Minnesota Business Community Offers Some Optomism

There's some optimism about the economy from Minnesota's business community.

A survey from BMO Harris Bank finds 58 per cent of Minnesota business owners plan to invest in their business this year.

36 per cent plan to hire more employees while 30 per cent plan to upgrade or purchase new equipment.

Of those not planning any investments, a lack of money is identified as the main reason.

Salad Recall

Dole  is recalling it's brand of Italian Blend salad from the marketplace due to possible Listeria contamination.

The product was widely distributed to Ontario stores.

While no illnesses have been reported, the recall was triggered by recent tests by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, that says may lead to a recall of other products.

Name For July 1-4 Activities Sought

Courtesy NCDS

Community leaders from International Falls and Fort Frances are resuming their cross-border talks next week.

Falls Chamber president Faye Whitbeck says part of the discussion will be around events that take place during July 1st in Fort Frances and July 4th celebrations in International Falls.

Whitbeck says they want to brainstorm the possibility of coming up with a name that ties the events together.

The group will also get updates on the Peace Pull, Riverfest and the Dragon Boat Festival.

The event take place next Wednesday at the AmericInn beginning at 6 p.m.

You're asked to register in advance with either Chamber of Commerce.

Summer Festival In The Works

Another summer festival is in the works for Fort Frances.

The Harmony of Nations Music Festival and Cultural Exchange is scheduled for the weekend of July 17, just in advance of the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.

Performers are expected from across Canada and the U.S.

More details are to be announced next week as the event launches a new website.

Go Local Anniversary

It's an anniversary the Go Local program.

It's been one year ago since the first reward cards were issued in the program encouraging local shopping in the Fort Frances area.

Consultant Tannis Drysdale says a recent study shows the program has high awareness in the community with at least half of all households surveyed having at least one membership.

There was also a 20 per cent increase in local spending by those with the cards.

Over 40 businesses are participating with more than $22-thousand in gift rewards issues to card holders since the program began.

PC's Call For Hydro One CEO's Job

Progressive Conservatives are calling for the firing of Hydro One's chief executive officer.

MPP Jeff Yurek says it's prompted by complaints the party's received over billing problems.

Yurek cites one business in his London-area riding receiving a bill for $233-thousand when it bill normally runs at about $4,500 a month.

Yurek says if Hydro One was any other business, the people responsible would be fired and a new team put in place.

Mine Safety Sessions Planned

An advisory group helping Ontario review mine safety is preparing for a round of public consultations.

They'll begin at the end of the month in Timmins.

Sessions are also planned for Red Lake April 30 and Marathon May 1.

A draft report is expected out later this spring.