Friday, April 24, 2009

Festival Results - Wednesday and Thursday Week 2

2009-04-24

07:56:25

A triple win yesterday at the Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts.

Christina Empey captured three first place honours during the piano competitions.

Those competitions wrap up today at Knox United Church.

Here as the results from Wednesday and Thursday

FESTIVAL RESULTS, PIANO DIVISION, Wednesday, April 22, 2009

 

CLASS P806

                First – Rachel Lipinski

                Second – (TIE) Cameo Harrison and Jackson Gillon

CLASS P506

                First – Sarah Bagacki

                Second – Kaitlyn Chiasson

CLASS P406

                First – Jared Bethune

CLASS P403

                First – Jared Bethune

CLASS P503

                First – Kacia Veldhuisen

                Second – (TIE) Scott Barker and Lorianne Dueck

CLASS P407

                First – Jared Bethune

CLASS P507

                First – Lucas Koomans

                Second – Kacia Velhuisen

CLASS P307

                First – Raymond Polz

                Second – Beth Layne Ward

CLASS P1301

                First – Callahan Wiedenhoeft

                Second – (TIE) Katelyn Bruyere and Nicholas Veldhuisen

CLASS P012

                First – Connor Pocock

                Second – Jacob Gustafson

CLASS P013

                First – Connor Pocock

                Second – Alex Veldhuisen

CLASS P011

                First – Jacob Gustafson

                Second – (TIE) Emma Dawn Romanetz-Harland and Danni-Mae Mainville

CLASS P1502

                First - Tianna Veldhuisen

                Second – Moriah Carradice

CLASS P1503

                First – Kacia Veldhuisen

FESTIVAL RESULTS, PIANO DIVISION, Thursday, April 23, 2009

 

CLASS P050

                First – Callahan Wiedenhoeft

                Second – Caley Wynter Harland

CLASS P103

                First – Cara Sane-Calder

                Second - (TIE) Justis Gauthier and Arthur VanAel

CLASS P203

                First – Jordan Bruyere

                Second – Julia Quast

CLASS P303

                First – Jilayne Derksen

                Second – Raymond Polz

CLASS P202

                First – Jordan Bruyere

                Second – Jazmine Coral-Hope Gauthier

CLASS P102

                First – Arthur VanAel

                Second – (TIE) Caitlyn Rittau and Cara Sane-Calder

CLASS P107

                First – Caitlyn Rittau

                Second – Justis Gauthier

CLASS P207

                First – Jazmine Coarl-Hope Gauthier

                Second – (TIE) Julia Quast and Jordan Bruyere

CLASS P1003

                First – Christina Empey

                Second – Brittany Beyak

CLASS P903

                First – Lauren Davis

CLASS P907

                First – Meagan Empey

CLASS P1007

                First – Christina Empey

                Second – Brittany Beyak

CLASS P904

                First – Alicia Adair

                Second – Danyelle Kora and Meagan Empey

CLASS P1005

                First – Christina Empey

                Second – Brittany Beyak

CLASS P902

                First – Alicia Adair

CLASS P901

                First – (TIE) Danyelle Kora and Lauren Davis

                Second – Alicia Adair

CLASS P1304

                First – Lauren Davis

                Second – Courtney Peters

New Provincial Medical Officer of Health

2009-04-24

07:54:38

Ontario has a new chief medical officer of health.

Doctor Arlene King takes over her new post in June. She is currently director general of the Centre for Immunization and Respiratory Infectious Diseases at the Public Health Agency of Canada.

She takes over from Doctor David Williams, who had been serving as Ontario's acting chief medical officer of health. Williams will now return to his post as associate chief medical officer.

Rosehart Report Moving Forward

2009-04-24

07:48:50

The province is about to act on some of the key recommendations of the Rosehart Report.

The report - which identified ways of improving the northern Ontario's economy  - was released more than a year ago. Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle says expect some announcements soon.

"When it was brought forward by Dr. Rosehart, it responded to the needs of northeastern and northwestern Ontario," says Gravelle. "This, the timing is more important than ever before."

Gravelle says other parts of the Rosehart report have already been implemented, such as lower business education taxes and increased funding for winter roads and northern highway maintenance.

Occassional Teachers Deal

2009-04-24

07:48:12

Public elementary occasional teachers with the Rainy River District School Board have a tentative agreement.

The deal must still be ratified by the 85 members of the Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario.

But union president David Clegg says the agreement recognizes the experience and qualifications the teachers bring to the classroom.

Staffing Changes for District Schools

2009-04-24

07:47:13

There will be a new principal at Fort Frances High School this fall.

Al McManaman will take over the position now held by Gord McCabe who's moving to be principal at Crossroads School. It's one of several staffing changed announced the Rainy River District school board.

Elsewhere, Crossroad's acting principal Donna Kowalski returns as its vice-principal.

Peg Keffer, acting principal at Donald Young and Nestor Falls schools, becomes a vice-principal as Fort Frances High.

Jennifer Baker goes from the vice Principal of Donald Young and Nestor Falls Schools to that at J-W Walker.

And Vice Principal of Robert Moore School, Leslie Barr-Kellar will replace Brenda Ferris-Hyatt who is retiring as principal of Mine Centre.

Rafferty Missing From House

2009-04-24

07:45:39

Thunder Bay-Rainy River M-P John Rafferty is being criticized for not showing in the House of Commons Wednesday during a Bloc Quebecois motion in support of the federal long-gun registry.

The motion passed 143-136. Kenora Conservative M-P Greg Rickford says he's disappointed and upset northern Ontario New Democrats didn't take a stand to get rid of the gun registry.

Rafferty says he wasn't in the House because he was busy with forestry business and the vote came just before a scheduled meeting with CUPE.

 

Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls Council Cuts Taxes

2009-04-24

07:42:20

The Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls is marching to the beat of its own drummer.

While many municipalities are looking at raising taxes, Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls council has reduced them. Mayor Bill Thompson says the overall tax rate will drop 12-per cent this year.

"The council decided last fall that with the increase in municipal property assessment, properties in Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls went up considerable more than the province average," says Thompson, "we would negate that increased by reducing taxes an equivalent amount."

Thompson says combined with the education taxes, he estimates the average homeowner will see their tax rate drop about 10 per cent.

Tough Season Ahead for Tourist Industry

2009-04-24

07:39:40

Ontario's tourism Minister Monique Smith admits its going to be a challenging time for tourist operators in northwestern Ontario.

Some operators have already stated they won't be opening this year. Smith says the province is trying to help the industry as best it can.

"We have invested $2.3 million over the next couple of years with our northern stakeholders on the Northern Ontario Marketing Strategy," says Smith. "We're developing tools to assist in their web presence. A lot of people are moving to the web in their travel searches."

Smith says the operators should also be able to tax advantage of tax cuts to small businesses introduced earlier in the provincial budget.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Locals Part of Storm Win

2009-04-23

08:58:43

A championship title for the Northwest Storm, the region's under-14 girls hockey team.

The Storm defeated Nepean 2-1 in double overtime in Mississauga on the weekend to win the Provincial Bantam Girls Championship. Danielle Jean and Jillian Langtree of Fort Frances were part of the winning squad.

Badminton Title

2009-04-23

08:57:29

A member of the Rainy River High School's badminton team has won a NWOSSA title.

Courtney Hanson went five and oh to win the junior singles title in Thunder Bay. Jordan Hanson and Katherine Wetzel finished third in senior's mixed doubles.

Tornado Warning Exercise

2009-04-23

08:56:44

Emergency personnel in the International Falls area will be conducting a test of its ability to respond to a Tornado today.

Officials say the public should not be alarmed if you hear sirens - as it will be a part of the test.

The exercise is expected to conclude later this afternoon.

Educator Honoured

2009-04-23

08:47:21

A Rainy River High School educator has been recognized by the province.

Laureen Kuzyk, an educational assistant at Rainy River High School, was recently awarded a Premier's Award for Teaching Excellence as an Excellent Support Staff. Kuzyk was singled out for her energy and enthusiasm for education.

She's noted for purchasing used clothes and cutting hair for students who struggle financially, and tutoring students after hours.

NOMS Bursary Established

2009-04-23

08:24:42

The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association has reached its goal in establishing a bursary for students attending the Northern Ontario School of Medicine.

Chair of the Northern Ontario Medical Education Award Fund Ron Nelson says the $100,000 dollars it set out to raise has been achieved - mostly through municipal donations.

"The majority of that money came from the municipalities," says Nelson, "that back in the day, when we started this, we had just tremendous amount of support with backing dollars to obtain that goal."

Nelson says how the money will be awarded will be determined by Lakehead University and the School of Medicine. While the first graduating class will occur later this year, the first award may no be issued until next year.

"Because of the fall in the stock market, Lakehead University does not want to pay out any bursaries because it takes away from their capital money. The Medical School is looking at its differently."

Nelson says even though its goal was achieved, NOMA will continue to raise money that will be directed toward other medical needs.

Medical School Interest

2009-04-23

08:23:52

There's a lot of interest in the Northern Ontario School of Medicine.

The school says its received more than 1,800 applications looking for one of 56 spots at either the Thunder Bay or Sudbury campuses. Nearly four-hundred of them have already received interviews.

Letters of acceptance will be issued next month.

Forestry Subsidy Requested

2009-04-23

08:22:53

Thunder Bay-Rainy River John Rafferty is continuing his demands for a national forestry strategy.

The NDP forest critic says the strategy, which should include loan guarantees for troubled companies, will help protect thousands of jobs. Rafferty has also tabled a motion asking the government to match a subsidy provided to American pulp-and-paper companies. He says a matching subsidy will provide a level playing field for Canadian mills.

The MP says 45,000 forestry jobs have disappeared in the last two years and thousands more are threatened by the stagnating economy.

 

Blood Donor Clinic Off to Good Start

2009-04-23

08:19:36

It was a good start for the Canadian Blood Services yesterday.

More than 150 people turned out to the first of three blood donor clinics being held at the Fort Frances High School.

Community Development Coordinator Harvey Heather says the 120 units of blood collected yesterday will help area hospitals.

"This is a big part of our weekly collections that we have for 90 hospitals in Manitoba and northwestern Ontario," says Heather, "including the hospital in Fort Frances. We need about 1,200 donations of blood each week for patients in those hospitals."

The clinics resume this afternoon from 12 noon to 3:00 p.m. and again from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Hallet and Fire Tower Contract to be Decided Monday

2009-04-23

07:47:08

A plan to renovate and relocate the tugboat Hallet and fire tower from Pither's Point Park to the waterfront will be decided at Monday's town council meeting

Fort Frances councillors were told yesterday that nearly $100,000 in savings have been made to the original tender price following discussions with the proposed contractor. But councillor John Albanese still insists the million-dollar price tag is a waste of money.

"To be me wasting taxpayer dollars to move the Hallet and the tower.....sorry, I can not support that," says Albanese.

Some councillors feel the project will help boost tourism and further enhance the town's waterfront. Councillor Rick Wiedenhoeft says the work, on the tower especially, will be good for the town.

"The tower is going to be just picked up and moved and still be an ugly piece of junk sitting at the waterfront," says Wiedenhoeft. "It's going to be completely refurbished. It's going to be an attraction."

"I think people are going to want to up there. I think kids are going to want to go up there and look around. I feel that it more so than the Hallet is going to attract people to the waterfront."

Tibbs Withdraws Support for Library

2009-04-23

07:42:17

The plan to build a new library and technology centre in Fort Frances has lost some municipal support.

Councillor Sharon Tibbs said during a special meeting yesterday, she can no longer agree to the project going ahead. Tibbs who voted in favour of accepting a construction contract last week, says AbitibiBowater's bankruptcy announcement has swayed her support.

"With that announcement on April 15 and the economic crunch that this municipality is in, I think we should not consider building this library at this time," says Tibbs.

Council heard from project manager Brian Avis regarding his observations surrounding recent debate. Avis delivered the same message to members of the Fort Frances Library Board on Monday. Mayor Roy Avis says there's been a lot of talk about maintaining functionality, but little about ongoing operating costs.

"If council did agree to a dollar contribution, I would hope the building committee not only worry about functionality, but also the ongoing operating costs," says the mayor.

Brian Avis reiterated a need for council to decide how much money it would be willing to contribute to the project, no firm decision was made.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Falls Student State Champion

2009-04-22

12:46:30

A member of the Falls High School Speech team is a state champion.

Anna Remus took first place at the State tournament on the weekend in the Category of Original Oratory.

The grade 12 student has been a member of the school's speech team for the past five years.

New Chamber Member Appointed

2009-04-22

12:45:21

The Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors now has a full compliment.

David Ashworth, of Domino's Pizza, was elected to the board yesterday.

He fills a seat on the board that had been vacant since last fall's elections.

Keep Firesafe.

2009-04-22

12:44:11

With more than 300 wildfires already reported this spring, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is urging residents to take extra precautions to protect their property from fire damage.

Homes close to evergreens and the tall grasses of prairies or marshes are most at risk.

Jean Bergerson, information officer with the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center, says advanced preparations are very important for making sure homes or cabins survive an approaching wildfire.

"Be sure to think about clearing overhanging branches, trees and brush close to your home and stacking firewood away from your house," says Bergerson. "These simple actions can make your home or cabin less-fire prone."

Bergerson added that if a wildfire starts or comes near your property be sure to call 911 and let the professionally trained firefighters battle the blaze.

NORFAB Grant

2009-04-22

12:42:56

A Fort Frances manufacturing firm is one of 250 Ontario companies to benefit from some provincial dollars.

Norfab Building Components is among recipients receiving funding through the province's SMART Program.

The program helps small and medium-sized manufacturers purchase new machinery and technology to remain competitive.

Blood Donor Clinic in Fort Frances

2009-04-22

12:37:34

Canadian Blood Services kicks off its spring blood donor clinics this afternoon at the Fort Frances High School.

A clinic will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again tomorrow afternoon (12 noon to 3:00 p.m.) and evening (5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.)

Community Development Coordinator Harvey Heather says they hope to collect 400 donations and attract at least 40 new donors.

New donors are asked to pre-book by calling 1-800-to-donate (1-800-236-6283).

No Provincial Help for Attawapiskatt

2009-04-22

12:36:27

Premier Dalton McGuinty isn't prepared to declare a state of emergency in Attawapiskat despite complaints that noxious fumes are sickening residents in the remote aboriginal community.

Residents say they have been suffering from headaches, nausea and other ailments since an elementary school - which sat atop the remains of an underground diesel leak - was torn down in March.

McGuinty says it's up to the federal government to take the lead in Attawapiskat because it's their responsibility.

No Pension Bailouts Planned

2009-04-22

12:35:47

Premier Dalton McGuinty says he has no plans to pour cash into a pension safety net designed to protect workers when their plans go bust.

Earlier this month, McGuinty said there was not enough money in the fund to cover G-M retirees should their company go bankrupt.
 
He says there are other pensioners who have seen their nest eggs dry up and it wouldn't be fair to make them bail out auto workers.

Don't Answer That! - And Keep Your Hands on the Wheel!

2009-04-22

12:34:16

Get your hands off those cellphones Ontario drivers - a new law that bans using hand-held devices to talk, email, or send text messages while behind the wheel was passed today.

The new rules, which don't come into effect immediately, include a fine of up to $500 as the province joins other jurisdictions in cracking down on drivers using the devices.

The law doesn't affect the use of hands-free devices such as Bluetooths or using cellphones for 911 calls, but it does include portable video games, MP3 players and DVD players. Global positioning systems will be allowed, as long as they're properly secured to the dashboard.

There are no demerit points attached to the bill - unlike in other provinces - but drivers who place others at risk by using one of the banned devices can also be charged under existing careless driving laws. Ontario is the fourth province to enact such a ban, following
Newfoundland and Labrador, Quebec and Nova Scotia.

Business Resigns From Town Committees

2009-04-22

12:22:08

A Fort Frances businessman is speaking out in opposition to town council's decision NOT to accept a construction contract for the new library and technology centre.

Alan Tibbetts says council's vote last week failed to show good leadership for the future. And he's tendered his resignation from the the town's economic development advisory committee, the Fort Frances Business Improvement Association and two related committees.

"I feel they don't have a vision for any growth for Fort Frances," says Tibbetts, "and as an ordinary citizen, if council is not leading, then I'm not prepared to work on behalf of council either."

Tibbetts says even if council reverses its decision, he has no plans to withdraw his resignations.

Council is to discuss the library project at a meeting this afternoon.

 

Festival Results - Tuesday Week Two Results

2009-04-22

07:23:52

A change in the schedule for today's events at the Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts.

Due to a scheduling conflict, this afternoon's programme at the Townsend Theatre has been moved to this morning beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Yesterday, the second day of piano competitions was highlighted by performances from Caitlin Sande who captured first place honours in two events. Here is a list of all winners from Tuesday.

FESTIVAL RESULTS, PIANO DIVISION, Tuesday, April 21, 2009

 

CLASS P803

                First – Ursula Chojko-Bolec

                Second – Cameo Harrison

CLASS P703

                First – Caitlin Sande

                Second – (TIE) Kimika Alexander and Alexis Sharp

CLASS P603

                First – Audrey Chojko-Bolec

                Second – (TIE) Courtney Bethune and Anika Alexander

CLASS P607

                First – Caitlin DeBenetti

                Second – Anika Alexander

CLASS P804

                First – Jackson Gillon

                Second – Courtney Peters

CLASS P807

                First – Courtney Peters

                Second – Ursula Chojko-Bolec

CLASS P706

                First – Caitlin Sande

                Second – Kimika Alexander

CLASS P606        

                First – Anika Alexander

                Second – Caitlin DeBenetti

CLASS P1403

                First - Raymond Polz

CLASS P003

                First – Tori Sheppard

CLASS P001

                First – Katie Hicks

                Second – (TIE) Tori Sheppard and Brandon Pelepetz

CLASS P004

                First – Malikai Morrisseau

                Second – (TIE) Sarah Hillier and Brandon Pelepetz

CLASS P002

                First – Brandon Pelepetz

                Second – Malikai Morrisseau

CLASS P014

                First - Martina Morrisseau

Quest for the Best Changes

2009-04-22

07:20:35

The Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce won't be looking for its Quest for its Best at this year's Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.

Manager Dawn Booth says the popular singing competition is being moved to the Memorial Sport Centre at the end of June.

"We we're working with the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship," says Booth. "We hosted Quest with them since 1999. We used to do Quest as part of the winter carnival. We were just looking at ways to change things up this year and create some new excitement."

Booth says this year's event won't be just for singers. The chamber has decided to open it up to dance and comedy, hopping to attract a wider range of competitors.

Meantime, Kiddie Quest will be held separately in the fall.

Lotto Tickets Recalled

2009-04-22

07:18:52

Lottery officials are replacing or refunding tickets consumers bought during a three-hour period on Monday because of a computer glitch.

The wrong draw date was printed on 92 out of more than 560-thousand tickets sold between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. -- which makes them null and void.

None of the affected tickets were sold in the Rainy River district, but the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation says one Super 7 and one Lotto 6-49 ticket were purchased in Kenora.

New Anti-Pesticide Laws

2009-04-22

07:17:24

Experts say Ontario has the toughest anti-pesticide rules in the country now that its ban on the chemicals has taken effect.

More than 80 ingredients and 250 products are now prohibited from being sold or used for cosmetic purposes _ with few exceptions such as golf courses, farming and forestry. Quebec is the only other province that has similar anti-pesticide laws, but experts say its rules don't go as far.

The weed killer 2-4-D is banned in both provinces, even though it has been deemed safe by Health Canada. That could put Ontario in the legal crosshairs of an international trade dispute.

Dow AgroSciences -- which makes 2-4-D -- is challenging Quebec's ban under the North American Free Trade Agreement. It says the ban violates Canada's obligations under the trade
agreement because it has no scientific basis.

Environment Minister John Gerretsen says he's not worried about the possibility of legal action. He says the government made the right move by banning the chemicals to protect public health.

New Mining Act Coming

2009-04-22

06:57:08

The province's new mining act is about to introduced at Queen's Park.

Mines Minister Michael Gravelle says the legislation will be brought forward in the next couple of weeks.

"It's been a remarkable consultation process with the stakeholders," says Gravelle, "from the mining side, from municipalities and from the aboriginal, metis and Inuit people as well. The consultations have wrapped up. In a couple of weeks, you can expect the introduction of the legislation.

Gravelle says he wanted to ensure there would be clarity to the process and feels the new act will do just that.

Lower Hydro Not the Only Answer

2009-04-22

06:53:13

Natural Resources Minister Donna Cansfield says lower hydro rates is not the only answer to helping the ailing forest industry.

Some critics who point to Manitoba where lower rates are helping its forest industry. But Cansfield says since Manitoba's industry is not as large as Ontario's, its an apples and oranges comparison.

"Manitoba virtually has a minimal forest industry to say the least," says Canfield. "Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia are the main drivers of the forestry sector in Canada. Again, it's the suggestion that its all about electricity. If that were the case, we wouldn't have the problem with Abitibi in Quebec."

Cansfield says resolving the crisis is far more complex and will take the efforts of a lot of people before the industry can turn around.

AbitibiBowater Discussed

2009-04-22

06:52:14

Fort Frances town councillors may get a clearer understanding what the bankruptcy protection of AbitibiBowater will mean to the town.

C.A.O. Mark McCaig and town treasurer Laurie Witherspoon will be providing councillors with an update during a closed door session later today.

AbitibiBowater, the town's largest taxpayer, received protection from its creditors on the weekend.

 

More Library Discussions

2009-04-22

06:50:31

There will be more talk about the new library and technology centre today. This time, project manager Brian Avis will reiterate his thoughts about the project to members of town council this afternoon.

Monday, Avis told members of the library board it needs to know how much council is willing to contribute to the project before deciding a next step. Some councillors have suggested the town match dollar-for-dollar the amount of money raised by the board. Right now, that would equate to about $850 thousand.

Also this afternoon, councillors will get another look at the town's proposed operating and capital budgets, along with a proposed contract regarding the relocation and refurbishing of the tugboat Hallet and fire tower.

The meeting begins shortly after 4:00 p.m.  at the Civic Centre.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

OPP Time Capsule

2009-04-21

12:24:20

This July marks the 100th anniversary of the Ontario Provincial Police.

As part of the celebrations, the OPP Museum is creating a time capsule to be opened in 50 years. Constable Dave Cain says northwestern Ontario residents can contribute.

More information on the project, click the link to www.opptimecapsule.ca

Burning Restrictions Imposed

2009-04-21

12:21:33

The rapid melt of snow in northern Minnesota has forced the Department of Natural Resources to impose burning restrictions in three counties.

Effective this Friday at 8 in the morning, restrictions will be imposed in Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, and Roseau counties.

Officials says the restrictions will remain in effect until the threat of wildfires decreases.

New Driving Restrictions in Place

2009-04-21

12:20:47

Young drivers in Ontario will soon be facing new restrictions now that a government bill has passed in the provincial legislature.

The new rules impose a zero blood-alcohol limit for all Ontario drivers aged 21 and under.

But drivers aged 16 to 19 with a G2 licence won't be limited to just one other teen in the vehicle.

The government put the brakes on that proposal following a public uproar on the social networking website Facebook.

Green Schools

2009-04-21

12:19:54

The province is putting up $550 million over two years to make one-thousand Ontario schools more energy efficient.

The money will be spent to retrofit buildings with new energy efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems and boilers.

Premier Dalton McGuinty says the effort will create and sustain some 5,500 new jobs in the green economy.

Uproar at Legislature

2009-04-21

12:19:17

Attempts by Ontario's Liberal government to ram through its budget blew up in the legislature today as the Speaker twice lost control of the house during angry opposition heckling.

Speaker Steve Peters was forced to call two 10-minute recesses after the New Democrats pounded their desks so loudly they drowned out questions.

Several Progressive Conservatives joined in the ruckus, asking the Liberals to hold public hearings into the budget.

Festival - Monday Piano Results

2009-04-21

08:10:20

The ivories were tinkling yesterday at the Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts.

The first day of competitions in the piano division took place with Alexis Sharp the only multiple winner. Sharp won top honours in two categories.

There is more piano competitions today at the Townsend Theatre and tonight at Knox United Church. Here are all winners from Monday

FESTIVAL RESULTS, PIANO DIVISION, Monday, April 20, 2009

 

CLASS P801

                First – Rachel Lipinski

                Second – (TIE) Ursula Chojko-Bolec and Courtney Peters

CLASS P701

                First – Kimika Alexander

                Second – Rylea Lauzon

CLASS P601

                First – Audrey Chojko-Bolec

                Second – (TIE) Anika Alexander and Krista Emond

CLASS P802

                First – Courtney Peters

                Second – (TIE) Ursula Chojko-Bolec and Chelsea Carlson

CLASS P702

                First – Alexis Sharp

                Second – Caitlin Sande

CLASS P602

                First – Anika Alexander

                Second – (TIE) Audrey Chojko-Bolec and Courtney Bethune

CLASS P502

                First – Lucas Koomans

                Second – (TIE) Kacia Veldhuisen and Kaitlyn Chiasson

CLASS P402

                First – Jared Bethune

                Second – Robert Empey

CLASS P401

                First – Jared Bethune

CLASS P707

                First – Alexis Sharp

                Second – Kimika Alexander

CLASS P1704

                First – Chelse Carlson and Rachel Lipinski

                Second – (TIE) Krista Emond and Caitlin Sande AND Christina Empey and Meagan Empey

CLASS P1703

                First – Maxwell Williams and Lucas Koomans

                Second – Courtney Bethune and Caitlin DeBenetti

CLASS P1702

                First – Paige McNally and Erika Sheppard

                Second – Caley Harland and Cara Sane-Calder

CLASS P1701

                First – James Blattner and Conner Pocock

                Second – Brianna Eldridge and Alina Eldridge

CLASS P1302

                First – Maxwell Williams

                Second – Taylor Shouldice

 

Boston Marathon Finishers

2009-04-21

08:08:42

They weren't last, but they did finish the Boston Marathon.

47-year-old Conne Badiuk and 46-year-old Lori Green were among 25-thousand people to take part in the world's oldest marathon. Badiuk completed the course in 3 hours and 53 minutes while Green was a little farther back finishing in a time of 4 hours and 13 minutes.

 

Domtar Fined

2009-04-21

07:57:50

Domtar has been fined $87 thousand after an arc flash burned a worker's hand and face.

The incident happened in March of 2007 when an electrician was doing maintenance work at its mill in White River. While the worker was testing the voltage inside an electrical panel when an electrical blast occured.

A labour ministry investigation found the worker was not wearing rubber gloves or a shield.

Ontario Water Quality Report

2009-04-21

07:56:32

A new government report says more needs to be done to clean up the Great Lakes and other water resources in Ontario.

The study says government regulations and programs have helped to reduce the amount of toxic chemicals such as mercury and P-C-Bs that are found in Ontario's lakes, rivers and streams.

But the study also says new chemicals used in consumer and building products have been found in increasing concentrations in the environment.

Environment Minister John Gerretsen says the latest report on water quality doesn't mean there is a need to strengthen a bill aimed at curbing the use of harmful chemicals.

Boil Water Advisory Lifted in Atikokan

2009-04-21

07:55:55

Its safe again to drink tap water in Atikokan.

The Northwestern Health Unit lifted a boil water advisory late yesterday.

The advisory was issued last week following a mechanical problem at the town's water treatment plant.

Rafferty Slams Government over Forestry Strategy

2009-04-21

07:49:53

Thunder Bay-Rainy River John Rafferty says the Harper government isn't doing enough to help forestry workers caught in the wake of mill closures and bankruptcies.

Speaking the house of the commons yesterday, Rafferty accused the federal government for failing to bring forward a national forestry strategy.

"Over the last five years 45,000 jobs have been lost, large producers like AbitibiBowater and smaller producers like Buchanan Forest Products are going bankrupt," says Rafferty.

" Where was the elimination of the waiting period for employment insurance for forestry workers in communities right across Thunder Bay—Rainy River who have to go a full two weeks without any income when they are laid off? Where are the loan guarantees for healthy and profitable small businesses that are seeing their access to credit dry up"

"The government is apparently not interested in helping all forestry producers, communities and families get through this crisis. If the government wants to consider itself a truly national party in government, now is the time for a national forestry strategy."

Rafferty says his request for a national forestry summit was recently turned down by the federal Natural Resources Minister Lisa Raitt.

 

Road Funding/Support Sought

2009-04-21

07:48:26

Meantime, the city of International Falls is searching for some federal funding and county support for the construction of an industrial truck route to its foreign trade zone.

The city is applying for nearly $1.7 million from the U.S. government. Because a portion of the road will run outside city boundaries, the city is asking Koochiching County to share in the local cost instead of spending it toward a proposed by-pass.

The city says the country would save almost half-a-million dollars by supporting the proposed truck route instead.

Police Chief Retires

2009-04-21

07:47:23

The city of International Falls has accepted the retirement of its chief of police.

Chris Raboin will step down at the end of this month after eleven years as the city's top cop. The moved follows a decision by city council earlier this month to ask Raboin to take an early retirement package to help it save money.

Deputy Chief Darryl Waller will serve as acting chief until a more permanent replacement is found.

Library Questions Posed

2009-04-21

07:45:20

Members of the Fort Frances Library Board says they need some some clear direction from town council before they can determine the next step in building the new library and technology centre.

During a meeting yesterday, the board says it wants to know exactly how much money the town is prepared to contribute.

Project Manager Brian Avis says that will help determine what changes need to be made.

"Once the contribution is there, it will reasonably impact on the building footprint," says Avis.

Avis says if those two issues can be resolved soon, there is a good chance for construction to start this summer.

Councillor Ken Perry says the current size of the building and the total budget costs of $4.7 million remain two key areas of concern for members of council who rejected a construction contract last week.

College Plane Back Home

2009-04-20

The plane taken from Confederation College's aviation school in Thunder Bay and flown to the U-S more than a week ago has been returned to the College.

College officials retrieved the plane from Missouri last week. Officials say there was some minor damage to a wing tip, which has since been repaired.

Adam Leon, a student of the college, remains in a St. Louis jail, on charges of transportation of stolen property and illegal entry.

 

Pole Replacement Progressing

2009-04-20

07:43:30

Hydro One is past the half-way point in its project to replace a number wood hydro poles and transmission arms in northwestern Ontario.

Work has been completed on more than 175 structures along hydro one's 230-kilovolt power line between Atikokan and the Manitoba border.

Another 120 wood pole structures located between Kenora, Dryden and Fort Frances are scheduled for replacement later this year.

Pension Support Needed

2009-04-20

07:42:49

A coalition of labour and retiree organizations are calling on the Ontario and federal governments to protect pensions in the face of the economic crisis.

Canadian Auto Workers president Ken Lewenza says retirees helped to build Canada and should be guaranteed a secure source of income. The coalition was formed after Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty said the province's pension guarantee fund won't be able to support retirees if General Motors were to go out of business.

The coalition will hold a rally at Queen's Park on Thursday.

Municipals Seek More Help with Infrastructure Projects

2009-04-20

07:39:56

Municipal leaders are looking for a new funding formula to help cover the costs of local infrastructure projects.

Currently, federal, provincial and municipal governments each share one-third of the total cost. But Reeve of Machin township Garry Parkes says many smaller communities like his can't afford the local share.

"Shovel ready projects are great for larger communities," says Parkes, "but they are unavailable to the small population with a small tax base. What we need is some kind of change in the formula to deal with our issues in small communities. You give us the money, we'll do the project."

Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle says he is giving communities an opportunity to cover one-half of their share through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund.

 

Festival Results - Friday

2009-04-20

07:27:21

The first week of the Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts has wrapped up.

Drama competitions closed out the week. Here is a list of all winners.

FESTIVAL RESULTS, DRAMA DIVISION, Friday, April 17, 2009

 

CLASS A204

                First – Felicia Schmutz

                Second – Kayla Gardiman

CLASS A110-A

                First – Kayla Gardiman

                Second – Emily Donaldson

CLASS A110-B

                First – Michael Brady

                Second – Kasemer Hawrylak

CLASS A110-C

                First – Jonathan McCoy

CLASS A110-D

                First – (TIE) Justine Christie and Felicia Schmutz

CLASS A1301

                First – Melissa Fletcher

CLASS A1302

                First – Justine Christie

                Second – (TIE) Jonathan McCoy, Felicia Schmutz, Kasemer Hawrylak

CLASS A1306

                First – (TIE) Justine Christie and Michael Brady

 

FESTIVAL RESULTS, FRENCH DRAMA, Friday, April 17, 2009

CLASS F105-B

                First – Justine Christie

                Second –Kasemer Hawrylak

CLASS F203-B

                First – Michael Brady

CLASS F102-B

                First – Jade Green

CLASS F102-DI

                First – Wyatt McLeod

                Second – (TIE) Abigale McLeod and Avery Wilson-Hands

CLASS F102-DII

                First – Mackenzie Wright

                Second – Eric Matthews and Aiden Tullio

CLASS F103-A

                First – Maddie Sanders

                Second – Alyssa Chiasson

CLASS F103-C

                First – Shanleigh Fryer

CLASS F105

                First – St. Francis School, Grades 4 and 5 – Director:  Solange Busch

 

 

Local Entries in Boston Marathon

2009-04-20

07:26:21

It's a day of pounding the pavement in Boston for two area women.

Lori Green and Conne Badiuk are among the thousands taking part in the annual Boston Marathon.

The race begins at 9 this morning central time.

Arpin 10th

2009-04-20

07:24:57

It was a successful day at the track for Steve Arpin.

Arpin earned his first top-ten finish in ARCA-Remax Sunday at Rockingham Speedway in North Carolina.

The 10th place showing also moved Arpin up to 10th place in the overall standings.

Teacher Deal in Keewatin-Patricia

2009-04-20

07:23:57

Elementary school teachers with the Keewatin-Patricia District School Board have reached a tentative contract agreement.

The Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario says it reached the deal Saturday night. Ratification votes are scheduled for later this month.

Meantime, talks with teachers in the Rainy River district continue.

Hospital Funding Announced

2009-04-20

07:20:06

Area Hospitals are getting more money.

The North West Local Health Integration Network is providing nearly $3 million for thirteen regional hospitals for hospital upgrades.

Riverside Health Care Facilities will receive more than $545 thousand. Atikokan General Hospital will get $186 thousand.

Changes to Bass Championship

2009-04-20

07:17:53

There's going to be a new look to this year's Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.

The event is being shortened with the tournament starting in the middle of the week. Some events, such as the Parade of Boats and teen dance, have been eliminated. President Tom Fry says the changes reflect public concerns that a week-long event was too long.

"That's the message we we getting from the public," says Fry, "that there was too many nights involved. That was one of the reasons we saw a fall off of attendance in the first couple of days."

Fry says the elimination of the parade of boats was based on declining participation from anglers and lower than expected attendance at the tent site.

NOMA Executive Elected

2009-04-20

07:16:30

Dryden Mayor Anne Krassilowsky will continue as the president of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association.

Joining her on NOMA's executive include Morley township Reeve Gary Gamsby who will serve in an vice-presidency capacity.

Also on the board from the Rainy River district include Rainy River Mayor Debbie Ewald, Atikokan Mayor Dennis Brown and Emo C-A-O Brenda Cooke.

 

Municipalies Request Involvement in Land Claims

2009-04-20

07:07:58

Municipalities in the Rainy River district have renewed calls for more involvement in local land claims.

Stanjikoming First Nation is in the midst of a claim. President of the Rainy River district municipal association, Emily Watson says recent government correspondence leaves out municipal involvement in those talks.

"this letter is from Lees Hanson who is the senior negotiator, negotiations from the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs. She closes by saying 'I would like to assure you that I will continue to keep you updated as negotiations progress," says Watson. "Keep us updated? No mention of inclusion once again."

Watson says she did attend a meeting last June, but is waiting for an invite to further talks.

Minister Considers Tourist Centre Options

2009-04-20

06:52:56

Ontario's tourism minister says she'll consider ways of attracting more people to the province's tourist information centre in Fort Frances.

Monique Smith made the comments after touring the area Friday with Fort Frances town officials.

"We've got some work to do to better access the tourist information centre," says Smith, " and we're going to look at some creative solutions."

Mayor Roy Avis says better signage that directs people to the centre was among the ideas discussed. He says her tour of the centre gave the minister of a better understanding of the town's concerns.

"We've put forward briefs to the ministry of tourism many, many times," says Avis, "Now she's walked through it. She's seen it. Now she has a better understanding of what our problem is."

The number of visitors to the centre has been dropping in recent years.

 

Regional Government Proposed

2009-04-20

06:45:07

The development of a regional government is being floated by some elected officials in northwestern Ontario.

The idea was discussed on the weekend by delegates attending the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association meeting in Fort Frances. Schreiber councillor Patrick Halonen says it may give them more control over how provincial policies are implemented in the north.

"I believe right now that southern Ontario does really understand the north, and we're being dictated to," says Halonen. "They are making moves that effect northern Ontario people. Not southern Ontario people."

NOMA president Anne Krassilowsky doesn't fully support the idea of a regional government, but understands why its being discussed now.

"There is such a frustration of job loss, and direct and indirect businesses that are disappearing," says Krassilowsky. "I can understand that part, but we just can not create something we can't afford either and adds another cost to communities."

Thunder Bay councillor Iain Angus says the idea of a form of third-level government was reviewed when NOMA established the so-called Common Voice Initiative, but quickly dismissed.

"It would require a constitutional amendment," says Angus. "We choose the path, let's fix what we can to help the people today than some esoteric concept that might come in to being in 15 or 20 years." 

 

 

Monday, April 20, 2009

Tourism Regions Discussed

2009-04-17

13:12:54

A request to maintain Ontario's Sunset Country Travel Association is getting a cool reception from the province's tourism minister.

The province is looking at merging Sunset Country into a much larger tourism marketing organization for the entire northwest. Monique Smith says new body will be effective.

"The larger regions allow for better marketing for better products to be developed," says Smith, "and for a broader, more bank for your buck. So we want to work with our existing destination marketing organizations and with the regions that don't have anyone representing them to make sure we can marketing every part of region effectively."

Smith says the ministry will be discussing its proposal with industry officials later this month in Kenora and Thunder Bay.

Province Helping Forest Industry: Cansfield

2009-04-17

13:09:47

Natural Resources Minister Donna Cansfield says Ontario's not ignoring the province's forest industry.

Critics have argued the province isn't doing en ought to help the industry financially.

Speaking to area mayors and reeves in Fort Frances, Cansfield said her Ministry provided AbitibiBowater, in particular, with more than $150 million, including $20 million for its new biomass boiler in Fort Frances.

"We have been with them as they started to make their transition," says Cansfield. "The challenge they've got, in Abitibi's case, is that their entire global market has collapsed."

Cansfield expects the forest sector to survive, but will have a different look.

Crimestoppers Clearing the Air

2009-04-17

13:06:32

Northwestern Ontario-Northern Minnesota Crimestoppers is "clearing the air".

Coordinator Gary Potter is touring the region speaking to High School students about the program.

Potter says its vitally important to reach out to our youth.

"I believe historically we haven't spent enough time passing on this information in depth enough," says Potter, "so that people can really understand it. As these high school students mature and get older, hopefully they're going to have a better understanding of Crimestoppers than you and I did."

Potter says he also wants to ensure High School students feel comfortable about calling the anonymous hotline.

 

Hunting Fine

2009-04-17

13:05:36

A Sioux Narrows man has learned the hard way to clean up his mess.

A court fined 27-year-old Jess Swenson 600-dollars for failing to restore a conservation reserve site to its original condition. Swenson was ordered to remove the material he left behind at his deer hunt camp at Calendar Island in the Lake of the Woods Conservation Reserve.

The man was warned by the Ministry of Natural Resources before he was slapped with the fine.