Riverside Takes Precautions

2009-04-28

06:48:07

Due to the heightened concern, Riverside has implemented precautionary measures at Emo, Health Centre, Rainy River Health Centre, La Verendrye Hospital and Rainycrest Long Term Care.

Visitors are reminded to not visit if they are experiencing any flu-like symptoms including nausea, vomiting, cough, and diarrhea. All visitors to the hospital are asked to stop at the information desks that have been set-up to self-screen and wash their hands before proceeding to Reception. All visitors must check-in at reception before entering patient care areas.

All patients reporting to Emergency must not be accompanied unless with a minor or someone requiring assistance. Patients must self-screen before entering by answering the following questions:

 1.      Do you have a NEW or WORSE cough or shortness of breath?

 2.      Are you feeling feverish?

Patients who answer yes to the first question will be required to put on a mask and perform

hand hygiene. Those answering yes to both questions are asked to inform the receptionist or nurse right away.

 Members of the public who may have symptoms but have not been admitted to the hospital are reminded to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly. Cough into a tissue or your arm/sleeve (not your hand). Minimize contact with family members and do not go into public places. Do not go to work until symptoms have resolved.

Ontario Swine Flu Reaction

2009-04-28

06:46:30

Ontario's top medical official says there is no need for the public to panic over the swine flu.

Dr. David Williams says there are no confirmed cases of the virus in Ontario and, at this point, it's a situation of increased surveillance. The province's acting chief medical officer of health adds given the size of Ontario, he expects there will be cases in the province.

As of Monday, Canada had a half-dozen confirmed cases of the illness - in Nova Scotia and British Columbia. Swine flu has killed as many as 150 people and sickened nearly 2,000 in Mexico.

Williams says it's a good thing the cases appearing in Canada and the U.S. are mild and moderate ones.

Fort Frances Death Follow

2009-04-28

06:45:16

A post-mortem is being conducted to determine how a woman found in a Fort Frances home on the weekend died.

The body of 23-year-old Courtney Jack was discovered Sunday afternoon in a Sixth Street West home.

The circumstances surrounding her death have not been revealed.

'A Wild Party' Coming to Fort Frances

2009-04-27

13:40:41

JUNO Award-winning Kim Mitchell will highlight this year's entertainment at the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship in July.

Mitchell's presence at the Championship was announced this morning on the the Can't Miss Morning Show with Christa Pare.

Mitchell brings with him a repertoire of hit music that date's back to the 1970's

"A lot of people perhaps know me for 'Go For A Soda' and 'Patio Latterns,' says Mitchell. "I was in band called Max Webster before that and we had six records. Then my solo career, there six or seven records with my last "Ain't Life Amazing, so there's a lot of material to choose from."

Mitchell will perform on the Thursday evening of the Bass Championship Week. Also hitting the stage will be Whole Lotta Angus, an AC-DC cover-band on the Friday event with Bon-Journey closing out the week.

Tickets go on sale this weekend at the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce Home and Leisure Show.
 

Swine Flu Response

2009-04-27

13:38:42

The province's health minister says the SARS outbreak of 2003 makes Ontario uniquely positioned to handle any possible swine flu outbreak that may take place here.

Health Minister David Caplan says there are a dozen suspected cases in Ontario that are being investigated, but says there are no confirmed cases at this time. Doctors, hospitals and public health units across Ontario have been alerted to the signs of the illness.

Meantime, public health officials confirm there are no cases of swine flu in Minnesota so far. Samples from 12 patients with flu-like symptoms all tested negative for swine flu. Testing will continue, and health officials expect to find some swine flu cases in the state eventually.

Tower and Library Up for Discussion Again

2009-04-27

13:37:44

The fire tower and the library and technology centre come back to Fort France town council for further discussion tonight.

Councillors are expected to consider a more than 1-million dollar contract with Tom Jones and Sons to move the Hallet and the tower to the waterfront. They will also discuss the possibility of holding a joint meeting with the library board to discuss the library project. A submission to the federal government for additional funding for the project is also on the table.

Tonight's meeting gets underway at around 5:55 p.m.

Lock it or Lose it!

2009-04-27

13:36:40

Area motorists are being told to either Lock it or Lose it.

The warning from the O-P-P comes in response to a rash of vehicle break-ins in the west end of Fort Frances. About a dozen unlocked vehicles in the areas of Biddenson Avenue, River Road and Olde Shambles Road were entered.

Police say items stolen ranged from loose change, cell phones and other personal items.

 

Sudden Death Investigated

2009-04-27

13:27:19

There's been a sudden death in Fort Frances

Provincial Police say the body of 23-year-old Courtney Jack was discovered in a Sixth Street West home yesterday afternoon. The cause of death has not been released.

A post-mortem is being conducted.

Broncos' Scores

2009-04-27

07:51:21

The International Falls Bronco's boys baseball team was successful in its home opener Friday against Proctor winning 7-3.

Chris Little hit a two-run homer and Dan Eldien scattered seven hits for the host Broncos

The Bronco's girls softball team was blanked 10-0 by Virginia Saturday.

The International Falls Broncos's boys golf team finished in a tied for third in the two-day Grand Slam Invitational high school boys golf  tournament on the weekend at Eagle Ridge Golf Course in Coleraine.

In individual play, Glenn Walls led all Bronco golfers, finishing tied for second, one-stroke behind the eventual winner.

Arpin 11th

2009-04-27

07:45:07

Steve Arpin managed to avoid the big crash and ended his night at Talladega Speedway on Friday with a 11th place finish in the ARCA-ReMax 250.

Arpin now sits 9th in the overall standings as the series head to Kentucky in two weeks time.

Festival Results - Friday Week 2

2009-04-27

07:41:16

There were several multiple winners on the final day of the Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts.

Maxwell Williams led the way with three first-place honours in the last day of piano competitions Friday. Taylor Shouldice, Oryn Albanese,Christina Empey and Alicia Adair each won twice.

The festivals top performers in piano, drama, instrumental and vocal will participate in the highlight's concert at the Townsend Theatre on May 9.

Here is the complete list of winners from Friday.

FESTIVAL RESULTS, PIANO DIVISION, Friday, April 24, 2009

 

CLASS P035

                First – Taylor Shouldice

                Second – Kayla Stang

CLASS P025

                First – Emily Loney

CLASS P021-I

                First – (TIE) Brianna Eldridge and Alina Eldridge

                Second - (TIE) Jillian Armstrong and Liam Quast

CLASS P021-II

                First – (TIE) Benjamin Mast and Marcy Anderson

                Second – Nicholas Veldhuisen

CLASS P024

                First – Yvonne McPherson

                Second – (TIE) Danielle Pearce and Paige McNally

CLASS P044

                First – Maxwell Williams

CLASS P034

                First – Moriah Carradice

CLASS P042

                First – Maxwell Williams

CLASS P031

                First – Taylor Shouldice

                Second – (TIE) Emma Keeler and Tianna Veldhuisen

CLASS P043

                First – Maxwell Williams

CLASS P906

                First – Danyelle Kora

                Second – Lauren Davis

CLASS P609

                First – Oryn Albanese

                Second – Audrey Chojko-Bolec

CLASS P709

                First – Alexis Sharp

CLASS P809

                First – Chelsea Carlson

                Second – Cameo Harrison

CLASS P909

                First – Alicia Adair

                Second – Danyelle Kora

CLASS P1009

                First – Christina Empey

                Second – Brittany Beyak

CLASS P608

                First – Oryn Albanese

CLASS P808

                First – Ursula Chojko-Bolec

                Second – Chelsea Carlson

CLASS P908

                First – Alicia Adair

                Second – Lauren Davis

CLASS P1008

                First – Christina Empey

                Second – Brittany Beyak

CLASS P501

                First – Lorianne Dueck

                Second – (TIE) Kaitlyn Sarah Chiasson and Lucas Koomans

CLASS P301

                First – Jilayne Derksen

                Second – Raymond Polz

CLAS P302

                First – Raymond Polz

CLASS P201

                First – Jordan Bruyere

                Second – Jazmine Coral-Hope Gauthier

CLASS P101

                First – Arthur VanAel

                Second – Caitlyn Rittau

 

 

 

On the Road Again

2009-04-27

07:25:33

The Ontario Breast Screening Program mobile coach is on the road again making the rounds of Northwestern Ontario.

From April to October the coach visits 30 communities from Wawa to the Manitoba border and north to Red Lake.

Spokesperson Laurie Delave-dova says they've booked all of their Spring appointments.

"People who have been with our program know were coming back," says Delave-Dova, "and they have gotten a letter from us that says 'hey, it's time for you to have your mammogram, again,' so they've called and booked their appointment. So there's probably not any appointments available unless we have a cancellation."

Delave-Dova adds women 50 and older can book mammograms for their summer and fall visits by calling  1-800-461-7031.

Expansion of Medical Services Planned

2009-04-27

07:24:48

Premier Dalton McGuinty says legislation is on the way that will see health-care professionals able to expand the services they provide.

For example, physiotherapists would be allowed to order X-rays, and pharmacists would be permitted to write prescription refills. Nurse practitioners would also see more responsibilities, including setting broken bones.

The legislation will likely be introduced next month.

Ban of Forest Chemicals Advocated

2009-04-27

07:21:53

Northern Ontario will still be exposed to some of the chemicals banned by the provincial government.

That's according to an advocacy group in Timmins called STRONG, or Saving The Region of Ontario North Group.

Spokesperson Al Simard claims chemicals used by forestry companies to stop competing vegetation are still dangerous.

"This chemical that they're using, they're using in vast quantities," claims Simard. "It's a fact they're unhealthy. That's why they're being banned in urban areas. Pesticide exposure is linked to leukemia and neurological problems."

Simard says Ontario should follow Quebec's lead, where chemical herbicides are no longer used in the forests and people are hired to remove the plants by hand.

 

More Town Council Topics

2009-04-27

07:20:21

Town councillors will hear from Fort Frances Fire and Rescue Fire Chief  Gerry Armstrong regarding Emergency Preparedness Week

Glenn Burton, district manager of Union Gas, will also speak to council regarding the company's construction plans this summer.

Several by-laws are also on the table for council consideration, including two which impact the future road improvement project on Nelson Street.

The public portion of tonight's meeting begins at about 5:55 p.m.

Joint Meeting Proposed

2009-04-27

07:19:29

Fort Frances Town Council will consider holding a joint meeting with its library board.

The suggestion is to be discussed during tonight's council's meeting.

Councillor Andrew Hallikas is among councillors who feel such a meeting may help the new library and technology project forward. He advocated for such a gathering last week during separate meetings held by the library board and council on the project.

Elementary Teachers Deal Reached

2009-04-27

07:17:15

A lengthy bargaining session last week has resulted in a tentative deal for elementary school teachers in the Rainy River district.

Both the Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario and the Rainy River District School Board announced the agreement late Friday. No details were announced, pending ratification by both sides, but local union president Sharon Preston is pleased with the deal, saying it will ensure four years of improved working conditions for the 130 teachers working in elementary schools between Atikokan and Rainy River.

Arpin Starts 18th

2009-04-24

08:11:49

Steve Arpin will start 18th in today's running of the ARCA-ReMax 250 at Talladegga Superspeedway today.

His qualifying time of 52.007 seconds was about 7/10 of a second off the pace of pole sitter Tom Hessert.

Today's race goes at 4:00 p.m. central time and can be seen on Speed-TV.

 

Fire Hydrant Work in Littlefork Today

2009-04-24

08:10:47

Fire hydrants in the city of Littlefork are being flushed today.

The Littlefork Water Department will be performing the work this morning.

Officials says water users may experience some changes in their water pressure and may notice a slight discolouration of the water while the works is being done.

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.

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.

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.

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.