Area First Nations Protest C-45

First Nations continue to speak out against the Harper Government and its omnibus budget bill C-45.

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A walk Friday from Couchiching to Fort Frances was part of the national Idle No More protests.

Couchiching Chief Chuck McPherson says it's not just aboriginal people who should be concerned with sections of the Bill that impact areas as the environment.

First Nations also see the Bill a threat on the Treaties.

Treaty 3 Grand Chief Warren White says they can't stand idly by.



November Crime Stats

OPP have seen a drop in some crimes in Fort Frances.

Just 49 charges were laid in November, slightly less than half the number the month before.

After a rash of break-ins and acts of mischief in October, police report investigating just a single act of mischief last month.

That being damage to truck.

Two drivers were also charged with impaired driving, compared with 7 in October.

Chopper Says Goodbye

A long-time municipal politician in International Falls is saying farewell.

Mayor Tim "Chopper" McBride ended 22 years in office with his last council meeting last week.

McBride says he leaves with no regrets of the decisions he's made.

McBride called for a continuance of Economic Development Authority and the summer concert at the Irvin N. Anderson amphitheatre.

Fort Frances Mayor Looks Ahead

Fort Frances Mayor Roy Avis says there's a lot on council's plate heading into the 2013.

At the top of the list, Avis says, is the town having to deal with the pending outcome of Resolute Forest Products assessment appeal and its recent idling of its kraft mill and paper machine.

The town is planning to review the water and sewer agreement with Couchiching First Nations with the land claims issue over Pither's Point Park front and center. 

Christmas Dinners Planned

Community Christmas dinners are planned on both sides of the border tomorrow.

Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau will hold its 25th annual event at Knox United Church beginning at noon until 2 p.m.

In International Falls, a dinner will be served from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Aurora Bar 'N' Grill on Highway 11 East.

Both events are free of charge, although donations are welcome.

Track Santa

Volunteers are pulling on their Santa hats, phone lines are set, and tracking screens are ready.

NORAD Tracks Santa is primed for its 57th annual goodwill mission.

NORAD Santa trackers will start taking calls this morning, telling children -- and some adults -- when Santa is due at their house.

The number is 877-HI-NORAD or 877-446-6723.

Updates will be posted online at noradsanta.org as well as on Facebook and Twitter.