A fire broke out in the roof of the Otineka mall early Wednesday morning.

It was thanks to a quick response from the OCN fire department that the blaze was put under control and quickly extinguished.

The department got the call at approximately 7 am Wednesday morning thanks to a tip from the Paskwayak Gas Bar when staff had noticed unusual smoke coming from the building.

An investigation by the Office of the fire commission is underway, and more information will be made available when the investigation is complete.

The OCN Fire Department will also be hosting a pancake fundraiser tomorrow at the OCN Veterans Hall from 8:30 to Noon and is inviting the public to take part; Proceeds will go to support the upcoming 5^th Fireman’s Ball put on in the community with support from the Town of the Pas Fire Department.

The Ashley Ghostkeeper Home Routes 2026 Saskatchewan and Manitoba tour made a stop in The Pas yesterday, performing at the Sam Waller Museum. During her set, Ashley performed her latest release, “Callin’ Ma”- a song which Ashley says is inspired by the mother figures in her life.

Hailing from Northern Alberta, Ashley is a proud Metis Country Artist who has seen success on the charts. With 3 #1 hits on the Canadian Top Indigenous Music Countdown and multiple nominations at Calgary’s YYCA Music Awards, Ashley’s talents are earning her a name in Canadian Country Music!

You can listen to “Callin’ Ma” and other songs by Ashley Ghostkeeper on Spotify and Apple Music. To learn more about her life, career, and music, go to her official website, ashleyghostkeepermusic.com.

The Town of The Pas is heading to the polls next month for its municipal election.

Voters will elect one mayor and six councillors from a field of candidates.

The three candidates for mayor are Herb Jaques, Ralph McLean, and James Ridderikhoff.

Eleven candidates are running for council: Gary Hopper, Cindy Stephen, Debbie Howell, Larry Foster, Shelley Ward, Randy Manych, Trent Allen, Carrie Atkinson, Alan Gibb, Jim Berscheid, and one additional candidate listed on the official notice.

Election Day is Wednesday, October 28th. Polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Pas Metis Hall on Gordon Avenue.

Advance voting will be available October 21st at the Town Office at 81 Edwards Avenue, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Mobile voting will also be available on Election Day at several health-care facilities, including St. Anthony's Hospital, St. Paul's Residence, Northern View Lodge, Kin Court, Pine View Manor, and Val Halla.

Voters who cannot attend in person may also apply for a sealed-envelope ballot. Applications can be made in person, by mail, or by email between September 30th and October 25th.

Identification may be required at the polls. Voters can use government-issued photo identification or, if required, two other documents proving identity.

For more information, voters can contact the Town of The Pas Senior Election Official, Julie Fothergill.

Manitoba municipal elections are coming up next month and will be taking place on Wednesday, October 28^th.

Local Urban District committee members and councillors in the RM of Kelsey will be elected by acclamation, leaving the Reeves to go through the election process.

Running for Reeve for the RM of Kelsey are Valerie Berschide and Michael De Tremaudan.

For the office of councillor: Jarret Berezowecki, Joel LeSann, Davide Novo, Dan Davie, Hank Chevillard, and Mike DuBois will take over by acclamation.

For the Office Local Urban District: Tiffany Anderson and Terry McLennon will take over by acclamation.

Acclamation takes place when only one candidate has been nominated for the position, whereas an election will be held when multiple people have been nominated.

With the Municipal election only a month away, voting locations and opportunities will be announced by the RM of Kelsey soon.

As temperatures continue to drop, heading into the colder months, many Manitobans are starting to run their home heating systems. Manitoba Hydro is reminding Manitobans to take steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odourless, and tasteless gas that can be deadly.

Install a certified carbon monoxide alarm on every level of the home and near sleeping areas, and test the alarms regularly. Fuel-burning appliances should be inspected and maintained regularly. Ensure chimneys are cleaned regularly, and exterior vents are clear of snow, ice, leaves, and other debris. Never use barbecues, camp stoves, or fuel-burning space heaters indoors or in enclosed spaces. Never leave a vehicle running in an attached garage, even if the garage door is open.

If a carbon monoxide alarm does sound, leave the home immediately and call 911 from a safe location.

Manitoba Hydro says that working carbon monoxide alarms can save lives.

The Pas RCMP are searching for a missing female.

On September 21st, just after 3:00 PM, The Pas RCMP received a report of a missing 47-year-old female.

Henrietta “Melissa” Bear was last seen September 16th at the Wescana Inn in The Pas. She has not been heard from or seen since.

It is believed she is still in The Pas area or may have travelled to Pukatawagan. Her family and the RCMP are concerned for her safety.

Henrietta is described as 5’0” tall and was last seen wearing a black hat, camouflage-style hoodie, black sweatpants and white shoes with blue stripes. She was also carrying a gym-style bag.

If anyone has any information on the whereabouts of Henrietta Bear, please contact The Pas RCMP detachment at 204-627-6204.

The Pas Fire Department has been awarded up to $300,000 through the Canadian Red Cross 2025 Manitoba Wildfires Equipment and Training Fund.

The funding will purchase a fully equipped wildfire value protection trailer, along with other specialized equipment, designed to protect homes, businesses, and infrastructure during wildfire emergencies.

This investment will enhance the fire department’s ability to respond to wildfire threats. This announcement comes following a challenging 2025 wildfire season, which saw members of The Pas Fire Department assisting with wildfire operations in Flin Flon, Thompson, and Snow Lake.

Having the proper equipment when responding to active wildfires is essential. The funding for the equipment will go a long way in helping The Pas Fire Department continue to protect our community.

Local youth have the chance to volunteer at the Northern Manitoba Trappers’ Festival by joining the Youth Board. Youth Board members help plan, organize, and run events throughout the festival. It’s an opportunity to share your ideas, learn new skills, and work as part of a team.

Volunteering helps you gain confidence and a sense of purpose. Serving on the Youth Board provides an opportunity to experience Trappers’ Festival in a new way. Some of the events and activities Youth Board members help with include family fun, the pancake breakfast, the seniors show, and the scavenger hunt.

Youth ages 13 to 17 who are interested in joining the Youth Board are invited to attend a meeting on October 18th at 12:00 noon at The Pas Sweatshop. Parents are also welcome to attend the meeting. For more information, call Lyla at 204- 620-0899, or call Shirley at 204-620-7476.

This Saturday, the Opaskwayak Cree Nation Fire Department will hold a pancake breakfast fundraiser.

All proceeds from the breakfast will go towards the upcoming 5th annual Fireman’s Ball.

The menu includes pancakes, bacon, sausage, juice, coffee and tea. The breakfast costs $10 per plate and will be held at the OCN Veterans Hall from 8:30 AM until 12:00 PM.

University College Of The North recently celebrated the grand opening of its Bachelor in Ininimowin Program. This marks an important step forward in Indigenous language education.

The Bachelor in Ininimowin program allows students to develop proficiency in Cree while learning about local histories, cultures, and worldviews through language. The program helps students develop skills in communication, research, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

Students in the program have the opportunity to complete a University Certificate in Ininimowin after one year, a University Diploma after two years, or continue to a three-year Bachelor’s degree.

The Bachelor in Ininimowin is offered at both UCN’s The Pas and Thompson campuses. No previous Indigenous language experience is required.

The Beatrice Wilson Health Center is reminding everyone that small, healthy choices make a big difference when it comes to taking care of your body.

Eat nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables, and limit processed foods. Getting quality sleep is essential- aim for 7-9 hours each night. Avoid smoking, vaping, and drug use- try to find healthy ways to cope with stress. Keep your body hydrated: water helps with energy, focus, digestion, and skin health. It is also important to listen to your body, pay attention to fatigue, pain, or changes in your health.

Good hygiene is important; remember to wash your hands often, and take care of your skin and hair. Staying active and moving your body will also lift your mood- find something you enjoy, such as walking, biking, dancing, or stretching, and do it often. Managing stress helps keep a calm mind- try mindfulness, meditation, and spending time in nature. Building healthy habits is about progress, not perfection.

The Beatrice Wilson Health Center says that healthy habits today lead to a stronger, happier you tomorrow.

The Commanders Cup is your monthly opportunity to meet with local emergency services for respectful conversation and a good cup of coffee.

Participants can ask questions, make suggestions, and learn about how emergency services operate. It’s a chance to speak with those in charge, to share your thoughts and have your voice heard. 

Commanders from the following agencies will be there, ready to talk and ready to listen. The Pas RCMP, Manitoba First Nation Police Services, The Pas Fire Department, OCN Fire Department, Manitoba Conservation, Shared Health – EMS, The Pas Community Safety Officers, and The Pas Correctional Centre.

The next Commanders Cup is on Wednesday, October 7th at Kikiwak Inn from 9:00 to 10:00 AM. 

With the election just around the corner, the Town of The Pas is looking for election workers to help out during the upcoming municipal election. Working at the election is a great way to help serve your community and to ensure a successful election day.

Those interested must be available all day on election day, October 28th, from 7:30 AM until the vote count is completed.

Available positions include roles such as poll clerks, voting officers, and other election support staff. No prior experience is necessary, and training will be provided to all successful applicants.

If you are interested, contact the Senior Election Official, Julie Fothergill, at 204-281-3415. You can also reach out to the Senior Election Official by emailing Julie@townofthepas.ca.

Norway House RCMP are investigating a homicide following the death of a 36-year-old man.

Police were called to a residence on Paupanekis Point shortly after 3 a.m. on August 11th for a report of a severely injured male.

Officers and First Nation Safety Officers arrived and were advised by EMS that the man was deceased, possibly as a result of a stabbing.

RCMP Major Crime Services took over the investigation, with Forensic Identification Services assisting at the scene.

Investigators determined there had been a confrontation inside the home between the victim and another man, who fled the scene. The two men were known to each other.

A 33-year-old Norway House man was later arrested without incident and is facing a charge of second-degree murder.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Lynn Lake RCMP are investigating the suspicious death of a 72-year-old man.

Police say around 7:30 Sunday morning, a cell guard at the Lynn Lake RCMP detachment reported seeing a man lying outside the building.

Officers found the man suffering from serious injuries and provided first aid, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

RCMP believe the man had left his home and gone to the detachment after being assaulted.

Manitoba RCMP Major Crime Services has taken over the investigation, with Forensic Identification Services also assisting.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lynn Lake RCMP at 204-356-8862.

Culture Days continues across The Pas, with a variety of events celebrating local art, culture, and community.

Today, a walking path mural will be unveiled at the end of Campbell Street at 5:30 p.m., followed by a Hobbit Birthday Celebration from 5 to 8 p.m. at Round the Bend on 731 Landels Road.

Tomorrow features rock painting and an open house at The Pas Animal Shelter from 6 to 7:30 p.m., along with an afternoon at the Sam Waller Museum from 1 to 5 p.m. and a board game night at the Library Annex at 7 p.m.

A walking tour, titled Ghost Walk, is planned for Friday, September 25th, starting at the Sam Waller Museum.

Then, on Saturday, September 26th, a quilt show will take place at the Métis Hall from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., while The Comic Con runs at The Pas Library from 2 to 5 p.m.

And this Sunday, a nature walk and vendor sale will be held at the Grace Lake Boardwalk. The local 4-H will host a sourdough workshop at the Kin Centre, along with the Turkey Trot Poker Derby, and a family games day will run at the Sam Waller Museum.

Find a full list of Culture Days events on the 2026 Culture Days by The Pas Arts Council Facebook page.

Residents in The Pas can mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with two film screenings at the Métis Hall on September 30th.

The evening begins at 7 p.m. with The Red Dress, exploring themes of cultural identity, sexual assault, and the historical impact of colonialism on First Nations and Métis communities.

At 8 p.m., Ancestral Beasts will be shown, followed by a special question-and-answer session with filmmaker Tim Riel.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a time to honour residential school Survivors and remember the children who never returned home, while reflecting on the ongoing work of reconciliation.

Both screenings take place in the front room of the Métis Hall.

On Thursday, September 24th, the Sam Waller Museum will host a Home Routes Concert featuring Canadian Country artist Ashley Ghostkeeper.

Ashley Ghostkeeper is a Métis artist from Alberta. She garnered three #1 hits on the Canadian Top Indigenous Music Countdown and the #5 spot on the Canadian Top 40 Indigenous Music Countdown. She was recently voted #2 in Top Country Downloads for her song "Callin’ Ma".

Doors open at 7:00 PM, with the show starting at 7:30 PM. Advance tickets are available at the Sam Waller Museum; tickets cost $20 each, and there is a limited quantity. For more information, go to homeroutes.ca.

On Orange Shirt Day, September 30th, the Cree Nation Tribal Health, in partnership with The Pas Friendship Center, OCN Ministikok Legacy Project, and OCN Government Services, is holding a walk to honour and support Every Child Matters, Intergenerational survivors, and allies across the tri-community.

Tanille Easter with The Pas Friendship Center talks about the importance of Orange Shirt Day.

Walkers can meet at The Pas Friendship Center or the Gordon Lathlin Memorial Area at 8:30 AM for orange shirt distribution. Walkers will begin their route at 10:15 AM and make their way to OCN’s Veterans Hall. OCN Youth Mahakinak Drum Group will lead the crowd, along with Residential School survivors and RCMP.

At OCN’s Veterans Hall, participants will register; there will be guest speakers and a survivors panel. Traditional dancers will perform, along with honour songs, and lunch will be served.

More information can be found on The Pas Friendship Center's Facebook Page, or you can contact Tenielle at 204 627-7500.

Manitoba and the federal government are marking the 12th annual Farm and Food Awareness Week, running through September 25th.

This year’s theme is “Community and Agriculture: Growing Together,” highlighting the connection between Manitoba communities and the people who grow and produce their food.

A free, family-friendly Discover Agriculture on the Farm event was held Sunday at the Bruce D. Campbell Farm and Food Discovery Centre.

Local Food Day will also be recognized Wednesday, celebrating Manitoba farmers, local ingredients and the role local food plays in supporting families and communities.

Throughout the week, Manitoba Agriculture will share videos and resources online.

The Pas Friendship Center is sponsoring a series of free youth and family skates at the Roy H. Johnston Arena.

The skates are scheduled for today, from 4:15 to 5:15 PM. They will also be held on September 23rd from 4:15 to 6:00 PM and on September 28th from 4:15 to 5:15 PM.

Skaters must bring their own skates and helmet. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and all skaters must sign in before ice time begins.

For more information, call Nicole or Justin at 204-627-7500.

University College of the North has received more than 80-thousand dollars for a new research project focused on northern youth.

The two-year project will examine barriers Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth face when accessing services in Thompson, The Pas and Flin Flon.

Researchers will look at areas including mental health care, addiction treatment, education, employment and housing.

Led by Doctor Tariqul Islam, the project aims to develop recommendations that could make services more accessible and responsive to young people across Northern Manitoba.

It marks the first SSHRC-funded research project administered directly by UCN.

Residents from Rocky Lake to Moose Lake, including Clearwater Lake and Cormorant, are being advised of a planned power outage this Saturday, September 19th.

The outage is scheduled from approximately 8 am to 5 pm while critical upgrades are completed, affecting about 1,190 customers in the area.

Residents are encouraged to prepare ahead of time by having flashlights, extra batteries, a battery-powered radio, a portable phone charger, and enough food and water for at least three days.

During the outage, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed, unplug major appliances, and use flashlights instead of candles.

Anyone using a portable generator should operate it outdoors and away from windows and doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

The deadlines for nominations to get your name on the ballot for the upcoming provincial election in The Pas are fast approaching.

The nomination deadline is this coming Tuesday, September 22^nd.

Anyone interested and eligible is encouraged to help represent the community by need to have nomination forms in with at least 25 signatures from registered voters.

Forms can be submitted at the town offices at 81 Edwards Avenue in The Pas.

Forms can be filed at the offices Today, Monday or Tuesday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, by an agent, or by email.

To obtain nomination papers or declare candidacy, you can contact senior election official Julie Fothergill at 204-281-3415 or email Julie@townofthepas.ca

Manitoba will remain on daylight saving time permanently.

Premier Wab Kinew says the province will not turn its clocks back to standard time on November first.

The decision follows a Manitoba government survey that received nearly 72-thousand responses. Ninety-two percent wanted to end the twice-yearly time change, while 58 percent preferred permanent daylight saving time.

The government says the change could benefit families, businesses and public health by providing more evening daylight and eliminating disruptions caused by changing the clocks.

Manitoba joins several other provinces and territories moving toward permanent time, including Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, Yukon and the Northwest Territories.