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The Portage la Prairie RCMP are investigating a fatal two-car collision on Highway 1, in the RM of North Norfolk.

Around 9:45 yesterday morning, police responded to a two-vehicle collision on the Trans-Canada highway, at the intersection of Road 64 West. It was determined that a vehicle traveling south on Road 64 West collided with a vehicle going east on Highway 1.

The driver and lone occupant of the southbound vehicle, a 43-year-old woman from the RM of North Norfolk was pronounced deceased on the scene. The driver and lone occupant of the eastbound vehicle, a 20-year-old female from the RM was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Portage la Prairie RCMP along with a Forensic Collision Reconstructionist, continue to investigate.

Details

Manitoba has sent a group of firefighters to Alberta to help fight the wildfires that rage on throughout the province, but the provincial government is keeping a close eye on the situation here at home as well.

Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt says that to date, there have been 16 wildfires in the province as of yesterday. He says it's important for Manitobans to do their part in limiting fires as much as possible.

"Many Manitobans are looking forward to the start of camping and fishing season in the coming days and we all must remember to do our part to prevent wildfires whether we’re at home, at the cottage, or enjoying the backcountry."

All 16 wildfires this year have been caused by humans and none are a concern at this time. Nesbitt says that one tanker group is currently activated in Manitoba, and another is on standby.

This week is recognized as emergency preparedness week and Nesbit says there are some easy ways to reduce wildfire risks.

Campfires:

  • If it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave.

Backyard debris burning:

  • Don’t burn when it is windy or when vegetation is very dry.
  • Check local regulations, a permit may be required.
  • Choose a safe burning site away from power lines, overhanging limbs, buildings, vehicles, and equipment.
  • Burning sites should be surrounded by gravel or mineral soil at least 10 feet in all directions.
  • Keep the surroundings watered down during the burn and have a shovel close by.
  • Keep debris piles small and manageable, add additional debris as the fire burns down.
  • Make sure burning barrels are made entirely of metal, properly equipped (at least three evenly-spaced, three-inch, screened vents and top metal screen), and in good condition.
  • Stay with the fire until it is completely out. Drown the fire with water, turn over the ashes with a shovel, and drown it again, repeat several times.
  • Check the burn area regularly over the next several days and up to several weeks following the burn, especially if the weather is warm, dry, and windy.

Vehicle safety:

  • Be sure chains and other metal parts are not dragging from the vehicle, as they can create sparks.
  • Check the vehicle’s tire pressure. Driving on an exposed wheel rim can cause sparks.
  • Be careful driving through or parking on dry grass or brush. Hot exhaust pipes can cause grass fires.
  • Never let brake pads wear thin. Metal on metal creates sparks.

Lawn care:

  • Sparks from lawnmowers and power equipment can start wildfires. Be careful on hot, dry days, and be sure to check equipment regularly.

Taking care of your home:

  • Keep roofs, gutters, decks, and patios clear of leaves, pine needs, or other flammables at all times.
  • Remove flammable mulch and vegetation 1.5m from homes and replace it with non-flammable material.
  • A mowed lawn is a fire-resistant lawn. Grasses shorter than 10cm in height are less likely to burn intensely.

To report a wildfire, call 911 or the toll-free TIP line at 1-800-782-0076.

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A massive mural will be making an appearance on the Main Street side of the Dauphin Public Library this summer.

Local Artist Patrick Paul presented his work for this project earlier this week, and the final result is both massive and magnificent.

The design, done in the Woodland art style will span a total of five aluminum canvases, each measuring four-by-eight feet. Paul says it will feature a combination of rich Indigenous culture and a diverse representation of local fish, fowl, and more. 

"There's local species, the turtle, and even the fur-trading animals. It's a very big part of Dauphin's history. It took 285 years for Ojibwe art to thrive in this town. I've been working at it for 2 years, and I can proudly say that Ojibwe art is thriving in Dauphin now."

Paul's journey into the arts is a relatively new one, but he says it was a crucial step in finding his spirituality and a healthier path in life.

"When I first started, I didn't know why I picked up the pencil, crayon, and some paper. but two years into doing my art, I've finally realized that I needed deep spiritual healing. It seems to be for a great reason because time after time it's proving to me that I'm making a change with my art, with my own life, and for my community most importantly."

The final prints are tentatively scheduled to arrive in June, but depending on the print shop's schedule, could be later in the summer.

The library also announced its next step, which is to raise funds for a lighting system, so this local artist's work can shine brightly any time of day, at any time of the year.

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Update #5 posted on May 10th at 9:05 pm:

Environment Canada has ended all weather warnings and watches in the Parkland and western Manitoba.

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Update #4 posted on May 10th at 6:36 pm: 

Environment Canada has cleared the Dauphin area of the severe thunderstorm watch, as the weather system continues to progress to the southeast. 

A chance of more rain and thunderstorms still exists for the Parkland area this evening, but it seems the worst of the storm has passed.

Environment Canada still has a large area under watches and warnings, and you can track that system through their website.

Update #3 posted on May 10 at 4:35 pm:

Environment Canada has downgraded the severe thunderstorm warning, back to a severe thunderstorm watch. The thunderstorms developed this afternoon and are expected to continue into the late evening hours.

Reports of hail up to 5 cm have been made. Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches.

Find all of Environment Canada's public weather alerts here.

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Update #2 posted on May 10 at 3:40 pm:

Environment Canada has upgraded the extreme thunderstorm watch to a warning for the RM of Dauphin including Sifton and Valley River, as well as Gilbert Plains Municipality including Ashville.

Environment Canada meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm capable of producing very strong wind gusts, up to toonie size hail, and heavy rain. This thunderstorm is tracking east at 30 km/h toward Ashville and Dauphin.

Find all of Environment Canada's public weather alerts here.

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Update #1 posted on May 10 at 3:23 pm:

Environment Canada has issued a Tornado Warning for part of the Parkland. Right now, the warning is in effect for the R.M. of Ellice-Archie including St-Lazare McAuley and Manson, as well as Prairie View Mun. including Birdtail Res.

Meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm that could possibly produce a tornado. Damaging winds, large hail, and locally intense rainfall are also possible.

As the storm pushes west, it is likely the warnings will continue to expand.

A severe thunderstorm watch is still in effect for the rest of the Parkland and most of southwestern Manitoba, including:

  • Dauphin - Russell - Roblin - Winnipegosis
  • Ste. Rose - McCreary - Alonsa - Gladstone
  • Swan River - Duck Mountain - Porcupine Provincial Forest
  • Minnedosa - Riding Mountain National Park
  • Brandon - Neepawa - Carberry - Treherne
  • Killarney - Pilot Mound - Manitou
  • Virden - Souris

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Original Article posted on May 10 at 2:29 pm:

There is a severe thunderstorm watch in effect for the entire Parkland right now, as well as a severe thunderstorm warning in effect for the RM of Mountain including Cowan and Camperville.

The warning stretches over most of southwestern Manitoba and into southeastern Saskatchewan. Environment Canada says that conditions are favorable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms, which are expected to develop this afternoon.

Thunderstorms may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, damaging hail, and heavy rain. The following areas in Manitoba are affected by the watch:

  • Dauphin - Russell - Roblin - Winnipegosis
  • Ste. Rose - McCreary - Alonsa - Gladstone
  • Swan River - Duck Mountain - Porcupine Provincial Forest
  • Minnedosa - Riding Mountain National Park
  • Brandon - Neepawa - Carberry - Treherne
  • Killarney - Pilot Mound - Manitou
  • Virden - Souris
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The federal government has announced some changes that will be made to the Canadian Passport, including the ability to renew passports online.

The announcement was made by Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, and Karina Gould, Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development this morning.

Starting this fall, the government of Canada will be offering Canadians more online options for passport services. This includes the ability to renew passports, pay fees, and upload photographs securely and conveniently online.

The passport itself will include new state-of-the-art security features, like a polycarbonate data page, which is a similar technology to what is used in driver's licenses. The data on that page will now be laser engraved, instead of printed, making it more durable and resistant to tampering.

Passport Data PageNew Passport Data Page via www.canada.ca

The new passports will also feature artwork celebrating Canada's natural beauty throughout all four seasons says Minister Fraser in a press release.

"The new Canadian passport is more than a travel document; it is a representation of our national identity and values. It is a reminder of the beauty and diversity of Canada, and it reflects the country's commitment to welcoming people from all around the world."

Visa pages in the new passports will have seasonal art that changes under ultraviolet light, which adds to the art and is an enhanced security feature.

Passport Visa PagesSample New Passport Visa Pages via www.canada.ca

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A plan for Dauphin's growth was laid out yesterday at the State Of the City.

Over lunch, both the City of Dauphin and The Parkland Chamber Of Commerce made presentations on how they're planning to guide the city's expansion.

Stephen Chychota of the Chamber highlighted the Dauphin and District Community Foundation, which contributed nearly $75,000 to local organizations, including The Almost New store, Dauphin & District Handi-van, the Food for Thought Program, and several recreational facilities.

Mayor David Bosiak spoke on several key items that he believes are crucial to the growth of the city, and broke them down into 6 pillars:

  • Community & Innovation
  • Climate Action & Leadership
  • Housing & Neighborhoods
  • Truth & Reconciliation 
  • Public Health & Wellbeing 
  • And Local Tourism

Before diving into all of these points, Bosiak brought up the financial situation of the town coffers. 

He noted the city is in a perfect situation to make some big moves, as the financial reserves are well stocked, and the city's debt is nearly non-existent.

Bosiak was very thankful for the groundwork laid by his predecessors that will allow him and his council to make the big positive changes he's got planned.

"It's that combination of preparation, planning, and the ability to strike while the iron is hot, and I think we're there."

As the presentation progressed, Mayor Bosiak spoke on the new businesses in Dauphin that will begin ramping up, and how the Provincial Nominee Program will help.

"The interesting challenge that we have is we don't have a large industry like Steinbach or Winkler, that needs 50 of a certain kind of worker. We've had to take a more strategic approach and work with the farmer that needs 1 or 2 workers, or other industries that need the 1 or 2 specific skill sets."

There were a lot of talks focused on developing infrastructure, both in new housing developments and ecologically friendly means to power them. Developments in low-income housing have already made 3 domiciles for people to live in, and the Dauphin and District Community Foundation is looking to keep making that number rise.

The importance of community was not understated, as Bosiak also spoke on the importance of developing the city's relationships with its neighbors in the Parkland area. He referenced the recent land signing between Dauphin, Ebb And Flow, and Pinecreek as a prime example of steps towards strengthening these bonds. 

Tourism was another hot topic, as the many festivals in the area create a lot of revenue for the town. There was discussion on expanding outside of these festivals, and Bosiak presented a promotional video for Dauphin tourism entitled "Dauphin: Adventure From Here On Out". It showcased the many natural areas, trails, campsites, and experiences one can find around Dauphin and the area. 

The Address wrapped up on the themes of coming together as a community and making Dauphin a place that isn't just a place to live in, but a place to experience.

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Update #4: posted at 7:00 am on May 10th, 2023

Emergency Response Team officers, who were brought in to assist with the search for the escaped inmates, were conducting patrols in The Pas earlier this morning and located Kelly Castel near Halcrow Avenue. Castel fled on foot and additional police units including Police Dog Services, Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Unit (drone) and The Pas detachment members immediately responded to the area.

A police dog led officers to Castel who was hiding a short distance away. He was arrested and is now in custody.

The Manitoba RCMP recognizes that this was a difficult time for the affected communities and thanks the residents for their understanding and assistance.

Update #3: posted at 4:31 pm on May 9th, 2023

The RCMP has released further details about the search for escaped inmates near the Pas. Police are still searching for the third and final escaped inmate, Kelly Castel.

The full RCMP release is below:

The RCMP continues to investigate and remains committed to following up on any information received that may help locate Kelly Castel.

The RCMP is asking all residents in The Pas, Flin Flon and surrounding areas to stay vigilant, to check on their neighbours and to report anything suspicious to police. Motorists are reminded not to pick up any hitchhikers in the area.

In response to the three escaped inmates from The Pas Correctional Centre, the Manitoba RCMP deployed specialized police units and resources to The Pas, Flin Flon, and surrounding areas. This included the RCMP’s Emergency Response Team, Crime Reduction Enforcement Team, Police Dog Services, Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Unit (Drone), and Air Services. A number of officers from surrounding detachments were also deployed to the area to assist in the search.

In addition, the Saskatchewan RCMP increased its presence in Cumberland and adjoining areas near the Manitoba border as one suspect was known to have connections to the region.

This extensive response resulted in two of the three inmates being safely taken into custody.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Kelly Castel should immediately call The Pas RCMP at 204-627-6200 or their local police of jurisdiction.

Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Manitoba or Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

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Update #2: posted at 2:35 am on May 9th, 2023

Xander Tardiff has been located and arrested without incident.

RCMP is still searching for the remaining missing inmate Kelly Castel.

Anyone with information in relation to Kelly Castel is asked to contact The Pas RCMP at 204-627-6200.

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Update #1: posted at 5:00 am on May 9th, 2023

The Manitoba RCMP continues to search for the two inmates who escaped earlier this evening from the Correctional Centre located in The Pas.

The Manitoba RCMP has also issued an Alert Ready message to residents in The Pas, Flin Flon and surrounding areas. The Saskatchewan RCMP has issued a Sask Alert message to residents in Creighton, Saskatchewan, and nearby areas. The Alerts were issued as new information was received late on the evening of May 8, this included:

  • The possibility that Xander Tardiff may attempt to harm individuals known to him.
  • A report of an attempted break and enter into a residence in The Pas.

Both Xander Tardiff and Kelly Castel are considered dangerous and a risk to the public. The Manitoba RCMP is advising residents in The Pas and Flin Flon to lock all doors and windows and to report anything suspicious to the RCMP immediately.

More info and pictures of suspects here:https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/news/2023/the-pas-rcmp-searching-two-escaped-inmates. If you have any information that can assist this investigation, you’re asked to contact The Pas RCMP at 204-627-6200.

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Original story below:

On Monday, May 8, 2023, at 6:45 pm, the RCMP received a report of three missing inmates from The Pas Correctional Centre, located on 3 Street East, in The Pas. Officers attended and were advised that the three inmates were last seen at 6:40 pm and escaped from the Correctional Centre moments later. The inmates fled the area on foot.

A number of additional police resources were immediately deployed, including Police Dog Services, to assist with the search. At 8:05pm, one of the escaped inmates was located and safely taken into custody.

The Pas and surrounding communities can expect an increased police presence as well as roadblocks in the area as the search continues. RCMP are requesting the public’s assistance in locating the following escaped inmates:

  • Xander William Tardiff, 19, is 5’11”, and weighs 180 lbs.
  • Kelly John Castel, 21, is 5’09”, and weighs 135 lbs.

Both have a history of violence and should not be approached. If you’ve seen them or have any information on their current whereabouts, please call The Pas RCMP immediately at 204-627-6200. The Pas RCMP continue to investigate.

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The National Public Alerting System, Alert Ready, has an emergency alert test scheduled for Wednesday, May 10th, at 1:55 pm.

The test alert will go out on radio, TV, and compatible wireless devices across the province. Not all mobile devices will get the alert due to device compatibility, connection to an LTE network, cell tower coverage, and device software and settings.

Alert Ready is the National Public Alerting System, which is used for anything from Amber Alerts to Natural Disaster Warnings. The test is to ensure the system is working properly and identify any areas that need improvement.

More information on the Alert Ready system, including what phones are compatible, can be found here.

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A 52-year-old woman had to be air-lifted to the hospital after she was attacked by several dogs on Peguis First Nation.

Fisher Branch RCMP responded to a report of an injured female at a residence in the community, around 12:25 am on Sunday, May 7th.

Officers were told that the female was walking on Peguis First Nation when she was attacked. She was able to get to a nearby residence for help but had already suffered serious injuries.

The RCMP say they have been informed by Peguis First Nation Chief and Council that the dogs thought to be responsible have been killed.

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Dauphin Rec Services(DRS) are getting a financial boost for the construction of Maamawi Park.

Fusion Credit Union gave DRS $40,000 dollars as part of its Full Circle Grant program. DRS Assistant GM Lindsey Kyle says Fusion is an incredible organization, as they always give back to the community.

"They continuously give to community projects. There isn't much that comes to my mind that Fusion hasn't sponsored, or hasn't given to, or contributed funds, or volunteer efforts, that sort of thing."

Kyle says the money will go towards the construction of phase one of the park, which is an accessible toboggan hill says

"With that snowfall, we got in late April, it kind of delayed things a bit, so we are just kind of doing the site prep now, and the actual toboggan hill, the construction, will begin into the summer."

She says they hope that the toboggan hill will be done by the end of the fall, so it's usable this summer.

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As of Monday (May 8th) morning, the Municipality of Roblin is under a burn ban.

All open fires, whether rural or urban, are currently not allowed. There is an exception for personal BBQs and stoves. If you have a covered personal fire pit, they can be used between the hours of 8 pm to 8 am.

The ban will stay in effect until further notice.

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