The House of Commons has voted overwhelmingly in favour of a harmonized sales tax for Ontario and British Columbia.
Even though the bill was controversial -- and has angered many --the three biggest federal parties supported it.
Only the NDP voted against it.
The Ontario legislature passed its own legislation yesterday and B.C. is expected to follow suit early in the new year.
Next July 1st, the two provinces will combine their retails sales tax with the G-S-T to form the HST.
It will be 12 per cent in B-C, and 13 per cent in Ontario.
Critics denounce the combined tax as a cash grab.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
State Aid Stays Same
International Falls won't see any further decrease in state aid this month, but it's not getting any more either.
Governor Tim Pawlenty announced earlier this week he had no plans to change the amount of money given to Minnesota cities and counties.
Administrator Rod Otterness says the amount of money expected will still be smaller than usual.
"He had earlier announced that he would be reducing our payments by $138-thousand in 2009," says Otterness. "That would be 69-thousand in our July cheque and $69-thousand in our December cheque and we are still loosing that amount of money."
The city is now looking at regaining the shortfall in funding from the past two years of cuts with a projected 17 per cent hike in taxes.
Governor Tim Pawlenty announced earlier this week he had no plans to change the amount of money given to Minnesota cities and counties.
Administrator Rod Otterness says the amount of money expected will still be smaller than usual.
"He had earlier announced that he would be reducing our payments by $138-thousand in 2009," says Otterness. "That would be 69-thousand in our July cheque and $69-thousand in our December cheque and we are still loosing that amount of money."
The city is now looking at regaining the shortfall in funding from the past two years of cuts with a projected 17 per cent hike in taxes.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Kenora Council Backing Pensions
Kenora City Council is throwing its support behind a resolution calling on the federal and provincial levels of government to work with AbitibiBowater and its unions to protect employee pensions.
The union wants to set up a trust fund to protect the pensions of some 29 thousand current and retired workers.
AbitibiBowater is currently under bankruptcy protection, but the Communication, Energy and Paperworkers union is worried that workers could lose up to 27 percent of their pensions if the company goes broke.
The resolution suggests that pension income reductions will have a negative impact on National, provincial and municipal economies.
The union wants to set up a trust fund to protect the pensions of some 29 thousand current and retired workers.
AbitibiBowater is currently under bankruptcy protection, but the Communication, Energy and Paperworkers union is worried that workers could lose up to 27 percent of their pensions if the company goes broke.
The resolution suggests that pension income reductions will have a negative impact on National, provincial and municipal economies.
Strobes for Buses
The visibility of school buses operating in the Rainy River district is being enhanced.
Buses are being equipped with strobe lights, made possible through funding acquired by Safe Communities Rainy River District and C-N Rail.
Local Iron Range Bus Lines manager Terry Higgins supports their use.
"It's definitely beneficial," says Higgins. "Anytime you can increase the visibility of a vehicle carrying children it's definitely a plus."
Local bus operators are responsible for the installation of the new safety feature, which Higgins says takes only a couple of hours to complete.
Buses are being equipped with strobe lights, made possible through funding acquired by Safe Communities Rainy River District and C-N Rail.
Local Iron Range Bus Lines manager Terry Higgins supports their use.
"It's definitely beneficial," says Higgins. "Anytime you can increase the visibility of a vehicle carrying children it's definitely a plus."
Local bus operators are responsible for the installation of the new safety feature, which Higgins says takes only a couple of hours to complete.
Dog Bites Cop
OPP in Marathon were forced to shoot a pit bull-like dog after it bit down on an officer's leg.
But police say it kept on attacking, even though it was shot in the spine.
The officer was treated and released from hospital and the dog was later put down in Thunder Bay.
But police say it kept on attacking, even though it was shot in the spine.
The officer was treated and released from hospital and the dog was later put down in Thunder Bay.
Fire Kills Two
More tragedy in the remote community of Pikangikum, north of Red Lake.
Two girls, a 3-year-old and a 5-year-old, were killed in a house fire that occurred last Friday.
Band officials stated yesterday that their mother, Victoria Quill suffered severe burns and smoke inhalation, when she attempted to rescue the two children.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Two girls, a 3-year-old and a 5-year-old, were killed in a house fire that occurred last Friday.
Band officials stated yesterday that their mother, Victoria Quill suffered severe burns and smoke inhalation, when she attempted to rescue the two children.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
RIDE Stats Released
The first week of the Ontario Provincial Police's Festive Ride program has resulted in at least one driver being charged with impaired driving in the Rainy River district.
More than 23-hundred vehicles were checked between November 29 and December 4.
Police did charge 14 people for other liquor license and highway traffic acts violations during the week.
There were also 16 motor vehicle accidents, three resulting in personal injury.
More than 23-hundred vehicles were checked between November 29 and December 4.
Police did charge 14 people for other liquor license and highway traffic acts violations during the week.
There were also 16 motor vehicle accidents, three resulting in personal injury.
Police Pursuit in Fort Frances
A young person faces a number of charges following an incident early Sunday morning that resulted in an OPP pursuit through Fort Frances and damages to two police vehicles.
It began when police attempted to pull over a vehicle whose driver was seen not wearing a seatbelt.
The driver refused to stop, resulting the chase, eventually involving two police vehicles.
The chase came to a dead end road at Pither's Point Park where the suspect vehicle turned around and rammed one of the cruisers at high speed.
An officer was forced to jump out of the way to avoid being hit.
A short time later, another police vehicle was struck on Mowat Avenue before police were able to partially disable to suspect's vehicle into a snowbank on Front Street.
As officers attempted to remove the driver and two occupants, the driver tried to drive away, dragging two officers a short distance before the vehicle was again stopped.
A brief foot chase then ensued before all three were arrested.
One person, whose name or age were not released, appeared in court yesterday on three counts of assaulting a peace officer, two counts of mischief, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, and flight from a police officer.
Police further charges are pending.
It began when police attempted to pull over a vehicle whose driver was seen not wearing a seatbelt.
The driver refused to stop, resulting the chase, eventually involving two police vehicles.
The chase came to a dead end road at Pither's Point Park where the suspect vehicle turned around and rammed one of the cruisers at high speed.
An officer was forced to jump out of the way to avoid being hit.
A short time later, another police vehicle was struck on Mowat Avenue before police were able to partially disable to suspect's vehicle into a snowbank on Front Street.
As officers attempted to remove the driver and two occupants, the driver tried to drive away, dragging two officers a short distance before the vehicle was again stopped.
A brief foot chase then ensued before all three were arrested.
One person, whose name or age were not released, appeared in court yesterday on three counts of assaulting a peace officer, two counts of mischief, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, and flight from a police officer.
Police further charges are pending.
Local Sports for Tuesday December 8
Fort Frances and International Falls renew rivalries in girls hockey tonight.
The Muskies and Broncos will hook up for the second time in less than a week at the Ice for Kids Arena beginning at 7:15.
Fans are being encouraged to bring a teddy bear to throw to the ice when the Muskies score their first goal.
Meantime the Broncos boys hockey team will host Eveleth-Gilbert - 7:30 at Bronco Arena
Broncos girls basketball team dropped at 64-54 decision to the Lake of the Woods Bears at the Falls High School last night.
Broncos are now 1 and 2 on the season.
Broncos boys team begins its schedule tonight with a home game against Eveleth-Gilbert - 7:30 at Falls High School.
And the Broncos boys swim and dive team also kick of its season with competition in Hibbing this afternoon.
Fort Frances Leafs under-14 girls team claimed third place at a tournament in Superior, Wisconsin on the weekend with a 5-1 decision over Duluth.
Shelby Rae paced the Leafs with a pair of goals.
Katie Sinclair, Shelby Tymkin Taylor Hazel got the others.
The team travels to Thunder Bay for another tournament his coming weekend.
A successful weekend for members of the Sunset Country Squash Club in Thunder Bay on the weekend.
Jason Kabel won the A-side consolation title.
Annis Seid won the B-side while Bryon Skirten capture the D-side event
Angel McCormack took the D-side consolation while Mary Beth Tkachuk earned a berth to the C-side finals.
The Muskies and Broncos will hook up for the second time in less than a week at the Ice for Kids Arena beginning at 7:15.
Fans are being encouraged to bring a teddy bear to throw to the ice when the Muskies score their first goal.
Meantime the Broncos boys hockey team will host Eveleth-Gilbert - 7:30 at Bronco Arena
Broncos girls basketball team dropped at 64-54 decision to the Lake of the Woods Bears at the Falls High School last night.
Broncos are now 1 and 2 on the season.
Broncos boys team begins its schedule tonight with a home game against Eveleth-Gilbert - 7:30 at Falls High School.
And the Broncos boys swim and dive team also kick of its season with competition in Hibbing this afternoon.
Fort Frances Leafs under-14 girls team claimed third place at a tournament in Superior, Wisconsin on the weekend with a 5-1 decision over Duluth.
Shelby Rae paced the Leafs with a pair of goals.
Katie Sinclair, Shelby Tymkin Taylor Hazel got the others.
The team travels to Thunder Bay for another tournament his coming weekend.
A successful weekend for members of the Sunset Country Squash Club in Thunder Bay on the weekend.
Jason Kabel won the A-side consolation title.
Annis Seid won the B-side while Bryon Skirten capture the D-side event
Angel McCormack took the D-side consolation while Mary Beth Tkachuk earned a berth to the C-side finals.
Auditor Report Released
The opposition parties say the latest report from Ontario's auditor general shows the Liberal government is doing a poor job of managing taxpayers' money.
The auditor found the Ministry of Social Services isn't very good at determining who is eligible for welfare and disability supports,and has overpaid $1.2 billion.
Progressive Conservative Leader Tim Hudak says it's clear the Liberals have ``lost sight of the ball'' when there are such``exorbitant overpayments'' for social assistance benefits.
He says there's a culture in government that seems to believe taxpayer dollars ``are their own to spend as they see fit.''
NDP Leader Andrea Horwath is concerned with the auditor's findings that many bridges in Ontario are not being inspected as often as they should be.
Horwath says the auditor's report shows the government's attitude towards public safety is "sloppy at best.''
The auditor also found every member of some families on social assistance are diagnosed with identical, multiple medical conditions so each can receive the maximum dietary allowance of 250 dollars a month.
He says some families get about 50-thousand dollars a year, tax free, from social assistance and the dietary supplements.
The auditor found the Ministry of Social Services isn't very good at determining who is eligible for welfare and disability supports,and has overpaid $1.2 billion.
Progressive Conservative Leader Tim Hudak says it's clear the Liberals have ``lost sight of the ball'' when there are such``exorbitant overpayments'' for social assistance benefits.
He says there's a culture in government that seems to believe taxpayer dollars ``are their own to spend as they see fit.''
NDP Leader Andrea Horwath is concerned with the auditor's findings that many bridges in Ontario are not being inspected as often as they should be.
Horwath says the auditor's report shows the government's attitude towards public safety is "sloppy at best.''
The auditor also found every member of some families on social assistance are diagnosed with identical, multiple medical conditions so each can receive the maximum dietary allowance of 250 dollars a month.
He says some families get about 50-thousand dollars a year, tax free, from social assistance and the dietary supplements.
Liberals End HST Hearings
Ontario New Democrats are accusing the Liberals of shutting down a legislative committee discussing the controversial sales tax merger.
The committee was considering amendments to a bill to harmonize the eight per cent provincial sales tax with the five per cent GST.
A statement from the NDP says the committee was shut down Monday night when Liberals "walked off the job and refused to return.''
The committee was considering amendments to a bill to harmonize the eight per cent provincial sales tax with the five per cent GST.
A statement from the NDP says the committee was shut down Monday night when Liberals "walked off the job and refused to return.''
Stay Off the Ice
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is warning parents to keep their children off the thin ice that's now forming across much of the state.
As of Monday, no ice in the state was consistently four inches thick, which is the minimum recommended to support the weight of a person.
Tim Smalley of the DNR says conservation officers report that some people are starting to tiptoe out onto a few frozen ponds - something he says is not a good idea.
As of Monday, no ice in the state was consistently four inches thick, which is the minimum recommended to support the weight of a person.
Tim Smalley of the DNR says conservation officers report that some people are starting to tiptoe out onto a few frozen ponds - something he says is not a good idea.
Amendments Killed Trees
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton is lashing out at the McGuinty Liberals for claims the introduction of a half-a-million opposition amendments towards the HST has hurt the environment.
Because rules require the amendments to be put on paper and reproduced, the Liberals says its cost taxpayers 250-thousand dollar and killed 620 trees.
Hampton calls the Liberals claims as silly.
"This nonsense about saying you're wasting money or you're wasting trees is absurd," says Hampton. "It's just more of the silliness that we've seen at Queens Park over the past two weeks."
But Liberal MPP Yasir Naqvi says the opposition should have been more responsible in its actions.
Because rules require the amendments to be put on paper and reproduced, the Liberals says its cost taxpayers 250-thousand dollar and killed 620 trees.
Hampton calls the Liberals claims as silly.
"This nonsense about saying you're wasting money or you're wasting trees is absurd," says Hampton. "It's just more of the silliness that we've seen at Queens Park over the past two weeks."
But Liberal MPP Yasir Naqvi says the opposition should have been more responsible in its actions.
Grant Money Doled Out
Several organizations in the Rainy River district will share in almost 200-thousand dollars from the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
The Rainy Lake Nordic Ski Club will get $51-thousand to purchase ski and trail grooming equipment and construct an addition to the ski chalet for storage.
$37-thousand will go to the town of Fort Frances and its purchase two self-check stations for the new library and technology centre.
Atikokan Intergenerational Centre for Arts and Alternatives is receiving $34-thousand to assist with its operating costs as it develops a new strategic plan.
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 145 in Atikokan is using $30-thousand to install a new roof.
And Naicatchewenin First Nation will get $15-thousand to purchase equipment to establish a community garden.
The Rainy Lake Nordic Ski Club will get $51-thousand to purchase ski and trail grooming equipment and construct an addition to the ski chalet for storage.
$37-thousand will go to the town of Fort Frances and its purchase two self-check stations for the new library and technology centre.
Atikokan Intergenerational Centre for Arts and Alternatives is receiving $34-thousand to assist with its operating costs as it develops a new strategic plan.
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 145 in Atikokan is using $30-thousand to install a new roof.
And Naicatchewenin First Nation will get $15-thousand to purchase equipment to establish a community garden.
Bag Tags Up As Well
The cost to get rid of your garbage in the town of Fort Frances is also expected to rise.
Bag tags will cost two dollars in the new year with tipping fees at the landfill site to go up as well.
Operations and Facilities Manager Doug Brown says as more people recycle, revenue generated at the landfill is decreasing.
"It's a little different than most places as I don't see the economy coming back," says Brown, "with the landfill site making the revenue that we used to make a year ago. It's gone down. People are recycling more. They don't want to pay the fees so we're getting crunched."
Councillor Ken Perry opposed to the increase, concerned it would be a trend that would lead to higher fees in the future.
Bag tags will cost two dollars in the new year with tipping fees at the landfill site to go up as well.
Operations and Facilities Manager Doug Brown says as more people recycle, revenue generated at the landfill is decreasing.
"It's a little different than most places as I don't see the economy coming back," says Brown, "with the landfill site making the revenue that we used to make a year ago. It's gone down. People are recycling more. They don't want to pay the fees so we're getting crunched."
Councillor Ken Perry opposed to the increase, concerned it would be a trend that would lead to higher fees in the future.
User Fees Going Up
The town of Fort Frances is looking at a 2 per cent increase in user fees for most services within the municipality.
The increase was discussed at a meeting of council late yesterday (Monday) afternoon.
Councillor Paul Ryan feels the increase is reasonable.
"It keeps up with the purchasing power of the dollar," says Ryan. "It keeps up with inflation and that's about it. We aren't generating more money this year than last due to increases in wages, fuel, etc. We're pretty much staying the same."
But Ryan warns fees will riser higher in the middle of next year when HST must be applied to most - a hike Ryan says the municipality has no control over.
The increase was discussed at a meeting of council late yesterday (Monday) afternoon.
Councillor Paul Ryan feels the increase is reasonable.
"It keeps up with the purchasing power of the dollar," says Ryan. "It keeps up with inflation and that's about it. We aren't generating more money this year than last due to increases in wages, fuel, etc. We're pretty much staying the same."
But Ryan warns fees will riser higher in the middle of next year when HST must be applied to most - a hike Ryan says the municipality has no control over.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Local Sports for Monday December 7
Some hardware for Steve Arpin on the weekend at the ARCA/ReMax Series Championship Banquet.
Arpin was named ARCA Nation's Most Popular Driver.
He finished seventh in points in his rookie season.
Venturini Motorsports also confirmed Saturday the Fort Frances native will drive one of its cars in next February's ARCA race at Daytona Speedway.
Fort Frances Muskies boys hockey team lost in the consolation final of a tournament in Brandon 5-2 to Garden Valley.
Fort Frances Muskies girls hockey team lost 2-1 to Dryden in NORWOSSA action on Saturday.
Shae-Lynn Smith the lone goal scorer for the Muskies who face International Falls tomorrow night at the Ice for Kids Arena.
Friday the Muskies lost 3-2 to the Broncos in International Falls
Fort Frances Lakers were thumped 8-2 by the Dryden Ice Dogs Friday.
Jordan Carne and Cody Edwards scored for the Lakers.
The two teams meet again Wednesday in Dryden.
Rainy River Community College women's hockey team dropped a pair of games on the weekend to South Dakota State University, 9-4 Sunday and 4-2 Saturday.
Stevie-Lee Langford with a pair, Kylie Harala and Courtney Scholler scored in Sunday's game.
Scholler, Kyla Thorne had goals in Saturday's game.
Plenty of girls hockey action on the weekend
The Nor-Fab Flames Peewee Girls Rep Team beat the Dryden 4-0 Saturday.
Amber Jourdain and Amy Penner each scored twice.
Sunday, the Flames loss to the Peewee boys Greens Predators 4-3.
Penner again had two goals with Jourdain picking up the other.
Scoring for Greens were Ben Whitburn, Alex Gustafason, and Matt Cheetham with a pair.
The Dynamic Homes Hurricanes Atom Girls Rep Team split a pair of games with International Falls under-10 team, losing 3-0 Saturday before rebounding for a 7-5 win on Sunday.
Alyssa Alderson and Annaleise Hayes scored hat-tricks for the Hurricanes.
In Peewee Girls action, Super 8 edged Lakewood Tire Eagles 5-4.
Madisyn Degagne had four goals for Super 8.
Amber Jourdain added the other.
Jessica Coran and Amy Penner each had a pair for the Eagles.
Super 8 also blanked the Emo Boys 5-0, getting a pair of goals from Madisyn DeGagne and singles from Lindsey Dixon, Abbi Perreault and Claire Tibbs.
Eagles earned a 6-4 win over the International Falls under-12 team.
Coran had a hat-trick with Penner adding two and Rachel Jean adding the other.
Taylor Zawchanuk with 2, Margaret Hawler and Ashley Johnson scored for the Falls.
Fort Frances Timbits novice girls beat Emo Rockets 7-3.
Rolling Lake Lightning atom girls relied on a substitute netminder in a 4-0 win over the Emo Penguins.
Another player was forced to fill in without a goalie stick or pads after the Lightning's original netminder was forced to leave the game in the second with the flu.
Katelyn Gurniak and Marissa Loveday combined for the shutout.
Rainy River Community College basketball teams earn a split against Fergus Falls Friday.
The women's team won 69-61, but the men fell 98-77.
Fort Frances Muskies junior boys basketball team won its own tournament Saturday with a 46-36 win over Kenora's Beaver Brae Broncos in the final
International Falls Broncos girls basketball team host Lake of the Woods tonight - 7:30 at the Falls High School.
Friday, the Broncos lost to Deer River 74-44.
Muskies senior girls volleyball team were eliminated in the quarter-finals of a tournament in Dryden, losing to Portage La Prairie in 3-sets.
Muskies went through pool play with a 6 and 6 record, defeating Hammarskjold of Thunder Bay in a playoff match before losing to the Manitoba team.
Arpin was named ARCA Nation's Most Popular Driver.
He finished seventh in points in his rookie season.
Venturini Motorsports also confirmed Saturday the Fort Frances native will drive one of its cars in next February's ARCA race at Daytona Speedway.
Fort Frances Muskies boys hockey team lost in the consolation final of a tournament in Brandon 5-2 to Garden Valley.
Fort Frances Muskies girls hockey team lost 2-1 to Dryden in NORWOSSA action on Saturday.
Shae-Lynn Smith the lone goal scorer for the Muskies who face International Falls tomorrow night at the Ice for Kids Arena.
Friday the Muskies lost 3-2 to the Broncos in International Falls
Fort Frances Lakers were thumped 8-2 by the Dryden Ice Dogs Friday.
Jordan Carne and Cody Edwards scored for the Lakers.
The two teams meet again Wednesday in Dryden.
Rainy River Community College women's hockey team dropped a pair of games on the weekend to South Dakota State University, 9-4 Sunday and 4-2 Saturday.
Stevie-Lee Langford with a pair, Kylie Harala and Courtney Scholler scored in Sunday's game.
Scholler, Kyla Thorne had goals in Saturday's game.
Plenty of girls hockey action on the weekend
The Nor-Fab Flames Peewee Girls Rep Team beat the Dryden 4-0 Saturday.
Amber Jourdain and Amy Penner each scored twice.
Sunday, the Flames loss to the Peewee boys Greens Predators 4-3.
Penner again had two goals with Jourdain picking up the other.
Scoring for Greens were Ben Whitburn, Alex Gustafason, and Matt Cheetham with a pair.
The Dynamic Homes Hurricanes Atom Girls Rep Team split a pair of games with International Falls under-10 team, losing 3-0 Saturday before rebounding for a 7-5 win on Sunday.
Alyssa Alderson and Annaleise Hayes scored hat-tricks for the Hurricanes.
In Peewee Girls action, Super 8 edged Lakewood Tire Eagles 5-4.
Madisyn Degagne had four goals for Super 8.
Amber Jourdain added the other.
Jessica Coran and Amy Penner each had a pair for the Eagles.
Super 8 also blanked the Emo Boys 5-0, getting a pair of goals from Madisyn DeGagne and singles from Lindsey Dixon, Abbi Perreault and Claire Tibbs.
Eagles earned a 6-4 win over the International Falls under-12 team.
Coran had a hat-trick with Penner adding two and Rachel Jean adding the other.
Taylor Zawchanuk with 2, Margaret Hawler and Ashley Johnson scored for the Falls.
Fort Frances Timbits novice girls beat Emo Rockets 7-3.
Rolling Lake Lightning atom girls relied on a substitute netminder in a 4-0 win over the Emo Penguins.
Another player was forced to fill in without a goalie stick or pads after the Lightning's original netminder was forced to leave the game in the second with the flu.
Katelyn Gurniak and Marissa Loveday combined for the shutout.
Rainy River Community College basketball teams earn a split against Fergus Falls Friday.
The women's team won 69-61, but the men fell 98-77.
Fort Frances Muskies junior boys basketball team won its own tournament Saturday with a 46-36 win over Kenora's Beaver Brae Broncos in the final
International Falls Broncos girls basketball team host Lake of the Woods tonight - 7:30 at the Falls High School.
Friday, the Broncos lost to Deer River 74-44.
Muskies senior girls volleyball team were eliminated in the quarter-finals of a tournament in Dryden, losing to Portage La Prairie in 3-sets.
Muskies went through pool play with a 6 and 6 record, defeating Hammarskjold of Thunder Bay in a playoff match before losing to the Manitoba team.
New H1N1 Numbers
The number of cases of the swine flu in northwestern Ontario has dropped considerably over the past couple of weeks.
Figures released by the Ontario Ministry of Health show there were just two new cases of the H1N1 virus this past week.
That brings the number of cases in the region to 72 since the start of the fall flu season.
Figures released by the Ontario Ministry of Health show there were just two new cases of the H1N1 virus this past week.
That brings the number of cases in the region to 72 since the start of the fall flu season.
Calls for Meeting Renewed
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty renewed calls in the House of Commons for a meeting between the finance minister and AbitibiBowater and the Communication Energy and Paperworkers Union to discuss their plans to secure workers pensions.
Rafferty says since his first request two weeks ago, there's been no such meeting.
"Mr. Speaker, on November 20, I rose in this House and asked the Ministry of Finance if he was willing to meet with representatives of AbitibiBowater and CEP to hear their requests for changes in federal regulations to secure the pensions of more than 25,000 Canadian forestry workers," said Rafferty. "The minister agreed to such a meeting, but only after they met with his provincial counterparts first. Those provincial meetings have now happened, so I ask today, has the minister finally met with these representatives as he said he would, and if not, is such a meeting scheduled? Will the minister be part of the solution?"
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance Ted Menzies said a meeting is still planned, but no date has yet been set.
Rafferty says since his first request two weeks ago, there's been no such meeting.
"Mr. Speaker, on November 20, I rose in this House and asked the Ministry of Finance if he was willing to meet with representatives of AbitibiBowater and CEP to hear their requests for changes in federal regulations to secure the pensions of more than 25,000 Canadian forestry workers," said Rafferty. "The minister agreed to such a meeting, but only after they met with his provincial counterparts first. Those provincial meetings have now happened, so I ask today, has the minister finally met with these representatives as he said he would, and if not, is such a meeting scheduled? Will the minister be part of the solution?"
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance Ted Menzies said a meeting is still planned, but no date has yet been set.
Victims of Violence Remembered
About forty people gathered at Knox United Church yesterday to mark the twentieth anniversary of the murderous rampage at a Montreal university.
Fourteen women were killed and 13 others wounded during a shooting rampage by Marc Lepine.
Peggy Loyie of Rainy River District Victim Services said it was also a day to remember the countless others of women who have become victims of violence.
"This is a day for all of us to reflect on the phenomenon of violence against women in our society," said Loyie. "It also an opportunity to consider the women and girls for whom violence is a daily reality and to remember those who have died as a result of gender-based violence."
The names and photos of 16 women from the Rainy River district murdered over the past twenty years were also shown to those attending who lit candles in remembrances.
Raquel Desrosiers , who's mother Karla was killed two years ago, was among those on hand.
"It's really sad we have to lose women like this," says Desrosiers. "They have the numbers of all these women who are missing and murdered, but the numbers are actually a lot higher than that. It's scary. It's up to us to speak for the women who don't have voices anymore."
Fourteen women were killed and 13 others wounded during a shooting rampage by Marc Lepine.
Peggy Loyie of Rainy River District Victim Services said it was also a day to remember the countless others of women who have become victims of violence.
"This is a day for all of us to reflect on the phenomenon of violence against women in our society," said Loyie. "It also an opportunity to consider the women and girls for whom violence is a daily reality and to remember those who have died as a result of gender-based violence."
The names and photos of 16 women from the Rainy River district murdered over the past twenty years were also shown to those attending who lit candles in remembrances.
Raquel Desrosiers , who's mother Karla was killed two years ago, was among those on hand.
"It's really sad we have to lose women like this," says Desrosiers. "They have the numbers of all these women who are missing and murdered, but the numbers are actually a lot higher than that. It's scary. It's up to us to speak for the women who don't have voices anymore."
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Local Sports for Thursday December 3
The Fort Frances Lakers return to action tonight with a game in Sioux Lookout against the Flyers.
The Lakers are 5 points back of the K-and-A Wolverines for fourth spot in the SIJHL.
The Fort Frances Muskies boys hockey team open a tournament in Brandon tonight with a game against Sanford, Manitoba.
Twenty-four teams have entered with the finals set for Sunday.
The Lakers are 5 points back of the K-and-A Wolverines for fourth spot in the SIJHL.
The Fort Frances Muskies boys hockey team open a tournament in Brandon tonight with a game against Sanford, Manitoba.
Twenty-four teams have entered with the finals set for Sunday.
Keith to Get Long-term Contract
Duncan Keith is to be a Chicago Black Hawks for a long time.
The NHL club has announced a news conference for this afternoon where its expected they'll announce new long term deals for the former Fort Frances resident, as well as Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews.
Keith deal is reportedly 72-million dollars over 13 years.
Keith has five goals and 18 assists in 26 games this season, and is likely to part of Canada's Olympic team in Vancouver.
The NHL club has announced a news conference for this afternoon where its expected they'll announce new long term deals for the former Fort Frances resident, as well as Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews.
Keith deal is reportedly 72-million dollars over 13 years.
Keith has five goals and 18 assists in 26 games this season, and is likely to part of Canada's Olympic team in Vancouver.
Church Attendance Declining
Northwestern Ontario churches are feeling the pinch with smaller congregations and an aging population.
Elaine Sauer is the Bishop for Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario's Evangelical Lutheran Church, and says many youth are moving away from their small communities.
"In the isolated and rural communities, young people are moving away anyway," says Sauer. "We're becoming much more urbanized people and that's being reflected in the churches as well."
Sauer notes the Fort Frances Lutheran Zion church is actually one of few churches doing well with a strong congregation of both young and old members.
Elaine Sauer is the Bishop for Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario's Evangelical Lutheran Church, and says many youth are moving away from their small communities.
"In the isolated and rural communities, young people are moving away anyway," says Sauer. "We're becoming much more urbanized people and that's being reflected in the churches as well."
Sauer notes the Fort Frances Lutheran Zion church is actually one of few churches doing well with a strong congregation of both young and old members.
No Names Yet For New School
The Rainy River District School Board says it has not received a single suggestion from the public on a name for the new elementary school in Fort Frances.
The board had put out a call for suggestions in September.
Superintendent of Education Heather Campbell says people can still submit names through the board's website.
A committee will review the submissions before selecting three preferred names for trustees to choice.
The new school is open in the fall of 2010 and will bring together students now attending classes at Robert Moore and F.H. Huffman Schools.
The board had put out a call for suggestions in September.
Superintendent of Education Heather Campbell says people can still submit names through the board's website.
A committee will review the submissions before selecting three preferred names for trustees to choice.
The new school is open in the fall of 2010 and will bring together students now attending classes at Robert Moore and F.H. Huffman Schools.
Shoal Lake Man Sentenced
A Shoal Lake First Nation man will spend at least the next 20 years in jail for the murder two years ago of an 18-year-old teenager northwest of Fort Frances.
Bronson Harvey Green was sentenced to life in prison, with no eligibility for parole for 20 years, for second-degree murder of Ashley Janelle Smith of Naitcatchewenin.
Initially charged with first-degree murder, Green pleaded guilty to a charge of second-degree murder.
A police investigation and forensic testing concluded that Smith had been sexually assaulted and "brutally'' kicked in the head and face.
Bronson Harvey Green was sentenced to life in prison, with no eligibility for parole for 20 years, for second-degree murder of Ashley Janelle Smith of Naitcatchewenin.
Initially charged with first-degree murder, Green pleaded guilty to a charge of second-degree murder.
A police investigation and forensic testing concluded that Smith had been sexually assaulted and "brutally'' kicked in the head and face.
HST Hearings
New Democrat MP's were on the attack yesterday over the Harper's government's plans to allow Ontario and B-C to move towards a harmonized sales tax.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River's John Rafferty told the house one of the biggest impacts will be on gasoline purchases.
"For most people in northern Ontario, HST is simply a new gas tax," said Rafferty. "In Parry Sound today, gas without HST is 98.9¢ a litre, with HST, $1.07 a litre; in Sioux Lookout it is $1.05 without HST and $1.14 with HST; in New Liskeard it is $1.04 without HST and $1.13 with HST."
Rafferty was also critical of the Liberals for supporting the Conservative in what he calls a new gas tax for northerner.
Meantime, public hearings began today at the Ontario legislature into the Liberal government's plan to merge the eight per cent sales tax with the five per cent goods and services tax.
The Opposition lined up a wide range of groups to testify at the start of the committee hearings, while the government says proponents of the harmonized sales tax will appear later in the day.
Groups as diverse as condo owners, police pensioners, home care operators and the Canadian Taxpayers' Federation say the HST will drive up costs on items exempt from the provincial sales tax.
The government says it is also cutting personal and corporate taxes, and offering rebate cheques in the first year to offset the impact of the HST, which comes into effect next July.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River's John Rafferty told the house one of the biggest impacts will be on gasoline purchases.
"For most people in northern Ontario, HST is simply a new gas tax," said Rafferty. "In Parry Sound today, gas without HST is 98.9¢ a litre, with HST, $1.07 a litre; in Sioux Lookout it is $1.05 without HST and $1.14 with HST; in New Liskeard it is $1.04 without HST and $1.13 with HST."
Rafferty was also critical of the Liberals for supporting the Conservative in what he calls a new gas tax for northerner.
Meantime, public hearings began today at the Ontario legislature into the Liberal government's plan to merge the eight per cent sales tax with the five per cent goods and services tax.
The Opposition lined up a wide range of groups to testify at the start of the committee hearings, while the government says proponents of the harmonized sales tax will appear later in the day.
Groups as diverse as condo owners, police pensioners, home care operators and the Canadian Taxpayers' Federation say the HST will drive up costs on items exempt from the provincial sales tax.
The government says it is also cutting personal and corporate taxes, and offering rebate cheques in the first year to offset the impact of the HST, which comes into effect next July.
CN Engineers End Walk-out
CN Rail, the country's biggest railway, is getting back to normal, five days after its 17-hundred locomotive engineers went on strike.
Teamsters Canada says the engineers will be back at work as fast as they can after both sides reached a tentative agreement.
About a dozen members are from the Fort Frances area.
Under the deal, C-N says it will drop some of its proposed changes, including increasing the distance engineers have to drive each month.
Teamsters Canada says the engineers will be back at work as fast as they can after both sides reached a tentative agreement.
About a dozen members are from the Fort Frances area.
Under the deal, C-N says it will drop some of its proposed changes, including increasing the distance engineers have to drive each month.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Radio Stations Sale Approved
Two Thunder Bay radio stations are about to become part of the Northwoods Broadcasting family.
The CRTC gave approval today to the sale of Newcap-owned Magic 99.9 and the Giant to Acadia Broadcasting, Northwoods parent company and owners of CFOB.
The stations will join the company's existing stations in Kenora, Dryden as well Fort Frances and those in the Maritimes.
The deal, worth about $4.5-million, is expected to close within the next thirty days.
Greyhound Update
Greyhound Canada is announcing a series of service reductions to its passenger bus service in Ontario.
It says service along the Trans Canada highway will be preserved for now, but there will be frequency reductions.
The changes go into effect as of January 17.
In a release, Greyhound senior vice-president Stuart Kendrick says the company has indicated for months it could no longer sustain current financial losses without making adjustments to its existing operations.
He says the cuts are designed to relieve some of that financial pressure pending the outcome of the federal-provincial-territorial working group which is due to report in September 2010.
Some routes, including those in Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury andToronto will see one of their daily trips cut while the Sunday service will be cut from some routes.
Service between Thunder Bay and Winnipeg routes will remains as scheduled.
It says service along the Trans Canada highway will be preserved for now, but there will be frequency reductions.
The changes go into effect as of January 17.
In a release, Greyhound senior vice-president Stuart Kendrick says the company has indicated for months it could no longer sustain current financial losses without making adjustments to its existing operations.
He says the cuts are designed to relieve some of that financial pressure pending the outcome of the federal-provincial-territorial working group which is due to report in September 2010.
Some routes, including those in Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury andToronto will see one of their daily trips cut while the Sunday service will be cut from some routes.
Service between Thunder Bay and Winnipeg routes will remains as scheduled.
J.W. Walker Profiled
A recognition of activities at J.W. Walker School at last night meeting of the Rainy River District School Board.
The school's music program and its environmental film festival were both showcased before trustees.
Principal Bill Daley says the music program is just in its third year and has plenty of support.
"The parents are very supportive of the program," says Daley. "The parent council has fundraised every year to provide money for the band. It's an expensive program to run when you consider a bass drum runs about $3,000."
The schools intermediate band now numbers 42 under the direction of Nicole Thompson.
Trustees were entertained with a few musical numbers before watching a film from last May's environmental film festival and later at a similar event in Toronto.
The school is planning to host another festival in the near future.
Board Elections Held
The current chair and vice-chair for the Rainy River District School board will remain in their positions heading into an election year for all trustees.
Annual elections last night saw Dan Belluz return as chair.
Judy Eliuk will continue as vice-chair.
Eliuk will also continue to serve as the board's representative to the Ontario Public School Board Association.
Elections all three positions are held annual.
A Fort Frances trustee will remain as chair of the Northwest Catholic District School Board.
Anne-Marie Fitzgerald was re-elected to the position in elections held by the board last night.
Cathy Bowen, a trustee from Sioux Lookout, was elected vice-chair.
Annual elections last night saw Dan Belluz return as chair.
Judy Eliuk will continue as vice-chair.
Eliuk will also continue to serve as the board's representative to the Ontario Public School Board Association.
Elections all three positions are held annual.
A Fort Frances trustee will remain as chair of the Northwest Catholic District School Board.
Anne-Marie Fitzgerald was re-elected to the position in elections held by the board last night.
Cathy Bowen, a trustee from Sioux Lookout, was elected vice-chair.
More Gold Found
Rainy River Resources says its found another potentially large gold deposit in the Rainy River District.
The company says the discovery in the so-called Beaver Pond mineralization area of its property northwest of Emo create a new high priority for a future drilling program.
Rainy River Resources currently has five drill rigs working in the Richardson township properties with one now dedicated to the new find.
The company says the discovery in the so-called Beaver Pond mineralization area of its property northwest of Emo create a new high priority for a future drilling program.
Rainy River Resources currently has five drill rigs working in the Richardson township properties with one now dedicated to the new find.
CN Rail Offer Arbitration
CN Rail is offering to send just the issue of wages and benefits to binding arbitration in an effort to settle a strike by the railway's locomotive engineers.
The railway had previously insisted that all matters in dispute be sent to arbitration, but the company says it now would be willing to roll back a controversial mileage cap if the union withdraws its work-rule demands.
The 1,700 members of the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference have been off the job since Friday.
The railway had previously insisted that all matters in dispute be sent to arbitration, but the company says it now would be willing to roll back a controversial mileage cap if the union withdraws its work-rule demands.
The 1,700 members of the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference have been off the job since Friday.
Food Bank Usage Up
The Ontario Association of Food Banks says there's been a record increase in the number of people turning to food banks in the province since last fall.
The group says the economic downturn has made this its most difficult year, with the number of people served reaching historic highs.
There's been a 19 per cent spike in the number of people turning to food banks since last year _ compared with an increase of 11 percent in 2008 and 10 per cent during the 90s recession.
In all, the association says 375,000 Ontario residents use food banks each month, even though one third of people in those households are employed.
Many food banks have not been able to meet the increased demand,with one in four reducing the amount of food distributed in their hampers.
The group is calling on the province to review its social assistance rules and create a farm donation tax credit for producers who support local food banks.
The group says the economic downturn has made this its most difficult year, with the number of people served reaching historic highs.
There's been a 19 per cent spike in the number of people turning to food banks since last year _ compared with an increase of 11 percent in 2008 and 10 per cent during the 90s recession.
In all, the association says 375,000 Ontario residents use food banks each month, even though one third of people in those households are employed.
Many food banks have not been able to meet the increased demand,with one in four reducing the amount of food distributed in their hampers.
The group is calling on the province to review its social assistance rules and create a farm donation tax credit for producers who support local food banks.
More Donations Sought
A call for donations for the remote community of Pikangikum First Nation continues in the Rainy River district.
Family and Children's Services Rainy River says support for the campaign has been strong, but many more items are needed.
In particular, the local agency is seeking Enfamil formula with iron, diapers (size 4-6), baby and toddler clothes, children's boots, mitts, hats and snowsuits, and non-perishable food items.
Items can be dropped off at depots set up at grocery stores in Rainy River, Emo and Fort Frances or at FACS offices.
Family and Children's Services Rainy River says support for the campaign has been strong, but many more items are needed.
In particular, the local agency is seeking Enfamil formula with iron, diapers (size 4-6), baby and toddler clothes, children's boots, mitts, hats and snowsuits, and non-perishable food items.
Items can be dropped off at depots set up at grocery stores in Rainy River, Emo and Fort Frances or at FACS offices.
HST Protest Ends
A two-politician sit-in at the Ontario legislature has ended.
Two Progressive Conservatives who'd been refusing to leave the chamber to protest the lack of public hearings over the HST have given up after less than two days.
Bill Murdoch and Randy Hillier admit they can't force the Liberal government to hold public hearings on the merging of the provincial sales tax with the GST next July.
But the two insist their protest wasn't in vain because they've helped people realize the provincial Conservatives oppose the HST.
Murdoch and Hillier have both been suspended until the next session of the legislature, which may not come until after the 2011 election.
Opposition Leader Tim Hudak admitted the protest was approved by the Conservative caucus to try to force the Liberals into allowing public hearings across the province on the new tax.
However, the New Democrats say the Tory protest was aimed at helping the Conservatives distract voters from the fact they once supported harmonization.
Two Progressive Conservatives who'd been refusing to leave the chamber to protest the lack of public hearings over the HST have given up after less than two days.
Bill Murdoch and Randy Hillier admit they can't force the Liberal government to hold public hearings on the merging of the provincial sales tax with the GST next July.
But the two insist their protest wasn't in vain because they've helped people realize the provincial Conservatives oppose the HST.
Murdoch and Hillier have both been suspended until the next session of the legislature, which may not come until after the 2011 election.
Opposition Leader Tim Hudak admitted the protest was approved by the Conservative caucus to try to force the Liberals into allowing public hearings across the province on the new tax.
However, the New Democrats say the Tory protest was aimed at helping the Conservatives distract voters from the fact they once supported harmonization.
Greyhound Bus Service Up in the Air
The fate of Greyhound service in Northwestern Ontario remains up in the air.
The Ontario Highway Transport Board's 90 day deadline ended at midnight, allowing Greyhound to withdraw from the region if it desires.
But Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton feels confident bus service will be available to some communities along Highway 17.
However, Hampton says the McGuinty Government hasn't stated if they are in talks with the provider to continue service elsewhere in the northwest.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Local Sports for Tuesday December 1
Fort Frances Muskie Girls hockey team grabbed another victory last night with a 4-2 win over the Lake of the Woods Bears in Baudette.
Jillian Langtry had a pair of goals for the Muskies with singles off the sticks of Shae-lynn Smith and Courtney Bethune.
Dana Cridland earn the win in net.
The Pharmasave Midget Wildcats played the Junior Varsity Bears in Baudette, winning 6-nothing.
Tressa Galusha with a pair, Alison Brown, Bridget Jorgenson, Paige Ward and Katrina Wreggit scored for the Wildcats.
Fort Frances Muskies boys hockey team resumes NORWOSSA action tonight with a game against Dryden at the Ice for Kids Arena.
The 4-and-oh Muskies beat Dryden in their first match-up last Tuesday in Dryden 6-3.
Game time is 7 p.m.
Fort Frances Bantam Girls under-14 Leafs opened their season last night with a win.
The Leafs beat the International Falls Broncos junior varsity team 4-3.
Shelby Tymkin, Shilo Beck, Hailey Clendenning and Katie Sinclair scored for the Leafs.
They will head to Superior, Wisconsin for a tournament this coming weekend.
Boys hockey and girls basketball gets underway in International Falls tonight.
The Broncos boys hockey team hosts Hibbing in its season opener beginning at 7:30 p.m.
The varsity girls basketball team begins its season with a home game with Ely at Falls High School also beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Jillian Langtry had a pair of goals for the Muskies with singles off the sticks of Shae-lynn Smith and Courtney Bethune.
Dana Cridland earn the win in net.
The Pharmasave Midget Wildcats played the Junior Varsity Bears in Baudette, winning 6-nothing.
Tressa Galusha with a pair, Alison Brown, Bridget Jorgenson, Paige Ward and Katrina Wreggit scored for the Wildcats.
Fort Frances Muskies boys hockey team resumes NORWOSSA action tonight with a game against Dryden at the Ice for Kids Arena.
The 4-and-oh Muskies beat Dryden in their first match-up last Tuesday in Dryden 6-3.
Game time is 7 p.m.
Fort Frances Bantam Girls under-14 Leafs opened their season last night with a win.
The Leafs beat the International Falls Broncos junior varsity team 4-3.
Shelby Tymkin, Shilo Beck, Hailey Clendenning and Katie Sinclair scored for the Leafs.
They will head to Superior, Wisconsin for a tournament this coming weekend.
Boys hockey and girls basketball gets underway in International Falls tonight.
The Broncos boys hockey team hosts Hibbing in its season opener beginning at 7:30 p.m.
The varsity girls basketball team begins its season with a home game with Ely at Falls High School also beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Kettle Campaign Starts Today
The Salvation Army's Christmas Kettle Campaign is underway.
Fort Frances Mayor Roy Avis kicked off the campaign by manning kettle at Walmart this morning.
Captain Angel Sandoval says they're hoping to raise 15-thousand dollars this year.
"Don't hesitate to donate," says Sandoval. "Every donation you do to the Salvation Army is used locally in Fort Frances and the district."
Kettles have also been set up at Canadian Tire, Safeway, the Place and LCBO throughout the month of December.
The Salvation Army is also still looking for volunteers to man the kettles, even for just an hour or two.
To help, you can call the Salvation Army at 274-3871.
Green Party Eyes Next Election
The new leader of the Green Party in Ontario says northwestern Ontario will get attention from the Party.
Mike Schreiner says he intends to bring the Green's platform to the region as he travels the province in the near future in anticipation of the 2011 provincial election.
Schreiner says part of the plan for the north is helping to build a diversified economy.
"I don't want the people of the north to simply be the suppliers of raw material then have the value-added and most of profits in the south and other parts of the world," says Schreiner. "I think we can be investing in more value-added, more diversified production in the north to keep most of the dollars in the north."
Schreiner is making his role as leader a full-time job with a continued presence at Queen's Park and intends to run Green Party candidates in every riding in the 2011 election.
Mike Schreiner says he intends to bring the Green's platform to the region as he travels the province in the near future in anticipation of the 2011 provincial election.
Schreiner says part of the plan for the north is helping to build a diversified economy.
"I don't want the people of the north to simply be the suppliers of raw material then have the value-added and most of profits in the south and other parts of the world," says Schreiner. "I think we can be investing in more value-added, more diversified production in the north to keep most of the dollars in the north."
Schreiner is making his role as leader a full-time job with a continued presence at Queen's Park and intends to run Green Party candidates in every riding in the 2011 election.
HST Protect Continues
A continuing protest over tax harmonization at the Ontario legislature has derailed the daily question period in the chamber.
Progressive Conservatives Randy Hillier and Bill Murdoch have been staging a sit-in over the government's refusal to hold provincewide public consultations on the tax change.
The two remained in the legislature overnight despite being ordered to leave by Speaker Steve Peters.
But Hillier and Murdoch were rejoined by their caucus colleagues today and continued to shout and pound their desks.
Following a brief meeting to try to resolve the impasse, the speaker began question period by again asking Hillier and Murdoch to leave, but they remained in their chairs.
The speaker then said he was not prepared to continue and would``let the clock run'' down on the daily session.
Progressive Conservatives Randy Hillier and Bill Murdoch have been staging a sit-in over the government's refusal to hold provincewide public consultations on the tax change.
The two remained in the legislature overnight despite being ordered to leave by Speaker Steve Peters.
But Hillier and Murdoch were rejoined by their caucus colleagues today and continued to shout and pound their desks.
Following a brief meeting to try to resolve the impasse, the speaker began question period by again asking Hillier and Murdoch to leave, but they remained in their chairs.
The speaker then said he was not prepared to continue and would``let the clock run'' down on the daily session.
School Board Elections Tonight
The election of chair and vice chair will lead tonight's meeting of the Rainy River District School board.
The elections for the two top position are done on an yearly basis.
Dan Belluz is the current chair while Judy Eliuk is vice-chair.
Trustees will also elect their representative to the Ontario Public School Board's Association, a position currently held by Eliuk.
The elections for the two top position are done on an yearly basis.
Dan Belluz is the current chair while Judy Eliuk is vice-chair.
Trustees will also elect their representative to the Ontario Public School Board's Association, a position currently held by Eliuk.
DriveTest Strike Continues
The provincial government says it will not legislate an end to a strike by driving examiners.
Labour Minister Peter Fonseca insists the most productive solution is a negotiated settlement with the help of government mediators.
The strike affects 93 full-time and part-time DriveTest sites, including one in Fort Frances, which grant or renew licences to novice drivers and those over 80.
It's now into its fourth month.
Labour Minister Peter Fonseca insists the most productive solution is a negotiated settlement with the help of government mediators.
The strike affects 93 full-time and part-time DriveTest sites, including one in Fort Frances, which grant or renew licences to novice drivers and those over 80.
It's now into its fourth month.
Back to Work Legislation Tabled
Legislation to end the strike at CN Rail is expected to be passed in the House of Commons within days.
Labour Minister Rona Ambrose has introduced a bill to force striking locomotive engineers back to work and to send outstanding issues to binding arbitration.
Ambrose says the transportation system is a vital part of the economy and a strike could hurt the fragile recovery.
About 17-hundred engineers walked off the job after talks broke down Friday night.
Murdered Women Remembered
Six women murdered in the Rainy River district at the hands of men are to be remembered in a dedication later this week.
The Atikokan Crisis Centre will be planting the trees in front of its second-stage complex.
Executive Director Donna Kroocmo says its important to have a visual reminder that violence against women happens here.
"People don't think it happens locally, but it does," says Kroocmo. "These are women that were murdered by their partners in the Rainy River district. I want to plant the trees with a plaque in front of the tree that identifies her name, age and date of death."
The dedication is to coincide with National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women and the twentieth anniversary of the 14 women killed at a Montreal University.
The Atikokan Crisis Centre will be planting the trees in front of its second-stage complex.
Executive Director Donna Kroocmo says its important to have a visual reminder that violence against women happens here.
"People don't think it happens locally, but it does," says Kroocmo. "These are women that were murdered by their partners in the Rainy River district. I want to plant the trees with a plaque in front of the tree that identifies her name, age and date of death."
The dedication is to coincide with National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women and the twentieth anniversary of the 14 women killed at a Montreal University.
Health Plan Released
A long-awaited health plan for northwestern Ontario has now been released by the Northwest Local Health Integration Network.
The plan includes suggestions to improve wait times in emergency rooms, improve access to primary, long term and specialty care, and the prevention of chronic disease.
Executive Director Gwen Dubois-Wing says the goal of the three year integrated health plan is to improve access to the health care system.
"As we talked with people they would relay their concerns about gaps within the system," says Dubois-Wing, "so how do we build a more robust system so that people don't experience the gaps and their care needs are addressed."
Dubois-Wing says they will be working with hospitals and other health care providers in the region to implement the plan.
The plan includes suggestions to improve wait times in emergency rooms, improve access to primary, long term and specialty care, and the prevention of chronic disease.
Executive Director Gwen Dubois-Wing says the goal of the three year integrated health plan is to improve access to the health care system.
"As we talked with people they would relay their concerns about gaps within the system," says Dubois-Wing, "so how do we build a more robust system so that people don't experience the gaps and their care needs are addressed."
Dubois-Wing says they will be working with hospitals and other health care providers in the region to implement the plan.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Local Sports for Monday November 30
Fort France Midget AA Canadians fell 6-3 to Wayzata in the B-side final of the Gus Lindberg Memorial Midget Double-A hockey tournament held at the Memorial Sport Centre on the weekend.
Ryan Lundy, Jeff Gustafson and Tarran Romyn scored for the Canadians who went 1-1-1 during the round robin portion of the tournament.
Thunder Bay's Current River Comets beat Duluth 4-3 in the A-side final.
A pair of bronze medals for girls hockey teams playing at tournaments in Warroad on the weekend.
The Nor-Fab Flames brought home the bronze in the pee-wee side with a 4-3 win over Grand Forks.
The Dynamic Homes Hurricanes Atom girls rep team also earned bronze after losing to Roseau 4-2.
Fort Frances Muskie Girls Hockey team captured gold at the Northern Shield Classic in Dryden, beating Red Lake in Saturday's final 3-1.
Jillian Langtry had two goals and Danielle Jean had one.
Melissa Payne had the win in net.
Fort Frances Muskies Boys hockey team defeated Detroit Lakes, Minnesota 5-3 to win the Thanksgiving Shootout trophy.
Friday, the Muskies hammered a team from Bagley-Fosston, Minnesota 19-0.
Fort Frances rinks skipped by Tierzah Keffer and Ethan Jordbro fell short in their bids to advance to the provincial junior curling playdowns.
Keffer finished with 1 win and 3 losses at the Inter-Regional event in Atikokan on the weekend.
Jordbro was 2-4 on the men's side.
Fresh of its gold medal win in at a Dryden tournament, the Fort Frances Muskies girls hockey team is in action tonight in Baudette.
Muskies face the Lake of the Woods Bears beginning at 7:30 p.m.
International Falls boys hockey team has been ranked fourteenth in the state in a pre-season poll of Class A high schools.
Broncos open their season tomorrow against Hibbing.
In minor girls hockey from the weekend, the Fort Frances Atom Leftovers tied the Emo Penguins 2-2 on Saturday.
Jenna Clendenning and Kelsey Langtree scored for Fort Frances.
Ryan Lundy, Jeff Gustafson and Tarran Romyn scored for the Canadians who went 1-1-1 during the round robin portion of the tournament.
Thunder Bay's Current River Comets beat Duluth 4-3 in the A-side final.
A pair of bronze medals for girls hockey teams playing at tournaments in Warroad on the weekend.
The Nor-Fab Flames brought home the bronze in the pee-wee side with a 4-3 win over Grand Forks.
The Dynamic Homes Hurricanes Atom girls rep team also earned bronze after losing to Roseau 4-2.
Fort Frances Muskie Girls Hockey team captured gold at the Northern Shield Classic in Dryden, beating Red Lake in Saturday's final 3-1.
Jillian Langtry had two goals and Danielle Jean had one.
Melissa Payne had the win in net.
Fort Frances Muskies Boys hockey team defeated Detroit Lakes, Minnesota 5-3 to win the Thanksgiving Shootout trophy.
Friday, the Muskies hammered a team from Bagley-Fosston, Minnesota 19-0.
Fort Frances rinks skipped by Tierzah Keffer and Ethan Jordbro fell short in their bids to advance to the provincial junior curling playdowns.
Keffer finished with 1 win and 3 losses at the Inter-Regional event in Atikokan on the weekend.
Jordbro was 2-4 on the men's side.
Fresh of its gold medal win in at a Dryden tournament, the Fort Frances Muskies girls hockey team is in action tonight in Baudette.
Muskies face the Lake of the Woods Bears beginning at 7:30 p.m.
International Falls boys hockey team has been ranked fourteenth in the state in a pre-season poll of Class A high schools.
Broncos open their season tomorrow against Hibbing.
In minor girls hockey from the weekend, the Fort Frances Atom Leftovers tied the Emo Penguins 2-2 on Saturday.
Jenna Clendenning and Kelsey Langtree scored for Fort Frances.
Warm Weather Comes to an End
A high of 28 degrees Friday ended a string of 242 consecutive days that International Falls had recorded a high temperature above 32 degrees.
It's the 3rd longest stretch at International Falls followed behind the 246 string of days in 1958 and the 244 days in 2001.
It's the 3rd longest stretch at International Falls followed behind the 246 string of days in 1958 and the 244 days in 2001.
Parade Winners
Fort Frances' downtown area was brighten Saturday evening with the annual Parade of Lights.
More than 20 organizations participated.
Awards went to Mike Tullio, Boston Pizza, Rainy Lake Conservancy, St Mary’s Youth Group and the Novice Girls Hockey Team for their floats.
More than 20 organizations participated.
Awards went to Mike Tullio, Boston Pizza, Rainy Lake Conservancy, St Mary’s Youth Group and the Novice Girls Hockey Team for their floats.
Cancer Drug Funded
Just months after Ontario's ombudsman criticized the government, the Health Ministry is extending funding of a potentially life-saving cancer drug.
Health Minister Deb Matthews says Ontario will now fund Avastin for up to 24 two-week treatments if medical evidence shows their disease hasn't progressed.
Government figures show the average length of survival for people who receive Avastin with other chemotherapy is close to two years -- compared with a little over a year without the drug.
Health Minister Deb Matthews says Ontario will now fund Avastin for up to 24 two-week treatments if medical evidence shows their disease hasn't progressed.
Government figures show the average length of survival for people who receive Avastin with other chemotherapy is close to two years -- compared with a little over a year without the drug.
More Residents Asked to Get H1N1 Shot
The push to get Ontario residents inoculated against H1N1 is turning next to workplaces and college and university students.
Ontario has launched a $650-thousand "Join the Resistance'' ad campaign to encourage college and university students to roll up their sleeves for the flu shot.
Ontario's chief medical officer of health says that almost half of those hospitalized in Ontario for H1N1 are people under 20.
Ontario has launched a $650-thousand "Join the Resistance'' ad campaign to encourage college and university students to roll up their sleeves for the flu shot.
Ontario's chief medical officer of health says that almost half of those hospitalized in Ontario for H1N1 are people under 20.
Forensic Unit Opened in Northwest
A new OPP forensic identification services unit has opened in Thunder Bay.
The state-of-the-art building provides the OPP and area police services with advanced tools to analyse evidence.
The $6.6-million facility includes a bio-hazard lab, bloodstain room for blood spatter examination and modern fingerprinting technologies.
Community Safety and Correctional Services Minister Rick Bartolucci says it'll advance the science of criminal investigation in northwestern Ontario.
The state-of-the-art building provides the OPP and area police services with advanced tools to analyse evidence.
The $6.6-million facility includes a bio-hazard lab, bloodstain room for blood spatter examination and modern fingerprinting technologies.
Community Safety and Correctional Services Minister Rick Bartolucci says it'll advance the science of criminal investigation in northwestern Ontario.
National Day of Remembrance Marked
Area agencies will mark a National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women with events across the district this week.
Both the United Native Friendship Centre and Rainy River District Victims Services are promoting activities to bring public awareness.
Peggy Loyie of Victims Services says violence against women is happening in our own back yard.
"This year marks the 20th year since the Montreal massacre where 14 women were killed at École Polytechnique," says Loyie, "but in those 20 years since we've been able to name at least nine women who have been murdered in our district alone."
Among events planned will be a solemn ceremony at Knox United Church this Sunday.
NEXUS Centre Opens Today
The NEXUS Enrolment Centre opens is doors in Fort Frances today.
The centre is to be located at 301 Scott Street.
Area Port Director for the U-S Customs and Border Protection Christine Lessard says the move from International Falls will help deliver the program more effectively.
"It was felt this would give us a bigger and better space with easier access for customers," says Lessard.
The centre serves as an interview site for those applying for the NEXUS card, considered an acceptable form of identification to cross the border.
The centre is to be located at 301 Scott Street.
Area Port Director for the U-S Customs and Border Protection Christine Lessard says the move from International Falls will help deliver the program more effectively.
"It was felt this would give us a bigger and better space with easier access for customers," says Lessard.
The centre serves as an interview site for those applying for the NEXUS card, considered an acceptable form of identification to cross the border.
Border Water Patrols Enhanced
Canada and the U.S. governments are giving more powers to authorities to police force border waters.
A framework agreement will allow specially designated Canadian and American law enforcement personnel to jointly work on marine law enforcement vessels in boundary waters, such as Rainy Lake and Lake of the Woods.
Justice Minister Rob Nicholson says the officers will have the powers to enforce laws from both sides of the border.
"This will enhance our security on both sides of the border," says Nicholson, "by reducing smuggling and trafficking illegal drugs, guns and people."
Nicholson says its hoped to have the new units in place next summer.
A framework agreement will allow specially designated Canadian and American law enforcement personnel to jointly work on marine law enforcement vessels in boundary waters, such as Rainy Lake and Lake of the Woods.
Justice Minister Rob Nicholson says the officers will have the powers to enforce laws from both sides of the border.
"This will enhance our security on both sides of the border," says Nicholson, "by reducing smuggling and trafficking illegal drugs, guns and people."
Nicholson says its hoped to have the new units in place next summer.
CN Locomotive Engineers Strike
Canadian National Railway locomotive engineers walked off the job at Midnight Friday after mediated contract talks collapsed.
Pickets were set up across northwestern Ontario including in the Rainy River district.
CN communications director, Mark Hallman, says supervisors and managers who are qualified engineers are taking over operation of the locomotives to minimize any possible disruption of freight service.
Teamsters union spokesman Stephane Lacroix says the dispute centres on CN's demands to limit a wage increase to 1.5 per cent and to revise mileage caps for the engineers.
With no further contract talks scheduled, the railway is pushing for binding arbitration to settle the dispute.
The union is offering to submit wage issues to binding arbitration on the conditional that all other outstanding issues are resolved at the bargaining table.
Meantime, a senior government official says Ottawa is prepared to table back-to-work legislation today to end the strike if the two sides haven't reached an agreement.
The official, who declined to be named, said the government would prefer the union and the company to negotiate but to protect the Canadian economy it could not let the strike continue.
Pickets were set up across northwestern Ontario including in the Rainy River district.
CN communications director, Mark Hallman, says supervisors and managers who are qualified engineers are taking over operation of the locomotives to minimize any possible disruption of freight service.
Teamsters union spokesman Stephane Lacroix says the dispute centres on CN's demands to limit a wage increase to 1.5 per cent and to revise mileage caps for the engineers.
With no further contract talks scheduled, the railway is pushing for binding arbitration to settle the dispute.
The union is offering to submit wage issues to binding arbitration on the conditional that all other outstanding issues are resolved at the bargaining table.
Meantime, a senior government official says Ottawa is prepared to table back-to-work legislation today to end the strike if the two sides haven't reached an agreement.
The official, who declined to be named, said the government would prefer the union and the company to negotiate but to protect the Canadian economy it could not let the strike continue.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Local Sports for Friday November 27
Fort Frances Lakers managed just 18 shots in a 4-2 loss to the K and A Wolverines in Thunder Bay last night.
The teams were tied 2-2 in the second with the Lakers getting markers from Jake Ransom and Morgan McNeill before the Wolverines scored twice in the third for the win.
Netminder Jameson Shortreed stopped 53 of 57 shots in the loss.
Fort Frances Canadians host the Gus Lindberg Memorial Midget AA hockey tournament at the Memorial Sport Centre this weekend.
Six teams have entered with the Canadians playing their first game tonight against Kenora's Saint Thomas Aquinas at 6:15 p.m.
Nor-Fab Flames Peewee Girls and the Dynamic Homes Hurricanes Atom Girls teams are in tournaments in Warroad this weekend.
Nor-Fab opens play tonight against Warroad while the Hurricanes begin the tournament with a game against Roseau tomorrow.
In high school hockey, Fort Frances Muskies boys team travels to Detroit Lakes for a pair of exhibition games while the girls team is in Dryden for a tournament.
The girls first game is this afternoon against Sioux Lookout.
Atikokan is the host site of the Junior Men's and Women's Inter-Regional Curling Playdown.
Seven men's and four women's teams are competing in the 3-day Tournament.
Fort Frances is represented by Ethan Jordbro's rink on the men's side and Tirzah Keffer on the women's.
The teams were tied 2-2 in the second with the Lakers getting markers from Jake Ransom and Morgan McNeill before the Wolverines scored twice in the third for the win.
Netminder Jameson Shortreed stopped 53 of 57 shots in the loss.
Fort Frances Canadians host the Gus Lindberg Memorial Midget AA hockey tournament at the Memorial Sport Centre this weekend.
Six teams have entered with the Canadians playing their first game tonight against Kenora's Saint Thomas Aquinas at 6:15 p.m.
Nor-Fab Flames Peewee Girls and the Dynamic Homes Hurricanes Atom Girls teams are in tournaments in Warroad this weekend.
Nor-Fab opens play tonight against Warroad while the Hurricanes begin the tournament with a game against Roseau tomorrow.
In high school hockey, Fort Frances Muskies boys team travels to Detroit Lakes for a pair of exhibition games while the girls team is in Dryden for a tournament.
The girls first game is this afternoon against Sioux Lookout.
Atikokan is the host site of the Junior Men's and Women's Inter-Regional Curling Playdown.
Seven men's and four women's teams are competing in the 3-day Tournament.
Fort Frances is represented by Ethan Jordbro's rink on the men's side and Tirzah Keffer on the women's.
Out-of-Province Health Visits Increase
Health Minister Deb Matthews says she's trying to tackle a huge increase in out-of-province visits covered by Ontario health insurance.
A new report says Ontario agreed to fund almost 12-thousand procedures or treatments outside the province last year, up from about 2-thousand in 2001.
Matthews says the government is putting more money into reducing those visits.
A new report says Ontario agreed to fund almost 12-thousand procedures or treatments outside the province last year, up from about 2-thousand in 2001.
Matthews says the government is putting more money into reducing those visits.
More Flu Clinics Here
The Northwestern Health Unit has unveiled its December schedule for vaccinations clinics for the H1H1 flu.
Clinics in Rainy River, Fort Frances and Atikokan have been scheduled through to the middle of December.
But in other parts of the province they appear to be coming to an end - despite the fact that many people have not got the shot.
Public health units in Hamilton and Stratford plan to close their clinics next week, saying demand for shots is dropping.
Clinics in Rainy River, Fort Frances and Atikokan have been scheduled through to the middle of December.
But in other parts of the province they appear to be coming to an end - despite the fact that many people have not got the shot.
Public health units in Hamilton and Stratford plan to close their clinics next week, saying demand for shots is dropping.
Legal Aid Boycot Grows
A boycott of the legal aid system in Ontario could be widening to include all offences.
The Criminal Lawyers' Association is considering its options but some lawyers are pushing hard for an escalated protest to back demands for higher fees.
The boycott now only applies to cases involving guns and gangs and homicides.
Lawyers voluntarily take on legal aid work so the government can't force them back to work.
The Criminal Lawyers' Association is considering its options but some lawyers are pushing hard for an escalated protest to back demands for higher fees.
The boycott now only applies to cases involving guns and gangs and homicides.
Lawyers voluntarily take on legal aid work so the government can't force them back to work.
Lodge Burns
OPP say foul play is not suspected in a fire that destroyed a tourist camp in northwestern Ontario.
Yesterday's fire levelled the main lodge at Cedar Point Lodge near Waldhof, west of Dryden.
No one was injured.
Yesterday's fire levelled the main lodge at Cedar Point Lodge near Waldhof, west of Dryden.
No one was injured.
Donations Wanted
The Salvation Army will be seeking donations of non-perishable foods and money from parade goers.
They'll be aided in tomorrow's parade by staff and management of B-93 and other volunteers.
Captain Angel Sandoval is hoping people will help out.
"We expect people will provide economical contributions," says Sandoval, " food and gifts. Everything is welcome. We have a big increase in the number of people asking for help this year."
Sandoval cites the economy as a reason for the increase.
They'll be aided in tomorrow's parade by staff and management of B-93 and other volunteers.
Captain Angel Sandoval is hoping people will help out.
"We expect people will provide economical contributions," says Sandoval, " food and gifts. Everything is welcome. We have a big increase in the number of people asking for help this year."
Sandoval cites the economy as a reason for the increase.
Parade of Lights Tomorrow
The fifty-second annual Parade of Lights goes tomorrow evening in Fort Frances.
More than 20 organizations have confirmed entry to date.
Set up takes place at 3 p.m. in front of the Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau with judging at 4 p.m. and the parade starting at 5 p.m.
While not prohibited, parade organizers are asking motorists to avoid parking on Scott Street until the parade is over.
More than 20 organizations have confirmed entry to date.
Set up takes place at 3 p.m. in front of the Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau with judging at 4 p.m. and the parade starting at 5 p.m.
While not prohibited, parade organizers are asking motorists to avoid parking on Scott Street until the parade is over.
RIDE Program Out in Force
The Ontario Provincial Police kick off their 2009 Holiday RIDE campaign today.
The Province wide initiative will wraps up on January 2.
Constable Dave Cain says holiday party guests shouldn't feel their only option is to drink and drive.
"We're reminding the public that there is no excuse for drinking and driving," says Cain. "There are many other ways to get home whether you take a cab or arrange ahead of time for a designated driver."
Last year, OPP laid more than 300 impaired driving charges on Ontario's roads.
The Province wide initiative will wraps up on January 2.
Constable Dave Cain says holiday party guests shouldn't feel their only option is to drink and drive.
"We're reminding the public that there is no excuse for drinking and driving," says Cain. "There are many other ways to get home whether you take a cab or arrange ahead of time for a designated driver."
Last year, OPP laid more than 300 impaired driving charges on Ontario's roads.
CAS Commission Announced
The Ontario government has appointed a promised commission to study the workings of the children's aid system.
It follows complaints Children's Aid Societies are not able to do a proper job of protecting children with their current budgets.
Premier Dalton McGuinty has refused to commit new money, saying his government has raised budgets by 30 per cent.
Critics have said children were at risk of being left in abusive homes and are facing higher suicide rates in one part of northern Ontario.
They also complained the promised commission had yet to get off the ground.
Laurel Broten, the minister of children and youth services,announced the appointment of the commission Thursday.
Broten says the commission is an opportunity "to find creative solutions to improve services children and youth are receiving in Ontario within available resources.''
It follows complaints Children's Aid Societies are not able to do a proper job of protecting children with their current budgets.
Premier Dalton McGuinty has refused to commit new money, saying his government has raised budgets by 30 per cent.
Critics have said children were at risk of being left in abusive homes and are facing higher suicide rates in one part of northern Ontario.
They also complained the promised commission had yet to get off the ground.
Laurel Broten, the minister of children and youth services,announced the appointment of the commission Thursday.
Broten says the commission is an opportunity "to find creative solutions to improve services children and youth are receiving in Ontario within available resources.''
Pikangikum Help Needed
An appeal for supplies for children and youth in Pikangikum First Nation has generated a strong response in the Rainy River District.
Family and Children Services Rainy River is spearheading the drive after responding to pleas for food and clothing from Sioux Lookout's Tikinagan Child and Family Services.
Jacquee Loerzel says a variety of items are still needed.
"We're looking for things like cases of enfamil infant formula with iron," says Loerzel, "cases of diapers sizes 4 to 6, winter clothing including hats, mitts, boots and jackets for infants, children and youth. We're also looking for fleece blankets, ski pants and wool socks. We're also looking for non-perishable food items."
The items can be brought to Beaver Mills in Rainy River, Cloverleaf in Emo, Walmart and Safeway in Fort Frances or to FACS offices in Fort Frances and Atikokan.
Family and Children Services Rainy River is spearheading the drive after responding to pleas for food and clothing from Sioux Lookout's Tikinagan Child and Family Services.
Jacquee Loerzel says a variety of items are still needed.
"We're looking for things like cases of enfamil infant formula with iron," says Loerzel, "cases of diapers sizes 4 to 6, winter clothing including hats, mitts, boots and jackets for infants, children and youth. We're also looking for fleece blankets, ski pants and wool socks. We're also looking for non-perishable food items."
The items can be brought to Beaver Mills in Rainy River, Cloverleaf in Emo, Walmart and Safeway in Fort Frances or to FACS offices in Fort Frances and Atikokan.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Local Sports for Thursday November 26
Fort Frances Lakers travel to Thunder Bay today for a game against the K & A Wolverines.
The Lakers trail the Wolverines by three points for fourth place in the SIJHL.
The top two teams go head-to-head tonight in the Fort Frances Women's Volleyball League.
2nd-place Gillions insurance is 3-points back of league leading A Buck or Two as both teams have pulled away from the rest of the field in the standings.
Third place has turned into a battle before the Wildcats, the Wenbergs, Scared Hitless and Lac La Croix.
The Lakers trail the Wolverines by three points for fourth place in the SIJHL.
The top two teams go head-to-head tonight in the Fort Frances Women's Volleyball League.
2nd-place Gillions insurance is 3-points back of league leading A Buck or Two as both teams have pulled away from the rest of the field in the standings.
Third place has turned into a battle before the Wildcats, the Wenbergs, Scared Hitless and Lac La Croix.
Air Service Plan Put Forward
An early morning departure and an evening return flight to Falls International Airport have been included in a new proposal from Mesaba Airlines.
The new proposal comes after Mesaba’s initial offer for air passenger service was rejected by the U-S Department of Transportation in October.
City and airport officials had expressed concerns with its scheduled that offered flights during the mid-afternoon.
Mesaba, which was acquired by Delta as part of its merger with Northwest Airlines, was the only carrier to submit a proposal for the Falls airport.
The new proposal comes after Mesaba’s initial offer for air passenger service was rejected by the U-S Department of Transportation in October.
City and airport officials had expressed concerns with its scheduled that offered flights during the mid-afternoon.
Mesaba, which was acquired by Delta as part of its merger with Northwest Airlines, was the only carrier to submit a proposal for the Falls airport.
Sid Ryan Heads OFL
Sid Ryan is to be named president of the Ontario Federal of Labour at a convention in Toronto today.
The longtime CUPE Ontario president replaces Wayne Samuelson who, after 12 years in office, decided not to seek re-election.
The longtime CUPE Ontario president replaces Wayne Samuelson who, after 12 years in office, decided not to seek re-election.
Elk Plan Drafted
An elk management plan has been drafted to deal with the population of the animals in the province.
Elk numbers have exploded in the Bancroft area, but have dropped off in the Cameron Lake area near Nestor Falls.
Christie Curly of the Ministry of Natural Resources says while there are no plans to import more elk to Ontario, there has been some discussion of moving elk from one area to another.
"The plan doesn't have the answer in it," says Curly. "What it does say is that trans-location, that relocation of animals from one location to another, is often suggested as a potential management tool. We really need to review the risks and benefits associated on a case-by-case basis."
The MNR began importing elk into Ontario from Alberta about a decade ago with mixed results.
Elk numbers have exploded in the Bancroft area, but have dropped off in the Cameron Lake area near Nestor Falls.
Christie Curly of the Ministry of Natural Resources says while there are no plans to import more elk to Ontario, there has been some discussion of moving elk from one area to another.
"The plan doesn't have the answer in it," says Curly. "What it does say is that trans-location, that relocation of animals from one location to another, is often suggested as a potential management tool. We really need to review the risks and benefits associated on a case-by-case basis."
The MNR began importing elk into Ontario from Alberta about a decade ago with mixed results.
Drivers Getting the Message - Not to Text
Ontario's cellphone ban is one month old today and police say most people seem to be getting the hang of it.
But a lot of drivers are having a hard time giving up the dangerous habit of talking or texting while driving.
So far, OPP have given out more than 1,100 warnings and about two dozen tickets.
None of the tickets have been issued by police in the Rainy River district.
But a lot of drivers are having a hard time giving up the dangerous habit of talking or texting while driving.
So far, OPP have given out more than 1,100 warnings and about two dozen tickets.
None of the tickets have been issued by police in the Rainy River district.
Human Remains Identified
Human remains found north of Pickle Lake are those of a 51-year-old Kitchener man.
Jeffery Boyd had been reported missing to Waterloo Regional Police on November 8th.
His body was discovered by a hunter on Saturday, 65 kilometres north of Pickle Lake.
Police are not releasing the cause of death although they say an investigation continues into why Boyd was in a remote part of northwestern Ontario.
Jeffery Boyd had been reported missing to Waterloo Regional Police on November 8th.
His body was discovered by a hunter on Saturday, 65 kilometres north of Pickle Lake.
Police are not releasing the cause of death although they say an investigation continues into why Boyd was in a remote part of northwestern Ontario.
New Centre Name
The Atikokan Crisis Centre has come up with a new name.
It's to be called the Rainy River District Women's Shelter of Hope.
Executive Director Donna Kroocmo says the name was selected by the board out of several offered by an Atikokan resident.
"That one stuck with them," says Kroocmo. "and they liked that word 'hope.' They tried to incorporate into the new idea of the Rainy River district versus Atikokan. I know it's wordy and length but they way they've done it with the logo and the umbrella over the top of name it looks very nice and works very well."
Kroomo says it could be up to a year before they can incorporate the name because of the legal process necessary for a name-change.
It's to be called the Rainy River District Women's Shelter of Hope.
Executive Director Donna Kroocmo says the name was selected by the board out of several offered by an Atikokan resident.
"That one stuck with them," says Kroocmo. "and they liked that word 'hope.' They tried to incorporate into the new idea of the Rainy River district versus Atikokan. I know it's wordy and length but they way they've done it with the logo and the umbrella over the top of name it looks very nice and works very well."
Kroomo says it could be up to a year before they can incorporate the name because of the legal process necessary for a name-change.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Local Doctors to Head Physicians Group
A Fort Frances physician is being named to head a provincial physicians' group.
Doctor Robert Algie is to become president of the Ontario Colleges of Family Physician for the next year.
Algie has practiced in the Fort Frances area for the more than 28 years and joined the OCFP board seven years ago and its executive in 2006.
He's to assume the presidency at a conference being held in Toronto this week.
Doctor Robert Algie is to become president of the Ontario Colleges of Family Physician for the next year.
Algie has practiced in the Fort Frances area for the more than 28 years and joined the OCFP board seven years ago and its executive in 2006.
He's to assume the presidency at a conference being held in Toronto this week.
Local Sports for Wednesday November 25
Fort Frances Lakers ended a 7-game losing streak with a 9-6 home win against the Wisconsin Mustangs last night at the Ice for Kids Arena.
Colton Kennedy led the way with three goals with singles coming from Henry Gutierrez , Dwight Lee, Tim Hennessey, Anders Wick, Jordan Carne and Tyler Stevenson.
The two teams combined for 112 shots in the game.
Fort Frances Muskies boys' Hockey team exploded for four goals in the final period to defeat the Dryden Eagles 6-3 in Dryden.
Nathan Calder, Brendan Cawston, Devin Ball, Davis Smith, Jeff Cridland and Jon Cousineau all found the back of the net for the Muskies.
Wes Brown picked up the win between the pipes.
Colton Kennedy led the way with three goals with singles coming from Henry Gutierrez , Dwight Lee, Tim Hennessey, Anders Wick, Jordan Carne and Tyler Stevenson.
The two teams combined for 112 shots in the game.
Fort Frances Muskies boys' Hockey team exploded for four goals in the final period to defeat the Dryden Eagles 6-3 in Dryden.
Nathan Calder, Brendan Cawston, Devin Ball, Davis Smith, Jeff Cridland and Jon Cousineau all found the back of the net for the Muskies.
Wes Brown picked up the win between the pipes.
Local Sports for Tuesday November 24
Fort Frances Lakers will look to crack a 7-game losing streak tonight when they host the Wisconsin Mustangs.
It's the first time the U-S club has visited the Fort.
The Lakers will also be holding a bake sale and toy drive, with fans asked to bring a toy to be donated to the Salvation Army and United Native Friendship Centre.
Game time at the Ice for Kids Arena is 7:30.
Fort Frances Muskies boys hockey team travels to Dryden today for a NORWOSSA contest against the Eagles.
It's the first meeting of the season between those two teams.
It's the first time the U-S club has visited the Fort.
The Lakers will also be holding a bake sale and toy drive, with fans asked to bring a toy to be donated to the Salvation Army and United Native Friendship Centre.
Game time at the Ice for Kids Arena is 7:30.
Fort Frances Muskies boys hockey team travels to Dryden today for a NORWOSSA contest against the Eagles.
It's the first meeting of the season between those two teams.
NEXUS Centre Moving
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is moving its NEXUS Enrollment Center from International Falls to Fort Frances.
The centre is to be located at 301 Scott Street beginning Monday.
The centre serves as an interview site for people seeking applications to the Nexus Card program for crossing border.
The centre was initially set up in International Falls over a year ago.
The centre is to be located at 301 Scott Street beginning Monday.
The centre serves as an interview site for people seeking applications to the Nexus Card program for crossing border.
The centre was initially set up in International Falls over a year ago.
Local Business Owners Get Update on Abitibi
AbitibiBowater's Fort Frances mill manager says the company continues to look at alternative paper production for a machine targeted for closure.
Machine number six is currently operating to deal with customer orders, but is expected to idled by the middle of December.
Speaking yesterday to the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce, John Harrison said that doesn't mean it won't be restarted in the future.
"We continue to search for what other grades that we could trail that we could potentially find something to make on number 6 in the years to come" said Harrison, "so we're not going to give up on number 6."
Harrison also told the gathering he felt AbitibiBowater was still on the right path in its efforts to emerge from credit protection as a stronger company.
Machine number six is currently operating to deal with customer orders, but is expected to idled by the middle of December.
Speaking yesterday to the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce, John Harrison said that doesn't mean it won't be restarted in the future.
"We continue to search for what other grades that we could trail that we could potentially find something to make on number 6 in the years to come" said Harrison, "so we're not going to give up on number 6."
Harrison also told the gathering he felt AbitibiBowater was still on the right path in its efforts to emerge from credit protection as a stronger company.
Ultrasound in Place
The Rainy River Health Centre has now has an ultrasound machine.
Ultrasound equipment technicians were at the health centre last week to provide training for staff and physicians.
Hospital officials says having ultrasound in the emergency department will assist medical staff make accurate diagnoses and set up the required supports and transfers for patients.
Delivery of the machine was made possible through a local fundraising campaign this summer that raised over 50-thousand dollars.
Ultrasound equipment technicians were at the health centre last week to provide training for staff and physicians.
Hospital officials says having ultrasound in the emergency department will assist medical staff make accurate diagnoses and set up the required supports and transfers for patients.
Delivery of the machine was made possible through a local fundraising campaign this summer that raised over 50-thousand dollars.
Surgical Team Recognized
Some recognition for staff in the operating room of LaVerendrye Hospital in Fort Frances.
Riverside Health Care Facilities Surgical Services Team was named best overall performer among non-academic hospitals by McKesson Canada and OR Manager.
Director of Surgical Services Cindy Cole says its testament to the men and women working in the O.R.
"It's the entire team," says Cole. "and we have a great team of surgeons, nurses, anesthetists and housekeeping aids and it's a collaborative effort in how our day progresses through the surgical slate."
The award was given out based on Riverside's ability to meet or exceed a number of key performance areas.
Riverside Health Care Facilities Surgical Services Team was named best overall performer among non-academic hospitals by McKesson Canada and OR Manager.
Director of Surgical Services Cindy Cole says its testament to the men and women working in the O.R.
"It's the entire team," says Cole. "and we have a great team of surgeons, nurses, anesthetists and housekeeping aids and it's a collaborative effort in how our day progresses through the surgical slate."
The award was given out based on Riverside's ability to meet or exceed a number of key performance areas.
Assault Police Incident
An area man remains in custody following an incident in Fort Frances on the weekend.
OPP were called to a downtown establishment Sunday where they learned an intoxicated man involved in a dispute became confrontational when asked to leave.
Police later located the man and placed him under arrest, at which time he became confrontational with police.
The 36-year-old man from Seine River now faces charges of assaulting police and trespassing.
School Bus Accident
A 76-year old man has been charged following an accident yesterday afternoon involving a school bus in Fort Frances.
O-P-P say the driver of a pick-up truck ran a stop sign at the intersection of Minnie Avenue and Second Street East and was struck by the bus that was loaded with children at the time.
None of the children on board, nor the drivers of the two vehicles were injured.
There was no damage to the bus, and only minor damage to the truck.
O-P-P say the driver of a pick-up truck ran a stop sign at the intersection of Minnie Avenue and Second Street East and was struck by the bus that was loaded with children at the time.
None of the children on board, nor the drivers of the two vehicles were injured.
There was no damage to the bus, and only minor damage to the truck.
Young Mayors Speak Out
Young mayor hopefuls had their say at Fort Frances town council last night.
The winners of a Local Government Week essay contest sponsored by the town spoke on what they would do if they were mayor.
St. Francis School Grade 5 student Emma Noga said the town's finances would be focus of her attention.
"When we talk about money, I would make wise choices and spent it on things we need like schools and orphanages, " said Emma. "Also sometimes on parks and playgrounds."
Emma said she'd also promote more environmental-friendly buildings and transportation.
Robert Moore School Grade 5 student Maddison Krikke said one of her goals would be to restore Pither's Point Park.
"I would bring the lifeguards back to work at the beach in the summer," said Maddison. "I clean it up and get people to help because I think they would like it. There's a hotel there now. All that's needed is a beautiful beach like it was before."
Maddison also proposed developing a small zoo and making the community more environmentally friendly.
The winners of a Local Government Week essay contest sponsored by the town spoke on what they would do if they were mayor.
St. Francis School Grade 5 student Emma Noga said the town's finances would be focus of her attention.
"When we talk about money, I would make wise choices and spent it on things we need like schools and orphanages, " said Emma. "Also sometimes on parks and playgrounds."
Emma said she'd also promote more environmental-friendly buildings and transportation.
Robert Moore School Grade 5 student Maddison Krikke said one of her goals would be to restore Pither's Point Park.
"I would bring the lifeguards back to work at the beach in the summer," said Maddison. "I clean it up and get people to help because I think they would like it. There's a hotel there now. All that's needed is a beautiful beach like it was before."
Maddison also proposed developing a small zoo and making the community more environmentally friendly.
HST Protest Continues
The premier says he looks forward to seeing the Tories in the legislature today so they can continue their debate over the controversial HST.
Monday, the Progressive Conservatives stormed out of the legislature in a protest over the merged tax after their Leader Tim Hudak tried to unsuccessfully get the premier to hold public hearings on the legislation.
The New Democrats say the Tories should do more than walk out of question period to protest the harmonized sales tax.
NDP Leader Andrea Horwath says the Conservatives should convince their federal cousins in Ottawa to abandon the plan to harmonize sales taxes.
Monday, the Progressive Conservatives stormed out of the legislature in a protest over the merged tax after their Leader Tim Hudak tried to unsuccessfully get the premier to hold public hearings on the legislation.
The New Democrats say the Tories should do more than walk out of question period to protest the harmonized sales tax.
NDP Leader Andrea Horwath says the Conservatives should convince their federal cousins in Ottawa to abandon the plan to harmonize sales taxes.
Student Drug and Alcohol Use Studied
Northern Ontario students use cannabis and alcohol more than their provincial counterparts.
That according to the Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey.
Dr. Robert Mann says students in the region are binge drinking more than the rest of Ontario as well.
"In the north about 32-per cent of students in the grades 7 to 12 reported at least one binge drinking in the past month compared to about 25-per cent in the province." says Dr. Mann.
The study also found 64-per cent of northern students to drink alcohol while 32-per cent used marijuana.
That according to the Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey.
Dr. Robert Mann says students in the region are binge drinking more than the rest of Ontario as well.
"In the north about 32-per cent of students in the grades 7 to 12 reported at least one binge drinking in the past month compared to about 25-per cent in the province." says Dr. Mann.
The study also found 64-per cent of northern students to drink alcohol while 32-per cent used marijuana.
Human Remains Investigated
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.
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.
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.
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