City Banks Wetland Credits

The city of International Falls is purchasing 200 hundred acres of cedar wetlands.

The deal with Forest Capital Partners allows the city to create a bank of wetlands credits that can be applied to developments impacting other areas.

City administrator Rod Otterness says some of first credits will be applied to the planned construction of a new seniors home and hospital.

Both projects had been delayed for several years because lands they want are considered wetland areas.

Final Shopping Days Before Christmas

Some store owners in downtown Fort Frances are feeling good about the Christmas season.

Many are expecting those last minute shoppers seeking out those final gift ideas today and tomorrow.

Richard Boileau, manager at McTaggarts, says sales have been brisk at his store.

Mark Howarth of Leon's Fort Frances says a lot of big ticket items are heading out his doors.

Many stores are staying open late in the final days before Christmas with some offering gift-wrapping services to ease their customers burden.

Motorists to Start New Year with Impaired Charges

Six motorists in the Rainy River district face impaired driving charges as a result of the OPP's Festive Ride program this month.

More than four-thousand vehicle checks conducted since OPP stepped up enforcement at the end of November.

Two separate drug investigations also stemmed from the checks with officers seizing quantities of Ecstasy and marijuana.

Question of the Day - December 23

In response to a poll we had on B93.ca, 60 per cent of respondents say we're doing enough to prevent drunk driving in Ontario.

40 per cent aren't so sure.

Our poll questions will take a holiday break and be back next week.

Ornge Salaries Under Investigation

Ontario's health minister is looking into executive salaries at the province's air ambulance service after receiving what she calls troubling and concerning information.

Deb Matthews says she's sending a team of forensic auditors to review the financial documents at Ornge to ensure taxpayers get the transparency and accountability they deserve.

Nexus Used for Flying In February

Canadians with Nexus cards will soon find it faster going through security when they fly to the United States.

The use of the cards will take effect in February at several airports, including Winnipeg and Toronto.

The Nexus program allows low-risk Canadians and Americans to the board faster.

The card costs 50-dollars, and is valid for five years.