CFOB News

IJC Submits Watershed Report

2012-02-01T07:17:00.000-06:00

The final report into the management of the Lake of the Woods and Rainy Lake basins is now off to the Canadian and U.S. governments.

The International Joint Commission's report is based on work done by a previous task force.

Spokesperson Bernard Beckhoff says the IJC's report doesn't deviate much the task force suggestions.

It's now up to governments on both sides of the border to determine if the IJC can proceed with the 184-page report.

Action Requested on False Alarms

2012-02-01T07:15:00.002-06:00

The Fort Frances Police Services Board will be asking town council to consider a by-law aimed at reducing the number of false alarm calls for Provincial Police.

OPP say they responded to 129 false alarms in Fort Frances last, 149 the year before.

The board says hitting people in the pocket book with fines might go along way to reducing that number.

Question of the Day - February 1

2012-02-01T07:14:00.001-06:00

Do you think Fort Frances should consider issuing fines for false alarms?

Let us know on our website www.931TheBorder.ca.

In a previous poll question, 92 per cent of respondents don't think the eligibility age for Old Age Security should be increased to 67.

Man charged in January Break-In

2012-02-01T07:12:00.003-06:00

A 20-year-old man from Stratton will make a court appearance next week in connection with a January 22 break-in in the north end of Fort Frances.

OPP say as officer arrived to a garage on the 1000 block of Armit Avenue, the man fled.

He was eventually captured in the 800 block of Third Street East.

The man faces several charges including break-and-enter, possession of stolen property and theft.

New Economic Development Agency Promoted

2012-02-01T07:11:00.002-06:00

A new regional economic development agency for northern Ontario is being pitched to Rainy River district towns.

Consultant Patricia Forrest says the group can bring many benefits to the area.

Forest says they'll be seeking approval in March from the province to work on implementing the new organization by the end of this year.

Respect Campaign Ready to Rol

2012-02-01T06:57:00.002-06:00

Celebrating Diversity is getting ready to roll out its "Respect Campaign."

Member Linda Plumridge says the campaign that encourages dignity, respect and inculsivness will be promoted across the district starting February 16.

Part of the campaign will include workshops with interested groups and organizations.

Drug Charges

2012-02-01T06:53:00.006-06:00

Three people, including two from Atikokan, face drug charges after police intercepted a shipment of oxycodone Monday.

Over 470 oxycondone and 47 Ritalin pills, street valued at about 6-thousand dollars, were found in a vehicle stopped just west of Thunder Bay.

Police also seized the truck and 22-hundred dollars in cash.

The man and woman from Atikokan, both aged 55, and the 42-year-old Thunder Bay woman will appear in court in March.

Visitor Restrictions Lifted

2012-02-01T06:51:00.003-06:00

Visitor Restrictions at Rainycrest Long Term Care in Fort Frances have been lifted.

The restrictions had been in place since the middle of January because of an increase in the number of case of gastroenteritis.

Although the restrictions are lifted, officials says people who have any flu-like symptoms should still refrain from visiting until they feel better.

Fishing Violations Up in Minnesota

2012-02-01T06:50:00.004-06:00

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeing a jump in fishing violations on Lake of the Woods this winter.

The DNR recently seized 234 walleye and sauger for various violations on the Minnesota side of the lake.

Conservation officers investigated over 50 incidents last week ranging from over-fishing, to anglers fishing without a license.

Freezing Rain Warning

2012-01-31T08:14:00.001-06:00

Area roads could a little slick this morning.

Freezing rain has been falling across much of the Rainy River district and Koochiching County.

It's associated with a low pressure system that's moving in from northern Minnesota.

The Ministry of Transportation reports Highways 11 and 602 to be mainly bare and wet with slushy sections.

Other secondary highways are listed as being snow covered.

Highways in Koochiching County report being wet with icy sections.

LHINS Take On Doc

2012-01-31T08:13:00.001-06:00

Ontario's local health integration networks will be given responsibility for family doctors.

The CEO of the Northwest LHIN, Laura Kokocinski, says her organization is prepared to make it work.

Health Minister Deb Matthews says the LHIN's will help ensure patients have a more seamless experience between doctor and hospital.

Riding Changes Possible

2012-01-31T07:58:00.001-06:00

There could be changes coming to federal ridings in northwestern Ontario as the government looks to add 15 new seats for Ontario

Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty foresees at least part of his riding being added to the Kenora riding.

Rafferty also envisions northern Ontario losing one of two ridings.

Little Interest in Regional Airport Concept

2012-01-31T07:52:00.004-06:00

There hasn't been an overwhelming favourable response from communities elsewhere in the Rainy River district to help fund the Fort Frances airport.

The town has been trying to promote the idea of a regional airport for more than a year, but CAO Mark McCaig says only Chapple and Emo has expressed interest.

McCaig says there has also been some interest from area First Nations.

Police Step up Drunk Driving Enforcement

2012-01-31T07:51:00.000-06:00

Motorists traveling to Duluth may see an increased police presence.

St. Louis County is one of thirteen Minnesota counties where efforts to curb drunk driving will be stepped up.

Officers will use electronic message boards and heavy patrols.

Media ads will also encourage people to avoid driving while impaired.

Snowarama Success

2012-01-31T07:50:00.001-06:00

Organizers of the Snowarama for Easter Seals in Atikokan hit their fundraising goal.

Sixty-five snowmobilers helped to raise over $20-thousand in Saturday's ride.

That's over the $19,700 raised last year by about the same number of riders.

Audit Committee Needs Member

2012-01-31T07:46:00.002-06:00

The Northwest Catholic District School Board is still looking to add a community member to a newly formed Audit Committee.

The committee is responsible for reviewing how well the board manages its finances.

It's been in place since September.

Area Mayors Seek Faster Uploading of Court Costs

2012-01-31T07:45:00.001-06:00

Municipal leaders from the Rainy River district want the province to take back the cost of court security quicker than it is.

The uploading of those costs will be done over six years, starting this year.

But the area municipal representatives want the cost of those services taken back in full immediately.

Girl Struck By Vehicle near Duluth

2012-01-31T07:39:00.001-06:00

A Fort Frances girl has escaped serious injury after being struck by a pick-up truck north of Duluth.

The incident happened Friday afternoon..

Minnesota State Patrol says the 12-year-old ran in front of traffic while her mother had stopped to assist another vehicle that left Highway 53 near Cotton.

Police says the girl had ignored a warning from her mother to stay in the vehicle.

She was taken to hospital in Virginia where she was treated and released.

Area Mayors Support Need for Resident Judge

2012-01-30T07:54:00.001-06:00

Municipal leaders across the Rainy River district are supporting calls for the reappointment of a permanent resident judge for the district.

A lengthy resolution was passed at their weekend meeting in Devlin that will be forwarded to the Attorney General and the Regional Chief Justice.

Fort Frances lawyer Wes Derkson encourages area mayors and reeves to keep up the fight.

The province intends to have the appointment relocated to the Kenora district after the current judge leaves the area in May.

Extra Ambulance Costs Consider

2012-01-30T07:51:00.001-06:00

The head of ambulance services for the Rainy River district says it could cost $640-thousand extra to deal with a potential closure of the Rainy River Health Centre's emergency department.

Dan McCormick says another ambulance unit would be needed to help deal with patient transfers if the hospital can't find the doctors it needs.

McCormick says about 35 per cent of the estimated ambulance costs would be borne by area municipalities who will likely have to lobby the province for help.

Health Minister Speaks Today

2012-01-30T07:48:00.003-06:00

Health Minister Deb Matthews will outline some of the Liberal government's plans to transform Ontario's health care system in a Toronto speech today.

But the Ontario Health Coalition is not happy to hear Matthews' speech will be to the Toronto Board of Trade -- calling it inappropriate.

HST Increase Panned

2012-01-30T07:47:00.001-06:00

Atikokan is receiving virtually no support from elsewhere in the Rainy River district to its idea of having the HST increased a per cent to help pay for infrastructure projects.

Area municipal leaders voted against the proposal at their weekend meeting in Devlin.

Atikokan Mayor Dennis Brown says based on the lack of support, it's doubtful they will pursue the idea further.

Kendrick Gone

2012-01-30T07:45:00.001-06:00

Ontario Provincial Police are looking for a new Detachment Commander for the Rainy River district.

Inspector John Kendrick has been transferred to Thunder Bay where he's become the OPP's Regional Director of Operations Support.

Steve Shouldice, who's been serving in an acting capacity since last October, will remain as Detachment Commander until a permanent selection is made.

Heart of the Arts Benefit Concert

2012-01-30T07:44:00.001-06:00

Planning for the first ever ‘Heart of the Arts’ Benefit Concert continues.

Wanda Botsford, one of the organizers, says they're still looking for people interested in participating in the February 16 event.

The event is being used to showcase local talent and raise funds for the Sunset Country Métis and the Rainy River Arts Collective.

Question of the Day - January 30

2012-01-30T07:26:00.002-06:00

78 per cent of respondents to our poll question don't think last week's meeting between the Prime Minister and First Nations leaders was beneficial.

Today's question, should the federal government move the eligibility age for Old Age Security from 65 to 67?

Let us know on our website www.931TheBorder.ca.

Job Cuts at Resolute

2012-01-30T07:25:00.000-06:00

Some numbers are starting to emerge from ongoing talk of suspected jobs cuts at Resolute Forest Products mill in Fort Frances.

National president for the Communication, Energy and Paperworkers Union Kim Ginter says 45 members within the mill's CEP's locals are being let go .

He says some may be allowed early retirement packages.

The kraft mill resumed operations on this weekend.

Provincial Liberals Stronger in Riding

2012-01-30T07:23:00.005-06:00

Provincial Liberals in the Kenora-Rainy River riding are looking to increase its membership base.

A newly formed riding Association set its objectives following a recent meeting in Dryden.

It's president, Anthony Leek of Emo, says the main goal is to provide a link between the Riding and government.

Leek says the Association also wants to be better prepared for the next provincial election.

Hudak Wants More Skilled Workers

2012-01-30T07:22:00.003-06:00

The Leader of the Provincial Opposition wants changes to the apprenticeship program.

Tim Hudak was in Thunder Bay Thursday and says a major shortage in skilled workers needs to be addressed.

Hudak is hoping the McGuinty government adopts his plan that will create 200 thousand new jobs in the skilled trades.

C-Sections Not Delisted

2012-01-30T07:21:00.005-06:00

C-sections are not on the table as the province looks for ways to rein in the deficit.

That's the word from Health Minister Deb Matthews.

The minister had suggested earlier last week that caesarean sections could be delisted.

She now says OHIP will keep paying for C-sections, but she left the door open to having the procedure covered only when it's deemed medically necessary.

Oberholtzer Home Getting Upgrade

2012-01-30T07:21:00.000-06:00

The former Rainy Lake home of Ernest Oberholtzer will get some much needed upgrades this year.

The Foundation bearing the name of the well-known architect, explorer and conservationist has received a $48-thousand grant from the Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Society.

Director Mary Swalla-Holmes says the money will be used to repair the home's fireplace and chimney.

The work on the home on Mallard Island will be done in the fall.

Gun Bill Passes

2012-01-30T07:13:00.000-06:00

A Minnesota state House committee has passed a bill that would let county attorneys carry guns on the job.

The House Public Safety Committee's vote Thursday comes a month after the courthouse shooting in Grand Marias.

The firearms bill would exempt county attorneys from a statute that prohibits local government employees from carrying firearms.

Cold, but Not That Cold

2012-01-27T11:42:00.000-06:00

It's the Ice Box of the Nation, but according to the Weather Channel, International Falls is not the coldest place in America.

It's giving that distinction to Barrow, Alaska, based on average annual temperatures from the last 30 years.

The Falls comes in at number two on the Channel recent poll.

Some Health Programs to be Delisted

2012-01-26T06:57:00.002-06:00

The NDP is worried that the McGuinty government's cuts to the number of services covered by O-HIP will turn into a slippery slope of biggers cuts down the road.

The party's finance critic Michael Prue calls the latest announcement a part of an agenda the province started eight years ago when it delisted chiropractors and physiotherapists and optometrists.

Health Minister Deb Matthews says the province will reduce the number of services covered by O-HIP in the fight against the deficit.

Health Unit Board Selections

2012-01-26T06:55:00.001-06:00

A Fort Frances councillor is back as the head of the Northwestern Health Unit's Board of Directors.

John Albanese has been re-elected as chair.

Fort Frances councillor Paul Ryan and former Emo Reeve Russ Fortier were also returned to the board.

Provincial Funding Announced

2012-01-26T06:53:00.001-06:00

Fort Frances will receive more than $3.2- million from the province this year.

That's its allocation under the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund.

Over $900-thousand is to be used to offset the town's policing costs.

The province also says the town will also benefit in half-a-million dollars from the ongoing uploading of municipal costs for area social programs.

The Ministry of Finance did not disclose the amount of funding to Atikokan.

It says it couldn't calculate its allocation because the town had not submitted required financial information.

Question of the Day - January 26

2012-01-26T06:51:00.001-06:00

A split vote to our question regarding the town of Fort Frances plans to remove sidewalks in disrepair.

51 per cent of respondents don't think the town is justisfied in its reasons while 49 per cent support the town's plans.

Today's question, do you think this week's First Nations leaders meeting with the Prime Minister was beneficial?

Let us know on our website 931TheBorder.ca.

Mixed Feelings from Treaty 3

2012-01-26T06:50:00.000-06:00

Grand Council Treaty Three has mixed feelings about this week's summit with the federal government.

Grand Chief Diane Kelly says the prime mininister's decision to spend all day meeting with aborignal leaders was unprecedented, but some of the speeches by the Assembly of First Nations were somewhat disheartening.

She feels Treaty Three's own laws can better protect their harvesting areas.

Rafferty Takes Aim at Premier

2012-01-26T06:47:00.002-06:00

Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty says Premier Dalton McGuinty is passing the buck when he claims First Nations are a Federal responsibility.

Rafferty says that's not the case since the Province of Ontario signed both the Treaty Three and Nine treaties.

The local MP adds the McGuinty Government has failed to provide equal funding toward first nation education.

Watch What You Share Online

2012-01-26T06:46:00.001-06:00

Ontario's privacy commissioner is warning people to be careful of information they share about themselves online.

Dr. Ann Cavoukian says pieces of information that seem unrelated can be linked to create a detailed profile.

Wolf Season Planned

2012-01-26T06:45:00.000-06:00

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is proposing to let hunters and trappers take 400 wolves this fall.

DNR officials say research indicates the population could sustain a higher harvest quota, but say they're taking a conservative approach for the state's first season.

The region's wolves come off the endangered list tomorrow.

New Vice-Principal for Rainy River HS

2012-01-26T06:43:00.001-06:00

Rainy River High School will have a new vice-principal next month.

Dan Mack is being appointed to the position in an interim basis.

He replace Don McBride who is retiring.

Health Minister Asked to Visit

2012-01-25T07:09:00.005-06:00

Ontario's Health Minister is being invited to visit the Rainy River district.

Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell says it may help find a more long-term solution that improves better access to physicians for area residents.

Campbell says the situation has become especially critical in Rainy River where the town's lone doctor announced recently to retire by the end of June 2013.

Health Care Reform Planned??

2012-01-25T06:57:00.000-06:00

A change in how Ontario spends money for health care may be on the horizon.

Premier McGuinty says government will soon outline its plans for health care reform.

McGuinty says the government will also have to deal with public sector salaries in its drive to eliminate the deficit.

The New Democrats are worried by the Liberal government's talk of transforming Ontario's health care system.

Leader Andrea Horwath fears the lack of specifics.

The Progressive Conservatives, meantime, say they'll keep pushing for a legislated public sector wage freeze to help trim the deficit, an idea rejected by the Premier.

Air Ambulance Job Cuts

2012-01-25T06:54:00.000-06:00

Ontario's air ambulance service ORNGE has cut 18 jobs in an effort to cut costs.

The cuts apply only to office jobs and not paramedics or pilots.

ORNGE has been at the centre of controversy lately over its questionable business practices, posh headquarters and high executive salaries.

Water Meters Being Changed

2012-01-25T06:49:00.001-06:00

A final attempt will be made next month to replace a number of out-dated water metres from a number of Fort Frances businesses, industries and institutions.

Operations and Facilities Manager Doug Brown says the company tasked with the job is hoping to finish the changeover it started last fall.

Brown says some of the 173 metres being replaced were installed up to 40 years ago.

Because of increase accuracy in reading water use, Brown admits some users may find themselves paying more for water than they did with the old meters.

Unemployment Rate Unchanged

2012-01-25T06:47:00.003-06:00

The unemployment rate in Koochiching County held steady at 7.9 per cent last month.

The latest figures from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development show the County created about one hundred jobs in December over the month before.

Union Merger Explored

2012-01-25T06:46:00.001-06:00

The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union and the Canadian Auto Workers are getting the ball rolling to create one mega union.

Stephen Boon, CEP National Representative for this region, says both sides are pushing to establish a new union.

Other unnamed unions could also be included.

Law School Dean Selection Continues

2012-01-25T06:45:00.002-06:00

Lakehead University is starting to whittle down it's list of potential Law School Deans.

Spokesperson Rodney Hanley says they should have a short list of candidates in February.

Applications for the new Thunder Bay law school have come from across Canada and around the world.

Lost Wheels

2012-01-25T06:43:00.002-06:00

Both the 20-year-old driver of a transport and the company he was driving for face charges after OPP stopped a vehicle near Dryden missing a set of rear tires.

The incident happened Saturday.

No word where the missing tires went or how long the vehicle had been on the highway before police stopped it.

Seine River Looks for New Business

2012-01-25T06:42:00.000-06:00

Seine River First Nation is receiving provincial funding to help attract new business and create jobs.

The money allows the band to complete an inventory of its community assets, update its web profile and host an investment readiness strategy workshop.

Mayor Meets with Resolute CEO

2012-01-24T07:14:00.000-06:00

The Mayor of Fort Frances will be among those meeting behind closed doors today with the CEO of Resolute Forest Products.

Roy Avis says he was asked to attend the meeting that will take place in Thunder Bay.

The meeting comes as the company goes through as assessment appeal of its Fort Frances operations and a lengthy shutdown of mill.

More Sidewalk Removal

2012-01-24T07:11:00.002-06:00

Another section of sidewalk along Third Street East in Fort Frances is planned to be ripped up this summer.

Councillor Rick Wiedenhoeft says the south side walkway between Portage and Victoria Avenues will be removed as part of scheduled road improvements.

Attempts to remove a section between Portage and Mowat Avenues last year were abandoned because of residents' complaints.

Question of the Day - January 24

2012-01-24T07:09:00.002-06:00

Do you think the town of Fort Frances is justified in its reasons for removing sidewalks in disrepair?

Let us know on our website 931The Border.ca.

CFOB goes FM in Atikokan

2012-01-24T07:08:00.000-06:00

93.1 The Border makes the move to the FM dial in Atikokan later today.

Listeners in that community will lose our AM signal at about 7 a.m., allowing our technicians to make the switch-over.

It will return to the airwaves at 95.9 FM by 5 p.m.

You can still listen to 93.1 The Border streaming through our website.

Dog Saves Owners From Fire

2012-01-24T06:58:00.001-06:00

The owners can give thanks to their dog for helping escape a house fire in International Falls.

The home was completely destroyed in Sunday morning's blaze which took firefighters nearly three hours to battle.

Fire officials say the owners were altered to the fire by their dog that had woken them up out of their sleep.

A man was taken to Rainy Lake Medical Centre as a precaution and released.

Cause of the fire is still not known.

Airport Survey

2012-01-24T06:56:00.002-06:00

The Falls Airport Commission is gathering input on both sides of the border on air travel and usage of the Falls Airport.

Commission Chair Bob Anderson says the results will help them develop future marketing strategies.

The Commission is still awaiting word from the U-S federal transportation on whether Great Lakes Aviation will allowed to take over services being abandoned by Delta.

Results of the survey are now expected for several weeks.

Birth Centre Pilot Project Sought

2012-01-24T06:55:00.000-06:00

AOM photo

The Association of Ontario Midwives is leading a social media campaign urging the province to fund a birth centre pilot project.

The association says birthing centres could cut costs such as medical and surgical expenses.

Cost Cutting Plans Expected from Premier

2012-01-24T06:52:00.002-06:00

Premier McGuinty is expected to lay out the bare bones of his government's cost-cutting plans today.

He'll make a speech in Toronto, an inside source says will be about how to slay Ontario's $16-billion deficit.

Visitor Restrictions at Rainycrest

2012-01-16T06:58:00.001-06:00

Visitor restrictions have been imposed at Rainycrest Long Term Care in Fort Frances.

Officials says it's due to an increase in the number of confirmed cases of gastroenteritis.

Family members are permitted, but visits are being restricted to the resident's room and no other visits are permitted.

All Group Programming by Activation has also been cancelled.

Budget Talks Begin

2012-01-16T06:54:00.000-06:00

More than $9-million dollars of capital projects are on the books as Fort Frances town councillors sit down today to begin their budget discussions.

They include the continuing of road improvements to 3rd Street East between Portage and Victoria Avenues, the development of a bike and walking trail and a replacement of the roof at the OPP detachment and Fire hall.

Some projects may be dependant upon the availability of government grants.

Work Workshop

2012-01-16T06:53:00.000-06:00

Some help for employers looking for new hires or employees seeking work.

The Northwest Training Adjustment Board is holding workshop in Fort Frances this week.

Executive Director Sonja Wainio says it was based out of comments received from employers who say they're having troubles finding new employees and people suggesting they can't find a job.

Participants for Wednesday's event must pre-register with the N-TAB's office.

Question of the Day - January 16

2012-01-16T06:49:00.000-06:00

Do you support the Liberal's policy platform to legalize marijuana?

Let us know on Facebook or our website 931TheBorder. ca.

From our weekend on-line question, 88 per cent of respondents don't have any belief into the superstitions surrounding Friday the 13th.

Another Internet Bear Birth

2012-01-16T06:47:00.003-06:00

The sister of Lilly, the black bear who gave birth while the world watched via webcam, is preparing to give birth herself.

Lynn Rogers, senior biologist of the Wildlife Research Institute in Ely, says Jewel is showing signs of preparing to give birth any day.

Rogers says they plan to broadcast the birth on the Internet.

The website is www.Bear.org.

Rezoning Objections Reach OMB

2012-01-13T08:18:00.002-06:00

Residents objections to the town of Fort Frances turning a neighbourhood park into housing lots are headed to the Ontario Municipal Board.

An appeal over the rezoning of Nelson Street Park has been filled with the board.

No hearing has been set as of yet.

The town must first complete a report on the issue for the OMB by January 24th.

Crash Victims Names Released

2012-01-13T08:14:00.001-06:00

Provincial Police have released the names of those killed in Tuesday's plane crash at North Spirit Lake.

62-year-old Ben Van Hoek, 39-year-old Colette Eisinger, and 38-year-old Martha Campbell, and the pilot 41-year-old Fariborz Abasabady were all from Manitoba.

Reports says the passengers were with Aboriginal Strategies, a Winnipeg-based company which provides financial management services to First Nations.

Van Hoek was its president.

Ontario Wood First Promoter

2012-01-13T08:12:00.001-06:00

The Provincial Government has signed up its first organization for its new Ontario Wood logo.

Natural Resources Minister Michael Gravelle says the Ontario Forest Industries Association is now licensed to carry the logo.

Association President Jamie Lim says it's the best way to raise consumer awareness.

Gravelle hopes the logo proves to be as popular as the Ontario Food logo.

Relay for Life Planning Underway

2012-01-13T08:07:00.000-06:00

The call is now out for participants and volunteers for this year's Relay for Life in Fort Frances.

Organizers kicked off the planning with an event last night.

Co-chair Jennifer Anderson says many more meetings will be held in case people were unable to attend.

A Facebook page has also been set up to keep people informed.

The fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society will likely be held again at Fort Frances High School.

Here is some video from last year's event.

Question of the Day - January 13

2012-01-13T07:47:00.001-06:00

Virtually no public support on our on-line poll to Atikokan town council's call for a one per cent hike in the HST for infrastructure improvements.

All of the respondents said they would not support such an hike.

Atikokan is taking its idea to area municipal leaders later this month.

In our weekend question, today is Friday the 13th.

Do you put any belief into the superstitions surrounding the day?

Let us know on our Facebook page or website 931TheBorder.ca

Minnesota Investigates Infrastructure Payments

2012-01-13T07:46:00.001-06:00

Governor Mark Dayton is creating a task force to come up with new ways to pay for Minnesota's roads, bridges and public transit.

Dayton says the panel will make its recommendations by December.

Christmas Kettle Program in Falls Totals

2012-01-13T07:45:00.000-06:00

The last of the donations to the Salvation Army's Christmas Kettle campaign in International Falls has been counted.

More than $23-thousand dollars was raised in last month's campaign.

That's a 12 per cent increase over 2010.

Just over $15-thousand was raised by the Salvation Army's campaign in Fort Frances.

Town Looking to Help Charities

2012-01-13T07:43:00.000-06:00

The town of Fort France is looking to help local charities with their lottery license reporting.

Any organization that obtains a license through the town must follow certain guidelines as set out by the province.

Town clerk Glenn Treflin says that isn't always happening.

Treflin says now he's looking to set up a future training session.

Hike in HST Proposed

2012-01-12T07:56:00.000-06:00

Atikokan town council is advocating a one per cent hike in the HST.

The town says the revenue could be earmarked for municipalities for infrastructure improvements.

Mayor Dennis Brown says it may be the only really viable option to cover the high cost of that work.

Brown says under their proposal, his community would receive more than 850-thousand dollars annually.

Question of the Day - January 12

2012-01-12T07:30:00.001-06:00

Would you support a hike in the HST if it was specifically earmarked for infrastructure improvements?

Let us know on our Facebooko page or website 931The Border.ca.

In response to yesterday's question, 57 per cent of respondents would like to see Fort France stage a winter carnival similar to International Falls Ice Box Days.

Trustee Questions Complaint

2012-01-12T07:27:00.000-06:00

A Fort Frances trustee says he was named in a complaint to the courts by the Rainy River District School Board before his election over a year ago.

David Kircher made public details of the complaint at this week's school board meeting.

He says the 2009 complaint alleged he acted as public surrogate for a Justice of the Peace while seeking answers to issues surrounding the theft of funds from Fort Frances High School.

Kircher, who denies the allegations, claims the board abused its authority by submitting the complaint without trustee approval.

Betty's Window Display Gets Recognition

2012-01-12T07:21:00.001-06:00

A recent window display has earned Betty's of Fort Frances some international recognition.

The display showed off German-based Schleich toy figurines and entered in a company sponsored contest.

Blair Anderson says their store was selected third best among hundreds of retailers worldwide.

Anderson says they get a voucher for free product they'll distributed to customers while photos of the display will be used by the company in future promotions.

Soft Ice Warnings

2012-01-12T07:18:00.001-06:00

Ontario Provincial Police are again warning the public to be cautious about ice conditions on the area's waterways.

It comes after a recent incident near Haymarsh Bay on Rainy Lake, northwest of the Noden Causeway.

Occupants of a truck were left stranded on the ice when their vehicle stalled in three to four feet of water at the edge of an ice heave.

Highway Winter Maintenance Questioned

2012-01-12T07:17:00.001-06:00

The provincial government is taking some heat over road conditions on northern Ontario highways.

Opposition parties say the governing Liberals are jeopardizing motorists' safety by lowering maintenance standards in their winter contracts.

P-C member Vic Fedeli is seeking a coroner's inquest into the recent deaths on northern highways.

New Democrat Gilles Bisson says the Liberals are trying to save money by reducing the number of plows on the road.

Changes at ORNGE

2012-01-12T07:12:00.001-06:00

Ontario's troubled air ambulance system is getting a shakeup at the top.

The province says ORNGE president and CEO Chris Mazza is being replaced by a deputy minister for the time being.

The entire board of directors is also being replaced.

Health Care Program Ends

2012-01-12T07:11:00.000-06:00

Hundreds of people in Minnesota who aren't U.S. citizens will no longer receive most health care services from a program of last resort.

The Emergency Medical Assistance program served about 23-hundred people who didn't qualify for Medicare or MinnesotaCare because of their immigration status.

They will still receive emergency care at a hospital, but as of January 1st are no longer be eligible for chemotherapy, dialysis or other services.

Plane Crash Kills 4

2012-01-11T07:48:00.002-06:00

Investigators will try to determine what caused a small plane to crash as it approached Ontario's North Spirit Lake First Nation.

The plane slammed into a lake on the reserve yesterday while trying to land in a blinding snowstorm on a flight from Winnipeg.

Four people died and only one survived.

A 36-year-old Winnipeg man is in stable condition with some broken bones.

Teachers Leave Pikangikum

2012-01-11T07:43:00.002-06:00

Mould is now preventing kids from going to school in Pikangikum First Nation.

The mould is in their teachers' home.

Most have left the community, north of Red Lake, because of it.

Community leaders say the school may now have to close.

Highway Closed

2012-01-11T07:29:00.002-06:00

Travel to Kenora has been prohibited this morning.

A fatal traffic accident involving two transports and a vehicle has closed the Trans Canada Highway at the junction of Highway 71.

OPP says it could be late this afternoon before the road reopens.

December Weather Stats

2012-01-11T07:27:00.002-06:00

The month of December in the Rainy River district was the warmest it's been in fifteen years.

The average temperature of minus 7.4 C was a full six degrees warmer than normal.

Environment Canada's Geoff Coulson says we're simply not experiencing systems we usually see.

The area also saw 23 centimetres of snow fall in December, about 2/3rds of what is normally received.

One Last Weather Record

2012-01-11T07:26:00.001-06:00

The last of the warm days in January has given Fort Frances another weather record.

Yesterday's high of 5.1 C, or 41 F, shattered the old mark of 3 C set back in 1990.

Dryden, Kenora and Sioux Lookout also set new record high yesterday.

MP Doesn't Support Floor-Crossing

2012-01-11T07:25:00.000-06:00

Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty is no fan of switching party's in mid-term.

Rafferty say he can't comment on the reasons behind Quebec MP Lise St. Denis leaving the NDP for the Liberals, but doesn't support how she did it.

Rafferty says MP's who want to switch parties should resign their seat and run for re-election in a by-election.

Rafferty doesn't think St. Denis's defection will have a big huge on the NDP which still holds down 101 seats in the House of Commons.

Cultural Plan Accepted

2012-01-11T07:22:00.001-06:00

Atikokan council intends to move forward on a new cultural plan for the community.

Mayor Dennis Brown says the first step is determining which of the 33 recommendations will be pursued first.

Brown sees the plan helping boost tourism and ensuring a well rounded lifestyle for local residents.

Question of the Day - January 11

2012-01-11T07:16:00.002-06:00

While a Canadian-wide survey suggests otherwise, 78 per cents of respondents to our on-line poll question don't think the federal government needs to take a stronger role in combating childhood obesity.

Today's question, Ice Box Days begins in International Falls next week. Do you see any merit to a similar winter festival in Fort Frances?

Tell us on our Facebook page or website www.931TheBorder.ca.

Hearing on Assessment Appeal Set

2012-01-11T07:14:00.001-06:00

Fort Frances town officials say it could be substantial, but it's going to be several months before they know the true impact of AbitibiBowater's appeal of its assessment of its Fort Frances mill.

The Assessment Review Board has scheduled a hearing by tele-conference on the matter for August 12.

The company, know operating as Resolute Forest Products, is seeking a roll back for the last three years.

Town officals say a decision favouring the company could mean having to give back a tax rebate of up to $3-million and the loss of up to $800-thousand in future tax revenue annual.

Fines Write Off Books

2012-01-11T07:11:00.001-06:00

The town of Fort Frances is writing off more than $137-thousand in fines, considered non-collectible.

Treasurer Laurie Witherspoon says the move is an accounting process and doesn't mean those issued the fines don't have to ever pay them.

The fines date back to 2006

Appeal Assessment Influencing Budget Talks

2012-01-10T06:57:00.000-06:00

AbitibiBowater's appeal of its assessment of the Fort Frances mill is weighing heavily on town councillors as they begin budget discussions next week.

Treasure Laurie Witherspoon says a decision on the appeal won't be known for some time, but a reduction of any kind will have a significant impact.

A decision on the company's appeal could come later this year.

Preliminary figures show a current shortfall in the proposed operating budget for 2012 of about $300-thousand, but doesn't take into account the outcome of that appeal which is still before the Assessment Review Board.

Infiltration Report Expected Soon

2012-01-10T06:53:00.001-06:00

A study exploring why Fort Frances treats more water than it produces is expected out soon.

Councillor Paul Ryan says the amount of water treated last year was staggering.

Over 887-thousand cubic metres more went through the town's treatment plant than was produced.

Ryan says the town is committed to acting on correcting the problem.

Town to Help with Snow Sculptures

2012-01-10T06:50:00.001-06:00

The Rainy River Arts Collective will receive help from Fort Frances in its plans to create a number of snow sculptures around town.

Town council last night gave their blessing to have five of the sculptures created on town owned properties.

The town will also help move snow from the airport.

Work on the sculptures is expected in early February.

More Weather Records

2012-01-10T06:48:00.002-06:00

Another weather record in Fort Frances yesterday.

The high of 4.6 C or 40 F eclipsed the old mark of 3.5 C set back in 1986 and tied in 2002.

Question of the Day - January 10

2012-01-10T06:46:00.003-06:00

68 per cent of respondents to our on-line poll question feel the lack of the snow this year has not been a good thing for the Rainy River district.

Today question - do you thing the federal government has a role in combating childhood obesity.

Let us know on our Facebook page or website www.931TheBorder.ca.

Health Unit Says Check 'Em

2012-01-10T06:45:00.001-06:00

It's "MANuary"!

The Northwestern Health Unit is trying raise awareness of testicular cancer.

Public Health Nurse Patty Foster says they were surprised at the lack of awareness among men in our communities.

Foster says a Facebook campaign and visits to high schools are planned to heighten awareness.

Snow Sculptures Okayed by Administration

2012-01-09T07:25:00.001-06:00

Fort Frances town councillors could give their blessing tonight to allowing snow sculptures on some town own properties next month.

It's a project proposed by the Rainy River Arts Collective.

Administration is recommending sculptures on five locations.

It also supports collecting and moving snow to the sites for the group.

Fines Go Unpaid

2012-01-09T07:22:00.002-06:00

The town of Fort Frances may have to write off more than $137-thousand in unpaid fines.

The fines date back to 2006 and are considered noncollectable after all means of collection have been exhausted.

A report on the fines comes to council at its meeting tonight.

RRSP Season

2012-01-09T07:19:00.002-06:00

It's RRSP season and despite economic troubles, people are still pouring more into their funds.

Scotia McLeod's Blake Cameron says it's a great tool to save for retirement.

The deadline to make your contributions is the end of February.

Question of the Day - January 9

2012-01-09T07:14:00.002-06:00

58 per cent of respondents to our on-line poll question indicated they do not plan to contribute to an RRSP this year.

Today's question, do think the lack of snow this year is a good or bad thing for the Rainy River district.

Cast your ballot at www.931TheBorder.ca.

Back to School

2012-01-09T07:13:00.001-06:00

It's back to school for hundreds of students across the Rainy River district and their teachers following the two-week Christmas Break.

Education Director for the Rainy River District School Board Heather Campbell says there were plenty of accomplishments in the classroom in 2011.

Campbell is hoping to continue that work and a number of pilot projects in 2012.