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The Dauphin RIDE program is back this weekend.
The program will run from 9:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. It's the season to celebrate, but it's never the time to get behind the wheel impaired.
Sarah Shuttleworth says the crew is ready to go.
"We're feeling pretty good. We've been very fortunate because many people have reached out to volunteer," said Shuttleworth. "We're really looking forward to seeing some new faces and getting the ball rolling."
Reducing Impaired Driving Everywhere. It's not just a slogan for the Dauphin RIDE program; it's everything. Sarah's grandfather and some of his friends founded the program in 1992. They wanted something in the community that individuals could rely on during the holiday season.
Statistics show that people drink more during the holiday season, and when you do, the RIDE program will be here.
"It's kind of become a family thing since then. My mom took over and now I'm at the age where I'm sort of taking over," continued Shuttleworth. "We've seen over the years that the community really utilizes the program, it's very much needed. We want to keep it going as long as we can. It's a great community-focused program. We want to make sure everyone gets home safely."
How does it work? That's easy. If you're out somewhere with your vehicle and have had some drinks, you can call the RIDE program. They will pick you and your vehicle and take you back home. The number is 638-5707.
If you don't have your vehicle with you, you can't use the RIDE program. You, instead, should call a taxi or arrange for someone to pick you up.
While the program primarily services those in Dauphin, it has ventured outside the city in the past.
"We've gone to Gilbert Plains, Grandview, Winnipegosis, and Ste. Rose," added Shuttleworth. "It honestly depends how busy we are that night and how many volunteers we have. We try to make sure that anyone who calls, we can accomodate them in some way."
There is no charge to use the Dauphin RIDE program. However, tips are welcome. A tip is far less than what you will pay if you decide to drive impaired and get caught.
"Because we are a non-profit program, all the tips go towards the program," ended Shuttleworth. "We use that money to help cover volunteers gas and other fees. We like to feed our volunteers, so money goes to that as well."
The RIDE program also operates on Saturday and New Year's Eve. The number is 638-5707.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Dillan Houle was born and raised on the Ebb & Flow First Nation.
When he graduated from high school in the community, he wasn't ready to go anywhere, but he needed to find a job. So he applied to the Elementary School and got a job as an educational assistant.
He's now in his second year in the position and is thriving. Taking life day by day, Houle said it's great to be able to help support the younger generation while they navigate the school system.
"I've opened myself up to working at the school," said Houle. "I've learned new skills. You learn something new every day working here. It's been fantastic, I've really enjoyed it."
During a Halloween get-together at the school this year, everything took a turn. A fourth-grade student went to get some nachos and cheese. One of the chips got wedged in the student's mouth, and that student began to choke.
When Dillan was 12, he took his first aid and CPR course with the Cadet program. Little did he know that his training would be the reason the student is still alive today. Without hesitation, Houle performed the Heimlich maneuver on the student, who stopped choking.
On that day, Dillan became a lifesaver.
"I think the emotions really set in lately after getting a gift from the school," continued Houle. "We went on a retreat to Winnipeg recently, and everyone gave me a round of applause. That was awesome, such a great feeling."
The gift was a pair of Gauntlet Gloves, handmade by Linda Fariss.
Houle wears the gloves with great pride and is very appreciative to have received them.
"It's really, really awesome," added Houle. "I am very humbled to have received a gift like that."
Dillan says he chose to stay in his home community because of the people.
"I know everybody, and everyone knows everyone in the community," ended Houle. "The community is an awesome place. I am proud to say I am from Ebb & Flow First Nation."
Dillan Houle is an educational assistant and a lifesaver.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
It's a fundraiser that is key to the team's operation every season.
The 2025 edition of the Dauphin Kings Tractor Lotto ended over the weekend. Brian Nepinak of Dauphin was the big winner. He took home the $100,000 grand prize. Tammy Rank of Ste. Rose won the 50/50 worth $35,130.
Christian Laughland is the Director of Business Operations for the Kings.
"It all worked out very well. It was a successful year for the Tractor Lotto. I think it made like $20,000 more than last year," said Laughland. "The Tractor Lotto is always successful if you look at it from a money making perspective. It's how big of a success it is. You hope it profits no less than $100,000. It was a really good one, and we can't thank everyone enough for the support."
The numbers are in, and wow, what a year. Laughland confirmed on Wednesday morning a profit of just over $135,000 from this year's Tractor Lotto. Many Parkland residents took home prizes this year, including Betty Filipchuk, Steve Ganzcar, Lee Stirling, Darcy and Audrey Dawson, and Corey and Ryan Delaurier.
Verna Smelski and Woodrow Smith both picked up brand new zero-turn riding lawn mowers courtesy of Reit-Syd Equipment in Dauphin.
The furthest winner this year was from Ashern. While Laughland says they're very appreciative of people buying tickets from outside of the Parkland, he's pleased that this year included many winners from the region.
"Just from the city and Parkland standpoint, that money most likely stays inside the economy. I know some of the people that won the big prizes are probably thinking about holidays and what not," added Laughland. "For the most part, when they win in the Parkland, that money will stay in the local economy, which is great for the region."
Tractor Lotto will return in 2026 and next year could be your year. Looking ahead, after Tuesday's postponed game against the Northern Manitoba Blizzard, the Kings only have one more game before the Christmas break.
They'll welcome the Waywayseecappo Wolverines to town on Saturday night. It's a special game. Teddy Bear Toss. It's simple, when the Kings score their first goal, you throw your Teddy Bear onto the ice.
All Teddy Bear's will be donated locally.
"The U11 Dauphin Kings will be picking up the Teddy Bear's. The Dauphin Clinic Pharmacy truck will be on the ice," ended Laughland. "Teddy Bear Toss is always an exciting game, and that'll be the case this year."
Dauphin's first game of 2026 will be on January 4. The Neepawa Titans will be in town.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
As winter has arrived in the Parkland, Canada Post is asking homeowners and businesses to keep their property in good shape for delivery agents.
The winter elements pose a safety risk to Canada Post employees and others.
Canada Post is asking for a few things that will help keep their agents safe and packages delivered on time.
- Remove snow and ice from your walkways, driveway, and around your mailbox.
- De-ice your stairs, entrance, and the path to your mailbox, using sand or salt.
- Keep your stairs, handrails, and mailbox free of obstructions and in good repair.
- Turn on outdoor lighting to keep pathways and stairs visible.
- When driving – especially in neighbourhoods – be mindful of delivery agents as they deliver letters and parcels.
Exhaust from your vehicle warming up can make the driveway icy.
Icicles forming on roofs from the freeze and thaw cycle could fall on a delivery agent or on the walkway, making it slippery. Here's a video with tips and tricks.
"We appreciate your help in keeping our employees – and others – safe," said Canada Post in a release.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
It's been a busy day for snow removal crews in Dauphin.
Most main routes and key corridors have been addressed. Routes that haven't will be on Thursday night into the overnight hours.
Starting at 10:00 p.m., crews will shift their attention to the downtown business area. They ask that you avoid parking on these streets so crews can work efficiently.
If time allows overnight, residential snow clearing will begin. If it does, it'll begin with street clearing in sequence following the Waste & Recycling Collection Map, starting in the Day One area.
The City of Dauphin thanks you for your cooperation.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
It was a beautiful sight in the Winnipegosis & District Arena earlier this week.
The stands were packed, and the battle was on. RCMP officers from the Parkland area battled against the Winnipegosis Tigers, a senior men's hockey team. One game and everything was on the line.
Matthew Goudie is the president of Winnipegosis Minor Ball.
"Everybody had a lot of fun. Many of the older guys on the Tigers team don't play as often, so there were a ton of line changes," said Goudie. "The RCMP officers had fun as well. It's not something they do all the time, either. It was a great night at the rink for all involved."
The Winnipegosis Tigers beat the Parkland RCMP, 13-5, in a high-scoring affair.
While the Tigers were winners, the true winner was the Winnipegosis Minor Baseball Association. Through a 50/50 and silver collection at the door, they raised $1,300. All of those funds go directly to the local baseball association in Winnipegosis.
They raised $234 through the 50/50 raffle, and the remaining amount was raised through the silver collection.
It was community spirit at its finest. Fans came out to watch some great hockey action and raised money for a great cause.
"It's always an awesome feeling to have someone step up and put on an event like that, and to donate it to a well-deserving cause," said Goudie. "Kids' sports, so it was really nice to see, and Winnipegosis Minor Baseball appreciates it."
Matthew credits local hero, Paul Lippens, for organizing the game and fundraiser.
The baseball season is now on hold, but in just a few short months, local stars at the U7, U9, and U11 levels in Winnipegosis will put their gloves back on and get ready for the summer season in the region. They usually start practicing in the gym in April.
"Get the kids started on some fundamentals and stuff like that," ended Goudie. "Then we'll wait for the snow to melt, and they'll get on the field. We'll run through the spring season, and we also do some fall ball when school starts in September. We went almost until the end of October this year."
The Manitoba RCMP thanks the community for hosting and supporting the event. They're looking forward to a rematch next season.
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A man has been arrested, and the search for a woman continues.
Earlier this year, a man and a woman entered a business on Main Street in Neepawa.
They filled the female's bag with numerous items.
An employee approached the suspects; however, they fled without paying in a grey coloured SUV.
The RCMP identified and charged a 66-year-old man from Brandon.
They are still searching for the female suspect.
If you have any information, call the Neepawa RCMP at 476-4370.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Nicole Foley and her daughters, Piper and Abigail Freiheit, have been volunteering at the Parkland Humane Society since August.
They're now gearing up for Presents for Penny on Christmas Eve. Eight years ago, they adopted Penny from the Humane Society in Dauphin. Penny is a beautiful dog that puts a smile on everyone she sees.
So the Freiheit family is stepping up.
"It's really important for us to give back to the community and the Parkland Humane Society," said Piper Freiheit. "We thought donating these gifts and making the holiday season special for the animals would be a good way to do that."
Piper says the family loves volunteering at the Humane Society and spending time with the animals. Ahead of Christmas Eve, the family is now accepting donations of cat and dog toys, treats, collars, bedding, and monetary donations.
The family has already received dozens of gifts that they're looking forward to wrapping and putting under a small Christmas tree. They've been collecting for a few weeks and have collected $325.
"So that's excellent, because it costs a lot to keep the animals in good condition, fed, and paying for vet bills," said Nicole. "Mostly right now, we're looking for toys and treats. Something special they may not otherwise get to make their Christmas special."
The family will be at the Humane Society on December 24 from 6:00 to 8:00.
When asked why they're doing this on Christmas Eve, Nicole was quick to say it's for the wonderful animals that won't be spending Christmas in their forever homes.
"For me personally, it's a difficult time of year because my dad passed away during Christmas time," ended Nicole. "I would like to change what this time looks and feels like by doing something meaningful."
If you'd like to donate, you can call Nicole at 572-5391.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Two Lions Club members from Birtle started the Journey for Sight in 1983.
They rode their snowmobiles to The Pas and raised $200 for a local charity. Almost 42 years later, the Journey for Sight is going stronger than ever. It has raised more than $ 2.5 million for charitable initiatives.
Every dollar raised helps people in need. From children gaining clear vision through KidSight screenings, to families supported through hearing programs, to those regaining independence and dignity. This year, the event runs from January 20 to 24.
Dean Lounsbury is back for his 26th year.
"25 years ago, I was told if you go on the Journey for Sight, you'll be hooked," said Lounsbury. "Honest to god, it's a great bunch of guys. What I like about the Journey for Sight is that 100 per cent of the funds raised go to the Lions Foundation."
Twenty-three riders from Dauphin and the area will take part this year. The list includes Dean, Tyler Lounsbury, Todd Rathwell, and Stephen Chychota, to name a few. Dean says it includes a mixture of veterans and newbies.
On January 20, the crew will leave Dauphin and trailer the sleds to Flin Flon. They will stop in Swan River for lunch. On the 21st, they have a meal in Cranberry Portage and end the day in The Pas. The following day, the ride continues to Swan River.
From there, some riders will go down Highway 83 towards Roblin while the rest will come back Dauphin's way. The ride concludes on January 24 at the Brandon Airport at 3:30 p.m. Members from the Brandon and Wheat City Lions Club will be on hand to provide dinner. There will also be guest speakers.
Donations are starting to roll in. As of publishing, Dean has already raised more than $3,000.
"Anyone who is involved in the ride has a pledge sheet and a receipt book," continued Lounsbury. "Donations of $20 or more will get you a tax receipt. We also have huge stickers with barcodes. We're going to put them on a few trailers, and you can go on that site to donate."
The Journey for Sight hits home for Dean. He had a scare last year and had to have laser surgery in Brandon.
"Without these resources and having people available to fix our eyesight, it can be a horrible situation," commented Lounsbury. "I think our eyesight is very important. I know many people wear glasses and visit Swan River, Dauphin, Brandon, or Winnipeg. I think it's a very worthwhile cause."
Lounsbury thanks the businesses and people of Dauphin for their support.
"Most of the money we raise comes out of our local community. The citizens and the businesses," ended Lounsbury. "We have large contributions out of Dauphin and the area. We also thank our spouses for their support."
If you'd like to donate, head here.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Talk of tariffs dominated the agricultural landscape in 2025, whether it was tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, or the heavy tariffs placed on Canadian canola by China later in the year.
And it also led to a busy year on the road for Dauphin MLA and Manitoba Agriculture minister Ron Kostyshyn, as he netowrked with the European Union and with several groups south of the border to share the strengths of Manitoba Ag products.
Kostyshyn says this face to face networking was very important.
"Who would have ever thought that 2.5 million weanlings leave the province of Manitoba every year and go to Iowa, because the Iowa pork industry appreciates the genetics of the Manitoba Pork, but also the bio-security that we have in place. So it is not just a matter of selling numbers, but why we are selling those numbers is because we run a very proferssional kind of organization."
That networking in the U-S will continue into the new year, as Kostyshyn is slated to attend the State of the Agricultural Rural Legislators convention.
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- Contributed by Jeff Henson
The final numbers are in for this year's Pack The Pumper/Cram the Cruiser challenge between the Dauphin RCMP and Dauphin Fire Department.
And Dauphin, you came through once again to help those in need at this time of the year.
The Fire Department brought in 2,060 pounds of food and $2,850 in cash, while the RCMP collected 700 pounds of food and $3,600 in cash.
The big winner is the Dauphin Food Bank, who received all of the donatios during a weigh-in event on Tuesday.
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- Contributed by Jeff Henson
