The Pas Local News Archives for 2019-04

Opaskwayak Cree Nation Makes a Statement Regarding an Incident at Rod McGillivary Memorial Care Home

Opaskwayak Cree Nation issued a statement on Friday regarding an incident at Rod McGillivary Memorial Care Home.

 

The incident was talked about on social media and although the shared concern regarding patient care within the elder’s home on OCN is appreciated and the value in engaging with one another on social media is understood, OCN members are reminded to make official complaints to appropriate authorities.

 

The Opaskwayak Health Authority has a quality and safety coordinator at the Beatrice Wilson Health Centre and the position was created to help community members with concerns and incidents regarding patient care within all of OCN’S health facilities. 

 

The number to call the quality and safety Coordinator is 204-627-7410.

Opaskwayak Cree Nation Members Invited to Sit on the Election Board

Opaskwayak Cree Nation is looking for OCN members to sit on the community’s election board.

 

Seven members are required and it’s a two year term that will end in March of 2021.

 

If you wish to apply you are required to submit your resumes along with a criminal record check, vulnerable sector check, a child abuse registry check, and a letter stating why you wish to sit on the board.

 

The deadline to submit applications is May 2nd at 4:30.  They can be dropped off at the O&O office or they can be mailed to Box 10880 Opaskwayak Manitoba R0B 2J0.

 

For eligibility requirements and additional information call Nancy Dorion at 204-627-7193.

H.A.L.E Autism Holds Lego Based Social Development Therapy Session in The Pas

HALE Autism held a special Lego based social development therapy session and a presentation about autism at The Pas library annex on Saturday.

 

Co-Owner Lynn Hooker spoke to arctic radio news and said that the company started about 7 years ago running social skills groups for people on the spectrum to teach them about unwritten social rules, something that people on the spectrum often struggle with.

 

The Lego session teaches social skills using turn taking, compromising, and other social rules using an activity that children enjoy.

 

Hooker’s son Kristian a young man on the spectrum and co owner of HALE worked with the participants in the Lego session.

 

The workshop was a followed by a presentation that talked about autism and how this program can help those on the spectrum.

Public Hearing tonight at The Pas Council Chambers

Residents of The Pas are reminded that tonight there will be a public hearing at The Pas Council Chambers at 6PM

 

The hearing is regarding bylaw 4592 that would amend the 100 foot undisturbed native vegetation area required for lands located adjacent to Clearwater Lake.

 

For more information on this bylaw call Jenn Early at 204-627-1108

Province to Transfer Ownership of Grace Lake Airport to Mathias Colomb Cree Nation

The Manitoba government is entering into an agreement with Beaver Air Services Limited Partnership, Missinippi Management, and Mathias Colomb Cree Nation on the sale of the Grace Lake Airport.

 

Premier Brian Pallister stated in a news release that the transfer of the Grace Lake Airport to a community based company owned and operated by a first nation’s entity means the real benefits of this agreement will stay in the community for a long time.

 

He noted that they believe strongly in MCCN and their companies in their ability to continue to bring real economic benefits to the people of their community.

 

MCCN Chief Lorna Bighetty would like to thank the Manitoba Government for the opportunity to ensure that the ownership remains in the community and they look forward to continuing to work with the government and their partners to keep economic benefits of this agreement at home.

The Pas and District Chamber of Commerce and Manitoba Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Tour Held Last Week

The Pas and District Chamber of Commerce and the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce had a two day economic development tour last week designed to showcase The Pas and area to delegates of various organizations and potential investors.

 

Delegates that attended the tour were selected by MCC and they took part in round table discussions and toured several local businesses and institutions.

The Pas and District Chamber of Commerce president Trent Allen Stated in a news release the economic tour was another key step in bringing greater visibility to what makes our region great and where we can see investment and growth.

 

He added that in speaking with the delegates there were many favourable impressions of the tri area and he looks forward to seeing what comes out of the efforts.

Free Conversational English Sessions at the Library

Free conversational English sessions will be held at The Pas Regional Library on Monday nights at 7 from May 6th until June 17th.

 

Instructor Susan Flett Young spoke to Arctic Radio and said the sessions are designed to formulate a community conversation group for newcomers to Canada or for people whose first language is not English. The sessions will give these people a chance to build their English language skills and learn about Canadian Culture.

 

If you are interested in taking part in these sessions you can register by calling Flett Young at 204-627-8802.

Flin Flon Firefighters are Part of a Stair climb Challenge Supporting Cancer Treatment

Firefighters from Flin Flon will climb the steps of Calgary’s Bow Building  in support of firefighters and citizens living with cancer.

 

The annual event is hosted by the Calgary Firefighters Benevolent Society and the stair climb involves seven hundred and seventy-five vertical feet consisting of 1204 steps in 55 flights of stairs

 

The group has been training for the past several months and the event raises money for Wellspring Calgary which is a non-profit organization that provides care to people diagnosed with caner

 

The stair Climb will take place on May 5th you can donate to the cause at calgarystairclimb.com

The Northern Manitoba Tourism Award Winners

The Northern Manitoba Tourism Awards Gala Was held last night at the Kikiwak Inn.

 

The Event of the Year award went to The Blueberry Jam Music Festival, the Partnership Award went to Calm Air, the Award of Distinction went to Volker Beckmann, the Innovation Award went to Nights Under Lights, and Opaskwayak Indian Days and Wapusk Adventures tied for the Indigenous Tourism Award.

 

The Pas mayor Herb Jaques told Arctic Radio that it was great that the tourism awards gala was held locally and it was good that there were some local nominations as well since The Pas and area has a lot to offer.

 

The Northern Manitoba Trappers Festival and The Jimmy Jackfish Ice Fishing Derby were both nominated for Event of The Year.

The Pas and District Chamber of Commerce Partnering with The Pas Community Renewal Corporation to Bring Flowers Back to the Downtown Area

The Pas and District Chamber of Commerce and The Pas Community Renewal Corporation are joining forces and they’ve submitted an application under the destination marketing committee to bring flowers back to the downtown area of The Pas.

 

Chamber of Commerce Office Manager Jennifer Cook says the chamber wanted to see the downtown area come alive this summer and The Pas Community Renewal Corporation has community beautification in their organizational goals.

 

Flower pots and flowers will be given to various locations in the downtown core and the project will hopefully create a brighter and more positive environment.

Kindergarten to Grade 12 Education Review Workshops

The Manitoba Commission on Kindergarten to Grade 12 Education is hosting an interactive public workshop at the Wescana Inn on May 6th.

 

The commission will be using the information provided by participants to develop a recommendation for an independent review of Manitoba’s Elementary and secondary education system.

 

The workshop will be held from 6 until 8:30 in the evening.

Niki Ashton Calling for a Green New Deal

MP Niki Ashton’s latest MP report stated that we can tackle climate change and create jobs.

 

In the upcoming weeks the NDP will lay out a plan for the environment and part of the plan is a commitment to retrofit all housing stock in the country by 2050.

 

Buildings are the third largest source of Canada’s GHG emissions every year and in order to reduce emissions a meaningful change is to improve existing building stock.

 

With these improvements families can save an average of almost $900 a year.

Rhonda Head Now a Board Member for Aboriginal Music Manitoba

Award winning Opaskwayak Cree Nation musician Rhonda Head is now a board member for Aboriginal Music Manitoba.

 

Head says she was chosen as a board member to represent Northern Manitoba musicians and that it’s really good to be a part of the organization.

 

Aboriginal Music Manitoba is dedicated to developing the aboriginal music community.

 

If you would like to know how Aboriginal Music Manitoba can help you call Rhonda at 204-620-2650.

Northern Tourism Gala Tonight

The Northern Tourism Awards Gala is tonight at the Kikiwak Inn.

 

The Northern Manitoba Trappers Festival and the Jimmy Jackfish Ice fishing Derby have both been nominated for Event of the Year, Opaskwayak Indian Days and Treaty and York Boat Days have been nominated in the indigenous tourism category, and Northern Adventure Guides Mobile Apps have been nominated for the innovation award.

 

The awards Gala runs from 6:45 until 9PM.

Hudbay Outreach Presentation Tomorrow

Opaskwayak Cree Nation and Hudbay will be having an outreach presentation tomorrow afternoon at the Kikiwaks Inn’s Bignell room.

 

The purpose of this presentation is to acquaint the community with the company about potential employment and business opportunities.

 

The presentation runs from 1 until 3PM.

Amanda Lathlin Addresses Disabilities Services Funding Concerns

The Pas MLA Amanda Lathlin Recently addressed funding concerns for disability services during question period last week.

 

She said that there is a growing demand for services for children with physical and intellectual disabilities and last year the Pallister government made program changes and froze the intake for the inclusion support program.

 

As a result the number of children provided service through the inclusion support program fell by 8 percent last year to the lowest it has been in nearly a decade.

 

Minister of Families Heather Stefanson responded to Lathlin’s question by saying that they care very deeply about children living with disabilities in the province and they are spending more than the NDP’S ever did when they were in office.

 

She added that they also care very much about adults with disabilities and other vulnerable Manitobans which is why they continue to invest in programs that are working to improve their lives.

 

According to Stefanson they have invested more than 13 million dollars in community living and disability services in this budget alone.

Unplanned Power Outage in The Pas

An unplanned power outage has affected some customers here in The Pas, the cause of the outage is not known right now but according to Manitoba Hydro's website it should be restored around 6 this evening.

Niki Ashton Addresses Autism Services in Canada

With autism awareness month drawing to a close MP Niki Ashton spoke to Arctic Radio about what the federal government should do to support people on the autism spectrum and their families across the country.

 

Ashton says the federal government needs to be a partner in supporting provinces and communities in offering services and that there needs to be proper support in terms of health and education and people need to acknowledge just how increasingly common autism really is and how important it is to ensure that funding is in place to support those on the spectrum.

 

The NDP’s supported a motion calling for a Canadian Autism Partnership and they looked at ways that they can work with advocates to ensure that services are in place. The NDP’S also supported a motion put forward by the Conservatives on autism which was defeated by the Liberal Government.

 

For The NDP they have been outspoken on the need for federal leadership on autism and it’s something they will continue to advocate for and they firmly believe that the government needs to enact a strategy for people on the spectrum and back it up with the much needed funding.

The Pas and District Chamber of Commerce Calling on The Town to Take Action on Safety and Negative Impacts on Downtown Businesses

The Pas and District Chamber of Commerce is calling on The Town of The Pas to take serious action regarding concerns over safety and negative impacts on businesses in the downtown area.

 

Chamber president Trent Allen says there has been a long vocal outcry regarding the problems associated with loitering and vandalism in the area.

 

A survey conducted two years ago found that the downtown area was the greatest concern to respondents with the 200 block of Edwards Avenue topping the list of troublesome locations.

 

Concerns with the downtown area often increase in the spring and summer and the chamber wants the town of The Pas to reinforce their commitment to support local businesses and help address these concerns.

 

Skye Charlette Found Safe

The RCMP has reported that Skye Charlette the missing woman from Cranberry Portage has been found safe. They thank the public for their assistance.

Manitoba Library Associations Prison Libraries Committee Wins an Award for Their Hard Work

The Manitoba Library Associations Prison Libraries Committee recently won the Premiers Volunteer Service Award in the community category of Volunteer Manitoba’s 36th Annual Volunteer Awards.

 

The Pas Regional library is part of the Prison Libraries Committee and it’s a volunteer group that provides collections, programming, and library awareness for incarcerated adults in the justice system.

 

The group provides service to four facilities in Manitoba including The Pas Correctional Centre by providing the residents with books to read and they try to provide them with new material whenever possible.

 

Lauren Wadeluis from The Pas Regional Library says that it’s a lot of hard work that is very rewarding and it was great to receive the Premiers Volunteer Service Award.

 

 

 

 

Amanda Lathlin Addresses Child and Family Services Block Funding Concerns

During Question period recently The Pas MLA Amanda Lathlin addressed cutting costs to the child welfare system.

 

Lathlin said that funding was blocked without working with agencies and partners in the child welfare system and they have heard from many leaderships and agencies that are concerned with how they will deal with increasing costs in the future.

 

Minister of Families’ Heather Stefanson responded by saying quote “We have heard loud and clear from communities access the province and that the perverse incentivization of the apprehension of children based on the previous funding model is not working.

 

She added that they will continue to ensure that the funding is there for the children who need it the most. Lathlin pointed out that the Child and Families Services newcomer Unit was cut even though it helped newcomers to the province through complex situations to ensure that their families stayed together.

 

When Lathlin asked if the newcomer unit would be reinstated Stefanson said they care very deeply about new comers to our province and they will ensure that resources are there for newcomers when they arrive.

Opaskwayak Cree Nation Taking Action to Address Their Animal Population

Opaskwayak Cree Nation is taking action to address the animal population in the community.  

 

Vice Chief Jennifer Flett says OCN has hired animal control officers to capture animals that are at large in the community to address safety concerns and to follow their animal control bylaw. Animals are being caught and kept for two days.

 

If you have lost your dog call 204-627-7100 and ask for public works.

Northern Urban Reserves and Economic Development Forum Held in Thompson

Last week, Jennifer Flett the Vice Chief attended the Northern Urban economic development forum in Thompson last week.

 

The forum involved a combination of businesses and stakeholders from across the province that looked at the growth of Northern Manitoba.

 

Flett said a report by Look North was tabled about at the meeting and the report found that the Indigenous People’s contribution to Manitoba’s GDP is up over a billion dollars. Flett says that this report says a lot about how indigenous peoples contribute to the provincial economy.

 

She added that it was good to have people from all areas of Manitoba that wanted to take part in the meeting.

Safe Needles in the Community Presentations

Special presentations called “Safe Needles in the Community” will be held on May 7th at one in the afternoon and seven in the evening at the Kikiwak Inns Bignell room.

 

The presentations will be conducted by Community Health Nurse Christie Wilson to discuss the dangers of needles and what you should do if you see them in your community with a goal of preventing hepatitis C and other blood bourne illnesses.

 

It’s free to attend and if you need more information call 204-627-7410.

Not Using Seatbelts as Dangerous as Distracted Driving

A dangerous driving activity still persists in 2019.

 

RCMP Sgt. Paul Manaigre said that 60 per cent of people killed in passenger vehicles in 2018 weren’t wearing seatbelts.

 

Manaigre said around 1100 to 1200 people are charged in Manitoba each year for not wearing a seatbelt.  That’s higher than the number for texting or using an electronic device while driving, at 900-1,000.

 

Manitoba Public Insurance spokesman Brian Smiley said changing driver behaviour takes a long time, and requires a combination of education and awareness on MPI’s end, along with law enforcement making up the third piece of the puzzle.

 

The $300 fine, plus two demerits, he said, is a strong motivator for drivers to obey the law, even if their personal safety isn’t a priority.

High Water Level Warning in Effect For The Pas

A high water advisory is in effect for the Carrot and Saskatchewan Rivers near The Town of The Pas.

 

People living near the rivers should be cautious and people are advised not to cross fast flowing waters or water of unknown depth and avoid flooded areas.

 

 

Opaskwayak Cree Nation Achieves Financial Management System Certification

In less than three years the leaders of Opaskwayak Cree Nation has elevated the communities’ financial status from nearing third party management to being recognized by the financial management board.

 

OCN is now the 18th First Nation in Canada and the second in Manitoba to receive the Financial Management System Certification a rare yet growing accomplishment among indigenous communities.  

 

In their journey towards getting this certification OCN Developed a financial administration law and received a financial performance certificate.

 

OCN Chief Christian Sinclair stated in a news release they struggle to meet their communities’ social needs as their membership continues to grow which is why it’s important to put economic development first because without

financial stability they cannot take care of the community.

Town of The Pas Putting a Motion Forward To The Association of Manitoba Municipalities to Heighten Protection for Volunteer Fire Fighters

The Town of The Pas will be putting a motion forward to the Association of Manitoba Municipalities.

 

Town Councillor Chad Zolinski spoke to Arctic radio news and said the motion is being put forward in response to The Town of The Pas and Volunteer fire fighters being named in a lawsuit regarding the Town Centre Hotel Fire from 2017.

 

The goal of this motion is to provide better protection for volunteer fire fighters for when they work for a municipality.

 

This motion is expected to be talked about at future council meetings.

Opaskwayak Cree Nation Band Member Recognized By the Province for Community Volunteerism

The leaders of Opaskwayak Cree Nation would like to congratulate Lyle Crain for receiving this year’s Lieutenant Governors Make a Difference Community Award. He accepted the award at the 36th Annual Volunteer Manitoba Awards Dinner in Winnipeg last night.

 

According to a news release Mr. Crain has been an active volunteer on OCN for over a decade and some of the programs that benefit from his time and energy are Opaskwayak Indian Days, OCN Recreation, the OCN Blizzard and Storm hockey teams, the Canoe Club and their Community Gardens. He is currently the president of the Opaskwayak Minor Hockey Association and has taken on a coaching role over the past four years.

 

His volunteering efforts have had a rippling effect on his own children and they are often seen contributing toward making OCN a safe space for all members.

 

Chief Christian Sinclair says the prestigious award is a reminder to the entire community about the importance of creating space where there is an opportunity to see one another flourish.

The Pas and Area Animal Shelter May Long Weekend Booze Draw Fundraiser

The Pas and Area Animal Shelter is having a May Long Weekend Booze Draw for a chance to win some MLCC gift cards.

 

All proceeds will go towards a new fence for the shelter and tickets can be purchased from committee members for just five dollars.

 

The draw will be on May 17th

Niki Ashton Reprimands Trudeau Government For Giving Money to Loblaws and Ignoring the Norman Region

Niki Ashton is continuing to press Ottawa when it comes to money that she doesn’t think is being spent wisely.

 

Ashton recently asked the Prime Minister why money is going to his billionaire friends when First Nations and hurting Canadians get nothing. 

 

She said that last week she asked the government to address urgent food insecurity in our region because of climate change, and that they quote delivered giving 12 million dollars to Loblaws, a company headed up by the second richest Canadian. 

 

Ashton added Liberals also gave four point five billion dollars to a rich American oil company and that quote in the eyes of this Liberal government it’s clear that every problem can be solved by giving money to your billionaire friends while First Nations already hurting from climate change get nothing.

 

In response, Environment Minister Catherine McKenna noted that the money given to Loblaws will be used to update to energy efficient freezers and coolers, which she says will be equivalent to taking 50 thousand cars off the road a year.

 

She added that the company is paying three quarters of the cost.

Judy Klassen Seeking Liberal Nomination for Federal Election

Judy Klassen has officially thrown her hat in the ring.

 

The Liberal MLA, who represents the Keewatinook riding, has filed her papers with the Federal Liberal Party, and is seeking the nomination to run in the upcoming federal election against Niki Ashton.

 

Klassen says that Justin Trudeau and the federal government have made much-needed investments into Truth and Reconciliation initiatives, as well as significant investments in the Nor-Man economy.

 

She added that Manitoba’s north needs these investments now more than ever, and that quote Prime Minister Trudeau and the Federal Liberals are the only choice to ensure that the north continues to see this much-needed investment and work for truth and reconciliation within our indigenous communities.

 

Klassen, who first entered politics in the 2016 Manitoba election, still has to be formally nominated as the Liberal candidate for the riding before any potential race against Ashton, while there has not yet been any word on a Conservative Party candidate.

 

The federal election is scheduled for October.

 

Photo From Facebook

Public Hearing For By Law 4592 Rescheduled to April 29th

The Town of The Pas has announced that their public hearing for By Law 4592 will now be held on April 29th at 6PM instead of April 23rd.

 

According to a notice from the town the general intent of this by law is to amend the 100 foot undisturbed native vegetation area required for lands located adjacent to Clearwater Lake.

 

For more information on this bylaw call Jenn Early at 204-627-1108

Annual Mayor Reports For 2018

The Annual Mayor Reports for 2018 have been released. Most of the offences committed in The Pas last year were disturbances of the peace a total of 1520.

 

The RM of Kelsey had mostly provincial traffic violations a total of 615.

 

And most of the offences in the community of Cormorant were assaults a total of 21.

Kelsey School Division Meeting

Vaughn Wadeluis spoke to Arctic Radio News recently to talk about what was discussed that their last board meeting.  The strategic plan for  2019-2022 was approved and it has four main objectives.

 

The first objective is the drainage problem between Scott Bateman Middle School and MBCI, and the other objectives are student wellness and engagement, looking at ways to improve communication with the public, and to look at ways to improve technology within the school division.

 

It was also reported that the building and maintenance committee is in the process of touring each school to take a firsthand look at each facility to see what the buildings problems might be.

 

The transportation committee also reported that they are very concerned about various stop arm violations around the school meaning that some people pass school buses when the buses stop signs and arms are out which carries a hefty fine for violators.

 

The policy committee also updated their communicable disease policy and the trustee’s code of conduct was updated as well.

RCMP Looking For Help Naming Foals

Your Children Can Help Name a Future RCMP Musical Ride Horse.

 

The RCMP are asking for help in naming twelve foals that will be born this spring at the RCMP breeding farm in Ontario. 

 

Superintendent Kevin Fahey says this is the 80th anniversary of their breeding program and they can’t think of a better way to name the foals that are born at their farm than by asking kids across Canada to help them.

 

Up to twelve winning names will be selected including one classroom entry.

 

Each winner will each receive a prize pack that includes a photo of the foal they named, a certificate signed by the RCMP Commissioner and an engraved horse shoe. 

 

The winning classroom will receive a framed photo of the foal they named along with the signed certificate.

 

To qualify, participants must be 14 years old or younger and must live in Canada.

 

There is a limit of one entry per person.

 

All names submitted for the contest must start with the letter “R” and must be in by April 30th.

 

You can click here for more information, or to submit an entry.

Niki Ashton Doesn't Hold Back When Indigenous Theatre Program Denied Funding

Our Member of Parliament is not happy with a recent decision from the Trudeau Government to deny funding for an Indigenous theatre program at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa.

 

Niki Ashton said that there has been a request for funding for the program for two years, and that they want the money so they can tell the stories of Indigenous peoples.

 

She said that the funding was denied as the Minister of Canadian Heritage said that Ottawa already spent money on the NAC this year, which Ashton points out went to renovations.

 

Ashton then asked if “the Liberal government looks for new and creative ways to insult Indigenous peoples or if it just comes naturally?”.

 

Gary Anandasangaree, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism, responded to Ashton by saying that the Liberal’s are making “ historic investments in arts and those who create art”, and that “together we will continue to move toward

The Pas Spray Park Project Update

Davide Novo, the president of The Pas Families Building a Better Community Group conducted a presentation at Monday night’s committee of the whole meeting to give an update on the spray park project for the The Pas.

 

Novo said the committee wanted to know if the spray park would have an attendant to supervise the park and they also wanted to know what the hours of operation would be.

 

He clarified that spray parks don’t typically have attendants and that the park is programmable so the town can choose when to turn off the water and when to turn it on.

 

One of the next steps is to raise the remaining funds needed to complete the park which they plan to do that with a touch a truck event that is expected to be held in the near future.

 

Upgrades also need to be made to Centennial Park such as putting in new picnic tables and benches.

 

The parks foundation was put in back in October and once the snow melts the contractors will come back and finish the spray park.

 

Novo hopes to have the spray park operational in late June or early July of this year and they are planning to celebrate the grand opening of the park with a block party.

Monthly Mayor Reports for March

The monthly mayor reports for March have been released. The Town of The Pas had 153 disturbances of the peaces cases, 162 prisoners held, 128 mischief cases, 78 index checks and a handful of other offenses.

 

The RM of Kelsey once again had mostly provincial traffic violations a total of 28 and Cormorant had a total of 6 offenses all together.

Fire Destroys a Home at Valley View Trailer Park

The Pas Fire Department responded to a fire at Valley View trailer Park early yesterday morning. 

 

According to Fire Chief Randy Manych the page came in around 12:14 AM and upon arrival it was found that a home was on fire.

 

All attempts were made to contain the fire but the wind driven fire spread to the attic destroying the structure.

 

The residents were not home at the time and the cause of the fire has been deemed suspicious.

 

The investigation is ongoing.

MLA Amanda Latlhin Takes Part in an Autism Walk

As part of autism awareness month The Pas MLA Amanda Lathlin took part in an autism walk in Winnipeg last week.

 

Lathin spoke to Arctic Radio News and said it’s an annual walk that takes place on the legislative steps to inform the government to provide more funding for families that have children on the autism spectrum and for autism education systems.

 

This year’s autism walk was good and the two keynote speakers at the event were children on the autism spectrum that talked about how they live with autism.

 

Lathlin says there aren’t enough services for people with autism within our communities that are home based and believes that it would be practical and meaningful if the services were provided locally so that families won’t have to leave certain communities to access these services. Lathin acknowledged that there are some services but we can do better.

 

She encourages people that have children with autism to continue with advocacy, continue working with organizations that deal with families that have autistic children, and continue to ask politicians to advocate to ensure that funding for autism services are represented in the provincial budget.

Kelsey Bus Lines 2014 Renamed Mahihkan Bus Lines

Kelsey Bus Lines 2014 has officially been renamed as Mahihkan Bus Lines.

 

The company offers service between Flin Flon and Winnipeg with a stop in The Pas and plans are being made to provide passenger service from The Pas to Thompson.

 

It has not yet been determined when service from The Pas to Thompson will commence.

Amanda Lathlin Address Mental Health Crisis Among Northern Manitoba Youth

Last week, Amanda Lathlin Spoke in the Manitoba legislature and said that there is a mental health crisis happening among Northern Youth.

 

She said the crisis is linked to the higher rates of poverty and addictions in the North and indigenous youth are six times more likely to commit suicide than their peers and they stand a higher chance of dealing with substance abuse.

 

She added that there aren’t enough mental health resources available in the North and in order to see a psychiatrist Northern youth have to leave their home and travel hundreds of miles from their friends and families and most first nations communities don’t have mental health professionals.

 

Lathlin concluded her statement saying quote Northern Manitobans Deserve better and the government needs to step up and fund Northern mental health programming.

Manitoba Trappers Association Annual General Meeting and Convention

The Manitoba Trappers Associations annual general meeting and convention will be held at the Kikiwak Inn on April 12th and the 13th.

 

The April 12th portion of the event is open to the public and it will feature youth activities, trap sales, trapping demos, and trapping related displays and exhibits from 1PM to 10 PM.

 

You can find more information on the AGM and convention online at manitobatrappers.com or by calling 204-295-1512.

 

Photo from manitobatrappers.com

 

 

OCN Becomes First Cree Nation in Manitoba to Request Policing Services from Manitoba First Nations Police Service

With the communities’ safety and best interest in mind, Opaskwayak Cree Nation will be changing the way their members receive policing services. After much research and consideration a decision was made to move from the RCMP to the Manitoba First Nations Policing Service.

 

OCN Chief Christian Sinclair Says that 70 percent of officers within the force are first nations and they will have an understanding of the struggles of growing up in a colonial system which will make it easier for the community to put their trust in the force. He added that this is a win for our community and expects to see the impacts immediately.

 

The transition phase of the policing services is expected to take about six months.

MLA Amanda Lathlin Address the Cut Made to Child and Family Services New Comer Unit During Question Period

During Question Period in the Manitoba legislature earlier this week The Pas MLA Amanda Lathlin stated that Child and Families Services Newcomer Unit has been helping newcomer families since 2009 and it was an important resource to newcomers helping them to navigate their new life in Manitoba by integrating them into a new culture and connecting them with appropriate services and supports.

 

Lathlin said that it has become apparent that the minister has cut this important service and this was a shock to many within the newcomer community and the organizations that support them.

 

When Lathlin asked if the minister consulted with child family services authorities and newcomer organizations in the province prior to making the cut Minister of Families Heather Stefanson responded  by saying that they are very supportive of people who are moving to Manitoba and they are not making cuts to services for newcomers.

 

She added that that they will continue to work with stake holders to ensure that they do what is in the best interest of these families who are newcomers to Manitoba.

 

According to Lathlin, the Manitoba Association of Newcomer Serving Organizations of Winnipeg said they were concerned about this change and they are concerned that newcomer families won’t be supported very well.

Dump Fees Preventing Home Owners from Demolishing Damaged Houses

During The Town of The Pas’ committee of the whole meeting on March 25th an issue sheet was brought forward that said that residents were not able to afford dump fees for burned buildings in the community.

 

The Pas Mayor Herb Jaques spoke to Arctic Radio News to shed some light on the issue and said that some homes in The Pas have been severely damaged by fires and home owners have not been able to pay the dump fees thus preventing the buildings from being demolished.

 

Some neighbours have complained about the buildings sitting in the state that they are in and they want something done about it.

 

Jaques says the Town of The Pas would like something done about this issue as well because if these houses are demolished they could provide building lots for new houses.

 

To solve this problem, they divided council in into two groups. One group will examine changing the dump fee schedule, and the other group will examine why the fee schedule should stay as it is.

 

The two groups are expected to present their cases at a later date.  

Man from The Pas Wins St Boniface Mega Millions Choice Lottery Grand Prize UPDATED

A man from The Pas has won big. Jeffrey Kobelka has won the St Boniface Mega Million Choices Lottery Grand Prize. According to a statement from St Boniface Hospital Foundation he will have a choice of $1,100,000 Cash or one of six grand prize home packages.

 

Congratulations are going out to Mister Kobelka from all of us at Arctic Radio.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Town of The Pas 2019 Budget Hearing

The Town of The Pas will be having a public hearing for the 2019 budget next month. The hearing will be held in the council chambers of The Pas Municipal building at 6 in the evening on May 29th.

 

The budget is expected to be available for the public by May 24th and people will be able to review it at the municipal office before the public hearing.

New Exhibit at the Sam Waller Museum "Voices from the Engraver"

The Sam Waller Museum has a new temporary exhibit on display called “Voices from the Engraver” a traveling exhibition by The Bank of Canada Museum. 

 

Museum director Sharain Jones spoke to Arctic Radio News and said that the exhibit showcases the beauty and intricacy of Canadian Stamps and banknotes.

 

The exhibit will be on display from now until May 30th and the museum is open daily from 1 until 5 in the afternoon.

Niki Ashton Speaks Out on the Mistreatment of Indigenous Canadians By The Trudeau Government

Local NDP MP Niki Ashton spoke in the House of Commons recently and said that the Trudeau government has shown a profound disrespect towards indigenous peoples.

 

Ashton stated that Prime Minster Justin Trudeau has mocked protesters, turned his back on indigenous peoples that oppose pipelines, and fired one of the most prominent indigenous woman in Canada.

 

She added that colonialism is still alive and well in Canada and many indigenous people still live in third world conditions.

 

When Ashton asked why the Prime Minister continues to disrespect indigenous peoples, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded by saying that his government has been focused on partnerships with indigenous peoples from the very beginning.

 

They have been focused on moving forward in ways that respect and uplift indigenous peoples and communities and they have been doing that with hundreds of new school projects, better access to health care, and eliminating 82 long term boil water advisories.

 

He concluded by saying that they are working forward on the path to reconciliation.

Opaskwayak Cree Nation Chief Christian Sinclair Speaks at The First Nations National Land Governance and Economic Development Conference and Trade Show

Opaskwayak Cree Nation Chief Christian Sinclair conducted a presentation yesterday at The First Nations National Land Governance and Economic Development Conference and Trade Show in Winnipeg.

 

The presentation outlined the importance of economic development for OCN and he talked about some of the business ventures undertaken by the community including the three million dollar investment made to National Access Cannabis and the development of a legal cannabis dispensary on OCN.

 

According to the Lands Advisory Board and the First Nations Land Management Resources Centres Website the purpose of this conference is to show how First Nations peoples have been able to develop new economic development trends.

Niki Ashton Demands Action on Climate Change in Canada

During question period recently local MP Niki Ashton spoke about climate change in Canada in response to the news that Canada is warming faster than the rest of the world.

 

Ashton said the Liberal Government is defending Stephen Harpers climate targets and subsidizing the oil industry to the tune of billions of dollars and have spent 4.5 billion dollars to buy a pipeline.

 

Ashton asked when the government will take bold action to take on catastrophic climate change.

 

Liberal Minister of Environment and Climate Change Catherine McKenna concurred with Ashton that they need bold action to deal with climate change. She added that they have a climate plan with 50 measures where it is no longer free to pollute, and they are investing in renewables and clean solutions.

 

They are also ensuring energy efficiency measures so they can support businesses and other public places to save money so they can also take action on climate change. 

 

Autism Awareness Day in The Pas

April is World Autism Month and mayor Herb Jaques has proclaimed April the second as Autism Awareness Day in The Town of The Pas.

 

Autism is neurological disorder that affects the way a person learns and communicates but autism can also provide people with a gift, the gift of seeing the world in a new way.

 

A statement from the town said with public awareness, education, and acceptance people on the spectrum can reach their full potential.

 

There are many successful people on the autism spectrum including actor Dan Aykroyd from Ghostbusters, Daryl Hanna from the Kill Bill Movies, and Los Angeles Kings Prospect, Brad Morrison.

 

Many important historic figures were thought to be on the spectrum as well, including Albert Einstein, Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton, and Mozart.

The Public Invited to an Open Meeting on the Lobby Efforts to Complete Tote Road

An open meeting is being held in Nipawin, Saskatchewan on the lobby efforts to complete the Tote Road Corridor from Nipawin to The Pas and turn it into a safe primary weight highway.

 

According to the event invitation the tote road corridor was designed in the 1950s to only haul supplies to camps and its needs to be rebuilt for safety reasons.

 

The meeting will take place on April 8th at 11AM at the Generations Event Centre.

 

For more information call or text 306-401-7392

Norway House RCMP Investigating a Homicide

The Norway House RCMP is investigating a homicide. On the afternoon of March 30th officers were called to a residence in Norway House in response to a report of a disturbance.

 

The officers came across a 54 year old man who was in medical distress, the victim was sent to the nursing station where he succumbed to his injuries.

 

The RCMP has arrested 27 year old Dakota Walker from Norway House and they charged him with manslaughter in relation to the incident.

 

The investigation is ongoing.

Vision Quest Conference and Trade Show in Winnipeg

The Vision Quest Conference and Trade Show will be held in Winnipeg at the RBC Convention Centre next month.

 

Vision Quest Conferences is a charitable organization formed through the partnership with the provinces five Indigenous Community Futures Development Corporations that helps to promote business, community and economic development for indigenous peoples with the help of business leaders, entrepreneurs, and other positive role models.

 

This year former Inuit NHL player Jordan Tootoo and Actor and director Lorne Cardinal will be keynote speakers at the conference.

 

The Conference will run from May 14th until the 16th and you can register for the conference online at vqconference.com for 535 dollars. If you sign up before April 8th you will get a 100 dollar discount.

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