Local News

Saskatchewan RCMP  are conducting proactive boat patrols on waterways this summer and are keen to remind southwest residents, families, and more that drinking and boating is a serious offence.

Operating a watercraft while impaired is punishable under the Criminal Code and can result in the loss of a driver's license, significant fines, and even jail time.

According to Saskatchewan RCMP, alcohol is a major factor in 60 per cent of fatal boating accidents in Canada every year.

A Winnipeg man with a history of property crimes was arrested by Altona police during an early morning traffic stop on Saturday just outside of Plum Coulee. 
    
According to police, officers pulled the man over for speeding and operating an unregistered vehicle. This led them to find open liquor, nearly 10 grams of meth along with break and enter tools in the vehicle. They also learned the license plates didn't match the vehicle.
    

The City of Winkler is gearing up for a full day of fun, food, and family-friendly entertainment as it celebrates Canada Day on July 1st. Community Events Coordinator Lucas Dyck says the event is shaping up to be “a full family event,” with something for all ages to enjoy.

“We’ve got lots on the menu for Canada Day,” said Dyck. “There’s a Kid Zone area, lots of entertainment for the kids — glitter tattoos, bouncy castles, bubble soccer, a petting zoo, kids train, and even a chance for kids to meet their favorite characters courtesy of Country Princess.”

Kevin Driedger is stepping into the role of Executive Director for the 500 Stephen Community Centre in Morden. In his previous role with the Pembina Valley Local Immigration Partnership (PVLIP), he worked out of the centre one day a week and has grown familiar. That experience left an impression. 

The Association of Nigerians in Portage la Prairie has launched a new initiative aimed at fostering critical thinking and STEM learning among immigrant youth in the community. With the support of a $5,000 grant, the organization is preparing to roll out a science-focused pilot program this August.

Acclaimed author Miriam Toews, originally from Steinbach, Manitoba, has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada for her significant contributions to Canadian literature. The announcement was made on June 30 by Governor General Mary Simon, recognizing Toews as a "pre-eminent writer whose novels explore human tragedy and comedy in one fell swoop."

It’s Canada Day in Portage la Prairie, and the community is coming together for a full day of family-friendly festivities at Stride Place and Island Park. Organized by the Portage Regional Recreation Authority (PRRA), the day promises to deliver fun at every turn, rain or shine.

Zapphira Major, Recreation Manager, says the PRRA is excited to invite everyone out to celebrate Canada’s birthday with them.

The tennis court on the Roland Pumpkin Fair (RPF) property is going to look a lot different this summer, thanks to a couple grants given to the Rural Municipality (RM) of Roland from Southern Health Sante Sud ($1800) and Homestead Coop (8 gallons of paint), according to RPF committee member Carrie Hennan.  

Provencher Member of Parliament Ted Falk says the summer months provide an excellent opportunity to find out what is on the minds of constituents. Falk says he will be busy over the next couple of months meeting with people and attending community events before Parliament resumes sitting in September. 

Summer is here, and so are summer day camps!

Throughout the Southeast, a variety of organizations and communities are offering opportunities for kids to make the most of the season, while supporting families along the way.

City of Steinbach day camps

Daniel Taillefer, recreation services coordinator for the City of Steinbach, says seven themed camps are planned this year, including a sports camp, adventure camp, and survivor camp.