The federal and provincial governments are giving non-profit organizations an opportunity to tap in some infrastructure funding.
Under a new program, both the feds and the province will cover 2-thirds of any project approved.
Non-profit organizations would have to cover the remain construction costs.
They have until August 18th to submit applications.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Job Growth Task Force Formed
Minnesota legislators are forming a bi-partisan task force to look at ways of creating job growth in the state.
The task force will be charged with developing a plan for the 2010 legislative session that will build on this past session’s job-growth initiatives.
The task force is expected to begin meeting in August, with chairs and membership to be announced next week.
The task force will be charged with developing a plan for the 2010 legislative session that will build on this past session’s job-growth initiatives.
The task force is expected to begin meeting in August, with chairs and membership to be announced next week.
Golf Classic a Go
American and Canadian golfers will join together to help raise money for the Rainy Lake Medical Centre Foundation.
About 120 golfers will participate in the seventh annual golf classic at the Falls Country Club today.
Foundation director Sage Johnson says money raised goes towards the construction of a new facility.
Over the last two years, about $45,000 has been raised.
About 120 golfers will participate in the seventh annual golf classic at the Falls Country Club today.
Foundation director Sage Johnson says money raised goes towards the construction of a new facility.
Over the last two years, about $45,000 has been raised.
Chapple Heritage Recognized
Chapple Heritage Days goes this weekend.
It's taking place at the farm of Steve and Joan Both.
Chair of Chapple's Heritage Committee Rilla Race says it's an opportunity to celebrate the area's heritage.
"We've been doing this since 2000," says Race. "It started actually in 1999 with our Chapple centennial. Since that time we've just had a weekend and its our ninth year.
Among the events include a bonfire on tonight, and a tractor parade, a wood loading demonstration and saddle horse events tomorrow.
While the event is free, Race says they use it to raise funds for the operation of the Chapple Museum in Barwick.
The event is also used
It's taking place at the farm of Steve and Joan Both.
Chair of Chapple's Heritage Committee Rilla Race says it's an opportunity to celebrate the area's heritage.
"We've been doing this since 2000," says Race. "It started actually in 1999 with our Chapple centennial. Since that time we've just had a weekend and its our ninth year.
Among the events include a bonfire on tonight, and a tractor parade, a wood loading demonstration and saddle horse events tomorrow.
While the event is free, Race says they use it to raise funds for the operation of the Chapple Museum in Barwick.
The event is also used
Old Flares Wanted
Ontario Provincial Police are giving area boaters an opportunity to discard old marine flares in a safe manner.
For a one week period beginning tomorrow, boaters can bring the flares to any OPP detachment.
Sergeant Shelly Garr says its important to regularly check the expiry date of those flares.
"It's an issue of safety," says Garr. "Sometimes we receive quite old marine flares. We don't want these things lying around on people garages or just in storage. We'd rather have them brought to a safe place and have them disposed of in a safe manner."
Flares collected will be transported to a facility in Quebec for disposal.
For a one week period beginning tomorrow, boaters can bring the flares to any OPP detachment.
Sergeant Shelly Garr says its important to regularly check the expiry date of those flares.
"It's an issue of safety," says Garr. "Sometimes we receive quite old marine flares. We don't want these things lying around on people garages or just in storage. We'd rather have them brought to a safe place and have them disposed of in a safe manner."
Flares collected will be transported to a facility in Quebec for disposal.
Airport Worries Eased
Officials at the airport in International Falls are trying to ease travellers concerns about Delta Airlines announced plans to end air service.
Delta announced earlier this month it would cease service as it seeks assistance under a federal subsidy program to continue air services at several small airports, including the Falls.
Chair of the International Falls-Koochiching County Airport Commission Bob Anderson says the move is just the first step in the process, and will result in more consistent service at the airport over the long-term.
Delta announced earlier this month it would cease service as it seeks assistance under a federal subsidy program to continue air services at several small airports, including the Falls.
Chair of the International Falls-Koochiching County Airport Commission Bob Anderson says the move is just the first step in the process, and will result in more consistent service at the airport over the long-term.
New Mill Manager
There will be a new manager at Boise's mill in International Falls.
Bert Brown takes over the position effect tomorrow.
Brown has been at the mill since March 2008, and its operations manager since last October.
Current manager, Terry Ward, who is also Vice-president of Minnesota Operations, is being relocated to the company's headquarters in Idaho as the new Vice-president of Supply chain.
Bert Brown takes over the position effect tomorrow.
Brown has been at the mill since March 2008, and its operations manager since last October.
Current manager, Terry Ward, who is also Vice-president of Minnesota Operations, is being relocated to the company's headquarters in Idaho as the new Vice-president of Supply chain.
Park Protest Planned
There are more protests planned at some provincial parks in southern Ontario this weekend.
Student workers plan to stop vehicles to inform park users vacation and holiday pay is being denied to 3,400 high school, college and university students working for the province this summer.
Students received such pay in the past, but the government said this year the Crown is exempt from that section of the Employment Standards Act.
That decision also impacts students working at parks in northwestern Ontario, but there are no plans yet for any protests.
Student workers plan to stop vehicles to inform park users vacation and holiday pay is being denied to 3,400 high school, college and university students working for the province this summer.
Students received such pay in the past, but the government said this year the Crown is exempt from that section of the Employment Standards Act.
That decision also impacts students working at parks in northwestern Ontario, but there are no plans yet for any protests.
Portage Avenue Underpass Closure Revised
A planned closure of the Portage Avenue underpass has been extended.
The town of Fort Frances says the underpass will be closed beginning next Tuesday at 9:00 a.m., reopening Friday August 7th at 4:00 p.m.
Initial closure plans called for that section of Portage to be shutdown beginning Wednesday to replace the sanitary sewage line.
The underpass will be open to one lane of traffic this weekend.
The town of Fort Frances says the underpass will be closed beginning next Tuesday at 9:00 a.m., reopening Friday August 7th at 4:00 p.m.
Initial closure plans called for that section of Portage to be shutdown beginning Wednesday to replace the sanitary sewage line.
The underpass will be open to one lane of traffic this weekend.
More Firefighting Help to B.C.
More forest fire fighting resources from Ontario are being dispatched to fire-ravaged British Columbia.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says over 230 firefighters and support staff will leave for the west coast from Sudbury and Dryden tomorrow. About half will come from northwestern Ontario.
It's the fourth deployment this month and brings to 570 the number of MNR personnel to head to B.C.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says over 230 firefighters and support staff will leave for the west coast from Sudbury and Dryden tomorrow. About half will come from northwestern Ontario.
It's the fourth deployment this month and brings to 570 the number of MNR personnel to head to B.C.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Lipizzaner Stallions Coming
The "world famous" Lipizzaner Stallions are coming to Fort Frances.
A performance at the 52 Canadians Arena on August 28th is part of a 40th-anniversary tour through northwestern Ontario.
Tickets for the show, presented by B-93, are now on sale at Northwoods Gallery and Gifts or from Tickets-dot-com.
A performance at the 52 Canadians Arena on August 28th is part of a 40th-anniversary tour through northwestern Ontario.
Tickets for the show, presented by B-93, are now on sale at Northwoods Gallery and Gifts or from Tickets-dot-com.
Halt in Logging Requested
An environmental group is urging Ontario to halt all logging and road building in endangered woodland caribou habitat.
The Wildlands League says six out of nine known populations below the 51st parallel are at risk of collapsing.
The group says the habitats of six caribou populations have already been disturbed by logging and fires and may not be able to sustain the animals.
Woodland caribou are among the first species to be actively protected under Ontario's new Endangered Species Act.
The Wildlands League says six out of nine known populations below the 51st parallel are at risk of collapsing.
The group says the habitats of six caribou populations have already been disturbed by logging and fires and may not be able to sustain the animals.
Woodland caribou are among the first species to be actively protected under Ontario's new Endangered Species Act.
Supportive Housing Funding
The North West Local Health Integration Network is investing over 188-thousand dollars in the region.
The money will go towards 16 supportive housing units to help people living with addictions increase stability and security in their lives.
The supportive housing units will also help reduce pressure on hospital emergency rooms.
A list of specific housing units benefiting has not been released.
The money will go towards 16 supportive housing units to help people living with addictions increase stability and security in their lives.
The supportive housing units will also help reduce pressure on hospital emergency rooms.
A list of specific housing units benefiting has not been released.
"JUST DRIVE" Campaign
("Just Drive" billboard posted on the rear of a transport to alert drivers of things they shouldn't be doing when driving - Photo Courtesy Highway Safety Committee in NWO)Eating, using your cellphone and texting while driving are all activities the Highway Safety Committee in Northwestern Ontario wants to eliminate.
It's launched a new campaign called "Just Drive."
OPP Sergeant Rod Brown says that message will also be posted on the back of area transport trucks.
"It's a matter of trying to raise this awareness so people start thinking about it," says Brown, "and are less accepting of the person they are driving with or other motorists when they see them trying to text-message, receive e-mails, talk on the phone or do other things that takes their mind off the road and the task at hand and that's driving."
A provincial ban on the use of cellphones while driving comes into effect in October.
Health Unit to Check Camp Water Systems
The Northwestern Health Unit is taking over the responsibilities of testing the water systems at area resorts and fly-in fishing camps from the Ministry of Environment.
To help, the province is providing the health unit with more than 300-thousand dollars for travel and training.
The Health Unit estimates it will take about three years to inspect the more than 12-hundred water systems in the Kenora and Rainy River districts.
To help, the province is providing the health unit with more than 300-thousand dollars for travel and training.
The Health Unit estimates it will take about three years to inspect the more than 12-hundred water systems in the Kenora and Rainy River districts.
Border Numbers Decline in May
The number of Americans visiting northwestern Ontario continues to decline.
Statistics Canada says about 32-thousand Americans entered Canada at the border in Fort Frances in May
That's about 2-thousand fewer crossings than the same period in 2008.
At Rainy River, 6-thousand entered Canada, a drop of about 500 from a year ago.
Statistics Canada says about 32-thousand Americans entered Canada at the border in Fort Frances in May
That's about 2-thousand fewer crossings than the same period in 2008.
At Rainy River, 6-thousand entered Canada, a drop of about 500 from a year ago.
Deer Problems Reviewed
Public awareness and education is being seen as the most practical solution in dealing with deer in the town of Fort Frances.
Town officials met recently with representatives from the Ministry of Natural Resources.
The Ministry supports the town's wildlife feeding by-law which prohibits the feeding of deer within town limits, but feels it will still be a couple of years before the deer are impacted.
Plans are in the work to have Ministry personnel discuss the district's deer population and how it relates to Fort Frances at an upcoming council meeting.
Town officials met recently with representatives from the Ministry of Natural Resources.
The Ministry supports the town's wildlife feeding by-law which prohibits the feeding of deer within town limits, but feels it will still be a couple of years before the deer are impacted.
Plans are in the work to have Ministry personnel discuss the district's deer population and how it relates to Fort Frances at an upcoming council meeting.
State Aid Front and Centre
A loss in state aid is the focus of attention of the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities this week.
The state's municipal representatives are in Brainard after their annual conference.
International Falls City Administrator Rod Otterness says the lost of state aid has impacted many communities.
"Rural communities are in a position where they don't have sufficient property taxing ability to pay for necessary municipal services for their communities," says Otterness. "Local government aid was developed over thirty years ago to address this problem."
International Falls will lose over $700-thousand in state aid over the next two years.
Otterness says with Governor Tim Pawlenty stepping down next year, municipal lobbying efforts over the next few months will be aimed at key their representatives in the state legislature.
The state's municipal representatives are in Brainard after their annual conference.
International Falls City Administrator Rod Otterness says the lost of state aid has impacted many communities.
"Rural communities are in a position where they don't have sufficient property taxing ability to pay for necessary municipal services for their communities," says Otterness. "Local government aid was developed over thirty years ago to address this problem."
International Falls will lose over $700-thousand in state aid over the next two years.
Otterness says with Governor Tim Pawlenty stepping down next year, municipal lobbying efforts over the next few months will be aimed at key their representatives in the state legislature.
Tax Bills Now Out
Residents living in the province's unorganized townships are just now beginning to receive their tax bills.
The bills were to be issued at the end of June.
A Ministry of Revenue spokesperson says because of a change in the billing process, the ministry wanted to ensure there were no mistakes before they were sent own.
Anna Giannini says instalment dates for payment of August 15th and September 15 will remain in place.
The bills were to be issued at the end of June.
A Ministry of Revenue spokesperson says because of a change in the billing process, the ministry wanted to ensure there were no mistakes before they were sent own.
Anna Giannini says instalment dates for payment of August 15th and September 15 will remain in place.
Hampton Speaks Out
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says residents concern with plans of a native youth centre in Alberton township are unfounded.
Hampton spoke to township council last night about Weechi-it-ti-win Family Services' plans to relocate its Training and Learning Centre to property on Highway 11 near Ducharme Road. He
says residents should not fear the centre.
"These kids are no kids in trouble with criminal law," says Hampton. "These kids who are in need of help. They're kids who are at-risk and that's why children's aid societies establish group homes to help kids like that and help them integrate into the community."
Hampton says concerns expressed in Alberton are not unlike those expressed when T-L-C first opened in Watten township and says those worries proved be to untrue.
Council is expected to review the rezoning application at its next meeting in August.
Hampton spoke to township council last night about Weechi-it-ti-win Family Services' plans to relocate its Training and Learning Centre to property on Highway 11 near Ducharme Road. He
says residents should not fear the centre.
"These kids are no kids in trouble with criminal law," says Hampton. "These kids who are in need of help. They're kids who are at-risk and that's why children's aid societies establish group homes to help kids like that and help them integrate into the community."
Hampton says concerns expressed in Alberton are not unlike those expressed when T-L-C first opened in Watten township and says those worries proved be to untrue.
Council is expected to review the rezoning application at its next meeting in August.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Child Care Help in Minnesota
Child care advocates in Minnesota are hoping new legislation will offset the high costs of child care.
Child-care costs in Minnesota are third highest in the country.
James Carlson, director of public policy for Child Care Works, says finding affordable and quality care is difficult in Minnesota, but a bill to direct eight-million in federal stimulus dollars to families needing assistance will help.
"Thirty-eight percent of child care centers charge at or below what the state can reimburse a family for their care," says Carlson. "In addition, 45 to 48 percent of family care providers are collecting money at or below what the state can reimburse."
Carlson says by helping these families pay for child care, low-wage workers can remain in the work force.
Child-care costs in Minnesota are third highest in the country.
James Carlson, director of public policy for Child Care Works, says finding affordable and quality care is difficult in Minnesota, but a bill to direct eight-million in federal stimulus dollars to families needing assistance will help.
"Thirty-eight percent of child care centers charge at or below what the state can reimburse a family for their care," says Carlson. "In addition, 45 to 48 percent of family care providers are collecting money at or below what the state can reimburse."
Carlson says by helping these families pay for child care, low-wage workers can remain in the work force.
More MNR Help to B.C.
A third contingent of Ministry of Natural Resources personnel is head to British Columbia to aid in that province's forest fire fighting efforts.
Two Incident Command Teams – one each from East Fire and West Fire Region – comprised of 19 members each are scheduled to head to the west coast today.
The teams provides leadership and management on large fire incidents.
This latest deployment brings to 333 the number of MNR personnel in B.C.
Two Incident Command Teams – one each from East Fire and West Fire Region – comprised of 19 members each are scheduled to head to the west coast today.
The teams provides leadership and management on large fire incidents.
This latest deployment brings to 333 the number of MNR personnel in B.C.
"The Gathering" Comes to End
An effort to improve opportunities for native employment in the Rainy River district has come to an end.
NCDS, who facilitated the project called "The Gathering," has decided to discontinue its management of the roundtables.
In a letter to participants, the agency cites the project has "run afoul with politics."
Coordinator Paul Pirie says the roundtables did achieve some success with rejuvenated high school programs, increased community involvement by elders and a relaxing of territorial boundaries for construction apprentices.
NCDS, who facilitated the project called "The Gathering," has decided to discontinue its management of the roundtables.
In a letter to participants, the agency cites the project has "run afoul with politics."
Coordinator Paul Pirie says the roundtables did achieve some success with rejuvenated high school programs, increased community involvement by elders and a relaxing of territorial boundaries for construction apprentices.
Planning Documents Get Review
Alberton's township council will hold a special meeting tonight to review its official plan and zoning by-laws.
The review comes in the wake of opposition to a rezoning application which would pave the way for Weechi-it-ti-win Family Services to relocate its Training and Learning Centre to property currently owned by the Arpin Family.
Council said at its meeting last month that it would revisit the application following a review of its planning documents.
The review comes in the wake of opposition to a rezoning application which would pave the way for Weechi-it-ti-win Family Services to relocate its Training and Learning Centre to property currently owned by the Arpin Family.
Council said at its meeting last month that it would revisit the application following a review of its planning documents.
Doctors Seek Halt to Health Changes
Ontario doctors want the province to delay any major health care restructuring plans until a recently appointed panel makes its recommendations.
The government created the Rural and Northern Health Care Panel to recommend steps to improve access to care in those regions.
The Ontario Medical Association says the government should order Local Health Integration Networks and hospitals in rural and northern communities to put a hold on restructuring plans.
OMA President Dr. Suzanne Strasberg says doctors want a formal consultation process to ensure that the public and health care providers have their say before any decisions are made.
Strasberg says physicians can provide valuable input to help ensure decisions are made without compromising quality and timely access to health care services.
The OMA also wants the government's strategy to formally recognize the differing health care needs in isolated and rural communities.
The government created the Rural and Northern Health Care Panel to recommend steps to improve access to care in those regions.
The Ontario Medical Association says the government should order Local Health Integration Networks and hospitals in rural and northern communities to put a hold on restructuring plans.
OMA President Dr. Suzanne Strasberg says doctors want a formal consultation process to ensure that the public and health care providers have their say before any decisions are made.
Strasberg says physicians can provide valuable input to help ensure decisions are made without compromising quality and timely access to health care services.
The OMA also wants the government's strategy to formally recognize the differing health care needs in isolated and rural communities.
Rural Health Panel Formed
Ontario has officially announced the members of the new Rural and Northern Health Care Panel.
The panel, to be chaired by Kirkland and District Hospital CEO, Hal Fjeldsted, will provide recommendations to the government on how to better coordinate the delivery of health care services in Ontario's rural and northern areas.
The panel's members represent a broad range of stakeholders and health care professionals who will draw on their experiences working in rural and northern areas of Ontario.
Over the next six months will highlight current programs and services targeting northern and rural communities, identify rural and northern Ontario's unique health care challenges and recommend steps the government can take to improve access to health care in rural and northern Ontario using existing resources.
The panel will provide a report and recommendations to the government this winter.
The panel, to be chaired by Kirkland and District Hospital CEO, Hal Fjeldsted, will provide recommendations to the government on how to better coordinate the delivery of health care services in Ontario's rural and northern areas.
The panel's members represent a broad range of stakeholders and health care professionals who will draw on their experiences working in rural and northern areas of Ontario.
Over the next six months will highlight current programs and services targeting northern and rural communities, identify rural and northern Ontario's unique health care challenges and recommend steps the government can take to improve access to health care in rural and northern Ontario using existing resources.
The panel will provide a report and recommendations to the government this winter.
Municipal Support for Y.A.A.
Municipal support continues to grow for the Northwestern Health Unit's Youth Action Alliance.
The town of Fort Frances is the latest to pass a resolution calling for continued provincial funding for the youth-focused anti-smoking lobby group.
Dryden, Sioux Lookout and Red Lake councils have also passed resolutions in support of the Alliance.
Health Unit board chair John Albanese says that municipal support is important.
"The resolutions are going to the Premier, the Health Promotions Minister and whoever we can tap into," says Albanese.
Albanese says the Alliance has been very effective with its anti-smoking initiatives, and should be allowed to continue.
The town of Fort Frances is the latest to pass a resolution calling for continued provincial funding for the youth-focused anti-smoking lobby group.
Dryden, Sioux Lookout and Red Lake councils have also passed resolutions in support of the Alliance.
Health Unit board chair John Albanese says that municipal support is important.
"The resolutions are going to the Premier, the Health Promotions Minister and whoever we can tap into," says Albanese.
Albanese says the Alliance has been very effective with its anti-smoking initiatives, and should be allowed to continue.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Draft Forest Management Plan up for Review
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking public comment on a 10-year forest resources management plan for a group of ecological subsections in northern Minnesota.
Referred to as the North 4 subsections, the areas include the St. Louis Moraines, Tamarack Lowlands, Nashwauk Uplands, and Littlefork-Vermilion Uplands.
The draft plan covers strategies for about 1.17 million acres.
The plan also calls for field examination of about 13,000 acres of DNR forest lands per year to identify treatment needs.
The public comment period continues until August 24th.
Referred to as the North 4 subsections, the areas include the St. Louis Moraines, Tamarack Lowlands, Nashwauk Uplands, and Littlefork-Vermilion Uplands.
The draft plan covers strategies for about 1.17 million acres.
The plan also calls for field examination of about 13,000 acres of DNR forest lands per year to identify treatment needs.
The public comment period continues until August 24th.
Lightning Strike in Dryden
Four Dryden men are recovering after their golf game was unexpectedly disrupted yesterday by a lightning strike.
Lightning struck an area near a steel fence, knocking the four men to the ground.
All are currently recovering from burns and various other injuries.
Lightning struck an area near a steel fence, knocking the four men to the ground.
All are currently recovering from burns and various other injuries.
Limerick Retires
A long time employee with the Northwestern Health Unit is retiring.
Bill Limerick has worked in the public health field for the past 38 years, most recently as the health unit's director of Environmental Health.
He doesn't officially retire until the end of this year, but with holidays factored in, his last day on the job was July 15th.
Bill Limerick has worked in the public health field for the past 38 years, most recently as the health unit's director of Environmental Health.
He doesn't officially retire until the end of this year, but with holidays factored in, his last day on the job was July 15th.
L.U. Orientation Offered for New Students
Lakehead University is giving students enrolling in classes at its Thunder Bay campus an opportunity to get familiar with the surroundings well before the start of classes.
Every Friday until the end of August, students can visit the university to register for their student identification and tour the facilities.
Student Orientation officer Brendan Hughes says they can also help students with questions about courses.
"During the summer, some people have questions regarding registration or what courses they should be in," says Hughes. "or maybe they thought they wanted to go into one program but they're mulling over a different choice. We do have academic advisers on hand to able to see new students and give that guidance."
Hughes says students can also receive tours of residence, but won't be allowed to move in until later in August.
Every Friday until the end of August, students can visit the university to register for their student identification and tour the facilities.
Student Orientation officer Brendan Hughes says they can also help students with questions about courses.
"During the summer, some people have questions regarding registration or what courses they should be in," says Hughes. "or maybe they thought they wanted to go into one program but they're mulling over a different choice. We do have academic advisers on hand to able to see new students and give that guidance."
Hughes says students can also receive tours of residence, but won't be allowed to move in until later in August.
Man Charged for Skipping on Cab Fare
A refusal to pay for a cab ride in Fort Frances led to a man being taken into police custody.
Provincial police say the man took a cab early Saturday morning, but left the car without paying when it reached his destination.
The taxi driver followed the passenger into a Fort Frances establishment where an altercation took place between the two over the outstanding cab fare.
Police arrived to take the passenger into custody and charge him with being intoxicated in a public place.
Provincial police say the man took a cab early Saturday morning, but left the car without paying when it reached his destination.
The taxi driver followed the passenger into a Fort Frances establishment where an altercation took place between the two over the outstanding cab fare.
Police arrived to take the passenger into custody and charge him with being intoxicated in a public place.
Deer Strikes Motorcyclist
A Fort Frances man escaped serious injury after a motorcycle was struck by a deer.
The accident happened on Mill Road last Friday afternoon.
The man was transported by ambulance to LaVerendrye Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
The accident happened on Mill Road last Friday afternoon.
The man was transported by ambulance to LaVerendrye Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
Fire Tower Faces Probable Paint Job
Difficulties in removing the paint from the former fire tower at Pither's Point Park could lead to the tower being repainted.
Original plans called for the tower only to be pressure-washed before its relocated to the Fort Frances waterfront.
Community Services Manager George Bell told council last night that's proving more tougher than expected.
"We continue to have an issue with the paint removal on the tower," said Bell. "We're struggling getting it off with the water pressure. We're going to be looking at a bio-degradable paint stripper this week."
Bell says it may come down to the tower being painted.
He says expected saving from having fewer banners and post may help cover the cost.
"We've dramatically reduced the number of new posts that we will require," said Bell. "We're just going to do them along Scott Street, Mowat and the way-finding area. The original plan identified 49. I think we're looking at 29 and their $3,000 each."
The repainting of the tower had initially been identified at about $40,000.
Original plans called for the tower only to be pressure-washed before its relocated to the Fort Frances waterfront.
Community Services Manager George Bell told council last night that's proving more tougher than expected.
"We continue to have an issue with the paint removal on the tower," said Bell. "We're struggling getting it off with the water pressure. We're going to be looking at a bio-degradable paint stripper this week."
Bell says it may come down to the tower being painted.
He says expected saving from having fewer banners and post may help cover the cost.
"We've dramatically reduced the number of new posts that we will require," said Bell. "We're just going to do them along Scott Street, Mowat and the way-finding area. The original plan identified 49. I think we're looking at 29 and their $3,000 each."
The repainting of the tower had initially been identified at about $40,000.
Underpass to Shutdown
There will be another closure of the Portage Avenue underpass next week.
This time, the underpass will be completely shutdown for two to three days beginning next Wednesday so crews can replace sanitary sewer lines under the road bed.
Operations and Facilities Manager Doug Brown says emergency vehicles to access the north end through a rail crossing at Victoria Avenue.
Pedestrian traffic will still be permitted.
This time, the underpass will be completely shutdown for two to three days beginning next Wednesday so crews can replace sanitary sewer lines under the road bed.
Operations and Facilities Manager Doug Brown says emergency vehicles to access the north end through a rail crossing at Victoria Avenue.
Pedestrian traffic will still be permitted.
Portage and Scott Closing Next Tuesday
There will be some disruption to a traffic along Scott Street next week.
The closure of the intersection of Scott at Portage Avenue is to facilitate the continuance of road work in that area.
As a result, trucks will go through town using Mowat Avenue, Church Street, Veteran's Drive, a portion of Sinclair Street now owned by Abitibi-Bowater and Front Street.
When the intersection is closed next Tuesday, access along Scott between Mowat and Portage and Victoria and Portage will still be permitted.
The closure of the intersection of Scott at Portage Avenue is to facilitate the continuance of road work in that area.
As a result, trucks will go through town using Mowat Avenue, Church Street, Veteran's Drive, a portion of Sinclair Street now owned by Abitibi-Bowater and Front Street.
When the intersection is closed next Tuesday, access along Scott between Mowat and Portage and Victoria and Portage will still be permitted.
Donation to Flight Group Accepted
A group of airplanes returning from a cross country flight celebrating the 100th anniversary of the first powered flight in Canada will get a financial contribution from the town of Fort Frances.
In a 4-to-3 vote, council narrowly approved last night to give the group 8 cents for every litre of gasoline the planes take on when they land at the airport next week.
Mayor Roy Avis says about 30 planes are expected and feels the contribution is good p.r.
"I know that we said no the first time," says Avis, "but I think there is some impact for us. We can maybe get some mileage out of it."
The group organizing the flight had asked council for a reduced charge on fuel costs.
Avis noted the flight was being documented for a future television program.
But councillor Rick Wiedenhoeft says he's doesn't see how giving them a break in fuel prices would benefit the town.
"I question whether or not the bang for our buck will be worth it," says Wiedenhoeft. "Call me a skeptic, but this is probably going to be a money making issue when he sells the rights of the trip to CBC, CTV or the Discovery Channel. I don't know if the bang for the buck is going to be worth it if we give him a slight discount."
About 30 were to land in Fort Frances are part of the flight to Nova Scotia last week, but poor weather led to just five planes showing up.
In a 4-to-3 vote, council narrowly approved last night to give the group 8 cents for every litre of gasoline the planes take on when they land at the airport next week.
Mayor Roy Avis says about 30 planes are expected and feels the contribution is good p.r.
"I know that we said no the first time," says Avis, "but I think there is some impact for us. We can maybe get some mileage out of it."
The group organizing the flight had asked council for a reduced charge on fuel costs.
Avis noted the flight was being documented for a future television program.
But councillor Rick Wiedenhoeft says he's doesn't see how giving them a break in fuel prices would benefit the town.
"I question whether or not the bang for our buck will be worth it," says Wiedenhoeft. "Call me a skeptic, but this is probably going to be a money making issue when he sells the rights of the trip to CBC, CTV or the Discovery Channel. I don't know if the bang for the buck is going to be worth it if we give him a slight discount."
About 30 were to land in Fort Frances are part of the flight to Nova Scotia last week, but poor weather led to just five planes showing up.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Paramedics' Seek Essential Service Status
The Ontario Paramedic Association is asking the McGuinty government to grant the province's paramedics essential service status.
The association says it's a matter of public safety and security.
It says the designation would ensure paramedics would report to work regardless of any labour issues within the various municipalities.
Paramedics were classed as a public safety occupation at the federal Level in 2005 and the O-P-A wants the province to follow suit.
The association says it's a matter of public safety and security.
It says the designation would ensure paramedics would report to work regardless of any labour issues within the various municipalities.
Paramedics were classed as a public safety occupation at the federal Level in 2005 and the O-P-A wants the province to follow suit.
Mining Compny Fined
The death of a worker has led to a $130 thousand fine against a mineral exploration company.
Conquest Resources hired an independent contractor in December 2007 to construct an ice road on Sturgeon Lake, 70 kilometres east of Sioux Lookout.
But when the man drove his plow onto the lake, it broke through the ice, and the man drowned.
A Ministry of Labour investigation found the worker hadn't been given accurate information about the thickness of the ice.
Conquest Resources hired an independent contractor in December 2007 to construct an ice road on Sturgeon Lake, 70 kilometres east of Sioux Lookout.
But when the man drove his plow onto the lake, it broke through the ice, and the man drowned.
A Ministry of Labour investigation found the worker hadn't been given accurate information about the thickness of the ice.
Body Found in Winnipeg River
OPP have found the body of a missing Winnipeg man near Minaki.
The body of 25-year-old Dave Christopher Pundyk was found Saturday afternoon in the Winnipeg River.
The man was thrown from a boat into the river after two boats travelling together collided on July 18th.
The body of 25-year-old Dave Christopher Pundyk was found Saturday afternoon in the Winnipeg River.
The man was thrown from a boat into the river after two boats travelling together collided on July 18th.
Illegal Baitfish Traps Found
(Photo courtesy Ministry of Natural Resources)The discovery of a number of illegal baitfish traps in the Dryden area has prompted the Ministry of Natural Resources to issue a warning.
The M-N-R says traps must be clearly labelled with the name of the user and must not exceed the maximum permitted size.
The Ministry says its also received several complaints of individuals selling baitfish without a licence.
New regulations are in place to protect rare and endangered species.
Emo Speedway Celebrates
Three of the original drivers who raced at Emo Speedway 55 years ago made a return Saturday to help celebrate the tracks anniversary.
Among them 91-year-old Raoul Cayer who won the track's first title in 1954.
"We got together with Russ Cruchaine," recalls Cayer, "Russ decided we should go into Winnipeg to buy a car. So we drove into Winnipeg and bought a car. Brought it back and fixed it up and started racing.
The track opened to stock car racing in July of 1954.
Lyle Busch was one of the original drivers who helped get racing going with Sid Asselin
"We brought Sid's car down here to the grandstand on Saturday afternoon," says Busch. "Run that thing around and pretty soon we had over a hundred people here."
Busch says that appearance eventually led to regular racing at the track.
The evening also featured photographs and articles of the track over its more than 5 decades.
Among them 91-year-old Raoul Cayer who won the track's first title in 1954.
"We got together with Russ Cruchaine," recalls Cayer, "Russ decided we should go into Winnipeg to buy a car. So we drove into Winnipeg and bought a car. Brought it back and fixed it up and started racing.
The track opened to stock car racing in July of 1954.
Lyle Busch was one of the original drivers who helped get racing going with Sid Asselin
"We brought Sid's car down here to the grandstand on Saturday afternoon," says Busch. "Run that thing around and pretty soon we had over a hundred people here."
Busch says that appearance eventually led to regular racing at the track.
The evening also featured photographs and articles of the track over its more than 5 decades.
Drivers go Hand-Free October 1
Ontario drivers have until October to go hands-free.
That's when the province's ban on the use of cellphones, BlackBerrys and other hand-held electronic devices by drivers will take effect.
Transportation Minister Jim Bradley says motorists can expect an education period, which means police will show some leniency when the ban first takes effect.
That's when the province's ban on the use of cellphones, BlackBerrys and other hand-held electronic devices by drivers will take effect.
Transportation Minister Jim Bradley says motorists can expect an education period, which means police will show some leniency when the ban first takes effect.
Health Officials Meet Today
Health officials from across the province are to meet in Windsor today for talks on Ontario's response to the H1N1 flu pandemic.
Chief medical officer of health Doctor Arlene King will discuss the H1N1 Influenza virus with health professionals from Ontario's 36 public health units.
The province's latest statistics show there have been about 39-hundred confirmed cases of H1N1 in Ontario, seventy in the Northwestern Health Unit catchment area.
Chief medical officer of health Doctor Arlene King will discuss the H1N1 Influenza virus with health professionals from Ontario's 36 public health units.
The province's latest statistics show there have been about 39-hundred confirmed cases of H1N1 in Ontario, seventy in the Northwestern Health Unit catchment area.
More Help to B.C.
More firefighting reinforcements from Ontario have headed to British Columbia.
An additional 172 Ministry of Natural Resources personnel left for Kamloops yesterday.
They join the 122 who arrived in B.C. Friday.
That group is currently working out of Merritt, in the south-central interior of the province.
An additional 172 Ministry of Natural Resources personnel left for Kamloops yesterday.
They join the 122 who arrived in B.C. Friday.
That group is currently working out of Merritt, in the south-central interior of the province.
Portage Avenue Underpass Closure
A reminder to motorists, the Portage Avenue Underpass will be closed to traffic this week today to Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and again Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Pedestrian traffic will still be permitted.
Pedestrian traffic will still be permitted.
Fort Frances Town Council Tonight
Fort Frances town councillors will receive another update on construction projects when they meet for their regular meeting tonight at the Civic Centre.
Councillors will also consider the purchase of a new ice resurfacer for the Memorial Sports Centre.
A request from some residents on First Street East for trees in their area is also on the agenda.
The public portion of tonight's meeting begins at about 7:00 p.m.
Councillors will also consider the purchase of a new ice resurfacer for the Memorial Sports Centre.
A request from some residents on First Street East for trees in their area is also on the agenda.
The public portion of tonight's meeting begins at about 7:00 p.m.
Taxi hit Pedestrian
OPP are investigating an accident involving a taxi and a pedestrian.
It happened last Thursday night in front of the Adventure Inn in Fort Frances.
Police says the taxi struck a man who was on the road.
The unidentified man was taken to LaVerendrye Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.
The driver of the taxi was not injured.
It happened last Thursday night in front of the Adventure Inn in Fort Frances.
Police says the taxi struck a man who was on the road.
The unidentified man was taken to LaVerendrye Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.
The driver of the taxi was not injured.
Drug Bust near Fort Frances
OPP have made a major drug bust near Fort Frances.
Police seized over four pounds of marijuana, a substantial amount of cash and firearms from a home in LaVallee Township and another 100 marijuana plants from a property located north of Devlin.
The street value of the marijuana and plants is estimated at over 120-thousand dollars.
Owner of both proprieties, Brian McKinnon was charged with a variety of drug offences and will appear in court on September 8th.
Police seized over four pounds of marijuana, a substantial amount of cash and firearms from a home in LaVallee Township and another 100 marijuana plants from a property located north of Devlin.
The street value of the marijuana and plants is estimated at over 120-thousand dollars.
Owner of both proprieties, Brian McKinnon was charged with a variety of drug offences and will appear in court on September 8th.
FFCBC Hailed a Success
Organizers of the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship are happy with how events went this year.
Chair Tom Fry says attendance was the only concern.
"We we're disappointed in the early going," says Fry. "You can't effect the weather. It's going to play a role. But last night (Friday night), we had a great turnout for the AC/DC and the hypnotist. That kind of turned things around for us. This afternoon (Saturday) was unbelievable and the sun finally came out.
Fry says strong support from volunteers also contributed to the tournament's success.
Thrun/Moynagh - 5-time Champions
(Joe Thrun (far left) and Jim Moynagh on stage at Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship)A 20-pound bag of bass on the final day of fishing allowed Minnesota anglers Joe Thrun and Jim Moynagh to keep the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship crown for a third consecutive year.
It also their fifth title in the tournament's 15-year history.
Thrun was at a loss to explain their dominance.
"The lake's been good to us," says Thrun. "We just come out here and fish really hard and good lord willing we come out on top. We don't have any excuses or reasons why. We just fish hard and its works out."
Teammate Jim Moynagh says staying the area that they pre-fished was key.
"We practised in there and really didn't do that well," says Moynagh. "There was a little bit of activity and we thought maybe we'll start there anyway. So the decisions we made, starting with that, we made the right decisions."
Thrun and Moynagh's three day-total of 57.76 pounds was eight pounds more than second place finishers Lauren Ras and Chuck Olson of Bemidji.
The top team to finish from the Rainy River district was Chad and Mike Hanson of Fort Frances in 5th.
Dorian Lindholm of Fort Frances and Bill Wilcox of Burleson, Texas had the biggest fish of the tournament at 5.26 pounds. It was the biggest fish caught at the tournament since 2007.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Mosquitos Problems This Summer
Experts are predicting mosquitoes to come on strong for the rest of the summer.
The pesky insects develop in water and so any standing water in people yards are making for great incubators.
Naturalist David Mizejewski with the National Wildlife Federation says products to protect yourself from mosquitoes work differently, but effectively.
"We leave a trail of water vapor and carbon dioxide through our skin and out of our breath and that's what mosquitoes are following," says Mizejewski, "and so a lot of these herbal products will actually mask that and keep the mosquitoes from being able to find you."
Mosquito bites can be painful, but Mizejewski says rarely do they produce serious illness.
The pesky insects develop in water and so any standing water in people yards are making for great incubators.
Naturalist David Mizejewski with the National Wildlife Federation says products to protect yourself from mosquitoes work differently, but effectively.
"We leave a trail of water vapor and carbon dioxide through our skin and out of our breath and that's what mosquitoes are following," says Mizejewski, "and so a lot of these herbal products will actually mask that and keep the mosquitoes from being able to find you."
Mosquito bites can be painful, but Mizejewski says rarely do they produce serious illness.
Layton Visits Northwest
NDP Leader Jack Layton is touring Northwestern Ontario this weekend.
Layton will be in Ear Falls and Red Lake Saturday attending a breakfast and the Norseman Floatplane Festival.
He will then head to Kenora Sunday for a round-table on pensions and seniors.
Layton will wrap the day up with the NDP Kenora Nomination meeting.
Layton will be in Ear Falls and Red Lake Saturday attending a breakfast and the Norseman Floatplane Festival.
He will then head to Kenora Sunday for a round-table on pensions and seniors.
Layton will wrap the day up with the NDP Kenora Nomination meeting.
Kenora NDP Prepare for Election Call
NDP in the Kenora riding are planning to have a candidate in place for the next federal election by the end of this month.
A riding meeting has been set for Sunday in the Kenora area.
Tania Cameron, who ran for the NDP in the last federal election, is the only confirmed candidate so far.
Last weekend, the Liberals nominated Roger Valley to carry their banner into the next election, which could come as early as this fall.
A riding meeting has been set for Sunday in the Kenora area.
Tania Cameron, who ran for the NDP in the last federal election, is the only confirmed candidate so far.
Last weekend, the Liberals nominated Roger Valley to carry their banner into the next election, which could come as early as this fall.
Portage Avenue Underpass Closed a Third Week
Another closure of the Portage Avenue underpass is planned for next week.
Beginning Monday, motorist access will be prohibited from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. all next week and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. next Friday.
Officials say this closure is necessary for crews to work on the west lane of the underpass and to install new sewer lines.
Pedestrian traffic through the area will still be permitted during the closure.
Beginning Monday, motorist access will be prohibited from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. all next week and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. next Friday.
Officials say this closure is necessary for crews to work on the west lane of the underpass and to install new sewer lines.
Pedestrian traffic through the area will still be permitted during the closure.
Local Support for Atleo
Area native leaders are throwing their support behind newly elected national chief of the Assembly of First Nations Shawn Atleo.
The former vice-chief from B.C. won the title following eight rounds of voting in Calgary yesterday.
Couchiching First Nations Chief Chuck McPherson believes Atleo's campaign unfairly benefited from the fact roughly one-third of the 639 eligible voters are from B.C.
The province with the next largest bloc of voters is Ontario, with 134 eligible chiefs.
But McPherson says Atleo will get cross-country support because there is too much to do.
The former vice-chief from B.C. won the title following eight rounds of voting in Calgary yesterday.
Couchiching First Nations Chief Chuck McPherson believes Atleo's campaign unfairly benefited from the fact roughly one-third of the 639 eligible voters are from B.C.
The province with the next largest bloc of voters is Ontario, with 134 eligible chiefs.
But McPherson says Atleo will get cross-country support because there is too much to do.
P-E-T Scans now Pubicly Insured
Ontario will make positron emission tomography, or P-E-T, scans a publicly insured health service for some cancer and cardiac patients.
P-E-T scanning can provide information about abnormal tissues such as cancer that is not always found with M-R-I or C-T scans.
By October, insured P-E-T scans will be performed in Ottawa, London, Toronto, Hamilton and Thunder Bay.
P-E-T scanning can provide information about abnormal tissues such as cancer that is not always found with M-R-I or C-T scans.
By October, insured P-E-T scans will be performed in Ottawa, London, Toronto, Hamilton and Thunder Bay.
Phone Service Down
Hospitals in Emo and Rainy River and Rainycrest found themselves without telephone services briefly yesterday afternoon.
For the second time this year, crews working near the LaVerendrye hospital severed a phone cable.
However, the outage did not impact phone service to the Fort Frances hospital.
Service to the other facilities was restored within an hour.
For the second time this year, crews working near the LaVerendrye hospital severed a phone cable.
However, the outage did not impact phone service to the Fort Frances hospital.
Service to the other facilities was restored within an hour.
FFCBC Day Two Events
Today, the field for the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship was inverted as anglers head back to Rainy Lake for the second day of fishing.
First on the water at 7:00 a.m. was the team of Steve Mattson from Brainerd and Gordon Fothergill of Grand Rapids, who left last yesterday. They are currently 41st after day one.
Last year's champions left last from the government dock at Pither's Point Park.
Weigh-ins at the tent site will be at 4:00 p.m.
Be sure to join B-93 as we broadcast live from the site beginning at about 3:20 p.m.
First on the water at 7:00 a.m. was the team of Steve Mattson from Brainerd and Gordon Fothergill of Grand Rapids, who left last yesterday. They are currently 41st after day one.
Last year's champions left last from the government dock at Pither's Point Park.
Weigh-ins at the tent site will be at 4:00 p.m.
Be sure to join B-93 as we broadcast live from the site beginning at about 3:20 p.m.
FFCBC Day One Weigh-Ins
Last year's winners of the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship have put themselves in a good position in their drive for five.
Joe Thrun of Annandale, Minnesota and Jim Moynagh of Carver, Minnesota ended the first day of fishing with a 5-fish catch of 19-point 1-4 pounds of bass.
Thrun says the fishing was far better than they saw in pre-fishing.
"We didn't really get anything like this in practice," says Thrun. "It's a lot better than we expected and hope to do it again tomorrow."
The team has also won titles in 1998, 99 and 2007
Matt Christy of Superior, Wisconsin and Chris Hay of Brooklyn Centre, Minnesota are 3/10's of a pound back in second
Ron and Dan Lindner of Baxter, Minnesota are third.
The top angler from the Rainy River district is Andrew Perrault of Fort Frances who is 6th with his partner Jeremiah Gardner from Eagle Lake.
The big fish of the day was caught by Scott and Blair Dingwall of Dryden who reeled in a bass weighing in at 4.82 pounds.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Boil-Water Advisory Lifted
After two years under a boil-water advisory, residents of Ignace can finally drink from the tap.
The township has been supplied with water from its new water treatment plant since early June, problems with the plant forced the need for a boil-water advisory to be extended.
Town officials say those problems are have been corrected.
Besides the lengthy boil-water advisory, the town's 665 households have had to endure sinks, tubs, dishwashers and laundry suffering from hard water and iron stains.
The township has been supplied with water from its new water treatment plant since early June, problems with the plant forced the need for a boil-water advisory to be extended.
Town officials say those problems are have been corrected.
Besides the lengthy boil-water advisory, the town's 665 households have had to endure sinks, tubs, dishwashers and laundry suffering from hard water and iron stains.
Drug Drop Thwarted
Wunnumin Lake First Nation residents are being credited with helping in a major drug bust.
The residents called police after watching a Cessna float plane drop a suspicious package into the remote northern community last Sunday.
The package contained 32-thousand dollars worth of marijuana and Percocet pills.
Police are now search for the plane identified as being white and yellow in colour.
The residents called police after watching a Cessna float plane drop a suspicious package into the remote northern community last Sunday.
The package contained 32-thousand dollars worth of marijuana and Percocet pills.
Police are now search for the plane identified as being white and yellow in colour.
Doc Website Criticized
Opposition members are panning the province's website aimed at helping residents find a doctor.
NDP Health critic France Gelinas says the Health Care Connect website isn't going to help small and northern communities already facing doctor shortages.
"At the end of the day if you don't increase the capacity of the system to take on more clients, then you can have all of the websites you want," says Gelinas. "If there is nobody on the ground to offer the services, then its all for nothing."
The province says 800-thousand people are currently without a physician.
Gelinas pinpoints the number to be more like a million.
NDP Health critic France Gelinas says the Health Care Connect website isn't going to help small and northern communities already facing doctor shortages.
"At the end of the day if you don't increase the capacity of the system to take on more clients, then you can have all of the websites you want," says Gelinas. "If there is nobody on the ground to offer the services, then its all for nothing."
The province says 800-thousand people are currently without a physician.
Gelinas pinpoints the number to be more like a million.
Good Life for Young People Walk
Several members of first nations in Treaty #3 are on a walking tour of the region.
The small group set out Monday from Rainy River First Nation.
Al Hunter says the walk is to raise funds and awareness of the Good Life for Young People Foundation.
"The Walk for Good Life is just one initiative of the Good Life for Young People for Foundation which has been in development for the past several years," says Hunter. "It sponsors a late summer concert every year. Our fourth annual concert is coming up. We're also trying to raise funds so that we can fund youth projects and initiatives."
The group will complete its walk back in Rainy River First Nation on Monday.
The small group set out Monday from Rainy River First Nation.
Al Hunter says the walk is to raise funds and awareness of the Good Life for Young People Foundation.
"The Walk for Good Life is just one initiative of the Good Life for Young People for Foundation which has been in development for the past several years," says Hunter. "It sponsors a late summer concert every year. Our fourth annual concert is coming up. We're also trying to raise funds so that we can fund youth projects and initiatives."
The group will complete its walk back in Rainy River First Nation on Monday.
Regional Help to British Columbia
The Ministry of Natural Resources is once again sending personnel from Ontario to help fight forest fires in British Columbia.
A total of 122 fire fighters and support staff are being deployed this morning to Kamloops.
The contingent includes 15 FireRanger Crews from MNR fire bases northwestern Ontario.
A total of 122 fire fighters and support staff are being deployed this morning to Kamloops.
The contingent includes 15 FireRanger Crews from MNR fire bases northwestern Ontario.
More Than Just the Bass!
There is a host of activities taking place at the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championships site over the next three days.
Chair Tom Fry says the night-time entertainment should be a good draw.
"We feel we have a really, really good entertainment package put together for the weekend," says Fry. "We're hoping people will take advantage of the $40 all-access pass to the site."
Juno-Award winning Kim Mitchell rocks the tent tonight with opening act Money Honey from Thunder Bay.
Winnipeg's A Whole Lotta Angus performs Friday night with Bon-Journey taking to the stage on the final night.
There is also a host of activities occurring at the daytime land including a donut eating contest and a scavenger hunt.
Chair Tom Fry says the night-time entertainment should be a good draw.
"We feel we have a really, really good entertainment package put together for the weekend," says Fry. "We're hoping people will take advantage of the $40 all-access pass to the site."
Juno-Award winning Kim Mitchell rocks the tent tonight with opening act Money Honey from Thunder Bay.
Winnipeg's A Whole Lotta Angus performs Friday night with Bon-Journey taking to the stage on the final night.
There is also a host of activities occurring at the daytime land including a donut eating contest and a scavenger hunt.
Bass Championship Begins
125 angler teams from across north America hit the water this morning for the first day of fishing at the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.
Defending champions Joe Thrun of Annandale, Minnesota, and Jim Moynagh of Carver, Minnesota, were the first team to leave at 7:00 a.m. from the government dock at Pither's Point Park.
Anglers will begin making their return to the Sorting Gap Marina at 3:30 p.m. for this afternoon's weigh-ins which begin at 4:00 p.m.
Be sure to keep it tuned to B-93 as we broadcast live from the site from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Defending champions Joe Thrun of Annandale, Minnesota, and Jim Moynagh of Carver, Minnesota, were the first team to leave at 7:00 a.m. from the government dock at Pither's Point Park.
Anglers will begin making their return to the Sorting Gap Marina at 3:30 p.m. for this afternoon's weigh-ins which begin at 4:00 p.m.
Be sure to keep it tuned to B-93 as we broadcast live from the site from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Sawmill Production Declines
More evidence of the forest industry's difficulties.
Statistics Canada says monthly lumber production by sawmills in May decreased nearly 4 per cent.
Compared with the same month last year, lumber production declined 26-per cent.
Statistics Canada says monthly lumber production by sawmills in May decreased nearly 4 per cent.
Compared with the same month last year, lumber production declined 26-per cent.
ServiceOntario Centres to Expand
Starting this fall, Ontario health cards,driver's licenses and vehicle registration services will all befound under one roof.
ServiceOntario centres across the province will spend the next 18months expanding to offer integrated services.
Minister of Government Services Harinder Takhar says integrated centres will make things faster, friendlier and easier for residents.
The announcement means health cards, which were available from only 27 OHIP offices, can now be picked up from 300 locations.
Health card services in rural communities will grow from only two to more than 160 centres, while northern communities will see an expansion from six to 67 integrated offices.
There are only two ServiceOntario centres which offer integrated services at present.
ServiceOntario centres across the province will spend the next 18months expanding to offer integrated services.
Minister of Government Services Harinder Takhar says integrated centres will make things faster, friendlier and easier for residents.
The announcement means health cards, which were available from only 27 OHIP offices, can now be picked up from 300 locations.
Health card services in rural communities will grow from only two to more than 160 centres, while northern communities will see an expansion from six to 67 integrated offices.
There are only two ServiceOntario centres which offer integrated services at present.
Native Leaders Worried about H1N1
Aboriginal leaders say many questions need to be answered before a potential resurgence of the H1N1 virus during the fall flu season nears.
Treaty Three Grand Chief Diane Kelly says she's concerned about how remote communities will get supplies if the pandemic becomes severe.
"My understanding is should a full pandemic that we may have our communities close down," says Kelly, "so we're concerned should that if that happens how quickly will services come in, whether that be the vaccine, food or what not."
Liberal MP's say squabbling between governments and health boards about who is responsible for the health of aboriginals is stalling vital flu preparations.
Treaty Three Grand Chief Diane Kelly says she's concerned about how remote communities will get supplies if the pandemic becomes severe.
"My understanding is should a full pandemic that we may have our communities close down," says Kelly, "so we're concerned should that if that happens how quickly will services come in, whether that be the vaccine, food or what not."
Liberal MP's say squabbling between governments and health boards about who is responsible for the health of aboriginals is stalling vital flu preparations.
Winnipeg River Search Continues
OPP divers continue to comb the Winnipeg River near Minaki for a missing man.
25-year-old Dave Pundyk of Winnipeg has been missing since early Saturday morning after he was thrown into the water when two boats collided on the river.
Police now say a 27-year old Kenora man who was operating one of the boats had been drinking.
25-year-old Dave Pundyk of Winnipeg has been missing since early Saturday morning after he was thrown into the water when two boats collided on the river.
Police now say a 27-year old Kenora man who was operating one of the boats had been drinking.
Head-On Sends One Person to Hospital
One person was taken to hospital following a head-on collision on Highway 11 between International Falls and Rainer.
The accident happened just before 11:00 p.m. last night near the Falls city boundary.
The Koochiching Country Sheriff's department says members of the International Falls Fire Department had to use the jaw-of-life to extricate a female driver from one of the vehicles.
She was taken to Rainy Lake Medical Centre for treatment. Her condition is not immediately known.
The driver of the other vehicle escape serious injury.
The accident happened just before 11:00 p.m. last night near the Falls city boundary.
The Koochiching Country Sheriff's department says members of the International Falls Fire Department had to use the jaw-of-life to extricate a female driver from one of the vehicles.
She was taken to Rainy Lake Medical Centre for treatment. Her condition is not immediately known.
The driver of the other vehicle escape serious injury.
Post Office to Close
A storefront post office in International Falls is among those the United States Postal Service is preparing to close in what's believed to be the first wave of closures in Minnesota.
The office located on 18th Street East is among seven the Postal Service expected to close as early as this fall.
Another 17 similar sites across the state also believed to be on the chopping block.
A decline in usage has been identified as reasons for the closure.
The office located on 18th Street East is among seven the Postal Service expected to close as early as this fall.
Another 17 similar sites across the state also believed to be on the chopping block.
A decline in usage has been identified as reasons for the closure.
Help to Find Doctors
Ontario's Health Minister David Caplan expects residents of northern Ontario to have many doctors to choice from in the not to distant future.
Caplan says 70 percent of the Northern Ontario Medical School's first year graduates plan to go into family practices - hopefully in this part of the province.
"We don't have a way to force people where to work," says Caplan, "but the feedback we're getting is that people who come from the north, who are trained in the north, and understand the needs of the community and the kind of practice you'll have in rural and northern medicine will stay there."
Meantime, the province has set up the Health Care Connect website to help residents find a doctor more immediately.
Caplan says 70 percent of the Northern Ontario Medical School's first year graduates plan to go into family practices - hopefully in this part of the province.
"We don't have a way to force people where to work," says Caplan, "but the feedback we're getting is that people who come from the north, who are trained in the north, and understand the needs of the community and the kind of practice you'll have in rural and northern medicine will stay there."
Meantime, the province has set up the Health Care Connect website to help residents find a doctor more immediately.
Dryden Mill to Resume Operations
While workers at the AbitibiBowater mill in Fort Frances are in the middle of a week-long shutdown, workers are slowly returning to work at Domtar's pulp mill in Dryden.
About 230 workers have been laid off since the end of April.
They are now returning in phases with the entire workforce back by July 27th.
The mill's steam plant will be start Sunday, with pulp production coming online shortly after that.
About 230 workers have been laid off since the end of April.
They are now returning in phases with the entire workforce back by July 27th.
The mill's steam plant will be start Sunday, with pulp production coming online shortly after that.
Emo Abattoir Get More Money
More money for the Abattoir project in Emo.
The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund is providing another half-million dollars toward the project which is now being built.
It brings the provincial contribution to a million dollars.
The two-million dollar not-for-profit community owned abattoir is expected to open by the end of this year.
The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund is providing another half-million dollars toward the project which is now being built.
It brings the provincial contribution to a million dollars.
The two-million dollar not-for-profit community owned abattoir is expected to open by the end of this year.
Bass Tournament Turns 15
The Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship will celebrate its 15th anniversary tonight.
Since 1995, the championship has drawn anglers from across north America to fish the waters of Rainy River.
Chair Tom Fry says community support plays a big part in keeping the event going.
"I think right from the outset is the dedication from our volunteers and the community involvement from a perspective of sponsorships," says Fry. "Without them we couldn't have kept going."
The annual tournament has become big business for the Fort Frances area with hotel, restaurants and other stores seeing a brisk business.
Fry says a recent study showed the annual event generates more than two-million dollars in the local economy.
"That includes all of the before and after effects from fisherman visiting the area, coming in for pre-fishing and coming in for other events to fishing in the fall."
Tournament organizers will mark the 15th anniversary in a number of ways this evening at the tent site.
An event that had been intended for only the anglers and sponsors of the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship will now be open to the public.
Winnipeg Comedian Big Daddy Tazz will perform under the big tent at 8:00 p.m.
Opening ceremonies have been moved to 7:30 p.m.
A fireworks display along the waterfront will follow at around 10:00 p.m.
Since 1995, the championship has drawn anglers from across north America to fish the waters of Rainy River.
Chair Tom Fry says community support plays a big part in keeping the event going.
"I think right from the outset is the dedication from our volunteers and the community involvement from a perspective of sponsorships," says Fry. "Without them we couldn't have kept going."
The annual tournament has become big business for the Fort Frances area with hotel, restaurants and other stores seeing a brisk business.
Fry says a recent study showed the annual event generates more than two-million dollars in the local economy.
"That includes all of the before and after effects from fisherman visiting the area, coming in for pre-fishing and coming in for other events to fishing in the fall."
Tournament organizers will mark the 15th anniversary in a number of ways this evening at the tent site.
An event that had been intended for only the anglers and sponsors of the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship will now be open to the public.
Winnipeg Comedian Big Daddy Tazz will perform under the big tent at 8:00 p.m.
Opening ceremonies have been moved to 7:30 p.m.
A fireworks display along the waterfront will follow at around 10:00 p.m.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Teen Birth Rates on the Rise
After a dozen years of decline in teen birth rates, evidence shows a recent rise in that rate across the country and in Minnesota.
Results of a new study indicate that the rise is not necessarily because of increased levels of sexual activity, but rather, a reduced use of contraceptives – specifically condoms.
Brigid Riley, executive director of the Minnesota Organization on Adolescent Pregnancy, Prevention and Parenting says a decade of faith-inspired curricula and an increased focus on abstinence are sending conflicting messages to teens.
"Adolescents need a lot of information; they need good-quality education about preventing, not just pregnancy," says Riley, "but HIV and other STIs, because those rates are going up as well."
Riley says Minnesota had a six percent increase in teen pregnancies in 2006, followed by another two percent jump in 2007.
Results of a new study indicate that the rise is not necessarily because of increased levels of sexual activity, but rather, a reduced use of contraceptives – specifically condoms.
Brigid Riley, executive director of the Minnesota Organization on Adolescent Pregnancy, Prevention and Parenting says a decade of faith-inspired curricula and an increased focus on abstinence are sending conflicting messages to teens.
"Adolescents need a lot of information; they need good-quality education about preventing, not just pregnancy," says Riley, "but HIV and other STIs, because those rates are going up as well."
Riley says Minnesota had a six percent increase in teen pregnancies in 2006, followed by another two percent jump in 2007.
Find a Doc On-Line
The province is turning to cyberspace to make it easier for Ontario residents to hook up with a family doctor.
Health Care Connect -- which had been a telephone tool to help people find a doctor -- is now available as an online service.
Health Minister David Caplan says the service has fielded about 14-thousand phone calls since February.
Caplan estimates there are still about 800-thousand people in Ontario without access to primary health care.
Health Care Connect -- which had been a telephone tool to help people find a doctor -- is now available as an online service.
Health Minister David Caplan says the service has fielded about 14-thousand phone calls since February.
Caplan estimates there are still about 800-thousand people in Ontario without access to primary health care.
Flouride Debate
Fluoridation of Thunder Bay's drinking water won't be taking place any time soon.
City council voted against further study of the issue and against having the option on the next election ballot.
The issue consumed hours of presentations and debate last night with the meeting not ending until 3:00 a.m.
However, city administration says the matter could still be put to a plebiscite if a petition can be signed by 10 per cent of the city’s voters – about 86-hundred signatures.
City council voted against further study of the issue and against having the option on the next election ballot.
The issue consumed hours of presentations and debate last night with the meeting not ending until 3:00 a.m.
However, city administration says the matter could still be put to a plebiscite if a petition can be signed by 10 per cent of the city’s voters – about 86-hundred signatures.
Y.A.A. Fights for its Existance.
The Northwestern Health Unit is fighting to keep the Youth Action Alliance running.
The local tobacco free advocacy group is being disbanded by the provincial government at the end of the August.
Health Officials have sent a letter to Premier Dalton McGuinty strongly urging him to maintain funding for the program.
The local tobacco free advocacy group is being disbanded by the provincial government at the end of the August.
Health Officials have sent a letter to Premier Dalton McGuinty strongly urging him to maintain funding for the program.
On-Line Survey for Minnesota Hunters
Hunters in Minnesota are being given an opportunity to comment on upcoming waterfowl hunting regulations through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Web site.
DNR Wildlife section chief Dennis Simon says the online survey is not meant as a substitute for the department’s periodic formal survey, but rather another option for hunters to provide their input.
The survey helps the DNR make decisions regarding hunting seasons as they relate to the federal hunting framework to be released in August.
DNR Wildlife section chief Dennis Simon says the online survey is not meant as a substitute for the department’s periodic formal survey, but rather another option for hunters to provide their input.
The survey helps the DNR make decisions regarding hunting seasons as they relate to the federal hunting framework to be released in August.
Anglers Test the Waters
Pre-fishing for anglers completing in the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship continues today.
Joe Thrun of Annandale, Minnesota won last year's title with teammate Jim Moynagh, and says its a chance to find out what will work when the tournament kicks into high gear Thursday.
"That's what practise if for," says Thrun, "come out here three, four, five days ahead of time and try to figure out what type of baits they're on, what kind of water there in and try to figure it out."
About 125 teams are entered.
Organizers says they will accept new teams up until Wednesday's rules meeting at 5:00 p.m.
Joe Thrun of Annandale, Minnesota won last year's title with teammate Jim Moynagh, and says its a chance to find out what will work when the tournament kicks into high gear Thursday.
"That's what practise if for," says Thrun, "come out here three, four, five days ahead of time and try to figure out what type of baits they're on, what kind of water there in and try to figure it out."
About 125 teams are entered.
Organizers says they will accept new teams up until Wednesday's rules meeting at 5:00 p.m.
Teen Party Tonight
The first entertainment event at the 2009 Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship takes place tonight.
The Much Music Video Dance Teen Party goes under the tent beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Entertainment director Adam Armit says they'll be taking measures to restrict what teens can bring to the site.
"It's kind of like a coat check," says Armit, "but it's for purse and bags and water bottles and stuff so nobody can bring anything in. Cameras will be allowed, but no purses or water bottle."
The event had originally been scrapped to keep this year's events to a minimum, but later reinstated.
The Much Music Video Dance Teen Party goes under the tent beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Entertainment director Adam Armit says they'll be taking measures to restrict what teens can bring to the site.
"It's kind of like a coat check," says Armit, "but it's for purse and bags and water bottles and stuff so nobody can bring anything in. Cameras will be allowed, but no purses or water bottle."
The event had originally been scrapped to keep this year's events to a minimum, but later reinstated.
Suspicious Person Noticed
Provincial police were called to the 400 block of First Street East in Fort Frances Friday after a resident noticed a man outside his home peering into vehicles parked in the area..
The man was described as Caucasian, approximately 25-years old and was wearing a dark ball cap and dark shirt at the time.
The man was described as Caucasian, approximately 25-years old and was wearing a dark ball cap and dark shirt at the time.
Break-In Probed
OPP are looking into a break-in at a Fort Frances area camp.
Sometime between July 2nd and July 16, thieves entered the camp and stole an assortment of Canadian coins, a tackle bag with tackle, rods and reels and alcohol.
Total value of the items taken is estimated at over one-thousand dollars.
Police say it was the second time in the past two months that the cabin had been broken into.
Sometime between July 2nd and July 16, thieves entered the camp and stole an assortment of Canadian coins, a tackle bag with tackle, rods and reels and alcohol.
Total value of the items taken is estimated at over one-thousand dollars.
Police say it was the second time in the past two months that the cabin had been broken into.
AbitibiBowater Looks for Extension
AbitibiBowater is asking a bankruptcy court in Delaware for more time to present a reorganization plan for the company.
The newsprint giant is seeking a 120-day extension of the so-called exclusivity period which would protect it from creditors’ submitting plans to reorganize the company.
In court papers filed last week, the company says the initial exclusive periods provide an unrealistic time frame to file” a viable recovery plan due to “the sheer size and complexity” of the case.
A hearing has been set for August.
The newsprint giant is seeking a 120-day extension of the so-called exclusivity period which would protect it from creditors’ submitting plans to reorganize the company.
In court papers filed last week, the company says the initial exclusive periods provide an unrealistic time frame to file” a viable recovery plan due to “the sheer size and complexity” of the case.
A hearing has been set for August.
Exploration Busy in Rainy River District
Mineral exploration in northwestern Ontario is booming despite the recession.
The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry says more than 65 companies are involved in activities in the Kenora and Rainy River district.
District Geologist Craig Ravenous says high commodity prices are helping these companies remain active.
"As long as commodity prices remain elevated and fairly high such as gold flirting with the $1,000 range," says Ravenous, "this increase and high commodity prices will attract investors to invest in the exploration programs."
Ravenous says the activity is at its highest level since the mid 1980's.
In the Rainy River district, companies have focused their attention on properties in the Emo and Mine Centre areas in particular.
Ravenous says a variety of minerals are being sought.
"If you go to the west of Fort Frances, northwest of Emo, there's gold exploration going on. If you go east of Fort Frances, they're looking at gold historically in the Mine Centre area. South and west of Mine Centre they're looking at the the iron, titanium and palladium potential."
Ravenous says some companies are also looking at the potential of base metals and diamonds.
The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry says more than 65 companies are involved in activities in the Kenora and Rainy River district.
District Geologist Craig Ravenous says high commodity prices are helping these companies remain active.
"As long as commodity prices remain elevated and fairly high such as gold flirting with the $1,000 range," says Ravenous, "this increase and high commodity prices will attract investors to invest in the exploration programs."
Ravenous says the activity is at its highest level since the mid 1980's.
In the Rainy River district, companies have focused their attention on properties in the Emo and Mine Centre areas in particular.
Ravenous says a variety of minerals are being sought.
"If you go to the west of Fort Frances, northwest of Emo, there's gold exploration going on. If you go east of Fort Frances, they're looking at gold historically in the Mine Centre area. South and west of Mine Centre they're looking at the the iron, titanium and palladium potential."
Ravenous says some companies are also looking at the potential of base metals and diamonds.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Ice Box of the Nation - Even in Summer
International Falls is staying true to its claim as "icebox of the nation.
The temperature dropped to 37 degrees Sunday, enough to set the ninth record low of 2009.
The previous record for July 19 was 43 degrees, set in 1958.
The National Weather Service said International Falls has had an average temperature of 57 degrees so far this month.
The coldest July on record, in its entirety, was in 1992 with an average of 59.4 degrees.
The temperature dropped to 37 degrees Sunday, enough to set the ninth record low of 2009.
The previous record for July 19 was 43 degrees, set in 1958.
The National Weather Service said International Falls has had an average temperature of 57 degrees so far this month.
The coldest July on record, in its entirety, was in 1992 with an average of 59.4 degrees.
Highway Contract Announced
Another highway contract has been announced for work in the Rainy River district.
Pioneer Construction is improving a 26-kilometre stretch of highway 71 beginning at the junction of highway 11.
The contract is worth $2.8 million dollars.
Completion is scheduled for this September.
Pioneer Construction is improving a 26-kilometre stretch of highway 71 beginning at the junction of highway 11.
The contract is worth $2.8 million dollars.
Completion is scheduled for this September.
Forest Fires Increasing
There have only been 17 forest fires in the Rainy River district, but the Ministry of Natural Resources says there has been almost twice as many forest fires across the province as last year.
Fire information officer Lindsey Munroe says most of the blazes are probably the result of lightning, since people aren't likely to be camping in the rainy weather.
Last year at this time, there had been 165 forest fires, compared to 309 this year.
The only active fire in the Rainy River district is located in Quetico Provincial Park where its being allowed to burn to assist in the regeneration of the park.
Fire information officer Lindsey Munroe says most of the blazes are probably the result of lightning, since people aren't likely to be camping in the rainy weather.
Last year at this time, there had been 165 forest fires, compared to 309 this year.
The only active fire in the Rainy River district is located in Quetico Provincial Park where its being allowed to burn to assist in the regeneration of the park.
Ecstacy Pills Now Considered Phony
A find of what Thunder Bay police claimed in May to be nearly three-million dollars worth of ecstasy pills - has now been found to be worthless.
Police at the time charged a man with drug trafficking after finding the alleged stash in a parked transport.
Police now say the pills are fakes -- containing no illegal chemicals.
Prospectors says the charge against a 33-year-old man will likely be dropped.
Police at the time charged a man with drug trafficking after finding the alleged stash in a parked transport.
Police now say the pills are fakes -- containing no illegal chemicals.
Prospectors says the charge against a 33-year-old man will likely be dropped.
Missing Boater Near Kenora
A search is under for a missing Winnipeg man in the Winnipeg River near Kenora.
Provincial Police say 25-year-old David Christopher Pundyk was thrown from a boat into the river early Saturday morning after two boats travelling together collided with one another.
Two other people were taken to hospital for treatment of injuries.
Provincial Police say 25-year-old David Christopher Pundyk was thrown from a boat into the river early Saturday morning after two boats travelling together collided with one another.
Two other people were taken to hospital for treatment of injuries.
New Management Team in Place
Newsprint giant AbitibiBowater has taken the first step towards becoming a leaner company by streamlining its management team.
The senior executive team has been reduced to six from nine people, with more head-office cuts to be announced in the coming weeks as the Montreal-based company restructures under court protection from creditors.
AbitibiBowater wouldn't indicate how many positions it is looking to cut, nor how much money is expected to be saved from the exercise.
The head office operation includes 750 people, including those under full-time contract.
The senior executive team has been reduced to six from nine people, with more head-office cuts to be announced in the coming weeks as the Montreal-based company restructures under court protection from creditors.
AbitibiBowater wouldn't indicate how many positions it is looking to cut, nor how much money is expected to be saved from the exercise.
The head office operation includes 750 people, including those under full-time contract.
Young Anglers Open Tournament
(Aric Supinski - winner of Safeway Kids Pro Fishing Tournament)
Fourteen youngsters participated in yesterday's Safeway Kids-Pro tournament to open the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.
The catch-and-release style event saw Aric Supinski catch three good sized bass totalling 11.11 pounds to win this year's crown.
Aric was fishing with Mike Salvador of Sioux Narrows and Reid Norine of Wood Berry, Minnesota who will fish later this week in the championship.
Lynton Mounk had the biggest fish of the one-day event weighing in a 4.06 pound. He was fishing with Dave Bennett of Sioux Narrows and Brad Leuthner of Victoria, Manitoba.
Final Results
1. Aric Supinski - Pro-anglers Mike Salvador/Reid Norine - 11.11 lbs
2. Andrew Nicols - Tony Richards/Scott Crowe - 10.39 lbs
3. Danielle Jackson - Jeff Gustafson - 10.36 lbs
3. Hunter Calder - Jeff Gustafson - 10.36 lbs
5. Lynton Mounk - Dave Bennett/Brad Leuthner - 9.92 lbs
6. Noah VanHeyst - Ken Olson/Jo Olson - 8.47 lbs
7. Sarah Jackson - Joe Thrun - 7.67 lbs
8. Eric Cann - Larry Buttner/Alexa Buttner - 7.13 lbs
9. Dyllon Chapman - Phil Bangert/Rob Plumridge - 7.09 lbs
10. Brandon Bodnar - Troy Norman/Jay Samsal - 6.64 lbs
11. Rachel Devoe - Chad Buist/Rick Cooper - 6.26 lbs
12. Jacob Herbert - Dan Fraser/Nathan Bruyere - 4.37 lbs
13. Harliegh Brow-Rose - Roland Roy/Ryan Hastie - 1.08 lbs
14. Angel McCormack - Bryan Gustafson - 0.00 lbs
More H1N1 Case in Northwestern Ontario
Eight new cases of the H1N1 virus has been identified in the Kenora and Rainy River districts.
That brings to 68 the number of confirmed cases of H1N1 in the districts this year, compared to just five in the Thunder Bay district.
The Northwestern Health Unit is keeping to its policy of not identifying the exact locations of the confirmed cases.
Meantime, the Health Unit is also reported a new case of influenza "A".
Health officials say it's unusual to see cases of that flu strain at this time of the year
That brings to 68 the number of confirmed cases of H1N1 in the districts this year, compared to just five in the Thunder Bay district.
The Northwestern Health Unit is keeping to its policy of not identifying the exact locations of the confirmed cases.
Meantime, the Health Unit is also reported a new case of influenza "A".
Health officials say it's unusual to see cases of that flu strain at this time of the year
Underpass Closed
A reminder to motorists using Portage Avenue this week.
The Portage Avenue underpass will be closed to traffic from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. through to Thursday and again Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
It's to allow for the construction of the new walkway on the west side of the underpass.
While motorists travelling to and from Fort Frances' north end will have to use McIrvine Road, the underpass will still be open to pedestrians
The Portage Avenue underpass will be closed to traffic from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. through to Thursday and again Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
It's to allow for the construction of the new walkway on the west side of the underpass.
While motorists travelling to and from Fort Frances' north end will have to use McIrvine Road, the underpass will still be open to pedestrians
Forestry Shuffle Continues
A cabinet shuffle that will see the responsibility of Ontario's forests fall to the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines is becoming a little clearer.
Michael Gravelle, the minister responsible, says his ministry will be responsible for promoting the forest sector.
"The most simplest way of looking at it that we will be handling the business side while the Ministry of Natural Resources will retain the regulatory side," says Gravelle. "But we are working very hard to come to some agreements. We want to make sure our ministry is a very strong effective one."
Gravelle admits there are still some significant challenges ahead for the forest sector, but believes adding it to his ministry will give it a bit of a boost.
Michael Gravelle, the minister responsible, says his ministry will be responsible for promoting the forest sector.
"The most simplest way of looking at it that we will be handling the business side while the Ministry of Natural Resources will retain the regulatory side," says Gravelle. "But we are working very hard to come to some agreements. We want to make sure our ministry is a very strong effective one."
Gravelle admits there are still some significant challenges ahead for the forest sector, but believes adding it to his ministry will give it a bit of a boost.
Student Workers Protest
Students working at provincial parks are protesting a government decision to exempt itself from paying them for statutory holidays.
The Employment Standards Act exempts the government from certain minimum labour standards, including compensating employees for vacation and statutory holidays.
That means student workers will lose an average of $450 on vacation and holiday pay over the summer.
A number of information pickets took place over the weekend at provincial parks in southern Ontario
No word on any similar protests at northwestern Ontario parks.
The Employment Standards Act exempts the government from certain minimum labour standards, including compensating employees for vacation and statutory holidays.
That means student workers will lose an average of $450 on vacation and holiday pay over the summer.
A number of information pickets took place over the weekend at provincial parks in southern Ontario
No word on any similar protests at northwestern Ontario parks.
Lake of the Woods to be Under I.J.C.
The International Joint Commission is being asked to bring Lake of the Woods under its jurisdiction.
The I.J.C. deals with international waterways along the Canada/U-S Border.
Executive director of the Lake of the Woods Sustainability Foundation Todd Sellars says they been working with various levels of government on the issue.
"In the interim our foundation is continuing to play that international coordinator role, pulling together the governments around science and policy efforts for the lake," says Sellars, "but we're optimistic that within the next year we should have a formal agreement for Lake of the Woods."
Sellars says getting an international agreement for Lake of the Woods is one of the Foundation's key priorities.
The I.J.C. deals with international waterways along the Canada/U-S Border.
Executive director of the Lake of the Woods Sustainability Foundation Todd Sellars says they been working with various levels of government on the issue.
"In the interim our foundation is continuing to play that international coordinator role, pulling together the governments around science and policy efforts for the lake," says Sellars, "but we're optimistic that within the next year we should have a formal agreement for Lake of the Woods."
Sellars says getting an international agreement for Lake of the Woods is one of the Foundation's key priorities.
Missing Woman Found
A Kenora woman who had been missing in the Red Lake area for nearly a week was found on the weekend in good condition.
O-P-P say Valerie Cain was located near the Chukuni River, about 30 kilometers south of the town Saturday morning.
Police say Cain had spent six nights in the bush after leaving a Red Lake motel a week ago to go to work at the town's hospital.
She was transported to hospital in Red Lake suffering from dehydration and extensive insect bits, but was otherwise said to be good condition.
Police did not explain how or why Cain had come to be in the bush.
O-P-P say Valerie Cain was located near the Chukuni River, about 30 kilometers south of the town Saturday morning.
Police say Cain had spent six nights in the bush after leaving a Red Lake motel a week ago to go to work at the town's hospital.
She was transported to hospital in Red Lake suffering from dehydration and extensive insect bits, but was otherwise said to be good condition.
Police did not explain how or why Cain had come to be in the bush.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Portage Avenue Underpass Closed Next Week
The Portage Avenue underpass will be closed to traffic for a second week beginning Sunday.
The week-long shutdown of the road is from 9 in the morning to 7 in the evening through to Thursday and next Friday from 9 to 4.
Town officials say its to allow for the construction of the new walkway on the west side of the underpass.
While motorists travelling to and from the north end will have to use McIrvine Road, the underpass will still be open to pedestrians.
Access will be through a temporary walkway being set up on the east lane of the road.
The week-long shutdown of the road is from 9 in the morning to 7 in the evening through to Thursday and next Friday from 9 to 4.
Town officials say its to allow for the construction of the new walkway on the west side of the underpass.
While motorists travelling to and from the north end will have to use McIrvine Road, the underpass will still be open to pedestrians.
Access will be through a temporary walkway being set up on the east lane of the road.
Folk Festival Set for Tomorrow
More than 10 hours of music will be flowing from Little Beaver Snow Park this week.
The first ever Fort Frances Folk Festival kicks off tomorrow afternoon.
Organizer Alex Marusyk says there are more than 25 acts set to play.
"There's a fellow by the name of J.P. Hoe, he will headline it," says Marusyk. "Opening for him will be the Auditor General from Thunder Bay. We also have a band from Kenora called the Me Monster and most several local performers."
Gates will open at 12 noon with opening ceremonies happening at around 12:30 p.m.
The first ever Fort Frances Folk Festival kicks off tomorrow afternoon.
Organizer Alex Marusyk says there are more than 25 acts set to play.
"There's a fellow by the name of J.P. Hoe, he will headline it," says Marusyk. "Opening for him will be the Auditor General from Thunder Bay. We also have a band from Kenora called the Me Monster and most several local performers."
Gates will open at 12 noon with opening ceremonies happening at around 12:30 p.m.
Camper Numbers Down
Ontario Parks is reporting a decline in the number of people visiting area parks this summer.
May and June were pretty quite months.
Zone Manager Tim Sullivan says the cool weather impacted day visits.
"Camping is down in the northwest by about 16-per cent," says Sullivan, "and day use is down by about the same amount. Provincially it's not so pretty either. Day use is holding its own, but campaign is down by about 6-per cent."
Sullivan expects reservations in the coming weeks to pick up.
May and June were pretty quite months.
Zone Manager Tim Sullivan says the cool weather impacted day visits.
"Camping is down in the northwest by about 16-per cent," says Sullivan, "and day use is down by about the same amount. Provincially it's not so pretty either. Day use is holding its own, but campaign is down by about 6-per cent."
Sullivan expects reservations in the coming weeks to pick up.
Conservatives Focused on Native Issues
Kenora MP Greg Rickford says the Federal Government is doing its part to help First Nation communities in northern Ontario.
The Conservative MP joined with Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl this week to meet with aboriginal leaders in the Sioux Lookout area.
Rickford says providing education and training opportunities is the focus right now.
"We're looking to increase and improve their changes of going on and participate in a skills marketing place," says Rickford. "There's some exciting things happening here in northwestern Ontario that involve first nations communities as equal and integral parts of specific kinds of businesses. The first nations leadership has been asking for this and the Conservative government is delivering."
He stresses there is always more work to be done but feels the Conservatives are on the right track.
The Conservative MP joined with Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl this week to meet with aboriginal leaders in the Sioux Lookout area.
Rickford says providing education and training opportunities is the focus right now.
"We're looking to increase and improve their changes of going on and participate in a skills marketing place," says Rickford. "There's some exciting things happening here in northwestern Ontario that involve first nations communities as equal and integral parts of specific kinds of businesses. The first nations leadership has been asking for this and the Conservative government is delivering."
He stresses there is always more work to be done but feels the Conservatives are on the right track.
Calls for Residential Commission Hearings in NWO
Grand Council Treaty #3 says it would like to see the Indian Residential School Truth and Reconciliation Commission hold at least one hearing in northwestern Ontario.
The new co-chairs of the commission were officially sworn in yesterday.
Grand Chief of Treaty Three, Diane Kelly says residential school survivors in the region want to put their experiences on the public record.
She adds that there were 11 residential schools in the Treaty Three area and at least one hearing should take place in the territory.
The new co-chairs of the commission were officially sworn in yesterday.
Grand Chief of Treaty Three, Diane Kelly says residential school survivors in the region want to put their experiences on the public record.
She adds that there were 11 residential schools in the Treaty Three area and at least one hearing should take place in the territory.
OPP Patroling Local Waters
OPP have been busy on the area's waterways.
Police in the Rainy River District have logged more than 58-hours of marine patrol since the beginning of May, charging more than 20 people and issuing 30 warnings for a variety of provincial offences.
Constable Anne McCoy says one of their big focuses is looking for people who are drinking while operating their boats.
"We just want to remind people drinking alcohol and operating a vessel is very dangerous," says McCoy, "and can have dangerous consequences. Just like we run RIDE programs on the highway, we do check vessel to make sure the operators are no drinking and operating their vessels."
Police have also checked to ensure boaters are complying with federal boating regulations. Officers have been distributing Safe Boating Guides and educational materials to encourage compliance. McCoy says most boaters are complying with the rules, but they are finding some operators failing to have the basic safety equipment required.
OPP are also patrolling the waters with members of the Canada Border Services and the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Police in the Rainy River District have logged more than 58-hours of marine patrol since the beginning of May, charging more than 20 people and issuing 30 warnings for a variety of provincial offences.
Constable Anne McCoy says one of their big focuses is looking for people who are drinking while operating their boats.
"We just want to remind people drinking alcohol and operating a vessel is very dangerous," says McCoy, "and can have dangerous consequences. Just like we run RIDE programs on the highway, we do check vessel to make sure the operators are no drinking and operating their vessels."
Police have also checked to ensure boaters are complying with federal boating regulations. Officers have been distributing Safe Boating Guides and educational materials to encourage compliance. McCoy says most boaters are complying with the rules, but they are finding some operators failing to have the basic safety equipment required.
OPP are also patrolling the waters with members of the Canada Border Services and the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
NAN Election Candidates Announced
There's a full slate of candidates seeking to become the next grand chief of Nishnaw-be Aski Nation.
Incumbent grand chief Stan Beardy is facing challenge from current deputy chiefs Alvin Fiddler and RoseAnne Archibald, as well as David Neegan.
Ten people are running for one of three deputy grand chief positions.
Elections will be held August 12.
Incumbent grand chief Stan Beardy is facing challenge from current deputy chiefs Alvin Fiddler and RoseAnne Archibald, as well as David Neegan.
Ten people are running for one of three deputy grand chief positions.
Elections will be held August 12.
Positions in Bass Tournament Still Available
There are still some opening at this year's Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.
About 125 angling teams are currently registered.
Chair Tom Fry says their hoping to have a full field of 150 by next week.
"We're going to be taking teams right up to start of the rules meeting which is next Wednesday at 5:00 p.m.," says Fry. "Those teams getting in right now can take advantage of the new rules and be one of the first boats out on the water during the second day of fishing."
Anglers are coming from as far away as California, Texas and Alberta to compete for the $127,500 up for grabs.
About 125 angling teams are currently registered.
Chair Tom Fry says their hoping to have a full field of 150 by next week.
"We're going to be taking teams right up to start of the rules meeting which is next Wednesday at 5:00 p.m.," says Fry. "Those teams getting in right now can take advantage of the new rules and be one of the first boats out on the water during the second day of fishing."
Anglers are coming from as far away as California, Texas and Alberta to compete for the $127,500 up for grabs.
Small Town Mayors Seek 'Smart Moratorium'
Small town mayors across the province are calling for a "smart moratorium" on the closing of rural schools.
The Community Schools Alliance, made up of several municipal representatives from across the province, is pushing to get the province to change how rural and small urban schools are assessed for closing.
Chair Doug Reycroft says there needs to be a better system on how schools are now closed.
"A better system would better respect and value the input of students, parents, the community and the municipality in the accommodation review process," says Reycroft.
Next week, the alliance plans to ask for support via e-mail to all councils and councillors in rural and small-urban communities.
It's also hoping to meet with Education Minister Kathleen Wynne next month.
The Community Schools Alliance, made up of several municipal representatives from across the province, is pushing to get the province to change how rural and small urban schools are assessed for closing.
Chair Doug Reycroft says there needs to be a better system on how schools are now closed.
"A better system would better respect and value the input of students, parents, the community and the municipality in the accommodation review process," says Reycroft.
Next week, the alliance plans to ask for support via e-mail to all councils and councillors in rural and small-urban communities.
It's also hoping to meet with Education Minister Kathleen Wynne next month.
Robert Moore Construction Planned for Next Week
The start of construction of the new Robert Moore School in Fort Frances is set to begin next week.
Manager of Plant Operations for the Rainy River District School board Raymond Roy says a building permit is to be obtained today.
Earlier this week, town council signed off on a site management plan for the nearly 15-million dollar project.
Approval of an amendment to the town's official plan from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs was also expected today.
Manager of Plant Operations for the Rainy River District School board Raymond Roy says a building permit is to be obtained today.
Earlier this week, town council signed off on a site management plan for the nearly 15-million dollar project.
Approval of an amendment to the town's official plan from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs was also expected today.
New Native Schools Announced
The Federal Government is planning to build new schools in two northwestern Ontario first nation communities.
Construction on a new school in Lac Seul near Sioux Lookout is set to begin this year and will open in September 2011.
Officials are also hoping break ground on a school in Cat Lake in 2011.
Construction on a new school in Lac Seul near Sioux Lookout is set to begin this year and will open in September 2011.
Officials are also hoping break ground on a school in Cat Lake in 2011.
Water Problems in Ignace
Despite a new water treatment plant, a boil water advisory remains in effect in Ignace.
A number of problems with the control systems have plagued the plant since it opened in June.
Mayor Lionel Cloutier expects the problems to be corrected soon and residents should have clean drinking water from their taps within a matter of weeks.
A number of problems with the control systems have plagued the plant since it opened in June.
Mayor Lionel Cloutier expects the problems to be corrected soon and residents should have clean drinking water from their taps within a matter of weeks.
Delta Seeking Airline Subsidy
Delta Airlines has filed a notice saying it can no longer provide service at the International Falls Airport without government help.
The airline, which merged with Norwest Airlines last fall, filed a notice with the U-S Department of Transportation to discontinue service because it is no longer financially self sustaining.
The move is considered a formality for the airline to be able to apply for money under the essential air service program.
A decision on the subsidy is expected in the next 90 days.
The airline, which merged with Norwest Airlines last fall, filed a notice with the U-S Department of Transportation to discontinue service because it is no longer financially self sustaining.
The move is considered a formality for the airline to be able to apply for money under the essential air service program.
A decision on the subsidy is expected in the next 90 days.
Heritage Project Ahead of Schedule
Work to relocate the tugboat Hallet and former fire tower from Pither's Point Park to the Fort Frances waterfront is slightly ahead of schedule.
Community Services Manager George Bell says much of the work by Tom Jones Construction so far has focused around creating the new resting places for the local landmarks.
"According to their schedule they're a little bit ahead on the pile driving and on the concrete work," says Bell, "but they haven't started pressure washing the tower yet. They were supposed to have that completed by this time, but they've moved on the foundation and piling instead."
Bell says work on the banners and signage has also started.
Community Services Manager George Bell says much of the work by Tom Jones Construction so far has focused around creating the new resting places for the local landmarks.
"According to their schedule they're a little bit ahead on the pile driving and on the concrete work," says Bell, "but they haven't started pressure washing the tower yet. They were supposed to have that completed by this time, but they've moved on the foundation and piling instead."
Bell says work on the banners and signage has also started.
No Money for Scott Street
A section of Scott Street in Fort Frances won't be improved this year.
The town was informed earlier this month that the improvements between Reid Avenue and Colonization Road would not qualify for dollars under the province's connecting link fund.
Mayor Roy Avis says its disappointing.
"I feel the provincial government dropped the ball on this one," says Avis, "because they asked us to do a five-year plan. We sit down and do that. Those roads are funded 90-per cent by the provincial government, 10 per cent by the municipality, so it impossible for us to go ahead without having their support."
The town plans to continue lobbying for funding with hopes of putting the project into next year's capital budget.
The town was informed earlier this month that the improvements between Reid Avenue and Colonization Road would not qualify for dollars under the province's connecting link fund.
Mayor Roy Avis says its disappointing.
"I feel the provincial government dropped the ball on this one," says Avis, "because they asked us to do a five-year plan. We sit down and do that. Those roads are funded 90-per cent by the provincial government, 10 per cent by the municipality, so it impossible for us to go ahead without having their support."
The town plans to continue lobbying for funding with hopes of putting the project into next year's capital budget.
Closure Planned at AbitibiBowater Mill
There is news today of another shutdown of AbitibiBowater's operations in Fort Frances.
A one week shutdown of paper machines numbers five and 7 is to occur starting Monday.
They will restart on July 26th.
Both machines were idled for a lengthy period earlier this year.
Production at machine number 6 will also remain shutdown.
No word yet when it will resume.
A one week shutdown of paper machines numbers five and 7 is to occur starting Monday.
They will restart on July 26th.
Both machines were idled for a lengthy period earlier this year.
Production at machine number 6 will also remain shutdown.
No word yet when it will resume.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Water Money Flowing
Several of Minnesota's waterways will soon get a scrub-down, thanks to some new cash flowing into state coffers.
The money started to come in this month after Minnesota voters last November passed the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment, providing for a state sales tax increase to go to the environment and the arts.
The sales tax increase is expected bring an estimated 234-million dollars a year over the next quarter-century.
The money started to come in this month after Minnesota voters last November passed the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment, providing for a state sales tax increase to go to the environment and the arts.
The sales tax increase is expected bring an estimated 234-million dollars a year over the next quarter-century.
New Ownership in Works for Fort Frances Junior Team
Fort Frances appears posed for an early return to the Superior International Junior Hockey League.
B-93 has learned a deal is in the works between at least two unnamed parties interested in acquiring the rights to the Fort Frances Sabres franchise from current owners Scott and Caroline Kellaway.
The Thunder Bay-based owners had informed the league last month the Sabres would not be operating during the 2009-2010 season.
It's also not clear, though, if the new owners plan to continue to call the team the Sabres.
Although a deal have not been finalized, the league has included Fort Frances in the schedule for this season.
B-93 has learned a deal is in the works between at least two unnamed parties interested in acquiring the rights to the Fort Frances Sabres franchise from current owners Scott and Caroline Kellaway.
The Thunder Bay-based owners had informed the league last month the Sabres would not be operating during the 2009-2010 season.
It's also not clear, though, if the new owners plan to continue to call the team the Sabres.
Although a deal have not been finalized, the league has included Fort Frances in the schedule for this season.
Championship Set-up Underway
Preparations for the 2009 Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship are underway.
The event kicks off Sunday with the Kids Pro tournament.
Chair Tom Fry says right now the focus is on getting the site ready.
"Starting Wednesday we'll be putting up fencing and getting the felt covering down on the grass areas," says Fry. "Friday morning the big tent goes up. As of that day the street will be closed to through traffic. Through the weekend we'll be getting the interior of the tent and various staging completed so we're ready to go by next Tuesday."
Fry says volunteers are welcome to assist.
They can register at a volunteer tent being set up near the Sorting Gap Marina area. They can also register on-line or visit the FFCBC office located at the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce office on Scott Street.
The event kicks off Sunday with the Kids Pro tournament.
Chair Tom Fry says right now the focus is on getting the site ready.
"Starting Wednesday we'll be putting up fencing and getting the felt covering down on the grass areas," says Fry. "Friday morning the big tent goes up. As of that day the street will be closed to through traffic. Through the weekend we'll be getting the interior of the tent and various staging completed so we're ready to go by next Tuesday."
Fry says volunteers are welcome to assist.
They can register at a volunteer tent being set up near the Sorting Gap Marina area. They can also register on-line or visit the FFCBC office located at the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce office on Scott Street.
LCBO Workers Accept Deal
Liquor Control Board of Ontario workers have ratified a new collective agreement.
Employees voted Monday and Tuesday on the deal, which was reached on June 24 and averted an impending strike.
The four-year agreement includes a total wage increase of 7.75per cent, along with an increase to full-time jobs and improvements for casual and seasonal employees.
Permanent full-time employees also receive increased benefits and improvements to scheduling.
Union official Vanda Klumper says the agreement protects the livelihoods of permanent staff and makes measurable gains for casuals.
The bargaining team represents more than 6,000 members.
Employees voted Monday and Tuesday on the deal, which was reached on June 24 and averted an impending strike.
The four-year agreement includes a total wage increase of 7.75per cent, along with an increase to full-time jobs and improvements for casual and seasonal employees.
Permanent full-time employees also receive increased benefits and improvements to scheduling.
Union official Vanda Klumper says the agreement protects the livelihoods of permanent staff and makes measurable gains for casuals.
The bargaining team represents more than 6,000 members.
CFOB Owners Add New Stations
Owners of CFOB are adding to their chain of radio stations in northwestern Ontario.
Acadia Broadcasting has reached a deal to purchase Thunder Bay stations CKTG-FM The Giant 105.3, and CJUK-FM Magic 99.9 from Newcap for 4-point-5 million dollars, plus working capital.
Vice president Jim MacMullin says the two stations will be a great addition to its existing ones in Fort Frances, Kenora and Dryden.
“We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Newcap to purchase these two FM radio stations," says MacMullin. "We will continue with Newcap’s tradition of providing quality local radio services to the Thunder Bay community.”
The deal is subject to approval from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission and is set to close at the end of this year.
Acadia Broadcasting has reached a deal to purchase Thunder Bay stations CKTG-FM The Giant 105.3, and CJUK-FM Magic 99.9 from Newcap for 4-point-5 million dollars, plus working capital.
Vice president Jim MacMullin says the two stations will be a great addition to its existing ones in Fort Frances, Kenora and Dryden.
“We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Newcap to purchase these two FM radio stations," says MacMullin. "We will continue with Newcap’s tradition of providing quality local radio services to the Thunder Bay community.”
The deal is subject to approval from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission and is set to close at the end of this year.
OPP Funding
Ontario's provincial police force is getting $781,587 under the Civil Remedies Act.
The act allows the Attorney General's office to seize property used to commit crimes or bought with the proceeds of crime.
The bulk of the money, $246 thousand, will go to the organized crime unit to purchase four portable infrared cameras.
Another $262 thousand will be spent over two years to train civilian members of the provincial asset forfeiture unit.
A further $125 thousand will be spent to purchase laptops to help deliver crime prevention programs in each of the 90 detachments.
The act allows the Attorney General's office to seize property used to commit crimes or bought with the proceeds of crime.
The bulk of the money, $246 thousand, will go to the organized crime unit to purchase four portable infrared cameras.
Another $262 thousand will be spent over two years to train civilian members of the provincial asset forfeiture unit.
A further $125 thousand will be spent to purchase laptops to help deliver crime prevention programs in each of the 90 detachments.
Kenora Woman Missing in Red Lake
A search is underway in Red Lake for a missing Kenora woman.
OPP say 44-year-old Valerie Annie Cain after failing to show up for work at the Margaret Couchenor Memorial Hospital.
Police says she was last seen Sunday morning leaving the Norseman Inn where she was staying, but contact was received through a text message two hours later.
An employee of Lake of the Woods District Hospital in Kenora, Cain was at the Red Lake hospital to work extra shifts.
Meantime, a Facebook page has been set up to help in the search.
Wetlands Pilot Project in International Falls
The City of International Falls has been selected by the United States Army Corps of Engineers as the pilot for a plan to comprehensively coordinate state and federal wetlands management rules.
The City of International Falls had previously been awarded a grant by the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) to develop a 'Comprehensive Wetland Management Plan' under state law.
“This is a historic moment for the city, the Army Corps of Engineers, and BWSR," says Mayor Shawn Mason. "For too long, our residents and business owners have been frustrated that the city, state, and federal government could not get on the same page when it came to each agency’s obligations for regulation of development that impacts wetlands. We are now on the same page.”
Councilor Tim “Chopper” McBride, chair of the city’s Economic Development Committee says its recognition of the city's concerns that existing wetlands policies were hurting development in the city.
“It has taken a long time from our perspective to get an understanding from the federal government of the unique challenges our city faces when it comes to development,” says McBride. "We have now reached an accord with the Army Corps. They heard our concerns and agreed to use their resources to expand the plan we are presently developing to meet all regulatory requirements whether these requirements are federal, state or local.”
The construction of a new hospitals is among projects that have been impacted by current rules governing wetlands.
The City of International Falls had previously been awarded a grant by the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) to develop a 'Comprehensive Wetland Management Plan' under state law.
“This is a historic moment for the city, the Army Corps of Engineers, and BWSR," says Mayor Shawn Mason. "For too long, our residents and business owners have been frustrated that the city, state, and federal government could not get on the same page when it came to each agency’s obligations for regulation of development that impacts wetlands. We are now on the same page.”
Councilor Tim “Chopper” McBride, chair of the city’s Economic Development Committee says its recognition of the city's concerns that existing wetlands policies were hurting development in the city.
“It has taken a long time from our perspective to get an understanding from the federal government of the unique challenges our city faces when it comes to development,” says McBride. "We have now reached an accord with the Army Corps. They heard our concerns and agreed to use their resources to expand the plan we are presently developing to meet all regulatory requirements whether these requirements are federal, state or local.”
The construction of a new hospitals is among projects that have been impacted by current rules governing wetlands.
Tibbs Back at Council
Fellow members of Fort Frances council welcomed Sharon Tibbs back to the council chamber Monday night.
Tibbs put her municipal responsibilities on hold in May while she received treatment for cancer.
Tibbs told her fellow councillors Monday that's she's feeling a lot better and was glad to be back.
The long-time councillor also returns at the town's deputy mayor.
Tibbs put her municipal responsibilities on hold in May while she received treatment for cancer.
Tibbs told her fellow councillors Monday that's she's feeling a lot better and was glad to be back.
The long-time councillor also returns at the town's deputy mayor.
Councillor Pay Reviewed
A committee of Fort Frances councillors is meeting today to discuss the pay earned by the town's elected officials.
Among items being reviewed is the money paid to councillors who attend meetings.
Mayor Roy Avis, who suggested the review, feels remuneration may be one of the issues prohibiting younger people from entering municipal politics.
"I do believe that we have to attract the younger people," says Avis. "For young people who have a job or raising a family, its pretty hard to get away. If they have to get away and have to forfeit income, there should be some manner in our per diem basis that we can subsidize or help that person to attract new and younger people to this job."
Salaries for Fort Frances have not risen since 1992.
Avis says it will be some time before any recommendations are made and won't come into effect until after the next municipal election.
Among items being reviewed is the money paid to councillors who attend meetings.
Mayor Roy Avis, who suggested the review, feels remuneration may be one of the issues prohibiting younger people from entering municipal politics.
"I do believe that we have to attract the younger people," says Avis. "For young people who have a job or raising a family, its pretty hard to get away. If they have to get away and have to forfeit income, there should be some manner in our per diem basis that we can subsidize or help that person to attract new and younger people to this job."
Salaries for Fort Frances have not risen since 1992.
Avis says it will be some time before any recommendations are made and won't come into effect until after the next municipal election.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Hunger on Rise in Minnesota
Visits to food shelves in Minnesota in the first three months of this year were up 28 percent over last year.
According to a new study from Hunger Solutions, more than 237,000 children visited food shelves with their families in that time, making it tough for local food pantries to stay stocked.
Executive Director Colleen Moriarty blames the increase on the recession, increased food prices and unemployment that has shot up to above eight percent this year.
However, she says, with all the federal resources available, no one in Minnesota should have an empty belly.
"Accessing those federal programs will lessen some of the burden on the food shelves, because they were never set up to meet this kind of dramatic need," says Moriarty.
Food agencies have doled out aid to a record 614,000 people this quarter alone.
According to a new study from Hunger Solutions, more than 237,000 children visited food shelves with their families in that time, making it tough for local food pantries to stay stocked.
Executive Director Colleen Moriarty blames the increase on the recession, increased food prices and unemployment that has shot up to above eight percent this year.
However, she says, with all the federal resources available, no one in Minnesota should have an empty belly.
"Accessing those federal programs will lessen some of the burden on the food shelves, because they were never set up to meet this kind of dramatic need," says Moriarty.
Food agencies have doled out aid to a record 614,000 people this quarter alone.
Suspicious Fire - Burned Body Connected
Police in Thunder Bay say there's a connection between a suspicious apartment fire and a burned body found in a car.
Firefighters were called to the apartment fire in the city's north side Friday.
Hours later, cyclists found a burned male body inside a burned car found in woods along the Thunder Bay expressway.
The owner of the vehicle is a resident of the apartment and has not been located.
The body has been sent to Toronto for an autopsy.
Firefighters were called to the apartment fire in the city's north side Friday.
Hours later, cyclists found a burned male body inside a burned car found in woods along the Thunder Bay expressway.
The owner of the vehicle is a resident of the apartment and has not been located.
The body has been sent to Toronto for an autopsy.
Ignace Infrastructure Projects in Doubt
Two major infrastructure projects in Ignace are in jeopardy due to financial constraints in the community.
The Township recently received funding to upgrade three roads as well as build a multi-purpose recreation facility.
Mayor Lionel Cloutier says they're seeking more money from the both the federal and provincial governments to help lower the municipal share.
Cloutier says the projects may have to be delayed until next years to make it affordable for the community.
The Township recently received funding to upgrade three roads as well as build a multi-purpose recreation facility.
Mayor Lionel Cloutier says they're seeking more money from the both the federal and provincial governments to help lower the municipal share.
Cloutier says the projects may have to be delayed until next years to make it affordable for the community.
Report on Rural Road Released
A new report says rural communities should charge resource industries a fee for wear and tear caused by heavy trucks on roads.
The study by the Frontier Centre for Public Policy says the vehicles cause a disproportionate amount of damage to rural roads and residents living in the country are saddled with the costs of repairs because their municipalities don't have the tax base.
Rural municipalities spend about 40 per cent of their budgets on roads compared with an average of about 17 per cent for cities.
The study by the Frontier Centre for Public Policy says the vehicles cause a disproportionate amount of damage to rural roads and residents living in the country are saddled with the costs of repairs because their municipalities don't have the tax base.
Rural municipalities spend about 40 per cent of their budgets on roads compared with an average of about 17 per cent for cities.
More Forest Fires Reported
More forest fires are being reported in the Rainy River district.
One new blaze was reported yesterday bringing to 15 the number of fires in the district this year.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says it's looking at the potential of further starts as the fire hazard reaches high levels.
A small lightning fire along the northern boundary of Quetico Park is identified as the only active fire in the district.
One new blaze was reported yesterday bringing to 15 the number of fires in the district this year.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says it's looking at the potential of further starts as the fire hazard reaches high levels.
A small lightning fire along the northern boundary of Quetico Park is identified as the only active fire in the district.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
