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More than 300 vehicles were stopped over the weekend as the Manitoba RCMP Traffic Services and Spruce Plains RCMP set up two check stops near the site of Rockin’ the Fields of Minnedosa.
Every driver provided a breath sample as part of mandatory alcohol screening. Two 72-hour roadside suspensions were issued. One to a 74-year-old man from Minnedosa and another to a 68-year-old man from Eden.
A 24-hour roadside suspension was given to an 18-year-old man from the RM of North Norfolk. An 18-year-old man from Sidney was issued a ticket under the Highway Traffic Act for operating a vehicle with a restricted license while having alcohol in his blood.
A 29-year-old woman from Winnipeg was given a ticket for driving without a valid driver's license.
The RCMP thank all rockers for making it a safe and enjoyable weekend. They're also praising all volunteers and organizers whose hard work helped make the event such a success.
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The community was set to come together on July 30 for the Parkland Chamber Street Fair & Dance.
That never happened after the devastating flood. At the time, the Chamber said it was exploring opportunities to host a modified event in the fall.
Today, the Chamber has your back. They've announced they'll host a fall edition of the street fair and dance on Friday, September 18. It will still take place at CN Park and along 1st Avenue Northwest.
Christian Laughland, a board of directors member with the Chamber, says the street fair is one of the happiest days in Dauphin.
"I've been saying that for years. It just seems everyone is in a great mood. I'm sure that'll be the case come Friday, September 18," said Laughland. "It's obviously a bit later in the year which is not what the Chamber board wanted. One of the positives is we, hopefully, won't have to deal with extreme heat. Hopefully, it's the same type of atmosphere that you've come used to."
It's a full day of vendors, food, family fun, entertainment, and an opportunity for the community to celebrate together.
If you've been to the street fair and dance in the past, you know what it's all about. If you haven't, mark your calendars and set your plans, because you're in for a treat.
Whether you're five years old or 95, it's an event for everyone.
"Really meet up with some friends and be a part of something that feels almost like a family reunion," ended Laughland. "I'm really glad that we're going to be able to have it. Especially considering what has gone on in July since the flood. It's been a really tough summer for people. I feel by that time, people will really want to let loose. The street fair and dance will give people that chance."
Applications for vendors have reopened. Interested vendors can apply here.
Live music starts at 10:00 a.m. and runs until midnight. There will be a Kids Zone, mini-train rides, beer gardens, and so much more.
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"Controlling your speed is an excellent way of being mindful of fuel consumption," said Friesen. "Drive conservatively. If you find yourself stuck in traffic, avoid those rapid starts and stops. Don't race towards the stop sign. Regular maintenance, especially tire pressure, is a big one."
"So let's be mindful of this, especially as we head to the cottage on the weekend," ended Friesen. "We're all excited to get our toes in the water. But we have to be mindful of folks who prefer different means of transportation."
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Warren Clark has been on the board of directors for the Swan Valley Stampeders for the last 15 years.
His father-in-law was one of the instrumental pieces that helped bring the Stampeders to town. So joining the board for Warren when he could was a no-brainer.
"Trying to keep up the tradition. I love hockey. I actually played with the Dauphin Kings in the 80s," said Clark. "It's something the town needs, I believe. I enjoy it. Meeting other people and being around, it's fun."
Clark is now serving as the organization's interim president. The team opens the new 2026-27 season on Friday, September 18. They're at the Roy H. Johnston Arena to play the Northern Manitoba Blizzard in the first of a home-and-home.
The Stampeders were founded in the 1999-2000 season. 25-plus years later, the team is still going strong.
"They draw business to town. The hotels and restaurants," commented Clark. "There's a good fanbase here. I really, really think when it's minus 30 in the winter, it's a great time to go with your friends and watch some pretty good hockey."
As the new season nears, the team is in need of board of directors. Warren says they're looking for three more after five left.
As a board of director, some tasks include finding volunteers for game days, spending time in the community during team events, and helping out with team fundraisers, to name a few.
By becoming a board of director for the Stampeders, you can play a vital role in keeping the organization thriving and in the community.
"If you enjoy hockey, you get to learn some of the behind the scenes," continued Clark. "Volunteering and giving back to something that means a lot to people in the Swan Valley."
After last month's devastating flood, the thought of hockey was put on the back burner for many. The community continues to show its resilience and is bouncing back.
The Stampeders faced heartbreak as well as their fundraiser that runs at the rodeo didn't go forward when the event in the community was cancelled.
Today as the community bounces back, there's a new mindset for some.
"I think we're getting back to normal in town," ended Clark. "Usually in August, everyone starts thinking about the hockey season because the ice gets put in. There's some excitement around town."
If you're interested in becoming a board member, you can reach out to Warren at 281-2029.
Stampeder Notes:
- The team recently held their annual general meeting. They brought in $517,755 this past season, compared to $457,079 last year;
- Game night numbers increased last season. The Stampeders brought in $40,484 on game nights. That's up from $39,709 the previous year;
- Ricky Barker has been hired as the team's director of marketing for the 2026-27 season;
- and the team's preseason begins on August 31 against Waywayseecappo. It's the first of a home-and-home between the two teams.
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According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, it's Tree Check Month, an important way for Canadians to help protect their local forests and greenery.
Adele Julien, Plant Health Risk Assessor with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, said the goals of Tree Check Month are all pretty simple.
"To encourage Canadians to look for signs of invasive pests on the trees in their yard, their neighbourhood, and just in green spaces...August is a great time to inspect your trees, as pests are more active, and people are just more likely to be outside and enjoying the nice weather," said Julien.
The process is very simple. Julien desribes it as working from the ground up: starting with checks of the roots and base of the tree for cuts or damage, and inspecting that damage.
"Another thing to look for is frass, so it kind of looks like sawdust, and what it is, it's waste from insects making holes in your tree, so all of those things can be found near the bottom of the tree," said Julien.
To wrap up your tree check, take a look at the canopy, and take note of any discoloured leaves, or leaves with holes. If you notice anything out of the ordinary with the tree, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency encourages you to contact a local professional to find solutions.
Why bother with checking your trees? They're a lot more important than you might realize.
"Healthy trees really are the foundation of strong ecosystems, resilient communities, and a stable economy as well. Forestry is a very big sector in Canada, and protecting tree health supports local jobs, sustainable trade, and Canada's reputation for high-quality, pest-free exports," said Julien.
According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's website, the main pest to watch out for in Manitoba is the Emerald Ash Borer. The CFIA says that pest alone has already killed millions of trees across the continent, and has spread to 6 provinces.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
The Steep Rock Community Club is holding a celebration for everyone this weekend.
The two-day celebration will be held at Faulkner Hall on Saturday and Sunday.
It opens on Saturday morning with 50th anniversary tours at Graymont. Founded in 1948, Graymont is a highly reliable and trusted global leader in essential calcium-based solutions.
Essential to a wide range of industrial, construction, and agricultural markets and applications, Graymont's calcium-based solutions and products support air and water purification, critical minerals, and production of materials such as paper, glass, steel, and assorted other metals.
If you want to be on the tour, you must wear closed toe shoes.
Back at Faulkner Hall, will be a canteen all day.
"Games for all ages throughout the day. We also have beer gardens," said Joan Springer. "We will be having a supper from 5:00 to 7:00. From 7:00 to 10:00, we will have live music in the hall. Then after that, we will have a great fireworks show. It's going to be a fantastic day."
To give you an idea of how busy Joan expects to be, more than 300 people have already purchased tickets for the whole hog BBQ supper. It's only $10 for an adult, $5 for ages 6 to 12, and 5 and under eat for free. Country Pride is the band that will perform.
If you're interested in a dinner ticket, call Joan at 449-2164. On Sunday, there will be a free breakfast at the Steep Rock Pavilion from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
After that, you're asked to bring your own chair for Cowboy church at 11:00 a.m. So whether you're five years old or 85, there's something for everyone. Springer says the door is wide open for all. It's all about socializing.
"It's trying to bring people back to the homestead here, that's what we're trying to do," ended Springer. "Many of them are away. It gives them a chance to come back and communicate. Have some fun and mingle."
Games, bouncy castles, beer gardens, live music, and a great firework show.
The Steep Rock Community Club's community celebration has something for everyone this weekend.
UPDATE: The Whole Hog Supper starting at 5:00 PM is sold out. Springer thanks supporters for helping to sell out the dinner.
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10 years of going strong.
Now it's time to turn up the heat even more for the 11th year. Grandview will be the hot-bed in the Parkland this weekend as the Mud Bog returns for its 11th year.
As Alia Marcinkow says, the Mud Bog continues to grow every year, and that won't change this weekend.
"Last year we saw some of the biggest cars and trucks we've ever seen," said Marcinkow. "This year, they keep saying they're going to bring their friends. I think this year is going to be even bigger and better."
The four-day event opens on Thursday night at 6:00. It's the Classic Car Night at Grand Vieux Liquor Company until 11:00 p.m. It features the return of the Taco Team.
"There's going to be tacos for sale. Three of them for $10, while quantities last," she added. "Cool cars to check out. It's a chance for everyone to get together, a meet and greet, and get the weekend going."
On Friday, the Alec Woolston Morning Show hits the road. He'll host his show at Anderson Place from 7:00 to 11:00. Parkway Co-op is then hosting a fundraising BBQ at Anderson Place from 11:00 to 1:00.
"With the proceeds going to the Gilbert Plains Country Club. That's great because they were hit hard by the flood," continued Marcinkow. "It's great to see our community helping community, a ton of people golf there. Then we have a parade at 3:00, the quad pull, and the burnout competition."
From 4:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. on Friday, there's party in the park and perogy night at Wilson Park. The Ikons of Rock, Leather and Lace hit the homecoming stage for a live show from 10:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
The fun continues into Saturday with the 5k fun run from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. There's a pancake breakfast at the GACC's back entrance, and a chainsaw carving showcase gets underway at 8:00 a.m. Starting at noon, it's mud bog time.
"We have kids games going on at that time. The mud bog. It's the pinnacle of the weekend," added Marcinkow. "Registration for the mud bog starts at 10:00 a.m. There's two registrations. Quads and trucks in two separate places, just like last year."
On Saturday night at 10:45, the sky will light up with fireworks. Sunday features another full day of events. This includes the old tyme picnic class car "show n' shine" and the vintage sled showcase. The bone rattler pedal pull is from 11:30 to 2:00 on Sunday and there's free swimming from 12:00 to 6:00.
You can also catch the Grandview Lakers classic baseball game from 1:30 to 4:00 at Wilson Park. It's a weekend full of laughs, fun, stories to remember, and some muddy fun.
Whether you're five or 85, Marcinkow says come one, come all.
"Young and old are welcome. There is something for everyone," she ended. "We have bouncy castles, a bull riding machine. Great fantastic vehicles going through the mud. Everyone is welcome."
For an entire schedule, head here. Ticket prices are here.
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There will be no more swings taken at the Gilbert Plains Country Club this season.
After last month's devastating flood, the board of directors have made the difficult decision to close the golf course for the remainder of the season.
Due to ongoing conditions, repairs, and construction, the board of directors believe this is the most responsible course of action.
"Yeah, it's obviously upsetting. No one wants the season to go like this," said Scott McCallum, general manager. "Mother Nature isn't your friend sometimes. Like I've told other people, life on the lake or river, and sometimes things like this happen.
When it comes to concerns about the course and potential refunds, they're working with the insurance provider to finalize details.
Further information regarding refunds and next steps will be communicated as soon as they are available.
"At this time, the Board will continue to focus on planning for the future, with the goal of ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of the Gilbert Plains Country Club," ended the release. "As information becomes available, the board will continue to provide details to members and the community."
To help during this challenging time, the Dauphin Kings have lent their 50/50 license to the Country Club. Gilbert Plains' insurance deductible is $100,000. As of publishing, the pot is already more than $15,000. You can get 50/50 tickets here.
"Sure is incredible," said McCallum. "The 50/50 is taking on a life of its own. We still have another 25 days for that, so the pot is going to be fantastic."
Then you talk about the business community. Crysler Jamieson started the Parkland Business Challenge. The challenge is simple. He wants local businesses to help the cause and donate. He himself donated $500.
Since the challenge began, the business community has stepped up in a big way. Thousands of dollars have been donated, including $1,000.00 from the Gilbert Plains Co-op Agro Centre.
"It's been remarkable the people that have donated," said McCallum. "Some are donating what they can. We are so thankful for every donation that has come in."
Ryan Rauliuk is also stepping up. He was gearing up to host his Ukrainian tournament later this month in Gilbert Plains. Of course, that event has been cancelled.
So instead of the tournament, Rauliuk is putting his focus on hosting a fundraiser on Saturday, August 29 in Gilbert Plains. More details on that event are to come in the coming days.
While thanking everyone for their support over the past month, Scott also wants to thank Superintendent Don and his crew. There is a long road to recovery, but Scott sees light at the end of the tunnel. The season is over for this summer, but the GPCC will be back.
"They keep a positive attitude and keep coming to ring the bell," ended McCallum. "I'm not too worried about that end of things. I know they're going to do a great job."
If you're a member of the GPCC, don't forget that several local courses are offering discounts. The Neepawa and Minnedosa Golf and Country Clubs are offering 50% off green fees.
The Swan River Golf and Country Club is offering five free rounds in August for GPCC members.
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If you're a classic car enthusiast, Oakburn is the place to be on Saturday.
The Yellowhead Leisure Committee presents their Vintage Wheels, Timeless Appeals classic car show on Main Street. The event is from 5:00 to 7:00.
Chantelle Schwaluk says last year's first annual event went off without a hitch, despite some rain. There were 20 vehicles.
"I think the highlight was seeing the kids interact with the drivers," said Schwaluk. "Those who had restored their vehicles. Watching people learn about our history. It was an incredible day and we're looking forward to year two."
There is no admission cost. More than 100 people attended the show last year.
It's an epic night of vintage-vehicle thrills and you can be a part of it.
"You'll get to visit with your neighbours, friends, and families," added Schwaluk. "We've got Flippin' Dogs coming out to cook some hot dogs. We've got bouncy castles going up. It's all-around a fantastic outdoor event for the summer."
Now, looking at vintage cars is one thing. Showing off yours is another. So, if you have a vintage vehicle worthy of being shown off, head to Main Street in Oakburn on Saturday night and wow the crowd. To register ahead of time, call or text Chantelle at 204-365-6240.
Even if it's a last-minute thing and you don't register, Chantelle says you're still more than welcome to show off your ride.
For her, that's what makes this a magical night. Showing off vintage vehicles in front of a great crowd.
"I have a son who is almost 15 and he's a very big car enthusiast," ended Schwaluk. "So to see people walking around and enjoying it. Interacting with the drivers, sitting in the cars, and seeing how things have changed over time. It's all excellent."
It's a night of vintage wheels on Saturday night from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Main Street in Oakburn.
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On July 28 at 8:00 p.m., the Ste. Rose RCMP pulled over a 32-year-old man who was travelling well above the posted speed limit.
Officers pulled over the driver on Highway 68, when he was caught travelling at 149 km/h in a 100 km/h zone. The driver, who is not to consume alcohol under a court order, gave two breath samples, and failed both.
Officers then found and seized unstamped tobacco inside the truck.
The driver, from the RM of St. Andrews, had his driver's license suspended for 90 days. He received tickets totalling nearly $3,284. This includes $692 for speeding and $2,542 for possessing unmarked tobacco.
His vehicle was towed from the scene and impounded for the next 30 days.
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If you're from the Parkland, there's a pretty good chance you've heard of Garton's Auction Service, whether you've bought or sold equipment through them, or just hearing about them in passing.
After building up the business for 34 years, Larry Garton, Owner of Garton's Auction Service, is looking for someone to take over, and continue the upward trajectory.
"I've been running this business for 34 years, I started out on my own, I didn't take over from another company or anything, so I've built the business up myself, to a point now where I feel it's time for somebody else to step in, take over, there's a ton of potential to build this business from where we're at...we're still at the low end of commission rates, we're still at the low end of buyer's premiums, and we have never went out begging for equipment or anything, it's what's come to us, and I think there's a real opportunity for someone to take over at this stage and build the business to where it should be," said Garton.
Garton said recent sales have shown the business is still going strong. They recently wrapped up their large equipment consignment auction, which Garton said saw slightly lower numbers because of flood damages, but overall went very well.
"Overall it was still a fairly good strong sale, and we certainly saw that with the Bernat sale last week as well, that equipment is still selling strong," said Garton.
What's next for Larry Garton? A soft retirement, checking things off his list, and taking it a bit easier. But there's a lot he'll bring with him from his 34 years building up Garton's Auction Service, from positive experiences with customers, to building lasting relationships with staff. Garton wants to give thanks to everyone.
"All of our customers, both buyers, sellers, and certainly our staff for the years of good memories, and we hope to continue on, that somebody will take it over and make some more memories with people," said Garton.
Serious inquirers are able to take a look at Garton's Auction Service's finances over the years, provided they sign a non-disclosure agreement. For more details about the sale of Garton's Auction Service, click here to visit their website.
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- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
