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The province has put out their first Fire Bulletin of the year, highlighting changes outlined in the 2025 Wildfire Interim After Action Report to help the province's fire control for this year.
Important notes from the report include a $1.2 million upgrade to the Manitoba Wildfire Service's weather information and fire mapping systems, creating a new initial attack and fire base near Thompson, and a $1.1 million investment in aerial firefighting services.
Also of note, the province is adding 19 new seasonal positions, which includes 3 new initial attack crews, and converting 15 short-term emergency management staff to permanent positions. The province is also continuing to train and recruit community-based wildland firefighters, especially in First Nations.
The bulletin says spring is a very critical time for wildfire prevention. The province has a list of prevention tips in the latest Fire Bulletin.
- Do not burn if it is windy, as wind can make fires worse and blow embers and ash.
- Know and follow burn restrictions, which prohibit open fires from April 1 to Nov. 15 annually, except under a burning permit or in approved enclosed fire pits, such as grated campfire pits in provincial campsites.
- Never leave an outdoor fire unattended and always fully extinguish fires by drowning ashes and embers with water before leaving. This includes safely disposing of ashes from wood stoves, burn barrels and campfires.
- Practice FireSmart principles during spring cleanup. Prune tree branches on properties to two metres above ground, remove combustible debris such as dried leaves, needles and branches, and keep lawns shorter than 10 centimetres. For more information, visit www.firesmartcanada.ca.
- ATV riders should stay on developed trails and regularly check for debris in areas around the engine and exhaust system, disposing of any materials safely.
- Prevent sparks by checking and maintaining all equipment, including vehicle tires, trailers and off-road vehicles, and any other equipment traveling along roadways. Also check safety chains on trailers and make sure they are well off the ground before driving.
- Be prepared to extinguish small fires safely by making sure to always carry a fire extinguisher, axe and shovel when travelling in backcountry.
- Hunters should ensure any firearm discharge residue is fully extinguished to prevent wildfires.
- Do not fly drones near wildfires, as they can interfere with emergency aircraft operations. Water bombers and helicopters cannot operate safely if drones or other aircraft are in the area, which can delay response put firefighters on the ground at risk without air support.
- Practice FireSmart waste management as responsible management of garbage dumps helps reduce wildfire risk. Poorly managed waste sites can easily ignite and spread fire, especially during dry conditions.
Click here to view the province's first Fire Bulletin of the year.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
Rockin' the Fields of Minnedosa day passes are set to go on sale Friday, May 8th at 10:00 AM.
Kamryn Winters, Marketing Coordinator, said with the addition of day passes, Rockin' the Fields definitely has something for everyone this year.
"It depends what kind of concert goer you are, if you're somebody that wants to experience the whole festival itself, definitely weekend pass and camping would make more sense for you, but for somebody that wants to go in for the day, take in the vendors and the experience for the day, and then get home at a reasonable hour, then the day pass is for you," said Winters.
This year's lineup is definitely Rockin', featuring big classic rock names like Cheap Trick and Collective Soul, and heavier bands like Quiet Riot and Helix. Also featured are some cover bands, like Last Kiss as a Kiss tribute band, and The 12/21 with a Simple Plan tribute set.
Winters said though day passes will be available, the Rockin' the Fields experience as a festival is one you can't miss.
"My mind always goes to, this is a weekend. It's a weekend experience, it's a weekend pass, but I think [Rockin' the Fields] having different kind of themed days will help a lot for people that are just interested in coming for the day," said Winters.
Rockin' the Fields of Minnedosa 2026 is set for July 31st through August 2nd.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
The Alert Ready system took over every TV, radio, and compatible moble phone in Manitoba yesterday to broadcast a test of their system. Good news: it worked like a charm.
Kurt Eby is the Director of Regulatory Government and Affiliate Relations with Pelmorex. They're the company that runs and manages the National Alert Aggregation and Dissemination System, which is the tech responsible for taking over every broadcast during alerts. He said tests like the one on Wednesday in Manitoba are one of the many ways they make sure they're always ready.
"Public tests have a number of objectives and purposes...at the starting end, the emergency management officials like the ones in Manitoba, it gives them an opportunity to login and issue a live test, that's important in particular if they haven't done one in a while, depending on what type of situations may have been happening in the province...it tests our system, and then it tests the technology of all the distributors on the other end just to make sure that what they have in place to distribute the alerts to the proper geographic areas is working, and everything like that," said Eby.
The benefits don't just lie with Pelmorex and governments who would need to issue alerts. Eby said one of the most important groups that benefits is the general public. He said it's gotten to the point where they get more messages and complaints if people don't receive the alert.
"It lets people become familiar or maintain familiarity with what the alert looks like and sounds like, and we know it's very jarring, intentionally so," said Eby.
Behind the scenes, the tests look a lot different than you'd expect. Eby said it relies on a lot of phone calls, and put an even bigger emphasis on good communciation.
"We open a phone bridge with out counterparts for every test, and we're on to make sure that [the alert] is getting out, they'll say we got it, we got it, we got it, and it's gone, it's gone, it's gone, and so just to do that all live," said Eby.
The National Alert Ready System usually holds live public tests like this twice a year, once in May and once in November.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
It's been an event that the community has supported for decades. Since 2003, to be exact.
Later this month, you can do it again. The Rotary Club of Dauphin continues its busy season of fundraisers later this month. Lobsterfest is back on Friday, May 29. It will start with cocktails at 6:00 p.m. at Obsolete Brewing Company. Supper hits the table at 7:00.
Lindsay Dingwall is with the Rotary Club of Dauphin, and she says the supplies have been ordered, the burners are being checked, and the volunteers are being lined up.
Tickets are $100. That includes a snack as soon as you walk in the door and mussels with cream sauce.
"Then you get your 1.5 pounds of lobster with sides. We have new sides this year," said Dingwall. "Then we follow it up with a dessert. DJ Candence will provide entertainment. There will also be a raffle.
The proceeds from this year's event are going to the Food For Thought program in Dauphin. The program feeds hot meals to registered students during the school year.
"The program is meaningful to so many of us," ended Dingwall. "Many of us have volunteered and raised money for it. We believe kids should have food in their bellies. When your tummy is full, they can learn better."
A limited number of tickets remain available. To get yours today, head here.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
A 54-year old man from Swan River faces a charge of theft under $5,000 after robbing a restaurant on Kelsey Trail in Swan River.
On Tuesday at 2:00 a.m., officers responded to the scene of the robbery. The man forced the restaurant's drive-thru window open while staff worked a short distance away.
With his body half in the building, he reached into the cash register, and fled with a small amount of cash.
He was located and arrested. He remains in custody while he awaits a court appearance.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Preparations are well underway for the Mountain View School Division's graduation powwow.
It will take place on Thursday, May 21.
Gord Wood says things have been going very well.
"So we have a lot of planning and last-minute things taking place," said Wood. "This is a community event. We're inviting everyone from the community. It's about bringing people together and celebrating in a great way."
If you are planning to attend, you're asked to register. That helps them plan for the crowd size, lunch preparation, and transportation. MVSD is offering free transportation. Pickup will be at the Dauphin Friendship Centre at 9:30. You can also be picked up at the Dauphin Marketplace Mall at 9:45.
The bus will return those in attendance to Dauphin in the afternoon. The day itself is from 9:00 to 3:00.
Jade Erlendson joined Gord on the CKDM Morning Show with Alec Woolston.
"At noon, we're going to have a community feast with some music workshops," said Erlendson. "We will honour our graduates, followed by more powwow dancing. There will be other workshops throughout the day. Storytelling, beading, and more. We also have some fantastic guests joining us, including Clifton Flett."
This will be MVSD's 13th annual graduation powwow.
"Time flies. This is the first time we're hosting it at the Selo Ukraina Site," said Wood. "We're putting a strong call for community members, dancers, and drum groups to come be a part of it. It's an amazing opportunity for celebration, connecting, and learning."
There will also be plenty of vendors set up in the mini mall at the site. Already more than 1,500 have registered to take part in the special day.
Ahead of the event, the powwow committee is hosting a fundraising BBQ on Thursday at the Dauphin Co-op from 10:00 to 2:00. Hot dogs, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and drinks will be for sale.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
In 2011, the prevalence of autism in Manitoba children was estimated to be 0.58 percent.
By 2022, that number rose to 1.67 percent. In 2025, a report found that 1.5 percent of adults were living with autism. Autism isn't a limitation; it's a different way of seeing the world. The Ebb and Flow Elementary School hosted Autism Awareness Day on Thursday, April 16.
The day started with a gathering at centre court, and at 10:30, roughly 250 students from nursery to grade six hit the streets for a walk around the community.
Myles Houle's daughter is in grade two and has autism.
"I was just overwhelmed and so excited," said Houle. "I was so happy to see the kids walk in support. It was a great feeling."
After the walk, students, staff, and Elders gathered for a feast. Then, to wrap up the special day, there was a petting zoo.
To end it all, there were tears. It was a day that Myles will never forget.
"At the end of the walk, I cried," ended Houle. "To see her and everyone smile, everything. It was such a special moment."
Special things happen when a community comes together. The Ebb & Flow First Nation's elementary school came together for a great day and to raise autism awareness.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Next year's Parkland Travel Club destination has been set for a country that's full of life: Croatia.
Kamryn Winters, Executive Director with the Parkland Chamber of Commerce, said the destination was chosen after the Chamber looked at response to their previous destinations. They even put out a survey to former attendees for their feedback.
"We had seen significant uptake in Portugal, Costa Rica, and then Italy didn't have as much uptake, and I think it's just because Italy is a destination where more and more people are going to now...we saw a lot of uptake in people wanting more of an exotic destination, one that you don't necessarily consider going to," said Winters.
The Travel Club website highlights some of the plans for the trip's itenerary, including Plitvice Lakes National Park (pictured above). Winters said the landmarks, culture, and cuisine are all reasons why the Chamber picked Croatia.
"Croatia just seemed like a really cool destination that not a lot of people would've went to on their own," said Winters.
Not a member of the Parkland Chamber of Commerce? Don't worry: you don't need a membership to go. The Travel Club is open to any Parkland resident wanting to go.
"Parkland focused, chamber members, non-members, it doesn't matter," said Winters.
The Parkland Travel Club aims to give anyone wanting to travel a bit more comfort by arranging travel with people from the Parkland.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
Wednesday marks McHappy Day, and McDonald's restaurants in Dauphin and Swan River are supporting the cause.
This year, owner Mahir Patel has partnered with École Swan River South School. In Dauphin, both Henderson Elementary School and Tinker Bell Nursery School will benefit.
75 percent of the funds collected on Wednesday will stay local. The remaining 25 percent goes towards the Ronald McDonald House in Winnipeg.
When you head to McDonald's in Swan River and Dauphin on Wednesday, don't forget to pick up some merchandise.
"We have unique tote bags, four different hats, which is a surprise," added Patel. "We also have collectible socks."
10 percent of your purchases on Wednesday will go to support the cause.
According to recent data, the Ronald McDonald House in Winnipeg supports over 1,600 families per year through its overnight accommodation and day-use programs.
"In 2025, 56 Dauphin families have used the Ronald McDonald House, adding up to 488 nights," ended Patel. "If I were to talk about Swan River, 26 families used the program."
So whether it's your morning coffee, a burger at lunch, or dinner for the family, your purchase at the Dauphin and Swan River McDonald's on Wednesday supports a great cause.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
More than 20 families and nearly 100 people were forced out of their homes on the O-Chi-Chak-Ko-Sipi First Nation due to severe flooding in July of 2014.
McKenzie McDonald and her family were among those who evacuated. They moved around the Parkland, spent time in Brandon, and then moved to Winnipeg. The family spent three years in Winnipeg before moving back home.
She finished middle school on the First Nation before completing her high school studies at Rorketon School. She graduated in June of 2023. Just months later, McKenzie moved back to Manitoba's capital. She enrolled in pre-law at the University of Winnipeg in September of 2023.
"I always wanted to be a lawyer growing up," said McDonald. "I did my one year there. I took criminal justice, political science, conflict resolution, and rhetoric writing.
Growing up, writing was a major hobby of McKenzie's, along with reading and drawing. In June of 2024, McDonald moved back to her home community on the Ochi-Chak-Ko-Sipi First Nation and started as a cashier at the band store.
She spent less than three weeks as a cashier before she was quickly promoted to assistant manager at the store. Earlier this year, McKenzie noticed an opening at the Healing Lodge in the community. She didn't think much of it at the start because she was comfortable and enjoying her role at the band store.
Ultimately, McKenzie went in for an interview on February 2. She got the job on the spot. She took the role of members' finance manager. She's in charge of the members' finances and helps them with their budgets.
"I felt very honoured to be given such a great position," added McDonald. "I still feel very fortunate. I love the work I do, it's a great job."
The O-Chi-Chak-Ko-Sipi Healing Lodge is an Indigenous-run men's correctional facility. It's designed to rehabilitate its members through cultural, spiritual, and holistic methods.
Now three months into her new career, McKenzie has enjoyed every moment.
"I think for me, it's seeing all the members progress through their journeys," added McDonald. "I try to help them stay positive. Many of them like to save their money so they have some footing when they leave. It's seeing them do better."
Late last week, the Southern Chiefs Organization posted on Facebook saluting McKenzie for her incredible job and work ethic.
"Again, I feel very honoured," commented McDonald. "I wasn't expecting a post like that. It's a lot, I feel very proud of myself."
While McKenzie has pondered moving back to the city to continue her schooling, she's happy to have stayed in her home community alongside her family and friends.
"It's very nice. It was good in the city, but out here, it's a beautiful place," ended McDonald. "Either way, I'm grateful. I ended up staying here, and I'm happy where I am."
As for the future, McDonald plans on staying in the law and government system. It's been her passion since she was young.
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- Contributed by Darnell Duff
On May 3rd, Dauphin RCMP executed a search warrant at a home on Hawthorne Avenue, and arrested a man found in a hidden room in the home.
In a news release, RCMP say officers from the RCMP Manitoba West District General Investigation Section, along with Dauphin RCMP and Dauphin Police Dog Services, entered the home after announcing themselves.
RCMP searched the home and found a hidder room behind a fake wall. Inside the room, RCMP found various weapons, and a trap door which led to another hidden room. After 20 minutes, the suspect came out of the second hidden room and was taken into custody without incident.
Jayson Mcdougall of Dauphin has been charged with possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and resisting arrest. He had previously been charged with several things, including flight from a peace officer and theft over $5,000. The other occupant of the home was arrested and charged with obstructing police, and was released on a promise to appear in court at a later date.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
