A post-mortem is to be conducted in Toronto today as an investigation continues into the discovery of human remains in northwestern Ontario.
A hunter came across the remains near Pickle Lake and investigators are trying to determine the person's identity and the cause of death.
Police say there is no evidence at the scene to suggest there was foul play.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Off-Road Vehicle Warnings
Recent complaints about the use of all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes within the town of Fort Frances has prompted a warning to users from the OPP.
Constable Anne McCoy says the vehicles are considered for recreational use and not licenced for operation on municipal streets.
"It's a municipal by-law, but there are also provincial regulations under the off-road motor vehicle act," says McCoy, "that regulate where you can ride. The fact that you need to be licensed if your off your personal property. People need to be aware of these legalities."
McCoy says most of the complaints received were about young people riding dirt bikes in the prohibited areas around Fourth Street and near the C-N tracks.
Constable Anne McCoy says the vehicles are considered for recreational use and not licenced for operation on municipal streets.
"It's a municipal by-law, but there are also provincial regulations under the off-road motor vehicle act," says McCoy, "that regulate where you can ride. The fact that you need to be licensed if your off your personal property. People need to be aware of these legalities."
McCoy says most of the complaints received were about young people riding dirt bikes in the prohibited areas around Fourth Street and near the C-N tracks.
Visitor Restrictions Lifted
Visitor restrictions at all of Riverside Health Care Facilities have been lifted.
The restrictions were put in place at the end of October at hospitals in Emo, Rainy River and Fort Frances as well as Rainycrest in response to the outbreak of the H1N1 flu.
They included children under the age of 18 being prohibited from visiting.
Officials say the number of people with the virus seeking care has eased, allowed them to remove the restrictions.
The restrictions were put in place at the end of October at hospitals in Emo, Rainy River and Fort Frances as well as Rainycrest in response to the outbreak of the H1N1 flu.
They included children under the age of 18 being prohibited from visiting.
Officials say the number of people with the virus seeking care has eased, allowed them to remove the restrictions.
Visitor Restrictions Lifted
Visitor restrictions at all of Riverside Health Care Facilities have been lifted.
The restrictions were put in place at the end of October at hospitals in Emo, Rainy River and Fort Frances as well as Rainycrest in response to the outbreak of the H1N1 flu.
They included children under the age of 18 being prohibited from visiting.
Officials say the number of people with the virus seeking care has eased and allowed them to remove the restrictions.
The restrictions were put in place at the end of October at hospitals in Emo, Rainy River and Fort Frances as well as Rainycrest in response to the outbreak of the H1N1 flu.
They included children under the age of 18 being prohibited from visiting.
Officials say the number of people with the virus seeking care has eased and allowed them to remove the restrictions.
Waterfront Projects Nears End
Work on the Fort Frances waterfront landmarks is expected to come to an end this week.
Community Services Manager George Bell says a final site meeting Friday with the contractor responsible for relocating the tugboat Hallet and former fire tower from Pither's Point Park will bring the project to a close.
Bell says costs fell within the budget of almost $1.1 million.
Community Services Manager George Bell says a final site meeting Friday with the contractor responsible for relocating the tugboat Hallet and former fire tower from Pither's Point Park will bring the project to a close.
Bell says costs fell within the budget of almost $1.1 million.
Councillor's Request Denied
Fort Frances councillor Ken Perry was denied by his fellow councillors last night a request for more time in moving a construction trailer from his property.
Perry had sought permission to keep the trailer until next May.
But Chief Building Official Rick Hallam told council that the councillor had been given plenty of opportunity to comply with municipal by-laws in removing the trailer.
"We've had many verbal discussions with respect to this issue," said Hallam. "It finally got to the point that we had to act through the proper challenges being the official the letter to remove the trailer."
Perry had cited work and personal reasons for being unable to meet a most recent removal date of September 15.
Perry had sought permission to keep the trailer until next May.
But Chief Building Official Rick Hallam told council that the councillor had been given plenty of opportunity to comply with municipal by-laws in removing the trailer.
"We've had many verbal discussions with respect to this issue," said Hallam. "It finally got to the point that we had to act through the proper challenges being the official the letter to remove the trailer."
Perry had cited work and personal reasons for being unable to meet a most recent removal date of September 15.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Local Sports for November 23
Fort Frances Lakers dropped a pair of games in Thunder Bay on the weekend to the league leading Fort William North Stars.
Saturday, the Lakers were trounced 11-2.
Mike Jourdain and Henry Gutierrrez scored for the Lakers who were outshot 56-17.
Tyler Stevenson with a pair and Colton Kennedy scored in a 5-3 loss to the Stars Friday.
The Lakers are home to the Wisconsin Mustangs tomorrow.
Fort Frances Muskies girls hockey team captured silver at the Miller Aces Hockey Tournament in Altona, Manitoba.
Muskies lost the championship game 4-3 to Pembina.
Jesse Baker scored all of Forts goals.
The Muskies boys hockey team won a pair of games against Red Lake in NORWOSSA action, with wins of 9-0 and 10-0.
Three Fort Frances girls hockey teams battled for medals at tournaments in Kenora.
The Rolling Lake Lightning struck gold with a 5-0 victory in the championship game on the novice side.
The Lightning went undefeated in the tournament.
The pink Novice Timbits lost a nailer-biter in the bronze medal game by 5-4 score in overtime.
The Fort Frances peewee Super 8 girls team also battled for bronze, losing 6-1 in the game.
The Fort Frances Kaemingh Esso Atom girls hockey team earned bronze at a tournament in Thunder Bay with a 2-1 win in a shootout.
Emma Noga scored in regulation time with Chivon MacKintosh notching the winner in the shootout.
And the Pharmasave midget Wildcats girls were beat out for the bronze by Dryden 4-1 in a Thunder Bay tournament.
The Lakewood Tire Eagles girls hockey team took home a gold medal at a tournament in Thunder Bay on the weekend.
The Eagles went undefeated in 6 games, capped by a 5-0 win in the championship game.
The Rainy River Community College women's hockey team has been ranked number two in the west division by the American Collegiate Hockey Association.
The defending ACHA-division two champions are 3-1 on the season and include Brenley Anderson of Rainy River and Katie Stearns of Fort Frances.
Saturday, the Lakers were trounced 11-2.
Mike Jourdain and Henry Gutierrrez scored for the Lakers who were outshot 56-17.
Tyler Stevenson with a pair and Colton Kennedy scored in a 5-3 loss to the Stars Friday.
The Lakers are home to the Wisconsin Mustangs tomorrow.
Fort Frances Muskies girls hockey team captured silver at the Miller Aces Hockey Tournament in Altona, Manitoba.
Muskies lost the championship game 4-3 to Pembina.
Jesse Baker scored all of Forts goals.
The Muskies boys hockey team won a pair of games against Red Lake in NORWOSSA action, with wins of 9-0 and 10-0.
Three Fort Frances girls hockey teams battled for medals at tournaments in Kenora.
The Rolling Lake Lightning struck gold with a 5-0 victory in the championship game on the novice side.
The Lightning went undefeated in the tournament.
The pink Novice Timbits lost a nailer-biter in the bronze medal game by 5-4 score in overtime.
The Fort Frances peewee Super 8 girls team also battled for bronze, losing 6-1 in the game.
The Fort Frances Kaemingh Esso Atom girls hockey team earned bronze at a tournament in Thunder Bay with a 2-1 win in a shootout.
Emma Noga scored in regulation time with Chivon MacKintosh notching the winner in the shootout.
And the Pharmasave midget Wildcats girls were beat out for the bronze by Dryden 4-1 in a Thunder Bay tournament.
The Lakewood Tire Eagles girls hockey team took home a gold medal at a tournament in Thunder Bay on the weekend.
The Eagles went undefeated in 6 games, capped by a 5-0 win in the championship game.
The Rainy River Community College women's hockey team has been ranked number two in the west division by the American Collegiate Hockey Association.
The defending ACHA-division two champions are 3-1 on the season and include Brenley Anderson of Rainy River and Katie Stearns of Fort Frances.
Former Officer Charged
More charges have been laid against a retired provincial police officer who once worked in Minaki and Whitedog.
Robert George Lewis was charged last week on two counts of gross indecency and two charges of indecent assault in connection with incidents that took place between 1976 and 1978 when he worked as an officer in the Kenora area.
Lewis now lives in Fenelon Falls and faces a number charges in connection with several sexual-assaults that occurred while he worked with the OPP across the province.
Robert George Lewis was charged last week on two counts of gross indecency and two charges of indecent assault in connection with incidents that took place between 1976 and 1978 when he worked as an officer in the Kenora area.
Lewis now lives in Fenelon Falls and faces a number charges in connection with several sexual-assaults that occurred while he worked with the OPP across the province.
Visitor Restrictions Lifted
Visitor restrictions at all of Riverside Health Care Facilities have been lifted.
The restrictions were put in place at the end of October at hospitals in Emo, Rainy River and Fort Frances as well as Rainycrest in response to the outbreak of the H-1-N-1 flu.
They included children under the age of 18 being prohibited from visiting.
Officials say the number of people with the virus seeking care has eased and allowed them to remove the restrictions.
The restrictions were put in place at the end of October at hospitals in Emo, Rainy River and Fort Frances as well as Rainycrest in response to the outbreak of the H-1-N-1 flu.
They included children under the age of 18 being prohibited from visiting.
Officials say the number of people with the virus seeking care has eased and allowed them to remove the restrictions.
Robert Moore Memories Collected
The search is on for former students and staff of Robert Moore school.
A meeting at the Fort Frances Library tonight at 7 p.m. will be held to discuss how to celebrate the closing of the nearly 100-year-old school.
Spokesperson Cynthia Donald says the possibilities right now are endless.
"We do have some ideas," says Donald, "like maybe a picture gallery, tour through the school, maybe some t-shirts or some cups."
Robert Moore is being replaced by a new school to open in the fall of 2010.
Tax Bill Looming
A $250-million loan between Canadian and U.S. subsidiaries of AbitibiBowater is forcing the company to juggle its corporate structure to avoid a big tax bill.
The Montreal-based company, which is operating under court protection from creditors, faces a more than $55-million withholding tax in Canada, and potentially more in the United States, unless it is able to repay an inter-company loan this year.
In court documents filed last week, the U.S. holding company AbitibiBowater US Holding LLC says it "does not have sufficient funds" to repay the $200-million loan.
The Montreal-based company, which is operating under court protection from creditors, faces a more than $55-million withholding tax in Canada, and potentially more in the United States, unless it is able to repay an inter-company loan this year.
In court documents filed last week, the U.S. holding company AbitibiBowater US Holding LLC says it "does not have sufficient funds" to repay the $200-million loan.
Hamper Requests Collected
The Salvation Army in Fort Frances is giving the opportunity to those who need Christmas hampers this year to register this week.
Captain Angel Sandoval says residents requiring a hamper can pick up forms today and tomorrow at the Citadel.
"We are asking to the families who are going to apply for the Christmas hamper to bring the proper i.d." says Sandoval. "Not only for them, but of their kids as well and the income and expenses they have."
Registration forms must be returned by Wednesday or Thursday of this week
Captain Angel Sandoval says residents requiring a hamper can pick up forms today and tomorrow at the Citadel.
"We are asking to the families who are going to apply for the Christmas hamper to bring the proper i.d." says Sandoval. "Not only for them, but of their kids as well and the income and expenses they have."
Registration forms must be returned by Wednesday or Thursday of this week
New H1N1 Numbers
The Ministry of Health says there were 20 new cases of the H1N1 flu virus this past week in northwestern Ontario.
Since the second wave of the virus began back in October, there have been 62 cases confirmed in this region.
Overall, the province says the number of cases of H1N1 were actually down this past week.
Since the second wave of the virus began back in October, there have been 62 cases confirmed in this region.
Overall, the province says the number of cases of H1N1 were actually down this past week.
Bio-Energy Industry Explored
Researchers looking into the future of a bio-energy industry for the town of Atikokan have wrapped up their work, but say its not the end.
Lakehead University and a team of researchers and students spent three years examining the issues surrounding a bio-energy economy.
The university's vice-president of research Rui Wang says the information gathered provides a blueprint for other agencies to take the next step.
"We have all sort of scientific data," says Wang, "and strong recommendations. We need to work together with all stakeholders to make sure that it (the bio-energy industry) will generate a long-term impact to the region."
More than 20 reports and one patent were generated out of the researchers work.
Lakehead University and a team of researchers and students spent three years examining the issues surrounding a bio-energy economy.
The university's vice-president of research Rui Wang says the information gathered provides a blueprint for other agencies to take the next step.
"We have all sort of scientific data," says Wang, "and strong recommendations. We need to work together with all stakeholders to make sure that it (the bio-energy industry) will generate a long-term impact to the region."
More than 20 reports and one patent were generated out of the researchers work.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Farmer Market Project Advances
The Clover Valley Farmer's Market and its food box program has entered a third round of voting in an on-line contest.
The market is seeking a share of half-a-million dollars, insurance company Aviva Canada, will dole out to projects across Canada early next year.
The public is being encouraged to vote.
To support the Clover Valley Farmers' Market project, go to http://www.avivacommunityfund.org/ideas/acf3715 and click the 'Cast Your Ballot' button.
The market is seeking a share of half-a-million dollars, insurance company Aviva Canada, will dole out to projects across Canada early next year.
The public is being encouraged to vote.
To support the Clover Valley Farmers' Market project, go to http://www.avivacommunityfund.org/ideas/acf3715 and click the 'Cast Your Ballot' button.
Monday, November 16, 2009
New Green Leader
Ontario's Green Party has a new leader who hopes to help elect heir first MPP to Queen's Park.
Toronto entrepreneur Mike Schreiner was chosen to replace Frank de Jong at the party's leadership convention in London.
Schreiner says the party will fight to win a seat in the 20-11 election.
Toronto entrepreneur Mike Schreiner was chosen to replace Frank de Jong at the party's leadership convention in London.
Schreiner says the party will fight to win a seat in the 20-11 election.
Local Sports for Monday November 16
Fort Frances Muskies girls hockey team has started the season 0-2 after losing games to Kenora and Dryden on the weekend.
Saturday, Muskies fell 6-3 in their home opener to Dryden.
Anikka Mctavish, Ericka Tymkin and Taylor Dixon scored for Fort Frances.
Friday, the Muskies lost by the same 6-3 score to Kenora.
Jillian Langtry had a pair and Danielle Jean the other goal.
Fort Frances Muskies boys hockey team scored the winner with 1-second left to play en route to a 3-2 victory over Dryden in the final of the Morden Manitoba High School Tournament.
Muskies open their NORWOSSA season tomorrow.
The Fort Frances Nor-Fab Flames Peewee Girls Rep team earned a pair of wins on the road, defeating Cloquet 3-2 and Proctor 11-2 in games played Saturday.
Amber Jourdain, Myla Angus and Amy Penner scored in the game against Cloquet in which the Flames outshot their opponents 31-9.
In the game against Proctor, Madisyn DeGagne had four goals, Amber Jourdain with a hatrick and Jessica Coran with two.
Myla Angus and Abbi Perreault rounded out the scoring
In Atom girls hockey in Emo Friday, Fort Frances Kaemingh Esso beat Nestor Falls Marine 7-1.
Maighyn Degagne had four goals for Esso with Emma Noga collecting a pair and Khali Degagne the other.
Avery Cates scored for Nestor Falls
At a bantam boys hockey tournament in Emo, Fort Frances Canadian Tire won the b-side championship with a 4-1 win over Emo.
Jordan Windigo had a pair with Josh Gwinn and Jayme Taylor adding singles for Canadian Tire.
Rainy River Community College Women's hockey team swept Minot State University on the weekend.
Brenley Anderson had 4-goals in the Voyageurs' 6-4 win Sunday in Minot.
Saturday, Anderson got the winning goal with 4-minutes left in the third to give Rainy River a 6-5 decision.
On the court, the Voyageurs' men's basketball team split a pair of games, defeating Hibbing 81-70 Friday before falling 77-75 in overtime to Mesabi Range.
The women's basketball team opened its season with a win Friday 75-63 over Hibbing.
Saturday, Muskies fell 6-3 in their home opener to Dryden.
Anikka Mctavish, Ericka Tymkin and Taylor Dixon scored for Fort Frances.
Friday, the Muskies lost by the same 6-3 score to Kenora.
Jillian Langtry had a pair and Danielle Jean the other goal.
Fort Frances Muskies boys hockey team scored the winner with 1-second left to play en route to a 3-2 victory over Dryden in the final of the Morden Manitoba High School Tournament.
Muskies open their NORWOSSA season tomorrow.
The Fort Frances Nor-Fab Flames Peewee Girls Rep team earned a pair of wins on the road, defeating Cloquet 3-2 and Proctor 11-2 in games played Saturday.
Amber Jourdain, Myla Angus and Amy Penner scored in the game against Cloquet in which the Flames outshot their opponents 31-9.
In the game against Proctor, Madisyn DeGagne had four goals, Amber Jourdain with a hatrick and Jessica Coran with two.
Myla Angus and Abbi Perreault rounded out the scoring
In Atom girls hockey in Emo Friday, Fort Frances Kaemingh Esso beat Nestor Falls Marine 7-1.
Maighyn Degagne had four goals for Esso with Emma Noga collecting a pair and Khali Degagne the other.
Avery Cates scored for Nestor Falls
At a bantam boys hockey tournament in Emo, Fort Frances Canadian Tire won the b-side championship with a 4-1 win over Emo.
Jordan Windigo had a pair with Josh Gwinn and Jayme Taylor adding singles for Canadian Tire.
Rainy River Community College Women's hockey team swept Minot State University on the weekend.
Brenley Anderson had 4-goals in the Voyageurs' 6-4 win Sunday in Minot.
Saturday, Anderson got the winning goal with 4-minutes left in the third to give Rainy River a 6-5 decision.
On the court, the Voyageurs' men's basketball team split a pair of games, defeating Hibbing 81-70 Friday before falling 77-75 in overtime to Mesabi Range.
The women's basketball team opened its season with a win Friday 75-63 over Hibbing.
HST Introduced Today
Ontario's Liberal government will introduce legislation today to harmonize the province's eight per cent sales tax with the five per cent G-S-T.
In addition to creating a single, 13 per cent sales tax next July, the bill also includes a series of cuts to income, small business and corporate taxes that take effect in January.
Finance Minister Dwight Duncan says the province needs to make businesses more competitive so they can hire more people and lower prices for consumers.
He says the tax package is about creating jobs and rebuilding Ontario's economy as it emerges from the recession.
The bill also provides for tax rebate cheques of up to one-thousand dollars for families to help offset the impact of the H-S-T in the first year.
The opposition parties call the H-S-T a blatant tax grab which will add eight per cent to many items now exempt from the provincial sales tax, including gasoline, home heating fuel and hydro bills.
The National Citizen's Coalition estimates the H-S-T will cost the average taxpayer an additional 800 to one-thousand dollars annually.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River M-P John Rafferty is still confident people can still halt the Harmonized Sale Tax from moving ahead.
Rafferty says opposition to the blended tax is growing as more and more people begin to realize the true impact HST will have on their budgets.
Rafferty has asked the federal government not forward $4.3 million to Ontario toward the harmonizing of the sales tax, a motion that expected to come up for debate early in the new year.
In addition to creating a single, 13 per cent sales tax next July, the bill also includes a series of cuts to income, small business and corporate taxes that take effect in January.
Finance Minister Dwight Duncan says the province needs to make businesses more competitive so they can hire more people and lower prices for consumers.
He says the tax package is about creating jobs and rebuilding Ontario's economy as it emerges from the recession.
The bill also provides for tax rebate cheques of up to one-thousand dollars for families to help offset the impact of the H-S-T in the first year.
The opposition parties call the H-S-T a blatant tax grab which will add eight per cent to many items now exempt from the provincial sales tax, including gasoline, home heating fuel and hydro bills.
The National Citizen's Coalition estimates the H-S-T will cost the average taxpayer an additional 800 to one-thousand dollars annually.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River M-P John Rafferty is still confident people can still halt the Harmonized Sale Tax from moving ahead.
Rafferty says opposition to the blended tax is growing as more and more people begin to realize the true impact HST will have on their budgets.
Rafferty has asked the federal government not forward $4.3 million to Ontario toward the harmonizing of the sales tax, a motion that expected to come up for debate early in the new year.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Local Sports for Friday November 13
Fort Frances Muskies junior and senior girls basketball teams are NORWOSSA Champs.
The senior girls earned the right to play in the NWOSSA title next weekend in Thunder Bay following a 26-13 win over Kenora's Beaver Brae Broncos yesterday.
The Muskies will play the winner of the SSSAA championship between Hammarskjold and St. Patrick's High Schools.
Erika Moffit scored 12 while Chantal Jodoin chipped in 11 points to help the junior girls to a 34-24 win over Dryden.
The Muskies junior boys volleyball team was upset by Dryden in the finals 3-sets to one.
The senior boys volleyball team was eliminated from in a semi-final game with Dryden in four sets.
Fort Frances Muskies girls hockey team kicks off its season on the road today in Kenora before tomorrow's home opener at the Ice for Kids Arena against Dryden.
Prior to the drop of the puck at 7:15 p.m., there will be a tribute to longtime Muskies supporter Cam Smith, who recently passed away.
The boys team travels to Morden, Manitoba for a tournament.
Fort Frances Lakers ended a three-game home stand winless following a 5-3 loss to Sioux Lookout last night.
Henry Gutierrez, Jordan Carne and Anders Wicks scored for the Lakers who are idle until next Wednesday.
Fort Frances Midget Canadians take to the road this weekend for a three-game set against Shattuck-St. Mary's in Faribault, Minnesota.
The pee-wee girls Norfab Flames travel to Cloquet and Proctor tomorrow before returning Sunday for a game against the BDO Dunwoody Bantams.
In girls hockey last night, Super 8 and the Lakewood Eagles tied 5-5.
Madison Degagne had a hat trick for Super 8 with Amber Jordain adding a pair.
Amy Penner had a hat-trick for Lakewood with Jessica Coran and Rachael Dean notching singles.
Fort Frances Atom AA Girls team, the Dynamic Homes Hurricanes will play its first game of the season Sunday at the Ice for Kids Arena against the Causeway Cougars.
There is bantam hockey tournament in Emo this weekend.
In play today, the Holmlund Leafs beat the Kennedy K-9's 4-0.
Emo Predators defeated Fort Frances Canadian Tire 4-1.
Rainy River Voyageurs women's hockey team heads to North Dakota for a pair of games against Minot State University.
The Voyageur's basketball teams begin their seasons today.
Both the men and women's teams are playing at the Mesabi tournament in Virginia.
The senior girls earned the right to play in the NWOSSA title next weekend in Thunder Bay following a 26-13 win over Kenora's Beaver Brae Broncos yesterday.
The Muskies will play the winner of the SSSAA championship between Hammarskjold and St. Patrick's High Schools.
Erika Moffit scored 12 while Chantal Jodoin chipped in 11 points to help the junior girls to a 34-24 win over Dryden.
The Muskies junior boys volleyball team was upset by Dryden in the finals 3-sets to one.
The senior boys volleyball team was eliminated from in a semi-final game with Dryden in four sets.
Fort Frances Muskies girls hockey team kicks off its season on the road today in Kenora before tomorrow's home opener at the Ice for Kids Arena against Dryden.
Prior to the drop of the puck at 7:15 p.m., there will be a tribute to longtime Muskies supporter Cam Smith, who recently passed away.
The boys team travels to Morden, Manitoba for a tournament.
Fort Frances Lakers ended a three-game home stand winless following a 5-3 loss to Sioux Lookout last night.
Henry Gutierrez, Jordan Carne and Anders Wicks scored for the Lakers who are idle until next Wednesday.
Fort Frances Midget Canadians take to the road this weekend for a three-game set against Shattuck-St. Mary's in Faribault, Minnesota.
The pee-wee girls Norfab Flames travel to Cloquet and Proctor tomorrow before returning Sunday for a game against the BDO Dunwoody Bantams.
In girls hockey last night, Super 8 and the Lakewood Eagles tied 5-5.
Madison Degagne had a hat trick for Super 8 with Amber Jordain adding a pair.
Amy Penner had a hat-trick for Lakewood with Jessica Coran and Rachael Dean notching singles.
Fort Frances Atom AA Girls team, the Dynamic Homes Hurricanes will play its first game of the season Sunday at the Ice for Kids Arena against the Causeway Cougars.
There is bantam hockey tournament in Emo this weekend.
In play today, the Holmlund Leafs beat the Kennedy K-9's 4-0.
Emo Predators defeated Fort Frances Canadian Tire 4-1.
Rainy River Voyageurs women's hockey team heads to North Dakota for a pair of games against Minot State University.
The Voyageur's basketball teams begin their seasons today.
Both the men and women's teams are playing at the Mesabi tournament in Virginia.
Growth North Session Planned
The province is giving more communities in northern Ontario an opportunity to have a say into the new Northern Growth plan.
A meeting Monday night will be held through Contact North's video-conference sites, including those in Fort Frances and Atikokan.
The session begins at 5:30 p.m.
A meeting Monday night will be held through Contact North's video-conference sites, including those in Fort Frances and Atikokan.
The session begins at 5:30 p.m.
Border Enforcement Working
A hardening of the Canada-U.S. border appears to be yielding early results.
U-S. border officials say increased enforcement, improved police co-operation and new technology are behind the gains.
The U-S seized almost 18-thousand kilograms of marijuana this year, compared to just over 4-thousand in 2008.
The number of people caught illegally entering the U.S. from Canada fell from 8-thousand to just under 7-thousand
A U-S. security official says there are about 15-hundred staff working the northern border now compared to about 900 in 2006.
U-S. border officials say increased enforcement, improved police co-operation and new technology are behind the gains.
The U-S seized almost 18-thousand kilograms of marijuana this year, compared to just over 4-thousand in 2008.
The number of people caught illegally entering the U.S. from Canada fell from 8-thousand to just under 7-thousand
A U-S. security official says there are about 15-hundred staff working the northern border now compared to about 900 in 2006.
College Talks Break Down
Contract talks between Ontario's community colleges and the union representing full-time faculty have broke off.
As a result, Colleges Ontario says it will exercise its right to will introduce a new contract that gives full time teachers, including those with Confederation College in Fort Frances, an eight per cent wage hike over four years.
Chair of the college's bargaining team Rachael Donovan says the increase is in line other recent public sector contract agreements.
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union was not immediately available to comment on move.
As a result, Colleges Ontario says it will exercise its right to will introduce a new contract that gives full time teachers, including those with Confederation College in Fort Frances, an eight per cent wage hike over four years.
Chair of the college's bargaining team Rachael Donovan says the increase is in line other recent public sector contract agreements.
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union was not immediately available to comment on move.
Missing Hunter
A search is underway in the Kenora area for a hunter who has been missing for the past four days.
OPP say the 50-year-old unidentified man is believed to be hunting in the Minaki and Whitedog areas.
He was last seen on Monday morning.
OPP say the 50-year-old unidentified man is believed to be hunting in the Minaki and Whitedog areas.
He was last seen on Monday morning.
Crash Victims Identified
OPP have now released the names of three men killed in last Friday's plane crash near the remote community of Cat Lake.
The pilot has been identified as 50-year-old Mike Pateman from Dryden.
The names of the two passengers in the Lockhart Airways Cessna 310 have been confirmed as 46-year-old Ronald Oombash from Cat Lake and 29-year-old Dean Meekis from Deer Lake.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation.
Regular Flu Shots Available
Vaccine for the seasonal flu is now being rolled out to the public by the Northwestern Health Unit.
Up until now, the Health Unit had been focusing on providing residents in the Kenora and Rainy River districts with the H-1-N-1 flu shot.
Director of Health Protection Arlene Lesenke says residents can now get both shots at the same time if they desire.
"Even though our clinics are advertised for H1N1 right now, we usually do have seasonal influenza vaccine with us," says Lesenke. "If people are looking for that we are administering that as well."
Nearly 9,000 doses of vaccine have been provided to area residents since flu shot clinics began two weeks ago.
Up until now, the Health Unit had been focusing on providing residents in the Kenora and Rainy River districts with the H-1-N-1 flu shot.
Director of Health Protection Arlene Lesenke says residents can now get both shots at the same time if they desire.
"Even though our clinics are advertised for H1N1 right now, we usually do have seasonal influenza vaccine with us," says Lesenke. "If people are looking for that we are administering that as well."
Nearly 9,000 doses of vaccine have been provided to area residents since flu shot clinics began two weeks ago.
Vote for Clover Valley Farmers' Market
The Clover Valley Farmers' Market is looking for your vote.
The market's food box program is competing in on-line contest sponsored by Aviva Canada which will provide half-a-million dollars to a variety of projects that promote positive change.
Kim Cornell says part of the contest requires computer users to cast ballots.
"Somebody gave us the idea and we felt what the heck," says Cornell. "You don't have get one of the big (cash prizes) ones. They give out several small ones as well.
To vote, click this link www.avivacommunityfund.org/ideas/acf3715.
The market's food box program is competing in on-line contest sponsored by Aviva Canada which will provide half-a-million dollars to a variety of projects that promote positive change.
Kim Cornell says part of the contest requires computer users to cast ballots.
"Somebody gave us the idea and we felt what the heck," says Cornell. "You don't have get one of the big (cash prizes) ones. They give out several small ones as well.
To vote, click this link www.avivacommunityfund.org/ideas/acf3715.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Local Sports for Thursday November 12
Fort Frances Muskies court teams will be battling for NORWOSSA championships today in Kenora.
The junior girls and senior girls basketball teams along with the junior boys volleyball team, all earned byes to this afternoons finals.
The senior boys volleyball team plays Dryden in a semi-final match with the winner to meet Kenora.
Fort Frances Lakers host the Sioux Lookout Flyers tonight in the last of a three-game home stand.
Game time at the Ice for Kids Arena is 7:30
Joe Basaraba has made it official.
The former Fort Frances Muskies was one of the first players to forward signed letters of intent to play for the University of Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs next season.
Basaraba is currently playing with Shattuck-St. Mary’s High School.
Yesterday was the first day for of an NCAA early signing period.
Fort Frances women's volleyball league continues play tonight.
A Buck or Two has opened up a 5 point bulge on Gillon's Insurance for the league lead.
Lac La Croix is in a tight battle for third with four other teams separated by just four points.
The junior girls and senior girls basketball teams along with the junior boys volleyball team, all earned byes to this afternoons finals.
The senior boys volleyball team plays Dryden in a semi-final match with the winner to meet Kenora.
Fort Frances Lakers host the Sioux Lookout Flyers tonight in the last of a three-game home stand.
Game time at the Ice for Kids Arena is 7:30
Joe Basaraba has made it official.
The former Fort Frances Muskies was one of the first players to forward signed letters of intent to play for the University of Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs next season.
Basaraba is currently playing with Shattuck-St. Mary’s High School.
Yesterday was the first day for of an NCAA early signing period.
Fort Frances women's volleyball league continues play tonight.
A Buck or Two has opened up a 5 point bulge on Gillon's Insurance for the league lead.
Lac La Croix is in a tight battle for third with four other teams separated by just four points.
Local Sports for Tuesday November 10
Fort Frances Thunderhawks have their paperwork sorted out and will play their first game tonight against the Kenora Thistles.
The new senior hockey club was forced to cancel two games with the Thunder Bay Twins on the weekend after learning not all of its players had been signed in time to be covered through Hockey Canada insurance.
General Manager Dean Bruyere says the situation has been sorted out and tonight's games with the Thistles at the Ice for Kids arena is a go.
It starts at 7 p.m.
In Bantam girls play from Monday night, the BDO Dunwoody Stars tied Energy 1-1 in a goaltending battle between Shailyn Loyie and Callie Clendenning.
Danielle Jackson and Shelby Rea scored the goals for their respective teams.
The new senior hockey club was forced to cancel two games with the Thunder Bay Twins on the weekend after learning not all of its players had been signed in time to be covered through Hockey Canada insurance.
General Manager Dean Bruyere says the situation has been sorted out and tonight's games with the Thistles at the Ice for Kids arena is a go.
It starts at 7 p.m.
In Bantam girls play from Monday night, the BDO Dunwoody Stars tied Energy 1-1 in a goaltending battle between Shailyn Loyie and Callie Clendenning.
Danielle Jackson and Shelby Rea scored the goals for their respective teams.
Network Up for Award
Northern Diabetes Health Network is up for a provincial award.
The network's Northern Ontario Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative is among finalists for an Innovation in Health Care Award to be presented later this month in Toronto.
The Initiative helped identify priority needs of Aboriginal communities and organizations in dealing with diabetes among First Nations people.
The network's Northern Ontario Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative is among finalists for an Innovation in Health Care Award to be presented later this month in Toronto.
The Initiative helped identify priority needs of Aboriginal communities and organizations in dealing with diabetes among First Nations people.
Airport Usage
Almost 650 aircraft used the Fort Frances airport in August.
That's about a 6 per cent drop from the number recorded in July and a decline of nearly 13 per cent from that recorded in August 2008.
Of the airport users this August, 139 were private aircraft and 63 were international flights.
That's about a 6 per cent drop from the number recorded in July and a decline of nearly 13 per cent from that recorded in August 2008.
Of the airport users this August, 139 were private aircraft and 63 were international flights.
Contract Offer Declined
People looking to get their driver's licence are not going to be behind the wheel any time soon.
Ontario's striking driver examiners, represented by the United Steelworkers, have rejected DriveTest's latest offer by 78 per cent.
The strike, which began in August, affects 93 full-time and part-time DriveTest sites, including the one in Fort Frances.
Managers at some DriveTest centres in Ontario are giving driving exams while unionized employees are on strike.
Six locations, including one in Thunder Bay, opened today.
Only partial services will be offered: written tests for all classes of licences, road test for commercially classified licences and out-of-province or out-of-country licence exchanges.
Ontario's striking driver examiners, represented by the United Steelworkers, have rejected DriveTest's latest offer by 78 per cent.
The strike, which began in August, affects 93 full-time and part-time DriveTest sites, including the one in Fort Frances.
Managers at some DriveTest centres in Ontario are giving driving exams while unionized employees are on strike.
Six locations, including one in Thunder Bay, opened today.
Only partial services will be offered: written tests for all classes of licences, road test for commercially classified licences and out-of-province or out-of-country licence exchanges.
Sixth Street School Plans
It could be some time before Community Living Fort Frances District determines exactly what it wants to do with the former Sixth Street School in Fort Frances.
The agency purchased the vacant school and property for a dollar from the Rainy River District School Board.
Executive Director Alanna Barr says it could be a resources centre, but there's a lot of planning to do first.
"We're just looking at our options," says Barr. "and considering what is our best options that will meet our need, not only in the long-term, but in the short term as well."
Barr says its likely the existing school will be demolished as it is not accessible and would be too costly to bring it up to standard.
The agency purchased the vacant school and property for a dollar from the Rainy River District School Board.
Executive Director Alanna Barr says it could be a resources centre, but there's a lot of planning to do first.
"We're just looking at our options," says Barr. "and considering what is our best options that will meet our need, not only in the long-term, but in the short term as well."
Barr says its likely the existing school will be demolished as it is not accessible and would be too costly to bring it up to standard.
Local Soldier Recognized
A Fort Frances area soldier currently on duty in Afghanistan is being hailed a hero.
Sergeant Russell Gregoirie was recently awarded the Medal of Military Valour for his actions in June 2008 in which he helped lead a group of soldiers to safety while under heavy fire.
His girlfriend Angela Halvorson says she's proud of his accomplishments.
"I think what he does over there is amazing," says Halvorson. "For them to recognize him for his efforts and the fact that he had to go above and beyond to do what he did is pretty amazing.
Halvorson says Gregoirie is now part of a troop providing security to a reconstruction team helping to rebuild war-torn areas of the country.
He's to receive his medal at a ceremony to be held at a later date.
Sergeant Russell Gregoirie was recently awarded the Medal of Military Valour for his actions in June 2008 in which he helped lead a group of soldiers to safety while under heavy fire.
His girlfriend Angela Halvorson says she's proud of his accomplishments.
"I think what he does over there is amazing," says Halvorson. "For them to recognize him for his efforts and the fact that he had to go above and beyond to do what he did is pretty amazing.
Halvorson says Gregoirie is now part of a troop providing security to a reconstruction team helping to rebuild war-torn areas of the country.
He's to receive his medal at a ceremony to be held at a later date.
Soldiers Remembered
Hundred of residents gathered at cenotaphs across the Rainy River district for Wednesday's Remembrance Day ceremonies.
In Fort Frances, Pastor Barb Miller asked that we never forget the sacrifice soldiers have made.
"May we never forgot the price that men, women and their families have paid so that we can live in freedom," said Miller. "May we generally honour them by working for peace."
Ceremonies were also highlighted by a group of young students from F.H. Huffman School reciting the poem "In Flanders Fields."
In Fort Frances, Pastor Barb Miller asked that we never forget the sacrifice soldiers have made.
"May we never forgot the price that men, women and their families have paid so that we can live in freedom," said Miller. "May we generally honour them by working for peace."
Ceremonies were also highlighted by a group of young students from F.H. Huffman School reciting the poem "In Flanders Fields."
Parents Charged
The parents of two young children have been charged after OPP found the youngsters, one without clothes and the other wearing only a diaper, alone on a Kenora street.
The toddlers, aged one and two, were found around 4:30 a.m. Sunday.
Police were led to the children's home where they found the parents inside and a large quantity of marijuana.
A 42 year old man and a 38 year old woman face charges of failing to provide the necessaries of life, as well as drug trafficking charges.
The children have been turned over to Children's Aid.
The toddlers, aged one and two, were found around 4:30 a.m. Sunday.
Police were led to the children's home where they found the parents inside and a large quantity of marijuana.
A 42 year old man and a 38 year old woman face charges of failing to provide the necessaries of life, as well as drug trafficking charges.
The children have been turned over to Children's Aid.
Citizen of the Year Named
Fort Frances' Citizen of the Year says she's honoured but humbled by the recognition.
Diane Maxey was bestowed the honour in an announcement by Mayor Roy Avis last night.
Maxey says its an honour she accepts on behalf of the many people she works with.
"No one person ever does anything by themselves," says Maxey. "It takes many, many people. It takes a team to make anything work well. That's what I always been privileged and honoured to have with me, people who are committed and willing to do things. It's a great honour."
Maxey is best known for her development and direction of the Choraliers and the Rainy River Hand Bell Ringers
Diane Maxey was bestowed the honour in an announcement by Mayor Roy Avis last night.
Maxey says its an honour she accepts on behalf of the many people she works with.
"No one person ever does anything by themselves," says Maxey. "It takes many, many people. It takes a team to make anything work well. That's what I always been privileged and honoured to have with me, people who are committed and willing to do things. It's a great honour."
Maxey is best known for her development and direction of the Choraliers and the Rainy River Hand Bell Ringers
Northern Producers at Royal
There is a strong northwestern Ontario flavour to this year's Royal Winter Agricultural Fair in Toronto.
Seventeen different products from companies between Thunder Bay and Kenora are on display at this year's agricultural showcase.
Rural Agricultural Coordinator for the Rainy River Futures Development Corporation Jeannette Cawston says attendance at last year's event convince them to join forced with other communities this year.
"All of the Community Future Development Corporations are on side to send their product," says Cawston, "like Atikokan, Kenora, Thunder Bay, Dryden and Rainy River district. We have products from all those regions. So we're going there are a region and try to knock their socks off."
The fair includes a separate section for northern Ontario which Cawston says better help local producers promote their products to fair goers.
Seventeen different products from companies between Thunder Bay and Kenora are on display at this year's agricultural showcase.
Rural Agricultural Coordinator for the Rainy River Futures Development Corporation Jeannette Cawston says attendance at last year's event convince them to join forced with other communities this year.
"All of the Community Future Development Corporations are on side to send their product," says Cawston, "like Atikokan, Kenora, Thunder Bay, Dryden and Rainy River district. We have products from all those regions. So we're going there are a region and try to knock their socks off."
The fair includes a separate section for northern Ontario which Cawston says better help local producers promote their products to fair goers.
H1N1 Flu Shots Available to All
The Northwestern Health Unit is making the H1N1 vaccine available to the general public.
Acting medical officer of health Doctor James Arthurs says he feels that a majority of people in the priority groups who want the vaccine have received it, and it's times to open it up to others.
The first of a number of walk-in clinics will happen today (Tuesday) at Robert Moore School in Fort Frances.
The vaccination for pregnant women is available by appointment through the Northwestern Health Unit.
Acting medical officer of health Doctor James Arthurs says he feels that a majority of people in the priority groups who want the vaccine have received it, and it's times to open it up to others.
The first of a number of walk-in clinics will happen today (Tuesday) at Robert Moore School in Fort Frances.
The vaccination for pregnant women is available by appointment through the Northwestern Health Unit.
Crash Victims Identified
Two of three men who were killed in Friday's plane crash in a remote section of northwestern Ontario have been identified.
Cat Lake First Nation search coordinator Russell Wesley, says Ronald Ombash of Cat Lake and Dean Meekis, formerly of Deer Lake, were both passengers aboard the Lockhart Air Service charter plane that went down southwest of the community.
Wesley, who says he was related to both men, says their deaths are a great loss for the community and grief counselling has been made available.
The pilot has not yet been identified.
Cat Lake First Nation search coordinator Russell Wesley, says Ronald Ombash of Cat Lake and Dean Meekis, formerly of Deer Lake, were both passengers aboard the Lockhart Air Service charter plane that went down southwest of the community.
Wesley, who says he was related to both men, says their deaths are a great loss for the community and grief counselling has been made available.
The pilot has not yet been identified.
Seeding Money Announced
The province is setting aside six-million dollars to purchase $13.5-million tree seedlings for forest renewal.
Forestry Minister Michael Gravelle says the sector will eventually rebound and this will help ensure its future is strong.
He says 70 jobs will be created this winter for site preparation with another 420 planting jobs being added next summer.
Forestry Minister Michael Gravelle says the sector will eventually rebound and this will help ensure its future is strong.
He says 70 jobs will be created this winter for site preparation with another 420 planting jobs being added next summer.
Paper Machine Keeps Going
A paper machine at the AbitibiBowater mill in Fort Frances that was to shutdown at the end of October is being allowed to continue at least until the middle of December.
The extended operation of machine number six was identified in court documents filed last week as part of ongoing monitoring of the company during the creditor protection process.
A recent increase in customer orders is allowing the AbitibiBowater to continue operating the machine for up to an additional six weeks.
The extended operation of machine number six was identified in court documents filed last week as part of ongoing monitoring of the company during the creditor protection process.
A recent increase in customer orders is allowing the AbitibiBowater to continue operating the machine for up to an additional six weeks.
Pensions Up for Discussion
AbitibiBowater workers and former employees in the Fort Frances area will get an update today (Tuesday) on what's being done to protect their pensions.
Two sessions are part of a series of meetings hosted by the Communication, Energy and Paperworkers Union across eastern Canada.
Pensioners are to receive an update on what the company and union have proposed to maintain their benefits while the company restructures.
Contract talks were recently suspended until the two sides would talk with governments over the pension issue.
Two sessions are part of a series of meetings hosted by the Communication, Energy and Paperworkers Union across eastern Canada.
Pensioners are to receive an update on what the company and union have proposed to maintain their benefits while the company restructures.
Contract talks were recently suspended until the two sides would talk with governments over the pension issue.
Deer Problems Discussed
Some residents in Fort Frances are looking for a solution to an increased presence of deer in the community.
About twenty property owners were at town council last night for a Ministry of Natural Resources presentation on the reasons behind deer being seen in town.
Helen Crook calls the damage caused by the animals a horrible problem.
"What can we do?," asked Crook. "We really need better bylaws. We need to have higher fences. We need some help. It's causing us endless amounts of trouble."
The town has a ban on the public feeding of deer, but the MNR says its going to take a couple of severe winters to help reduce the herds.
About twenty property owners were at town council last night for a Ministry of Natural Resources presentation on the reasons behind deer being seen in town.
Helen Crook calls the damage caused by the animals a horrible problem.
"What can we do?," asked Crook. "We really need better bylaws. We need to have higher fences. We need some help. It's causing us endless amounts of trouble."
The town has a ban on the public feeding of deer, but the MNR says its going to take a couple of severe winters to help reduce the herds.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Local Sports for Monday November 9
Fort Frances Lakers dropped a pair of home games on the weekend.
Yesterday, Lakers fell 8-0 to the Fort William North Stars in game that saw 10 players ejected in the third period.
Friday, the Lakers lost 4-3 to the the K & A Wolverines in a shootout.
Fort Frances Thunderhawks were forced to cancel their weekend series with the Thunder Bay Twins.
No official reason has been given, but a published report suggests it was due in part to the Thunderhawks not having enough players officially registered with Hockey Northwestern Ontario in time to be covered by Hockey Canada insurance.
No make up dates have been announced.
The Rolling Lake Thunder and Esso Atom girls hockey teams played to a pair of ties on the weekend, 0-0 Friday and 3-3 Sunday.
In Sunday game, Annaliese Hayes with 2 and Jenna Clendenning scored for the Thunder.
Emma Nova with a pair and Maddy Morrison responded for Esso.
The Fort Frances NorFab Flames peewee girls rep team fell 6-2 to the Fort Frances Firemen peewee boys team Sunday.
Amber Jourdain and Amy Penner scored for the Flames.
Cameron Turriff led the Firemen with a hat-trick.
Austin Angus with a pair and Tanner Angus had the other goals.
Rainy River Voyageurs women's hockey team split a pair of home games against the University of Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs.
Saturday, UMD scored three times in the third to earn a 3-2 win.
Yesterday, the Voyageurs got goals from four different players in a 4-1 win.
Sioux Lookout is the site of the NORWOSSA 'A' Playoffs today.
The Rainy River Owls junior girls basketball team is up against Red Lake this afternoon in a bid to play Kenora's Thomas Aquinas in tomorrow's final.
Atikokan's senior boys volleyball team is playing Red Lake with the winner advancing to tomorrow's final against Thomas Aquinas.
Yesterday, Lakers fell 8-0 to the Fort William North Stars in game that saw 10 players ejected in the third period.
Friday, the Lakers lost 4-3 to the the K & A Wolverines in a shootout.
Fort Frances Thunderhawks were forced to cancel their weekend series with the Thunder Bay Twins.
No official reason has been given, but a published report suggests it was due in part to the Thunderhawks not having enough players officially registered with Hockey Northwestern Ontario in time to be covered by Hockey Canada insurance.
No make up dates have been announced.
The Rolling Lake Thunder and Esso Atom girls hockey teams played to a pair of ties on the weekend, 0-0 Friday and 3-3 Sunday.
In Sunday game, Annaliese Hayes with 2 and Jenna Clendenning scored for the Thunder.
Emma Nova with a pair and Maddy Morrison responded for Esso.
The Fort Frances NorFab Flames peewee girls rep team fell 6-2 to the Fort Frances Firemen peewee boys team Sunday.
Amber Jourdain and Amy Penner scored for the Flames.
Cameron Turriff led the Firemen with a hat-trick.
Austin Angus with a pair and Tanner Angus had the other goals.
Rainy River Voyageurs women's hockey team split a pair of home games against the University of Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs.
Saturday, UMD scored three times in the third to earn a 3-2 win.
Yesterday, the Voyageurs got goals from four different players in a 4-1 win.
Sioux Lookout is the site of the NORWOSSA 'A' Playoffs today.
The Rainy River Owls junior girls basketball team is up against Red Lake this afternoon in a bid to play Kenora's Thomas Aquinas in tomorrow's final.
Atikokan's senior boys volleyball team is playing Red Lake with the winner advancing to tomorrow's final against Thomas Aquinas.
Cat Lake Plane Crash
Three people have been killed in a plane crash in a remote part of northwestern Ontario.
An official at CFB Trenton says the wreckage and bodies were spotted by a search and rescue crew Sunday evening about 20 kilometres from Cat Lake First Nation, north of Dryden.
The Lockhart Air Service charter plane with three people aboard left Sioux Lookout for Cat Lake on Friday.
The plane was reported overdue late that evening and a search was launched.
No word yet on the identities of the victims.
An official at CFB Trenton says the wreckage and bodies were spotted by a search and rescue crew Sunday evening about 20 kilometres from Cat Lake First Nation, north of Dryden.
The Lockhart Air Service charter plane with three people aboard left Sioux Lookout for Cat Lake on Friday.
The plane was reported overdue late that evening and a search was launched.
No word yet on the identities of the victims.
College Look Changing
The face of Confederation College is changing.
Seventy-per-cent of this year's first year students did not attend high school the previous year.
Coordinator of Counselling Services Jim Lees says the economy and changes within the workplace have forced many people back to school.
"We have the forest industry not doing very well and lots of people coming back into the learning environment who are into their 30's, 40's and sometimes in their 50's," says Lees. "The different generations definitely have different expectations about school. They process information differently. They have different work styles and they have very different attitudes toward authority."
Lees notes it's interesting to see the so-called baby boomer generation learning how to use a mouse alongside a generation of students who have never known a world without Internet.
Seventy-per-cent of this year's first year students did not attend high school the previous year.
Coordinator of Counselling Services Jim Lees says the economy and changes within the workplace have forced many people back to school.
"We have the forest industry not doing very well and lots of people coming back into the learning environment who are into their 30's, 40's and sometimes in their 50's," says Lees. "The different generations definitely have different expectations about school. They process information differently. They have different work styles and they have very different attitudes toward authority."
Lees notes it's interesting to see the so-called baby boomer generation learning how to use a mouse alongside a generation of students who have never known a world without Internet.
More School Closures Possible
An education advocacy group says Ontario will see an unprecedented number of school closings unless funding models are updated.
In a report due out later today, People for Education says schools are threatened by an ever-shrinking school-age population due to declining birth rates.
It says 172 Ontario schools are slated or recommended to close over the next three years and another 163 are under review.
In a report due out later today, People for Education says schools are threatened by an ever-shrinking school-age population due to declining birth rates.
It says 172 Ontario schools are slated or recommended to close over the next three years and another 163 are under review.
Student Leadership Fostered
A new student leadership program has been set up by the Northwest Catholic District School Board.
Education Director Mary-Catherine Kelly says they're now in the process of identifying students for the program aimed at giving them a stronger voice in their schools.
"The kids are going to get a chance to create a student leadership environment in each of our schools," says Kelly, "and be able to initiate community activities, moral and exciting activities within the culture of the school."
Kelly says plans includes bringing students from all of the schools together through a video-conference session and to a regional event in Thunder Bay in the future.
Education Director Mary-Catherine Kelly says they're now in the process of identifying students for the program aimed at giving them a stronger voice in their schools.
"The kids are going to get a chance to create a student leadership environment in each of our schools," says Kelly, "and be able to initiate community activities, moral and exciting activities within the culture of the school."
Kelly says plans includes bringing students from all of the schools together through a video-conference session and to a regional event in Thunder Bay in the future.
Unions Opposing Dalton Days
Ontario government unions don't want any part of Dalton Days.
The premier has raised the idea of unpaid days off for public sector workers to help deal with the province's record $25-billion deficit.
But CUPE, OPSEU and the Ontario Nurses Association say the Liberals should not try to resurrect former NDP premier Bob Rae's idea of unpaid days off -- or Rae Days.
Union leaders say there must be consultations and negotiations.
The premier has raised the idea of unpaid days off for public sector workers to help deal with the province's record $25-billion deficit.
But CUPE, OPSEU and the Ontario Nurses Association say the Liberals should not try to resurrect former NDP premier Bob Rae's idea of unpaid days off -- or Rae Days.
Union leaders say there must be consultations and negotiations.
Rafferty Fighting HST
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty is on a crusade to kill the harmonized sales tax in Ontario.
Rafferty tabled a motion in the House of Commons last week calling on the federal government to cancel the $4.3 billion dollars it intends to give the province for harmonizing the PST and GST.
Rafferty is also planning to tour the province to solicit support to the motion.
"What I'm hoping we can generate some support," says Rafferty, "the same kind of anti-HST support there is out in B.C. right now to get Ontarians fire-up to really start thinking about what HST means to them and their families.
Rafferty says the planned HST will hurt seniors and those on fixed incomes the most.
Rafferty tabled a motion in the House of Commons last week calling on the federal government to cancel the $4.3 billion dollars it intends to give the province for harmonizing the PST and GST.
Rafferty is also planning to tour the province to solicit support to the motion.
"What I'm hoping we can generate some support," says Rafferty, "the same kind of anti-HST support there is out in B.C. right now to get Ontarians fire-up to really start thinking about what HST means to them and their families.
Rafferty says the planned HST will hurt seniors and those on fixed incomes the most.
Local Sports for Friday November 6
Fort Frances' newest senior hockey club will play its first game this weekend.
The Thunderhawks, which are made up of former pro, college and junior players, are hosting the Thunder Bay Twins for a pair of games.
General Manager Dean Bruyere feels the team can be competitive.
Saturday the Thunderhawks will play in Fort Frances at 6:45 p.m. and again in Emo Sunday at 1 p.m.
Fort Frances Lakers are at home for a pair of games this weekend.
Friday they face the K & A Wolverines at the Ice for Kids Arena at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday the Lakers do battle against the Fort William North Stars beginning at 3:30 p.m. in the afternoon.
Fort Frances NorFab Flames peewee girls rep team faces off against the Fort Frances Firemen Peewee boys team on Sunday.
Game time at the 52 Canadian Arena is 6 p.m.
The Thunderhawks, which are made up of former pro, college and junior players, are hosting the Thunder Bay Twins for a pair of games.
General Manager Dean Bruyere feels the team can be competitive.
Saturday the Thunderhawks will play in Fort Frances at 6:45 p.m. and again in Emo Sunday at 1 p.m.
Fort Frances Lakers are at home for a pair of games this weekend.
Friday they face the K & A Wolverines at the Ice for Kids Arena at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday the Lakers do battle against the Fort William North Stars beginning at 3:30 p.m. in the afternoon.
Fort Frances NorFab Flames peewee girls rep team faces off against the Fort Frances Firemen Peewee boys team on Sunday.
Game time at the 52 Canadian Arena is 6 p.m.
October Weather
It was a cooler than normal October weather wise in the Fort Frances area.
Geoff Coulson of Environment Canada says the average temperature was about half the normal average.
"Average temperature was 2.8 C," says Coulson, "and the normal average temperature for October should be around 5.1 C.
Coulson says the area also experienced about 96-millimetres of rain which was almost double what is received normally.
Geoff Coulson of Environment Canada says the average temperature was about half the normal average.
"Average temperature was 2.8 C," says Coulson, "and the normal average temperature for October should be around 5.1 C.
Coulson says the area also experienced about 96-millimetres of rain which was almost double what is received normally.
Advance Placement Program Students Test Scores
Fort Frances High School enrolled in an advanced placement program scored high in recent testing.
The program provides students with an curriculum to help students achieve advanced standing in college or university courses.
Teacher Cathy Bruyere says local results were better than both national and international rates.
"Our students fared very well," says Bruyere, "compared to the national average which was 75.6 per cent of students achieved a level three or better. Our students achieved 83 per cent. On the global average only 74 per cent of students achieved the same result so I think our students did very well."
More than 300,000 students across the world wrote the mandatory test last spring.
The program provides students with an curriculum to help students achieve advanced standing in college or university courses.
Teacher Cathy Bruyere says local results were better than both national and international rates.
"Our students fared very well," says Bruyere, "compared to the national average which was 75.6 per cent of students achieved a level three or better. Our students achieved 83 per cent. On the global average only 74 per cent of students achieved the same result so I think our students did very well."
More than 300,000 students across the world wrote the mandatory test last spring.
Chambers Seats to be Filled
The Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce is looking to fill some vacancies on its board of directors.
Chamber Manager Anthony Mason says as many as two seats need to be filled at the board level with two other position opening at the executive level.
First vice-president Pam Anderson moved away and past-president Christine Denby has indicated plans to step down.
The chamber will hold its elections November 24.
Chamber Manager Anthony Mason says as many as two seats need to be filled at the board level with two other position opening at the executive level.
First vice-president Pam Anderson moved away and past-president Christine Denby has indicated plans to step down.
The chamber will hold its elections November 24.
Home-Based Businesses Promoted
Some home-based businesses in the Rainy River district are preparing to move into more visible surroundings.
Several of the small businesses will be setting up shop at the Clover Valley Farmer's Market this month.
Jessica Ogden, a Tupperware consultant in Fort Frances, says they want to bring more awareness to the district of these types of businesses.
"I just wanted to build my business," says Ogden, "so I thought there were others in the community who wanted to build their businesses as well. There's going to be a range of people there so it's just a way of letting people know we are out there."
Ogden says they'll be using the market every Saturday throughout the month to determine local response.
Several of the small businesses will be setting up shop at the Clover Valley Farmer's Market this month.
Jessica Ogden, a Tupperware consultant in Fort Frances, says they want to bring more awareness to the district of these types of businesses.
"I just wanted to build my business," says Ogden, "so I thought there were others in the community who wanted to build their businesses as well. There's going to be a range of people there so it's just a way of letting people know we are out there."
Ogden says they'll be using the market every Saturday throughout the month to determine local response.
Downtown Shop Owners Polled
Businesses in Fort Frances' downtown are being asked if they want to participate in a recycling program.
The Fort Frances Business Improvement Association had asked its members being included in curbside pick-up now provided to residential areas.
The town feels its a service businesses should be paying for.
The B.I.A. is now polling businesses, asking if they would support a blue-box program costing them $42-per-year or if the town should be providing the service at no cost or paid out of its yearly taxes.
The Fort Frances Business Improvement Association had asked its members being included in curbside pick-up now provided to residential areas.
The town feels its a service businesses should be paying for.
The B.I.A. is now polling businesses, asking if they would support a blue-box program costing them $42-per-year or if the town should be providing the service at no cost or paid out of its yearly taxes.
Vaccine for Pregnant Women Available
The Northwestern Health Unit has received its first shipment of unadjuvanted vaccine reserved for pregnant women.
The health unit is making the vaccine available only by appointment through its local offices.
Priority will be given to pregnant women without access to a family doctor, those with pre-existing health conditions and healthy pregnant women in the second half of their pregnancy.
Healthy pregnant women in the first half of their pregnancy may be asked to wait until a second shipment arrives.
The health unit is making the vaccine available only by appointment through its local offices.
Priority will be given to pregnant women without access to a family doctor, those with pre-existing health conditions and healthy pregnant women in the second half of their pregnancy.
Healthy pregnant women in the first half of their pregnancy may be asked to wait until a second shipment arrives.
Local Sports for Thursday November 5
Fort Frances Lakers two-game winning streak was stopped in Sioux Lookout last night with a 7-4 loss to the Lakers.
Lakers host the K & A Wolverines Friday.
Lakers host the K & A Wolverines Friday.
Polar Plunge Seeks Participants
The Voyageur Lion's Club wants you to start thinking about jumping in the lake.
The club is again preparing for its annual Polar Plunge and is soliciting people or organizations interested in being a part of the January 1st event.
Club member Val Martindale says getting people interested now can help them raise money for the event.
"We want people to get out their and get their pledges early," says Martindale. "It's not too early to start thinking about it because it will be here before we know it and we don't want people to get caught up thinking about Christmas and forget about it."
Those interested in taking part can contact Jim or Val Martindale.
The club is again preparing for its annual Polar Plunge and is soliciting people or organizations interested in being a part of the January 1st event.
Club member Val Martindale says getting people interested now can help them raise money for the event.
"We want people to get out their and get their pledges early," says Martindale. "It's not too early to start thinking about it because it will be here before we know it and we don't want people to get caught up thinking about Christmas and forget about it."
Those interested in taking part can contact Jim or Val Martindale.
Royal Winter Fair Begins
Northern Ontario will have a strong presence at the Royal Winter Agricultural Fair in Toronto.
The annual event, now in its 87th year, showcases Canada's agricultural industry to consumers and corporate buyers.
The Fair's CEO Bill Bill Duron says the fair always has a large northern Ontario contingent, some of which have enjoyed success as a result.
"A couple of years ago there was a wild rice producer who meet with the Chef of Via Rail," says Duron, "and they signed a two-year contract for his total supply of rice to Via Rail."
The fair opens Friday and runs through to the middle of the month.
The annual event, now in its 87th year, showcases Canada's agricultural industry to consumers and corporate buyers.
The Fair's CEO Bill Bill Duron says the fair always has a large northern Ontario contingent, some of which have enjoyed success as a result.
"A couple of years ago there was a wild rice producer who meet with the Chef of Via Rail," says Duron, "and they signed a two-year contract for his total supply of rice to Via Rail."
The fair opens Friday and runs through to the middle of the month.
Dalton Days?
Civil servants in Ontario may be in for some ''Dalton Days.''
Premier Dalton McGuinty is giving his strongest indication that civil servants may have to take unpaid days off to help eliminate the deficit.
McGuinty told a gathering in Niagara-on-the-Lake the public sector has a duty to help eliminate the 25-billion-dollar deficit.
Former N-D-P premier Bob Rae proposed a similar strategy to deal with a deficit in the early 1990's, which the unions condemned as "Rae Days.''
Premier Dalton McGuinty is giving his strongest indication that civil servants may have to take unpaid days off to help eliminate the deficit.
McGuinty told a gathering in Niagara-on-the-Lake the public sector has a duty to help eliminate the 25-billion-dollar deficit.
Former N-D-P premier Bob Rae proposed a similar strategy to deal with a deficit in the early 1990's, which the unions condemned as "Rae Days.''
Flu Vaccine Diminishing
Some immunization clinics in Ontario may have to close in the next few days because the supply of vaccine is expected to run out.
Health Minister Deb Matthews can't say when each health unit is expected to run dry but says the situation means many in the high priority groups won't get their flu shot for a while.
The federal government is shipping almost two-million doses of the regular vaccine next week, but its not certain how much of that is coming to Ontario.
Health Minister Deb Matthews can't say when each health unit is expected to run dry but says the situation means many in the high priority groups won't get their flu shot for a while.
The federal government is shipping almost two-million doses of the regular vaccine next week, but its not certain how much of that is coming to Ontario.
H1N1 Flu Clinic Update
Residents in the Kenora-Rainy River area seem to be heeding the advice of local health officials in getting their H1N1 flu shot.
Director of Health Protection for the Northwestern Health Unit Arlene Lesenke says numbers for the first week alone exceeded expectations.
"We have in one week delivered 5,800 doses of vaccine," says Lesenke. "This is 50 per cent of the normal total we would immunize in a flu season from November to March. We've done that in one week.
Lesenke says there have been some changes to its flu clinic schedule with local offices offering additional clinics as required.
Director of Health Protection for the Northwestern Health Unit Arlene Lesenke says numbers for the first week alone exceeded expectations.
"We have in one week delivered 5,800 doses of vaccine," says Lesenke. "This is 50 per cent of the normal total we would immunize in a flu season from November to March. We've done that in one week.
Lesenke says there have been some changes to its flu clinic schedule with local offices offering additional clinics as required.
Long Gun Vote Applauded
The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters is applauding a vote in the House of Commons to repeal the Federal Long Gun Registry.
Second reading of a private members bill was passed Wednesday afternoon.
OFAH spokesperson Greg Ferrant says its step in the right direction.
"This is just a step. This is not the end of the road," says Ferrant. "It's a very important watershed in this long campaign around this issue, but there is a legislative process that must still be followed. It will be some time before the bill itself will be passed, but we're very pleased with what has transpired."
The bill still has to go before a commons committee for review, but Ferrant says the legislation seems to have some momentum.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty was among several New Democrats to support the Conservative private members bill.
Rafferty says his vote was based on local input provided through a survey in which 96 per cent of respondents felt the registry should be abolished.
Rafferty says he'll been maintaining his support for the bill when it comes back to the house for a final reading.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Sports for Wednesday November 4
Make it two in a row.
Fort Frances Lakers doubled up the Sioux Lookout Flyers 4-2 at the Ice for Kids Arena last night for their second straight win.
Tyler Stevenson, Jordan Sinclair and Blake Boaz gave the Lakers a 3-nothing first period lead while Byron Katapaytuk sealed the win with an empty net.
The two teams hook up again in Sioux Lookout tonight.
Fort Frances Lakers' Colton Kennedy has been named the SIJHL's Player of the Month for October.
In 11 games during the month, Kennedy had 10 goals and 9 assists.
The Fort Frances Nor-Fab Flames Peewee Girls Rep Team beat the Peewee boys Emo Thunderbolts 3-1 in Emo yesterday.
Myla Angus, Amy Penner and Jessica Coran scored for the Flames.
Robin Vien scored the lone goal for Emo.
And in a late score from Monday, the Cougars, an area women's hockey club, opened their season with a 6-1 win over the Midget Girls Pharmasave Wildcats.
A successful day in the pool for the Falls High School girls swim team.
The Broncos placed first out of four teams at a meet in Mesabi East.
Individuals winners included Monica Hasbargan in the Girls 200 yard I-M, Maggie West in the 50 yard freestyle, Tamera Stouffer in the 100 yard butterfly and Ashley Hasbargen in the 100 yard breaststroke.
The Broncos 200 yard freestyle and 400 yard freestyle relay teams also placed first in their events.
Fort Frances Lakers doubled up the Sioux Lookout Flyers 4-2 at the Ice for Kids Arena last night for their second straight win.
Tyler Stevenson, Jordan Sinclair and Blake Boaz gave the Lakers a 3-nothing first period lead while Byron Katapaytuk sealed the win with an empty net.
The two teams hook up again in Sioux Lookout tonight.
Fort Frances Lakers' Colton Kennedy has been named the SIJHL's Player of the Month for October.
In 11 games during the month, Kennedy had 10 goals and 9 assists.
The Fort Frances Nor-Fab Flames Peewee Girls Rep Team beat the Peewee boys Emo Thunderbolts 3-1 in Emo yesterday.
Myla Angus, Amy Penner and Jessica Coran scored for the Flames.
Robin Vien scored the lone goal for Emo.
And in a late score from Monday, the Cougars, an area women's hockey club, opened their season with a 6-1 win over the Midget Girls Pharmasave Wildcats.
A successful day in the pool for the Falls High School girls swim team.
The Broncos placed first out of four teams at a meet in Mesabi East.
Individuals winners included Monica Hasbargan in the Girls 200 yard I-M, Maggie West in the 50 yard freestyle, Tamera Stouffer in the 100 yard butterfly and Ashley Hasbargen in the 100 yard breaststroke.
The Broncos 200 yard freestyle and 400 yard freestyle relay teams also placed first in their events.
Bear Numbers
Animal control officials in Fort Frances say it appears the bears are heading into their dens to hibernate for the winter.
Only 32 nuisance bears have been reported since June, the most recent on October 18.
Residents are still be being urged not to leave garbage out that could attract bears.
Only 32 nuisance bears have been reported since June, the most recent on October 18.
Residents are still be being urged not to leave garbage out that could attract bears.
Questions Accepted
Voters within Independent School District 361 in Koochiching County have given their blessing to two funding proposals put forward in a referendum yesterday.
Voters overwhelming agreed to extending the current taxing levy for another ten years at the existing rate.
And just over a thousand votes were cast supporting the school district increasing the general education revenue by $70.00 per pupil for school activities and sports.
School officials say it will help lower students fees.
Voters overwhelming agreed to extending the current taxing levy for another ten years at the existing rate.
And just over a thousand votes were cast supporting the school district increasing the general education revenue by $70.00 per pupil for school activities and sports.
School officials say it will help lower students fees.
Video on Demand in School
Video on demand services has become the newest technology available for students and staff with the Rainy River District school Board.
The board's manager of information technology services Stephen Danielson says the service allows staff and students to access educations programs through a computer anywhere their is high speed internet.
"The videos are indexed by subject and grade level as well as being key word searchable for easy access," says Danielson. "Currently the board licenses over 500 educational vdoes chosen by our teachers."
Danielson says there is the ability to expand the number of available videos in the future.
The board's manager of information technology services Stephen Danielson says the service allows staff and students to access educations programs through a computer anywhere their is high speed internet.
"The videos are indexed by subject and grade level as well as being key word searchable for easy access," says Danielson. "Currently the board licenses over 500 educational vdoes chosen by our teachers."
Danielson says there is the ability to expand the number of available videos in the future.
School Work Delayed
Work on the new unnamed school in Fort Frances is a month behind.
Manager of Plant Operations with the Rainy River District School Board Raymond Roy says it was the result of a late shipment of steel.
Roy says the contractor has been working weekends in an attempt to get back on the schedule for a planned September 2010 opening.
Manager of Plant Operations with the Rainy River District School Board Raymond Roy says it was the result of a late shipment of steel.
Roy says the contractor has been working weekends in an attempt to get back on the schedule for a planned September 2010 opening.
Architectural Service Contract Awarded
The Rainy River District School board has awarded North Bay-firm Evans, Bertrand, Hill, Wheeler Architecture a contract for architectural services for renovation of the Education Centre and eventual demolition of the Robert Moore School.
The 164-thousand dollar offer was not the lowest bid, but Superintendent of Finance Laura Mills says the firm ranked hire in criteria the board was looking for.
"Evans, Bertrand, Hill, Wheeler received significantly hirer ratings in project management, cost control and practice mythology," says Hill. "These are things that we're actually scored higher by us. We weighted them higher because they were important to us."
Renovation of the education centre is expected to start in September 2010 with the school being demolished in 2011.
The 164-thousand dollar offer was not the lowest bid, but Superintendent of Finance Laura Mills says the firm ranked hire in criteria the board was looking for.
"Evans, Bertrand, Hill, Wheeler received significantly hirer ratings in project management, cost control and practice mythology," says Hill. "These are things that we're actually scored higher by us. We weighted them higher because they were important to us."
Renovation of the education centre is expected to start in September 2010 with the school being demolished in 2011.
CEP Meetings Planned
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union will be hold meetings in Kenora and Fort Frances next week with former and present AbitibiBowater employees.
Vice-President Kim Ginter says they want to update their membership on how talks with AbitibiBowater and provincial governments have been going on efforts to protect workers pensions.
"We're going to give them a state of affairs on where we are and we're we've been with negotiations that both us and the company agreed to suspend," says Ginter, "and inform people we're we are in meeting with governments."
Monday, union officials met with Ontario Forestry Minister Michael Gravelle.
Flu Update
The province's chief medical officer of health says there have been a total of 33 swine flu-related deaths in Ontario since April.
The number includes two deaths in Thunder Bay.
Medical Health Officer Dr. Arlene King says H1N1 flu activity is higher than is normally seen at the peak of a normal flu season, and also higher than during the first wave of the virus in June.
She says health units are getting better at providing vaccine,and the problems that resulted in long lineups and waits in southern Ontario last week have been addressed.
King says there's no precise tally of how many people have been vaccinated, but it's hoped the number will be 2.2 million by the end of the week.
The number includes two deaths in Thunder Bay.
Medical Health Officer Dr. Arlene King says H1N1 flu activity is higher than is normally seen at the peak of a normal flu season, and also higher than during the first wave of the virus in June.
She says health units are getting better at providing vaccine,and the problems that resulted in long lineups and waits in southern Ontario last week have been addressed.
King says there's no precise tally of how many people have been vaccinated, but it's hoped the number will be 2.2 million by the end of the week.
NWO Agriculture Study
Agriculture is proving to be big business in northwestern Ontario.
A new study found the industry generated more than $62-million in direct farm sales and another $78-million through other farm-related businesses in 2008
Author Don Murray says the study also found farming generating significant employment in the area.
"Every on farm job that its generating is sustaining between 1 and 2 in the wider economy,"says Murray. "and every dollar in farm gate sales is generating about $1.30 in sales beyond the farm gate. It does have an important multiplier effect and speaks to the importance of promoting and ensuring the government programs and policies are in place to support the growth of agriculture."
In the Rainy River district, agriculture generated more than $13-million in direct farm sales, creating over 300 jobs.
A new study found the industry generated more than $62-million in direct farm sales and another $78-million through other farm-related businesses in 2008
Author Don Murray says the study also found farming generating significant employment in the area.
"Every on farm job that its generating is sustaining between 1 and 2 in the wider economy,"says Murray. "and every dollar in farm gate sales is generating about $1.30 in sales beyond the farm gate. It does have an important multiplier effect and speaks to the importance of promoting and ensuring the government programs and policies are in place to support the growth of agriculture."
In the Rainy River district, agriculture generated more than $13-million in direct farm sales, creating over 300 jobs.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Sports for Tuesday November 3
Fort Frances Lakers will look for their first home win of the season tonight as they host the Sioux Lookout Flyers in a make-up game from September 29.
Game time is 7:30 at the Ice for Kids Arena.
In atom girls hockey yesterday, Rolling Lake Lighting beat Esso 5-2.
Annalise Hayes scored a pair for the Lightning with singles from Cassidy Frier, Shannon Bird and Jenna Clendenning.
Emma Nova had both goals for Esso.
In Bantam girls hockey last night, BDO Dunwoody defeated Energy Fitness 3-1.
BDO goal scorers were Katie Sinclair with 2 and Danielle Jackson 1 and for Energy Jessica Robinson.
Sunday, the Norfab Flames beat the Energy Wild 3 - 2 on a game winning goal by Madyson Weir.
There will be area representation at a showcase hockey tournament in New Hope Minnesota this weekend.
The Bauer National Invitational Tournament usually attracts a lot of attention from NHL and college scouts.
Former Fort Frances Muskies Joe Basaraba will be playing in the tournament as member of Shattuck's St. Mary's.
International Falls Broncos defenceman Willie Corrin will suit up for Minnesota's Red team, comprised of high school hockey players from across the northern part of the state.
Game time is 7:30 at the Ice for Kids Arena.
In atom girls hockey yesterday, Rolling Lake Lighting beat Esso 5-2.
Annalise Hayes scored a pair for the Lightning with singles from Cassidy Frier, Shannon Bird and Jenna Clendenning.
Emma Nova had both goals for Esso.
In Bantam girls hockey last night, BDO Dunwoody defeated Energy Fitness 3-1.
BDO goal scorers were Katie Sinclair with 2 and Danielle Jackson 1 and for Energy Jessica Robinson.
Sunday, the Norfab Flames beat the Energy Wild 3 - 2 on a game winning goal by Madyson Weir.
There will be area representation at a showcase hockey tournament in New Hope Minnesota this weekend.
The Bauer National Invitational Tournament usually attracts a lot of attention from NHL and college scouts.
Former Fort Frances Muskies Joe Basaraba will be playing in the tournament as member of Shattuck's St. Mary's.
International Falls Broncos defenceman Willie Corrin will suit up for Minnesota's Red team, comprised of high school hockey players from across the northern part of the state.
Green Plates Selected
Ontario residents have made their choice for a new vehicle licence plate that will encourage consumers to switch to environmentally friendly cars and trucks.
The provincial government announced the plate will have green lettering on a white background with the picture of a trillium in the middle.
It was selected from four choices in an online vote that ran from July to October, and received nearly half of the 14-thousand votes.
The provincial government announced the plate will have green lettering on a white background with the picture of a trillium in the middle.
It was selected from four choices in an online vote that ran from July to October, and received nearly half of the 14-thousand votes.
Hampton Seeks Severance Questions
Criticism in the legislature yesterday over the lack of severance pay given to employees with the Buchanan Group of Companies.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton told the house while the forest company received millions of dollars from the government, none of it went to lay-off workers.
"There's something strange about this," said Hampton, "because while almost 2,000 workers have been denied the severance pay and termination pay they're entitled to under Ontario's laws, the Buchanan Group of Companies has done very well under the McGuinty Liberals: more than $30 million for road building; $22.5 million for the Buchanan company in Terrace Bay; a further $4.8 million to Terrace Bay Pulp; $26 million in deferred stumpage fees; $600,000 for Long Lake Forest Products. In all, the McGuinty government has handed out $80 million to the Buchanan Group of Companies. Did anybody-did you-call the Buchanan Group of Companies and say, "Some of this money should go to the workers to ensure that they're treated fairly"?"
Forestry Minister Michael Gravelle did not say if the government would force the company to comply with provincial laws, but says it is working with those impacted.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton told the house while the forest company received millions of dollars from the government, none of it went to lay-off workers.
"There's something strange about this," said Hampton, "because while almost 2,000 workers have been denied the severance pay and termination pay they're entitled to under Ontario's laws, the Buchanan Group of Companies has done very well under the McGuinty Liberals: more than $30 million for road building; $22.5 million for the Buchanan company in Terrace Bay; a further $4.8 million to Terrace Bay Pulp; $26 million in deferred stumpage fees; $600,000 for Long Lake Forest Products. In all, the McGuinty government has handed out $80 million to the Buchanan Group of Companies. Did anybody-did you-call the Buchanan Group of Companies and say, "Some of this money should go to the workers to ensure that they're treated fairly"?"
Forestry Minister Michael Gravelle did not say if the government would force the company to comply with provincial laws, but says it is working with those impacted.
Building Permits Issued in Fort Frances
Almost $300-thousand dollars in building permits were issued by the town of Fort Frances during the months of August and September.
Three projects accounted for more than half that total.
They include the installation of a portable classroom at J.W. Walker School costing $75-thousand, the demolition and construction of a building on First Street at $65-thousand and the addition to a home on Portage Avenue coming in at $40-thousand.
Three projects accounted for more than half that total.
They include the installation of a portable classroom at J.W. Walker School costing $75-thousand, the demolition and construction of a building on First Street at $65-thousand and the addition to a home on Portage Avenue coming in at $40-thousand.
New Fire Protection Offer
The city of International Falls is making another offer to provide fire protection services to rural areas surrounding the city.
It comes as news was received that the Rural Fire Protection Association announced plans to form its own fire department.
But Mayor Shawn Mason says the decision is not the right move to be making.
"At a time when our area is struggling and we need to look at creating efficiencies I think that creating or allowing the creation of another fire department contradicts collaboration," says Mason."
The city's now offered a $125-thousand deal covering up to 6 years, down from a $147-thousand 5-year deal put forward two weeks ago.
Mason says if the offer is not accepted, residents in the outlying areas should be polled on what service they would prefer
It comes as news was received that the Rural Fire Protection Association announced plans to form its own fire department.
But Mayor Shawn Mason says the decision is not the right move to be making.
"At a time when our area is struggling and we need to look at creating efficiencies I think that creating or allowing the creation of another fire department contradicts collaboration," says Mason."
The city's now offered a $125-thousand deal covering up to 6 years, down from a $147-thousand 5-year deal put forward two weeks ago.
Mason says if the offer is not accepted, residents in the outlying areas should be polled on what service they would prefer
Turnback Proposal Updated
The Minnesota Department of Transportation has given International Falls a commitment that funding connected to a highway turnback proposal to Koochiching County will remain in place for at least to the end of the year.
The city has yet to make a decision regarding State plans to turn a portion of Highway 332 over to the county because of concerns it may lead to a by-pass.
MNDOT's Assistant Director of Engineering Walter Leu told council last night the 3-million dollars associated with proposal will be there until the city makes a decision.
"If you could give us an answer by the first of the year, yes," said Leu. "We'll just keep that in reserve and just add it to the bill if its favourable."
Mayor Shawn Mason says the city does not want to put the project and funding in jeopardy, but wants to find a way of resolving its concerns.
The city has yet to make a decision regarding State plans to turn a portion of Highway 332 over to the county because of concerns it may lead to a by-pass.
MNDOT's Assistant Director of Engineering Walter Leu told council last night the 3-million dollars associated with proposal will be there until the city makes a decision.
"If you could give us an answer by the first of the year, yes," said Leu. "We'll just keep that in reserve and just add it to the bill if its favourable."
Mayor Shawn Mason says the city does not want to put the project and funding in jeopardy, but wants to find a way of resolving its concerns.
Ontario Flu Update
Health Minister Deb Matthews says things are better at swine flu clinics this week.
Matthews says she's received reports waiting times have been considerably reduced compared to last week, and in some places there's no wait at all.
She says health officials are aiming to provide swine flu shots to 2.2 million people by the end of this week.
The minister adds the number of flu shot clinics across the province has doubled from 50 to 100.
Matthews says she's received reports waiting times have been considerably reduced compared to last week, and in some places there's no wait at all.
She says health officials are aiming to provide swine flu shots to 2.2 million people by the end of this week.
The minister adds the number of flu shot clinics across the province has doubled from 50 to 100.
Plenty of Vaccine Available
The Northwestern Health Unit says there will be enough H1N1 vaccine for anyone who wants the shot in its area.
But the focus locally is administering the shot to those at the greatest risk at contracting the flu virus.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. James Arthurs says its not possible to immunize everyone over the new few weeks, and needs the public's support to ensure those who are 5 years old or under, under 65 with chronic health conditions and health care workers get the shot first.
But the focus locally is administering the shot to those at the greatest risk at contracting the flu virus.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. James Arthurs says its not possible to immunize everyone over the new few weeks, and needs the public's support to ensure those who are 5 years old or under, under 65 with chronic health conditions and health care workers get the shot first.
H1N1 Deaths in Northwestern Ontario
The H1N1 flu virus has claimed its first lives in northwestern Ontario.
The Thunder Bay District Health Unit says two Thunder Bay residents - a man and a woman - have died of the flu, but both had underlying health conditions.
A Health unit representative wouldn't say exactly when the deaths took place, only saying they occurred over the past week.'
There have also been reports circulated of a Dryden man dieing as a result of the flu, but the Northwestern Health Unit says those reports are no true.
The Thunder Bay District Health Unit says two Thunder Bay residents - a man and a woman - have died of the flu, but both had underlying health conditions.
A Health unit representative wouldn't say exactly when the deaths took place, only saying they occurred over the past week.'
There have also been reports circulated of a Dryden man dieing as a result of the flu, but the Northwestern Health Unit says those reports are no true.
Monday, November 2, 2009
School Board Puts Plan in Place
The Rainy River District School Board says it's taking preventative measures of its own in dealing with the H1N1 flu virus in its schools.
It includes posting information in its schools to remind students and staff about proper hand-washing practices and safe cough etiquette.
It's also ensuring thorough and effective routine cleaning and disinfecting practices with increased emphasis on high contact and high contamination areas.
The board is also telling students and staff who are sick to stay home until they get better.
It includes posting information in its schools to remind students and staff about proper hand-washing practices and safe cough etiquette.
It's also ensuring thorough and effective routine cleaning and disinfecting practices with increased emphasis on high contact and high contamination areas.
The board is also telling students and staff who are sick to stay home until they get better.
Visitor Restriction at Falls Hospital
Individuals under the age of 18 are being prohibited from visiting Rainy River Medical Centre in the Falls unless they need medical care.
CEO Brian Long says the temporary restriction is aimed at curbing the spread of both the seasonal and H1N1 flu at its facility.
Long says visitor restrictions are in line with policies at other health care organizations throughout the state.
Meantime, the Minnesota Department of Health has set up a free phone-based flu-line for people with questions about the flu and whether they should receive medical aid.
That number is 1-866-259-4655 and is staffed 24-hours a day.
CEO Brian Long says the temporary restriction is aimed at curbing the spread of both the seasonal and H1N1 flu at its facility.
Long says visitor restrictions are in line with policies at other health care organizations throughout the state.
Meantime, the Minnesota Department of Health has set up a free phone-based flu-line for people with questions about the flu and whether they should receive medical aid.
That number is 1-866-259-4655 and is staffed 24-hours a day.
More H1N1 Flu Clinics Announced
The Northwestern Health Unit has added at least one more clinic for those people wanting the H1N1 vaccine.
But health officials says the walk-in clinic at the Fort Frances office will only accept those considered in the high-risk categories,
They include children between the ages of six months and five years, people under the age of 65 with chronic health condition or health care workers.
The clinic will run from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. this afternoon.
But health officials says the walk-in clinic at the Fort Frances office will only accept those considered in the high-risk categories,
They include children between the ages of six months and five years, people under the age of 65 with chronic health condition or health care workers.
The clinic will run from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. this afternoon.
Safe Crossing Explained
School children in Fort Frances will get a lesson today about safety around a rail crossing.
CN Police, along with the OPP, will be taking Grade 4, 5 and 6 students at J.W. Walker School to the McIrvine Road crossing as part of Safe Crossing Week.
Constable Pete LeDrew says they want students to learn how and when to cross safely.
"We're letting them know to listen for the warning bells and watch for the flashing lights," says LeDrew, "if a train is going by, the proper distance to stand away, the ten giant steps, never try to cross the tracks if a train is coming.
LeDrew says says they're also pointing out where the safe and legal crossings are in Fort Frances as well.
A similiar lesson will be given to students at St. Michael's School later this week.
CN Police, along with the OPP, will be taking Grade 4, 5 and 6 students at J.W. Walker School to the McIrvine Road crossing as part of Safe Crossing Week.
Constable Pete LeDrew says they want students to learn how and when to cross safely.
"We're letting them know to listen for the warning bells and watch for the flashing lights," says LeDrew, "if a train is going by, the proper distance to stand away, the ten giant steps, never try to cross the tracks if a train is coming.
LeDrew says says they're also pointing out where the safe and legal crossings are in Fort Frances as well.
A similiar lesson will be given to students at St. Michael's School later this week.
DriveTest Talks Resume
Talks resumed on the weekend in Toronto aimed at ending the strike by Ontario DriveTest employees.
The workers, including those in Fort Frances who conduct driver's licence tests, walked out August 23, with job security being the key issue.
DriveTest estimates that four-thousand people per day have not been able to obtain their driver's licence since the workers went on strike.
The workers, including those in Fort Frances who conduct driver's licence tests, walked out August 23, with job security being the key issue.
DriveTest estimates that four-thousand people per day have not been able to obtain their driver's licence since the workers went on strike.
Auto Insurance Changes Coming
Ontario's Finance Minister Dwight Duncan is reportedly proposing 40 different regulation changes today for auto insurance in an effort to keep the rates down.
The government's goal is to give consumers more options and flexibility to shop for lower rates while staying protected.
The changes come after reports that say some drivers could face rate hikes well into the double digits.
The government's goal is to give consumers more options and flexibility to shop for lower rates while staying protected.
The changes come after reports that say some drivers could face rate hikes well into the double digits.
Boston Pizza Opens
The newest restaurant in Fort Frances opens its doors to the public for the first time today.
Boston Pizza held official opening ceremonies Friday in which staff donated five-thousand dollars in tips earned during practice sessions to the Salvation Army and United Native Friendship Centre food banks.
Franchisee holder Dale Fortes is excited about finally opening.
"I'm feeling very excited," says Fortes. "It's just nice to finally get to this point in the process. We've enjoyed every minute of the process so far and look forwarding to opening our doors to Fort Frances and the immediate area."
A total of one-hundred people have been hired as servers, cooks and other position.
Boston Pizza held official opening ceremonies Friday in which staff donated five-thousand dollars in tips earned during practice sessions to the Salvation Army and United Native Friendship Centre food banks.
Franchisee holder Dale Fortes is excited about finally opening.
"I'm feeling very excited," says Fortes. "It's just nice to finally get to this point in the process. We've enjoyed every minute of the process so far and look forwarding to opening our doors to Fort Frances and the immediate area."
A total of one-hundred people have been hired as servers, cooks and other position.
Forest Fire Season Ends
2009 will go into the books as one of the quietest forest fire seasons on record in northwestern Ontario.
The fire season wrapped up on Saturday with just 194 forest fires reported.
Fire Information officer Debbie McLean says despite two very slow back-to-back fire years, the Ministry of Natural Resources won't be making any changes to its fire fighting plans for next year.
"As an emergency response organization we do have to be prepared," says McLean, "regardless if whether we're expecting a slow or busy fire season. The fact is that we did have 194 fires. Of those over 100 were caused by human activity. There's always that risk every fire season even in a slow fire season that every fire carries the potential of being life threatening."
McLean adds while there were fewer forest fires this year over last, total area burned was up considerably.
The fire season wrapped up on Saturday with just 194 forest fires reported.
Fire Information officer Debbie McLean says despite two very slow back-to-back fire years, the Ministry of Natural Resources won't be making any changes to its fire fighting plans for next year.
"As an emergency response organization we do have to be prepared," says McLean, "regardless if whether we're expecting a slow or busy fire season. The fact is that we did have 194 fires. Of those over 100 were caused by human activity. There's always that risk every fire season even in a slow fire season that every fire carries the potential of being life threatening."
McLean adds while there were fewer forest fires this year over last, total area burned was up considerably.
Riverside Issues Visitor Reminder
Riverside Health Care Facilities has again issued a public reminder to those thinking of visiting its district hospitals.
Riverside is asking patients to its emergency department to not bring an escort unless the patient is a child or someone who needs the assistance.
Hospitals in Emo, Rainy River and Fort Frances are also restricting those under the age of 18 and anyone with flu-like symptoms from visiting.
Riverside is asking patients to its emergency department to not bring an escort unless the patient is a child or someone who needs the assistance.
Hospitals in Emo, Rainy River and Fort Frances are also restricting those under the age of 18 and anyone with flu-like symptoms from visiting.
Ontario Flu Update
Healthy people in Ontario who want the H-1-N-1 vaccinewill have to go to the back of the line for a while still.
The priority for vaccinations is still the high risk group andhealth officials say they should be getting their needles faster nowthat twice as many clinics are going to be opened and with longerhours.
Dr. Arlene King, the province's chief medical officer, says there will now be 100 clinics across the province doling out the vaccinations and the medicine will be also be shipped to some doctors offices.
King says the flu is already above the highest rate seen in the past few years.
There have been 31 reported deaths from H-1-N-1 so far in Ontario, including three in the past week.
The high priority group includes pregnant women, children over six months but under five, health-care workers, people under 65 with health conditions and those in isolated communities.
King believes everyone in the province who wants the vaccine will have it -- by Christmas.
The priority for vaccinations is still the high risk group andhealth officials say they should be getting their needles faster nowthat twice as many clinics are going to be opened and with longerhours.
Dr. Arlene King, the province's chief medical officer, says there will now be 100 clinics across the province doling out the vaccinations and the medicine will be also be shipped to some doctors offices.
King says the flu is already above the highest rate seen in the past few years.
There have been 31 reported deaths from H-1-N-1 so far in Ontario, including three in the past week.
The high priority group includes pregnant women, children over six months but under five, health-care workers, people under 65 with health conditions and those in isolated communities.
King believes everyone in the province who wants the vaccine will have it -- by Christmas.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Challenge Met
The challenge to get women over the age of 50 to have a mammogram is being hailed a success.
The Ontario Breast Screening Program sought out 150 women over 50 to visit its sites in Kenora, Thunder Bay and Fort Frances as part of a one-day breast screening promotion.
The OBSP says over 175 women were screened during the Monday's event.
The Ontario Breast Screening Program sought out 150 women over 50 to visit its sites in Kenora, Thunder Bay and Fort Frances as part of a one-day breast screening promotion.
The OBSP says over 175 women were screened during the Monday's event.
Awards Night Delayed
The Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce is moving its annual business awards celebration to a new date.
The event which is normally held in late October or early November is now being planned for early in the new year.
Chamber Manager Anthony Mason says because of his hiring in September, it was felt there wasn't enough time to prepare for a fall event.
Details of when the event will be held are expected to be released later next month.
The event which is normally held in late October or early November is now being planned for early in the new year.
Chamber Manager Anthony Mason says because of his hiring in September, it was felt there wasn't enough time to prepare for a fall event.
Details of when the event will be held are expected to be released later next month.
Farmers' Market Turns 25
Vendors and visitors to the Clover Valley Farmers Market will be celebrating its 25th anniversary this weekend.
The market's summer season comes to a close Saturday.
Deb Cornell of Rainy River Elk Company, and one of the market's shareholders, says the market has helped local farmers.
"A lot of farmers have market their products through Clover Valley Farmers' Market," says Cornell, "and they've had a committed customer base. We have got a lot of people who do want local products who want to support local farmers and appreciate the good products that are produced locally."
As part of the celebrations, the market will host a luncheon of local foods beginning at 10 a.m. tomorrow.
The market's summer season comes to a close Saturday.
Deb Cornell of Rainy River Elk Company, and one of the market's shareholders, says the market has helped local farmers.
"A lot of farmers have market their products through Clover Valley Farmers' Market," says Cornell, "and they've had a committed customer base. We have got a lot of people who do want local products who want to support local farmers and appreciate the good products that are produced locally."
As part of the celebrations, the market will host a luncheon of local foods beginning at 10 a.m. tomorrow.
Police Patroling Gate Night
Provincial police will be out in force tonight to ensure so-called Gate night activities are kept to a minimum.
Typically police receive a number of calls regarding acts of mischief on the night before Halloween.
Constable Anne McCoy says whether its eggs tossed at homes or soap on the window, its still a crime.
"We're aware of that," says McCoy, "that people do go out and make these choices. But we need to come together as a community and we need to keep our eyes and ears open and know who's in our community and if they are acting suspicious."
McCoy says if anyone sees anything suspicious in their neighbourhoods call police.
Typically police receive a number of calls regarding acts of mischief on the night before Halloween.
Constable Anne McCoy says whether its eggs tossed at homes or soap on the window, its still a crime.
"We're aware of that," says McCoy, "that people do go out and make these choices. But we need to come together as a community and we need to keep our eyes and ears open and know who's in our community and if they are acting suspicious."
McCoy says if anyone sees anything suspicious in their neighbourhoods call police.
Couchiching Clinic Today
The Couchiching First Nations Health Care Centre will be holding an H1N1 vaccine clinic today.
It happens at the "Seniors Complex" on Couchiching for residents aged 55 and older ONLY.
The clinic is from 1 p.m. until 3:30 p.m.
It happens at the "Seniors Complex" on Couchiching for residents aged 55 and older ONLY.
The clinic is from 1 p.m. until 3:30 p.m.
Health Officials Appeal
Health officials are urging people to be patient and to let those in priority groups get their swine flu shots first.
Chief medical officer of health Dr. Arlene King and Health Minister Deb Matthews made the appeal at a news conference yesterday.
It comes as clinics, mostly in southern Ontario, have been swamped this week, and two Toronto clinics had to close their lineups.
Among those reporting larger-than-expected lineups was a clinic in Owen Sound, where people started showing up at 7:30 in the morning.
King and Matthews both say there will be enough vaccine for everyone who wants it.
Chief medical officer of health Dr. Arlene King and Health Minister Deb Matthews made the appeal at a news conference yesterday.
It comes as clinics, mostly in southern Ontario, have been swamped this week, and two Toronto clinics had to close their lineups.
Among those reporting larger-than-expected lineups was a clinic in Owen Sound, where people started showing up at 7:30 in the morning.
King and Matthews both say there will be enough vaccine for everyone who wants it.
Local Clinics Well Attended
Residents in northwestern Ontario are taking advantage of the H1N1 flu clinics being offered by the Northwestern Health Unit.
Those clinics began this week and will run through November.
Director of Health Protection Arlene Lasinki says while exact numbers have not yet been compiled, attendance has been brisk.
"There's a lot of interest in the H1N1 vaccine," says Lasinski, "and I think it's great that people are taking advantage of getting that vaccine."
Lasinski says unlike southern Ontario clinics that are experiencing long waits, health unit staff have been able to accommodate local demands for the H1N1 shot quiet effectively.
Those clinics began this week and will run through November.
Director of Health Protection Arlene Lasinki says while exact numbers have not yet been compiled, attendance has been brisk.
"There's a lot of interest in the H1N1 vaccine," says Lasinski, "and I think it's great that people are taking advantage of getting that vaccine."
Lasinski says unlike southern Ontario clinics that are experiencing long waits, health unit staff have been able to accommodate local demands for the H1N1 shot quiet effectively.
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