An officer with the Fort Frances detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police will finally receive his medal of bravery tomorrow.
Constable Dan Bailey will receive the medal at a ceremony in Ottawa from Governor-General Michael Jean.
Bailey was cited for the medal back in December 2008 for his August 2006 actions while off duty in which he rescued two woman from an overturned, burning vehicle in Elgin, Ontario.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Mine Centre Construction Costs
The Rainy River District School Board says it will proceed with caution on plans to replace its school in Mine Centre.
Construction estimates have come in at about $1.7 million more than the $4.8 million being provided by the Ministry of Education.
Education Director Jack McMaster says the board is in talks with Ministry staff on the costs, but is committed to replacing the school.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Winter Roads Open
Traffic is flowing on vital winter transportation links to remote First Nations across northwestern Ontario.
A frigid December and chilly January has meant an early start to winter road construction.
Winter roads connect 31 remote communities to the province's permanent highway and rail systems.
A frigid December and chilly January has meant an early start to winter road construction.
Winter roads connect 31 remote communities to the province's permanent highway and rail systems.
Prorogation Considered in Ontario
Premier Dalton McGuinty admits the backlash against Prime Minister Stephen Harper's decision to prorogue Parliament is on his mind as he considers adjourning the legislature.
Thousands of people attended rallies across Canada last month to protest Harper's decision to shut down Parliament until early March,a move widely condemned by the opposition parties.
McGuinty says one of the political challenges he's now facing is that "prorogation has become a bad thing.''
McGuinty says he hasn't made a decision yet about suspending the legislature, which is due to resume sitting February 16.
Sources say if he does prorogue, it would be only for a couple of weeks, to return in early March with a throne speech outlining the government's agenda heading up to the 2011 provincial election.
NDP Seek Forestry Support
Federal NDP want some immediate action from the federal government for Canada's forestry industry.
NDP Forestry Critic John Rafferty says it starts with a negotiated end to the U.S. Biomass Crop Assistance Program subsidy.
“The U.S. government continues to deliver billions of dollars in tax loopholes and subsidies for their forestry sector, such as the lapsed Black Liquor regime and the new Biomass Crop Assistance Plan, and the Harper government’s response to this practice has ranged from too late to non-existent,” says Rafferty.
“With more than 275,000 jobs at stake, the choice is simple: save money and get ahead of the problem by negotiating with the Obama administration to end this sort of subsidy, or match the subsidies later for Canadian mills to prevent closures.”
In September, 2009, the U.S. Biomass Crop Assistance Program began providing subsidies for the supply of wood biomass for direct or indirect use as a renewable fuel. Natural Resources Canada estimates the program will pay subsidies of $3-10 billion to U.S. mills.
The Thunder Bay-Rainy River M-P says they also want Finance Minister Jim Flaherty to help AbitibiBowater and the Communications Energy and Paperworkers Union resolve their pension shortfall.
Rafferty says it was something the minister promised last fall, but to date there has been no such meeting.
NDP Forestry Critic John Rafferty says it starts with a negotiated end to the U.S. Biomass Crop Assistance Program subsidy.
“The U.S. government continues to deliver billions of dollars in tax loopholes and subsidies for their forestry sector, such as the lapsed Black Liquor regime and the new Biomass Crop Assistance Plan, and the Harper government’s response to this practice has ranged from too late to non-existent,” says Rafferty.
“With more than 275,000 jobs at stake, the choice is simple: save money and get ahead of the problem by negotiating with the Obama administration to end this sort of subsidy, or match the subsidies later for Canadian mills to prevent closures.”
In September, 2009, the U.S. Biomass Crop Assistance Program began providing subsidies for the supply of wood biomass for direct or indirect use as a renewable fuel. Natural Resources Canada estimates the program will pay subsidies of $3-10 billion to U.S. mills.
The Thunder Bay-Rainy River M-P says they also want Finance Minister Jim Flaherty to help AbitibiBowater and the Communications Energy and Paperworkers Union resolve their pension shortfall.
Rafferty says it was something the minister promised last fall, but to date there has been no such meeting.
College Strike Date Set
A provincial mediator has been appointed to try and head off a strike by college teachers in Ontario.
The union has set a strike date of February 11 but Premier Dalton McGuinty is asking both sides to sit down and reach a negotiated settlement.
A strike would curtail classes for at least 200-thousand full-time students, including that at Confederation College's campus in Fort Frances.
Ted Montgomery of the OPSEU bargaining team says they are prepared to find alternatives that can keep the students in classes.
The union rejected a "final'' offer from the colleges last week and refused to take it directly to teachers for a vote.
OPSEU says it will call off the strike if the colleges agree to go to binding arbitration.
A spokesman for the 24 colleges says they will "seriously'' review the union's proposal.
Key issues for the union are workload and academic freedom.
The union has set a strike date of February 11 but Premier Dalton McGuinty is asking both sides to sit down and reach a negotiated settlement.
A strike would curtail classes for at least 200-thousand full-time students, including that at Confederation College's campus in Fort Frances.
Ted Montgomery of the OPSEU bargaining team says they are prepared to find alternatives that can keep the students in classes.
The union rejected a "final'' offer from the colleges last week and refused to take it directly to teachers for a vote.
OPSEU says it will call off the strike if the colleges agree to go to binding arbitration.
A spokesman for the 24 colleges says they will "seriously'' review the union's proposal.
Key issues for the union are workload and academic freedom.
Gold Mine in Works
Rainy River Resources says it will have a better indication on its plans for a gold mine in the Rainy River district by end of this year or early next.
Outlining the company's plans to delegates attending the Rainy River Municipal Association meeting on the weekend, vice-president Garett MacDonald said the company is embarking on technical and environmental studies to help them in that decision.
"By the time we get through the technical evaluations often these projects can take two years to construct from the time we decide to build them," said MacDonald. "Prior to that of course, the environmental assessment has to happen. So if everything goes well, the project could be in production by 2014."
MacDonald said they've also explored about 30 per cent of the area northwest of Emo to date. far.
Service Review Planned
A review of services within the town of Fort Frances will be undertaken by town councillors.It's an attempt to find additional savings as they works toward the 2010 budget.
Councillor Paul Ryan says they've been left with no choice but to see if cuts can be made.
"There's no choice," says Ryan. "We've hit the wall. In the past couple of years our budgets have been very, very close to the actual where in years past they've shot a little high and had a reserve at the end. We don't have that anymore."
The budget shortfall has been trimmed to about 246-thousand, but does not include provisions for capital spending or money set aside to reserves.
Fort Frances councillors also began a line-by-line review of the proposed capital budget at last night's budget meeting.
About $10.2 million dollars worth of projects have been identified with operations and facilities accounting for nearly 70 per cent of that total.
Councillors will tackle that list when the budget discussions continue tomorrow.
Monday, February 1, 2010
UltraMarathon Underway
More than one-hundred participants braved the elements for the start of the Arrowhead 135 Winter Ultramarathon this morning.
The participants, one from as far away as Singapore, must bike, ski or run or walk the 135 miles from Kerry Park Arena in International Falls to Fortune Bay Casino along the Arrowhead Trail and finish under 60 hours.
Of the 59 participants last year, only 24 finished.
The participants, one from as far away as Singapore, must bike, ski or run or walk the 135 miles from Kerry Park Arena in International Falls to Fortune Bay Casino along the Arrowhead Trail and finish under 60 hours.
Of the 59 participants last year, only 24 finished.
Bullying Crackdown
All school staff in Ontario are now required to report serious student incidents such as bullying to the school principal.
Principals, in turn, must contact parents of victims under terms of legislation that was announced last March and adopted last June.
Reporting is now mandatory for all behaviour that would be grounds for suspension or expulsion, including bullying and swearing at a teacher.
Staff who fail to report serious incidents could face sanctions under the Ontario College of Teachers Act.
Principals, in turn, must contact parents of victims under terms of legislation that was announced last March and adopted last June.
Reporting is now mandatory for all behaviour that would be grounds for suspension or expulsion, including bullying and swearing at a teacher.
Staff who fail to report serious incidents could face sanctions under the Ontario College of Teachers Act.
Forestry Report Released
A new study says the future of forestry lies in blending the production of traditional wood products with new ones such as biochemicals and bioenergy.
Avrim Lazar, president of the Forest Products Association of Canada, says the industry needs to extract the maximum value "from every tree harvested.''
Lazar says while demand for paper will continue to wane, most of the industry sees good future demand lumber, pulp, bioenergy and other new wood products.
Avrim Lazar, president of the Forest Products Association of Canada, says the industry needs to extract the maximum value "from every tree harvested.''
Lazar says while demand for paper will continue to wane, most of the industry sees good future demand lumber, pulp, bioenergy and other new wood products.
Good Jobs Campaign
The Ontario Federation of Labour is launching an ad campaign to press for a "good jobs'' budget from the Ontario government.
President Sid Ryan says creating good jobs will help pay down the provincial deficit and is the "only sustainable way'' to really help the bottom line.
He warns though Ontario's recovery could be threatened if the province moves ahead with a possible sale of provincial assets such as the LCBO or the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation.
President Sid Ryan says creating good jobs will help pay down the provincial deficit and is the "only sustainable way'' to really help the bottom line.
He warns though Ontario's recovery could be threatened if the province moves ahead with a possible sale of provincial assets such as the LCBO or the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation.
Trains/Vehicle Accident
Four people escaped serious injury yesterday after a van they were in came into collision with a CN Rail train in Dawson Township.
The accident happened about 9:30 a.m. yesterday at a crossing on Atwood Road number 2.
OPP say the four people were taken to Rainy River Health Centre with non-life threatening injuries.
The train crew was not hurt.
The accident happened about 9:30 a.m. yesterday at a crossing on Atwood Road number 2.
OPP say the four people were taken to Rainy River Health Centre with non-life threatening injuries.
The train crew was not hurt.
Another Snowmobile Fatal
There's been another fatal accident involving a snowmachine in northwestern Ontario.
A 49-year-old man from Onegaming First Nation was killed Friday morning after the snowmachine he was operating came into collision with a truck on an ice road on Sabaskong Bay on Lake of the Woods.
The man's name has not been released.
The accident occurred a day after 33-year-old Aaron Hyatt of Fort Frances was killed following the collision of two snowmobiles on a trail on Couchiching First Nation.
A 49-year-old man from Onegaming First Nation was killed Friday morning after the snowmachine he was operating came into collision with a truck on an ice road on Sabaskong Bay on Lake of the Woods.
The man's name has not been released.
The accident occurred a day after 33-year-old Aaron Hyatt of Fort Frances was killed following the collision of two snowmobiles on a trail on Couchiching First Nation.
University Applications Up
Lakehead University in Thunder Bay is expecting an increase in its student population this fall.
Applications from high school students are up more than 6 per cent over last year.
President Fred Gilbert says students see the university as an attractive destination.
"Since we're above the provincial average it's very clear for a host of reasons more students are selecting us as their first choice," says Gilbert.
Gilbert says the university has the capacity to meet an expected increase in enrollment.
Provincial Help Sought
The Ontario Forest Industries Association wants the provincial government to free up more land for logging.
President Jamie Lim says the move is needed to help the economies of northern Ontario communities, carrying unemployment rates at high as 48 per cent.
"Wee don't see any recognition by the Ministry of Natural Resources or the government as a whole that they have to start looking at their public policy," says Lim, "and asking how is it going to impact these communities economically."
Lim says freeing up more land for logging would help communities take advantage of improved markets when the economy turns around.
President Jamie Lim says the move is needed to help the economies of northern Ontario communities, carrying unemployment rates at high as 48 per cent.
"Wee don't see any recognition by the Ministry of Natural Resources or the government as a whole that they have to start looking at their public policy," says Lim, "and asking how is it going to impact these communities economically."
Lim says freeing up more land for logging would help communities take advantage of improved markets when the economy turns around.
Foresty Industry Report Today
Canada's wood and paper producers are going to release a study today on how to pull the industry out of one of its worst slumps ever.
The Forest Products Association of Canada is unveiling the findings of a year-long study in Ottawa today on the state of the industry and how to improve it.
The manufacturers have mapped out the broad outlines of how the industry needs to change and what it will need from the federal government.
The Forest Products Association of Canada is unveiling the findings of a year-long study in Ottawa today on the state of the industry and how to improve it.
The manufacturers have mapped out the broad outlines of how the industry needs to change and what it will need from the federal government.
Budget Meeting Tonight
Fort Frances councillors return to the table tonight for discussions on the 2010 budget.
At their last meeting two weeks ago, councillors were looking at an operating budget shortfall of about $530-thousand prior to considering a few changes.
Today's meeting at the Civic Centre begins at 4 p.m.
At their last meeting two weeks ago, councillors were looking at an operating budget shortfall of about $530-thousand prior to considering a few changes.
Today's meeting at the Civic Centre begins at 4 p.m.
Fatal Accident Still Under Investigation
OPP continue to investigate a fatal snowmobile accident that claimed the life of a 33-year-old Fort Frances man.
Aaron Hyatt was killed last Thursday night after two snowmachines collided on a trail on the Couchiching First Nation.
Two others were sent to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
Aaron Hyatt was killed last Thursday night after two snowmachines collided on a trail on the Couchiching First Nation.
Two others were sent to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
Cellphone Ban Tickets Now Being Issued
It is now against the law in Ontario to text friends, chat on a cell phone or browse through songs on M-P-3 players while behind the wheel of a vehicle.
The law actually took effect last October, but there was a grace period that ends today and violators are now looking at a 155-dollar fine.
Calls to 9-1-1 are an exception and is also illegal for drivers to look at display screens such as laptops and D-V-D players.
Since late October, police have issued more than 33-hundred warnings.
The law actually took effect last October, but there was a grace period that ends today and violators are now looking at a 155-dollar fine.
Calls to 9-1-1 are an exception and is also illegal for drivers to look at display screens such as laptops and D-V-D players.
Since late October, police have issued more than 33-hundred warnings.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Smaller Lottery Tickets
The size of lottery tickets in Ontario is being reduced.
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation says its shrinking the tickets as part Bet on Green program.
The OLG says the move will save one-point-four million dollars and 5-thousand trees or 39 million sheets of paper annually.
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation says its shrinking the tickets as part Bet on Green program.
The OLG says the move will save one-point-four million dollars and 5-thousand trees or 39 million sheets of paper annually.
Fish Huts Vandalized
Koochiching County Sheriff's office continues to investigate the break-in and vandalism of a number of fish shacks on the Minnesota side of Rainy Lake.
Fifteen houses located on Sand Bay were entered last Friday.
Most of the huts had windows broken or other damage.
Among items taken include fishing rods, ice augers and from one shack a 19-inch flat screen television.
Fifteen houses located on Sand Bay were entered last Friday.
Most of the huts had windows broken or other damage.
Among items taken include fishing rods, ice augers and from one shack a 19-inch flat screen television.
Local Sports for Wednesday January 27
Fort Frances Lakers had a two-game home win streak snapped last night, falling 4-3 to the visiting Dryden Ice Dogs at the Ice for Kids Arena.
Tyler Stevenson, Blake Boaz and Byron Katapaytuk did the Laker scoring.
T.J. Pocock stopped 17 shots in the loss.
Willie Corrin had a four-goal night to pace the International Falls Broncos boys' hockey team to an 11-0 win over Ely.
Corrin added two assists for a six point night - a total matched by Jordan Christianson who had 2 goals and 4 assists.
Other scorers were Jon McDonald, Michael Bounds, Alex Bruess, Matt Youso and Dylan Farmer.
Mike Hart stopped just eleven shots for his third shutout of the season.
The Broncos boys' basketball team was also victorious, defeating Tower-Soudan 66-54.
Shawn Filipiak led all scorers with 17 points.
Rainy River Voyageur's men's and women's basketball teams take to the road for northern division games against Hibbing.
On the men's side, both teams are 3-2 in conference play, but Hibbing holds a stronger overall record.
Rainy River is still looking for its first conference win on the women's side.
Tyler Stevenson, Blake Boaz and Byron Katapaytuk did the Laker scoring.
T.J. Pocock stopped 17 shots in the loss.
Willie Corrin had a four-goal night to pace the International Falls Broncos boys' hockey team to an 11-0 win over Ely.
Corrin added two assists for a six point night - a total matched by Jordan Christianson who had 2 goals and 4 assists.
Other scorers were Jon McDonald, Michael Bounds, Alex Bruess, Matt Youso and Dylan Farmer.
Mike Hart stopped just eleven shots for his third shutout of the season.
The Broncos boys' basketball team was also victorious, defeating Tower-Soudan 66-54.
Shawn Filipiak led all scorers with 17 points.
Rainy River Voyageur's men's and women's basketball teams take to the road for northern division games against Hibbing.
On the men's side, both teams are 3-2 in conference play, but Hibbing holds a stronger overall record.
Rainy River is still looking for its first conference win on the women's side.
Conservation Club Honours Members
Two long-time members of the Fort Frances Conservation Club have been recognized for their efforts.
Willie Anderson and Jack Hedman were awarded life-time members from the club at its annual meeting last night.
Hedman, the past-president of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, says its a great honour.
"I've been a member of the club for the close to thirty years," says Hedman, "I looked around the room tonight and I saw all these fellows who've been around for that length of time. To be honoured by your peers is really something else. It's really special."
For Anderson, it was a love for the outdoors got him involved with the club more than 40-years ago."
"I've always like the outdoors and hunted," says Anderson. "I used to gunsmith at one time and still do a fair amount of shooting when I get the chance. I just enjoy working with the group."
Anderson, who manages the club's gun range, was also awarded the Bud Cyr Conservation trophy which recognizes the contributions of a club member over the past year.
The club also honoured Junior members Robert and Jacob Empy for their work on several club projects last year.
Willie Anderson and Jack Hedman were awarded life-time members from the club at its annual meeting last night.
Hedman, the past-president of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, says its a great honour.
"I've been a member of the club for the close to thirty years," says Hedman, "I looked around the room tonight and I saw all these fellows who've been around for that length of time. To be honoured by your peers is really something else. It's really special."
For Anderson, it was a love for the outdoors got him involved with the club more than 40-years ago."
"I've always like the outdoors and hunted," says Anderson. "I used to gunsmith at one time and still do a fair amount of shooting when I get the chance. I just enjoy working with the group."
Anderson, who manages the club's gun range, was also awarded the Bud Cyr Conservation trophy which recognizes the contributions of a club member over the past year.
The club also honoured Junior members Robert and Jacob Empy for their work on several club projects last year.
Group Fighting for Community TV
A group that supports the use of community-access television stations across Canada wants the CRTC to ensure their protection.
Catherine Edwards of the Canadian Association of Community Television Users and Stations says the regulating agency is reviewing its community TV policy and users of those stations need to speak out.
"We just think the solution is for communities to have their own channels," says Edwards, "and we think it will address the problem we're seeing in the public and private sector as well which is a lot of station closures in small communities. This way the future of these station would be in community hands to do what they want with them.
Edwards says the reduction of local programming and full-time staff at Shaw's Fort Frances operations is a trend being seen across the country.
Edwards encourages the public to comment on the policy before the deadline ends next Monday.
Catherine Edwards of the Canadian Association of Community Television Users and Stations says the regulating agency is reviewing its community TV policy and users of those stations need to speak out.
"We just think the solution is for communities to have their own channels," says Edwards, "and we think it will address the problem we're seeing in the public and private sector as well which is a lot of station closures in small communities. This way the future of these station would be in community hands to do what they want with them.
Edwards says the reduction of local programming and full-time staff at Shaw's Fort Frances operations is a trend being seen across the country.
Edwards encourages the public to comment on the policy before the deadline ends next Monday.
Lawsuit Permitted to Proceed
A judge has ruled the defamation, negligent investigation and malicious prosecution suit launched against the OPP by a former grand chief of Grand Council of Treaty No. 3 can proceed to trial.
Superior Court Justice Donald Gordon made the ruling on Leon Jourdain's lawsuit.
Jourdain is suing the police in the aftermath of a sexual assault allegation made against the former grand chief in February, 2004.
Superior Court Justice Donald Gordon made the ruling on Leon Jourdain's lawsuit.
Jourdain is suing the police in the aftermath of a sexual assault allegation made against the former grand chief in February, 2004.
New VP Hired
Rainy Lake Medical Centre in the Falls has a new vice-president of human resources.
Pele Raymond Ugboajah replace Mary Philippe who retired earlier this month.
Ugboajah comes to the centre after having worked as a senior management consultant and executive coach at MDA Leadership Consulting.
Pele Raymond Ugboajah replace Mary Philippe who retired earlier this month.
Ugboajah comes to the centre after having worked as a senior management consultant and executive coach at MDA Leadership Consulting.
New Port of Entry Meeting
The public will get an another opportunity to comment on plans for a new U.S. Customs and Border Protection inspection facility and port of entry in International Falls today.
The U-S General Services Administration will holding two meetings on a draft environmental impact statement.
The GSA has narrowed its selection of sites from ten to five.
An open house will happen at Rainy River Community College at 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. with a public comment period taking place at 7 p.m.
The U-S General Services Administration will holding two meetings on a draft environmental impact statement.
The GSA has narrowed its selection of sites from ten to five.
An open house will happen at Rainy River Community College at 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. with a public comment period taking place at 7 p.m.
Lakes Study Planned
The Ministry of Natural Resources is taking a new approach to how it establishes sport fishing regulations for the area.
Biologist Melissa Mosley says rather a lake-by-lake approach, the MNR will begin collecting data this year from several lakes toward a more regional fisheries management plan.
"It's going to give us a more effective way of getting fisheries information," says Mosley, "as well have statistical confidence on the state of the resource across the zone, not just one specific lakes."
Data from 130 lakes in the Dryden, Kenora and Fort Frances area will be collected this summer to help form the basis of that plan.
Biologist Melissa Mosley says rather a lake-by-lake approach, the MNR will begin collecting data this year from several lakes toward a more regional fisheries management plan.
"It's going to give us a more effective way of getting fisheries information," says Mosley, "as well have statistical confidence on the state of the resource across the zone, not just one specific lakes."
Data from 130 lakes in the Dryden, Kenora and Fort Frances area will be collected this summer to help form the basis of that plan.
Snowmobile Trails Patrolled
A lack of proper registration, trail permits, even valid driving licenses is forcing some area snowmobilers to be out of pocket $15-hundred.
OPP laid seven charges during a recent snowmobile patrol which Constable Anne McCoy says was done to ensure sledders are following the rules.
"We have to make sure people have the proper insurance," says McCoy, "they're licensed drivers and are operating their sleds within the speed limits. That makes everyone safe who uses the trails."
During last Thursday's patrol, three machines had to towed off the trails after police found operators to be driving without a valid license .
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Quetico Park fan Honoured
A former park naturalist for Ontario Parks and long time visitor to Quetico Provincial Park is among those being named to the Order of Ontario.
Shirley Peruniak is known as "the heart and soul'' of Quetico, having spent 35-years studying and promoting the park as one of world-renowned wilderness destinations.
Peruniak officially retired 16 years ago, authored a book about Quetico ten years ago.
She makes her home in Sharbot Lake, north of Kingston, but maintains a cabin in the Atikokan area.
Shirley Peruniak is known as "the heart and soul'' of Quetico, having spent 35-years studying and promoting the park as one of world-renowned wilderness destinations.
Peruniak officially retired 16 years ago, authored a book about Quetico ten years ago.
She makes her home in Sharbot Lake, north of Kingston, but maintains a cabin in the Atikokan area.
DNR Talking Trash
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is getting annoyed with the number of bottles, cans and other garbage that's being left on area lakes.
But the Department says identifying the perpetrators is the biggest problem.
Ken Soring, Enforcement manager for the northeast region says wind can also make it difficult to prove where the trash come from and there's not enough Conservation officers to thoroughly enforce litter laws.
Litter is a petty misdemeanour criminal charge in Minnesota with a fine of up to 300-dollars.
But the Department says identifying the perpetrators is the biggest problem.
Ken Soring, Enforcement manager for the northeast region says wind can also make it difficult to prove where the trash come from and there's not enough Conservation officers to thoroughly enforce litter laws.
Litter is a petty misdemeanour criminal charge in Minnesota with a fine of up to 300-dollars.
Legal Aid Concerns Lingers
Opposition critics say a promise to increase fees for legal aid lawyers does little to solve some of the key problems saddling the province's legal system.
Ontario agreed to increase the rates paid to lawyers in the cash-strapped program in a bid to end a months-long boycott that threatened to escalate over the weekend.
But New Democrat Howard Hampton says the deal doesn't address the bigger problems in Ontario's legal system, like the difficulty for people to get a legal aid certificate in the first place.
He also worries that the government will pay for budget increases_ estimated by some to become as high as $80 million _ by making it even more difficult to get those certificates.
OPP Now Tweeting
The Ontario Provincial Police force is joining the social media movement by starting up a Twitter account.
It will include news releases and other messages.
Last year, an American social media consultant visited Canada to teach police how to make better use of social networking sites to fight crime.
It will include news releases and other messages.
Last year, an American social media consultant visited Canada to teach police how to make better use of social networking sites to fight crime.
Canada-wide Warrant Issued
A Canada-wide warrant has been issued for a man accused of defrauding at least 21 seniors.
Police are looking for Richard Earl Rupert who is wanted for robbery, break and enter, eight counts of fraud and six counts of theft.
Toronto police started their investigation last November after an 81-year-old woman was mugged.
Tips started rolling in and investigators have pieced together a trail of fraud that stretches from Toronto to St. Catharine's, Waterloo, London, Ottawa and Thunder Bay.
Police are looking for Richard Earl Rupert who is wanted for robbery, break and enter, eight counts of fraud and six counts of theft.
Toronto police started their investigation last November after an 81-year-old woman was mugged.
Tips started rolling in and investigators have pieced together a trail of fraud that stretches from Toronto to St. Catharine's, Waterloo, London, Ottawa and Thunder Bay.
Stunt Driving Charge Laid
A Fort Frances High School student had an experience to talk about during their last day of a co-op education program with the Fort Frances OPP.
While out doing radar patrol with an officer Friday, the duo clocked a vehicle doing 156-kilometres an hour in a 90 zone through Halkirk township, east of Fort Frances.
When the vehicle was stopped, the officer found an unknown quantity of marijuana and Oxycontin.
Along with being faced with drug possession and speeding charges, the 23-year-old woman from Seine River First Nation had her vehicle and driver's license seized for Stunt Driving.
While out doing radar patrol with an officer Friday, the duo clocked a vehicle doing 156-kilometres an hour in a 90 zone through Halkirk township, east of Fort Frances.
When the vehicle was stopped, the officer found an unknown quantity of marijuana and Oxycontin.
Along with being faced with drug possession and speeding charges, the 23-year-old woman from Seine River First Nation had her vehicle and driver's license seized for Stunt Driving.
Snowmobilers Charged
A busy day for Fort Frances OPP on the snowmobile trails last week.
Officers issued seven charges against sledders last Thursday resulting in fines of more than 15-hundred dollars.
Most of the charges related to riders not having proper registration, trail permits or insurance.
However three machines had to be towed off the trails after police found operators to be driving without valid licenses.
Officers issued seven charges against sledders last Thursday resulting in fines of more than 15-hundred dollars.
Most of the charges related to riders not having proper registration, trail permits or insurance.
However three machines had to be towed off the trails after police found operators to be driving without valid licenses.
Local Sports for Tuesday January 26
Fort Frances Lakers will be looking for a third straight win on home ice tonight when they meet the Dryden Ice Dogs.
Game time at the Ice for Kids Arena is 7:30 p.m.
A pair of games for the International Falls Broncos today.
The boys hockey team is in Ely.
The boys basketball team hosts Tower-Soudan - 7:30 at Falls High School.
Game time at the Ice for Kids Arena is 7:30 p.m.
A pair of games for the International Falls Broncos today.
The boys hockey team is in Ely.
The boys basketball team hosts Tower-Soudan - 7:30 at Falls High School.
Former Owner of CFOB Named to Order
A former owner of CFOB Radio has been appointed to the Order of Ontario.
Thunder Bay's Fraser Dougall was one of 29 named to the order by Lieutenant Governor David Onley.
Dougall briefly owned CFOB radio in the early 1970's.
Thunder Bay's Fraser Dougall was one of 29 named to the order by Lieutenant Governor David Onley.
Dougall briefly owned CFOB radio in the early 1970's.
Conservation Club Meets
A meeting tonight for members of the Fort Frances Conservation Club.
Jack Hedman, past-president of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and representatives from the Ministry of Natural Resources, will be guest speakers.
The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau.
Jack Hedman, past-president of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and representatives from the Ministry of Natural Resources, will be guest speakers.
The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau.
School Fundraisers for Haiti
The fundraising for the Haiti relief effort continues in area schools.
Crossroads School's Kids Care Club and its student council are collecting coins this week for the Free the Children organization.
Sturgeon Creek School is also collecting donations and will hold its "Soup for Haiti" fundraiser tomorrow.
At Riverview School in Rainy River, more than four-hundred dollars has been raised so far from a variety of activities.
Crossroads School's Kids Care Club and its student council are collecting coins this week for the Free the Children organization.
Sturgeon Creek School is also collecting donations and will hold its "Soup for Haiti" fundraiser tomorrow.
At Riverview School in Rainy River, more than four-hundred dollars has been raised so far from a variety of activities.
Albanese Elected Chair
Fort Frances councillor John Albanese has been returned as Chair of the Northwestern Health Unit.
Albanese, who has served in that capacity for the past six years, says he wanted to remain as chair as the Health Unit seeks accreditation.
"We're right in the midst of accreditation which will take place in April or May," says Albanese.
Albanese, a provincial appointee, says his election as chair also provides some continuity to the board in an election year for the municipal appointees.
Albanese, who has served in that capacity for the past six years, says he wanted to remain as chair as the Health Unit seeks accreditation.
"We're right in the midst of accreditation which will take place in April or May," says Albanese.
Albanese, a provincial appointee, says his election as chair also provides some continuity to the board in an election year for the municipal appointees.
Easier Access to Town Documents Coming
The purchase of new computer technology is going to make it easier to access information from the town of Fort Frances.
Councillor Sharon Tibbs says the purchase through iCompass Technologies will allow items such as council agendas and by-laws to be more readily available through the town's website.
"It means accessible and transparency of the materials that we deal with will be more accessible by the public," says Tibbs.
Town clerk Glenn Treftlin says it also helps the town meet pending legislation.
"It's certainly an opportunity for the town to take a stride towards meetings some of the requirements coming due in January next year," says Treftlin, "with regards to communication accessibility standards that are being imposed by the province."
The system, costing about $15-thousand, is expected to be in place later this spring.
Councillor Sharon Tibbs says the purchase through iCompass Technologies will allow items such as council agendas and by-laws to be more readily available through the town's website.
"It means accessible and transparency of the materials that we deal with will be more accessible by the public," says Tibbs.
Town clerk Glenn Treftlin says it also helps the town meet pending legislation.
"It's certainly an opportunity for the town to take a stride towards meetings some of the requirements coming due in January next year," says Treftlin, "with regards to communication accessibility standards that are being imposed by the province."
The system, costing about $15-thousand, is expected to be in place later this spring.
Fines Wiped Off Books
The town of Fort Frances has been forced to write-off more than $105-thousand in unpaid fines from its books.
Treasurer Laurie Witherspoon says it doesn't mean those owing the provincial offences act fines won't have to pay them ever again.
"Although we are doing a write-off, it is for accounting purposes only, " says Witherspoon. "P.O.A. fines are not absolved. They are for a convicted offender and still required to pay the fine and out it in perpetuity."
The unpaid fines date back to 2003.
Councillor Paul Ryan says the inability to collect the fines, even by a collections' agency, left to the town having write them off.
"A lot of these are so old," says Ryan. "We don't have a reciprocal agreement between Ontario and Manitoba. The fine is given in Ontario, but they don't collect it for us. Unless the person returns to the scene, it's pretty hard in some cases to track these down."
Treasurer Laurie Witherspoon says it doesn't mean those owing the provincial offences act fines won't have to pay them ever again.
"Although we are doing a write-off, it is for accounting purposes only, " says Witherspoon. "P.O.A. fines are not absolved. They are for a convicted offender and still required to pay the fine and out it in perpetuity."
The unpaid fines date back to 2003.
Councillor Paul Ryan says the inability to collect the fines, even by a collections' agency, left to the town having write them off.
"A lot of these are so old," says Ryan. "We don't have a reciprocal agreement between Ontario and Manitoba. The fine is given in Ontario, but they don't collect it for us. Unless the person returns to the scene, it's pretty hard in some cases to track these down."
2009 OPP Statistics Outlined
OPP are noticing a decline in the amount of crime taking place in Fort Frances.
Detachment Commander, Inspector John Kendrick outlined the numbers to town councillors Monday.
OPP responded to more than 43-hundred calls for service last year, a 3 per cent increase over the year before.
There were 212 incidents of violent crime, down from 265 in 2007.
Kendrick says common assault remains the leading type of violent crime and many assaults are alcohol related.
Property crimes have also shown a steady decline from 2003 when there 658 incidents.
There were 429 reported in 2009.
Local Sports for Monday January 25
T-J Pocock earned his first win in net for the Fort Frances Lakers Saturday, stopping 29 shots in a 3-1 win over the Wisconsin Mustangs at the Ice for Kids Arena.
Mustangs ended Pocock's bid for a shutout with a goal two minutes remaining.
Justin Erhart, Matthew Caufield and Tyler Stephenson had the Laker goals.
Fort Frances Muskies boys' hockey team did all of its scoring in the first period in a 7-2 thumping of Red Lake Falls.
Devin Stomness had 31 saves in net.
International Falls Broncos boys' hockey team battled to a 3-3 overtime tie with Virginia Friday.
Brandon Richards, Jon McDonald, and Jordan Christianson had the Broncos goals
Glenn Wals had 29 saves in goal.
Elsewhere, the Broncos girls' hockey team lost 3-1 to Silver Bay on Friday.
Amy Auran the lone scorer.
The Broncos girls' basketball team lost 55-32 to Two Harbours on Friday.
In girls Atom hockey action over the weekend - both house league teams participated in tournaments.
The Fort Frances Kaemingh Esso won the B side of a Dryden tournament - with a score of 2 - 1 in a shootout.
Maighyn Degagne scored in regulation time while Alyssa Alderson and Siobhan Mackintosh scored in the shoot-out.
The Rolling Lake Lightning won the B side at an International Falls event over the weekend with a score of 7 - 2 in the final.
Lauren Hamilton and Annalise Hayes each had 2 goals, and Shannon Bird, Breanna Dustin and Abby Plourde each notching a goal.
Mustangs ended Pocock's bid for a shutout with a goal two minutes remaining.
Justin Erhart, Matthew Caufield and Tyler Stephenson had the Laker goals.
Fort Frances Muskies boys' hockey team did all of its scoring in the first period in a 7-2 thumping of Red Lake Falls.
Devin Stomness had 31 saves in net.
International Falls Broncos boys' hockey team battled to a 3-3 overtime tie with Virginia Friday.
Brandon Richards, Jon McDonald, and Jordan Christianson had the Broncos goals
Glenn Wals had 29 saves in goal.
Elsewhere, the Broncos girls' hockey team lost 3-1 to Silver Bay on Friday.
Amy Auran the lone scorer.
The Broncos girls' basketball team lost 55-32 to Two Harbours on Friday.
In girls Atom hockey action over the weekend - both house league teams participated in tournaments.
The Fort Frances Kaemingh Esso won the B side of a Dryden tournament - with a score of 2 - 1 in a shootout.
Maighyn Degagne scored in regulation time while Alyssa Alderson and Siobhan Mackintosh scored in the shoot-out.
The Rolling Lake Lightning won the B side at an International Falls event over the weekend with a score of 7 - 2 in the final.
Lauren Hamilton and Annalise Hayes each had 2 goals, and Shannon Bird, Breanna Dustin and Abby Plourde each notching a goal.
Friendly Cold War Waged
The debate over who's the chilliest in Minnesota was waged on national television Sunday.
International Falls, Tower and Embarrass were featured on the CBS Morning Show and the Weather Channel.
While the Falls claims to be the Ice Box of the Nation, the average low temperatures in Tower and Embarrass are colder while Tower holds the one-day record of 60 below F on February 2, 1996.
Embarrass recorded an unofficial temperature of 64 below F on that same day after its official reading instruments stopped working at 51 below F.
International Falls, Tower and Embarrass were featured on the CBS Morning Show and the Weather Channel.
While the Falls claims to be the Ice Box of the Nation, the average low temperatures in Tower and Embarrass are colder while Tower holds the one-day record of 60 below F on February 2, 1996.
Embarrass recorded an unofficial temperature of 64 below F on that same day after its official reading instruments stopped working at 51 below F.
Ice Huts to be Registered
The Ministry of Natural Resources says it wants to cut down on abandoned ice fishing huts by requiring all huts to be registered.
The ministry says it doesn't cost anything to register your hut.
Once registered, the hut can be used anywhere in Ontario.
It's also illegal to leave a hut out after ice break up regardless of whether registration and removal dates apply.
The ministry says it doesn't cost anything to register your hut.
Once registered, the hut can be used anywhere in Ontario.
It's also illegal to leave a hut out after ice break up regardless of whether registration and removal dates apply.
Legal Aid Agreement
An agreement between the Ontario government and the Criminal Lawyers' Association has ended a boycott over legal aid payments.
More than one-thousand defence lawyers have been refusing to handle homicide cases as well as gang and gun indictments to press demands for more money from the legal aid system.
The government says the lawyer's hourly fees will increase an average of five per cent per year for the next seven years.
More than one-thousand defence lawyers have been refusing to handle homicide cases as well as gang and gun indictments to press demands for more money from the legal aid system.
The government says the lawyer's hourly fees will increase an average of five per cent per year for the next seven years.
Contract Talks Halted
Contact talks between AbitibiBowater and the Communications Energy and Paperworkers Union have been suspended until March.
The adjournment late Friday came after a week of union deliberations over discussions with governments and the company concerning the company's insolvent pension plan.
C.E.P. President Dave Coles says there's been some progress, but the union still need support from the federal government.
The adjournment late Friday came after a week of union deliberations over discussions with governments and the company concerning the company's insolvent pension plan.
C.E.P. President Dave Coles says there's been some progress, but the union still need support from the federal government.
Mill Production Resumes
Operations at the AbitibiBowater mill in Fort Frances were able to resume on the weekend following corrections to a problem with its effluent system.
The company cited cold weather last Tuesday for the system to exceed its biochemical oxygen demand limit and force an unplanned shutdown.
The halt in production did not result in any layoffs.
The company cited cold weather last Tuesday for the system to exceed its biochemical oxygen demand limit and force an unplanned shutdown.
The halt in production did not result in any layoffs.
Samsung Deal Panned
Kenora-Rainy River M.P.P. Howard Hampton is warning area residents to brace themselves for higher electricity prices in the future.
Hampton suggests the seven billion dollars green electricity deal the province signed last week with Samsung will lead to just that.
"If you look at the contracts signed already by the Ontario Power Authority, some of these outfits are getting paid rates of almost 20-cents an hour," says Hampton. "When that starts to hit peoples hydro bills, the rate is going go up even higher."
Hampton adds the energy deal will have no economic benefit for northern Ontario because all the wind and solar projects will be located in southern Ontario.
Hampton suggests the seven billion dollars green electricity deal the province signed last week with Samsung will lead to just that.
"If you look at the contracts signed already by the Ontario Power Authority, some of these outfits are getting paid rates of almost 20-cents an hour," says Hampton. "When that starts to hit peoples hydro bills, the rate is going go up even higher."
Hampton adds the energy deal will have no economic benefit for northern Ontario because all the wind and solar projects will be located in southern Ontario.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Comuzzi Appointed Chair
Just days after being appointed to the International Joint Commission, former Thunder Bay MP Joe Comuzzi has been named chair of its Canadian Section.
Comuzzi is no stranger to the IJC.
During his six terms as a member of Parliament, Comuzzi chaired several federal subcommittees that had direct dealings with the IJC that resolves disputes over boundary waters between Canada and the U.S.
Casino Rama Ruling Upheld
The Ontario Court of Appeal has dismissed a claim by a native group that they don't have to share Casino Rama revenues with other First Nations.
The Chippewas claim that under an original deal with the province to build Casino Rama on their land, they are entitled to a 35 per cent share of gambling profits.
More than 133 other First Nations fought the Chippewas claim and won a lower court ruling, which was upheld today by the Court of Appeal.
The Chippewas claim that under an original deal with the province to build Casino Rama on their land, they are entitled to a 35 per cent share of gambling profits.
More than 133 other First Nations fought the Chippewas claim and won a lower court ruling, which was upheld today by the Court of Appeal.
Scam Warning Issued
Officials with TruStar Federal Credit Union are issuing warnings about a nationwide scam that's reached some residents in the International Falls area last night.
A computer-voiced telephone message, targeting residents with a 2-4-0 prefix and a 2-1-8 area code, asked them to enter personal identification to activate or confirm their debit or ATM cards.
The credit union believe the callers are randomly dialing numbers in an attempt to reach its customers.
Neither the credit union nor its members have been financially impacted by the calls.
International Falls Police, along with officials from TruStar, CUNA Mutual and Shazam, are investigating.
Local Sports for Friday January 22
Fort Frances Canadians Midget AA hockey team defeated the International Falls Broncos junior varsity team 6-1 last night at the Ice for Kids Arena.
Brad McDonald with a pair, Dillan Grinsell, Tyler Fontana, Chris Bobczynski and Brandon Sinclair scored for the Canadians.
They'll travel to Baudette today for an exhibition game against the Lake of the Woods Bears Junior Varsity team beginning at 5 p.m.
Tomorrow they will travel to Grand Rapids.
International Falls Broncos girls' basketball team made it two in a row with a 57-37 win over the Eveleth-Gilbert Golden Bears.
The Broncos continue action tonight in Two Harbours.
Elsewhere, the Broncos boys' basketball team is in Proctor.
The Broncos boys' hockey team will host Virginia - 7:30 at Broncos Arena - and the girls' hockey team travels to Silver Bay.
Brad McDonald with a pair, Dillan Grinsell, Tyler Fontana, Chris Bobczynski and Brandon Sinclair scored for the Canadians.
They'll travel to Baudette today for an exhibition game against the Lake of the Woods Bears Junior Varsity team beginning at 5 p.m.
Tomorrow they will travel to Grand Rapids.
International Falls Broncos girls' basketball team made it two in a row with a 57-37 win over the Eveleth-Gilbert Golden Bears.
The Broncos continue action tonight in Two Harbours.
Elsewhere, the Broncos boys' basketball team is in Proctor.
The Broncos boys' hockey team will host Virginia - 7:30 at Broncos Arena - and the girls' hockey team travels to Silver Bay.
Alzheimer's Fundraisers
It's going to be a busy weekend for the Alzheimer's Society of Kenora-Rainy River.
Executive Director Margaret Schonewille says they'll kick it off with the annual Penny for your Thoughts" fundraiser.
"Friday night and Saturday night we'll be doing our 'Penny for your Thoughts' weigh-in at Canadian Tire," says Schonewille. "You don't have get weighed. You don't get on the scales only your pennies do. They don't have to be rolled, you don't have, but if you want to roll them that saves me work on the other end."
This will be followed by the “The Linda Johnston Memorial Alzheimer Dinner to Remember.” in Rainy River and Sunday's Chefs' Charitable Dinner and Auction at the Adventure Inn.
Executive Director Margaret Schonewille says they'll kick it off with the annual Penny for your Thoughts" fundraiser.
"Friday night and Saturday night we'll be doing our 'Penny for your Thoughts' weigh-in at Canadian Tire," says Schonewille. "You don't have get weighed. You don't get on the scales only your pennies do. They don't have to be rolled, you don't have, but if you want to roll them that saves me work on the other end."
This will be followed by the “The Linda Johnston Memorial Alzheimer Dinner to Remember.” in Rainy River and Sunday's Chefs' Charitable Dinner and Auction at the Adventure Inn.
P.L.A.Y. Launched
(Back Row: Chief Norm Hardisty of Moose Cree First Nation, Robert Witchel of Right to Play, Minister Brad Duguid, Minister Chris Bentley, Grand Chief Stan Beardy of Nishnawbe Aski Nation. Front Row: Darlene Isaac, Aurora Delaney, Olympic and World Champion Sami Jo Small and Adrian Delaney gathered at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto to launch P.L.A.Y.)
A new partnership between the Government of Ontario and Right To Play will promote a healthy and active lifestyle for Aboriginal youth through sport and recreation.
Promoting Life-skills for Aboriginal Youth (P.L.A.Y.) is a pilot project being developed by Right To Play.
Promoting Life-skills for Aboriginal Youth (P.L.A.Y.) is a pilot project being developed by Right To Play.
It will first be offered in Moose Cree First Nation before brought to other first nation communities.
The program uses sport and recreation to develop leadership skills and provide youth with opportunities that may not otherwise be available in their community.
The program uses sport and recreation to develop leadership skills and provide youth with opportunities that may not otherwise be available in their community.
It is based on similar sport and play programs run by Right To Play.
Schools Join in on Fundraising
Area school are getting behind fundraising efforts for Haiti.
Crossroad's School's Kids Care Club and and its student council have organized a fundraising drive for next week that seeks to collect funds for the Free the Children organization.
At Sturgeon Creek, the school will hold a "Soup for Haiti" fundraiser next Wednesday.
The Rainy River District School Board office is also collecting monetary donations its staff.
Crossroad's School's Kids Care Club and and its student council have organized a fundraising drive for next week that seeks to collect funds for the Free the Children organization.
At Sturgeon Creek, the school will hold a "Soup for Haiti" fundraiser next Wednesday.
The Rainy River District School Board office is also collecting monetary donations its staff.
"Dalton Day" Up in the Air
Ontario labour leaders say they remain uncertain whether "Dalton Days'' are on the horizon.
Yesterday, about 20 union representatives met with Finance Minister Dwight Duncan to discuss the next provincial budget, but says it's not clear if government workers will have to take unpaid days off and wage freezes to help the government fight its unprecedented deficit.
Ontario Federation of Labour president Sid Ryan says all options are being considered by the Finance Minister,
Yesterday, about 20 union representatives met with Finance Minister Dwight Duncan to discuss the next provincial budget, but says it's not clear if government workers will have to take unpaid days off and wage freezes to help the government fight its unprecedented deficit.
Ontario Federation of Labour president Sid Ryan says all options are being considered by the Finance Minister,
Rickford Fights Back
The war of words over the HST continues in the Kenora riding.
Federal NDP accuse the Conservative M-P Greg Rickford of misleading constituents by saying it's not a federal issue, but Rickford says its the NDP who are not telling the whole truth.
"They have certainly gone a long way to confuse the issue," says Rickford. "This is squarely a provincial issue. The federal government's involvement in this is to respect the province's autonomy in taxation."
Rickford says Thunder Bay-Superior North MP Bruce Hyer, who was in Dryden and Sioux Lookout, should be spending more time in his riding speaking to his constituents about real issues of concern.
Hyer and Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty have been calling on the federal government to cancel a $4.3 billion dollar payment to help Ontario with merging of the provincial sales tax with the federal good and services tax this July.
Cattle Markets Discussed
An official with the Ministry of Agriculture says a new abattoir to open next week in Emo will put the district's cattle producers in a good position to help sell their products to local consumers.
Barry Potter a livestock specialist says by building a brand, local producers can actually take advantage of a local market that's somewhat distant from others in the country.
"So there's an opportunity for local producers to connect with local consumers and supply them with food," says Potter. "Certainly there's a lot of interest from consumers in knowing about where there food comes from and connecting with local farmers"
Potter says the Ministry has established a number of programs to help cattle farmers establish those brands.
Establishing a stronger local market is one of the ways officials say can help offset losses due to difficulties entering the United States market.
Matt Bowman, northern Ontario's representative to the Ontario Cattlemen's Association, says a number of factors are at play that's making it increasingly difficult to market stateside.
"Country-of-origin labelling caused us some issues this past year," says Bowman. "We're beginning to understand how it that's going to effect us in the bigger term. Older cattle is still an issue. The disparity of regulations between the two country also hurts. We have a few more stiffer regulations than they do so that adds a few dollars to our cost of production here."
Bowman says the federation has activity lobbied government for assistance and feels they have been making some progress.
Board of Health Elections Today
Board elections top the agenda at today's meeting of the Northwestern Health Unit in Dryden.
Fort Frances councillor John Albanese is seeking another term as chair.
OPP Seeking New Recruits
The help wanted sign is being posted by the Ontario Provincial Police.
Sergeant Darryl Wilson has been recruiting prospective members to the O-P-P for the past decade and says they're are always looking to replenish the ranks.
"A a large organization we are continuously looking for the competitive and suitable candidates," says Wilson, "because were always faced with officers retiring. Yes it's hard times, but we still need to be replacing those who are leaving."
About a dozen individuals attended a recent recruitment session in Fort Frances, but Wilson says they'll always had difficulties convincing people from northwestern Ontario to consider a career in policing.
"I never seem to have the numbers. If a class if going through of the full class a full dozen would be coming to northwestern Ontario. The numbers from the north that started living in the north might be only eight."
Wilson says some feel their age is a deterrent, but notes the last graduating class include a student who was 48-years old.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Local Sports for Thursday January 21
It was another split in games for the Rainy River Voyageurs on the basketball court.
Last night the men's team beat Vermilion 118-88, but the women's lost 62-57
Bantam girls hockey last night saw the BDO Dunwoody Stars defeat Energy Fitness Wild 3-1.
Scoring for the Stars were Shelby Tymkin with a pair and Taylor Hazel.
Shelby Rae had the Wild's lone goal.
In Atom girls play, the Rolling Lake Lightning and the International Falls under-10 girls team skated to a 3-3 draw.
Annalise Hayes had all three goals for the Lightning.
Lexi Edwards, Amber Tillander and Kara Schneider scored for the Falls' team
In Atom girls action from Wednesday night, it was Fort Frances Kaemingh Esso blanking the Emo Penguins 7-0.
Alyssa Alderson and Emma Noga each had hat tricks with Sara Jackson adding the other goal.
Carly McKinnon recorded the shutout.
It's a light high school schedule locally with only the International Falls Broncos girls basketball team in action.
The Broncos will host Eveleth-Gilbert - 7:30 p.m. at Falls High School.
Last night the men's team beat Vermilion 118-88, but the women's lost 62-57
Bantam girls hockey last night saw the BDO Dunwoody Stars defeat Energy Fitness Wild 3-1.
Scoring for the Stars were Shelby Tymkin with a pair and Taylor Hazel.
Shelby Rae had the Wild's lone goal.
In Atom girls play, the Rolling Lake Lightning and the International Falls under-10 girls team skated to a 3-3 draw.
Annalise Hayes had all three goals for the Lightning.
Lexi Edwards, Amber Tillander and Kara Schneider scored for the Falls' team
In Atom girls action from Wednesday night, it was Fort Frances Kaemingh Esso blanking the Emo Penguins 7-0.
Alyssa Alderson and Emma Noga each had hat tricks with Sara Jackson adding the other goal.
Carly McKinnon recorded the shutout.
It's a light high school schedule locally with only the International Falls Broncos girls basketball team in action.
The Broncos will host Eveleth-Gilbert - 7:30 p.m. at Falls High School.
Summer Jobs Money
The federal government is making more money available for businesses in the Rainy River district to help cover the costs of hiring summer students.
Just under $250-thousand will be allocated for the Canada Summer Jobs programs run by Service Canada.
It's an increase of about $31-thousand over last summer.
Employers can apply for the funding beginning February 1st.
Just under $250-thousand will be allocated for the Canada Summer Jobs programs run by Service Canada.
It's an increase of about $31-thousand over last summer.
Employers can apply for the funding beginning February 1st.
Hunting Ban Issued
A Red Lake man has been fined $3,500 and prohibited from hunting in Ontario for two years for illegally hunting deer in the Rainy River District.
The man was charged last November after MNR conservation officers spotting two men walking out of the bush in the Nelles-Patullo Road area, north of Stratton, and get into a truck.
The MNR later found a deer shot in a nearby farmer's field that was dragged to a fence near the road.
The man initially denied shooting the deer, but C.O.'s were able to match the bullet that killed the animal to his riffle.
The man was charged last November after MNR conservation officers spotting two men walking out of the bush in the Nelles-Patullo Road area, north of Stratton, and get into a truck.
The MNR later found a deer shot in a nearby farmer's field that was dragged to a fence near the road.
The man initially denied shooting the deer, but C.O.'s were able to match the bullet that killed the animal to his riffle.
Arts Funds Available
Arts organizations in northern Minnesota, including those in Koochiching County will have until the end of this month to apply for funding from the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council.
Eligible groups can request up to $6,000 per grant application, an increase from the previous amount of $3,500.
The required match for an application has also been decreased from 50 to 20 percent.
Eligible groups can request up to $6,000 per grant application, an increase from the previous amount of $3,500.
The required match for an application has also been decreased from 50 to 20 percent.
Tim Horton's Raises Funds
There's more fundraising taking place in the Rainy River District for the Haitian earthquake relief effort.
Tim Hortons has announced money raised through it's Children's Foundation coin boxes will be donated to UNICEF.
An additional $100-thousand is being donated at the corporate level.
Labour Meets with Cabinet Members
Union leaders with the Ontario Federation of Labour will get an audience today with two key members of the McGuinty Cabinet.
The meeting with Finance Minister Dwight Duncan and Labour Minister Peter Fonseca will focus around jobs and the economy.
OFL President Sid Ryan calls today's meeting a very positive step and is looking for constructive dialogue.
The meeting with Finance Minister Dwight Duncan and Labour Minister Peter Fonseca will focus around jobs and the economy.
OFL President Sid Ryan calls today's meeting a very positive step and is looking for constructive dialogue.
NDP Anti-HST Campaign in Kenora Riding
Area NDP are focusing attention on the federal Conservative held riding of Kenora in a push to kill the provincial harmonized sales tax.
And Thunder Bay-Superior North M-P Bruce Hyer says the riding's M-P Greg Rickford is not being honest with constituents when he says it's not a Federal issue.
"The federal government has bribed the Ontario into this with $4.3 billion dollars of our federal tax dollars," says Hyer, "which they're going to have to borrow on the money markets and increase our federal deficit."
NDP have been holding public meetings in the riding to rally support against the HST.
And Thunder Bay-Superior North M-P Bruce Hyer says the riding's M-P Greg Rickford is not being honest with constituents when he says it's not a Federal issue.
"The federal government has bribed the Ontario into this with $4.3 billion dollars of our federal tax dollars," says Hyer, "which they're going to have to borrow on the money markets and increase our federal deficit."
NDP have been holding public meetings in the riding to rally support against the HST.
Construction Activity Increasing in I. Falls
Watch for some activity along the U.S. side of the Rainy River this summer.
A new headquarters for Voyageur's National Park, an amphitheatre and a new U.S. Border Patrol Facility are expected to take shape this summer.
International Falls Mayor Shawn Mason says that's good news for her community.
"It's been a long time since we have seen groundbreakings happening in our community and some progress," says Mason. "I'm very thrilled with the support of a lot of great people we were able to begin our waterfront projects."
Mason reflected on 2009 and the year ahead at Falls city council meeting this past week.
Building Activity in 2009
A lack in the number of new homes in Fort Frances is being reflected in the overall building numbers for 2009.
Just under One-hundred permits were issued last year, most for home improvements.
Chief Building Official Rick Hallam says its continues a trend seen for several years now.
"There's been a very noticeable decrease in the number of new single detached dwellings being constructed in Fort Frances," says Hallam. "If you go back 10 or 11 years, we were doing upwards to 16 to 18 new homes a year. That's dropped off quite substantially. A lot of it now is additions or renovations."
Larger projects such as the new library, the elementary school and Boston Pizza accounted for much last year's total value of about $15-million.
Just under One-hundred permits were issued last year, most for home improvements.
Chief Building Official Rick Hallam says its continues a trend seen for several years now.
"There's been a very noticeable decrease in the number of new single detached dwellings being constructed in Fort Frances," says Hallam. "If you go back 10 or 11 years, we were doing upwards to 16 to 18 new homes a year. That's dropped off quite substantially. A lot of it now is additions or renovations."
Larger projects such as the new library, the elementary school and Boston Pizza accounted for much last year's total value of about $15-million.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Local Sports for Wednesday January 20
Tim Hennessey's goal 5 minutes left in the third stood as the winner as the Fort Frances Lakers edged the Sioux Lookout Flyers 4-3 at the Ice for Kids Arena last night.
Jaret Leclair, Justin Erhart and Matthew Caulfield added the other goals.
Jameson Shortreed faced 24 shots in net for the win.
Fort Frances Muskies boys' hockey team suffered its first NORWOSSA loss of the season at the hands of the Dryden Eagles.
Ethan Egli's third goal of the game 2-and-a-half minutes into overtime gave the Eagles a 5-4 decision.
Dryden had sent the game into OT with a goal just 47 seconds left in regulation.
Davis Smith with two, Nick Jourdain and Jeff Cridland had the Muskies goals.
In International Falls yesterday, the Broncos girls' hockey team defeated the Lake of the Woods Bears 3-1.
The Broncos boys' basketball team was bounced 78-55 by Hibbing while the girls' team earned a 62-48 decision over Tower-Soudan.
Rainy River Voyageurs basketball teams take to the court today at the College in games against Vermilion.
The women will kick things off at 6 with the men playing at 8
Jaret Leclair, Justin Erhart and Matthew Caulfield added the other goals.
Jameson Shortreed faced 24 shots in net for the win.
Fort Frances Muskies boys' hockey team suffered its first NORWOSSA loss of the season at the hands of the Dryden Eagles.
Ethan Egli's third goal of the game 2-and-a-half minutes into overtime gave the Eagles a 5-4 decision.
Dryden had sent the game into OT with a goal just 47 seconds left in regulation.
Davis Smith with two, Nick Jourdain and Jeff Cridland had the Muskies goals.
In International Falls yesterday, the Broncos girls' hockey team defeated the Lake of the Woods Bears 3-1.
The Broncos boys' basketball team was bounced 78-55 by Hibbing while the girls' team earned a 62-48 decision over Tower-Soudan.
Rainy River Voyageurs basketball teams take to the court today at the College in games against Vermilion.
The women will kick things off at 6 with the men playing at 8
Child Obsecity Discussed
Legislators in Minnesota are looking to curb a rise in childhood obesity in their state.
They'll calling for a number of measures that include the adoption of statewide physical education standards in schools and integrating physical activity in all classrooms, recess and extra-curricular activities.
A committee discussing the issue yesterday were told one-third of kids ages 2 to 19 are considered overweight or obese and Minnesota spends more than 9-billion dollars annually treating obesity-related issues.
They'll calling for a number of measures that include the adoption of statewide physical education standards in schools and integrating physical activity in all classrooms, recess and extra-curricular activities.
A committee discussing the issue yesterday were told one-third of kids ages 2 to 19 are considered overweight or obese and Minnesota spends more than 9-billion dollars annually treating obesity-related issues.
Bobcat Killed
Authorities in Minnesota were forced to kill a bobcat last week after it invaded a Littlefork home and killed the family's dog.
The Department of Natural Resources and the Koochiching County Sheriff's department were both dispatched to the home last Thursday where they found the 30-pound bobcat in a garage where it had entered through the doggie door.
It was later determined the animal appeared to have been starving.
The Department of Natural Resources and the Koochiching County Sheriff's department were both dispatched to the home last Thursday where they found the 30-pound bobcat in a garage where it had entered through the doggie door.
It was later determined the animal appeared to have been starving.
Green-Energy Deal Planned
It appears Ontario is about to sign a huge green-energy deal with a South Korean consortium led by Samsung.
The Ontario government is expected to sign a deal as soon as tomorrow that would see the consortium build dozens of wind and solar farms across Ontario.
There are signs the project could create 15-thousand jobs.
The Ontario government is expected to sign a deal as soon as tomorrow that would see the consortium build dozens of wind and solar farms across Ontario.
There are signs the project could create 15-thousand jobs.
Cattlemen Meet
Members of the Rainy River Cattlemen's Association will gather tonight for their annual meeting in Stratton.
Representatives from both the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ontario Cattlemen's Association will be on hand.
The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Stratton Millennium Hall.
Representatives from both the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ontario Cattlemen's Association will be on hand.
The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Stratton Millennium Hall.
Native Affairs Posting Panned
First Nation leaders are upset with Premier McGuinty's move to combine aboriginal affairs with the attorney general's responsibilities.
Nishnawbe-Aski Nation Grand Chief Stan Beardy says it sends the wrong message to First Nations grappling with high suicide rates, economic hardship and long-standing treaty disputes.
Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse says relations with First Nations have improved since the stand-alone ministry was created and the change could derail the efforts.
Attorney General Chris Bentley took over the post Monday during a cabinet shuffle.
Nishnawbe-Aski Nation Grand Chief Stan Beardy says it sends the wrong message to First Nations grappling with high suicide rates, economic hardship and long-standing treaty disputes.
Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse says relations with First Nations have improved since the stand-alone ministry was created and the change could derail the efforts.
Attorney General Chris Bentley took over the post Monday during a cabinet shuffle.
Cabinet Shuffle Not Impressing Hampton
The area's MPP isn't impressed with the changes made to the McGuinty Government's cabinet.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says Monday's cabinet shuffle does little to improve the region's economy.
"It completely ignores the issues of northern Ontario," says Hampton. "We have some really big issues to deal with - natural resources, the forest sector, the mining sector - and we have a Minister of Natural Resources whose from southern Ontario and probably doesn't know the difference between a hardwood and a softwood."
Hampton is also critical of the Native Affairs portfolio being handed to Attorney General Chris Bentley, suggesting it shows the province isn't serious about first nations issues.
Nursing Program Resuming
Confederation College and Lakehead University are now targeting this fall as the resumption of a community-based nursing program.
The program allows students to earn L.U.'s Bachelor of Nursing program at the College's regional campuses, including Fort Frances.
College president Pat Lang says they still need 32 students registered.
"We're at the stage now we're wanting to ensure we have sufficient number of students prepared and wanting to enroll," says Lang, "and also there will be job opportunities for those graduates in four years time."
Four students from the Rainy River district graduated from the pilot program which ended in the spring of 2009.
The program allows students to earn L.U.'s Bachelor of Nursing program at the College's regional campuses, including Fort Frances.
College president Pat Lang says they still need 32 students registered.
"We're at the stage now we're wanting to ensure we have sufficient number of students prepared and wanting to enroll," says Lang, "and also there will be job opportunities for those graduates in four years time."
Four students from the Rainy River district graduated from the pilot program which ended in the spring of 2009.
Mill Shutdown
A problem at the company's effluent treatment system has shutdown the AbitibiBowater Mill in Fort Frances.
A company spokesperson says its because the system exceeded its daily biochemical oxygen demand limit due to the cold weather.
The company won't say how long it will be down or how many of the 565 employees have been effected.
However, some workers tell B-93 they've told they could be back to work within two weeks.
A company spokesperson says its because the system exceeded its daily biochemical oxygen demand limit due to the cold weather.
The company won't say how long it will be down or how many of the 565 employees have been effected.
However, some workers tell B-93 they've told they could be back to work within two weeks.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
New Native Casino Opening
A new casino hotel and conference centre will officially open this week in the Red Lake, Minnesota Reserve, north of Bemidji.
The new Seven Clans Casino is the second casino in the state to be built with all native funds, using a 31-million dollar loan Shakopee Mdewakanton Dakota Community, which runs Mystic Lake casino.
The complex is bringing 100 new full-time and part-time jobs to one of the poorest areas in Minnesota, with most of those jobs held by tribal members.
The new Seven Clans Casino is the second casino in the state to be built with all native funds, using a 31-million dollar loan Shakopee Mdewakanton Dakota Community, which runs Mystic Lake casino.
The complex is bringing 100 new full-time and part-time jobs to one of the poorest areas in Minnesota, with most of those jobs held by tribal members.
OPG Fine
Ontario Power Generation has been fined one-hundred thousand dollars after pleading guilty to a violation under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
The violation related to a January 2008 workplace injury at its operating station in Atikokan in which an an employee suffered burns to his hand, arm and chest in January 2008 after shining a flashlight into an electrical unit that caused an arc flash of electricity.
It was revealed in court that the worker used a bypass key to circumvent a lockout system and opened the hatch door while the equipment was still energized.
A Ministry of Labour investigation found that the key used to bypass the system was available to all workers.
The violation related to a January 2008 workplace injury at its operating station in Atikokan in which an an employee suffered burns to his hand, arm and chest in January 2008 after shining a flashlight into an electrical unit that caused an arc flash of electricity.
It was revealed in court that the worker used a bypass key to circumvent a lockout system and opened the hatch door while the equipment was still energized.
A Ministry of Labour investigation found that the key used to bypass the system was available to all workers.
Local Sports for Tuesday January 19
Fort Frances Lakers begin an eight-game home stand tonight with a game against the Sioux Lookout Flyers.
Game time at the Ice for Kids Arena is 7:30 p.m.
International Falls Broncos girls hockey team hosts Lake of the Woods at Broncos Arena beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Broncos boys basketball team hosts Hibbing - 7:30 p.m. at Falls High School - while the girls team travels to Tower-Soudan.
Last night in local girls hockey, the Rolling Lake Lightning tied Kaemingh Esso 2-2.
Emma Noga and Annalise Hayes did the scoring for their respective teams with two goals each.
Another local curling team in in position to vye for a provincial title.
Isaac Keffer finished with a 3-and 1 record at the Northern Ontario Curling Association's bantam boys inter-regional playdown in Thunder Bay on the weekend to earn one of two spots to the provincial event in Longlac next month.
On the girls side, Samatha Mueller of Fort Frances and Myan Miller of Stratton fell short in their bids to advance.
Game time at the Ice for Kids Arena is 7:30 p.m.
International Falls Broncos girls hockey team hosts Lake of the Woods at Broncos Arena beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Broncos boys basketball team hosts Hibbing - 7:30 p.m. at Falls High School - while the girls team travels to Tower-Soudan.
Last night in local girls hockey, the Rolling Lake Lightning tied Kaemingh Esso 2-2.
Emma Noga and Annalise Hayes did the scoring for their respective teams with two goals each.
Another local curling team in in position to vye for a provincial title.
Isaac Keffer finished with a 3-and 1 record at the Northern Ontario Curling Association's bantam boys inter-regional playdown in Thunder Bay on the weekend to earn one of two spots to the provincial event in Longlac next month.
On the girls side, Samatha Mueller of Fort Frances and Myan Miller of Stratton fell short in their bids to advance.
Shared Costs Sought
The town of Fort Frances will be looking to the area school boards from some help in covering the costs of two proposed capital projects.
The town will again ask the school boards for a share in the cost of relocating the tennis courts to St. Francis Sports Fields - costing about half-a million dollar dollars.
It will also look for shared cost in replacing the stage floor at the Townsend Theatre.
The town will again ask the school boards for a share in the cost of relocating the tennis courts to St. Francis Sports Fields - costing about half-a million dollar dollars.
It will also look for shared cost in replacing the stage floor at the Townsend Theatre.
McDonald's Fundraising Figures
There's been a good show of support for McDonald's fundraising efforts for Haiti at its restaurants in Fort Frances and International Falls.
In the Fort, Seven-hundred and fifty dollars was raised for Doctors Without Borders through Friday's coffee sales.
Another five-hundred dollars was raised for the Salvation Army from the Hotcake sales on Sunday.
While in the Falls, six-hundred and 25 dollars was raised through both the coffee and hotcake sales for the Salvation Army.
Another $600 was collected by the Salvation Army's kettles at the restaurant.
All three restaurants will again be raising money through the sale of its Hotcakes this Sunday.
In the Fort, Seven-hundred and fifty dollars was raised for Doctors Without Borders through Friday's coffee sales.
Another five-hundred dollars was raised for the Salvation Army from the Hotcake sales on Sunday.
While in the Falls, six-hundred and 25 dollars was raised through both the coffee and hotcake sales for the Salvation Army.
Another $600 was collected by the Salvation Army's kettles at the restaurant.
All three restaurants will again be raising money through the sale of its Hotcakes this Sunday.
Cabinet Changes
Premier Dalton McGuinty has promoted four new faces to the Ontario cabinet and dropping three veterans in one of his largest shakeups ever.
Among the new faces are Carole Mitchell as the new minister of agriculture and Linda Jeffrey taking over natural resources from Donna Cansfield.
Brad Duguid becomes the new minister of energy and infrastructure, while Attorney General Chris Bentley will add Duguid's old aboriginal affairs portfolio to his duties.
Jim Bradley moves from transportation to municipal affairs and housing, Kathleen Wynne moves to transportation while former agriculture minister Leona Dombrowsky takes over education.
Michael Gravelle remains as Minister of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry.
Among the new faces are Carole Mitchell as the new minister of agriculture and Linda Jeffrey taking over natural resources from Donna Cansfield.
Brad Duguid becomes the new minister of energy and infrastructure, while Attorney General Chris Bentley will add Duguid's old aboriginal affairs portfolio to his duties.
Jim Bradley moves from transportation to municipal affairs and housing, Kathleen Wynne moves to transportation while former agriculture minister Leona Dombrowsky takes over education.
Michael Gravelle remains as Minister of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry.
Community Safety Zone on Hold
A proposal to establish a community safety zone in the west end of Fort Frances has yet to find its way into this year's budget.
Last fall, members of Safe Communities Rainy River and the town's active transportation committee suggested the zone around J.W. Walker School, St. Francis School and Fort Frances High School as a way of improving pedestrian safety.
But town councillors say more information regarding costs and funds are needed before a decision can be made.
Last fall, members of Safe Communities Rainy River and the town's active transportation committee suggested the zone around J.W. Walker School, St. Francis School and Fort Frances High School as a way of improving pedestrian safety.
But town councillors say more information regarding costs and funds are needed before a decision can be made.
Sunny Cove Upgrades
The town of Fort Frances is proposing $130-thousand in improvements to Sunny Cove Camp this year.
That would cover a number of electrical, mechanical and structural upgrades and changes to make facilities more accessible.
The town is also pegging operating costs at about $54-thousand which is about the same when the Camp was operated by the Fort Frances Kiwanis Club.
The town took ownership of the Camp in a deal with the Kiwanis late last year.
That would cover a number of electrical, mechanical and structural upgrades and changes to make facilities more accessible.
The town is also pegging operating costs at about $54-thousand which is about the same when the Camp was operated by the Fort Frances Kiwanis Club.
The town took ownership of the Camp in a deal with the Kiwanis late last year.
Waste Management Concerns
Declining revenues and higher operating costs for waste management within the town of Fort Frances is among issues impacting the budget.
Councillor Ken Perry says the town needs to find ways of generating revenue through recycling to help offset costs.
"We can't keep paying $4.00 a bag for recycling and $2.00 a bag for dumping garbage at the dump," says Perry. "It's going to get worse and worse."
Perry says there is some interest in the community to do a pilot project, but the proponent has yet to make his proposal public.
Councillor Ken Perry says the town needs to find ways of generating revenue through recycling to help offset costs.
"We can't keep paying $4.00 a bag for recycling and $2.00 a bag for dumping garbage at the dump," says Perry. "It's going to get worse and worse."
Perry says there is some interest in the community to do a pilot project, but the proponent has yet to make his proposal public.
Budget Work Underway
Fort Frances town councillors got down to business last night on the 2010 budget.
New numbers show a shortfall in the operating budget of about $530-thousand which Treasurer Laurie Witherspoon said is partly due to a change in provincial tax ratios.
"When I gave council the information in December I didn't have the new starting ratios the province was going to give us," say Witherspoon. "What I gave you was the estimates based on the 2009 tax rates."
Some reduced costs to proposed projects has trimmed the capital budget from $10.8 million in December to $10.
New numbers show a shortfall in the operating budget of about $530-thousand which Treasurer Laurie Witherspoon said is partly due to a change in provincial tax ratios.
"When I gave council the information in December I didn't have the new starting ratios the province was going to give us," say Witherspoon. "What I gave you was the estimates based on the 2009 tax rates."
Some reduced costs to proposed projects has trimmed the capital budget from $10.8 million in December to $10.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Local Sports for Monday January 18
Rainy River's Tim Nordin defeated Red Lake's Ken Anderson in the final of a Northern Ontario Curling Association's regional event in Red Lake. The win moves Nordin's team to a qualifying event to be played in Marathon next week.
More than 320 runners took part in this year' Freeze Yer Gizzard Blizzard runs in International Falls on Saturday.
Brian Davenport of Minneapolis was the winner in the 10-K race while Jennifer Jones of Florida was the top female finisher.
In the 5-K event, Tyler Lehman of Littlefork crossed the line first while Hailey O'Donnell of Fort Frances was tops among the women.
Fort Frances Lakers were dumped 7-2 by the Dryden Ice Dogs in Dryden Saturday.
Henry Guiterrez had both Laker goals.
Fort Frances Canadians Midget AA hockey team lost out in the semi finals of the Championship side of the Wayzata Junior Gold A Tournament to White Bear Lake in a shoot out. The final score was 2-1 with Dillan Grinsell getting the lone goal.
The Canadians went 2-0 in round robin play beating Burnsvlle 6-2 and St. Louis Park 4-2.
Fort Frances Muskies girls' hockey team split NORWOSSA league games on the weekend.
Muskies fell 5-0 to St. Thomas Aquinas of Kenora on Friday, but rebounded Sunday with a 6-3 win over Red Lake.
Carlee Bosma had a pair of goals in the game while Courtney Bethune, Taylor Dixon, Jillian Langtry and Ericka Tymkin added singles.
Rainy River Voyageurs women's hockey team split games against the University of North, winning 3-2 Saturday but dropping a 5-3 decision on Sunday.
Brittany Finnson, Stevie-Lee Langford, Brenley Anderson did the scoring in Saturday's game.
Courtney Scholler with a pair and Anderson had Sunday's markers.
In minor girls hockey, the Rolling Lake Lightning won a pair of games, first edging the Emo Penguins 3-2 on Saturday afternoon.
Annalise Hayes with 2 and Shannon Bird had the Lightning goals while Taylor Croswell and Avery Cates scored for the Penguins.
Sunday, the Lightning defeated the International Falls under-10 girls team 3 - 1 with Lauren Hamilton, Kassidy Fryer and Annalise Hayes doing the scoring.
At Falls High School Friday , the Broncos girls hockey team ended a four-game losing skid with a 5-1 win over Park Rapids.
Broncos boys basketball team won its third in a row with a 88-51 decision over Babbit-Embarrass.
Broncos girls basketball team lost its sixth straight 69-35 to Hibbing.
In college ball, the Rainy River Voyageurs men's basketball team fell 89-84 to Central Lakes in overtime on Friday, but rebounded for an 86-57 win over Itasca Saturday.
The women lost both of their games by identical 71-64 scores.
Fort Frances Muskies senior boys' basketball team earned a silver medal at a tournament in Thunder Bay on the weekend.
Muskies lost to host St. Ignatius in the final 54-33 after defeating St. Patrick's and Westgate in the opening rounds.
Fort Frances Muskies junior Girls Volleyball Team split into two squads for a tournament in Dryden on the weekend.
Team Black was knocked out of the playoffs by Churchill’s “A Team” in two sets while Team Gold reached the semi-finals before losing to Portage Collegiate's grade 10 team in two sets.
More than 320 runners took part in this year' Freeze Yer Gizzard Blizzard runs in International Falls on Saturday.
Brian Davenport of Minneapolis was the winner in the 10-K race while Jennifer Jones of Florida was the top female finisher.
In the 5-K event, Tyler Lehman of Littlefork crossed the line first while Hailey O'Donnell of Fort Frances was tops among the women.
Fort Frances Lakers were dumped 7-2 by the Dryden Ice Dogs in Dryden Saturday.
Henry Guiterrez had both Laker goals.
Fort Frances Canadians Midget AA hockey team lost out in the semi finals of the Championship side of the Wayzata Junior Gold A Tournament to White Bear Lake in a shoot out. The final score was 2-1 with Dillan Grinsell getting the lone goal.
The Canadians went 2-0 in round robin play beating Burnsvlle 6-2 and St. Louis Park 4-2.
Fort Frances Muskies girls' hockey team split NORWOSSA league games on the weekend.
Muskies fell 5-0 to St. Thomas Aquinas of Kenora on Friday, but rebounded Sunday with a 6-3 win over Red Lake.
Carlee Bosma had a pair of goals in the game while Courtney Bethune, Taylor Dixon, Jillian Langtry and Ericka Tymkin added singles.
Rainy River Voyageurs women's hockey team split games against the University of North, winning 3-2 Saturday but dropping a 5-3 decision on Sunday.
Brittany Finnson, Stevie-Lee Langford, Brenley Anderson did the scoring in Saturday's game.
Courtney Scholler with a pair and Anderson had Sunday's markers.
In minor girls hockey, the Rolling Lake Lightning won a pair of games, first edging the Emo Penguins 3-2 on Saturday afternoon.
Annalise Hayes with 2 and Shannon Bird had the Lightning goals while Taylor Croswell and Avery Cates scored for the Penguins.
Sunday, the Lightning defeated the International Falls under-10 girls team 3 - 1 with Lauren Hamilton, Kassidy Fryer and Annalise Hayes doing the scoring.
At Falls High School Friday , the Broncos girls hockey team ended a four-game losing skid with a 5-1 win over Park Rapids.
Broncos boys basketball team won its third in a row with a 88-51 decision over Babbit-Embarrass.
Broncos girls basketball team lost its sixth straight 69-35 to Hibbing.
In college ball, the Rainy River Voyageurs men's basketball team fell 89-84 to Central Lakes in overtime on Friday, but rebounded for an 86-57 win over Itasca Saturday.
The women lost both of their games by identical 71-64 scores.
Fort Frances Muskies senior boys' basketball team earned a silver medal at a tournament in Thunder Bay on the weekend.
Muskies lost to host St. Ignatius in the final 54-33 after defeating St. Patrick's and Westgate in the opening rounds.
Fort Frances Muskies junior Girls Volleyball Team split into two squads for a tournament in Dryden on the weekend.
Team Black was knocked out of the playoffs by Churchill’s “A Team” in two sets while Team Gold reached the semi-finals before losing to Portage Collegiate's grade 10 team in two sets.
Church Alcohol Purchases Questioned
Ontario's liquor agency is losing faith in the way churches buy their sacramental wine in the province.
An internal report for the Liquor Control Board of Ontario says the current rules are too lax and are being abused by some unscrupulous operators.
Priests, ministers, rabbis and others have long been allowed to buy sacramental wine, brandy, cognac and liqueur outside the otherwise strict rules set by the LCBO, as long as the products are used in religious ceremonies in a regular place of worship.
An internal report for the Liquor Control Board of Ontario says the current rules are too lax and are being abused by some unscrupulous operators.
Priests, ministers, rabbis and others have long been allowed to buy sacramental wine, brandy, cognac and liqueur outside the otherwise strict rules set by the LCBO, as long as the products are used in religious ceremonies in a regular place of worship.
Beer Name Challenged
Ontario's alcohol and gaming commission is taking shots at Alberta-based Boxer Beer.
The agency received a complaint that the beer's name could be construed as using sports to advertise -- which isn't allowed under Ontario's liquor regulations.
The brewing company says it's surprised by the investigation, noting that it worked with the agency for several months to make sure it had have all its approvals.
Sunset Country Talks with Government
The Ontario Sunset Country Travel Association plans to take part in the province's meetings on the new tourism region for all of Northern Ontario.
Gerry Cariou says despite their objections to the large tourism organization they still plan to voice their thoughts to the government.
"The province has decided one organization for the 80 per cent of the land mass is the right thing to do," says Cariou. "We disagree with that but we're participating anyway because it doesn't appear to be a democracy in Ontario. It appears to be an autocracy."
Cariou says Sunset Country will continue to exist on its own since 70 percent of its funding is based on memberships with the rest coming from the province.
Gerry Cariou says despite their objections to the large tourism organization they still plan to voice their thoughts to the government.
"The province has decided one organization for the 80 per cent of the land mass is the right thing to do," says Cariou. "We disagree with that but we're participating anyway because it doesn't appear to be a democracy in Ontario. It appears to be an autocracy."
Cariou says Sunset Country will continue to exist on its own since 70 percent of its funding is based on memberships with the rest coming from the province.
Budget Meeting Tonight
Fort Frances council will met tonight for the its first line-by-line discussion on the 2010 budget.
Going in, preliminary figures back in December showed the town's looking at an operating budget deficit of about $400-thousand.
About $11-million dollars in capital spending was also proposed.
Going in, preliminary figures back in December showed the town's looking at an operating budget deficit of about $400-thousand.
About $11-million dollars in capital spending was also proposed.
EDC Explored in Fort Frances
The chair of Fort Frances' economic development advisory committee says the town's study of a new economic development commission may benefit the town.
Bill Gushalak, whose committee recommended the study, says it could put the town in a better position to take advantage of future opportunities.
"We want to make sure that if we have an economic development commission in place that perhaps we can be a little more hand-ons for some of the existing businesses and industry here," says Gushalak, "so that as people reach ages of retirement or need assistance for new areas to delve into it would be wonderful to have a person on board."
Gushalak says he sees the creation of the new commission working cooperatively with the Rainy River Future Development Corporation, which now handles economic development for the town.
Bill Gushalak, whose committee recommended the study, says it could put the town in a better position to take advantage of future opportunities.
"We want to make sure that if we have an economic development commission in place that perhaps we can be a little more hand-ons for some of the existing businesses and industry here," says Gushalak, "so that as people reach ages of retirement or need assistance for new areas to delve into it would be wonderful to have a person on board."
Gushalak says he sees the creation of the new commission working cooperatively with the Rainy River Future Development Corporation, which now handles economic development for the town.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Local Sports for Friday January 15
Three district men's curling teams are taking part in a Northern Ontario Currling Association regional event in Red Lake, a step towards earning a spot at the provincials next month.
Rinks skipped Trevor Bonot of Stratton, Tim Nordin of Rainy River and Wayne Beacham of Fort Frances will open play tonight.
Four third period goals gave the K & A Wolverines a 7-4 win over the Fort Frances Lakers at the Ice for Kids Arena last night.
The Lakers are in Dryden tomorrow.
In High School action, Fort Frances Muskies junior boys' basketball team defeated Dryden 61-33 while the seniors were 36-23 winners.
The girls' volleyball teams were not as successful with both the senior and junior teams dropping 3-set matches to the Eagles.
Tonight, the Muskies girls' hockey team travels to Kenora to play St. Thomas Aquanis.
A busy today for Falls High School teams.
The Broncos girls' hockey team travels to play Park Rapids.
The boys' basketball team hosts Babbit-Embarrass - 7:30 at Falls High School while the girls team is in Hibbing.
Fort Frances Canadians Midget AA team heads to Wayzata, Minnesota to participate in a Junior Gold A tournament.
Canadians open play tomorrow morning against Burnsville.
Rainy River Community College basketball teams are at Central Lakes tonight and Itasca tomorrow.
Rinks skipped Trevor Bonot of Stratton, Tim Nordin of Rainy River and Wayne Beacham of Fort Frances will open play tonight.
Four third period goals gave the K & A Wolverines a 7-4 win over the Fort Frances Lakers at the Ice for Kids Arena last night.
The Lakers are in Dryden tomorrow.
In High School action, Fort Frances Muskies junior boys' basketball team defeated Dryden 61-33 while the seniors were 36-23 winners.
The girls' volleyball teams were not as successful with both the senior and junior teams dropping 3-set matches to the Eagles.
Tonight, the Muskies girls' hockey team travels to Kenora to play St. Thomas Aquanis.
A busy today for Falls High School teams.
The Broncos girls' hockey team travels to play Park Rapids.
The boys' basketball team hosts Babbit-Embarrass - 7:30 at Falls High School while the girls team is in Hibbing.
Fort Frances Canadians Midget AA team heads to Wayzata, Minnesota to participate in a Junior Gold A tournament.
Canadians open play tomorrow morning against Burnsville.
Rainy River Community College basketball teams are at Central Lakes tonight and Itasca tomorrow.
Crisis Centre Name Change
It's now official.
The Atikokan Crisis Centre's name change has been approved by the provincial government.
It's now called the Rainy River District Women's Shelter of Hope.
The Atikokan Crisis Centre's name change has been approved by the provincial government.
It's now called the Rainy River District Women's Shelter of Hope.
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