Summer vacation is set to begin and if you’re in town on Monday, join in Thompson’s Canada Day celebrations.

They start with the free community pancake breakfast at 9:30 in the TRCC, followed by a day packed with other great family activities.

Drop in to enjoy Culture Fusion organized by the Thompson Neighborhood Renewal Corporation.  It features hourly entertainment plus a bike parade for kids starting at 12:30.

Mayor Colleen Smook has more details.

“There’s food and craft vendors, free boat rides on the Burntwood provided by Howling Wolf Tours, there is going to be mini putt, and a bouncy house will be set up. Events will run from 9:30 to 5:30pm and there will be fireworks at about 11pm that night.”

For the complete schedule of Canada Day events go to thompson.ca.

Bringing home a new baby comes with mixed emotions.

Excitement for the new addition to the family and anxiety over what to do next.

Jennifer Whalen, a Mental Health Promotion Specialist for the Northern Health Region, talks here about something new mothers should be aware of.

“It is very common to have something called the baby blues and usually that is early on, like one, two or three days after a baby is born. Most women do experience the baby blues, they say anywhere from 75 to 85 percent of more.”

Whalen warns that if these feelings last longer than a few weeks, you may be experiencing post-partum depression.

In that case, she encourages moms to connect with their family doctor, nurse-practitioner, nursing station, their local hospital or Q-Docs.

There are also Mental health resources available throughout the Northern Health Region.

On June 23, 2024, at approximately 7:45 am, Little Grand Rapids RCMP, received a report of a possible drowning that occurred the night before on Family Lake.

It was reported that three males were on the lake, returning to the community of Little Grand Rapids, when their boat broke down. While they were trying to fix the motor, one of the males, a 50-year-old, fell into the water and didn’t resurface. One of the males jumped into the water to try and pull the drowning male to safety but was not able to.

The males rowed back to the community to get help. Community members and band Constables returned to the area and located the male deceased in the water.

RCMP were advised and attended to the location and recovered the body. An autopsy was performed confirming the male drowned.

With Canada Day celebrations come one of the big highlights - the fireworks.

Unfortunately every year, eye injuries occur due to mishandled fireworks, debris from fireworks, or fireworks detonating unexpectedly.

Dr. Mona Dagher, President of the Canadian Ophthalmological Society, has more.

“In Canada, almost twenty percent of injuries caused by fireworks involve the eyes and some of those actually result in severe damage to the eyes, sometimes leading to a permanent loss of vision. Nearly a third of all firework related injuries occur around Canada Day.”

Dagher added that anyone handling fireworks should be wearing eye protection and spectators should be at least 500 feet away from the launch site.

Hear more about summer eye safety, including how to protect your eyes from UV rays. Catch Thompson Today at 12:40 and 5:10 this afternoon.

Miners and non-miners alike pitted their skills and endurance against one another Saturday at the 51st National King Miner contest. 

The contest was made up of 11 different events which were timed to determine the winners. 

The coveted title of King Miner 2024 was awarded to Tyrell Hall. First runner up was Josh Forrest.  Frank Bushby was second runner up and third runner up was Dave Lasaga.

The rookie prize also went to Lasaga.

USW Local 6166 President, Warren Luky, (lou-key) said at the awards ceremony on Sunday, that the organizers of the National King Miner Competition will be looking for a permanent site for their future events.    

He also added they are looking to make some changes to attract more competitors. 

On June 20, 2024, as part of an ongoing investigation, Thompson RCMP General Investigative Section with the assistance of Thompson RCMP detachment, executed a search warrant at an apartment on Nickel Drive, in Thompson.

RCMP seized approximately 15 grams of crack cocaine, Canadian currency and drug paraphernalia.

Two adult males were arrested at the scene.

A 43-year-old male from Thompson is facing a charge of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking, and was released with an upcoming court date.

Christopher Manning, 39, of Ontario, has been charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime and Failing to Comply x2. He was also WANTED on two warrants from other Provinces. He was remanded into custody.

Thompson RCMP continue to investigate.

The federal government’s increase to the capital gains inclusion rate is set to increase tomorrow.

Jasmin Guennette, Vice President of National Affairs for the Canadian Federation of Independent business explains here what that means.

“For example, let’s say you bought a piece of land a few years ago and you are selling your land, the difference between what you paid for and what you are selling the land for is considered capital gains. Right now, you would be taxed on half of the profit that you would make from that sale.”

Currently, the rate which capital gains is taxed is 50 per cent. That is set to rise to almost 67 per cent.

The CFIB is encouraging the government to scrap the increase but, in the meantime, advises business owners to check with their accountants and tax specialists.

The CFIB also has a full page dedicated to this topic on their website.

Go to cfib.ca to learn more and tune in to Thompson Today this afternoon at 12:40 and 5:10.

On June 21, 2024, at approximately 2:10 am, Chemawawin RCMP responded to a report of a deceased female located in an open area in the community of Easterville.

Officers attended to the location and discovered a 16-year-old female with obvious injuries who was pronounced deceased.

Her death is being investigated as a homicide.

RCMP have arrested a male in relation to this homicide who remains in police custody at this time.
 

Chemawawin RCMP, along with RCMP Major Crimes Services and Forensic Identification Services, continue to investigate.

On City Beat yesterday, Mayor Colleen Smook shared some details of what to watch out for during the Nickel Days weekend.

The Lions Parade has a different route this year, starting at the Corner of Station Road and Princeton Drive, heading south to Thompson Drive, where it will travel past the hospital and to the entrance at UCN.

Smook has a safety tip regarding the parade.

“There is no throwing candy off the floats at all. You have to walk along and you can hand out your candy or juice boxes or whatever, but definitely nothing thrown off any of the floats.”

Smook encouraged those heading to the TRCC for Nickel Days to avoid driving there, if possible, as parking in the area is limited.

The full schedule of events for the weekend can be found on the Nickel Days facebook page.

National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations kicked off in Thompson this morning with the traditional sunrise ceremony at 4:45.

Other activities include a free pancake breakfast hosted at the Ma Mow We Tak Friendship Centre and another at the Keewatin Tribal Council at 23 Nickel Road. Both start (started) at 9.

KTC has tipi and medicine teachings, music and dancing, the best ribbon shirt and skirt contest, free food and more until 3:30.

At 4:30, celebrations sponsored by the Thompson Urban Aboriginal Strategy begin at McLean Park near City Hall.

Again, there will be entertainment, contests, free food and family activities.

All these celebrations are free and family-friendly.

Canada Day is a time to celebrate the cultures that make up our country.  

Our local celebrations will aim to do just that with Culture Fusion, a new addition to the Canada Day lineup.

Oswald Sawh, Executive Director of the Thompson Neighborhood Renewal Corporation explains what it is.

“Culture Fusion is actually a combination of showcasing individual and cultural dances or some form of entertainment. It also has a component where we will have booths at the arena that will showcase different foods, different arts from the various cultural groups that we have here in Thompson.”

Sawh says Culture Fusion was inspired by the mini-Folkorama performances in years past.  
If your cultural group wishes to participate in the Canada Day event, contact the TNRC at 204-677-0760 or email admin AT tnrc DOT ca.

Learn more by tuning in to Thompson Today at 12:40 and 5:10 this afternoon.

On June 11, 2024, Nelson House RCMP received information that two male youths were in possession of a loaded firearm and making threats towards community members. The firearm in question was an SR-410 Revolver Shotgun. Photos of the firearm were being shared on social media.

The investigation led to the June 13 execution of a Public Safety Warrant at a residence located on McDonald Road in Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation.

As a result of the search, officers seized the firearm as well as a can of bear mace.

Nelson House RCMP continue to investigate.

On June 14, 2024, as a result of an ongoing investigation into drug trafficking within the City of Thompson, RCMP officers with the Thompson General Investigative Section (GIS), along with assistance from Thompson Detachment officers, executed a search warrant at a residence located on Greenway Crescent.

The search of the property led to the seizure of approximately $8,000 in cash, over 250 grams of crack cocaine, a 9mm handgun and other drug-related paraphernalia.

RCMP have charged Logan Evans, 28, Kelton Thomas, 22, both of Winnipeg, along with Midnight Hamilton, 18, Creedance Swartz, 28, Kash Morris, 18, all from Thompson, with multiple offences including Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime and numerous firearms-related offences. They were remanded into custody.

Two other male individuals (22,18), both from Winnipeg, were later released from custody for a court appearance scheduled for September 27, 2024, in Thompson.

Thompson RCMP continue to investigate.

On June 11, 2024, at approximately 9:15 pm, RCMP responded to a disturbance at the hospital in The Pas. It was reported a male was being aggressive with staff and punching the glass to the admitting room.

Officers immediately attended and were advised the male had left. An officer located the male on 2nd Street, and when the suspect saw police he started running.

After a brief foot pursuit, the male was arrested. He refused to provide his name to officers. A search of the male resulted in the seizure of cash, knife, illicit cannabis, cocaine and drug paraphernalia.

Police Dog Services attended to do a search of the area as officers believed the male had discarded items as he was fleeing.

Police Service Dog, Phlex, searched the area and recovered two stashes of Canadian currency totaling over $17,000.00.

Alpha Matthews, 21, has been charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime, Possession of a Weapon for Dangerous Purpose, Resist/Obstruct a Peace Officer x2 and Mischief.

He was remanded into custody.

Council unanimously approved the City of Thompson 2024 Financial Plan at a June 13 special meeting, following a public hearing.

The budget for 2024 is $41.6 million.

The City of Thompson property tax mill rate increased 1.3% from 2023, rising to 26.49 mills. The School District
of Mystery Lake property tax mill rate is 20.861, up 3.6%. The combined residential mill rate is 47.351, up 2.3%
from last year.

A home valued at $175,000 will be assessed $2,907 in net taxes after the Education Property Tax Credit in
2024, up $55 from last year.

Residential tax bills also include a special service levy to cover the costs of repairing water, sewer and storm
service line breaks on residential properties. In 2024, the special service levy amount is $91.91, down from
$96.21 in 2023.

The commercial mill rate also includes the Provincial Education Support Levy of 8.129 mills, for a total rate of
55.48 mills, up 1.93% from 2023. A commercial property with an assessed value of $1 million would pay
$34,179 in net tax after the Education Tax rebate, $639 more than last year.

The City of Thompson business tax remains at 3.99%, the same as in 2023.

City of Thompson capital spending totals $40.6 million this year. This includes work on the new Thompson
Regional Aquatic Centre and on multi-year road and water/wastewater main renewal projects. Nearly $33
million of capital spending comes from federal and provincial grants, with $5.6 million from City of Thompson
reserves and about $2.1 million from other sources, including general revenues and a $2 million donation from
Vale for construction of the new pool.

Property tax bills are mailed out in the summer and the payment deadline is October 1.

Chat GPT and Google Gemini are just two examples of Artificial Intelligence tools called large language models.

You can determine what type of AI tools you require  depending if you need broad applications for general-purpose use or if you have specific tasks like writing, coding, or design.

David Gerhard, Head of the Computer Science Department at the University of Manitoba says these tools, while providing time-saving and computational features, have their limits.

“They don’t know the difference between the real world and the fantasy world, they don’t know the difference between something that they have made up and something that’s real and that is kind of a problem. We have come to expect our computer systems to understand what truth and accuracy is because that is sort of why we built computers in the first place. So the fact that these things don’t understand truth means that they get things wrong all the time and that’s a real pitfall.”

Gerhard says that’s why it’s important for there to be what is called “a human in the loop” - a person who will evaluate the output of the AI and then make an informed and responsible decision based on that output.

For more on artificial intelligence, its applications and challenges, tune in to Thompson Today at 12:40 and 5:10 this afternoon.

Tomorrow is Home Visitor day in Manitoba.

In the Northern Health Region, the Family First Home Visitors program provides a number of services to families.

Here, Jen Whalen with the NHR, explains some of their duties.

“The program supports new parents or new families and provides different support for either parenting practises like ensuring moms and babies have a secure attachment, it ensures safety of children, baby care in terms of nutrition and different care for the baby and their physical needs.”

Whalen added the program can help parents as they guide their children’s healthy physical, social and emotional development.

The visitors also support the uniqueness of each family and the values they live by.

Whalen said the main hubs of Thompson, Flin Flon and The Pas each have Home Visitors who, in turn, travel to outlying areas.

On June 9, 2024, at approximately 11:38 am, The Pas RCMP received a report of a missing 30-year-old male from Grand Rapids, Manitoba.

Reginald Maxwell Cook was last seen on the evening of June 4, 2024, at a residence on Ross Avenue in The Pas, Manitoba.

Police and family are concerned for his well-being.

He is described as 5’9” tall, 120 lbs, with brown hair and hazel eyes. He was last seen wearing a black shirt and black pants.

If you have information on his whereabouts, please call The Pas RCMP at 204-627-6204, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or secure tip online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com.

Residents in the Burntwood Trailer Court area are already experiencing a downside to the warmer weather.

Drivers of ATVs, mini-bikes and side-by-sides have been up and down Mid Road in the early morning and late at night, disturbing residents with the noise.

On City Beat Thursday, Mayor Colleen Smook said the city would ask RCMP to step up patrols around parks and school yards to dissuade anyone from using those areas for riding their off-road vehicles.

She also provided details about the city noise by-law.

“The noise by-law restricts construction, renovation, activities and even the use of noisy machinery like lawnmowers and such, prior to 7am and after 10pm.”  

Smook added that residents will likely be hearing loud noise coming from pile driving taking place around the TRCC.

It’s part of the construction for the foundation of the new Aquatic Centre.

On June 7, 2024, at 6:25 am, Moose Lake RCMP responded to a report of an unresponsive male located inside a residence on Sinclair Street in Mosakahiken Cree Nation.

Norway House RCMP have worked continuously over the last several days to locate and arrest the outstanding suspects.

Bryce Ettawacappo, 35; Alicia Ettawacappo, 32; Chad Keeper, 20; Shanita Ettawacappo, 18; and Drake Balfour, 18, have all been arrested and charged with a variety of offences related to the incident on June 1, 2024. They are all remanded into custody.

RCMP continue to look for two suspects that investigation has determined were involved.

The victim remains in hospital.

On June 5, 2024, as part of an ongoing investigation, Nelson House RCMP obtained a search warrant for a residence in Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation.

As a result of the search, officers discovered approximately 50 grams of crack cocaine, assorted drug trafficking paraphernalia and, $2800 in cash.

Two male youth are charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking and have been released on conditions.

The investigation continues.

On June 3, 2024, at 7:30 pm, Gypsumville RCMP responded to a report of found human remains on a property located off of Highway 6 in the RM of Grahamdale.

With the assistance of RCMP Major Crime Services, Forensic Identification Services, Police Dog Services, Search and Rescue and a Forensic Anthropology team, investigators are currently on site conducting a search of the area.

The found remains appear to be those of an infant child.

The identity of the remains is unknown at this time.

RCMP continue to investigate.

Yesterday, at their campuses in The Pas and Thompson, the University College of the North  introduced "Pâkosêthimowin" as the name for their newest sculptures.

Pâkosêthimowin is Cree and translates to "Hopes & Dreams."

UCN’s council of elders provided the Cree translation.

The sculptures, seven stainless steel spires, are each engraved with one of the seven sacred teachings, and provide a place for people to reflect individually or come together in unity.

They highlight UCN’s focus on reconciliation, respect for diversity, and the pursuit of educational opportunities.

Mabel Bignell, UCN Elder, said the Seven Sacred Teachings displayed on each sculpture will help keep these teachings alive now and for the generations that follow.

She added that - quote - “by keeping these values in our daily lives, we’re passing on a legacy of strength and virtue. It's more than just following a set of rules. It's about uplifting and supporting one another.”

The Wellbriety Centre, which is housed in the Polaris 5 building on the former UCN campus on Princeton Drive, is looking to expand its services.

Danielle Jenner, a coordinator with the Centre, shares some of their future plans.

“Our goal is to move in the next couple of years to Polaris 4 which is the building behind our building. We have funding right now in trust for a IPDA unit which is the Intoxicated Persons Detention Act. It’ll be more of a wrap around service, just a place for people to lay their head and then offer case work support while they are there.”

Jenner added Building 6 will be developed for transitional housing and programming will provide life-skills development and get people ready for when they leave the facility to go out on their own.

She also said the Wellbriety Centre has just received approval to use a mini-lodge already on site for cultural practices, and they plan to do outreach with individuals on the street and in encampments around the city.

For more on the Wellbriety Centre, how it operates and its future plans, catch Thompson Today this afternoon at 12:40 and 5:10.

The Northern Health Region is promoting the Buddy Up Program again this June.

Bruce Krentz, Health Promotions Coordinator with the NHR, explains what the program is.

“June is Buddy Up month and what it is, it’s a program that promotes authentic conversations between men and their buddies to raise awareness for men’s issues, specifically suicide. Turns out that men have a suicide rate three times higher then women.”

There are a number of factors that contribute to this alarming statistic.

Typically, men have been socialized to be strong, stoic and self-reliant, and taught that showing emotion is a sign of weakness, as is asking for help.

Further, men are under-served by our traditional health and social service sectors.

The Buddy Up Program encourages men to reach out to their male friends to check in and start a conversation about any changes they have noticed that concern them.

For more on the program go to buddyup.ca.

Last week, Arctic Gateway Group, announced the completion of the first new building at the Port of Churchill in decades.

The new domed building will store new equipment for the Port, including cargo container handlers, skid feeders, expansion hoppers, loaders and transfer conveyers.

Over 225 cars of zinc concentrate from Hudbay Minerals will be arriving over the next couple months, set for export this August.

In addition to the Port improvements, there will be notable capital upgrades along the Hudson Bay rail line.

This includes 125-thousand rail tie replacements, 800-thousand feet of resurfacing, several crossing rehabilitations, turnout replacements and various bridge improvements.

According to Mike Spence, AGG Chairperson, a second freight train per week is being added this year, as well.

This Friday through Sunday, the Manitoba government is inviting Manitobans to visit a provincial park for free.

Anglers can also fish without a fishing licence province-wide this weekend, except in national parks where a federal licence is still required.

All other angling regulations, including possession limits and size restrictions, still apply as outlined in the 2024 Manitoba Anglers’ Guide which is available at manitobafisheries.com.

Vehicle permits will also not be required to visit provincial parks this weekend, but regular camping fees still apply at provincial campgrounds.

Park visitors are also encouraged to check manitobaparks.com  for the latest provincial park conditions as there may be temporary closures or advisories.

Visitors should also check for the latest fire restrictions and remember to only make fires in approved fire pits.

The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) is investigating a motor vehicle collision that took place on June 1, outside the city of Thompson.

On June 1, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) notified the IIU of an incident that occurred around 3:45 a.m. that same day.

According to the notification, RCMP were transporting an adult male on Provincial Trunk Highway 280 and approximately 21 kilometres from the city of Thompson, the police vehicle entered the ditch. Emergency medical services responded and the male was transported to the hospital for treatment of what were believed to be minor injuries. At the hospital, fractures to the male’s vertebrae were discovered and he was transported to Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg for surgery. The RCMP notified the IIU on June 3, to provide an update on the male’s injuries.

Given the male suffered two broken vertebrae, this meets the definition of a serious injury as defined by regulation. The IIU is mandated to investigate.

Witnesses or other individuals who have information or video footage that may assist this investigation are asked to contact the IIU toll-free at 1-844-667-6060.

The investigation is ongoing, and no further details will be provided at this time.

Bike pilots, yard work helpers, game teachers.

That’s the job description some students will have this summer when working for the Thompson Seniors Community Resource Council.

If you enjoy the fresh air and spending time with elders and seniors, this might be your perfect job.

Penny Byer, Coordinator with the Council, shares some details about being a bike pilot.

“It’s not just peddling a bike; they have to know how to use electric assist, they have to know how to maintain and look after the bike and also to safely load the people onto the bike and offload as well.”

Byer says training on the bikes, first aid, and more will be provided to the successful candidates.

If you’re interested, reach out to her at 204-677-0987 before Friday.

For more on Thompson Seniors Community Resource Council events and activities, catch Thompson Today at 12:40 and 5:10 this afternoon.

On June 1, 2024, at approximately 6:55 am, Norway House RCMP were notified of a severely injured 34-year-old female located outside in Kinosao Sipi Cree Nation. She was being taken to the hospital. Officers attended the hospital and learned that the female had been held against her will and assaulted repeatedly for several days.

The victim was transported to Winnipeg hospital with life-altering injuries, and she remains in hospital at this time.

At approximately 9:20 am, officers attended a residence where the incident was suspected to have taken place. The suspects were not present, but a firearm and drug paraphernalia were located. Officers located two of the suspects at another residence in the community, and they were arrested.

Russel York, 31, and Stephanie Anderson-Paupanekis, 32, are charged with Aggravated Assault, Forcible Confinement, Unsafe Storage of Firearms, and Unauthorized Possession of Firearms. They are both remanded in custody. Police continue to look for five remaining suspects involved in the incident.

The victim and suspects are known to each other, and police believe this was a targeted attack.

If you have information, please call Norway House RCMP at 204-359-4955, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or secure tip online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com.

The Committee of the Whole meeting of City Council takes place tonight starting at 7 pm in council chambers.

For those who attend council meetings in person or watch on youtube, please note that the meetings next Monday  and June 24th are being moved from Monday to Tuesday for both those weeks.

That’s because quorum won’t be reached either Monday as council members  will be attending the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Conference and Association of Manitoba Municipalities Northern June District Meetings.

Also, a reminder that street sweeping will be taking place in the Riverside area starting today, weather permitting.

Be careful around workers and equipment, and expect some reduced visibility due to blowing dust.