The size of lottery tickets in Ontario is being reduced.
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation says its shrinking the tickets as part Bet on Green program.
The OLG says the move will save one-point-four million dollars and 5-thousand trees or 39 million sheets of paper annually.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Fish Huts Vandalized
Koochiching County Sheriff's office continues to investigate the break-in and vandalism of a number of fish shacks on the Minnesota side of Rainy Lake.
Fifteen houses located on Sand Bay were entered last Friday.
Most of the huts had windows broken or other damage.
Among items taken include fishing rods, ice augers and from one shack a 19-inch flat screen television.
Fifteen houses located on Sand Bay were entered last Friday.
Most of the huts had windows broken or other damage.
Among items taken include fishing rods, ice augers and from one shack a 19-inch flat screen television.
Local Sports for Wednesday January 27
Fort Frances Lakers had a two-game home win streak snapped last night, falling 4-3 to the visiting Dryden Ice Dogs at the Ice for Kids Arena.
Tyler Stevenson, Blake Boaz and Byron Katapaytuk did the Laker scoring.
T.J. Pocock stopped 17 shots in the loss.
Willie Corrin had a four-goal night to pace the International Falls Broncos boys' hockey team to an 11-0 win over Ely.
Corrin added two assists for a six point night - a total matched by Jordan Christianson who had 2 goals and 4 assists.
Other scorers were Jon McDonald, Michael Bounds, Alex Bruess, Matt Youso and Dylan Farmer.
Mike Hart stopped just eleven shots for his third shutout of the season.
The Broncos boys' basketball team was also victorious, defeating Tower-Soudan 66-54.
Shawn Filipiak led all scorers with 17 points.
Rainy River Voyageur's men's and women's basketball teams take to the road for northern division games against Hibbing.
On the men's side, both teams are 3-2 in conference play, but Hibbing holds a stronger overall record.
Rainy River is still looking for its first conference win on the women's side.
Tyler Stevenson, Blake Boaz and Byron Katapaytuk did the Laker scoring.
T.J. Pocock stopped 17 shots in the loss.
Willie Corrin had a four-goal night to pace the International Falls Broncos boys' hockey team to an 11-0 win over Ely.
Corrin added two assists for a six point night - a total matched by Jordan Christianson who had 2 goals and 4 assists.
Other scorers were Jon McDonald, Michael Bounds, Alex Bruess, Matt Youso and Dylan Farmer.
Mike Hart stopped just eleven shots for his third shutout of the season.
The Broncos boys' basketball team was also victorious, defeating Tower-Soudan 66-54.
Shawn Filipiak led all scorers with 17 points.
Rainy River Voyageur's men's and women's basketball teams take to the road for northern division games against Hibbing.
On the men's side, both teams are 3-2 in conference play, but Hibbing holds a stronger overall record.
Rainy River is still looking for its first conference win on the women's side.
Conservation Club Honours Members
Two long-time members of the Fort Frances Conservation Club have been recognized for their efforts.
Willie Anderson and Jack Hedman were awarded life-time members from the club at its annual meeting last night.
Hedman, the past-president of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, says its a great honour.
"I've been a member of the club for the close to thirty years," says Hedman, "I looked around the room tonight and I saw all these fellows who've been around for that length of time. To be honoured by your peers is really something else. It's really special."
For Anderson, it was a love for the outdoors got him involved with the club more than 40-years ago."
"I've always like the outdoors and hunted," says Anderson. "I used to gunsmith at one time and still do a fair amount of shooting when I get the chance. I just enjoy working with the group."
Anderson, who manages the club's gun range, was also awarded the Bud Cyr Conservation trophy which recognizes the contributions of a club member over the past year.
The club also honoured Junior members Robert and Jacob Empy for their work on several club projects last year.
Willie Anderson and Jack Hedman were awarded life-time members from the club at its annual meeting last night.
Hedman, the past-president of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, says its a great honour.
"I've been a member of the club for the close to thirty years," says Hedman, "I looked around the room tonight and I saw all these fellows who've been around for that length of time. To be honoured by your peers is really something else. It's really special."
For Anderson, it was a love for the outdoors got him involved with the club more than 40-years ago."
"I've always like the outdoors and hunted," says Anderson. "I used to gunsmith at one time and still do a fair amount of shooting when I get the chance. I just enjoy working with the group."
Anderson, who manages the club's gun range, was also awarded the Bud Cyr Conservation trophy which recognizes the contributions of a club member over the past year.
The club also honoured Junior members Robert and Jacob Empy for their work on several club projects last year.
Group Fighting for Community TV
A group that supports the use of community-access television stations across Canada wants the CRTC to ensure their protection.
Catherine Edwards of the Canadian Association of Community Television Users and Stations says the regulating agency is reviewing its community TV policy and users of those stations need to speak out.
"We just think the solution is for communities to have their own channels," says Edwards, "and we think it will address the problem we're seeing in the public and private sector as well which is a lot of station closures in small communities. This way the future of these station would be in community hands to do what they want with them.
Edwards says the reduction of local programming and full-time staff at Shaw's Fort Frances operations is a trend being seen across the country.
Edwards encourages the public to comment on the policy before the deadline ends next Monday.
Catherine Edwards of the Canadian Association of Community Television Users and Stations says the regulating agency is reviewing its community TV policy and users of those stations need to speak out.
"We just think the solution is for communities to have their own channels," says Edwards, "and we think it will address the problem we're seeing in the public and private sector as well which is a lot of station closures in small communities. This way the future of these station would be in community hands to do what they want with them.
Edwards says the reduction of local programming and full-time staff at Shaw's Fort Frances operations is a trend being seen across the country.
Edwards encourages the public to comment on the policy before the deadline ends next Monday.
Lawsuit Permitted to Proceed
A judge has ruled the defamation, negligent investigation and malicious prosecution suit launched against the OPP by a former grand chief of Grand Council of Treaty No. 3 can proceed to trial.
Superior Court Justice Donald Gordon made the ruling on Leon Jourdain's lawsuit.
Jourdain is suing the police in the aftermath of a sexual assault allegation made against the former grand chief in February, 2004.
Superior Court Justice Donald Gordon made the ruling on Leon Jourdain's lawsuit.
Jourdain is suing the police in the aftermath of a sexual assault allegation made against the former grand chief in February, 2004.
New VP Hired
Rainy Lake Medical Centre in the Falls has a new vice-president of human resources.
Pele Raymond Ugboajah replace Mary Philippe who retired earlier this month.
Ugboajah comes to the centre after having worked as a senior management consultant and executive coach at MDA Leadership Consulting.
Pele Raymond Ugboajah replace Mary Philippe who retired earlier this month.
Ugboajah comes to the centre after having worked as a senior management consultant and executive coach at MDA Leadership Consulting.
New Port of Entry Meeting
The public will get an another opportunity to comment on plans for a new U.S. Customs and Border Protection inspection facility and port of entry in International Falls today.
The U-S General Services Administration will holding two meetings on a draft environmental impact statement.
The GSA has narrowed its selection of sites from ten to five.
An open house will happen at Rainy River Community College at 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. with a public comment period taking place at 7 p.m.
The U-S General Services Administration will holding two meetings on a draft environmental impact statement.
The GSA has narrowed its selection of sites from ten to five.
An open house will happen at Rainy River Community College at 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. with a public comment period taking place at 7 p.m.
Lakes Study Planned
The Ministry of Natural Resources is taking a new approach to how it establishes sport fishing regulations for the area.
Biologist Melissa Mosley says rather a lake-by-lake approach, the MNR will begin collecting data this year from several lakes toward a more regional fisheries management plan.
"It's going to give us a more effective way of getting fisheries information," says Mosley, "as well have statistical confidence on the state of the resource across the zone, not just one specific lakes."
Data from 130 lakes in the Dryden, Kenora and Fort Frances area will be collected this summer to help form the basis of that plan.
Biologist Melissa Mosley says rather a lake-by-lake approach, the MNR will begin collecting data this year from several lakes toward a more regional fisheries management plan.
"It's going to give us a more effective way of getting fisheries information," says Mosley, "as well have statistical confidence on the state of the resource across the zone, not just one specific lakes."
Data from 130 lakes in the Dryden, Kenora and Fort Frances area will be collected this summer to help form the basis of that plan.
Snowmobile Trails Patrolled
A lack of proper registration, trail permits, even valid driving licenses is forcing some area snowmobilers to be out of pocket $15-hundred.
OPP laid seven charges during a recent snowmobile patrol which Constable Anne McCoy says was done to ensure sledders are following the rules.
"We have to make sure people have the proper insurance," says McCoy, "they're licensed drivers and are operating their sleds within the speed limits. That makes everyone safe who uses the trails."
During last Thursday's patrol, three machines had to towed off the trails after police found operators to be driving without a valid license .
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Quetico Park fan Honoured
A former park naturalist for Ontario Parks and long time visitor to Quetico Provincial Park is among those being named to the Order of Ontario.
Shirley Peruniak is known as "the heart and soul'' of Quetico, having spent 35-years studying and promoting the park as one of world-renowned wilderness destinations.
Peruniak officially retired 16 years ago, authored a book about Quetico ten years ago.
She makes her home in Sharbot Lake, north of Kingston, but maintains a cabin in the Atikokan area.
Shirley Peruniak is known as "the heart and soul'' of Quetico, having spent 35-years studying and promoting the park as one of world-renowned wilderness destinations.
Peruniak officially retired 16 years ago, authored a book about Quetico ten years ago.
She makes her home in Sharbot Lake, north of Kingston, but maintains a cabin in the Atikokan area.
DNR Talking Trash
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is getting annoyed with the number of bottles, cans and other garbage that's being left on area lakes.
But the Department says identifying the perpetrators is the biggest problem.
Ken Soring, Enforcement manager for the northeast region says wind can also make it difficult to prove where the trash come from and there's not enough Conservation officers to thoroughly enforce litter laws.
Litter is a petty misdemeanour criminal charge in Minnesota with a fine of up to 300-dollars.
But the Department says identifying the perpetrators is the biggest problem.
Ken Soring, Enforcement manager for the northeast region says wind can also make it difficult to prove where the trash come from and there's not enough Conservation officers to thoroughly enforce litter laws.
Litter is a petty misdemeanour criminal charge in Minnesota with a fine of up to 300-dollars.
Legal Aid Concerns Lingers
Opposition critics say a promise to increase fees for legal aid lawyers does little to solve some of the key problems saddling the province's legal system.
Ontario agreed to increase the rates paid to lawyers in the cash-strapped program in a bid to end a months-long boycott that threatened to escalate over the weekend.
But New Democrat Howard Hampton says the deal doesn't address the bigger problems in Ontario's legal system, like the difficulty for people to get a legal aid certificate in the first place.
He also worries that the government will pay for budget increases_ estimated by some to become as high as $80 million _ by making it even more difficult to get those certificates.
OPP Now Tweeting
The Ontario Provincial Police force is joining the social media movement by starting up a Twitter account.
It will include news releases and other messages.
Last year, an American social media consultant visited Canada to teach police how to make better use of social networking sites to fight crime.
It will include news releases and other messages.
Last year, an American social media consultant visited Canada to teach police how to make better use of social networking sites to fight crime.
Canada-wide Warrant Issued
A Canada-wide warrant has been issued for a man accused of defrauding at least 21 seniors.
Police are looking for Richard Earl Rupert who is wanted for robbery, break and enter, eight counts of fraud and six counts of theft.
Toronto police started their investigation last November after an 81-year-old woman was mugged.
Tips started rolling in and investigators have pieced together a trail of fraud that stretches from Toronto to St. Catharine's, Waterloo, London, Ottawa and Thunder Bay.
Police are looking for Richard Earl Rupert who is wanted for robbery, break and enter, eight counts of fraud and six counts of theft.
Toronto police started their investigation last November after an 81-year-old woman was mugged.
Tips started rolling in and investigators have pieced together a trail of fraud that stretches from Toronto to St. Catharine's, Waterloo, London, Ottawa and Thunder Bay.
Stunt Driving Charge Laid
A Fort Frances High School student had an experience to talk about during their last day of a co-op education program with the Fort Frances OPP.
While out doing radar patrol with an officer Friday, the duo clocked a vehicle doing 156-kilometres an hour in a 90 zone through Halkirk township, east of Fort Frances.
When the vehicle was stopped, the officer found an unknown quantity of marijuana and Oxycontin.
Along with being faced with drug possession and speeding charges, the 23-year-old woman from Seine River First Nation had her vehicle and driver's license seized for Stunt Driving.
While out doing radar patrol with an officer Friday, the duo clocked a vehicle doing 156-kilometres an hour in a 90 zone through Halkirk township, east of Fort Frances.
When the vehicle was stopped, the officer found an unknown quantity of marijuana and Oxycontin.
Along with being faced with drug possession and speeding charges, the 23-year-old woman from Seine River First Nation had her vehicle and driver's license seized for Stunt Driving.
Snowmobilers Charged
A busy day for Fort Frances OPP on the snowmobile trails last week.
Officers issued seven charges against sledders last Thursday resulting in fines of more than 15-hundred dollars.
Most of the charges related to riders not having proper registration, trail permits or insurance.
However three machines had to be towed off the trails after police found operators to be driving without valid licenses.
Officers issued seven charges against sledders last Thursday resulting in fines of more than 15-hundred dollars.
Most of the charges related to riders not having proper registration, trail permits or insurance.
However three machines had to be towed off the trails after police found operators to be driving without valid licenses.
Local Sports for Tuesday January 26
Fort Frances Lakers will be looking for a third straight win on home ice tonight when they meet the Dryden Ice Dogs.
Game time at the Ice for Kids Arena is 7:30 p.m.
A pair of games for the International Falls Broncos today.
The boys hockey team is in Ely.
The boys basketball team hosts Tower-Soudan - 7:30 at Falls High School.
Game time at the Ice for Kids Arena is 7:30 p.m.
A pair of games for the International Falls Broncos today.
The boys hockey team is in Ely.
The boys basketball team hosts Tower-Soudan - 7:30 at Falls High School.
Former Owner of CFOB Named to Order
A former owner of CFOB Radio has been appointed to the Order of Ontario.
Thunder Bay's Fraser Dougall was one of 29 named to the order by Lieutenant Governor David Onley.
Dougall briefly owned CFOB radio in the early 1970's.
Thunder Bay's Fraser Dougall was one of 29 named to the order by Lieutenant Governor David Onley.
Dougall briefly owned CFOB radio in the early 1970's.
Conservation Club Meets
A meeting tonight for members of the Fort Frances Conservation Club.
Jack Hedman, past-president of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and representatives from the Ministry of Natural Resources, will be guest speakers.
The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau.
Jack Hedman, past-president of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and representatives from the Ministry of Natural Resources, will be guest speakers.
The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau.
School Fundraisers for Haiti
The fundraising for the Haiti relief effort continues in area schools.
Crossroads School's Kids Care Club and its student council are collecting coins this week for the Free the Children organization.
Sturgeon Creek School is also collecting donations and will hold its "Soup for Haiti" fundraiser tomorrow.
At Riverview School in Rainy River, more than four-hundred dollars has been raised so far from a variety of activities.
Crossroads School's Kids Care Club and its student council are collecting coins this week for the Free the Children organization.
Sturgeon Creek School is also collecting donations and will hold its "Soup for Haiti" fundraiser tomorrow.
At Riverview School in Rainy River, more than four-hundred dollars has been raised so far from a variety of activities.
Albanese Elected Chair
Fort Frances councillor John Albanese has been returned as Chair of the Northwestern Health Unit.
Albanese, who has served in that capacity for the past six years, says he wanted to remain as chair as the Health Unit seeks accreditation.
"We're right in the midst of accreditation which will take place in April or May," says Albanese.
Albanese, a provincial appointee, says his election as chair also provides some continuity to the board in an election year for the municipal appointees.
Albanese, who has served in that capacity for the past six years, says he wanted to remain as chair as the Health Unit seeks accreditation.
"We're right in the midst of accreditation which will take place in April or May," says Albanese.
Albanese, a provincial appointee, says his election as chair also provides some continuity to the board in an election year for the municipal appointees.
Easier Access to Town Documents Coming
The purchase of new computer technology is going to make it easier to access information from the town of Fort Frances.
Councillor Sharon Tibbs says the purchase through iCompass Technologies will allow items such as council agendas and by-laws to be more readily available through the town's website.
"It means accessible and transparency of the materials that we deal with will be more accessible by the public," says Tibbs.
Town clerk Glenn Treftlin says it also helps the town meet pending legislation.
"It's certainly an opportunity for the town to take a stride towards meetings some of the requirements coming due in January next year," says Treftlin, "with regards to communication accessibility standards that are being imposed by the province."
The system, costing about $15-thousand, is expected to be in place later this spring.
Councillor Sharon Tibbs says the purchase through iCompass Technologies will allow items such as council agendas and by-laws to be more readily available through the town's website.
"It means accessible and transparency of the materials that we deal with will be more accessible by the public," says Tibbs.
Town clerk Glenn Treftlin says it also helps the town meet pending legislation.
"It's certainly an opportunity for the town to take a stride towards meetings some of the requirements coming due in January next year," says Treftlin, "with regards to communication accessibility standards that are being imposed by the province."
The system, costing about $15-thousand, is expected to be in place later this spring.
Fines Wiped Off Books
The town of Fort Frances has been forced to write-off more than $105-thousand in unpaid fines from its books.
Treasurer Laurie Witherspoon says it doesn't mean those owing the provincial offences act fines won't have to pay them ever again.
"Although we are doing a write-off, it is for accounting purposes only, " says Witherspoon. "P.O.A. fines are not absolved. They are for a convicted offender and still required to pay the fine and out it in perpetuity."
The unpaid fines date back to 2003.
Councillor Paul Ryan says the inability to collect the fines, even by a collections' agency, left to the town having write them off.
"A lot of these are so old," says Ryan. "We don't have a reciprocal agreement between Ontario and Manitoba. The fine is given in Ontario, but they don't collect it for us. Unless the person returns to the scene, it's pretty hard in some cases to track these down."
Treasurer Laurie Witherspoon says it doesn't mean those owing the provincial offences act fines won't have to pay them ever again.
"Although we are doing a write-off, it is for accounting purposes only, " says Witherspoon. "P.O.A. fines are not absolved. They are for a convicted offender and still required to pay the fine and out it in perpetuity."
The unpaid fines date back to 2003.
Councillor Paul Ryan says the inability to collect the fines, even by a collections' agency, left to the town having write them off.
"A lot of these are so old," says Ryan. "We don't have a reciprocal agreement between Ontario and Manitoba. The fine is given in Ontario, but they don't collect it for us. Unless the person returns to the scene, it's pretty hard in some cases to track these down."
2009 OPP Statistics Outlined
OPP are noticing a decline in the amount of crime taking place in Fort Frances.
Detachment Commander, Inspector John Kendrick outlined the numbers to town councillors Monday.
OPP responded to more than 43-hundred calls for service last year, a 3 per cent increase over the year before.
There were 212 incidents of violent crime, down from 265 in 2007.
Kendrick says common assault remains the leading type of violent crime and many assaults are alcohol related.
Property crimes have also shown a steady decline from 2003 when there 658 incidents.
There were 429 reported in 2009.
Local Sports for Monday January 25
T-J Pocock earned his first win in net for the Fort Frances Lakers Saturday, stopping 29 shots in a 3-1 win over the Wisconsin Mustangs at the Ice for Kids Arena.
Mustangs ended Pocock's bid for a shutout with a goal two minutes remaining.
Justin Erhart, Matthew Caufield and Tyler Stephenson had the Laker goals.
Fort Frances Muskies boys' hockey team did all of its scoring in the first period in a 7-2 thumping of Red Lake Falls.
Devin Stomness had 31 saves in net.
International Falls Broncos boys' hockey team battled to a 3-3 overtime tie with Virginia Friday.
Brandon Richards, Jon McDonald, and Jordan Christianson had the Broncos goals
Glenn Wals had 29 saves in goal.
Elsewhere, the Broncos girls' hockey team lost 3-1 to Silver Bay on Friday.
Amy Auran the lone scorer.
The Broncos girls' basketball team lost 55-32 to Two Harbours on Friday.
In girls Atom hockey action over the weekend - both house league teams participated in tournaments.
The Fort Frances Kaemingh Esso won the B side of a Dryden tournament - with a score of 2 - 1 in a shootout.
Maighyn Degagne scored in regulation time while Alyssa Alderson and Siobhan Mackintosh scored in the shoot-out.
The Rolling Lake Lightning won the B side at an International Falls event over the weekend with a score of 7 - 2 in the final.
Lauren Hamilton and Annalise Hayes each had 2 goals, and Shannon Bird, Breanna Dustin and Abby Plourde each notching a goal.
Mustangs ended Pocock's bid for a shutout with a goal two minutes remaining.
Justin Erhart, Matthew Caufield and Tyler Stephenson had the Laker goals.
Fort Frances Muskies boys' hockey team did all of its scoring in the first period in a 7-2 thumping of Red Lake Falls.
Devin Stomness had 31 saves in net.
International Falls Broncos boys' hockey team battled to a 3-3 overtime tie with Virginia Friday.
Brandon Richards, Jon McDonald, and Jordan Christianson had the Broncos goals
Glenn Wals had 29 saves in goal.
Elsewhere, the Broncos girls' hockey team lost 3-1 to Silver Bay on Friday.
Amy Auran the lone scorer.
The Broncos girls' basketball team lost 55-32 to Two Harbours on Friday.
In girls Atom hockey action over the weekend - both house league teams participated in tournaments.
The Fort Frances Kaemingh Esso won the B side of a Dryden tournament - with a score of 2 - 1 in a shootout.
Maighyn Degagne scored in regulation time while Alyssa Alderson and Siobhan Mackintosh scored in the shoot-out.
The Rolling Lake Lightning won the B side at an International Falls event over the weekend with a score of 7 - 2 in the final.
Lauren Hamilton and Annalise Hayes each had 2 goals, and Shannon Bird, Breanna Dustin and Abby Plourde each notching a goal.
Friendly Cold War Waged
The debate over who's the chilliest in Minnesota was waged on national television Sunday.
International Falls, Tower and Embarrass were featured on the CBS Morning Show and the Weather Channel.
While the Falls claims to be the Ice Box of the Nation, the average low temperatures in Tower and Embarrass are colder while Tower holds the one-day record of 60 below F on February 2, 1996.
Embarrass recorded an unofficial temperature of 64 below F on that same day after its official reading instruments stopped working at 51 below F.
International Falls, Tower and Embarrass were featured on the CBS Morning Show and the Weather Channel.
While the Falls claims to be the Ice Box of the Nation, the average low temperatures in Tower and Embarrass are colder while Tower holds the one-day record of 60 below F on February 2, 1996.
Embarrass recorded an unofficial temperature of 64 below F on that same day after its official reading instruments stopped working at 51 below F.
Ice Huts to be Registered
The Ministry of Natural Resources says it wants to cut down on abandoned ice fishing huts by requiring all huts to be registered.
The ministry says it doesn't cost anything to register your hut.
Once registered, the hut can be used anywhere in Ontario.
It's also illegal to leave a hut out after ice break up regardless of whether registration and removal dates apply.
The ministry says it doesn't cost anything to register your hut.
Once registered, the hut can be used anywhere in Ontario.
It's also illegal to leave a hut out after ice break up regardless of whether registration and removal dates apply.
Legal Aid Agreement
An agreement between the Ontario government and the Criminal Lawyers' Association has ended a boycott over legal aid payments.
More than one-thousand defence lawyers have been refusing to handle homicide cases as well as gang and gun indictments to press demands for more money from the legal aid system.
The government says the lawyer's hourly fees will increase an average of five per cent per year for the next seven years.
More than one-thousand defence lawyers have been refusing to handle homicide cases as well as gang and gun indictments to press demands for more money from the legal aid system.
The government says the lawyer's hourly fees will increase an average of five per cent per year for the next seven years.
Contract Talks Halted
Contact talks between AbitibiBowater and the Communications Energy and Paperworkers Union have been suspended until March.
The adjournment late Friday came after a week of union deliberations over discussions with governments and the company concerning the company's insolvent pension plan.
C.E.P. President Dave Coles says there's been some progress, but the union still need support from the federal government.
The adjournment late Friday came after a week of union deliberations over discussions with governments and the company concerning the company's insolvent pension plan.
C.E.P. President Dave Coles says there's been some progress, but the union still need support from the federal government.
Mill Production Resumes
Operations at the AbitibiBowater mill in Fort Frances were able to resume on the weekend following corrections to a problem with its effluent system.
The company cited cold weather last Tuesday for the system to exceed its biochemical oxygen demand limit and force an unplanned shutdown.
The halt in production did not result in any layoffs.
The company cited cold weather last Tuesday for the system to exceed its biochemical oxygen demand limit and force an unplanned shutdown.
The halt in production did not result in any layoffs.
Samsung Deal Panned
Kenora-Rainy River M.P.P. Howard Hampton is warning area residents to brace themselves for higher electricity prices in the future.
Hampton suggests the seven billion dollars green electricity deal the province signed last week with Samsung will lead to just that.
"If you look at the contracts signed already by the Ontario Power Authority, some of these outfits are getting paid rates of almost 20-cents an hour," says Hampton. "When that starts to hit peoples hydro bills, the rate is going go up even higher."
Hampton adds the energy deal will have no economic benefit for northern Ontario because all the wind and solar projects will be located in southern Ontario.
Hampton suggests the seven billion dollars green electricity deal the province signed last week with Samsung will lead to just that.
"If you look at the contracts signed already by the Ontario Power Authority, some of these outfits are getting paid rates of almost 20-cents an hour," says Hampton. "When that starts to hit peoples hydro bills, the rate is going go up even higher."
Hampton adds the energy deal will have no economic benefit for northern Ontario because all the wind and solar projects will be located in southern Ontario.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Comuzzi Appointed Chair
Just days after being appointed to the International Joint Commission, former Thunder Bay MP Joe Comuzzi has been named chair of its Canadian Section.
Comuzzi is no stranger to the IJC.
During his six terms as a member of Parliament, Comuzzi chaired several federal subcommittees that had direct dealings with the IJC that resolves disputes over boundary waters between Canada and the U.S.
Casino Rama Ruling Upheld
The Ontario Court of Appeal has dismissed a claim by a native group that they don't have to share Casino Rama revenues with other First Nations.
The Chippewas claim that under an original deal with the province to build Casino Rama on their land, they are entitled to a 35 per cent share of gambling profits.
More than 133 other First Nations fought the Chippewas claim and won a lower court ruling, which was upheld today by the Court of Appeal.
The Chippewas claim that under an original deal with the province to build Casino Rama on their land, they are entitled to a 35 per cent share of gambling profits.
More than 133 other First Nations fought the Chippewas claim and won a lower court ruling, which was upheld today by the Court of Appeal.
Scam Warning Issued
Officials with TruStar Federal Credit Union are issuing warnings about a nationwide scam that's reached some residents in the International Falls area last night.
A computer-voiced telephone message, targeting residents with a 2-4-0 prefix and a 2-1-8 area code, asked them to enter personal identification to activate or confirm their debit or ATM cards.
The credit union believe the callers are randomly dialing numbers in an attempt to reach its customers.
Neither the credit union nor its members have been financially impacted by the calls.
International Falls Police, along with officials from TruStar, CUNA Mutual and Shazam, are investigating.
Local Sports for Friday January 22
Fort Frances Canadians Midget AA hockey team defeated the International Falls Broncos junior varsity team 6-1 last night at the Ice for Kids Arena.
Brad McDonald with a pair, Dillan Grinsell, Tyler Fontana, Chris Bobczynski and Brandon Sinclair scored for the Canadians.
They'll travel to Baudette today for an exhibition game against the Lake of the Woods Bears Junior Varsity team beginning at 5 p.m.
Tomorrow they will travel to Grand Rapids.
International Falls Broncos girls' basketball team made it two in a row with a 57-37 win over the Eveleth-Gilbert Golden Bears.
The Broncos continue action tonight in Two Harbours.
Elsewhere, the Broncos boys' basketball team is in Proctor.
The Broncos boys' hockey team will host Virginia - 7:30 at Broncos Arena - and the girls' hockey team travels to Silver Bay.
Brad McDonald with a pair, Dillan Grinsell, Tyler Fontana, Chris Bobczynski and Brandon Sinclair scored for the Canadians.
They'll travel to Baudette today for an exhibition game against the Lake of the Woods Bears Junior Varsity team beginning at 5 p.m.
Tomorrow they will travel to Grand Rapids.
International Falls Broncos girls' basketball team made it two in a row with a 57-37 win over the Eveleth-Gilbert Golden Bears.
The Broncos continue action tonight in Two Harbours.
Elsewhere, the Broncos boys' basketball team is in Proctor.
The Broncos boys' hockey team will host Virginia - 7:30 at Broncos Arena - and the girls' hockey team travels to Silver Bay.
Alzheimer's Fundraisers
It's going to be a busy weekend for the Alzheimer's Society of Kenora-Rainy River.
Executive Director Margaret Schonewille says they'll kick it off with the annual Penny for your Thoughts" fundraiser.
"Friday night and Saturday night we'll be doing our 'Penny for your Thoughts' weigh-in at Canadian Tire," says Schonewille. "You don't have get weighed. You don't get on the scales only your pennies do. They don't have to be rolled, you don't have, but if you want to roll them that saves me work on the other end."
This will be followed by the “The Linda Johnston Memorial Alzheimer Dinner to Remember.” in Rainy River and Sunday's Chefs' Charitable Dinner and Auction at the Adventure Inn.
Executive Director Margaret Schonewille says they'll kick it off with the annual Penny for your Thoughts" fundraiser.
"Friday night and Saturday night we'll be doing our 'Penny for your Thoughts' weigh-in at Canadian Tire," says Schonewille. "You don't have get weighed. You don't get on the scales only your pennies do. They don't have to be rolled, you don't have, but if you want to roll them that saves me work on the other end."
This will be followed by the “The Linda Johnston Memorial Alzheimer Dinner to Remember.” in Rainy River and Sunday's Chefs' Charitable Dinner and Auction at the Adventure Inn.
P.L.A.Y. Launched
(Back Row: Chief Norm Hardisty of Moose Cree First Nation, Robert Witchel of Right to Play, Minister Brad Duguid, Minister Chris Bentley, Grand Chief Stan Beardy of Nishnawbe Aski Nation. Front Row: Darlene Isaac, Aurora Delaney, Olympic and World Champion Sami Jo Small and Adrian Delaney gathered at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto to launch P.L.A.Y.)
A new partnership between the Government of Ontario and Right To Play will promote a healthy and active lifestyle for Aboriginal youth through sport and recreation.
Promoting Life-skills for Aboriginal Youth (P.L.A.Y.) is a pilot project being developed by Right To Play.
Promoting Life-skills for Aboriginal Youth (P.L.A.Y.) is a pilot project being developed by Right To Play.
It will first be offered in Moose Cree First Nation before brought to other first nation communities.
The program uses sport and recreation to develop leadership skills and provide youth with opportunities that may not otherwise be available in their community.
The program uses sport and recreation to develop leadership skills and provide youth with opportunities that may not otherwise be available in their community.
It is based on similar sport and play programs run by Right To Play.
Schools Join in on Fundraising
Area school are getting behind fundraising efforts for Haiti.
Crossroad's School's Kids Care Club and and its student council have organized a fundraising drive for next week that seeks to collect funds for the Free the Children organization.
At Sturgeon Creek, the school will hold a "Soup for Haiti" fundraiser next Wednesday.
The Rainy River District School Board office is also collecting monetary donations its staff.
Crossroad's School's Kids Care Club and and its student council have organized a fundraising drive for next week that seeks to collect funds for the Free the Children organization.
At Sturgeon Creek, the school will hold a "Soup for Haiti" fundraiser next Wednesday.
The Rainy River District School Board office is also collecting monetary donations its staff.
"Dalton Day" Up in the Air
Ontario labour leaders say they remain uncertain whether "Dalton Days'' are on the horizon.
Yesterday, about 20 union representatives met with Finance Minister Dwight Duncan to discuss the next provincial budget, but says it's not clear if government workers will have to take unpaid days off and wage freezes to help the government fight its unprecedented deficit.
Ontario Federation of Labour president Sid Ryan says all options are being considered by the Finance Minister,
Yesterday, about 20 union representatives met with Finance Minister Dwight Duncan to discuss the next provincial budget, but says it's not clear if government workers will have to take unpaid days off and wage freezes to help the government fight its unprecedented deficit.
Ontario Federation of Labour president Sid Ryan says all options are being considered by the Finance Minister,
Rickford Fights Back
The war of words over the HST continues in the Kenora riding.
Federal NDP accuse the Conservative M-P Greg Rickford of misleading constituents by saying it's not a federal issue, but Rickford says its the NDP who are not telling the whole truth.
"They have certainly gone a long way to confuse the issue," says Rickford. "This is squarely a provincial issue. The federal government's involvement in this is to respect the province's autonomy in taxation."
Rickford says Thunder Bay-Superior North MP Bruce Hyer, who was in Dryden and Sioux Lookout, should be spending more time in his riding speaking to his constituents about real issues of concern.
Hyer and Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty have been calling on the federal government to cancel a $4.3 billion dollar payment to help Ontario with merging of the provincial sales tax with the federal good and services tax this July.
Cattle Markets Discussed
An official with the Ministry of Agriculture says a new abattoir to open next week in Emo will put the district's cattle producers in a good position to help sell their products to local consumers.
Barry Potter a livestock specialist says by building a brand, local producers can actually take advantage of a local market that's somewhat distant from others in the country.
"So there's an opportunity for local producers to connect with local consumers and supply them with food," says Potter. "Certainly there's a lot of interest from consumers in knowing about where there food comes from and connecting with local farmers"
Potter says the Ministry has established a number of programs to help cattle farmers establish those brands.
Establishing a stronger local market is one of the ways officials say can help offset losses due to difficulties entering the United States market.
Matt Bowman, northern Ontario's representative to the Ontario Cattlemen's Association, says a number of factors are at play that's making it increasingly difficult to market stateside.
"Country-of-origin labelling caused us some issues this past year," says Bowman. "We're beginning to understand how it that's going to effect us in the bigger term. Older cattle is still an issue. The disparity of regulations between the two country also hurts. We have a few more stiffer regulations than they do so that adds a few dollars to our cost of production here."
Bowman says the federation has activity lobbied government for assistance and feels they have been making some progress.
Board of Health Elections Today
Board elections top the agenda at today's meeting of the Northwestern Health Unit in Dryden.
Fort Frances councillor John Albanese is seeking another term as chair.
OPP Seeking New Recruits
The help wanted sign is being posted by the Ontario Provincial Police.
Sergeant Darryl Wilson has been recruiting prospective members to the O-P-P for the past decade and says they're are always looking to replenish the ranks.
"A a large organization we are continuously looking for the competitive and suitable candidates," says Wilson, "because were always faced with officers retiring. Yes it's hard times, but we still need to be replacing those who are leaving."
About a dozen individuals attended a recent recruitment session in Fort Frances, but Wilson says they'll always had difficulties convincing people from northwestern Ontario to consider a career in policing.
"I never seem to have the numbers. If a class if going through of the full class a full dozen would be coming to northwestern Ontario. The numbers from the north that started living in the north might be only eight."
Wilson says some feel their age is a deterrent, but notes the last graduating class include a student who was 48-years old.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Local Sports for Thursday January 21
It was another split in games for the Rainy River Voyageurs on the basketball court.
Last night the men's team beat Vermilion 118-88, but the women's lost 62-57
Bantam girls hockey last night saw the BDO Dunwoody Stars defeat Energy Fitness Wild 3-1.
Scoring for the Stars were Shelby Tymkin with a pair and Taylor Hazel.
Shelby Rae had the Wild's lone goal.
In Atom girls play, the Rolling Lake Lightning and the International Falls under-10 girls team skated to a 3-3 draw.
Annalise Hayes had all three goals for the Lightning.
Lexi Edwards, Amber Tillander and Kara Schneider scored for the Falls' team
In Atom girls action from Wednesday night, it was Fort Frances Kaemingh Esso blanking the Emo Penguins 7-0.
Alyssa Alderson and Emma Noga each had hat tricks with Sara Jackson adding the other goal.
Carly McKinnon recorded the shutout.
It's a light high school schedule locally with only the International Falls Broncos girls basketball team in action.
The Broncos will host Eveleth-Gilbert - 7:30 p.m. at Falls High School.
Last night the men's team beat Vermilion 118-88, but the women's lost 62-57
Bantam girls hockey last night saw the BDO Dunwoody Stars defeat Energy Fitness Wild 3-1.
Scoring for the Stars were Shelby Tymkin with a pair and Taylor Hazel.
Shelby Rae had the Wild's lone goal.
In Atom girls play, the Rolling Lake Lightning and the International Falls under-10 girls team skated to a 3-3 draw.
Annalise Hayes had all three goals for the Lightning.
Lexi Edwards, Amber Tillander and Kara Schneider scored for the Falls' team
In Atom girls action from Wednesday night, it was Fort Frances Kaemingh Esso blanking the Emo Penguins 7-0.
Alyssa Alderson and Emma Noga each had hat tricks with Sara Jackson adding the other goal.
Carly McKinnon recorded the shutout.
It's a light high school schedule locally with only the International Falls Broncos girls basketball team in action.
The Broncos will host Eveleth-Gilbert - 7:30 p.m. at Falls High School.
Summer Jobs Money
The federal government is making more money available for businesses in the Rainy River district to help cover the costs of hiring summer students.
Just under $250-thousand will be allocated for the Canada Summer Jobs programs run by Service Canada.
It's an increase of about $31-thousand over last summer.
Employers can apply for the funding beginning February 1st.
Just under $250-thousand will be allocated for the Canada Summer Jobs programs run by Service Canada.
It's an increase of about $31-thousand over last summer.
Employers can apply for the funding beginning February 1st.
Hunting Ban Issued
A Red Lake man has been fined $3,500 and prohibited from hunting in Ontario for two years for illegally hunting deer in the Rainy River District.
The man was charged last November after MNR conservation officers spotting two men walking out of the bush in the Nelles-Patullo Road area, north of Stratton, and get into a truck.
The MNR later found a deer shot in a nearby farmer's field that was dragged to a fence near the road.
The man initially denied shooting the deer, but C.O.'s were able to match the bullet that killed the animal to his riffle.
The man was charged last November after MNR conservation officers spotting two men walking out of the bush in the Nelles-Patullo Road area, north of Stratton, and get into a truck.
The MNR later found a deer shot in a nearby farmer's field that was dragged to a fence near the road.
The man initially denied shooting the deer, but C.O.'s were able to match the bullet that killed the animal to his riffle.
Arts Funds Available
Arts organizations in northern Minnesota, including those in Koochiching County will have until the end of this month to apply for funding from the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council.
Eligible groups can request up to $6,000 per grant application, an increase from the previous amount of $3,500.
The required match for an application has also been decreased from 50 to 20 percent.
Eligible groups can request up to $6,000 per grant application, an increase from the previous amount of $3,500.
The required match for an application has also been decreased from 50 to 20 percent.
Tim Horton's Raises Funds
There's more fundraising taking place in the Rainy River District for the Haitian earthquake relief effort.
Tim Hortons has announced money raised through it's Children's Foundation coin boxes will be donated to UNICEF.
An additional $100-thousand is being donated at the corporate level.
Labour Meets with Cabinet Members
Union leaders with the Ontario Federation of Labour will get an audience today with two key members of the McGuinty Cabinet.
The meeting with Finance Minister Dwight Duncan and Labour Minister Peter Fonseca will focus around jobs and the economy.
OFL President Sid Ryan calls today's meeting a very positive step and is looking for constructive dialogue.
The meeting with Finance Minister Dwight Duncan and Labour Minister Peter Fonseca will focus around jobs and the economy.
OFL President Sid Ryan calls today's meeting a very positive step and is looking for constructive dialogue.
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