There will be fewer flowers planted at town parks and cemeteries next year.
The town of Fort Frances will purchase 4,500 dozen flowers from Lowey's Greenhouse for next season at a cost of about $13-thousand.
This year the town purchased 5,100 dozen flowers which cost about $13,500.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Shevling Purchased
The town of Fort Frances will pay more than $107-thousand for shelving at the new library and technology centre.
Carr McLean Limited was awarded a contract for the shelving at Monday night's council meeting.
Carr McLean Limited was awarded a contract for the shelving at Monday night's council meeting.
Vote by Mail Accepted
Residents of Fort Frances will be able to vote by mail in the 2010 municipal elections.
Council approved the method in a by-law Monday.
Mail-in ballots were first introduced to Fort Frances in the 2000 municipal election.
Council approved the method in a by-law Monday.
Mail-in ballots were first introduced to Fort Frances in the 2000 municipal election.
Donations Flood In
There's been an overwhelming response to Family and Children Services Rainy River call for donations for the Pikangikum First Nation.
Jacquee Loerzell estimates nearly seven thousand pounds worth of children's clothing and food items have been received.
"It went amazing," says Loerzell. "We're absolutely shocked at how much stuff we ended up collected for the community and how absolutely the (local) community has been to us over the past few weeks."
Loerzell says they're now looking to either fly and truck the items to the reserve by mid-January.
Jacquee Loerzell estimates nearly seven thousand pounds worth of children's clothing and food items have been received.
"It went amazing," says Loerzell. "We're absolutely shocked at how much stuff we ended up collected for the community and how absolutely the (local) community has been to us over the past few weeks."
Loerzell says they're now looking to either fly and truck the items to the reserve by mid-January.
Teacher Talks Break Off
Negotiations with the province's nine-thousand community college teachers has broken off and no new talks are expected.
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union says that leaves it no choice but to plan for a January 13 strike vote.
OPSEU president Warren "Smokey" Thomas says for the second time in two weeks their bargaining team came forward with significant changes to their position.
The union represents faculty at 24 community colleges, including those at Confederation College and its Fort Frances campus.
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union says that leaves it no choice but to plan for a January 13 strike vote.
OPSEU president Warren "Smokey" Thomas says for the second time in two weeks their bargaining team came forward with significant changes to their position.
The union represents faculty at 24 community colleges, including those at Confederation College and its Fort Frances campus.
Crown Corporations Up for Sale?
Ontario's best known Crown corporations may be going on the block.
The Globe and Mail says the McGuinty government has hired two financial companies to look into selling some of the Crown agencies to help cut down the 25-billion dollar deficit.
The paper says Hydro One, Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, the LCBO and Ontario Power Generation could be sold off.
The Globe and Mail says the McGuinty government has hired two financial companies to look into selling some of the Crown agencies to help cut down the 25-billion dollar deficit.
The paper says Hydro One, Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, the LCBO and Ontario Power Generation could be sold off.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Local Sports for Tuesday December 15
Fort Frances Muskies boys' basketball and girls' volleyball teams opened their NORWOSSA yesterday with home games against Dryden.
The senior boys' basketball team beat the Eagles 64-28 while the junior boys were 68-24 winners.
Both the senior and junior girls' volleyball teams lost to Dryden in 3-sets.
All four teams are in Kenora today.
In the Falls, the Broncos girls' basketball team beat Chisholm 52-41.
The boys team will play Chisholm tonight - 7:30 at the high School.
In bantam girls hockey last night, BDO Dunwoody Stars defeated Energy Wild 4-2.
Katie Sinclair and Shelby Tymkin each scored a pair for the Stars.
Shelby Rea and Sarah Milling replied for the Wild.
Fort Frances Canadians Midget AA hockey team will travel to Grand Rapids tonight.
On the weekend, the Canadians placed seventh at the Spirit of Duluth Hockey Tournament, winning once, losing twice and tying another.
High School hockey tonight sees the Fort Frances Muskies boys' hockey team travelling to Kenora for a NORWOSSA game against the Beaver Brae Broncos.
In the Falls, the Broncos boys' hockey team hosts Lake of the Woods - 7:30 at Bronco Arena.
The girls' hockey team is in Hibbing.
The Fort Frances Lakers will host the Dryden Ice Dogs - 7:30 at the Ice for Kids Arena.
Former Fort Frances Sabres Ryan Faragher has been named goaltender of the month for November in the North American Hockey League.
Faragher is now a member of the Bismarck Bobcats and went 3-0-2 during the month.
The senior boys' basketball team beat the Eagles 64-28 while the junior boys were 68-24 winners.
Both the senior and junior girls' volleyball teams lost to Dryden in 3-sets.
All four teams are in Kenora today.
In the Falls, the Broncos girls' basketball team beat Chisholm 52-41.
The boys team will play Chisholm tonight - 7:30 at the high School.
In bantam girls hockey last night, BDO Dunwoody Stars defeated Energy Wild 4-2.
Katie Sinclair and Shelby Tymkin each scored a pair for the Stars.
Shelby Rea and Sarah Milling replied for the Wild.
Fort Frances Canadians Midget AA hockey team will travel to Grand Rapids tonight.
On the weekend, the Canadians placed seventh at the Spirit of Duluth Hockey Tournament, winning once, losing twice and tying another.
High School hockey tonight sees the Fort Frances Muskies boys' hockey team travelling to Kenora for a NORWOSSA game against the Beaver Brae Broncos.
In the Falls, the Broncos boys' hockey team hosts Lake of the Woods - 7:30 at Bronco Arena.
The girls' hockey team is in Hibbing.
The Fort Frances Lakers will host the Dryden Ice Dogs - 7:30 at the Ice for Kids Arena.
Former Fort Frances Sabres Ryan Faragher has been named goaltender of the month for November in the North American Hockey League.
Faragher is now a member of the Bismarck Bobcats and went 3-0-2 during the month.
Skills Development Funding Issued
Several first nations communities in the Rainy River District will share in funding being provided by the provincial government for aboriginal economic development and skills development training.
Almost $700-thousand dollars will go to Nigigoonsiminikaaning, Big Grassy River, Naicatchewenin, Rainy River, Onigaming and Stanjikoming First Nations.
Seven Generations Education Institute also received $75-thousand.
Almost $700-thousand dollars will go to Nigigoonsiminikaaning, Big Grassy River, Naicatchewenin, Rainy River, Onigaming and Stanjikoming First Nations.
Seven Generations Education Institute also received $75-thousand.
Payday Loan Concerns
Consumer activists say a move by the Ontario government to cap rates on payday loan companies will hurt the people who use the services.
Starting today, payday loan firms can charge a maximum of 21 dollars for every 100 dollars borrowed.
John Lawford of the Public Interest Advocacy Centre says that works out to 700 per cent annually.
Starting today, payday loan firms can charge a maximum of 21 dollars for every 100 dollars borrowed.
John Lawford of the Public Interest Advocacy Centre says that works out to 700 per cent annually.
Essay Winner Makes Presentation
Another winner of the town of Fort Frances' local government week essay contest made her say at last night's council meeting.
Grade 10 student Carly Pruys commented on the town's friendly atmosphere among its business community as a plus for the town.
"Whenever you walk into the majority of the stores here you will almost always be greeted with a 'How are you today? Can I help you with something?', and a smile," said Pruys. "It seems that the many people will go out of their way to help you if you're in need."
Pruys added that even though young people do move away, many return in later years.
HMCS Fort Frances Presentation
A photograph of HMCS Fort Frances will now be on display at the Fort Frances Civic Centre.
Town council was presented the photo in a presentation last night.
Lieutenant Terry Newman explained the ships history.
"Commissioned at Port Arthur on October 28, 1944, she arrived at Halifax on November 26, and sailed for Bermuda in January, 1945 to work up," said Newman. "Returning to Halifax, Fort Frances served briefly with escort groups W-8 and W-9 of Western Escort Force before being paid off into maintenance reserve on August 3, 1945. She was again in commission from October 23, 1945 to April 5, 1946, and in 1948 was handed over to the Department of Mines and Technical Surveys as a hydrographic survey ship. In 1958 she reverted to naval service as a civilian-manned oceanographic research vessel. She was sold for breaking-up in 1974."
The presentation was part of the Canadian Navy 100 anniversary celebrations taking place in 2010.
Student Loans Defaulted
New data from the Minnesota Department of Education says almost 29 per cent students who borrow loans to attend Rainy River Community College defaulted on their loans.
The school is listed as having the second-highest default rate in the state.
Overall, six percent of students in Minnesota who took out government education loans are in default, compared with the national average of 12 per cent.
The school is listed as having the second-highest default rate in the state.
Overall, six percent of students in Minnesota who took out government education loans are in default, compared with the national average of 12 per cent.
Committee Members Named
Three area residents have been appointed to two town of Fort Frances committees.
John McTaggart will serve on the town's Economic Development Advisory Committee.
Robin Dennis and Catherine Cuthbertson were appointed to the new Sunny Cove Camp Advisory Committee.
Terms for all three individuals will end next November.
John McTaggart will serve on the town's Economic Development Advisory Committee.
Robin Dennis and Catherine Cuthbertson were appointed to the new Sunny Cove Camp Advisory Committee.
Terms for all three individuals will end next November.
Council Agrees to New Light
Fort Frances town council has agreed to install a new street light in front of the Bethel Baptist Church on Morrison Crescent.
Council agreed to the light after the church and area residents raised one-thousand dollars towards the capital costs.
In agreeing to the light, council is hoping the church to will make a sincere effort to raise the remaining 800 dollars for the project.
Council agreed to the light after the church and area residents raised one-thousand dollars towards the capital costs.
In agreeing to the light, council is hoping the church to will make a sincere effort to raise the remaining 800 dollars for the project.
Lakers Requests to be Discussed
A request for lower rental fees and financial assistance for the Fort Frances Lakers junior A hockey club will get a review today by members of Fort Frances administration and finance committee.
The Lakers put forward their requests back in September.
Administration is recommending council agree to a package that was similarly offered to former owners of the Fort Frances Sabres which included ice rentals at the youth rate, a 25 per cent cut in pool and fitness centre memberships and that the town consider a sponsorship package in its 2010 budget.
The Lakers put forward their requests back in September.
Administration is recommending council agree to a package that was similarly offered to former owners of the Fort Frances Sabres which included ice rentals at the youth rate, a 25 per cent cut in pool and fitness centre memberships and that the town consider a sponsorship package in its 2010 budget.
Skate Sharpening Proposal Denied
Fort Frances council rejected last night a proposal from a area man to establish a skate-sharpening operation at the Memorial Sports Centre.
Councillor Andrew Hallikas says Paul Cousineau's proposal wasn't fully complete.
"The proposal didn't match what was original given to us," says Hallikas. "It wasn't clear to us what items, for instance, were to be sold. It wasn't a complete proposal."
Some councillors also felt the town would be unfairly subsidizing a business to operate in the Sports Centre if they accepted the proposal.
Councillor Andrew Hallikas says Paul Cousineau's proposal wasn't fully complete.
"The proposal didn't match what was original given to us," says Hallikas. "It wasn't clear to us what items, for instance, were to be sold. It wasn't a complete proposal."
Some councillors also felt the town would be unfairly subsidizing a business to operate in the Sports Centre if they accepted the proposal.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Local Sports for Monday December 14
In the S-I-J-H-L, Fort Frances Lakers fell 8-5 to the K & A Wolverines.
The Lakers gave up 7 goals in the second period alone.
Fort Frances Muskies boys hockey team ran its unbeaten record in NORWOSSA play to 7-0 with a 9-2 thrashing of Kenora's Beaver Brae Broncos.
Meantime, the Muskies girls hockey team went 2-2 at tournament in Portage La Prairie, finishing fourth overall.
Jon McDonald scored his second of the night 44 seconds into overtime to give the International Falls Broncos boys hockey team a 4-3 win over Proctor on Saturday.
Alex Bruess scored the Broncos other two goals.
The Broncos girls team lost to Proctor on Saturday 4-3.
Boston Pizza Pee-Wee AA team earned silver at a tournament in Kenora.
The Fort Frances club loss 2-1 in the final to Dryden with Tyler Van Uden scoring for Boston Pizza.
Rainy River Voyageurs' women's hockey team split a pair of games with St. Scholastic in Duluth, winning 5-2 Saturday before dropping a 3-1 decision Sunday.
Scoring for the Voyageurs Saturday were Stevie-Lee Langford, Cassandra Cochrane, Kyla Thorne and Brenley Anderson with a pair.
Cochrane had the lone goal Sunday.
In girls hockey, the Nor-Fab Flames Peewee Girls Rep team beat the Fort Frances Lions Peewee Boys 8-2.
Madisyn DeGagne had a hat trick for the Flames with Amber Jourdain, Amy Penner and Kendal Bruyere scoring a pair each.
Jessica Coran and Rachel Jean adding singles.
A.J. Revus and Brendan Johnson scored for the Lions.
Two third period goals help rally Dryden to 2-1 win over the Fort Frances Leafs in one of two bantam girls division consolation games at a tournament in Thunder Bay.
Shilo Beck scored for the Leafs who went 1-1-1 in round robin play.
Scores from Fort Frances Girls Hockey Association on the weekend.
Fort Frances Super 8 defeated Lakewood Tire Eagles 5 - 2.
Madisyn Degagne had four goals for Super 8 while Myla Angus added the other.
Amy Penner had both goals for the Eagles.
Super 8 also played the International Falls Under 12 peewee team, losing 6-2.
Amber Jourdain and Taylor Degagne scoring for Super 8.
Taylor Zawchenuk with 2, Ashley Johnson, Kylie Skallman, Abby Auran and Jenna Anderson scored for the Falls.
In Atom play, Rolling Lake Lightning lost 5-4 to the International Falls under 10 team.
Lexi Edwards had all 5 goals for the Falls.
Annalise Hayes, Bryanna Dustin, Hanna Ledrew and Lauren Hamilton scored for the Lightning.
On the hardwood, International Falls Broncos boys basketball team is now 2-0 following a 60-42 win over Cook Friday night.
Rainy River Voyageur's men's and women's basketball teams were shutout on the weekend.
The women lost 76-68 to St. Cloud Friday night before dropping a 103-62 decision to Anoka-Ramsay on Saturday afternoon.
The men's fell 73-62 to St. Cloud Tech and 102-89 to Anoka-Ramsay.
The Lakers gave up 7 goals in the second period alone.
Fort Frances Muskies boys hockey team ran its unbeaten record in NORWOSSA play to 7-0 with a 9-2 thrashing of Kenora's Beaver Brae Broncos.
Meantime, the Muskies girls hockey team went 2-2 at tournament in Portage La Prairie, finishing fourth overall.
Jon McDonald scored his second of the night 44 seconds into overtime to give the International Falls Broncos boys hockey team a 4-3 win over Proctor on Saturday.
Alex Bruess scored the Broncos other two goals.
The Broncos girls team lost to Proctor on Saturday 4-3.
Boston Pizza Pee-Wee AA team earned silver at a tournament in Kenora.
The Fort Frances club loss 2-1 in the final to Dryden with Tyler Van Uden scoring for Boston Pizza.
Rainy River Voyageurs' women's hockey team split a pair of games with St. Scholastic in Duluth, winning 5-2 Saturday before dropping a 3-1 decision Sunday.
Scoring for the Voyageurs Saturday were Stevie-Lee Langford, Cassandra Cochrane, Kyla Thorne and Brenley Anderson with a pair.
Cochrane had the lone goal Sunday.
In girls hockey, the Nor-Fab Flames Peewee Girls Rep team beat the Fort Frances Lions Peewee Boys 8-2.
Madisyn DeGagne had a hat trick for the Flames with Amber Jourdain, Amy Penner and Kendal Bruyere scoring a pair each.
Jessica Coran and Rachel Jean adding singles.
A.J. Revus and Brendan Johnson scored for the Lions.
Two third period goals help rally Dryden to 2-1 win over the Fort Frances Leafs in one of two bantam girls division consolation games at a tournament in Thunder Bay.
Shilo Beck scored for the Leafs who went 1-1-1 in round robin play.
Scores from Fort Frances Girls Hockey Association on the weekend.
Fort Frances Super 8 defeated Lakewood Tire Eagles 5 - 2.
Madisyn Degagne had four goals for Super 8 while Myla Angus added the other.
Amy Penner had both goals for the Eagles.
Super 8 also played the International Falls Under 12 peewee team, losing 6-2.
Amber Jourdain and Taylor Degagne scoring for Super 8.
Taylor Zawchenuk with 2, Ashley Johnson, Kylie Skallman, Abby Auran and Jenna Anderson scored for the Falls.
In Atom play, Rolling Lake Lightning lost 5-4 to the International Falls under 10 team.
Lexi Edwards had all 5 goals for the Falls.
Annalise Hayes, Bryanna Dustin, Hanna Ledrew and Lauren Hamilton scored for the Lightning.
On the hardwood, International Falls Broncos boys basketball team is now 2-0 following a 60-42 win over Cook Friday night.
Rainy River Voyageur's men's and women's basketball teams were shutout on the weekend.
The women lost 76-68 to St. Cloud Friday night before dropping a 103-62 decision to Anoka-Ramsay on Saturday afternoon.
The men's fell 73-62 to St. Cloud Tech and 102-89 to Anoka-Ramsay.
Flu Cases Decline
The immunization campaign for the H1N1 virus seems to be paying dividends for the Northwestern Health Unit.
The number of new cases in the region dropped to just one in the past week.
The number of new cases in the region dropped to just one in the past week.
Platinex Gives Up Mining Claims
Platinum exploration company Platinex Inc. has given up its claim to a disputed platinum project on First Nations land in northern Ontario in exchange for $5 million.
The company says it has an agreement with the Ontario government to resolve its litigation against the province and the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, or KI, First Nation over its Big Trout Lake exploration property.
Platinex was suing Ontario and the KI First Nation because KI was allegedly preventing the company from gaining access to its claims at Big Trout Lake.
The company claimed the province failed in its duty to consult with KI and also failed to warn Platinex that it wouldn't enforce the land claims.
Platinex was seeking more than $70 million from the province.
The government also says it will withdraw the KI lands from future staking and mineral exploration opportunities.
The company says it has an agreement with the Ontario government to resolve its litigation against the province and the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, or KI, First Nation over its Big Trout Lake exploration property.
Platinex was suing Ontario and the KI First Nation because KI was allegedly preventing the company from gaining access to its claims at Big Trout Lake.
The company claimed the province failed in its duty to consult with KI and also failed to warn Platinex that it wouldn't enforce the land claims.
Platinex was seeking more than $70 million from the province.
The government also says it will withdraw the KI lands from future staking and mineral exploration opportunities.
Power Outage Sunday
The failure of a piece of equipment designed to provide protection from electrical surges is blamed for a power outage that impacted much of Fort Frances' west end yesterday morning.
The outage occurred about 9 a.m.
Residents and businesses along Colonization Road West, Kings Highway and Boundary Road were in the dark for about an hour before crews with the Fort Frances Power Corporation were able to get power restored.
The outage occurred about 9 a.m.
Residents and businesses along Colonization Road West, Kings Highway and Boundary Road were in the dark for about an hour before crews with the Fort Frances Power Corporation were able to get power restored.
CN Rail Arbitration
Unresolved wage and benefits issues affecting CN train engineers are being submitted to binding arbitration.
The decision was made after renewed talks between the company and Teamsters Canada ended Sunday without a settlement.
A strike by the engineers was settled on December 2, but the issues of wages and benefits were left unresolved.
The decision was made after renewed talks between the company and Teamsters Canada ended Sunday without a settlement.
A strike by the engineers was settled on December 2, but the issues of wages and benefits were left unresolved.
HST Negative Impact Disputed
A study by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives says Ontario's harmonized sales tax is "virtually revenue neutral'' and not the cash grab critics say it is.
The report to be released today finds low- and modest-income families will come out slightly ahead under the Liberals' HST package which includes increased property and sales tax credits and income tax cuts.
Households with incomes above $100-thousand a year come out just slightly behind.
The report to be released today finds low- and modest-income families will come out slightly ahead under the Liberals' HST package which includes increased property and sales tax credits and income tax cuts.
Households with incomes above $100-thousand a year come out just slightly behind.
Ontario Economy to Grow
A new report is predicting Ontario's economy to return to growth in 2010.
RBC Economics indicates Ontario's economy to grow 2-point-4 per cent next year and another 4 per cent in 2011.
An RBC official says rising U.S. demand for products, along with stimulus measures and low interest rates will contribute to the growth.
RBC Economics indicates Ontario's economy to grow 2-point-4 per cent next year and another 4 per cent in 2011.
An RBC official says rising U.S. demand for products, along with stimulus measures and low interest rates will contribute to the growth.
Child Care Concerns
Early childhood educators in Ontario are anxiously waiting to see what will happen to their jobs, their centres and their profession once full-day kindergarten begins in September.
Eduarda Sousa, of the Association of Early Childhood Educators Ontario, says some communities are fearing the removal of programs and staff.
The province is moving ahead with a program that will enrol about 35-thousand kids in full-day kindergarten.
Eduarda Sousa, of the Association of Early Childhood Educators Ontario, says some communities are fearing the removal of programs and staff.
The province is moving ahead with a program that will enrol about 35-thousand kids in full-day kindergarten.
Council Meets Tonight
A lengthy meeting for members of Fort Frances town council tonight.
Council will first meet for nearly 90 minutes in-camera on a number of matters.
When the public session begins at about 6:30 p.m., among items up for discussion include a financial request from the Fort Frances Lakers, and a by-law that will permit the uses of mail-in ballot in next October's municipal election.
Council will first meet for nearly 90 minutes in-camera on a number of matters.
When the public session begins at about 6:30 p.m., among items up for discussion include a financial request from the Fort Frances Lakers, and a by-law that will permit the uses of mail-in ballot in next October's municipal election.
Exploration Activity Continues
Rainy River Resources has started some of the work that could lead to the possible opening of a mine northwest of Emo.
President Raymond Threlkeld says work has started on an economic impact assessment and a baseline environmental studies.
"We'll have a completed baseline study report finished in June, or the end of the second quarter," says Threlkeld. "That will enable us to move forward into a formal environmental assessment and environmental impact assessment."
Although actual mining is still a few years away, Threlkeld says they are looking at a project with multiple mines, starting with an open pit before going to an underground operation.
President Raymond Threlkeld says work has started on an economic impact assessment and a baseline environmental studies.
"We'll have a completed baseline study report finished in June, or the end of the second quarter," says Threlkeld. "That will enable us to move forward into a formal environmental assessment and environmental impact assessment."
Although actual mining is still a few years away, Threlkeld says they are looking at a project with multiple mines, starting with an open pit before going to an underground operation.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Local Sports for Thursday December 10
Fort Frances Lakers ended a four-game road trip last night with its fourth loss in as many games.
Last night it was a 7-4 decision to the Dryden Ice Dogs in Dryden.
The Lakers held a 3-1 lead midway through the second before the Dogs scored five straight.
Colton Kennedy had a pair of goals for the Lakers with singles coming from Tyler Stevenson and Mike Jourdain.
The Lakers will begin a 3-game homestand this Saturday with a game against the K & A Wolverines.
The International Falls Broncos girls hockey team is in Baudette tonight to the face the Lake of the Woods Bears.
The Broncos are 2-0-1 in their last three games.
Fort Frances Muskies senior boys basketball team will kick off a tournament at the high school tonight with a game against the Lake of the Woods Bears from Baudette.
Game time is 7 p.m.
A total of six teams are entered.
Last night it was a 7-4 decision to the Dryden Ice Dogs in Dryden.
The Lakers held a 3-1 lead midway through the second before the Dogs scored five straight.
Colton Kennedy had a pair of goals for the Lakers with singles coming from Tyler Stevenson and Mike Jourdain.
The Lakers will begin a 3-game homestand this Saturday with a game against the K & A Wolverines.
The International Falls Broncos girls hockey team is in Baudette tonight to the face the Lake of the Woods Bears.
The Broncos are 2-0-1 in their last three games.
Fort Frances Muskies senior boys basketball team will kick off a tournament at the high school tonight with a game against the Lake of the Woods Bears from Baudette.
Game time is 7 p.m.
A total of six teams are entered.
Conservation Officers Recognized
Several conservation officers from across northwestern Ontario have exemplary service medals from the provincial government.
Among them, retired peace officer David Lyons of Atikokan who was handed an award for thirty years of service.
William Michael Veniot, a Conservation Officer and Dave Saunders an Enforcement Supervisor in Fort Frances were recognized for 20-years of service.
Among them, retired peace officer David Lyons of Atikokan who was handed an award for thirty years of service.
William Michael Veniot, a Conservation Officer and Dave Saunders an Enforcement Supervisor in Fort Frances were recognized for 20-years of service.
New NOMA Executive Director
The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association has a new executive director.
Charla Robinson takes over from Tom Wilson who stepped down earlier this year.
Robinson formerly worked as an executive assistant to former Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP Ken Boshcoff.
She was also Director of Membership Services for the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce.
Charla Robinson takes over from Tom Wilson who stepped down earlier this year.
Robinson formerly worked as an executive assistant to former Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP Ken Boshcoff.
She was also Director of Membership Services for the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce.
Palladium Mine to Re-open
The restart of North American Palladium's Lac des Iles mine is expected to give northwestern Ontario an economic boost.
The company says higher palladium prices has allowed it to put its "flagship'' north of the Thunder Bay mine back into production early in 2010.
About 150 people are to be hired and people who used to work at the operation are being contacted about returning.
The company says higher palladium prices has allowed it to put its "flagship'' north of the Thunder Bay mine back into production early in 2010.
About 150 people are to be hired and people who used to work at the operation are being contacted about returning.
Board Meetings Revised
Trustees with the Northwest Catholic District School Board will now be holding face-to-face meetings in every community represented by the Board.
The board will now hold five face-to-face meetings along with five video-conferencing sessions during the course of the school year.
Education director Mary-Catherine Kelly says it reflects the recent addition of Atikokan to its jurisdiction.
The trustees are planned to meet in Atikokan in May.
The board will now hold five face-to-face meetings along with five video-conferencing sessions during the course of the school year.
Education director Mary-Catherine Kelly says it reflects the recent addition of Atikokan to its jurisdiction.
The trustees are planned to meet in Atikokan in May.
Pension Changes Announced
Ontario is moving ahead with the first pension changes in 20 years, aimed at creating a system that will be better able to withstand economic turmoil.
The changes will clarify benefits for people who are affected by layoffs, eliminate partial pension windups, and make it easier for plans to restructure when companies do.
Finance Minister Dwight Duncan says the legislation will also enhance regulatory oversight and make it easier for plan members and pensioners to access information.
The changes will clarify benefits for people who are affected by layoffs, eliminate partial pension windups, and make it easier for plans to restructure when companies do.
Finance Minister Dwight Duncan says the legislation will also enhance regulatory oversight and make it easier for plan members and pensioners to access information.
Second Career Changes
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says a change in the eligibility criteria to access the provincial retraining program Second Career will prohibit many from participating.
Hampton says the change announced in November would drastically reduce the 130 people now take part in the program through Northern Community Development Services.
"Under the more restrictive criteria introduced on November 20, only 12 of those 130 individuals would qualify for job retraining and skills development," says Hampton, "nearly 120 out of 130 laid-off workers abandoned by the McGuinty Liberals."
Universities and Colleges Minister John Milloy says the new criteria is focused on those who would benefit from it the most and estimates an additional 8,000 laid-off workers across the province will have gain access to the program.
Hampton says the change announced in November would drastically reduce the 130 people now take part in the program through Northern Community Development Services.
"Under the more restrictive criteria introduced on November 20, only 12 of those 130 individuals would qualify for job retraining and skills development," says Hampton, "nearly 120 out of 130 laid-off workers abandoned by the McGuinty Liberals."
Universities and Colleges Minister John Milloy says the new criteria is focused on those who would benefit from it the most and estimates an additional 8,000 laid-off workers across the province will have gain access to the program.
Federal Support for HST
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.
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.
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.
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