NewsNow
Marsha McDonald of Ochre River has avoided time behind bars.
In October of 2024, the RCMP found 44 grams of cocaine and Canadian currency in the vehicle Marsha was in.
The 40-year-old received a conditional sentence of two years less a day. That's followed by one year of probation.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
The organization was put on the back burner because of a lack of board members.
The Intermountain Sport Fishing Enhancement is now back. Rod Carberry and a great group of volunteers have stepped up to take over the organization. It's been four years since the group last had any activity.
Their objective is to enhance fishing opportunities in the region. They stock and improve boat launches. If you enjoy fishing, the group will do everything in its power to ensure you have plenty of opportunities to do so in Parkland.
Carberry talks about the importance of this group.
"I think it's pretty important. Some things have gone unmaintained. For example, the Valley River boat launch. Every spring, the launch is affected because of high water and spring runoff. Then the launch becomes unusable," said Carberry. "That particular launch is important for smaller vessels. Like your 12, 14, and 16-foot boats that need a safe place where they can fish."
Rod adds that the Vermillion River is an excellent resource for both local anglers and for tourism. It's grown in and requires some maintenance. For the first time in a few years, there was a fishing day at Uncle Bob's trout pond. It was very well received.
If you are an angler, you'll know all the great fishing spots here in the Parkland. If you're interested in getting into it, Rod says you're in for a treat.
"Yeah, we've got a great area. Intermountain says it all, we're between Riding Mountain and Duck Mountain," continued Carberry. "Lake Dauphin's winter fishing is known to be some of the best Walleye for consistent size. Then you start getting into the Duck Mountains, and there are endless opportunities up there. We're in a great spot, and we need to continue developing it."
Earlier this year, the group was out on the water at night fishing with the E boat, doing a population study of the Bass and forage on the Vermillion Reservoir. 95 bass were caught, measured, and weighed to determine age class and overall health of the lake.
"Yeah, it was very cool. It's the first time I've experienced E fishing," ended Carberry. "We shocked the lake and scooped up with nets everything that floated to the surface that we could. We partnered with Manitoba Fisheries. They're going to take the data and create a report for us. They were quite positive with the results and the amount of bass and age class that we got."
If you are interested in what the group is doing or have opinions on what should be done, reach out to Rod on Facebook.
Ice fishing season is right around the corner. Good luck catching.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
The RCMP says there appears to be no injuries.
At 7:15 on Tuesday morning, the RCMP responded to a two-vehicle accident on Highway 20 and Road 156 North.
A vehicle slid into a semi and ended up in the ditch. The driver of the semi stayed on the scene.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
As part of Put Your Money Where Your House is, our local promotion that has a prize available of $730 Parkland Chamber Bucks to a lucky qualifier, we spoke with Chop Shop owner Scott, who says there are many benefits to getting your haircut done locally.
He also joked that he'll fix "on Monday morning" the Amazon self-done haircuts from the previous weekend.
- Details
- Contributed by Mark Jones
Today is voting day for the by-election for Ward 4 within Mountain View School Division.
Residents of the City of Dauphin head to the polls at the Dauphin Friendship Centre between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Jarri Thompson is the current vice-chair of the board. She says every ballot cast helps shape the future of our schools.
"Especially when it comes to ensuring that our young people are represented, supported, and heard," said Thompson. "As a trustee, I see every day how important community participation is. When we show up, we make our schools stronger, more responsive, and more reflective to the families we serve."
Carter Taylor-Luke, Sonja Blank, Michelle Smigelski, Rigby Devos, and Valerie McInnes are vying for one spot.
"If you're able to, please take a few minutes out of your day to vote," ended Thompson. "Your vote is your voice and it truly makes a difference."
The by-election comes after the passing of trustee John Taylor earlier this year.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
An arrest has been made after someone hunted illegally in Riding Mountain National Park.
On November 2, Park Wardens executed two search warrants and arrested an individual from Elm Creek for illegal hunting. This person faces serious charges under the Canada National Parks Act and the Criminal Code.
They include hunting within a National Park, Unlawful possession of a firearm in a National Park, operating an ATV in a National Park, and Careless use of a firearm.
Two ATVs were seized along with multiple firearms, ammunition, and other hunting-related equipment.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Almost seven years ago, Rhett Law was looking for a stable job.
He joined Dean Cooley GM, and the rest is history, literally. Rhett will celebrate seven years at the dealership in Dauphin in March.
"It's been a pretty incredible ride. I have seen plenty of changes over the years. I am loving my time here," said Law. "I don't think I could have found a better, well-fit place for me in terms of the workplace. It's a great group here. It reminds me of the old hockey days."
Rhett said being at Dean Cooley GM doesn't feel like work. It's a home away from home for him. He takes great pride in helping those looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle.
He comes in early and stays late. Whatever you need to get in your dream ride, Rhett will be by your side, helping you every step of the way.
"I love all the people that I work with her. Mostly with customers, I've always been a people person, and I love the relationship building," continued Law. "I get a chance to build long-lasting relationships. I enjoy the people side of the business."
Almost seven years later, Rhett has sold 1,150 vehicles. 2025 was a year for the history books. On Monday, November 24, Rhett sold his 300th vehicle this year. From just looking for a job to selling 300 vehicles in a single year is a testament to Rhett's hard work and dedication.
"I'm a pretty eager guy and pretty competitive. I think I found the right fit for me," added Law. "Something that gives me drive, I'm always chasing new goals and targets. I find it very fun."
Not only did Rhett smash his own record, but he broke a record for the entire Murray Auto Group. He now holds the record for the most vehicles sold in a year across the Auto Group. And with over a month still left in 2025, Law is well on his way to shattering it.
Rhett and the crew celebrated the record last week.
"It's an incredible feeling. I have a ton of support, so many people have reached out, and it gives me such joy," commented Law. "The support from family, friends, and the local community. It's pretty heartwarming."
Law, who is originally from McCreary but now lives in Dauphin, thanks all of the Parkland for their support over the years. A special thanks to his customers.
History has been made at Dean Cooley GM, and Rhett Law is the one holding the title. Rhett also wants to thank Dean for giving him the opportunity to sell vehicles.
"It's a pretty incredible run operation. It's a fun atmosphere with a great group of people," ended Law. "Everybody involved. Jordan and Dean run a good ship."
If you're looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle, Rhett invites you down to check out what Dean Cooley GM has to offer.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
The Veterans Community Hall in Swan River will host an important meeting on Tuesday.
From 10:00 to 4:00, there will be an older adults police academy. It's for those aged 18 and older. It focuses on skills and safety principles for older adults, and empowers participants with key information.
Lacey Clarkson is a corporal with the RCMP Community Engagement Services.
"We provide participants with information on a variety of topics," said Clarkson. "They include elder abuse, medication safety, fraud and scams, fire safety, wills, and power of attorney. We're coming to the table with a ton of information for those who come."
Matt Linnick of the Swan Valley Fire Department is among those who will speak. Joe Coffey and Jack Koreliuk of Sneath-Strilchuk Funeral Services will also speak.
Clarkson says this is a key meeting and she welcomes the entire community to join.
It's free, and there will be door prizes with a light lunch.
"We just held one in Winnipegosis on Friday and had plenty of positive feedback," ended Clarkson. "There was a ton of great information. In particular, especially frauds and scams piece because many people are dealing with that right now."
This same meeting was held in Dauphin last month and was very well attended. You're asked to call 734-9301 to pre-register.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
CAA Manitoba recently did a survey, and the results are shocking.
The survey shows that more people are using cannabis before getting behind the wheel. Data from the survey shows that 24 per cent of drivers admitted to consuming cannabis before driving. 10 per cent of Manitobans reported driving after using cannabis in the past few months. 63 per cent said they got behind the wheel within three hours of use.
"Yeah, so these numbers are all up from last year. It tells us a bit of a story," said Ewald Friesen, manager, government & community relations for CAA Manitoba. "It shows us the sense of false confidence some users have after consuming cannabis. It raises some important questions about the research and awareness that still needs to be done."
In another study, 50 drivers aged 19 to 30 were examined to assess how consuming cannabis influences collision risk. Only four per cent of participants felt safe getting behind the wheel 90 minutes after eating an edible cannabis product.
Friesen says there are many dangers to driving while under the influence of cannabis, including your reaction time. You won't be able to respond on the road as quickly as if you were sober.
"The other one that we talk about is lane discipline. Our study participants were not staying in their lane; they were leaving and weaving into other lanes. This does not bode well," continued Friesen. "The third one is speed control. Folks were either driving too quickly or too slowly as a result of cannabis impairment."
More than half of Manitobans are unaware of the penalties associated with driving under the influence of cannabis.
"It's worth noting that the consequences of driving high in the province of Manitoba are very real," added Friesen. "Many folks don't understand that the penalties for driving high are the same as alcohol impairment. Impaired is impaired."
Drivers may face enhanced roadside sanctions, including an administrative penalty of $700, vehicle impoundment, mandatory Ignition Interlock participation for one year, an impaired driver assessment and a movement of 10 levels down the Driver Safety Rating scale. Depending on the severity of convictions, impaired drivers may be charged further under the Criminal Code of Canada.
As the holiday season approaches, Friesen is cautioning everyone to have fun but be safe. Everyone deserves to get to their destination safely. Driving under the influence of cannabis and or alcohol is a big no-no.
"Cannabis consumption is legal in this country if you're 18, and that's great," ended Friesen. "If you choose to use cannabis, please appoint a designated driver. Take a taxi or rideshare. You can also stay overnight."
CAA Manitoba wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Snow has hit the Parkland and Mountain View School Division is prepared for when the worst of winter hits.
When poor weather arrives during a school day, MVSD's transportation department and senior administration assess travel by looking at the following.
- Road conditions;
- Temperature and wind chill;
- Reports from bus drivers and RM officials; and
- Weather warnings.
When it comes to bus cancellations, routes are only cancelled when it's determined to be unsafe to drive students.
If MVSD makes the decision to not operate a certain route, parents or guardians and the public will be notified, in multiple ways.
- Text alert (only to parents/guardians of registered students who use the bus);
- Website and social media; and
- Radio station announcements.
Parents or guardians always have the right to make the final decision on whether to send their child to school or not.
If buses are cancelled, schools may remain open.
Teachers will provide instruction to those in attendance.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Canada's National Ukrainian Festival officially put a bow on what was a year for the record books.
They held their annual general meeting recently at the Dauphin Active Living Centre. The event was open to the public, and as Kayla Gillis says, it was a great evening.
"It was amazing. It was amazing to see quite a few people from the public come," said Gillis. "It was nice to be able to celebrate with them, and not just our board of directors."
The event this past summer was the 60th anniversary. The grandstands were packed all weekend, and it was a Ukrainian display like no other. Gillis confirms it was one of the best years that the festival has ever had.
"I do recall about 10 years ago when I took the chair position, we were sitting in a very tough spot," offered Gillis. "It's really nice to see that we're able to get out of that and are now moving forward. We're sitting fantastically. It's a reassurance that CNUF will run for years to come."
Gillis notes that a younger crowd flocking to the festival site is great to see, and it proves that CNUF is what the community wants. Late last month, the festival announced its first set of performers for the 2026 event.
The Sparkling Tones, Midlife Crisis, Steppe, and Neech were announced to perform. Now, as Gillis and her crew move forward, planning is already underway for the 61st festival next year.
"We never stop planning. We're planning for a few years down the road; you need to be a few years ahead," continued Gillis. "We have some amazing announcements coming in the near future. We will have some great fundraising opportunities."
In the next few months, CNUF will be releasing a 60th anniversary video, capturing the magical moments. As a festivalgoer, you play a massive role in the success of Canada's National Ukrainian Festival.
Without you, there would be no festival. Gillis wants to tip her cap and say thank you.
"Just continue doing what you're doing. It's amazing to see everyone come out and support us," ended Gillis. "The volunteers, our sponsors, entertainers, and fans. Without all of them, this festival wouldn't happen. It is amazing to see the support from Dauphin and the surrounding communities."
What a weekend it was. In 2026, the magic of CNUF returns, just south of Dauphin.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
