With the August long weekend seeing many people heading out to go camping, swimming, or participating in community events, the RCMP has safety tips for everyone to keep in mind.

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Expect increased police presence and traffic enforcement. Follow posted speed limits. Drivers may be required to provide a roadside breath sample during traffic or check stops. Refusal can result in a criminal charge or driving sanctions. Alcohol and cannabis must be stored out of the driver’s reach. If you plan to consume alcohol or cannabis, arrange a safe ride. Check the weather forecast before you go.

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RCMP say these safety reminders will help everyone have a safe and enjoyable August long weekend.

Opaskwayak Indigenous Days will be holding a children's fair on Saturday, August 15th. Kids can enjoy a mobile zipline, climbing wall, swing ride and bouncy castles.

 The Fair will also feature 2 magicians, illusionist and comedy magician Brian Glow and Metis magician Chanelle Monroe. Chanelle will be performing from noon until 2:00 PM, and Brian will be performing from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. 

The children’s fair will run from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the OCN Veterans Hall. Admission is free, and free snacks will be available at the fair as well.

There is an upcoming opportunity for nature-lovers during a weekend retreat getaway. On August 7th-9th, the Aurora Summer Ecotourism Retreat- Night On The Land will be held in Cranberry Portage. Giving participants the chance to connect with the land and experience the magic of nature.

The retreat includes a guided canoe adventure, ethical foraging and wild plant teachings, outdoor cooking over the fire, an overnight wilderness camp experience, fishing, swimming, and wilderness yoga and mindfulness. The retreat offers the chance to wind down and enjoy a slower-paced few days in nature, while learning new skills.

The fee to register is $300. To register, go to www.aurorasacredhealing.net. For more information on the retreat, call 204-620-2149.

The Pas RCMP say a woman is safe after a large emergency response Wednesday afternoon.

Just before 3 p.m. on July 29th, officers were called to the Bignell Bridge following reports that a woman had entered the water.

The incident prompted a coordinated search involving RCMP, The Pas Fire Department, EMS, Manitoba First Nations Police Service, and First Nation Safety Officers.

Police say the woman was later found safe. The Pas RCMP are thanking all emergency responders and partner agencies for their quick response and teamwork during the incident.

The Cranberry Portage Challenge is fast approaching.

This is the second year of the canoe event taking place from Cranberry through Lake Athapap.

The event looks to display the history and traditions of the portage. Dolly Charlotte, Kids Event Coordinator for the challenge, shares on the event.

Following the paddle and portage, the event will wrap up with a tea boiling on the banks of Lake Athapap.

There are both youth and adult divisions; the deadline to register is August first and the event will take place in Cranberry on August 3^rd with races starting at 10 am. Register at cranberryportagewinterfest.com

The Manitoba government is launching an independent review of the province's Child and Family Services funding and governance system.

Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine says the review will strengthen the child welfare system, improve transparency and better support children, youth and families.

The current funding model was introduced in 2019 and has never undergone a comprehensive review.

The province says it has added more than $77 million in annual funding to Child and Family Services since 2023 to address growing pressures.

An external consulting firm will examine funding, financial oversight and governance, while consulting with Child and Family Services agencies, Indigenous leaders and other partners.

The review is expected to begin later this year and take about 12 months to complete.

The Pas RCMP are crediting quick action for helping prevent injuries during an early morning house fire.

Police say officers responded to a report of a residential fire on Bell Avenue just before 3 a.m. on July 26. When they arrived, they found an attached garage engulfed in flames, with heavy smoke pouring from the building.

Officers woke the 56-year-old homeowner, who told them several pets were still inside. RCMP members safely removed all of the animals before firefighters arrived and brought the blaze under control.

No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire has not been released.

The Pas Community Renewal Corporation has announced the cancellation of its annual Street Festival for 2026.

The organization says the popular event, which was set to mark its 17th year, is being cancelled because it was unable to secure the funding needed to host the festival. Organizers also say the event requires a large staff to operate, and many volunteers and staff members are currently on leave.

The Renewal Corporation says no other organization will be taking over the festival, noting it remains a TPCRC economic development initiative.

Despite this year's cancellation, organizers say planning is already underway to bring the Street Festival back in 2027. Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact Interim Executive Director Holly LaJambe through the Pas Community Renewal Corporation.

Residents of The Pas, Opaskwayak Cree Nation, and Flin Flon are invited to take part in a World Hepatitis Day community outreach event today.

In The Pas and OCN, the event runs from 11 am until 3 pm and includes education, immunization information, outreach testing, games and a free community barbecue. It will take place at the GLMC

Hepatitis C is spread through blood-to-blood contact, but many people don't know they're infected because symptoms may not appear for years. That's why early testing is so important. Detecting hepatitis early allows people to access treatment sooner, reducing the risk of serious liver disease and helping prevent transmission to others.

Health officials encourage everyone to learn the risks, ask questions, and take advantage of the free resources available during the event.

The event in Flin Flon in support of awareness and World Hepatitis Day will take place at the primary health center from Noon to 1:30.

A 75% majority vote elected Jennifer Flett as NDP MLA for the Pas-Kammesak region in the July 21st byelection. Here, Jennifer talks about the results of the byelection and stepping into her new role.

Jennifer notes the need for improved healthcare in northern communities and says she wants to focus on Infrastructure, including the roads on highways 6, 10, and 60, to promote safety when travelling. Issues around economic development and local entrepreneurship are a priority as well.

For more information on Jennifer Flett, visit mbndp.ca.

Manitoba RCMP are reminding motorists to slow down after two traffic stops near The Pas resulted in fines and charges.

North District Traffic Services officers were conducting patrols around the community on July 22nd when they stopped two vehicles travelling at excessive speeds.

Just after 6 p.m., officers clocked a vehicle travelling 126 kilometres an hour in a 100-kilometre zone on Highway 283 near Marlow Road.

The 67-year-old Flin Flon man provided a breath sample, blew a warning, and admitted to consuming alcohol. He was issued an Immediate Roadside Prohibition, had his driver’s licence suspended, and his vehicle was towed. He was also fined 391 dollars for speeding.

About an hour later, the same officer stopped another vehicle on Ralls Island Road after it was recorded travelling 107 kilometres an hour in a 70 zone.

The 32-year-old Ralls Island woman was unable to provide a driver’s licence, and officers also found a child in the vehicle who was not secured in a car seat.

She was issued fines totalling 838 dollars under the Highway Traffic Act.

RCMP are reminding drivers that speeding and unsafe driving put everyone on the road at risk.

The Town of The Pas is encouraging residents with a passion for their community to consider running for municipal office.

The next municipal election is set for October 28th, when voters will choose a mayor and town councillors for the next four years.

Candidate registration is now open, and anyone interested in putting their name forward must complete the registration process before September 22nd.

Municipal leaders play an important role in shaping decisions on issues like community safety, infrastructure, recreation, economic development, and municipal services.

The Town says a strong election starts with community members stepping forward to help guide the future of The Pas.

Residents interested in becoming a candidate can contact the Town of The Pas for more information on the registration process.

Women across the North will have local access to breast cancer screening services this summer.

CancerCare Manitoba’s BreastCheck mobile screening clinic will be making stops in both Flin Flon and The Pas.

The clinic will be in Flin Flon from now to August 7th at the Flin Flon Primary Health Care Centre on North Avenue.

It will then travel to The Pas from August 10th to the 27th, offering appointments at The Pas Health Complex.

Women between the ages of 45 and 74 can book a screening appointment by calling 1-855-952-4325.

Health officials say regular mammograms are important because they can detect breast cancer early, sometimes before symptoms appear, improving treatment options and outcomes.

The Pas Kameesak has a new Member of the Legislative Assembly; Jennifer Flett won the seat in yesterday’s election with a landslide victory.

The riding has had a long-standing NDP stronghold, and yesterday's election results reflected that when Flett won with 75% of the vote coming in favour of the NDP.

Former MLA Amanda Lathlin held the seat for over a decade before her passing back in March.

Flett captured 2,635 votes, PC candidate Edna Nabess had 616 votes, Liberal Candidate Dan Quesnel took in 165 votes, and Wally Daudrich of the Keystone Party finished last with 105 votes.

There was over a 35% voter turnout in the constituency.

The NDP currently hold 34 seats in the Manitoba Legislature.

Two community co-operative projects in the Tri-Community area are looking to build services aimed at supporting local families and seniors.

The Northern Lights Seniors’ Non-Profit Housing Co-op has secured 26,500 dollars in seed funding from the Moffat Family Fund, the RM of Kelsey, and the Tri-Community Foundation to help move a proposed seniors’ housing development forward.

Meanwhile, the Three Rivers Childcare Co-op says it is just two people away from officially incorporating as a non-profit co-operative.

The group is looking to fill two board positions, Vice-Chair and Secretary-Treasurer, before it can complete its legal paperwork, apply for major capital grants, and begin securing a location for a 24/7, licensed childcare facility in the Tri-Community area.

The roles are open to anyone willing to help support local families, economic growth, and shift workers, with guidance provided.

The group is also asking residents to complete its childcare needs survey, saying community data will help demonstrate demand and unlock future funding opportunities.

The Town of The Pas is receiving nearly 48-thousand dollars through the Manitoba Criminal Forfeiture Fund to support community safety efforts.

The funding was announced during a formal awards ceremony held June 18th at The Pas RCMP Detachment.

The grant will be used to purchase video equipment designed to enhance safety in high-risk areas throughout the community.

The request for funding was developed through consultations between the Town’s Community Safety Officer Management, Mayor and Council, and the Chief Administrative Officer.

The Manitoba Criminal Forfeiture Fund uses proceeds from the sale of forfeited property to support crime prevention initiatives, law enforcement training, and community-based programs.

The Town of The Pas says the equipment will help support ongoing efforts to improve safety and well-being for residents and visitors.

Voters across The Pas-Kameesak head to the polls today to elect a new representative at the Manitoba Legislature.

The by-election was called after the passing of longtime NDP MLA Amanda Lathlin earlier this year. Four candidates are running for the seat: Jennifer Flett for the NDP, Edna Nabess for the Progressive Conservatives, Dan Quesnel for the Manitoba Liberals, and Wally Daudrich for the Keystone Party.

The riding includes The Pas, Opaskwayak Cree Nation, Grand Rapids, Peguis and several surrounding communities. Polls will be open today from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. Voters are reminded to bring accepted identification before casting their ballot.

Polling stations in The Pas will be set up at 273 Fisher Avenue. A full list of polling stations across the province is available at electionsmanitoba.ca.

Election results should be available late in the evening.

Sandy Bay First Nation released a statement Saturday, saying thoughts and prayers are with Amanda Nobiss’s family, friends, colleagues, and everyone affected by the tragedy.

Police say the woman was found deceased early July 17 after travelling to Sandy Bay First Nation on behalf of a non-profit animal rescue organization. The circumstances surrounding her death remain under investigation by the Manitoba First Nations Police Service.

Sandy Bay Chief and Council say the community has been dealing with ongoing concerns involving stray and aggressive dogs, and has been working on safe and humane solutions to address the issue.

The First Nation says outside organizations and individuals have been advised that independent animal retrieval activities are not authorized without approval from the community and oversight from police or First Nations security officers.

Chief and Council are asking the public not to speculate or assign blame while the investigation continues. They say the community remains committed to finding long-term solutions that protect both residents and animals.

Thompson RCMP used drones and extra police resources to track down a suspect who fled into the bush after a traffic stop Last Thursday afternoon.

Around 2:30 p.m., officers spotted a speeding vehicle on Highway 391 and attempted to pull it over. The driver instead turned onto a gravel road, where the vehicle stopped at a dead end with five people inside.

Police say one man tossed a can of bear spray into a ditch before another suspect ran into dense bush. RCMP Police Dog Services and multiple drones were deployed to search the area.

About six hours later, a drone operator spotted the 21-year-old Thompson man hiding in a ditch along Highway 391. He was arrested without incident. Officers also found two full cans of bear spray in the vehicle.

Four males from Nelson House, including a 15-year-old youth, were charged with possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and released. The Thompson man faces several charges, including flight from police, dangerous driving, resisting arrest and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

Police say officers responded to a commercial alarm on the 1400 block of Main Street just before 5 a.m. on July 13. Investigators say two suspects arrived in a stolen orange Kubota UTV, smashed a window, and used the vehicle to pull open the business's front door. They then attached a strap to an ATM, dragged it outside, and fled the scene with it.

The UTV had been reported stolen the night before from another business on Main Street. It's described as a 2012 Kubota RTV 900XT with Alberta licence plate UTZ62.

One suspect was wearing a black hooded sweater with a white Reebok logo, along with a face covering and gloves. The second suspect wore a full-face ATV helmet marked with what appears to be a "V" or "VH."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dauphin RCMP.

Tomorrow, voters cast their votes to elect a new MLA in The Pas-Kammesak, in the provincial byelection. Amanda Lathlin passed in March, leaving the MLA seat empty. 

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. Voting is open on Tuesday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM at any polling place in The Pas-Kammesak. To see a list of locations, go to electionsmanitoba.ca.

God's Lake RCMP have laid multiple charges after responding to reports of shots fired earlier this month.

Police say officers were called to the south side of God’s Lake Narrows on July 7th at around 3:30 p.m. Anishinaabe Peacekeepers reported seeing a man and woman leaving the area on a green ATV. RCMP quickly located the pair and searched the vehicle, finding two firearms hidden in a guitar case, along with ammunition, a knife and a small amount of methamphetamine.

A 30-year-old woman and 28-year-old Brett White, both from God’s Lake Narrows, were arrested. White was also allegedly prohibited from possessing firearms at the time.

Both initially faced several firearms-related charges and were released on undertakings. However, RCMP say White was arrested again on July 9th after allegedly breaching his court-ordered conditions. He now faces eight additional charges and has been remanded into custody.

The Pas Community Renewal Corporation just launched its small grants fund, providing funding for community events and capacity training. Holly Lejambe, the Interim Executive Director with TPCRC, explains how the grant process works.

Additional programming includes a drop-in makers circle on Wednesdays from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. A hemming workshop will take place next week. Holly adds that programming suggestions are welcome by calling 204-623-4269. All programming can be found on tpcrc.ca.

The Pas Community Renewal Corporation is asking for public input. TPCRC is in the process of developing its new strategic plan, which dictates the direction of the organization for the next five years. Holly Lejambe, the Interim Executive Director with TPCRC, explains.

Holly encourages other organizations, community groups, and individuals to take part in the survey. The results of the survey will impact future programming. To complete the survey, go to tpcrc.ca.

The Town of The Pas is applying for provincial funding to improve accessibility at the Civic Centre.

Council is considering an application to the Build Communities Strong Fund – Local Impact Stream to help fund 250 thousand dollars in upgrades to the building's front entrance. The project is designed to improve access for residents and visitors while helping the Town meet accessibility standards.

The Town has already budgeted 137 thousand 500 dollars for the work, but would need to contribute an additional 12 thousand 500 dollars if the grant application is successful and the full project moves ahead.

Administration is recommending council approve the grant application and provide a letter of support to strengthen the Town's funding request.

Time is running out to register for this year's Clearwater Lake Half Marathon.

Today is the final day for online registration ahead of the annual race this Sunday, July 19th, at Clearwater Lake, about 30 kilometres north of The Pas.

Participants can choose from a certified 21-kilometre half marathon or 10K, 5K, 3K and 1K events, making it accessible for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities.

Whether you're chasing a personal best or simply looking to enjoy one of Manitoba's most scenic race courses, they hope to see you at the starting line along the beautiful shores of Clearwater Lake.

Oxford House RCMP have seized an estimated $75,000 worth of illicit drugs following an arrest at the community airport.

On July 13th, they received information from Bunibonibee Cree Nation First Nation Safety Officers that passengers on an incoming flight may be carrying illegal drugs.

Officers boarded the aircraft before passengers got off and removed two women for questioning.

Investigators say a 23-year-old woman from Bunibonibee Cree Nation was found concealing cocaine and crack cocaine.

She has been charged with two counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking and remains in custody until her court appearance. No one else has been charged, and the investigation continues.

The Town of The Pas is seeking more than 1.6 million dollars in provincial funding to help upgrade Centennial Park and nearby recreation facilities.

Council is supporting an application to the Build Communities Strong Fund – Direct Delivery Stream for a project valued at just over 3.2 million dollars. The proposed improvements would enhance accessibility, expand recreation programming, and improve the overall user experience while supporting community health and wellness.

The Town has already secured a 1.375 million dollar Guaranteed Recreation Opportunities Grant. If the latest application is approved, outside funding would cover nearly 93 percent of the project's cost, leaving the Town responsible for about 233 thousand dollars.

Administration is recommending council move forward with the grant application and commit to the Town's share if funding is approved.

A fire at a 20-unit apartment building in Peguis First Nation has left residents displaced, but no one was hurt.

Fisher Branch RCMP say they were called just before 7:30 Saturday morning after receiving reports the building was on fire.

Officers forced open the main floor doors to ensure everyone had safely evacuated.

Police have confirmed there were no injuries or fatalities. The fire is believed to be accidental.

The Office of the Fire Commissioner has been called in, and Fisher Branch RCMP continue to assist with the investigation.

A community gathering in support of cancer awareness, celebrating Stanley Constants 5 year cancer free anniversary, is set for tomorrow at the Gordon Lathlin Memorial Centre from 11 until 2.

The event will begin with a moment of silence and a blessing of the food at 11 o'clock, honouring those lost to cancer, celebrating survivors and supporting those still fighting.

A free community feast will feature a wide variety of homemade dishes, including a special table for elders with traditional wild game and fish.

Free prize draws begin at 12:15, with a one-thousand-dollar grand prize drawn at 12:30. The winner of the grand prize does not need to be present.

The afternoon will also include a bouncy house for children and a balloon release, symbolizing hope and remembering everyone whose lives have been touched by cancer.

The Pas Friendship Centre is partnering with the Canadian Mental Health Association to offer a series of free mental health workshops this month.

The three online sessions cover Understanding Emotional Triggers tomorrow, Understanding Anxiety on July 21st, and Foundations of Self-Care on July 23rd.

Each workshop runs from 1:30 to 3 p.m. through Zoom, with the option to attend in person at The Pas Friendship Centre.

Organizers say the sessions are designed to help participants better understand their emotions, build practical coping strategies, and improve their overall mental well-being.

Preregistration is encouraged, but walk-ins are also welcome. For more information or to register, contact The Pas Friendship Centre.

The Pas OCN Chamber of Commerce is hosting a panel where voters can meet the MLA candidates in the upcoming byelection. Participants will have the opportunity to have conversations with the candidates and ask questions. This will allow voters to meet those running and learn what they have in mind for the community.

Abdulmalik, with The Pas OCN Chamber of Commerce, discusses the purpose of the panel here.

The panel will take place this Thursday, July 16th, online, live on Zoom, Facebook, and YouTube from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. To join the Zoom meeting, go to The Pas OCN Chamber Of Commerce Facebook page, where the QR code is posted.

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.

102.9 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.