OMB Blocks Housing Development

The town of Fort Frances is being stopped from developing housing lots on a parcel of land in the east end.

The Ontario Municipal Board has ordered the town to repeal a zoning by-law passed back in December for the area known as Nelson Street Park.

Kalan Kielczewski says its a huge win for residents who have long opposed any development other than a park.

In its ruling, the OMB says it supported the residents appeal based on an inadequate case supporting the park's disposal.

Training Deal Secured

Another partnership for a First Nations development agency in the Rainy River district

Naicatchewain Development Corporation has signed an agreement with Taranis Training of Thunder Bay to provide a number of training programs.

The Corporation's Tony Marinaro says it helps meets a need in the region.

Marinaro says the training will be a direct benefit to the Corporation and its many ventures that need skilled workers.

Award Winners Announced

Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of its Canada Day window display contest and July 1st parade.

Northwoods Gallery and Gifts, Taggs Sources for Sports and Makabi Inn were noted for their window displays.

The Town of Fort Frances, Bill Whiting and the Special Olympics were winners for their floats in the Canada Day parade.

Impaired Driver Nabbed

An Atikokan man has had his driver's license suspended after displaying signs of being impaired.

The suspension happened last Friday when OPP stopped a truck on Highway 622 after it left Bunnell Park and was travelling at a high rate of speed.

More Lightning Fires Detected

MNR file

Two new forest fires have been detected in the Rainy River district.

The blazes near Missus Lake, north of Fort Frances, and another near Jackfish Lake, north of Emo, are both identified as lightning-caused and small in size.

Another lightning cause fire burning yesterday near Albert Lake is now out.

The Ministry of Natural Resources is also identifying another small fire east of Atikokan.

It's cause is not know.  

Protect Yourself From The Sun

Ontario's doctors say it's important to be protected when your outside in the sun.

With the Rainy River district enjoying sunny weather, Dr. Doug Weir of the Ontario Medical Association says use sunscreen and be liberal with it.

Weir says take other measures to be protected because high SPF ratings on sunscreen aren't giving you the full protection you may think you're getting.