and go on sale July 6^th starting at 11 am. Line up early to guarantee your spot.

Voters in The Pas-Kameesak are heading to the polls this month after a provincial by-election was officially called to choose a new MLA.

Election Day has been set for July 21st, with advance voting beginning July 11th. Residents can vote at any advance polling station or on Election Day, with polling hours running from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, except Sundays when polls will be open from noon until 6 p.m.

Eligible voters are encouraged to update their registration information before July 2nd to speed up the voting process. Registered voters will receive a voter information card, although residents can still register at the polls with proper identification.

To vote, residents must be Canadian citizens, at least 18 years old by election day, and have lived in Manitoba for at least six months.

Voting on July 21^st will take place at the local election office at 237 Fischer Avenue in The Pas, and additional election information can be found through Elections Manitoba.

A cultural gathering focused on tradition, learning and community is set to begin today in the Opaskwayak Cree Nation.

The Opaskwayak Sundance takes place from today till the fifth at Salt Channel Dike Road, Highway 283 West.

Dancers have until 6 pm today to pledge to dance for the next four years by presenting tobacco to the Sundance Chief.

Tomorrow, the lodge will be put up, Veronica Cook shares.

More ceremonies will take place on Saturday.

At the same time, The Pas Friendship Centre is creating opportunities for youth by sponsoring four participants aged 15 and older to attend the Sundance and learn directly from Elders and Knowledge Keepers.

Organizers say the experience is designed to strengthen cultural connections and celebrate Indigenous traditions in a respectful and supportive environment.

Lots of events will be running for Canada Day in The Pas. The Wanless Community Club will be hosting an afternoon gathering that will include free food and cake celebrating Canada’s heritage and will wrap up with fireworks, weather permitting.

The Sam Waller Museum is hosting a scavenger hunt and will be serving cake from 1 to 5 p.m.

Events begin at Devon Park with a gathering at 9 a.m. ahead of the Canada Day flag-raising ceremony at 9:30.

The annual parade will then roll out at 10:30, travelling from Devon Park to the Roy H. Johnston Arena.

Following the parade, there will be live entertainment featuring Low Budget Rock Star and The Pas Métis Fiddlers.

An artisan's market, kids' carnival, activities, and food will take place at the Roy from noon to 4 p.m.

A pickleball tournament will take place at the arena in the outdoor rink starting at 1:30 p.m. and is free to take part in. Prizes will be handed out.

A beer garden will be set up in the Legion parking lot from noon to 5 p.m., and events will kick off this evening with the OCN Blizzard hosting a movie night on the big screen outside the arena. Everyone is encouraged to bring chairs, snacks, and warm clothing.

The day wraps up with fireworks at Devon Park at dusk, weather permitting.

Nelson House RCMP are investigating a shooting in Nisichawayasihk First Nation that left a 13-year-old boy seriously injured.

Police say officers were called around 1:45 Thursday morning to reports of shots fired behind a building on McDonald Road. Investigators learned the youth had suffered multiple gunshot wounds.

The victim was transported to hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery and is currently listed in stable condition.

RCMP continue to investigate and are asking anyone with information to contact Nelson House RCMP or Manitoba Crime Stoppers. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online.

The Town passed the annual budget earlier this week, which included a $14 million capital investment, with only $82,000 coming from municipal ratepayers.

Another big announcement involved graffiti kits that the Town will make available shortly. Mayor Andre Murphy has some details.

Other things Murphy discussed included the naming of the Amanda Lathlin Memorial Primary Health Care Centre, noting that he had been in contact with the Premier and said that shovels need to be in the ground sooner than 2030.

A replacement loader will help with snow removal this winter, as well as grading and improving driveway clearing during snow removal operations.

Funding also includes equipment for the cracked ceiling and the airport, a humidifier for the Sam Waller Museum to help protect artifacts, and over a million dollars for paving projects that will take place on Reading, Bagshaw, and Trager, as well as the parking lots at Scott Bateman, MBCI, and the Winton Pool area.

A partnership between University College of the North and Margaret Barbour Collegiate Institute is helping students gain real-world business experience.

The schools recently wrapped up the 2026 BizQuest competition, where students developed and presented their own business concepts.

MBCI Business Teacher Lisa Gibb says it was inspiring to watch students apply classroom learning to real-world challenges and create original ideas of their own.

This year’s top performers were Praise Alexander in first place, earning a full year of tuition in UCN’s Business Faculty, Cooper Rousson in second place, Evelyn Parks in third, and Jace Dorion in fourth.

UCN says programs like BizQuest strengthen youth engagement while helping prepare students for future education and career opportunities across northern Manitoba.