The Town of The Pas has completed its new Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, an initiative funded by the Government of Manitoba through the Canadian Centre for Safer Communities.

Community and safety wellbeing coordinator Alexis Watts talks about the CSWB and what it will be used for.

The groups have collaborated on creating some pillars and solutions related to safety, housing, mental health, addictions, youth engagement, and overall quality of life for community members.

 They are looking at proactive ways to create conditions in which active community members can thrive.

You can find more information about the CSWB at townofthepas.ca.

Pukatawagan RCMP are investigating a drowning that claimed the life of a 51-year-old man over the weekend.

Police say officers were called Saturday evening after reports of a possible drowning on the lake.

Investigators say the man had been taking part in a canoe race when he fell into the water.

 He was wearing a life jacket and was quickly pulled from the lake before being taken to the Nursing Station, where he was later pronounced deceased.

For more than a century, CNIB has worked to support Canadians who are blind, partially sighted, or Deaf-blind by providing programs, advocacy, and access to resources that help improve quality of life.

That work is now rolling into The Pas with the CNIB Mobile Hub.

The event will offer accessible technology demonstrations, recreational programs, peer support opportunities, and services for individuals and families.

La-Toya Gibbons with the CINB shares on a brand new mobile eye screener that’s rolling out in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

The Non-invasive procedure takes about 30 seconds and will give more information about possible eye problems, and is really geared to younger children and first-time screenings

The Mobile Hub will be at the Oscar Lathlin Research Library at the UCN on Wednesday, July 8th, from 10 am until 2 pm.

Residents in The Pas are being invited to take part in a Summer Wellness Fair next week while health officials continue to stress the importance of prevention and testing amid Manitoba’s ongoing hepatitis outbreak.

The event takes place tomorrow from 3 until 6 p.m. at Kelsey Estates outside the Minisewin Family Resource Centre and will feature STBBI testing and education, immunizations, safer sharps information and sun safety resources, along with free snacks, games and prizes.

Health officials say Manitoba continues to deal with an ongoing Hepatitis A outbreak, with hundreds of cases reported across the province and expanded vaccine efforts now in place.

STBBI testing remains an important tool for early detection and treatment, helping people know their status and connect with care before health problems become more serious, and the Play It Safer Network in The Pas will be on hand to provide it.

Canada Day celebrations in The Pas will highlight Canadian heritage and community spirit with a full day of events on July first.

Canada’s confederation took place on July 1^st, 1867. Originally, the day was celebrated as Dominion Day, but it was later renamed Canada Day in 1982

Residents will begin the day with a flag-raising ceremony at Devon Park before taking part in the annual Canada Day parade, showcasing local organizations, businesses and community groups.

The celebration continues at Roy H. Johnston Arena with family activities, local crafters, food and live entertainment, including performances from Low Budget Rock Star and The Pas Métis Fiddlers, bringing music and culture to the day’s festivities.

The Sam Waller Museum will also host activities celebrating local history, and the Kelsey rec will have games and events for the kids set up at the Roy H Johnston Arena.

Events kick off on June 30^th in the evening with a free movie showing with the Blizzard outside the Roy H Johnston arena on the big screen.

A fundraiser in The Pas this weekend will give residents a chance to support local students while enjoying some food and family activities.

Minds on the Move, along with The Pas Fire Department, are hosting the annual BBQ and Car Wash on Saturday, June 20th, at the Fire Hall from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Funds raised will help support students travelling to Japan in 2028.

Community members can stop by for a bite to eat, get their vehicle washed and help support the students while enjoying a day of local activities. Both the car wash and the plates of food will cost 10 dollars

Organizers say every contribution makes a difference, and with Father’s Day this weekend, it’s a great opportunity to do something nice for dad.

National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations are getting underway across Manitoba this week, recognizing and celebrating the cultures, traditions and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

In The Pas, the Pas Friendship Centre is inviting the community to take part in its NIPD Street Festival on June 20th from noon until 4 p.m. at 81 Edwards Avenue.

Organizers say the free event will feature wrestlers, pow wow dancers, teepee teachings, live performances, more than 10 vendors, face painting, raffles and family activities.

Free food and free admission are also being offered.

National Indigenous Peoples Day is officially observed across Canada on June 21st, and communities throughout Manitoba will be hosting events focused on culture, learning and celebration.

The Pas RCMP say eight people are facing charges following a drug investigation earlier this month.

On June 10th, officers with the Manitoba Integrated Law Enforcement Team North, along with RCMP and several specialized police units, executed a search warrant at a residence on Lathlin Avenue in The Pas.

Police say they seized a loaded handgun, ammunition, and a quantity of suspected cocaine from the home. Four men and four women were arrested at the scene and now face multiple firearm-related charges.

Investigators also say one suspect was wanted on a Canada-wide warrant for violating parole, while another was wanted for breaching a conditional sentence order.

RCMP say the investigation remains ongoing.

People in The Pas looking for help with substance use and addiction concerns may have local options available through regional health services.

The RAAM Clinic is a partnership between the Northern Health Region and the Opaskwayak Health Authority.

Jacob Davids, Director of Primary Care, shares information about the RAAM Clinic and what it is used for.

The program is offered out of Rosser House.

The Pas Health Complex, Primary Health Care Centre and Opaskwayak Health Authority can provide access to support, assessments and treatment planning through regional programs.

The race for the position of MLA in The Pas Kameesak is now underway, and there are 3 candidates seeking the job.

The nomination meeting will take place on June 22nd, with Jennifer Flett, Lori Lathlin, and Elise Lathlin vying for the position.

The Pas Kameesak covers a wide range of people and a large area, including The Pas, OCN, RM of Kelsey, Cormorant, the Interlake, Fisher River, Peguis, Grand Rapids, and more.

Yesterday, the membership deadline to be able to vote for a candidate wrapped up, and those who paid the membership fee will be able to vote for their preferred candidate during the nomination meeting.

The NDP nomination meeting will take place on June 22nd, and the voting for an NDP candidate will take place at that meeting. The by-election will be coming shortly after.

A reminder for athletes across northern Manitoba that time is running out to register for the Pas Tri-Community Triathlon.

The registration deadline is tomorrow, Thursday, June 18, ahead of race day on Saturday, June 20, at the Kelsey Recreation Centre in The Pas.

The annual event brings together swimmers, cyclists, and runners of all ages and abilities, with something for everyone, from Kids of Steel races for younger participants to a Super-Sprint triathlon for teens and adults. The Super-Sprint includes a 300-metre swim, a 10-kilometre bike ride, and a 3-kilometre run.

The goal of the event is participation and community spirit, welcoming athletes from The Pas, Opaskwayak Cree Nation, and surrounding areas.

But they’re warning that registration will close firmly tomorrow, and late entries will not be accepted.

Anyone interested is encouraged to sign up right away before the deadline passes and secure their spot on the starting line this weekend.

A popular summer program is returning this year for families looking to keep kids active and engaged. Kelsey Recreation’s Kids Camp will run from July 6 to August 28 and is open to children born between 2016 and 2020.

The eight-week program offers a new theme each week, including Mad Scientist, Mission Impossible, Ocean Explorers, Lost in Space, and Camp Mash-Up. Kids will also take part in activities like crafts, games, and special lake days.

Camp runs Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Wellness Centre Multi-Purpose Room. The cost is 127 dollars per week, with a reduced rate of 105 dollars for Week Five, which is only 4 days.

Registration is open now. For more information or to sign up, families can call 204-627-1134 or email KRC@townofthepas.ca.

Organizers say spots are expected to fill quickly.

The Mathias Colomb Cree Nation in northern Manitoba is calling for urgent action after repeated transportation failures have left the community facing major disruptions.

Leaders say rail service to Pukatawagan has been delayed again due to locomotive shortages, stranding passengers in The Pas and putting essential food and supplies at risk of spoilage. The Nation reports ongoing delays in restocking store shelves and rising concern over access to basic necessities.

Chief Gordie Bear says the situation is unacceptable, pointing to weeks of past service interruptions that previously required emergency food and airlifts into the community.

The Hudson Bay Railway and Keewatin Railway Company are being urged to restore reliable service and develop contingency plans.

The First Nation says it continues to shoulder significant costs and is calling on all levels of government to take immediate action.

A new opportunity is opening doors for young entrepreneurs in the Opaskwayak Cree Nation. The Paskwayak Business Development Corporation is launching its Youth Business Assistance Program, aimed at helping local youth aged 16 to 20 start or grow their own small businesses.

Successful applicants may qualify for up to 500 dollars in start-up funding, which can be used for equipment, supplies, marketing, and other business needs. The program supports both new and existing business ideas located on or near OCN lands.

To apply, youth must submit a completed application form, a two-page business plan, and a six-month sales projection, along with a small personal contribution and required documentation.

PBDC says staff are available to help participants develop their ideas, build business plans, and complete applications.

Applications are now open through the Paskwayak Business Development Corporation in Opaskwayak, Manitoba.

Anglers on the Saskatchewan River system, including Cedar Lake and Cumberland Lake, are being urged to report any sturgeon caught with Floy tags as part of an ongoing conservation program.

The Saskatchewan River Sturgeon Management Board says fishers should record the tag number, tag colour, green in Saskatchewan and orange in Manitoba, along with the capture location and the fish’s length. Reports can be made by calling 204-620-5311 or messaging the board’s Facebook page.

Each tagged sturgeon also carries a PIT tag as a backup tracking method, helping researchers monitor the species even if external tags are lost. Every fish has a unique ID, allowing scientists to study movement and population health across the river system.

Lake sturgeon are a long-lived and slow-growing species, making them especially vulnerable to overfishing and habitat changes.

Officials say public cooperation is essential, noting that every report helps protect one of the river’s most important and ancient species for future generations.

A new exhibit opened up last week at the Sam Waller Museum featuring metal work by local artist Dan Jones called “Metalmorphosis”

Here, museum Director Jaxon Baker talks about Dan’s work and the exhibit.

There was a reception held last week in celebration of Dan’s first formal exhibit. The exhibit will be on display until August 28^th.

The Museum is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sundays during the summer from noon to 5 pm.

Attention history lovers! The Sam Waller Museum is hosting its annual membership drive from May 7 through June 23. Now’s your chance to support the Sam Waller museum and be entered into a special prize draw featuring all things related to The Pas!

Memberships start at just $15 for seniors and students, with options for individuals, families, supporting members, patrons, and even a lifetime membership at $1,500.

Every membership comes with perks, including a 10% discount in the gift shop, free museum admission, access to exclusive events, early registration for workshops, and the museum’s bi-annual newsletter.

Stop by the museum any Tuesday through Saturday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to sign up or catch the team at Grub Box this Saturday, June 21.

Join the Sam Waller Museum, support local history, and have a chance to take home unique local prizes.

University College of the North has been named the lead institution for a new international network on solid waste management in the Arctic.

The University of the Arctic approved the Thematic Network on Solid Waste Management on May 29th in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands. UCN’s Dr. Anderson Assuah, who will lead the network, presented the proposal in person.

The initiative aims to help Arctic communities tackle waste challenges caused by extreme weather, remoteness, and policy gaps. It will emphasize working directly with communities and respecting Indigenous approaches to waste management.

The network will foster research, workshops, webinars, and community projects, connecting eleven institutions across five Arctic countries, including Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands.

Dr. Assuah says the goal is simple but vital: “To bring about sustainable solutions for the unique challenges Arctic communities face.”

A local resident and councillor at Scott Bateman Middle School, Kristy Wilby, is expanding emotional support services in The Pas with a new web series designed to help youth navigate stressful emotional situations and promote well-being.

“Insights for Little’s” is available on YouTube and features episodes that guide young people through various emotions while teaching coping skills.

The channel is new, but Wilby plans to grow it quickly. She has more.

“Insights for Little’s” was born from that need and from Wilby’s experience and desire to help.

Northern Insights Expressive Arts Therapy Services offers creative, person-centred therapy for individuals dealing with emotional and mental health challenges, with flexible session options and multiple funding pathways available. More information can be found at NorthernInsights.ca.

The Show and Shine is back and coming up this weekend, showcasing vehicles of all shapes and sizes after last year’s cancellation due to wildfires.

The Pas and Area Animal Shelter will be helping out, fundraising with a BBQ to support local animals’ needs.

The event would not be possible without all the amazing volunteers, sponsors, and car enthusiasts who make it happen.

Everyone is encouraged to take part and show off whatever vehicles you like. This includes everything from classic cars to newer models, off-road vehicles, motorcycles, or even project vehicles you might want to display.

There will be different prize categories, including loudest exhaust, best project vehicle, best looking 4x4, best looking car, best looking truck, and a People’s Choice award.

Anyone with a custom vehicle is encouraged to bring it to the Show and Shine this Saturday at the Andersen Inn and Suites from noon to 4:00 pm.

The Pas-Kameesak remains without a provincial representative following the death of MLA Amanda Lathlin in March.

Lathlin, who represented the riding since 2015, was the first First Nations woman elected to Manitoba's legislature and was widely respected for her advocacy on behalf of northern and Indigenous communities.

As of June, the Manitoba government has not announced a date for a by-election to fill the vacant seat. No candidates have officially entered the race, although political observers expect interest from community and Indigenous leaders across the region.

The riding has long been considered an NDP stronghold, and many expect the party to remain competitive whenever a vote is called.

In the meantime, constituency office staff continue assisting residents while the community awaits word on when it will once again have representation in the Manitoba Legislature.

Communities across the Swan Valley remain under a flood emergency after a weekend storm dumped 150 millimetres to 190 millimeters of rain across the region.

The heavy rainfall caused rivers and creeks to overflow, flooding homes, roads, and farmland throughout the valley. States of emergency remain in effect in Swan River and Minitonas-Bowsman as crews continue assessing damage and assisting affected residents.

In an effort to relieve pressure from rising floodwaters, crews cut a section of Highway 10 south of Swan River, allowing water to drain away from heavily affected areas. Several other roads and highways remain closed due to washouts and high water.

Officials say runoff from the Duck Mountains continues to feed local waterways, and residents are being urged to avoid flooded roads and monitor emergency updates.

Emergency rescue teams are being brought in to assist those needing help.

Authorities describe the flooding as one of the most significant events the region has experienced in years.

The Pas Helping Hands 4-H Club is inviting the community to support local youth programs with its dinner fundraiser tonight.

The event will be held this evening, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Halcrow Lake Golf Club’s Lunch Shack.

Guests can enjoy a variety of menu items, including borscht, perogies with a smokie and coleslaw, a perogy-only option, and pulled bison on a bun with coleslaw. Proceeds from the featured menu items will go directly to support 4-H activities and programs.

The fundraiser will offer both dine-in and take-out service.

There will also be a fundraising plant sale with the 4-H at the Métis hall on Saturday from 10 to 4 pm, featuring a variety of locally planted vegetables and house plants.

The Tri-Community Triathlon is back following last year’s cancellation due to wildfires.

There is less than two weeks until the event, and there is still time to register.

The event is open to everyone aged 6 and up. Proper equipment is required, such as bikes and helmets.

There are different distances depending on age group, all the way up to the full triathlon, which includes a 300-meter swim, 10 km bike ride, and 3 km run.

Registration can be done online at triathlonmanitoba.ca. The event takes place on Saturday, June 20th, with races starting at 9 a.m.

Volunteers are still needed. Find more information on The Pas Tri-Community Triathlon Facebook page.

Residents of The Pas can once again enjoy backyard fire pits and outdoor burning activities after the local fire ban was officially lifted, effective immediately.

The Pas Fire Department announced the decision following significant rainfall across the region, along with increased humidity levels and a reduced wildfire risk. Officials say recent weather conditions have improved enough to safely resume standard outdoor burning practices.

The department has been closely monitoring weather patterns and fuel moisture levels in recent weeks. Fire officials determined that conditions no longer warrant the open-air fire restrictions that had previously been in place.

While the ban has been lifted, residents are being reminded to continue following municipal burning bylaws. Recreational fire pits, backyard barbecues, and approved outdoor burning appliances are now permitted once again.

However, officials note that large-scale brush burning and land-clearing operations still require a valid burning permit through Natural Resources.

The Fire Department is also urging residents to practice fire safety at all times. Outdoor fires should never be left unattended, and a reliable extinguishing source, such as a garden hose or bucket of water, should always be kept nearby. All fires must be fully extinguished before leaving the area.

In a statement, the Fire Chief thanked residents and visitors for their cooperation during the fire ban, saying their patience and adherence to restrictions played a critical role in helping keep the community safe during a period of elevated fire risk.

For more information on burning permits and local fire safety regulations, residents are encouraged to contact The Pas Fire Department or visit the Town of The Pas website.