There is a new officer at the U-S Border at International Falls.
Chico, a three-year-old German Shepard, is part of a new U-S Border and Protection Services K-9 unit that will be sniffing out illegal drugs and illegal aliens trying to cross the border.
K-9 Enforcement officer Pete Benedix says the first step was getting Chico acclimatized to the area.
"There's some different smells in the area," says Benedix, "so it's a slow process. You've got vehicles running, you got trains, so the break-in period was very critical. He's responded very, very well."
Benedix says he and Chico went through an extensive training program before has been placed at the border.
Monday, June 22, 2009
PC Leadership Vote Underway
Voting to determine who'll lead Ontario's Progressive Conservatives is underway.
About 40,000 party members are being asked to rank the four candidates in order of preference.
Vying for the leadership are Tim Hudak, Frank Klees, Randy Hillier and Christine Elliott.
The winner will be announced June 27th at the party's convention in Markham.
About 40,000 party members are being asked to rank the four candidates in order of preference.
Vying for the leadership are Tim Hudak, Frank Klees, Randy Hillier and Christine Elliott.
The winner will be announced June 27th at the party's convention in Markham.
Health Resources Required
Two northern Ontario New Democrat MPP's are calling on the province to provide the health care resources needed to stop the spread of H1N1 flu in First Nations communities.
Howard Hampton and Frances Gelinas also want the Liberals to address underlying conditions that are making the communities more vulnerable to the flu.
Hampton and Gelinas say nursing stations at many northern First Nations are already stretched to the limit.
Howard Hampton and Frances Gelinas also want the Liberals to address underlying conditions that are making the communities more vulnerable to the flu.
Hampton and Gelinas say nursing stations at many northern First Nations are already stretched to the limit.
New Centre Opens
A new outreach service centre for family and children's programs will officially open its doors in Fort Frances today.
The centre on Webster Avenue North is a partnership of several community agencies and will offer users services such as Best Start Hub children's programs, parenting workshops and a variety of health-related services.
The centre on Webster Avenue North is a partnership of several community agencies and will offer users services such as Best Start Hub children's programs, parenting workshops and a variety of health-related services.
School Board Reviews Policies
The Rainy River district school board is ensuring its meeting the proposed Student Achievement and School Board Governance Act.
Among other things, bill 177 entrenches student achievement as a key aspect of education and redefines the role of trustees and directors.
Education director Jack McMaster says the board will be reviewing its policies to ensure they meet the act's guidelines.
"We see there will be a need for some changes," says McMaster. "Trustees have been talking about that. They had a discussion in finance this spring about some of the changes that will be required to provide some more flexibility."
The bill is expected to become law this fall.
Among other things, bill 177 entrenches student achievement as a key aspect of education and redefines the role of trustees and directors.
Education director Jack McMaster says the board will be reviewing its policies to ensure they meet the act's guidelines.
"We see there will be a need for some changes," says McMaster. "Trustees have been talking about that. They had a discussion in finance this spring about some of the changes that will be required to provide some more flexibility."
The bill is expected to become law this fall.
More Council Items
Also at tonight's meeting, Fort Frances councillors will provide an update on the activities of their various committees.
Updates on the town's road projects and the relocation of the tugboat Hallet and fire tower to the Fort Frances waterfront are also expected.
As well, council is to discuss a request by a local resident to ban dogs from riding in the back of pick-up trucks.
The public portion of tonight's meeting is expected to begin about 6:00 p.m.
Updates on the town's road projects and the relocation of the tugboat Hallet and fire tower to the Fort Frances waterfront are also expected.
As well, council is to discuss a request by a local resident to ban dogs from riding in the back of pick-up trucks.
The public portion of tonight's meeting is expected to begin about 6:00 p.m.
Library Vote Expected Tonight
A decision to proceed with construction of the new library and technology centre could be made by Fort Frances town councillors tonight.
A proposed construction contract with Aurora Construction comes back to the table at tonight's council meeting.
Councillors rejected the same contract back in April, but a recent influx of more than $2 million dollars in federal and provincial grant money is expected to help give the project the green light.
Construction costs were last estimated at nearly $4.7 million dollars.
A proposed construction contract with Aurora Construction comes back to the table at tonight's council meeting.
Councillors rejected the same contract back in April, but a recent influx of more than $2 million dollars in federal and provincial grant money is expected to help give the project the green light.
Construction costs were last estimated at nearly $4.7 million dollars.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Natural Gas Prices to Drop
For the third time this year, natural gas prices for Union Gas customers in Fort Frances are dropping.
The Ontario Energy Board has approved an 8-cent per cubic metre drop effective July 1st.
Union Gas says its customers should see a 15-to-20 per cent decrease in their bills in the coming month.
The Ontario Energy Board has approved an 8-cent per cubic metre drop effective July 1st.
Union Gas says its customers should see a 15-to-20 per cent decrease in their bills in the coming month.
Increase in Forestry Program Down
Economic difficulties in the forest industry are causing many secondary school students to avoid a career in forestry.
Just six high schools have indicated their intention to enroll in forestry at Lakehead University this fall.
Doctor Reino Pulkki, Dean of Faculty of Forestry, says it's partly due to the misconception that students have with the program.
"Really there's a negative perception of the word forestry," says Pulkki. "People really relate it to the mill closures and the cutting and planting of trees when its really a lot broader."
Pulkki says graduates can find jobs in such areas of genetics, conservation areas, environmental law and education.
Just six high schools have indicated their intention to enroll in forestry at Lakehead University this fall.
Doctor Reino Pulkki, Dean of Faculty of Forestry, says it's partly due to the misconception that students have with the program.
"Really there's a negative perception of the word forestry," says Pulkki. "People really relate it to the mill closures and the cutting and planting of trees when its really a lot broader."
Pulkki says graduates can find jobs in such areas of genetics, conservation areas, environmental law and education.
Fire Hazard Increase
The forest fire hazard in northwestern Ontario has increased to moderate and high levels.
Five new fires were reported in the Ministry of Natural Resources West Fire Region yesterday.
Most of the 30 fires currently burning are in the Sioux Lookout and Greenstone areas.
There are no active fires in the Rainy River district.
Meantime, 78 firefighters and fire personnel from the northwest were sent to Alberta yesterday to battle fires in the northern part of that province.
Five new fires were reported in the Ministry of Natural Resources West Fire Region yesterday.
Most of the 30 fires currently burning are in the Sioux Lookout and Greenstone areas.
There are no active fires in the Rainy River district.
Meantime, 78 firefighters and fire personnel from the northwest were sent to Alberta yesterday to battle fires in the northern part of that province.
Search for Missing Officer Underway
A search is underway for a missing native police officer near the western shore of Hudson's Bay in northern Ontario.
An officer with the Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service and a worker from the airport in the community of Peawanuck were thrown from an 18-foot aluminum boat in rapids on the Winisk River.
The airport worker was able to make it to shore, but the 55-year-old police officer is still missing.
An officer with the Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service and a worker from the airport in the community of Peawanuck were thrown from an 18-foot aluminum boat in rapids on the Winisk River.
The airport worker was able to make it to shore, but the 55-year-old police officer is still missing.
Native Victims Programs Funded
Four aboriginal organizations in northwestern Ontario will be benefit from provincial money to develop projects that help First Nations, Métis and Inuit victims of crime.
They are among 21-provincial organizations to share in more the the more than two-million dollars.
The money is to help support victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, historic abuse and hate crimes in primarily underserviced areas of the province.
They are among 21-provincial organizations to share in more the the more than two-million dollars.
The money is to help support victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, historic abuse and hate crimes in primarily underserviced areas of the province.
Rent Bank Gets Money
A program to help low-income families in the Rainy River district avoid eviction has received some assistance of its own.
The Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board received $7500 from the province towards its rent bank program.
Housing Manager Diane Lampi says its keeps people in their home if they've missed a rent payment.
"The purpose of the program is to to promote the housing stability and prevent homelessness," says Lampi. "Basically what we are doing is assisting low-income tenants who have short term rental arrears to avoid eviction so they can get back on their feet and stay in the housing they are in."
Tenants can only apply for assistance no more than once in two years with a maximum assistance equal to two months rental arrears.
The Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board received $7500 from the province towards its rent bank program.
Housing Manager Diane Lampi says its keeps people in their home if they've missed a rent payment.
"The purpose of the program is to to promote the housing stability and prevent homelessness," says Lampi. "Basically what we are doing is assisting low-income tenants who have short term rental arrears to avoid eviction so they can get back on their feet and stay in the housing they are in."
Tenants can only apply for assistance no more than once in two years with a maximum assistance equal to two months rental arrears.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
AbitibiBowater Looking at New Funds
AbitibiBowater is still reviewing the details of a one-billion dollar federal aid package for Canada's pulp and paper industry
Spokesperson Seth Kursman says its welcomed news and appears both the Fort Frances and Thunder Bay mills may qualify for some of that money.
He says the company still needs more details about the fund and how it will be administer.
Spokesperson Seth Kursman says its welcomed news and appears both the Fort Frances and Thunder Bay mills may qualify for some of that money.
He says the company still needs more details about the fund and how it will be administer.
Youth Coming Back Soon
A timetable has now been set to bring youth housed in a Thunder Bay facility back to the native youth detention centre in Fort Frances.
A spokesperson with the Ministry of Children and Youth Services now says arrangements are being made to have all six returned to the Ge-Da-Gi-Binez Youth Centre by the end of this month.
All of the centre's youth were removed following an altercation between five youth and two staff members on June 3rd.
Ministry and centre staff have been meeting since to review the incident.
A spokesperson with the Ministry of Children and Youth Services now says arrangements are being made to have all six returned to the Ge-Da-Gi-Binez Youth Centre by the end of this month.
All of the centre's youth were removed following an altercation between five youth and two staff members on June 3rd.
Ministry and centre staff have been meeting since to review the incident.
Police Looking for Owner of Found Money
Someone who made a clothing donation to a Thunder Bay Value Village discount store may have been more generous than they intended.
Police say several thousand dollars in cash was found mixed in with clothing donations made to the store last August
But where the money came from remains anybodys guess.
Police are hoping someone will come forward to claim the money.
Police say several thousand dollars in cash was found mixed in with clothing donations made to the store last August
But where the money came from remains anybodys guess.
Police are hoping someone will come forward to claim the money.
ehealth Changes
The chairman of the e-Health board has resigned, but opposition parties say Health Minister David Caplan should also go.
Doctor Alan Hudson follows C-E-O Sarah Kramer out the door after she received a $314thousand payout.
The departures come after the agency awarded millions of dollars in untendered consulting contracts.
Meantime, the premier says government ministries and agencies will no longer be allowed to award contracts to consultants without a competitive bidding process.
Premier Dalton McGuinty made the changes as he moved to quash a growing scandal at eHealth.
He says the agency should not have awarded $5 million in untendered consulting contracts.
Doctor Alan Hudson follows C-E-O Sarah Kramer out the door after she received a $314thousand payout.
The departures come after the agency awarded millions of dollars in untendered consulting contracts.
Meantime, the premier says government ministries and agencies will no longer be allowed to award contracts to consultants without a competitive bidding process.
Premier Dalton McGuinty made the changes as he moved to quash a growing scandal at eHealth.
He says the agency should not have awarded $5 million in untendered consulting contracts.
Admission Guidelines Change
The Ontario government is loosening the rules for students to be eligible to attend French schools.
The province has instructed French school boards to make their classes more ``welcoming'' to children whose grandparents' first language is French and to French-speaking new Canadians.
The education ministry says the move will streamline admission guidelines in Ontario's 12 French school boards.
The province has instructed French school boards to make their classes more ``welcoming'' to children whose grandparents' first language is French and to French-speaking new Canadians.
The education ministry says the move will streamline admission guidelines in Ontario's 12 French school boards.
Forest Fire Help to Alberta
More help from Ontario is heading west to battle forest fires.
About 118 Ministry of Natural Resources firefighters and support staff are expected to leave for northern Alberta today
With 175 personnel already in BC, spokesperson Debbie MacLean says this latest deployment won't leave resources thin in northwestern Ontario.
"We do still have fire crews at all bases," says MacLean. "In addition, we have the capability of bringing in what we call type 2 crews. We have already called them in and resources are adequate."
MacLean says the number of people being sent to Alberta could be also reduced if the forest fire situation changes.
Six new fires were reported yesterday in the West Fire Region with active ones burning in the Dryden, Sioux Lookout and Red Lake areas.
There are no active fires in the Fort Frances fire district.
About 118 Ministry of Natural Resources firefighters and support staff are expected to leave for northern Alberta today
With 175 personnel already in BC, spokesperson Debbie MacLean says this latest deployment won't leave resources thin in northwestern Ontario.
"We do still have fire crews at all bases," says MacLean. "In addition, we have the capability of bringing in what we call type 2 crews. We have already called them in and resources are adequate."
MacLean says the number of people being sent to Alberta could be also reduced if the forest fire situation changes.
Six new fires were reported yesterday in the West Fire Region with active ones burning in the Dryden, Sioux Lookout and Red Lake areas.
There are no active fires in the Fort Frances fire district.
Federal Aid Package Panned
N-D-P's forestry critic says a new aid package for Canada's forest industry doesn't address the issues impacting the industry.
Ottawa is providing the struggling pulp and paper industry with a billion dollars for capital improvements that increases productions and use of clean energy.
But Thunder Bay-Rainy River M-P John Rafferty says doubts it will help mills or their workers much.
"While this is welcomed and certainly the environmental measures at pulp and paper mills is good," says Rafferty, "but not everyone is going to be able to access that. This announcement doesn't create one forestry job, nor does it safe one forestry job."
Rafferty is also disappointed the government won't meet the "black liquor" subsidies provided to U-S mills.
Ottawa is providing the struggling pulp and paper industry with a billion dollars for capital improvements that increases productions and use of clean energy.
But Thunder Bay-Rainy River M-P John Rafferty says doubts it will help mills or their workers much.
"While this is welcomed and certainly the environmental measures at pulp and paper mills is good," says Rafferty, "but not everyone is going to be able to access that. This announcement doesn't create one forestry job, nor does it safe one forestry job."
Rafferty is also disappointed the government won't meet the "black liquor" subsidies provided to U-S mills.
Youth Detention Centre Still Empty
There is no word yet when youth moved to Thunder Bay will return to the native youth detention in Fort Frances.
The centre's six youth were sent to the city's facility following a June 3rd altercation between some of the youth detained at the Ge-Da-Gi-Binez Youth Centre and two staff members.
A spokesperson with the Ministry of Children and Youth Services says ministry and centre staff are still reviewing the incident and discussing a possible return of the youth.
But Anne Smith could not say when that would happen.
The centre's six youth were sent to the city's facility following a June 3rd altercation between some of the youth detained at the Ge-Da-Gi-Binez Youth Centre and two staff members.
A spokesperson with the Ministry of Children and Youth Services says ministry and centre staff are still reviewing the incident and discussing a possible return of the youth.
But Anne Smith could not say when that would happen.
Flu Numbers Up in Ontario
The numbers in northwestern Ontario has brought the province's total of H1N1 flu cases to over 2,200.
As of Tuesday, eighteen people with the virus were in hospital, although the province says a number of those people have underlying medical conditions.
Most of the people who were infected with the virus have recovered.
So far, two people in Ontario have died after contracting swine flu but both had chronic medical conditions.
As of Tuesday, eighteen people with the virus were in hospital, although the province says a number of those people have underlying medical conditions.
Most of the people who were infected with the virus have recovered.
So far, two people in Ontario have died after contracting swine flu but both had chronic medical conditions.
H1N1 Cases in Northwest Increase
The presence of the H1N1 flu virus in the far north has spiked the number of cases in northwestern Ontario.
The Northwestern Health Unit says there are now 26 confirmed cases of the flu.
Medical Officer of Health Doctor James Arthurs says the pandemic is having a big impact on remote First Nation communities.
"The leadership of first nations communities is also working with Health Canada," says Arthurs, "working with the public health agency of Canada and the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care in Ontario to address the situation and identify any support from Ontario."
Arthurs says anti-viral medications are available in most remote communities to treat those who are effected.
But Arthurs say the Health Unit won't be revealing the communities impacted by the flu based on discussion with a number of agencies, including First Nations leaders.
The Northwestern Health Unit says there are now 26 confirmed cases of the flu.
Medical Officer of Health Doctor James Arthurs says the pandemic is having a big impact on remote First Nation communities.
"The leadership of first nations communities is also working with Health Canada," says Arthurs, "working with the public health agency of Canada and the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care in Ontario to address the situation and identify any support from Ontario."
Arthurs says anti-viral medications are available in most remote communities to treat those who are effected.
But Arthurs say the Health Unit won't be revealing the communities impacted by the flu based on discussion with a number of agencies, including First Nations leaders.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
MNR Enforcement Blitz Results Released
The Ministry of Natural Resources has released the results of a roadside check of anglers conducted last month.
The enforcement blitz held on the U-S Memorial Day resulted in 17 charges and five warnings.
Charges and warnings were issued for possessing an over limit of fish, making a false statement to a conservation officer, transporting fish taken unlawfully as they were in a restricted size range, unlawfully packaged fish which could not readily be counted, identified or measured and
a range of licence infractions, including fishing without a licence and failing to produce a licence.
As a result of a false statement made to a conservation officer at the road check, an investigation is underway, which may result in additional charges.
Almost 350 anglers were checked by Conservation and Treaty 3 police officers during the blitz.
The enforcement blitz held on the U-S Memorial Day resulted in 17 charges and five warnings.
Charges and warnings were issued for possessing an over limit of fish, making a false statement to a conservation officer, transporting fish taken unlawfully as they were in a restricted size range, unlawfully packaged fish which could not readily be counted, identified or measured and
a range of licence infractions, including fishing without a licence and failing to produce a licence.
As a result of a false statement made to a conservation officer at the road check, an investigation is underway, which may result in additional charges.
Almost 350 anglers were checked by Conservation and Treaty 3 police officers during the blitz.
New Fire Starts in Northwestern Ontario
Warm temperatures and dry conditions are pushing up the forest fire hazard in northwestern Ontario.
Yesterday, eight new fires confirmed in the Ministry of Natural Resources' West Fire Region.
Among them a small blaze 25 kilometres northeast of Mine Centre that started when a piece of industrial equipment caught fire.
Forestry workers on site helped to minimize the fire's spread which was smouldering by the time a Fire Ranger crew arrived.
Yesterday, eight new fires confirmed in the Ministry of Natural Resources' West Fire Region.
Among them a small blaze 25 kilometres northeast of Mine Centre that started when a piece of industrial equipment caught fire.
Forestry workers on site helped to minimize the fire's spread which was smouldering by the time a Fire Ranger crew arrived.
Highway Work Underway
The province hopes to create nearly five-thousand jobs across northern Ontario with $648 million dollars in road and highway projects.
Among projects taking place in the Rainy River district include the third phase of rehabilitation of the Noden Causeway.
Work on 21 kilometres of Highway 11, east of Fort Frances and another 15 kilometres near Atikokan are already taking place.
A 24 kilometre stretch of Highway 71 from the Highway 11 junction and 18 kilometres of Highway 502 from Highway 11 will also receive upgrades.
Among projects taking place in the Rainy River district include the third phase of rehabilitation of the Noden Causeway.
Work on 21 kilometres of Highway 11, east of Fort Frances and another 15 kilometres near Atikokan are already taking place.
A 24 kilometre stretch of Highway 71 from the Highway 11 junction and 18 kilometres of Highway 502 from Highway 11 will also receive upgrades.
Commercial Vehicle Blitz Underway
O-P-P across northwestern Ontario will be on the lookout for unsafe and aggressive commercial vehicle drivers over the next 24-hours.
'Operation Corridor' will focus on Highways 11 and 17.
Acting Traffic Manager for the Northwest Region Brent Anderson says even though Commercial carriers are among the safest drivers, an average of 50-charges are laid for various infractions during the 24-hour blitz.
'Operation Corridor' will focus on Highways 11 and 17.
Acting Traffic Manager for the Northwest Region Brent Anderson says even though Commercial carriers are among the safest drivers, an average of 50-charges are laid for various infractions during the 24-hour blitz.
Local Graduates Receive Nursing Degrees
It was also an historic night for five students at Confederation College's Convocation Ceremonies in Fort Frances.
They were among twenty across northwestern Ontario to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Lakehead University through a community-based nursing program delivered at the College's regional campus.
Director at LU's School of Nursing Karen Poole says four-year pilot program was a huge success.
"What we've been able to do is bring the education to the students so they can stay, live in their own communities," says Poole, "practice nursing in their own communities. Now that they've finished the four years, they have jobs and we hope they can stay in the communities and contribute to the health of northwestern Ontario in that way. We are very pleased to have reached this point."
Students who enrolled in the program at the Rainy River district campus say the program has already helped them land jobs locally.
Both Lakehead University and Confederation College plan to evaluate the program with the hope of offering it again in 2010.
They were among twenty across northwestern Ontario to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Lakehead University through a community-based nursing program delivered at the College's regional campus.
Director at LU's School of Nursing Karen Poole says four-year pilot program was a huge success.
"What we've been able to do is bring the education to the students so they can stay, live in their own communities," says Poole, "practice nursing in their own communities. Now that they've finished the four years, they have jobs and we hope they can stay in the communities and contribute to the health of northwestern Ontario in that way. We are very pleased to have reached this point."
Students who enrolled in the program at the Rainy River district campus say the program has already helped them land jobs locally.
Both Lakehead University and Confederation College plan to evaluate the program with the hope of offering it again in 2010.
Convocation Ceremonies Held in Fort Frances
It was a night of celebrations and recognition for the 2009 graduating class of Confederation College's Rainy River district campus.
Diplomas and certificates were awarded to nearly 50 students at Convocation ceremonies held at the Townsend Theatre
The college's Vice-President of Academic and Student Services Judi Maundrell offered congratulations to the students.
"Best wish for you as you leave the college, ready and able, to make a difference in your life and the life in other," said Maundrell. "Please ensure that you are of service to others anyway you can in your journey of life. We are proud to welcome you into the world of successful Confederation College alumni."
Bill Trochimchuck of the college's board of governors told the students it was a night to honour their success.
"The real intrigue and intoxication of personal success is the opportunity for you to write your own ending," said Trochimchuk. "Your academic achievement we celebrate today will help you do just that. Your Confederation College education is an investment in your personal success. You leave here today with the tools and the wisdom to achieve personal success."
Among the award winners was Melissa Wood of Fort Frances who earned the student leadership graduate award for her work as the campus' student president.
Diplomas and certificates were awarded to nearly 50 students at Convocation ceremonies held at the Townsend Theatre
The college's Vice-President of Academic and Student Services Judi Maundrell offered congratulations to the students.
"Best wish for you as you leave the college, ready and able, to make a difference in your life and the life in other," said Maundrell. "Please ensure that you are of service to others anyway you can in your journey of life. We are proud to welcome you into the world of successful Confederation College alumni."
Bill Trochimchuck of the college's board of governors told the students it was a night to honour their success.
"The real intrigue and intoxication of personal success is the opportunity for you to write your own ending," said Trochimchuk. "Your academic achievement we celebrate today will help you do just that. Your Confederation College education is an investment in your personal success. You leave here today with the tools and the wisdom to achieve personal success."
Among the award winners was Melissa Wood of Fort Frances who earned the student leadership graduate award for her work as the campus' student president.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Local College Student Graduate
It's graduation day for students at Confederation College's Fort Frances campus.
About 50 students will receive diplomas, including the very first group of graduates who will receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Convocation ceremonies take place at the Townsend Theatre beginning at 5:00 p.m.
About 50 students will receive diplomas, including the very first group of graduates who will receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Convocation ceremonies take place at the Townsend Theatre beginning at 5:00 p.m.
Aboriginal Mining Programs Expanded
Confederation College is receiving funding to help Aboriginal students in northern Ontario benefit from mineral exploration training programs.
Confederation College will get $250 thousand dollars to deliver additional training courses.
The funding will make possible courses in prospecting and staking, geophysical operations and diamond drilling.
Since 2006, Confederation College's basic line cutting course has produced 104 graduates from 12 First Nations in northwestern Ontario.
Confederation College will get $250 thousand dollars to deliver additional training courses.
The funding will make possible courses in prospecting and staking, geophysical operations and diamond drilling.
Since 2006, Confederation College's basic line cutting course has produced 104 graduates from 12 First Nations in northwestern Ontario.
DayCare Changes Likely Delayed
Premier Dalton McGuinty admits it will take longer than planned to implement so-called full-day learning for four-andfive-year-olds in Ontario.
McGuinty says the government has allocated $500 million over two years to start phasing in optional all-day junior kindergarten in2010.
The premier admits the plan likely won't be fully implemented in three years as recommended because of the faltering economy, and says he doesn't know how much it will cost.
When pressed, McGuinty said he didn't know the total cost, but admitted it would be `a lot of money.'
McGuinty also says teachers will have to work alongside early childhood education specialists, an idea teachers' unions have balked at in the past.
Charles Pascal, the government's early learning advisor,recommends that full-day learning programs for pre-schoolers start in lower-income neighbourhoods.
McGuinty says the government has allocated $500 million over two years to start phasing in optional all-day junior kindergarten in2010.
The premier admits the plan likely won't be fully implemented in three years as recommended because of the faltering economy, and says he doesn't know how much it will cost.
When pressed, McGuinty said he didn't know the total cost, but admitted it would be `a lot of money.'
McGuinty also says teachers will have to work alongside early childhood education specialists, an idea teachers' unions have balked at in the past.
Charles Pascal, the government's early learning advisor,recommends that full-day learning programs for pre-schoolers start in lower-income neighbourhoods.
More Help Sent to BC
The Ministry of Natural Resources is getting ready to ship out even more fire fighters out to battle wild fires in British Columbia.
A total of 114 fire rangers are scheduled to leave from Dryden and Sudbury today to join 64 fire fighters who left last week.
Fire ranger crews will be heading to Prince George for a two week stint.
A total of 114 fire rangers are scheduled to leave from Dryden and Sudbury today to join 64 fire fighters who left last week.
Fire ranger crews will be heading to Prince George for a two week stint.
Dryden Mill Shutdown Extended
Workers at Domtar's mill in Dryden are getting more unpaid time off than they first expected.
The company has pushed back the re-opening of the mill.
The facility was shut down because of declining customer demand.
The closure has been extended another three weeks, meaning the mill will open around July 24.
The company has pushed back the re-opening of the mill.
The facility was shut down because of declining customer demand.
The closure has been extended another three weeks, meaning the mill will open around July 24.
Federal Forestry Strategy in the Works
The Conservative Government appears to be working on a billion dollar strategy aimed at helping the forest industry.
The strategy is to offset the $6 billion dollar subsidy given to U.S. pulp and paper mills for burning black liquor.
Kenora MP Greg Rickford says his Government is looking at a similar plan.
"Our government's challenge moving forward is to reward companies for using renewable resources," says Rickford.
Rickford says the American plan to burn black liquor is flawed because it rewards companies that burn fossil fuels.
But the N-D-P's forestry critic doesn't believe the government's proposal will go far enough.
In the house of commons Monday, Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty said the proposed billion dollar plan won't allow Canadian mills to compete against the stronger initiatives offered in the U.S.
"Half measures by the government will not save the forestry industry," said Rafferty. "Last week's billion dollar black liquor aid package is a start, but it will not level the playing field against U.S. competitors. The American subsidy is much larger, and it will still provide an unfair advantage to American mills."
"The Conservative plan will do little to help the million people who rely on the forestry sector for work. When will the government start seeing the forest for the trees and help the forestry industry emerge from this downturn more profitable and stronger than ever?"
Rafferty says at the very least, the Federal Government should match the American subsidy and make it retroactive from 2008.
The strategy is to offset the $6 billion dollar subsidy given to U.S. pulp and paper mills for burning black liquor.
Kenora MP Greg Rickford says his Government is looking at a similar plan.
"Our government's challenge moving forward is to reward companies for using renewable resources," says Rickford.
Rickford says the American plan to burn black liquor is flawed because it rewards companies that burn fossil fuels.
But the N-D-P's forestry critic doesn't believe the government's proposal will go far enough.
In the house of commons Monday, Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty said the proposed billion dollar plan won't allow Canadian mills to compete against the stronger initiatives offered in the U.S.
"Half measures by the government will not save the forestry industry," said Rafferty. "Last week's billion dollar black liquor aid package is a start, but it will not level the playing field against U.S. competitors. The American subsidy is much larger, and it will still provide an unfair advantage to American mills."
"The Conservative plan will do little to help the million people who rely on the forestry sector for work. When will the government start seeing the forest for the trees and help the forestry industry emerge from this downturn more profitable and stronger than ever?"
Rafferty says at the very least, the Federal Government should match the American subsidy and make it retroactive from 2008.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Music Teacher Recognized
Fort Frances High School Music teacher John Dutton directed the school band at the Townsend Theatre for his last time last week.
With it came the news that the school's Arts Wing would be renamed in his honour. The Rainy River District School Board agreed to the renaming by acting on a request from several members of the school band.
Dutton who retires at the end of this month was overwhelmed.
"I didn't think you got an honour like that if you were still among of the living," says Dutton. "I told people at the concert I was happy for the honour and happy to be alive to receive it. But I was a little overwhelmed by it because it's an amazing thing. I'm just here doing my job."
Dutton will do his job one last time when he directs the band a final time at the school's graduation ceremonies.
With it came the news that the school's Arts Wing would be renamed in his honour. The Rainy River District School Board agreed to the renaming by acting on a request from several members of the school band.
Dutton who retires at the end of this month was overwhelmed.
"I didn't think you got an honour like that if you were still among of the living," says Dutton. "I told people at the concert I was happy for the honour and happy to be alive to receive it. But I was a little overwhelmed by it because it's an amazing thing. I'm just here doing my job."
Dutton will do his job one last time when he directs the band a final time at the school's graduation ceremonies.
Lowey's Produce Honoured
An area greenhouse has been honoured by the province.
Lowey's Produce was one of five regional winners of the Premier's Agri-Food Innovation Excellence Awards.
Owner Blair Lowey says they were recognized for their efforts to become more energy efficient which included the installation of a biomass boiler.
"Putting in a biomass boiler helps because we don't use natural gas," says Lowey. "Our electrical energy consumption has been substantially reduced so in both of those we're being recognized for that."
The measures have helped Lowey's reduce its energy costs by almost 40 per cent.
Lowey's Produce was one of five regional winners of the Premier's Agri-Food Innovation Excellence Awards.
Owner Blair Lowey says they were recognized for their efforts to become more energy efficient which included the installation of a biomass boiler.
"Putting in a biomass boiler helps because we don't use natural gas," says Lowey. "Our electrical energy consumption has been substantially reduced so in both of those we're being recognized for that."
The measures have helped Lowey's reduce its energy costs by almost 40 per cent.
DayCare Changes Proposed
The author of a long-anticipated report into education in Ontario says sweeping changes that would combine daycare and kindergarten into a single full-day program will mean greater success for children.
Charles Pascal says these changes will also provide a boost to the well-being of student's families.
Premier Dalton McGuinty gave Pascal, a former deputy minister of education, a two-year appointment to advise the province on how to implement full-day kindergarten.
The report recommends that parents be able to leave children aged four and five at school from 7:30 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Parents, however, would still have a choice about whether their kids would be enrolled for a full or half-day of kindergarten.
The report says children who attend full-day programs before Grade 1 fare better academically and have better social skills.
Charles Pascal says these changes will also provide a boost to the well-being of student's families.
Premier Dalton McGuinty gave Pascal, a former deputy minister of education, a two-year appointment to advise the province on how to implement full-day kindergarten.
The report recommends that parents be able to leave children aged four and five at school from 7:30 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Parents, however, would still have a choice about whether their kids would be enrolled for a full or half-day of kindergarten.
The report says children who attend full-day programs before Grade 1 fare better academically and have better social skills.
First Nations hit by N1H1
The H-1-N-1 flu has hit First Nations communities in northwestern Ontario, with more than 100 sick on the Sandy Lake reserve.
Nurses and a doctor are distributing the antiviral drug Tamiflu to the sick.
Authorities have asked people from Sandy Lake to not travel to other First Nations communities in the region to keep the virus from spreading.
Nurses and a doctor are distributing the antiviral drug Tamiflu to the sick.
Authorities have asked people from Sandy Lake to not travel to other First Nations communities in the region to keep the virus from spreading.
No Changes to Hospitals' H1N1 Measures
Despite a rise in the pandemic alert over the H-1-N-1 Flu virus, Riverside Health Care Facilities says it has no plans to increase its precautionary measures.
Riverside is still recommending people experiencing any flu-like symptoms not to visit the hospitals or Rainycrest.
Self-screening and hand washing procedures also remain in effect.
Riverside is still recommending people experiencing any flu-like symptoms not to visit the hospitals or Rainycrest.
Self-screening and hand washing procedures also remain in effect.
Emergency Ramp Entrance Changed
Road construction around LaVerendrye Hospital will impact access to the emergency department ramp from Victoria Avenue this week.
Effective tomorrow, the emergency ramp at La Verendrye will only be accessible from Sinclair Street off of Armit Avenue.
Effective tomorrow, the emergency ramp at La Verendrye will only be accessible from Sinclair Street off of Armit Avenue.
Infrastructure Funding for Area Communities
The townships of Dawson and LaVallee each benefited from three infrastructure announcements Friday.
Dawson township will use more than $95 thousand dollars on an addition to its fire hall in Pinewood, $66 thousand to upgrade River Road and about $58 thousand to improve Atwood Road 2.
LaVallee received $64 thousand dollars to rehabilitate Cain Road, $28 thousand for work on Pyne Road and $24 thousand for a retrofit of the Emo-LaVallee Community Centre.
Rainy River received $280 thousand to refurbish its municipal garage and fire hall and another $30 thousand for upgrades to its municipal office.
$83 thousand will go to Emo to rebuild Fisher Road.
The township of Alberton will get $125 thousand for its fire hall while the township of Morley received $54 thousand for improvement to its Community Centre complex.
Dawson township will use more than $95 thousand dollars on an addition to its fire hall in Pinewood, $66 thousand to upgrade River Road and about $58 thousand to improve Atwood Road 2.
LaVallee received $64 thousand dollars to rehabilitate Cain Road, $28 thousand for work on Pyne Road and $24 thousand for a retrofit of the Emo-LaVallee Community Centre.
Rainy River received $280 thousand to refurbish its municipal garage and fire hall and another $30 thousand for upgrades to its municipal office.
$83 thousand will go to Emo to rebuild Fisher Road.
The township of Alberton will get $125 thousand for its fire hall while the township of Morley received $54 thousand for improvement to its Community Centre complex.
More Library Funding Approved
Another one-point-nine million dollars in government funding is heading toward the new library and technology centre in Fort Frances.
The joint federal-provincial money was part of infrastructure funding announced to a host of Rainy River district communities late Friday.
Library Board Chair Joyce Cunningham says it should help solidify the project's construction this year.
"I'm very much appreciative of all of these levels of government," says Cunningham. "I'm very much appreciative of all that has been done in order to get us this far. I'm very confident that we will be moving ahead very, very quickly."
Town councillors must still approve a construction contract. They had rejected a contract in April over concerns with the amount of money the town would have to provide. With the new money, the town's contribution is believed to be significantly reduced.
The joint federal-provincial money was part of infrastructure funding announced to a host of Rainy River district communities late Friday.
Library Board Chair Joyce Cunningham says it should help solidify the project's construction this year.
"I'm very much appreciative of all of these levels of government," says Cunningham. "I'm very much appreciative of all that has been done in order to get us this far. I'm very confident that we will be moving ahead very, very quickly."
Town councillors must still approve a construction contract. They had rejected a contract in April over concerns with the amount of money the town would have to provide. With the new money, the town's contribution is believed to be significantly reduced.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Grade 10 Literacy Test Results
2009-06-12
12:27:59
Grade 10 students with the Rainy River District School Board have scored high in recent provincial testing for literacy.
84 per cent of students who wrote the reading and writing tests in April met the provincial standards.
The board's student success leader Casey Slack says the board is pleased with the results.
"We're comparing quite favourably with the surrounding boards," says Slack, "but at the provincial level we're matching those who were successful, particularity the first time eligible."
"We do have a comprehensive board literacy plan. Teachers have a direct role in creating that plan, and the board continues to support that in a variety of ways through resources or professional development."
The board's score was just a percentage off the provincial average, but hirer than most other boards in northwestern Ontario
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Fort High Students Honoured
2009-06-10
11:30:23
Sixty students who reached the honour roll at least seven times where among those receiving awards at Fort Frances High School's recognition ceremony Tuesday
Fort Frances high school students who excelled in the areas of music, athletics and academia were recognized yesterday.
More than two hundred students received awards for reach the honour roll multiple times.
Principal Gord McCabe says it's a reflection of the students' commitment to education.
"You always want to see students doing even better," says McCabe, "but when I watched those numbers of students walk across the stage, because its not just being on the honour roll one time, its having been on the honour roll multiple times, it tells me they are really working hard because they're acheiving in a variety of different disciplines to do that."
Co-presidents of the school's student council Dianelle Gustafson and Alex Crichton were this year's recipients of the principal's award for student leadership.
Most Valuable Certificates were award to the following students
Athletic Association - Adam Esselink
Newspaper - Sarah Kellar
Yearbook - Sarah Pryce
First Responders - Micha Gerber
O.S.A.I.D - Dawn Derendorf
Chem-Free Grad - Eric Gustafson
Drama - Cody Caul
Musical - Sam Mueller
Musical Revue - Micha Gerber and Owen Harrison
Music - Christina Empy
Cyclist Travels Throught Rainy River District
2009-06-10
11:19:31
A close friend diagnosed with Cancer has let an Ontario man on a coast-to-coast cycle ride to raise money for Cancer research.
Glen Baxby cycled through the Fort Frances area yesterday.
"We started off at the Pacific Ocean, Victoria, British Columbia, on May 15," says Baxby. "and we're going to dip the bike in the Atlantic on the 14th of July."
"This started at the end of November when I heard of a friend who had been recently diagnosis with cancer. It was a matter of coming to a decision (to do the ride) and getting the proper training and guidance in terms of fitness and nutrition, and putting a committee together to get the logistics of the ride put together."
So far, Baxby has raised just over $25,000. Those wanting to make a donation can go the his Coast to Coast to Cure website.
New Provincial Chief Selected
2009-06-10
11:16:24
Chiefs and representatives from 42 First Nations across Ontario have selected a new chief for the Union of Ontario Indians.
Patrick Madahbee from the Sudbury area is the new provincial chief.
He replaces John Beaucage, who is running for national chief of the Assembly of First Nations, the largest aboriginal group in Canada.
Fantino Appointment Extended
2009-06-10
11:15:00
OPP Commissioner Julian Fantino
Julian Fantino has been re-appointed as Ontario's top cop for one more year.
Premier Dalton McGuinty says Fantino will remain the head of the Ontario Provincial Police until the end of July 2010.
Fantino, whose tenure at the OPP has at times been marred by controversy, has been at the helm of the unit since 2006.
Visitor Restrictions Imposed at Kenora Hospital
2009-06-10
11:04:37
Lake of the Woods Hospital in Kenora has restricted visits to the facility due to an respiratory illness spreading through the northwestern Ontario city
Lake of the Woods District Hospital in Kenora is prohibiting visitors following an outbreak of a
respiratory illness in the community.
The hospital's head of patient care Leslie Brown says the hospital felt it necessary to impose the restrictions to limit reduce the risk of patients coming down with the illness.
Birchwood Terrace Nursing Home, also in Kenora, also closed its doors to visitors for similar reasons.
Health Care Wait Times
2009-06-10
11:00:21
The Ontario Health Quality Council says the majority of Ontario cancer patients who need urgent surgery within two weeks are waiting twice that time for their operation.
Council chair Lyn McLeod says some health care wait times have been reduced over the past few years, but not all.
"Thanks to Ontario's Wait Time Strategy, waits have been greatly shortened for cataract surgeries, hip and knee replacements, and some cardiac procedures," says McLeod. "But when half of cancer patients who need urgent surgery have to wait longer than is medically acceptable, when waits for MRI scans are three to four times longer than the target, and when waits for nursing home spaces have doubled in just two years, it's pretty clear that everyone involved in delivering healthcare has to take action."
McLeod adds it's very important that the controversy surrounding the management of eHealth Ontario doesn't push back the province's 2015 date for implementing electronic health records.
Condo Agreement Extended
2009-06-10
10:58:14
The developer of a proposed condominum project in Fort Frances has received more time to find potential buyers for the Nelson Street project.
Fort Frances town councillors agreed to extend the deadline of a purchase agreement with Robert Zanette to July 1st.
Zanette is hoping to have at least twenty of the twenty-three units available sold before beginning construction.
No News Yet on Infrastructure Funding
2009-06-10
08:44:40
While communities in the Rainy River district wait for news on their infrastructure funding, so does the area's MP.
John Rafferty says he's been trying to determine what programs will receive funding from the federal and provincial programs governments. Several communities elsewhere in northwestern Ontario have already received funding commitments.
Rafferty suspects the lack of an announcement for the Rainy River district is just another game of politics.
"I think they're always playing politics," says Rafferty. "I spoke to a high-ranking Conservative a couple of days ago and I mentioned at least as a courtesy, so were ready when the media calls, we should get a little advance notice when the spending announcements are coming. The reply was 'we don't have to tell you a thing'."
Neither Rafferty or fellow NDP member Bruce Hyer were invited to last Friday's announcements meant for Thunder Bay and area municipalities in their ridings.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Buy Ontario Policy Promoted in Fort Frances
2009-06-09
09:20:37
Regional and local labour representatives join with Ontario Federation of Labour President Wayne Samuelson (centre) and Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty to celebrate the Federation's Drive to Work Caravan in Fort Frances
The Ontario Federation of Labour rolled its Drive to Work Caravan into Fort Frances last night with a call for a Buy Ontario policy.
The Caravan is crossing northwestern Ontario to draw attention to a need to protect jobs across the province.
Speaking to town council, president Wayne Samuelson says the policy is not about protectionism.
"In the United States and Europe, they've figured this out," says Samuelson, " especially when your talking about taxpayers money invested to help us through these tough times. Let's do everything we can do to make sure those jobs are in our community at least in our province or in our country."
Mayor Roy Avis says the OFL policy will be reviewed by the town's administration and finance committee before coming to council for a decision.
Fort Frances Budget Passes
2009-06-09
09:11:07
The town of Fort Frances has passed its 2009 budget.
It includes a 1.1 per cent tax increase for residential ratepayers which is about $20 extra on a house assessed at 100-thousand dollars.
Council Rick Wiedenhoeft says its a good budget in tough economic times.
"When we're facing an overall 3 per cent increase in inflation, a 3 per cent increase in salary and benefits across the corporation, and to maintain the services that we do and still come in with at a 1.1 per cent tax increase in my opinion in phenomenal," says Wiedenhoeft.
Mayor Roy Avis called the budget affordable.
No Money for Scott Street Yet
2009-06-09
09:07:02
The town of Fort Frances still waits for funding to start work on Scott Street.
The town was hoping to begin work on the road between Colonization Road East and Reid Avenue this summer.
But Mayor Roy Avis says requests for provincial money have yet been approved.
"We have made contacts with every level of provincial government," says Avis, "right from the office in Thunder Bay right to the top. We're so of in a holding pattern until we get our funding."
CAO Mark McCaig says it would be nice to know soon if they're getting that money so they can begin work.
"We got to stop work at the end of October," says McCaig. "Maybe in the GTA they can work until the end of December. We can't do that here. If we're part of a cluster group for approval with northwestern Ontario municipalities, we should be getting these approvals a little earlier than we have been."
The town issued a tentative contract for the work in March.
Road Work Continues
2009-06-09
09:01:01
Progress continues to be made at the only road project taking place in Fort Frances.
Operations and Facilities Manager Doug Brown says crews were slightly ahead of schedule on work at Nelson Street and Victoria Avenue as of last week.
Meantime, no word yet as to when work on the Portage Avenue underpass will begin.
CAO Mark McCaig says CN Rail officials are still reviewing the results of soil anchor tests and plan to discuss them with the town in the near future.
Landmark Relocation Begins
2009-06-09
08:57:54
Work has started on the relocation of the tugboat Hallet and former fire tower to the Fort Frances waterfront.
The dismantling of the tower began yesterday with fencing placed around the areas where the Pither's Point Park landmarks will go.
The work by Tom Jones and Sons is expected to be complete by the end of the year.
Lock it or Lose it!
2009-06-09
08:42:14
Ontario Provincial Police say too many people in the Fort Frances area not locking their vehicles.
Recent patrols found more than 60 per cent of the naerly 200 vehicles checked with the doors unlocked.
Constable Anne McCoy says eight still had their keys inside.
"We need people to do their part in their locking things up," says McCoy. "We can do investigations to try and solve break and enters, but we need people to help us in trying to prevent the crimes."
McCoy says they'll be promoting the importance of keeping vehicle doors locked through their youth policing initiative this summer.
Charges Laid in Youth Centre Assault
2009-06-09
08:41:03
Two youth have been charged in connection with an assault that has left a new native youth in Fort Frances centre empty.
Provincial police say a 15-year-old male and an 18-year-old male were part of five youths who assaulted two workers at the Ge-Da-Gi-Binez Youth Centre last Wednesday night.
Neither worker was seriously hurt.
The altercation resulted in all six youth detained at the secure custody facility being transported to a facility in Thunder Bay.
A spokesperson with the Ministry of Children and Youth Services says the ministry and centre staff are currently reviewing the incident with the intent of bringing the youth back the Fort Frances facility sometime soon.
The centre opened at the end of March.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Native Youth Centre Empty
2009-06-08
12:39:22
Officials with the Ge-Da-Gi-Binez Youth Centre in Fort Frances and the Ministry of Children and Youth Services are reviewing an incident that led to five youths assaulting two staff members.
A Ministry spokesperson says it happened Wednesday evening in the recreation yard.
One of the staff members required medical attention.
OPP were called to have the youth involved placed in their rooms before a decision was made to transport them and another youth who was not part of the altercation to Thunder Bay leaving the centre empty.
Ministry spokesperson Anne Smith says centre staff and Ministry personnel are currently meeting to discuss a possible return of the youth back to the Fort Frances centre in the near future.
The centre opened at the end of March.
Employment Opportunities for Youth
2009-06-08
12:35:53
The Ontario Provincial Police in Fort Frances have put out a call for young people interested in working with them this summer.
The Fort Frances detachment plans to hire three students for its marine and bicycle patrols.
Constable Anne McCoy says it's an great opportunity for young people interested in policing.
"They get a lot of real great hands on experience going out onto the boat," says McCoy, "learning about different vessel enforcement. Out on the bike patrol, learning how to do community policing initiatives and curbing certain areas of crime. It's very interesting work and a great experience."
Students between the age of 15 and 24 can apply for the marine program while those 14 to 17 are eligible for the bike patrols.
Resumes must be at the detachment by Wednesday.
New Forest Fire in Fort France district
2009-06-08
12:35:08
An unattended campfire has been listed as the cause of the latest forest fire in the Fort Frances district.
The fire occurred Saturday evening, and blackened about 0.1 hectare of land before it was extinguished.
The fire hazard is low in most parts of northwestern Ontario except the Fort Frances and Dryden Districts which are reporting a moderate hazard.
No Infrastructure Money Yet
2009-06-08
12:33:41
Still no word if infrastructure projects in the Rainy River district have been approved.
On the weekend, both the federal and provincial governments announced more than $3.4 billion in joint funding for nearly 14-hundred projects. The Cities of Kenora and Dryden, along with the towns of Ear Falls, Sioux Lookout and Atikokan were among those to receive money.
However, government officials have yet to say if any money is flowing elsewhere in the Rainy River district.
Town Council Meeting Tonight
2009-06-08
12:31:51
Fort Frances residents get their opportunity tonight to comment on the town's budget.
A public meeting will be held as part of tonight's council meeting. The town is calling for a 1.1 per cent hike in residential tax rates. It also plans to spend about $9.9 million in operating and about $15 million on the capital side. Just over a million of that would be funded through long-term debt over ten years.
Also tonight, Fort Frances town councillors will get an update on the progress of several work projects in the town. Council is also expected to formalize a contract with Bay City Contractors which is currently doing the road work on Victoria Avenue and Nelson Street, and later a section of Portage Avenue.
The public portion of tonight's meeting begins at about 6:00 p.m.
Drive to Work Caravan In Northwestern Ontario
2009-06-08
12:29:44
The Ontario Federation of Labour will roll its "Drive to Work" Caravan into Fort Frances later this evening.
The caravan is intended to draw attention to the need to sustain jobs across the province.
President Wayne Samuelson says they want to give people affected by the economic downturn a voice.
"My sense in travelling across Ontario is that people what to have their say," says Samuelson. "They want to be able to tell their government that they can let all of this roll on by. There needs to be clear action in how to deal with all of this."
The group will hold a BBQ at Pither's Point Park at 5 PM before heading to the Civic Centre where Samuelson will address Fort Frances town council.
Friday, June 5, 2009
H1N1 Flu Numbers Increase
2009-06-05
12:48:25
The Northwestern Health Unit has confirmed two new cases of the H-1-N-1 virus in this region.
That brings the number to three of confirmed cases in this region.
Medical officer of health, Dr. Jim Arthurs says they still don't know how the virus made it into northwestern Ontario.
"What we do know is that there has not travel to Mexico," says James, "but we've had several weeks of person to person spread within Ontario and obviously across Canada. That's not concerning. The puzzle is where is come from into the Northwestern Health Unit area and we don't know that yet."
Arthurs says all three people who came down with the virus have since recovered, and their symptoms were considered mild.
Gas Prices to Rise
2009-06-05
12:46:47
Watch for another rise in the price of gasoline soon.
After jumping almost $2.70 yesterday, the price of oil is up 15-cents this morning.
Oil is trading at just under 69 dollars U-S a barrel.
GasBuddy.com says the average price of regular gasoline across Canada is a $1.02 a litre -- up 1.7 cents in the past week.
In the Rainy River district, a litre of gas was selling at the pumps for about a dollar.
South of the border, the average price of regular is $2.57 US per American gallon which converts to about 74 cents a litre in Canadian money.
Ombudsman Investigation
2009-06-05
12:46:12
A probe by the ombudsman is underway into Ontario's limited funding of a drug for colon cancer patients.
Andre Marin says he's reviewing the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care's policies for Avastin.
Under current rules, the funding is limited to 16 two-week cycles, regardless of how a patient responds to treatment.
Camp Day Success
2009-06-05
12:44:52
Wednesday's Camp Day at Tim Horton's proved to be a huge success.
More than five-thousand dollars was raised through coffee sales and other activities held at the Fort Frances store.
It included $810 raised by baker Jessie Carmody who had his head shaved.
The money raised will help send two local youngsters to one of the Tim Horton's camps this summer.
Reserve Recruiting
2009-06-05
12:40:56
The Kenora Army Reserve is looking for new recruits.
Bombardier Lynne Danielson, a recruitment officer with the reserve, says it's a great part time job for students.
"It's not mandatory for us to deploy reserves overseas in times of combat," says Danielson, "It's for people 16 years and over, fifteen high school credit. In the summer they go away for training. When they are members of the unit for a year, and they return to post secondary education, we will contribute $2,000 toward their tuition."
Danielson says the military offers solid employment, and is a good fit for those who have been laid off from forestry related jobs.
Infrastructure Funding Announced
2009-06-05
12:38:06
Atikokan is getting money, but we can't tell you if others in the Rainy River district have benefit from today's roll-out of infrastructure money.
Atikokan will receive more than two-million dollars in provincial and federal dollars for repairs to its Main Street and its municipal office.
The township must still contribute a million dollars toward the projects.
Meantime, a government spokesperson with federal Infrastructure Minister John Baird says announcements pertaining to our area would be made through the local MP and MPP offices.
However John Rafferty's office says its still trying to learn find more details themselves.
Vet Office Closed
2009-06-05
12:32:11
An area veterinary office has been shutdown.
Court officers seized equipment and boarded up the office Rainy Lake Veterinary Services in Crozier Wednesday.
Doctor Richard Herbert says it stemmed from a financial matter with a bank while operating a previous clinic elsewhere in Hearst.
"They called they loan," says Herbert."We went through process, but I did not know we were at that point in the process. I thought we had room to negotiate, and there was none. So, it was complete and total shock when they showed up at my door saying 'that's it, it's over, your out right now."
Herbert says he spent much of the day trying to contact his customers so they could make alternative arrangements for their animals.
Herbert says customers who have not acquired records yet can still do so by calling 275-6474 and supplying both their and the animal's name.
Hebert calls the situation regrettable, but thanked the region for their ongoing support.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Prescription Drug Abuse Problems
2009-06-04
08:59:52
Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service says its doing everything it can to control the problem of prescription drugs.
But Sergeant Bob Baxter says the aboriginal police service could use more resources.
He says abuse of prescription drugs is a problem in most northern communities.
Baxter also says it is not just a police problem but one for the entire community.
Underserviced Area Program Reviewed
2009-06-04
08:59:05
Ontario is looking at a new way of attracting physicians to northern and rural communities.
The province will hold a series of consultation meetings on a plan to renew and improve physician recruitment and retention components of the province’s Underserviced Area Program.
As part of the changes, the government is proposing that all communities in Ontario, with the exceptions of Ottawa and the GTA, be able to recruit physicians with Return of Service commitments.
Miss Fun in the Sun Returns
2009-06-04
08:44:36
The "Miss Fun in the Sun" pageant is coming back.
After a year's absence, organizers are currently seeking contestants to participate.
Jackie Lampi Hughes says there will be some changes to the event.
"I find there's a huge time commitment for it," says Lampi-Hughes, "so we've tried to cut down on some of the events. So they will have four events they will be actually judged on. One is an interview. One is a fitness competition. One is entertainment night and the other being the parade."
"With the parade, instead of every girl doing their own float, we're going to put them in groups, so there could be two or three girls per float."
Lampi-Hughes says they are hoping to attract at least a dozen contestants by next week.
Legal Clinic Merger Official
Trudy McCormick, Executive Director of the Northwest Community Legal Clinic, opens Fort Frances office with Bob Ward, CEO of Legal Aid Ontario looking on
2009-06-04
07:55:35
The amalgamation of legal clinics in the Kenora and Rainy River district was made official during a ceremony in Fort Frances yesterday.
The Northwest Community Legal Clinic came in effect April first.
Executive Director Trudy McCormick says the merger will mean better service to clients.
"The case load is larger, but that's part of the idea of what we're doing," says McCormick. "was try and shift things around so there are more case workers available to deal with the caseloads. Rather than having two managers, an executive director in Kenora and one here, we have one manager and more available time for case work."
Along with the office in Fort Frances, there are offices in Atikokan and Kenora while staff will make monthly visits to assist clients in Red Lake and Ear Falls.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Scott Street Closure Clarified
2009-06-03
12:36:09
The town of Fort Frances has clarified closure plans of Scott Street this summer.
Operations and Facilities Manager Doug Brown says when crews begin that work on Portage Avenue, the intersection of Portage and Scott will be blocked to traffic for a one-week period.
The town clarified the closure during a recent meeting with members of the Fort Frances Business Improvement Association.
Brown says when that closure takes place is still dependant upon work around Victoria Avenue and Nelson Street.
But he says it could be at the end of July or early August. The town also intends to give the BIA a one-weeks notice before the closure occurs.
Robert Moore School Contract
2009-06-03
12:35:01
A contract has been issued for the building of the new Robert Moore School.
Manshield Construction's bid of $11,830,000 thousand dollars was the second lowest of five received.
Education Director for the Rainy River District School Board Jack McMaster says that bid was selected after a lower one from Monteith Building Group was withdrawn.
McMaster says they'll be meeting with the Thunder Bay contractor soon to outline a work schedule.
RIDE Program Nets Buds
2009-06-03
12:34:04
A Fort Frances man faces a drug charge after provincial police found a quantity of marijuana in a truck during a RIDE program check last week.
The seven pounds of marijuana is estimated at over $21 thousand.
The 18-year-old man will appear in court at the end of June on a charge of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking.
Catholic Boards Amalgamated
2009-06-03
12:33:12
The board responsible for most catholic schools in the Kenora and Rainy River district is getting larger.
An amalgamation plan by the provincial government will see the Northwest District Catholic School Board take over schools now under the control of the Atikokan Catholic District School Board.
The change is effective this September.
Board Volunteers and Bus Drive Honoured
2009-06-03
12:32:29
Three volunteers and a long-serving bus driver were honoured by the Rainy River District School Board last night.
Gary Parker at North Star School in Atikokan, Paul Noonan at Fort Frances High School and Shawna Lee Carlson at Robert Moore School were named volunteers of the years.
Sonny Ferris, a bus driver with the board for the past 45 years, was named driver of the year.
Energy Efficiency Project Money
2009-06-03
12:31:29
Nearly $1.5 million in energy efficiency improvements will be made to the district's public schools over the next two years.
The funding to the Rainy River District School Board is part of a $600 million dollar fund the province is doling out to school boards.
The board is now identifying areas where the money will be used.
Board Budget Approved
2009-06-03
08:53:41
A balanced budget for the Rainy River District School Board.
Trustees approved at their meeting last night, the budget which includes expenditures and revenues equalling almost 43-million dollars.
Superintendent of Business Laura Mills says balancing the budget was made despite changes in provincial funding.
"The benchmarks for text books was reduced by 15 per cent," says Mills, "and they are calling that a permanent decrease. Classroom computers, they're calling for a reduction of 25 per cent this next and a further 25 per cent the year after."
Provincial money for staff development and transportation was also reduced.
The budget, though, does show a $3.6 million dollars increase in revenue.
"Even though this looks like a really big number this year, it's not really indicative of what was happen. Last year when we were doing budget at this time, we did not have Mine Centre. So we did not have revenue for eight students. We did not have the expenditures for those eighty students."
Mills says the increase in revenue also reflects new labour agreements.
Forestry Protests
2009-06-03
08:48:57
Forestry workers in Dryden blocked the Trans-Canada Highway yesterday to highlight concerns about their battered industry.
About three dozen demonstrators stopped cars on the highway, which runs through Dryden, for about 20 minutes over the lunch hour.
The workers want federal support, saying Prime Minister Stephen Harper has done nothing for the forestry sector while offering billions of tax dollars to help the auto industry.
The demonstration in Dryden comes as thousands of forestry workers marched through the streets of Ottawa, sharing the same concerns as the protesters in northwestern Ontario.
In the Commons, N-D-P Leader Jack Layton offered some solutions to the industry's problems to the prime minister.
"What we need is some loan guarantees, said Layton. "What we need is a strategy to create markets in this sector. What we need is some fair trade for a change. What we need is to stop raw logs from going across the border and creating jobs down in the United States. When will we see some real action from the government?"
Prime Minister Harper responded by criticizing the New Democrats for voting against past measures to help the forestry industry.
"Everybody knows that the difficulties in the forestry industry are due to the dramatic decline in demand we have seen in the American market. Yet, when the government brought in the softwood lumber agreement that gave us access to that market and $4.5 billion back from the litigation, the NDP voted against it. When we brought in measures to help workers and communities affected by layoffs in the forestry sector, the NDP voted against those. When we brought in measures to increase financing for EDC and BDC to help this sector, the NDP voted against them."
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Book Drive Announced
2009-06-02
07:51:01
Ontario's Lieutenant Governor is launching an aboriginal summer reading book drive today.
David Onley will be joined by Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Stan Beardy for the announcement this afternoon.
The drive collects books for remote First Nation communities and runs until June 21.
Brand new books for children up to age 14 can be dropped off at OPP detachments across the province.
Youth Jobs Centre Open
2009-06-02
07:45:22
Young people looking for a job this summer can now visit the youth employment centre in Fort Frances.
The Service Canada Centre for Youth is located at 301 Scott Street.
Youth services officer Dayna DeBenedet says there are a few jobs already posted.
"We've also started to contact a lot of businesses and camps," says DeBenedet. "So jobs are starting to pick up in the northwestern region. We're just hoping that throughout this next week, it's our Hire-a-Youth week nationally, a lot more job posts will come as businesses become more aware of our services."
Debenendt says staff will also be visiting area businesses this week with potted plants as part of their "Hire-a-Youth - Help the Economy Grow" campaign.
Boating Accident in Lake of the Woods
2009-06-02
07:44:42
A 21-year-old Winnipeg man has been charged following a boating accident on Lake of the Woods on the weekend.
OPP say two of four people on board were treated for minor injuries after the boat they were riding was destroyed when it struck a reef.
The operator was charged with operating a vessel in a careless manner.
New Border Rules Working Well
2009-06-02
07:41:03
The United States Deputy Consul General does not anticipate any problems with the implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.
Mark Bysfield was in Fort Frances yesterday discuss with Fort Frances town council the new travel rules, and other border issues.
Bysfield says there appears to be strong compliance in the borderland.
"Guys at the border are telling us that a vast majority of people already had their documents weeks ago," says Bysfield. "They only saw a few people who still don't have them and their giving out little slips of paper saying your non-compliant, next time throught why don't you get one of the compliant documents."
Those documents include a passport, enhanced driver's license or approved identification card. Bysfield says the new rules will make it easier and more secure for travellers in the long run.
No problems were reported at either International Falls or Baudette crossings yesterday.
H1N1 in Northwestern Ontario
2009-06-02
07:39:52
The Northwestern Health Unit has reported its first case of H1N1 influenza in the region.
The exact location has not been disclosed, but the Health Unit says the individual has recovered from mild symptoms of the acute illness and is reportedly doing well.
As of yesterday, Ontario had 715 confirmed cases, up 89 from Friday.
Far North Protection
2009-06-02
07:29:33
At least half of Ontario's Far North will be permanently protected under legislation to be introduced at the legislature today.
The bill would protect at least 225-thousand square kilometres in a network of conservation areas.
There will also be a community-based land use planning process to identify areas where development can take place to would benefit First Nations communities north of the 51st parallel.
The province has already reached 13 memorandums of understanding on land use planning with First Nations in the region.
Forestry Protests Today
2009-06-02
07:28:44
Mill workers are planning to block the Trans-Canada Highway in Dryden today.
This afternoon's protest is to coincide with a rally taking placing in Ottawa.
Thousands of paper mill workers are heading to the nation's capital to draw attention to the crisis in forestry, pulp and paper.
The rally will begins this morning outside the office of the federal natural resources minister.
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union says the situation is bleak at mills across Canada, with 55,000 layoffs over the past two years.
It's asking the Harper government for better protection of wages and pensions during bankruptcy cases and a national forestry summit.
Abattoir Project a Go
2009-06-02
07:23:28
Proponents of a abattoir in Emo say construction will begin at the end of this month.
The Rainy River District Regional Abattoir group says all of the funding for the 2-million dollar project is place and a contract has been awarded. The organization will cover the the remaining 360-thousand dollars
President Steve Loshaw says it's been a long time coming.
"We're obviously very happy to get going," says Loshaw. "We're starting into the fourth year of this membership. It's been a very long road and we're really glad to get started on this and hope to have the abattoir open by the end of the year."
When it opens, the facility will employ two or three part-time employees and handle beef, pork, bison and elk.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Dog Walk Successful
2009-06-01
13:12:15
The Fort Frances waterfront went to the dogs yesterday.
Twenty canines and their owners took to the Waterfront for the annual Purina Walk for Dog Guides put on by the Voyageur Lion's Club and the Fort Frances High School's Leo Club.
Organizer Kendall Richardson says the event proved to be their most successful to date.
"It was a great turnout," says Richardson. "We had the greatest number of walkers and financial support this year than we've had over the past four events."
More than $2,400 was raised which all goes to supporting the Lions Foundation of Canada and its Dog Guide programs.
Truck Driver Faces Drug Charge
2009-06-01
13:11:36
A truck driver has been charged after police in Thunder Bay seized ecstasy pills from the cab of a transport.
Police seized about 140-thousand pills in plastic bags from a truck at McKevitt Trucking last week.
A 31-year-old Brampton man is charged with a single count of drug possession for the purpose of trafficking.
High School Drug Sweep
2009-06-01
13:11:06
A drug sweep of Thunder Bay high schools has resulted in charges against 14 girls and boys ranging in age from 14 to 18.
Thunder Bay police spokesman Chris Adams says officers seized mainly marijuana.
Police laid 15 charges for drug possession, two for trafficking and one for breach of release conditions.
Forest Fire Hazard Remains Low
2009-06-01
13:10:13
Just one new forest fire reported in the West Fire Region over the weekend.
The fire, which has now been extinguished, occurred in the Kenora District late Saturday afternoon.
The forest fire hazard remains low across all sections of Northwestern Ontario.
New Fire Training Centre
2009-06-01
13:07:35
A new training centre is working well for the Fort Frances Fire and Rescue Service.
The Service is utilizing a building at the Fort Frances airport which serves as a back-up centre for the emergency control group.
Fire chief Gerry Armstrong says the site is allowing them to provide the training area firefighters need.
"We have our capability, which is a requirement of NFPA, to do live fire training," says Armstrong. "We can now do smoke, fire and rescue training. We have a simulated gable roof set up out there where we can send up people to do ventilation which is a requirement."
Armstrong says financial and manpower support from the Ministry of Natural Resources allowed the department to have the building fixed up to meet its needs
LCBO Workers Strike Date
2009-06-01
13:06:35
The union representing liquor store workers has set June 24 as the day they'll walk out if they don't have a new contract.
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union says it doesn't feel the Liquor Control Board of Ontario is bargaining ``seriously.''
But a LCBO spokesman says the strike deadline isn't necessary and the agency is committed to reaching an agreement.
The OPSEU contract with the LCBO expired on March 31.
More Schools Closing
2009-06-01
13:05:50
A new report from People for Education says 146 schools may be slated to close as a result of low enrolment.
It includes plans by the Rainy River District School Board to close Huffman and move students to the new Robert Moore School in Fort Frances.
Annie Kidder, the executive director of the organization, says the closures can hit smaller towns particularly hard, because they rely on the schools as community hubs.
But Education Minister Kathleen Wynne says school boards were in desperate need to make local decisions after a two year moratorium on school closures was lifted.
Adoptions Files Open
2009-06-01
13:05:11
Adopted children in Ontario will have an easier way to learn about their biological parents starting today.
That's when new legislation for the disclosure of adoption information takes effect.
Adoptees will be able to apply for copies of adoption orders and birth registrations while biological parents can ask for information from those documents.
The law also ensures files of people not interested in re-connecting remain sealed.
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