Residents planning to use the TRCC Fitness Centre this weekend will need to make alternate arrangements.

The City of Thompson says the Fitness Centre will be closed from Friday, June 19 through Sunday, June 21 while Nickel Days festivities take place.

To account for the closure, current Fitness Centre memberships will have their expiry dates extended by three days.

Community leaders gathered Wednesday in Thompson to recognize the city’s mining history ahead of this year’s Nickel Days celebrations.

The President’s Reception featured remarks from Nickel Days President Jennifer Thackeray, Mayor Colleen Smook, United Steelworkers Local 6166 President Warren Luky, and Stacey Kennedy, Head of Vale Manitoba Operations.

USW Local 6166 honoured Terry Royal as this year’s honorary King Miner, while Pete Campbell was named honorary Driller.

Speakers reflected on the role mining has played in Thompson’s history, while celebrating the workers, families, and community members who continue to support that legacy.

New Crime Suppression Units were among the key topics discussed as council reviewed the latest RCMP report this week.

The report included updates on crime statistics, policing initiatives, and preparations for Nickel Days.

Mayor Colleen Smook says the arrival of the first two Crime Suppression Units stood out as a significant milestone for the community.

Smook says the city has been advocating for the units for several years and is encouraged by the increased RCMP presence and patrols aimed at deterring unwanted activity in the downtown area.

The City of Thompson is looking ahead to ensure its fire department has the equipment it needs for years to come.

At this week’s Committee of the Whole meeting, council received a presentation on the condition and lifespan of several fire apparatuses currently in service.

Mayor Colleen Smook says the discussion focused on making sure the city is prepared for future replacement costs.

Smook says the presentation was intended to get replacement planning on council’s radar, noting it can take more than a year for a new fire truck to be delivered once ordered.

While June 21st was first recognized as National Aboriginal Day in 1996, and is now known as National Indigenous Peoples Day, it is a day that has been celebrated long before now.

Elder Philip Michel explains here.

As Northern Manitoba heads into summer, the Northern Health Region is reminding residents to stay safe while enjoying the warmer weather and community celebrations.

Health Promotions Coordinator Bruce Krentz says National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21 is an important opportunity to celebrate Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contributions while bringing people together across the community.

Krentz also reminds residents to use insect repellent, wear lifejackets when on the water, and never leave children unattended in vehicles during hot weather.

Men’s Health Week is underway across Canada, and the Northern Health Region is encouraging men and boys to take small steps toward improving both their physical and mental well-being.

Health Promotions Coordinator Bruce Krentz says the week is designed to raise awareness about preventable health issues while encouraging people to seek support when they need it.

Krentz says men experience suicide at a significantly higher rate than women and encourages people to check in on friends, start conversations, and take advantage of resources such as Buddy Up, Kids Help Phone, and the 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline.

The Manitoba government has announced a new agreement aimed at expanding high-speed internet access across northern Manitoba.

The province says Manitoba Hydro will provide Valley Fiber access to two unused strands of its fibre-optic network for up to 20 years, helping the company expand broadband service to underserved communities.

According to the province, the agreement will allow Valley Fiber to fulfill commitments under the federal Universal Broadband Fund and improve or provide service to more than 3,500 households across 11 northern communities.

Innovation and New Technology Minister Mike Moroz says reliable internet is essential for education, health care, business and everyday life, adding that many northern communities have waited too long for dependable service.

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak is urging the federal government to make dedicated investments in northern First Nations as part of Canada’s National Food Security Strategy.

In a statement released Monday, MKO said it welcomes the federal government’s recognition of food security as a national priority but remains concerned that northern First Nations were not adequately reflected in the strategy.

The organization says factors such as remoteness, higher food costs, limited infrastructure and reliance on southern supply chains contribute to food insecurity rates that are nearly 46 per cent higher than the provincial average in northern First Nations communities.

MKO also argues the strategy’s dedicated northern food security funding—$100 million from a broader $750 million fund for rural and northern communities—is not enough to address the scale of the challenges facing northern Manitoba.

Grand Chief Garrison Settee says northern First Nations families continue to pay more for food while having fewer nutritious options available, adding that meaningful investment is needed to ensure no family goes hungry.

Residents across Manitoba may notice a change in appearance when they see RCMP officers on patrol.

The RCMP says new navy-blue uniform shirts are being rolled out across the province.

The shirts are made with modern, performance-driven materials designed to help officers work more comfortably and safely.

During the transition period, Manitobans may see officers wearing either the new navy shirts or the traditional grey shirts.

 The RCMP says both remain official uniforms until the grey shirts are fully phased out.

The force is also reminding the public that anyone unsure about an officer’s identity can ask to see identification or contact their local detachment’s non-emergency line.

In an emergency, residents should continue to call 911.

The Thompson RCMP is launching a new Crime Suppression Unit aimed at tackling crime in areas of the city experiencing higher levels of criminal activity.

Two dedicated officers began working as part of the unit this week, with two more officers expected to join next month.

 The RCMP says the team will work alongside the City of Thompson’s Community Safety Officers to increase visibility, strengthen partnerships, and support community safety efforts.

According to the RCMP, the unit will focus on proactive patrols in key areas, compliance checks on individuals subject to court-ordered conditions, and locating people with outstanding warrants.

Police say the initiative is designed to take a proactive approach to crime prevention and help keep Thompson safe.

Thompson RCMP are also reminding residents about another public safety tool now available in the community.

Rave Mobile Safety is a notification system that sends important public safety alerts directly by text, email, or phone call.

Those alerts can include missing person information, public safety advisories, traffic or road alerts, requests for public assistance, and crime prevention messaging.

RCMP say the system is voluntary and designed to help keep residents informed.

With the school year coming to an end, the City of Thompson is reminding families about the importance of keeping children active and engaged throughout the summer months.

Event Coordinator Darlene Dick says camps, recreation programs, and community activities can help children stay connected, build confidence, and maintain healthy routines while school is out.

Dick says summer programming can give kids a healthy routine while school is out, while also giving families another way to keep children busy in a safe and positive environment.

For more information about summer camps or to register, contact the TRCC at 204-677-7952.

The University College of the North is taking on a major international leadership role after being selected to lead a new Arctic waste management network.

UCN has been chosen as the lead institution for the newly established Thematic Network on Solid Waste Management in the Arctic through the University of the Arctic.

The network was officially approved by the UArctic General Assembly in May following a proposal led by UCN Associate Professor Dr. Anderson Assuah.

The network aims to bring together communities, organizations, and researchers to tackle waste management challenges across the Arctic while incorporating Indigenous knowledge and northern perspectives.

 UCN says the initiative will focus on collaboration, research, education, and practical solutions tailored to northern realities.

The new network launches with support from eleven partners, including universities and research institutions from Canada, Iceland, Denmark, Finland, and the Faroe Islands.

 Planned activities include community-based research projects, workshops, webinars, panel discussions, and land-based learning opportunities.

Dr. Anderson Assuah, who will lead the network, says Arctic communities face unique challenges managing waste because of factors such as remoteness, extreme weather, and infrastructure limitations.

The initiative is designed to help develop sustainable solutions while working directly with northern and Indigenous communities.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day may have passed, but health officials say the conversation about protecting older adults should continue year-round.

Northern Health Region and Shared Health used the day to remind Manitobans about the signs of elder abuse and the resources available to those who may need help.

Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial, and neglect, and often affects some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.

Officials are encouraging residents to stay connected with older family members, friends, and neighbours, and to speak up if they suspect someone may be experiencing abuse or mistreatment.

The road to Thompson’s next municipal election is officially underway.

The City of Thompson is reminding residents that prospective mayoral candidates can already register ahead of the October 28 municipal election.

Anyone planning to run for mayor must register with the Senior Election Official before they can begin fundraising, accepting contributions, or spending money on a campaign.

Registration for council and School District of Mystery Lake trustee candidates opens June 30.

The city says the election will determine Thompson’s next mayor, council, and school trustees, giving residents a chance to help shape the community’s future.

For more information on candidate registration and the upcoming municipal election, residents can visit the City of Thompson’s website or contact the Senior Election Official at 204-679-4848

With Thompson’s wildfire risk currently low and no active local fire concern at this time, the Lung Association of Manitoba says it is still a good time for residents to understand how wildfire smoke can affect their health if smoky conditions ever return.

Juliette Mucha, President and CEO of the Lung Association of Manitoba, says smoke exposure can affect anyone, but people with asthma, COPD, severe allergies, and other respiratory conditions may be especially vulnerable.

Juliette says residents can also visit the Manitoba Lung Association website to check the air quality health index in their community.

To hear more about wildfire smoke awareness, tune in to Thompson Today at 12:40 and 5:10.

Thompson families will have a few more ways to stay busy as summer gets rolling.

The city is pointing residents toward the return of summer programming for kids, along with a busy stretch of community celebrations and parades.

Communications Head Officer Ian Graham says there is plenty on the calendar.

The city’s three splash pads are also open for the season, giving families a free way to cool off as warmer weather settles in.

The University College of the North is stepping onto the global stage after being selected to lead a newly established international network focused on solid waste management in Arctic communities.

The University of the Arctic approved the new thematic network last month following a proposal presented by UCN’s Dr. Anderson Assuah.

 The initiative will bring together researchers, institutions, and communities from across the Arctic to address waste management challenges unique to northern regions.

The network will focus on collaboration, research, and community-driven solutions while incorporating Indigenous knowledge and northern perspectives into sustainable waste management practices.

Thompson RCMP say the final suspect wanted in connection with the homicide of a 21-year-old Leaf Rapids man has now been arrested.

Police say officers on patrol located and arrested a 17-year-old youth on Nickel Road just before midnight on June 11.

 The youth was wanted on a charge of second-degree murder in relation to the May 20 homicide.

The arrest follows the earlier apprehension of 19-year-old Eternity Chastelaine and 24-year-old Marshall Merasty on June 9.

Chastelaine faces a manslaughter charge, while Merasty is charged with second-degree murder.

RCMP say the 17-year-old was taken into custody and is scheduled to be remanded on a charge of second-degree murder.

The Manitoba government says vacancy rates for RCMP positions funded through the Provincial Police Service Agreement have been cut by more than half over the past three years.

Justice Minister Matt Wiebe says the province has made significant investments in rural policing, including an additional $8 million in this year’s budget.

 The funding supports front-line officers and specialized units focused on serious and organized crime.

According to the province, vacancy rates have fallen from nearly 22 per cent in October 2023 to less than 10 per cent in 2026.

Officials say 110 new officers joined the Manitoba RCMP during the 2025-26 fiscal year, helping improve staffing levels across the province.

Environment Canada is warning of a prolonged period of rain across northern Manitoba, including Thompson, beginning today and continuing through the weekend.

According to information shared by the City of Thompson, a stalled low-pressure system is expected to bring between 30 and 50 millimetres of rain by Friday morning, with another 20 to 30 millimetres possible by Sunday afternoon.

 Officials say rainfall amounts may vary, but residents should be prepared for water pooling on roads and in low-lying areas.

Drivers are encouraged to slow down during periods of heavy rain and avoid flooded sections of roadway.

Nickel Days is now just over a week away, and preparations are about to ramp up around the TRCC.

Communications Head Officer Ian Graham says the planning work is largely complete, with crews now preparing for the busiest stage of setup.
 

As rides, equipment, and midway staff begin arriving, residents can expect to see the Nickel Days site quickly take shape ahead of one of Thompson’s biggest weekends of the year.

The man wanted in connection with a violent robbery in the RM of Alexander has been found dead.

Powerview RCMP say officers were called to Sagkeeng First Nation Wednesday morning after a deceased man was located outside a residence.

Police have identified him as the same individual reported missing on June 8 and wanted in connection with a robbery that left a business employee injured.

The cause of death has not yet been determined and an autopsy is pending. RCMP say the investigation remains ongoing.

Sayisi Dene First Nation has declared a state of emergency as leadership works to address concerns surrounding drugs, addiction, and violence in the community.

Chief Kelly Ann Thom-Duck says the decision follows months of growing concern from residents and recent incidents that have heightened safety concerns for both community members and leadership.

The Boys and Girls Club and Pride North of 55 will host a free community BBQ on June 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club parking lot on Thompson Drive.

Organizers note the event was previously advertised for June 19, but the date has changed.

The BBQ is open to the public and aims to bring the community together to celebrate Pride Month and connect with one another.

Two suspects wanted in connection with a Thompson homicide investigation are now in custody.

RCMP say members of the Manitoba Integrated Violent Offender Apprehension Unit and Thompson General Investigation Section arrested 19-year-old Eternity Chastelaine and 24-year-old Marshall Merasty on June 9 without incident.

 Police say both remain in custody and are scheduled to appear in court.

The arrests are connected to the homicide of a 21-year-old man from Leaf Rapids following a stabbing reported in Thompson on May 20.

RCMP continue to investigate and are reminding anyone with information related to the case to contact Thompson RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

The CMHA Thompson office is encouraging residents to check out the Connections Clubhouse this summer, offering a variety of activities focused on learning, wellness, and social connection.

Education and Training Coordinator Iris Chan says the clubhouse at 43 Fox Bay hosts morning drop-ins and afternoon programming that can include budgeting sessions, job talks, community outings, and other opportunities to connect with others in a welcoming environment.

Chan says upcoming activities also include a participant-led guitar learning session on June 23rd.

The Connections Clubhouse is open Monday to Friday, with drop-ins from 9 to 11 a.m. and afternoon activities beginning at 1:30 p.m. Residents are encouraged to stop by and see what programs are available.

Thompson is getting ready to celebrate Pride with food, community, and a whole lot of support.

Iris Chan, Education and Training Coordinator with the Canadian Mental Health Association Manitoba and Winnipeg Thompson office, says the annual Pride Barbecue is happening June 19th from noon to 2 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club of Thompson.

Chan says the event is all about bringing people together, celebrating diversity, and showing support for members of the Pride community.

Organizers are still accepting donations of hot dogs, hamburgers, buns, chips, and soft drinks, and volunteers may also be needed to help serve food during the event.

City of Thompson Councillor Kathy Valentino has been confirmed as First Vice-President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities following the organization’s annual conference in Edmonton.

Valentino was first elected as FCM’s Third Vice-President in June 2024 before moving into the Second Vice-President position in 2025 following a vacancy on the board.

Her confirmation as First Vice-President marks the next step in that leadership progression.

The role gives Thompson a voice at one of Canada’s most influential municipal organizations, representing local governments from across the country on national issues affecting communities.

While recent wildfire activity in northern Manitoba has many residents paying close attention, the City of Thompson says the local situation is different from what the community faced during last year’s fire season.

Ian Graham, Communications Head Officer for the City of Thompson, says Thompson is in a better position right now, with fewer fires burning across Manitoba than there were at this point in 2025.

Graham notes that while there have been some fires and evacuations elsewhere in northern Manitoba, fewer active fires across the province mean more crews are available to respond when new fires start.

With warmer weather finally arriving across northern Manitoba, many people are preparing to spend more time at the lake, on the boat, or out fishing.

The Lifesaving Society of Manitoba says those first trips of the season are a good time to think about safety before heading out on the water, especially when visiting remote lakes and areas where help may not be close by.

Executive Director Lynn Stefenchuk says one of the biggest risks each year is people heading out before thinking through basic safety.

Stefenchuk says whether people are boating, fishing, or swimming, the main message is to prepare before getting near the water because emergencies can happen quickly and help may not always be nearby.

Despite a small increase to the City of Thompson’s municipal mill rate, many homeowners could actually see lower overall property tax bills in 2026.

According to information released by the City, the municipal portion of the mill rate increased by 1.16 per cent, from 27.532 mills in 2025 to 27.85 mills this year.

However, the Province of Manitoba also increased the Homeowners Affordability Tax Credit by $100, bringing it to $1,600.

The City says that for a primary residence assessed at the same value as last year, those changes could result in a slight decrease in overall property taxes.

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, Inc. (MKO) Grand Chief Garrison Settee announced MKO’s full support for the amendments to Bill C-9 that are set out in the Third Report of the Standing Senate Committee on Human Rights that were proposed by the Hon. Senator Karetak-Lindell and adopted and reported by the Committee.

“MKO fully supports the observations in the report of the Senate Standing Committee about ‘Indigenous Sacred Sites, Burial Sites, and Residential School Denialism’. MKO previously asked Justice Minister Sean Fraser several times to amend Bill C-9 to strengthen the Criminal Code to include protections for Indigenous religious and cultural sites, as well as for unmarked graves and burial sites associated with Indian Residential Schools.  MKO asked the Minister to ensure that Indigenous sacred sites and burial sites have real protections comparable to those afforded to other protected sites under the Criminal Code.” 

The MKO Chiefs in Assembly called for these amendments through MKO Resolution 2025-11-07, MKO Amendments to Bill C-9, An Act to Amend The Criminal Code (Hate Propaganda, Hate Crime and Access To Religious Or Cultural Places).

“MKO also repeatedly called on Minister Fraser to present a Government amendment to Bill C-9 to amend the Criminal Code to define and include Residential School Denialism as a hate crime.  MKO is very concerned and disappointed that the Senate of Canada did not accept the Report and amendment to Bill C-9 proposed by the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights”, concluded Grand Chief Settee.

Preparations are underway for Nickel Days as city crews get ready to transform the Thompson Regional Community Centre grounds for one of the community’s biggest annual celebrations.

Communications Officer Ian Graham says Public Works and Recreation staff will spend much of the week leading up to the event preparing the midway grounds, arena spaces, and support areas needed for the festivities.

Graham says there’s a lot of work that happens behind the scenes before the public ever arrives.

Graham says crews will begin much of that work on the Monday of Nickel Days week to ensure everything is ready before the midway opens on Thursday.

An arrest has been made in connection with a homicide investigation in Lynn Lake.

RCMP say 25-year-old Pheonix Rodgers of Lynn Lake has been charged with manslaughter following the death of an 18-year-old man.

Police were called to a residence in the community on May 30 after receiving a report of an unresponsive male.

The victim was transported to the local nursing station, where he was later pronounced dead.

Investigators say information initially suggested the victim had been injured in an ATV collision.

 However, further investigation determined he had not been involved in a collision and that his death was the result of a homicide.

Rodgers remains in custody, and the investigation continues.

Community Safety Officer services in Thompson are currently unavailable because of staff vacancies.

The City of Thompson says dispatchers with Thompson Fire and Emergency Services are unable to send CSOs to respond to calls at this time.

Residents needing to report a crime are being asked to contact the RCMP, while by-law concerns should be directed to City Hall.

According to information provided by the city, only one active CSO is currently available, while another officer remains on leave until July.

Because CSOs are required to work in pairs due to the potentially dangerous nature of the job, the staffing shortage has effectively suspended the service for now.

The city says efforts are underway to fill the vacancies.

Parents and caregivers, if you’re wondering how to keep your youngsters entertained once the school year ends, check out the Thompson Public Library summer camps.

The Library will hold camps beginning July 14th  right through to August 28th.

They run 10 am to 4 pm from Tuesday to Friday each week.

Alannah MacGrath, programmer at the Library says there is a cost to attend the camps.
 

Now is the ideal time to  learn about and celebrate the history, culture, traditions and contributions of Indigenous Peoples across Canada.

That’s because June is National Indigenous History Month.

Bruce Krentz, Health Promotion Co-ordinator with the Northern Health Region adds more about what we can do.
 

June is Stroke Awareness Month in Canada , led by the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Their campaign focuses on stroke prevention, understanding risk factors, and learning how to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Bruce Krentz, Health Promotion Co-ordinator with the Northern Health Region, adds details here.

The Thompson Seniors Community Resource Council is running a case study, thanks to funding from the Petro Canada Care-Makers Foundation.

The study’s aim is to find out what would be involved to bring respite care here to Thompson.

Penny Byer, Coordinator with the Council, talks here about next steps.

On May 29, at approximately 7:40 p.m., RCMP executed a search warrant at a residence in Wabowden as part of a months-long investigation into drug trafficking in the community and region.

Wabowden RCMP, supported by officers from the Snow Lake and Thompson detachments, descended on the Davidson Street residence. Once inside, RCMP found and seized cocaine, drug paraphernalia, numerous edged weapons, prohibited firearms, electronic devices and a score book.

Two suspects, both residents of the home, were arrested at the scene.

Damon Bayer, 37, is charged with:

• Drug possession for the purpose of trafficking;
• Possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose x6;
• Weapons possession contrary to order x2;
• Unauthorized possession of a prohibited or restricted weapon;
• Unauthorized possession of a firearm; and
• Unsafe storage of firearms x3.

He was remanded into custody.

A 29-year-old female faces a charge of drug possession for the purpose of trafficking. She was released on an appearance notice.

Northern Health Region has launched a new Rapid Access to Addictions Medicine, or RAAM, Clinic in The Pas.

The clinic is based out of the Rosaire House Addiction Centre and was developed in partnership with the Opaskwayak Health Authority.

 The service will provide support for adults seeking help with high-risk substance use and addiction.

The walk-in clinic will also assist people dealing with substance-related health concerns, including infections, hepatitis, and pancreatitis. No referral is required.

Northern Health Region says the clinic is intended to improve access to addictions treatment and mental health services across the tri-community area and beyond.

Manitobans will no longer pay provincial sales tax on groceries starting July 1.

The Manitoba government says the spring sitting of the legislature wrapped up with the passage of Bill 53, the Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act.

The legislation removes the seven per cent PST from groceries and also increases the Homeowners Affordability Tax Credit to $1,700 and the Renters Affordability Tax Credit to $675.

Government House Leader Nahanni Fontaine says the change is aimed at making life more affordable for Manitobans, while also supporting homeowners, renters and low-income families.

The province says more than 40 bills were passed during the session, including legislation to ban sick note requirements for absences of up to seven days, establish nurse-to-patient ratios, reduce mandatory overtime for nurses and strengthen restrictions on the sale of long-bladed weapons and pepper spray.

A free legal information session in Thompson next week will focus on workplace sexual harassment and what workers and employers need to know.

The Community Legal Education Association, with support from the Northern Manitoba Sector Council, is hosting the session June 9  from 930 to 11 am at the UCN campus.

Ashley Reese, Project Coordinator for CLEA’s Workplace Sexual Harassment Project, says the goal is to help people understand what harassment can look like, what their rights are, and what options are available if something happens at work.
 

The session will also cover psychological safety, workplace policies, discrimination, and prevention.

For more information head to our website at thompsononline.ca under the events calendar.

The City of Thompson says work continues on the community’s planned sobering centre.

Mayor Colleen Smook says renovations have been moving ahead through MKO while the project awaited access to previously announced provincial funding.

Mayor Colleen Smook says the funding can now be used as needed as the project progresses.
 

The city says MKO is overseeing the renovations in partnership with the provincial government as work on the sobering centre continues.