Forest Tenure Act Introduced

The Provincial Government is taking the necessary steps towards changing the way area forests are managed.

The Liberals introduced their Ontario Forest Tenure Modernization Act in the legislature last week.

Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle says he welcomes the opposition's comments.

"Always constructed debate surrounds something as historic as this," says Gravelle. "This is a recommendation to move to a modernized and somewhat different forest tenure model. I have no doubt that my critics have some suggestions how this can be improved. I look forward to that."

Gravelle says the legislation will come up for second reading soon.

Area Politicians at OGRA/ROMA

The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association continues to fight for an improved transmission line.

NOMA is speaking with the Energy Minister at this week's Ontario Good Roads and Rural Ontario Municipal Conference in Toronto.

President Ron Nelson says there will be some topics that require multiple ministries.

"The Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines and Natural Resources, we have the topics of the northern growth plan, energy and the caribou habitat," says Nelson.

NOMA will also be speaking with the Social Services Minister about housing.

Atikokan Visitors Arrive

Sixteen students and two teachers from Ahousat First Nation, British Columbia, are now in Atikokan.

Their arrival Sunday is part of an student exchange with Atikokan High School.

Atikokan Teacher Peter Burton says plenty of activities have been lined up for their visitors.

"For them they're pretty excited to have the opportunity to get into some winter activities," says Burton. "We're going to have some cross country skiing, snow shoeing, downhill skiing and curling. One premier day is going to be on Tuesday. We're going to head north of town and we're going to have a full day of dog sledding and ice fishing."

A community event at the Atikokan Legion is also planned for Wednesday.

Old Bag Lunch Back

Riverside Foundation for Health Care is back its Old Bags Lunch fundraiser.

The event, though, is being renamed "Mama needs a new (or gently) used Bag Lunch.

Director Nicke Baird says donations are now being accepted.

"We're looking for more bag donations for the different categories this year," says Baird, "which are evening purses, everyday purses, designer backs, kids bags, beach bags and also local designer bags from local artists."

Donations can be dropped off in the garage at 911 Frenette, 525 Scott or the Foundation Office in Fort Frances or by calling 274-4803.

Atikokan Singer Nominated

An Atikokan singer has been nominated for an Independent Music Award.

Sunday Wilde is up for Blues song of the year for her song "That Man Drives Me Mad."

The winners will be announced later this month.

She's also eligible for the Fan Favourite award.

The public can cast ballots until July 11 by linking to the Independent Music Awards website.