The federal government is responding to Couchiching First Nations plans to set up a toll booth later this month.
In an e-mail to B-93, Michelle Yao, a spokesperson for Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl, says the government is committed to working with the band and the province in resolving the issues cited as reasons for the toll.
But Yao says an open dialogue is much more constructive and effective in dealing with the band's concerns.
Last night, band council held a community meeting to update residents on their plans for the May 21st toll.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Deer Proposals Put Forward
The town of Fort Frances has filed its application for federal funding to help chase deer away from the airport.
The money would be for a 5,800 metre long fence, costing about $300-thousand.
The town is also seeking approval from the Ministry of Natural Resources on plans to deal with deer if funding doesn't come through.
It includes installing motion detection noise equipment along main deer trails near the airport and allowing a bow hunt cull if and when deer become a major concern to aircraft.
Rafferty Loses Support
John Rafferty's private members bill to provide protection to workers and their pensions when companies restructure or enter bankruptcy proceedings appears to have hit a snag.
After last week receiving hints that all parties would support it going to the committee level, the M-P for Thunder Bay-Rainy River says it now appears Conservatives are planning to put a stop to the bill.
"I guess what saddens me the most is to think that Conservatives are listen more to bank lobbyists than to ordinary Canadians," says Rafferty.
Rafferty is suggesting residents call Conservative M-P's or the Prime Minister to voice their displeasure.
Gun Registry Support
Survivors of the Montreal massacre 21 years ago head to Ottawa today in hopes of saving the long-gun registry.
Among those who will be the nation's capital today is Suzanne Laplante Edward, whose daughter, Anne-Marie, was one of 14 women murdered by a crazed gunman at the Ecole Polytechnique in 1989.
Edward is pressing for the defeat of a private member's bill that calls for the long-gun registry to be scrapped.
The bill, tabled by Tory M-P Candice Hoeppner, has received second reading in the Commons, where it was supported by eight Liberals and a-third of the N-D-P caucus.
Edward wants N-D-P Leader Jack Layton to force his MPs to vote against the bill on third reading.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty is among those who supports the bills.
Province to Help C.A.S.
Premier Dalton McGuinty is making overtures to Children's Aid Societies who have gone to court for more money.
McGuinty says he wants to work with the agencies to fix their funding problems.
The premier acknowledges there's a "real issue'' when it comes to funding the agencies, but questions why these challenges persist despite increased funding and a drop in the number of children in care.
McGuinty says he wants to work with the agencies to fix their funding problems.
The premier acknowledges there's a "real issue'' when it comes to funding the agencies, but questions why these challenges persist despite increased funding and a drop in the number of children in care.
Roller Derby Fundraiser
Efforts to develop a women's roller derby team in Fort Frances are now turning to a place to play.
About thirty women have signed up to be a part of the new team and are holding practices every Wednesday at 52 Canadians Rink.
But organizer Crystal Caul says they would like a more permanent home.
"Ultimately we like to purchase our own space," says Caul, "as derby has no set schedule. There is no season. We can play 12 months of the year. Right now we would like to be able to afford to lease space."
The group is about to embark on a fundraising campaign to raise the necessary funds.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Doctors to be Recognized
The Fort Frances Physician Recruitment and Retention Committee is setting aside a week for the local community to show its appreciation to local doctors.
The week of May 31 is being designated Physicians Appreciation Week.
Chair and Fort Frances councillor Andrew Hallikas says it is long overdue.
"There are eleven doctors in town," says Hallikas, "and three of them are in their 70's and 80's. They're all working awful hard to make sure we get the appropriate health care that we need."
Part of the week will include a banquet at the Memorial Sports Centre.
The week of May 31 is being designated Physicians Appreciation Week.
Chair and Fort Frances councillor Andrew Hallikas says it is long overdue.
"There are eleven doctors in town," says Hallikas, "and three of them are in their 70's and 80's. They're all working awful hard to make sure we get the appropriate health care that we need."
Part of the week will include a banquet at the Memorial Sports Centre.
Transportation Survey Underway
A group working to establish a public transportation system in the Rainy River district is looking for public input.
Gerd O'Sullivan, chair of the Regional Planning Group, says they've launched a survey as they work toward finding the necessary start-up funding.
"We need to be able to show that people are willing to use the transportation," says O'Sullivan. "We put the survey out to see if people would use it and what they would think it would be a fair cost on it because it can't be free,"
The survey will continue until the end of May.
Gerd O'Sullivan, chair of the Regional Planning Group, says they've launched a survey as they work toward finding the necessary start-up funding.
"We need to be able to show that people are willing to use the transportation," says O'Sullivan. "We put the survey out to see if people would use it and what they would think it would be a fair cost on it because it can't be free,"
The survey will continue until the end of May.
Drug Battle Continues
Health Minister Deb Matthews denies claims that Ontario's generic drug changes will reduce the quality of health care.
Matthews says it's wrong and misleading to characterize the drug reforms as a cut to health care.
Critics argue that pharmacists will lose their jobs if the government pushes ahead with its plan to get rid of millions of dollars in fees paid by drug companies.
Matthews says it's wrong and misleading to characterize the drug reforms as a cut to health care.
Critics argue that pharmacists will lose their jobs if the government pushes ahead with its plan to get rid of millions of dollars in fees paid by drug companies.
Energy Credit an Insult
The McGuinty governments' Northern Energy Credit is being called an insult.
Conservative MPP Randy Hillier says the program is laughable.
"This tax credit is only fully utilized if you make less than $35,000 a year," says Hillier. "As soon as you start making more than $35,000, that tax credit starts getting clawed back."
Hillier says in some parts of the north, the credit, to come out this fall, won't even cover one month of the HST.
Conservative MPP Randy Hillier says the program is laughable.
"This tax credit is only fully utilized if you make less than $35,000 a year," says Hillier. "As soon as you start making more than $35,000, that tax credit starts getting clawed back."
Hillier says in some parts of the north, the credit, to come out this fall, won't even cover one month of the HST.
AbitibiBowater Presents Plan
AbitibiBowater has filed its restructuring plan that will see its current shareholders wiped out and unsecured creditors own a stake in the reorganized company.
The plan will also see non-disputed pre-petition secured, administrative, debtor-in-possession and other priority claims paid in full in cash.
Before emerging from creditor protection, the company must secure exit financing and address labour costs and pension issues, as well as other conditions.
The plan will also see non-disputed pre-petition secured, administrative, debtor-in-possession and other priority claims paid in full in cash.
Before emerging from creditor protection, the company must secure exit financing and address labour costs and pension issues, as well as other conditions.
Fire Ban in Place Koochiching
The ban on burning has lifted in northwestern Ontario, but burning restrictions are remaining in effect in Minnesota's Koochiching County.
The Department of Natural Resources says rains over the weekend considerably reduced the threat of wildfires, but much more rain and a greening of vegetation are required before the seasonal fire danger abates.
The Department of Natural Resources says rains over the weekend considerably reduced the threat of wildfires, but much more rain and a greening of vegetation are required before the seasonal fire danger abates.
Celebrate Ontario Money Received
The Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship is getting a financial boast from the provincial government.
Tom Fry says the Celebrate Ontario funding will be used toward the entertainment portion of this year's event.
"This year we got $45-thousand," says Fry, "and that is primarily for our entertainment package. We haven't finalized it right now, but we are in the process of booking a top notched band for the Friday night."
Similar funding last year helped bring Kim Mitchell to Fort Frances.
Tom Fry says the Celebrate Ontario funding will be used toward the entertainment portion of this year's event.
"This year we got $45-thousand," says Fry, "and that is primarily for our entertainment package. We haven't finalized it right now, but we are in the process of booking a top notched band for the Friday night."
Similar funding last year helped bring Kim Mitchell to Fort Frances.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Bond Getting Good Rating
A strong bond rating is allowing the city of International Falls to move ahead with the construction of a new headquarters for Voyageur's National Park and an amphitheatre along the Rainy River waterfront.
Moody's has given the city at A1 rating on a bonding issue that will be used to pay the $8.9 million price tag for the project.
A long term lease with the National Park Service will cover the bond.
Construction could begin within the next two weeks.
Moody's has given the city at A1 rating on a bonding issue that will be used to pay the $8.9 million price tag for the project.
A long term lease with the National Park Service will cover the bond.
Construction could begin within the next two weeks.
Black Knot Present
The presence of a fungal disease commonly known as Black Knot has forced the city of International Falls to cut down a number of trees.
City officials says the disease is effecting mostly Canadian Chokecherry trees and is believed to have been spread from wild or cultivated plum and cherry trees.
The city is now asking homeowners to check trees in their yards for signs of the disease.
Native Population Studied
A new study on the demographics of northwestern Ontario's native population.
Spokesperson Alexis Mantell says Ontario Trillium's Foundation says their key finding was that the area's aboriginal population is getting younger and growing at a faster rate than other sectors.
"Between 2001 and 2006 the number of aboriginal people grew by 21.5 per cent," says Mantell. "That clearly outpaces overall population in the area of just 0.1. per cent."
Mantell says the study did not look at the reasons behind changes in demographics.
Spokesperson Alexis Mantell says Ontario Trillium's Foundation says their key finding was that the area's aboriginal population is getting younger and growing at a faster rate than other sectors.
"Between 2001 and 2006 the number of aboriginal people grew by 21.5 per cent," says Mantell. "That clearly outpaces overall population in the area of just 0.1. per cent."
Mantell says the study did not look at the reasons behind changes in demographics.
CFOB Looking to Reach Atikokan
CFOB could be broadcasting back into the town of Atikokan this summer.
It's owners, Northwoods Broadcasting, is seeking government approval to restore the signal.
Atikokan is now serviced by CKDR, our sister station in Dryden.
But company vice-president Jim McMullin says meetings with residents and businesses showed Atikokan has stronger ties with Fort Frances and would be better served by restoring the original service from CFOB.
Wait Lists Plaque Local Area
Local officials say it's better than other parts of Ontario, but area children who require mental health services are still having to wait between four to six months for services.
Troy Clink of Family and Children Services Rainy River says the fact provincial funding has increased just once in the past fifteen years hasn't helped.
"What that has done is really limited the services," says Clink, "because if you're not getting any funding increases, your not able to have as many as mental health staff available to kids which in turn creates the wait list."
As part of Children's Mental health awareness week, FACS is hosting free bowling in Atikokan and in Fort Frances later this week.
Swear Jars Set Up
The Canadian Mental Health Association wants area residents and businesses to set up "swear jars" this week.
Nancy Daley-Fulton says it's aimed to educating people how the use of certain words perpetuate the stigma associated with mental illness.
"We all commonly interject words like crazy, nuts, loony or psycho, into our everyday language as a way of explaining having a bad day or how somebody is effecting our behaviour," says Daley-Fulton. "It's just trying to make people aware of those words because they do have a detrimental effect on people with a mental illness."
The money collected will go to the Association's STEP Centre food program.
Catholic Education Week
Catholic Education is being celebrated in schools across northwestern Ontario.
Education Director for the Northwest District Catholic School Board Mary-Catherine Kelly says this year's theme is "Rejoicing in Hope."
"What we're trying to do is celebrate what's good about catholic education," says Kelly, "and let our public know about the distinctiveness of a faith-based catholic education school system. Each day we're going to celebrated hope in hearts, in our homes, in our schools, in our communities and in our world."
A number of events are planned in area schools.
More Energy Conservation Needed
Ontario's environmental commissioner says if the province is serious about energy conservation it should focus on ways to cut down the consumption of gasoline and other transport fuels.
Environmental Commissioner Gord Miller says the government's``ad-hoc'' plan is too focused on electricity conservation and doesn't address ways to conserve other forms of energy.
Yet transportation fuel costs and consumption are rising to unsustainable levels, and the government should be investing in transit and consider moving toward rail delivery instead of transport trucks where reasonable.
Miller says he's disappointed with a recent delay in transit expansion in Toronto, saying it sends the wrong signal on energy conservation.
Hospital Salaries Changed
Chief executive officers at Ontario hospitals will soon see their salaries tied to performance targets that result in better outcomes for patients.
The Liberal government is introducing legislation today that it says will make health-care providers and executives accountable for improving patient care.
The bill will also require hospitals to create quality committees and annual quality improvement plans.
The Liberal government is introducing legislation today that it says will make health-care providers and executives accountable for improving patient care.
The bill will also require hospitals to create quality committees and annual quality improvement plans.
Area Officer Charged
Ontario Provincial Police have charged one of their own in connection with two domestic dispute cases that occurred last Thursday and Friday.
His name nor the detachment where the seven-year OPP veteran works are being released in order to protect the name of the victim.
The officer, who was off duty at the time, will appear in Fort Frances court June 7 on two charges of assault.
Forest Tenure Changes Launched
The McGuinty government is proposing sweeping changes to the way wood cutting licences are awarded.
Effectively, large forestry companies would have their current licences scrapped and they'd have to start over.
Forestry Minister Michael Gravelle admits the changes are bold.
"When the Premier asked me to take on the responsibilities of forestry, I felt as a northerner it was important that we try to work to take on measures that were in the best long-term interest of the forestry sector."
Public hearings on the proposed changes start in Thunder Bay May 18.
Race Relations Explored
Relations between native and non-native people in Fort Frances is part of a research project conducted by a Harvard University student.
Jeff Dennis, a sociology student, says its an issues that hasn't received a lot of attention in the past.
"There's a lot of research about health issues and economic development issues," says Dennis, "but nobody's really studied the relationships between the two communities and I think that's so important for the future of the district and region."
Part of his research included a photovoice project where he asked people to take photos that reflected project's theme.
They were recently on display at the Fort Frances Museum.
Jeff Dennis, a sociology student, says its an issues that hasn't received a lot of attention in the past.
"There's a lot of research about health issues and economic development issues," says Dennis, "but nobody's really studied the relationships between the two communities and I think that's so important for the future of the district and region."
Part of his research included a photovoice project where he asked people to take photos that reflected project's theme.
They were recently on display at the Fort Frances Museum.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Gas Tax Money Advanced
Area Municipalities are getting an advance in their federal gas tax money they're to receive over the next four years.
Fort Frances will receive $497-thousand of the nearly two-million to be received by 2014.
The town is earmarking the money towards second phase of road improvements along Portage Avenue.
That work is to begin May 10.
Fort Frances will receive $497-thousand of the nearly two-million to be received by 2014.
The town is earmarking the money towards second phase of road improvements along Portage Avenue.
That work is to begin May 10.
Handwashing Survey
A new survey indicates Ontario hospital workers still aren't washing their hands as often as they should before entering a patient's room.
They're supposed to scrub up every time they deal with a patient -- but the latest provincial survey suggests they fail to do so about a third of the time.
According to Ministry of Health Data, staff at Riverside Health Care Facilities were hand washing 60 per cent of the time before making contact with patients and 66 per cent afterwards.
Fire Situation Eases
The weekend weather appears to have help ease the forest fire situation in northwestern Ontario.
The Ministry of Natural Resources reports no new fires yesterday and just three active.
There has not been a reported fire in the Rainy River district since April 24.
A similar situation in northern Minnesota where the fire danger has been downgraded to a low rating.
Just one new fire was reported yesterday, that in the area of Sandstone, north of the Twin Cities.
Education Week
It's education week in Ontario.
Education Director for the Rainy River District School Board Heather Campbell says this year's theme is "Preparing Our Students for Future Success" will be celebrated at all schools this week.
Here are a list of events at schools
Donald Young School
- On May 3, Donald Young School is hosting a Pow Wow;
- On May 4, there is a Book Fair and Hoops for Heart activity;
- The Book Fair continues on May 5 in addition to a spring school assembly and litter-less lunches;
- Students will participate in Jump Rope for Heart on May 6;
- On May 7, there is a Speech contest, and school-wide book buddies activity.
Crossroads School
- On May 5 there is a School Council pancake breakfast for students and staff; a DARE graduation ceremony for Grade 6 students, and The Lavallee Volunteer Fire Department, assisted by Wayne Riches from the Fort Frances Fire Department, will be doing a presentation for students on fire safety;
- The school’s Speech contest will be held on May 7.
F.H. Huffman School
- On May 4 at Huffman School, Lunch with an Author is from 12:30-1:05;
- On May 5, Community member are reading with students from 9:30-10:30;
- May 6 is Jump Rope for Heart from 11:15-12:30;
- Festival highlights are on May 7 with Senior Kindergarten, and Grade 1-2 from 12:00-12:30.
J. W. Walker School
- J. W. Walker School Council is holding a pancake breakfast on May 4 from 7:30-8:45 AM;
- May 4 is Multicultural School Spirit Day, and there is a JK Mother's Day Tea;
- On May 5, there is a Book Fair, and another JK Mother's Day Tea;
- On May 6, two teams of students to a Bridge Building Competition at Fort High; Grades 6 to 8 students will attend a Korean presentation;
- Lunch With an Author and a Book Fair are also on May 6;
- The school’s drama club will be performing the production Mirror, Mirror at the school on May 6 at 7 PM, and on May 7 at noon and at 7 PM. Tickets are $5.00 per person;
- The School Speech Contest is on May 7 at 9:15 a.m., and the SK class is taking a trip to Loweys.
McCrosson-Tovell School
- This week at McCrosson-Tovell School there is a Police/Fire Safety presentation; Spirit week activities; Jump Rope for Heart; a swapping clothes drive; Nelson Mandela activities; and a French Café.
Mine Centre School
- Mine Centre School is hosting a Book Fair this week from May 3-7;
- May 3 is PJ Day;
- May 4 is Hat Day, and Open House for Parents;
- May 5 is Crazy Hair Day, and Fitness-Earth Day;
- May 6 is Wear a Tie Day, and Bike Safety lessons;
- On May 7, students are encouraged to wear Purple and Orange, and to donate Toonies for Autism.
North Star Community School
- This week at North Star Community School, Senior Kindergarten to Grade 6 students are making masks, tissue paper flowers, origami boats and dragonflies, and participating in drama workshops;
- Students are challenged to read 4,500 books over a 7-night challenge. If they succeed, on Friday, May 7, Mrs. Labossiere will dress in a chicken suit all day, and parade down Main Street at lunch hour with a sign that says, “North Star students read “eggs-actly ___ books during Education Week”. One student per class will be chosen to parade with her.
- There is a Student Talent Show on May 5 at 6:30 p.m. in the gym.
Riverview School
- At Riverview School students are encouraged to wear their school colours - royal blue & gold - on May 3;
- A Heritage House Visit for Grades JK to Grade 2 is at 10:00 on May 4;
- May 5, is Twin Day and this is also Town of Rainy River Cleanup Day for students;
- On May 6, students are encouraged to wear green in support of environmental awareness. Grade 7 & 8 students are participating in the bridge building activity at Fort Frances High School;
- Jump Rope for Heart is at noon on May 7;
- All week, there will be infromation regarding Nelson Mandela shared on the announcements.
Robert Moore School
- At Robert Moore School on May 4 and 5, students are attending dress rehearsals of the school’s Annie musical production;
- Performances are on May 5 and 6 at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $5.00 per person and will be available at the door.
- May 5 is also the date of the school’s speech contest;
- On May 7, there are playground games, and Lunch with an Author for JK to Grade 3 students.
Sturgeon Creek School
- On May 3, there is a Speech contest at Sturgeon Creek School;
- The school is hosting its spring concert on May 5;
Sturgeon Creek Alternative Program
- Sturgeon Creek Alternative Program students are participating in the Pitch-In School and Community Cleanup on May 4;The school assembly and Grandparents’ Day is on May 5;
- On May 6, there is a School Council meeting.
Atikokan High School
- At Atikokan High School, an Employment Centre booth will be set up all week during lunch break;
- This week, a Student Success Computer lab will be open for career exploration with career sites and online surveys;
- Representatives from Lakehead University will be at Atikokan High School on May 3. This meeting is for Grade 11 students interested in attending Lakehead University, and Grade 12 graduates who will be attending the university next year.
- On May 3, there is a Military Band Music performance at Grayson Hall;
- On May 5, there is a Grade 8 parent transition meeting;
- The Grade 11 GIS and Travel and Tourism classes travel to Ely and Minneapolis from May 5 to 8.
Fort Frances High School
- The Fort Frances High School Parent Council meeting is on May 3;
- The Canadian Forces Band is performing on May 4;
- May 5 is the Magnus Theatre Co-op Display Day;
- May 6 is the Grade 7-8 Bridge Building Competition;
- May 7 is Fort Frances High Staff Appreciation Day.
Rainy River High School
At Rainy River High School this week, there is a library display promoting resources for Boys Literacy and Reluctant Readers; a Peer Mentor orientation for Grade 9 students; a Youth Action Alliance display and presentation; a Pottery/Stain Glass Workshop for Technology students; and a First Nation art presentation.
HST in Place
The harmonized sales tax has arrived for some Ontario residents.
Saturday was the day that consumers in both Ontario and British Columbia started paying H-S-T on a number of services that are to be delivered after July 1st.
That includes such things as theatre packages, airplane tickets and gym memberships.
Many people fear it will drive up the cost of services that were previously exempt from provincial sales tax.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Pither's Point Decision
The town of Fort Frances has been granted the right to continue its use and maintenance of Pither's Point Park.
Mayor Roy Avis says a Superior Court judge has ruled in favour of the town's request until either the issue of ownership can be resolved by the courts or by a further court order.
"We're granted an injunctive relief regarding the Point Park," says Avis, "and we will be trying to maintain it to the status we've had in the past making sure its looked after for all people to enjoy."
Avis doesn't see the granting of the motion putting a halt to their discussions with the area First Nations who are laying claim to the park site.
Local Officials Looking for Government Action
There's been a quick response from the area's senior elected representatives to Couchiching First Nation's plans to set up a toll booth on the Highway through their community next month.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty understands the band's frustration over the lack of a response to their concerns, and hopes to convince government officials to sit down with them to find some solutions.
"I've talked to the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs and the Minister of Health and asked them to intervene in this matter," says Rafferty, "to use their leadership in this issue and to ensure the concerns of all the residents in the region are properly addressed."
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says he'll also be looking for action from the province that begins to address the band's concerns.
"I would hope there would be a response," says Hampton. "I think if any reasonable person looked at some of these issues and saw how long they have dragged on without an resolution, most reasonable people would say 'that's too long,' and government should be doing something to respond in one way or another."
The toll is planned for May 21.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty understands the band's frustration over the lack of a response to their concerns, and hopes to convince government officials to sit down with them to find some solutions.
"I've talked to the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs and the Minister of Health and asked them to intervene in this matter," says Rafferty, "to use their leadership in this issue and to ensure the concerns of all the residents in the region are properly addressed."
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says he'll also be looking for action from the province that begins to address the band's concerns.
"I would hope there would be a response," says Hampton. "I think if any reasonable person looked at some of these issues and saw how long they have dragged on without an resolution, most reasonable people would say 'that's too long,' and government should be doing something to respond in one way or another."
The toll is planned for May 21.
Hydro Outage Unplanned
A pole fire is being blamed for a power outage that affected much of the west end of the Rainy River district late yesterday afternoon.
The outage, which impacted nearly 38-hundred Hydro One customers between Fort Frances and Rainy River, occurred shortly after 4 p.m. and came following a planned one in parts of the district.
Power was fully restored by 9:30 p.m.
MNR Hopes for Lots of Rain
Ministry of Natural Resources Fire Crews will be keeping their eyes on the sky over the next couple of days.
Fire Information Officer, Debbie MacLean says a good drenching this weekend could lead to a lifting of the Restricted Fire Zone.
"Fire managers are considering at this time," says MacLean, "but until we see some definite relief from that rain there will be no change."
There were no fires reported yesterday.
Search Continues
A canine unit is among resources being used in the search of a district man who escaped OPP custody Thursday morning.
Constable Anne McCoy says the man fled while he was inside the Fort Frances detachment.
"The officers were investigating at the detachment," says McCoy, "and Matthews Bradley Meyers, who's 25-years of age and from Emo, fled from custody."
McCoy says the public should consider Meyers dangerous, and call 9-1-1 immediately if he's spotted.
Home Show Starts
(Left: Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce photo)The Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce will kick off its annual Home and Leisure show tonight at the Memorial Sportsplex.
Chamber Manager Anthony Mason says over sixty vendors will be on display.
"It starts today at 4 p.m. and goes until 9 p.m.," says Mason, "and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It's three-dollars to get in and with that you have chance of winning one of two Chamber gift certificates worth $500."
New this year will be the boat show which is jointly promoted by Pinewood Sports and Badiuk Equipment for the first time.
Fundraiser at Home Show
Northwestern Ontario's representative to the Miss Teen Canada-World pageant will be at this weekend's Home and Leisure Show.
18-year-old Felicia Schmutz will be helping to raise money for the Free the Children foundation which helps children in underdeveloped nations.
"They help children get a good education," says Schmutz. "They help with water and sanitation and health care. They've also build five-hundred schools and several water projects."
Schmutz is hoping to raise at least two-thousand dollars and will be situated at the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce booth.
18-year-old Felicia Schmutz will be helping to raise money for the Free the Children foundation which helps children in underdeveloped nations.
"They help children get a good education," says Schmutz. "They help with water and sanitation and health care. They've also build five-hundred schools and several water projects."
Schmutz is hoping to raise at least two-thousand dollars and will be situated at the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce booth.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Toll Booth Planned
Couchiching First Nation is planning to set up a toll both on Highway 11 near the Noden Causeway next month.
Band officials say its over the lack of response to a number of issues they've been long trying to resolve with both the provincial and federal governments.
It includes compensation for land used to build the highway and the contamination of soil at a former sawmill.
The toll is set to go in place May 21.
The band says is also plan to beginning charging launch fees at Five Mile Dock.
Band officials say its over the lack of response to a number of issues they've been long trying to resolve with both the provincial and federal governments.
It includes compensation for land used to build the highway and the contamination of soil at a former sawmill.
The toll is set to go in place May 21.
The band says is also plan to beginning charging launch fees at Five Mile Dock.
Drug Changes Attacked Again
Kenora-Rainy River M-P-P Howard Hampton was on the attack yesterday over proposed drug changes impacting the province's pharmacies.
Hampton told the legislature small pharmacy owners in his riding are worried about the impact to their businesses.
"The independent pharmacies in Red Lake, Emo and Rainy River, if they were forced to close, would have literally thousands of people having to travel, in some cases, 100 kilometres or more to the next pharmacy," said Hampton. "They are concerned that they may have to close, because they see your scheme as a one-size-fits-all strategy that ignores communities in northern Ontario."
Health Minister Deb Matthews says an increase in the dispensing fee provided to pharmacies will offset any losses incurred by the proposed change.
Local Teen Heads to Pageant
The Rainy River district will be represented at a teen pageant this summer.
18-year-old Felicia Schmutz of Emo earned the right to represent northwestern Ontario at the Miss Teen Canada-World pageant in July after competing for the Manitoba title in Winnipeg over the weekend.
"After the show, I was asked if I wanted to represent a section of Winnipeg or northwestern Ontario," says Schmutz. "I really wanted to do northwestern Ontario because it's home and I don't too many have represented the area before."
Schmutz is now hoping to attract sponsorship to attend the July event in Toronto.
18-year-old Felicia Schmutz of Emo earned the right to represent northwestern Ontario at the Miss Teen Canada-World pageant in July after competing for the Manitoba title in Winnipeg over the weekend.
"After the show, I was asked if I wanted to represent a section of Winnipeg or northwestern Ontario," says Schmutz. "I really wanted to do northwestern Ontario because it's home and I don't too many have represented the area before."
Schmutz is now hoping to attract sponsorship to attend the July event in Toronto.
Rail Crossing Improvements
The federal government has announced dozens of projects to make rail crossings safer.
It includes upgrades to a crossing in the Rainy River district.
Transport Minister Rob Merrifield says these improvements will help save lives.
"The investment that the government is making really there to continue the downward trend of accidents and derailments and injuries right across the country," says Merrifield, "particularly in those communities where we are investing."
Thirty-five thousand dollars spent on a crossing at Paquette Road in the township of Dawson will include construction of an access road in conjunction with the crossing's closure.
Blackout today
Some residents in the west end of the district will be in the dark for several hour today.
Hydro One is planning a six hour power interruption impact customers in the townships of Burris, Carpenter, Dance, Devlin and Crozier.
It's to begin at 10 a.m.
Thefts Investigated
OPP are looking into a rash of thefts from vehicles in Atikokan.
Four separate vehicles were broken into over the past two weeks.
Items taken include CD's, an iPOD, guitar, tobacco and cash.
Police say in three of the cases, the vehicles were left unlocked.
Four separate vehicles were broken into over the past two weeks.
Items taken include CD's, an iPOD, guitar, tobacco and cash.
Police say in three of the cases, the vehicles were left unlocked.
Strike Adverted
A last-minute deal has averted a strike by Ontario property assessors.
The strike was set for midnight, but a tentative two-year deal has been reached and the union executive is recommending acceptance.
The contract calls for a wage freeze over the next two years.
There are approximately 15-hundred property assessors in Ontario who determine the value of land and properties in the province.
The strike was set for midnight, but a tentative two-year deal has been reached and the union executive is recommending acceptance.
The contract calls for a wage freeze over the next two years.
There are approximately 15-hundred property assessors in Ontario who determine the value of land and properties in the province.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Canada Day Festivities in Doubt
This year's Canada Day and Fun in the Sun activities in Fort Frances could be in doubt.
Monday, council committed five-thousand dollars towards events, but member Scott Turvey says that's half of what the organizing committee wanted.
"If we don't get cash sponsorship from the business community or a private investor within two weeks, we will be, as a committee, giving Fun in the Sun back to the town in order for it to do whatever the town can do." says Turvey.
Turvey says past events have encountered shortfalls picked up by the committee, something they can no longer afford.
Connecting Link Funding Pondered
A provincial program to help municipalities pay for improvements to roads that link with the provincial highway system remains a big mystery in the minds of Fort Frances town council.
Town has been banking on the money to do a major upgrade of Scott Street, but councillor Paul Ryan says the fate of the program remains uncertain.
"It was supposed to be in the Northern Growth plan," says Ryan. "I've read the Northern Growth plan at least twice and it's not in there. Are they going to call it something else or they're looking at it. It seems to have fallen through the cracks. It's every unfortunate."
Road improvements were a topic of discussion at the recent Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association conference, but councillor Rick Wiedenhoeft says most of the emphasis was on twinning the Trans-Canada Highway.
Town has been banking on the money to do a major upgrade of Scott Street, but councillor Paul Ryan says the fate of the program remains uncertain.
"It was supposed to be in the Northern Growth plan," says Ryan. "I've read the Northern Growth plan at least twice and it's not in there. Are they going to call it something else or they're looking at it. It seems to have fallen through the cracks. It's every unfortunate."
Road improvements were a topic of discussion at the recent Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association conference, but councillor Rick Wiedenhoeft says most of the emphasis was on twinning the Trans-Canada Highway.
Rail Safety Week
Local drivers might be forced to stop at a railway crossing today as part of Rail Safety Week.
Railway police are conducting safety blitzes at crossings right across the country.
National director of Operation Lifesaver Dan Di Tota says they may be inconvenient, but they're designed to make motorists think twice every time they approach crossings.
"Day after day they go over these crossings there are no trains and then there's the one day the trains show up," says Di Tota. "They can't allow for complacency to set in."
Today's blitz will occur in Couchiching with another planned tomorrow at the crossing on McIrvine Road in Fort Frances.
Olive Branch in Drug Battle
Health Minister Deb Matthews says some pharmacists are willing to sit down and talk about the government's proposed changes to Ontario's prescription drugs system.
Matthews says she's eager to speak with pharmacists angry over the plan to slash generic drugs costs and come up with some sort of agreement.
But that small step is unlikely to end the ongoing battle, since a coalition of community pharmacies, which has been the strongest opponents to the changes, still disagrees with the proposals.
Many Driven to Quit
A number of smokers in the Kenora and Rainy River District were driven to quit.
Figures released by the Canadian Cancer Society show 465 individuals made the attempt to quit smoking during the month of March as part of its Driven to Quit Challenge.
That's almost double the number who participated in the contest in 2008.
Seatbelt Blitz Numbers Released
Provincial police say a large majority of motorists in northwestern Ontario are getting the message about wearing their seatbelts.
Sergeant Shelley Garr says a recent seatbelt blitz did lead to 180 charges, compared with 312 in the 2008 campaign.
"The spring seatbelt campaign is increasing public awareness," says Garr. " It does seems to be working. When you look at 180 compared with 312 there's a substantial difference and that's a good thing."
The 10-day blitz also resulted in 12 charges for improperly installed child seats.
Rock'n' For a Reason
A number of local celebrities will be Rock'n' for a Reason this weekend.
Riverside Health Care's Teresa Hazel says they'll be taking part in a new fundraiser for the La Verendrye Hospital Auxiliary during the Home and Leisure show.
"We have to give some credit to the Rainy River Hospital Auxiliary because they've done it as well," says Hazel, "and they're letting La Verendrye use it here in Fort Frances. They're getting volunteers and special guests to rock on a rocking chair for an hour to raise money."
Sixteen individuals will be taking part and will be asked for pledges from the public.
Riverside Health Care's Teresa Hazel says they'll be taking part in a new fundraiser for the La Verendrye Hospital Auxiliary during the Home and Leisure show.
"We have to give some credit to the Rainy River Hospital Auxiliary because they've done it as well," says Hazel, "and they're letting La Verendrye use it here in Fort Frances. They're getting volunteers and special guests to rock on a rocking chair for an hour to raise money."
Sixteen individuals will be taking part and will be asked for pledges from the public.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Economic Development Changes Considered
The Rainy River Future Development Corporation is proposing an enhancement of economic development services for the town of Fort Frances.
Client Services Manager Geoff Gillon says it includes provisions for more involvement by the town's economic development advisory committee.
"They are an advisory committee to council, so they respond when (council) asks," says Gillon. "What we would like to have council do is have the advisory council review the current terms of reference and come back to council with recommendations on how they'd like to change that."
Gillon says because the current contract is partly funded in part by FEDNOR, the changes would need the agency's approval.
He doesn't expect the changes to cost more money, but is asking the town to set aside $20-thousand to offset costs FEDNOR may not cover.
Client Services Manager Geoff Gillon says it includes provisions for more involvement by the town's economic development advisory committee.
"They are an advisory committee to council, so they respond when (council) asks," says Gillon. "What we would like to have council do is have the advisory council review the current terms of reference and come back to council with recommendations on how they'd like to change that."
Gillon says because the current contract is partly funded in part by FEDNOR, the changes would need the agency's approval.
He doesn't expect the changes to cost more money, but is asking the town to set aside $20-thousand to offset costs FEDNOR may not cover.
Union Gas Upgrades to Continue
Union Gas will resume work to replace aging pipe and gas meters in Fort Frances next month.
Director of Engineering Doug Alexander says much of the work this year will be in the town's east end.
"We will work on roughly 1,500 service connections," says Alexander. "Of that we will simply reconnect 995 services, but will also put in 524 new services of the old steel pipe that was put in back in 1971."
The gas company is into the second year of a $10-million project.
Director of Engineering Doug Alexander says much of the work this year will be in the town's east end.
"We will work on roughly 1,500 service connections," says Alexander. "Of that we will simply reconnect 995 services, but will also put in 524 new services of the old steel pipe that was put in back in 1971."
The gas company is into the second year of a $10-million project.
DSSAB Vote On Hold
Municipalities in the Rainy River district continue to wait the outcome of a vote on a proposed change to how they fund the Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board.
The vote, which needs both a majority of municipalities and electoral votes to pass, was conducted earlier this month.
Municipal officials say they now trying to determine the number of voters in the unorganized areas which could impact the final tally.
The Municipal Provincial Assessment Corporation is helping to determine the numbers, but there is no word when they will be made known to the DSSAB board.
The vote, which needs both a majority of municipalities and electoral votes to pass, was conducted earlier this month.
Municipal officials say they now trying to determine the number of voters in the unorganized areas which could impact the final tally.
The Municipal Provincial Assessment Corporation is helping to determine the numbers, but there is no word when they will be made known to the DSSAB board.
Pension Bill Gets Support
A private members' bill that aims to protect workers' pensions when a company restructures or enters into bankruptcy proceedings got its first debate in the House of Commons' yesterday.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty says he was pleased with how the other parties responded to his bill.
"All of the parties indicated a desire to get it into committee so they can call some witnesses and bring the bill back to the house," says Rafferty. "There certainly seems to be a will among all of us to work cooperatively on this."
A final vote is expected sometime in the fall.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Festival Ends
Robert Moore School students were at the top of the list of winners on the final day of the Rainy River Festival of the Performing Arts on Friday.
The school earned first place marked in four separate English Drama classes.
J.W. Walker and St. Francis Schools were winners in two categories.
Callahan Wiedenhoeft was the top individual winner with two first place honours.
The annual highlights concert will be held this Sunday at Townshend Theatre.
Here is a list of all winners from Friday
FESTIVAL RESULTS, ENGLISH DRAMA DIVISION, Friday, April 23, 2010
CLASS A900
First – St. Francis NSL, Grade 6 – Corine Bannon
CLASS A1200-A
First – Robert Moore School, Grade 4 – Mrs. Donald
CLASS A1200-B
First – Robert Moore School, Grade 5 – Mrs. Donald
CLASS A700-C
Huffman School, Kindergarten/Grade 1 – Karen Peltomaki (Non-Competitive)
CLASS A703-A
First – J. W. Walker School, Grades 2 and 3 – J. Johanson
CLASS A703-B
First – Robert Moore School, Grade 3 – Mrs. Norris
CLASS A704-B
First – Robert Moore School, Grade 4 – Mrs. Beckett
CLASS A704-C
First – J. W. Walker School, Grade 4 – J. Johanson
CLASS A705-B
First – St. Francis School, Grades 4 and 5 – Solange Busch
CLASS A101-D
Jenaya DeBenetti (Non-Competitive)
CLASS A103-B
First – Callahan Wiedenhoeft
CLASS A103-F
First – Mira Donaldson
CLASS A103-D
First – Callahan Wiedenhoeft
CLASS A104-D
First – Siobhan Mackintosh
Second – Olivia DeBenedet
CLASS A105-A
First – Jade Green
CLASS A105-D
First – Mackenzie Wright
Second – Joleigh Hayes
CLASS A107-A
First – Andrew Eldridge
CLASS A107-E
First – Shawn Brady
CLASS A201
First – Jade Green
CLASS A202
First – Danté Tookenay
The school earned first place marked in four separate English Drama classes.
J.W. Walker and St. Francis Schools were winners in two categories.
Callahan Wiedenhoeft was the top individual winner with two first place honours.
The annual highlights concert will be held this Sunday at Townshend Theatre.
Here is a list of all winners from Friday
FESTIVAL RESULTS, ENGLISH DRAMA DIVISION, Friday, April 23, 2010
CLASS A900
First – St. Francis NSL, Grade 6 – Corine Bannon
CLASS A1200-A
First – Robert Moore School, Grade 4 – Mrs. Donald
CLASS A1200-B
First – Robert Moore School, Grade 5 – Mrs. Donald
CLASS A700-C
Huffman School, Kindergarten/Grade 1 – Karen Peltomaki (Non-Competitive)
CLASS A703-A
First – J. W. Walker School, Grades 2 and 3 – J. Johanson
CLASS A703-B
First – Robert Moore School, Grade 3 – Mrs. Norris
CLASS A704-B
First – Robert Moore School, Grade 4 – Mrs. Beckett
CLASS A704-C
First – J. W. Walker School, Grade 4 – J. Johanson
CLASS A705-B
First – St. Francis School, Grades 4 and 5 – Solange Busch
CLASS A101-D
Jenaya DeBenetti (Non-Competitive)
CLASS A103-B
First – Callahan Wiedenhoeft
CLASS A103-F
First – Mira Donaldson
CLASS A103-D
First – Callahan Wiedenhoeft
CLASS A104-D
First – Siobhan Mackintosh
Second – Olivia DeBenedet
CLASS A105-A
First – Jade Green
CLASS A105-D
First – Mackenzie Wright
Second – Joleigh Hayes
CLASS A107-A
First – Andrew Eldridge
CLASS A107-E
First – Shawn Brady
CLASS A201
First – Jade Green
CLASS A202
First – Danté Tookenay
Fort Frances Council Tonight
Fort Frances councillors will get an update today on Union Gas' plans to upgrade its infrastructure in the town.
The gas company is spending $10-million to replace old lines and meters and began its two-year project in the west end last year.
Also at tonight's regular meeting of council, a decision on whether to proceed with a planned increase in councillors salaries.
Mayor Roy Avis had asked that the increase, approved earlier this year, get a re-think in light of Premier Dalton McGuinty's comments that municipalities consider holding the line on employee wages.
The public portion of tonight's meeting gets underway at about 6:20 p.m.
The gas company is spending $10-million to replace old lines and meters and began its two-year project in the west end last year.
Also at tonight's regular meeting of council, a decision on whether to proceed with a planned increase in councillors salaries.
Mayor Roy Avis had asked that the increase, approved earlier this year, get a re-think in light of Premier Dalton McGuinty's comments that municipalities consider holding the line on employee wages.
The public portion of tonight's meeting gets underway at about 6:20 p.m.
More Human-Caused Fires Reported
A ban on burning in northwestern Ontario did little to prevent the outbreak of more human caused fires over the weekend.
The Ministry of Natural Resources reports 21 new fires in the west fire region, including three in the Rainy River District.
Two of those fires in this region were identified as being human-caused.
The MNR says dry conditions and high to extreme fire hazards with minimal rain in the forecast will keep a restricted fire zone in place for a while.
The Ministry of Natural Resources reports 21 new fires in the west fire region, including three in the Rainy River District.
Two of those fires in this region were identified as being human-caused.
The MNR says dry conditions and high to extreme fire hazards with minimal rain in the forecast will keep a restricted fire zone in place for a while.
Busy Weekend for Local Firefighters
Members of the Fort Frances Fire and Rescue were busy dealing with a number of grass fires of their own.
Among them, a fire that broke out just around midnight last night near the Fort Frances Curling Club and took fire fighters nearly two hours to battle.
Saturday afternoon, fire fighters were called to AbitibiBowater to deal with a fire on a locomotive.
The fire was contained to the engine compartment and no other rail cars were damaged.
The extent of damage to the locomotive was not immediately known.
Among them, a fire that broke out just around midnight last night near the Fort Frances Curling Club and took fire fighters nearly two hours to battle.
Saturday afternoon, fire fighters were called to AbitibiBowater to deal with a fire on a locomotive.
The fire was contained to the engine compartment and no other rail cars were damaged.
The extent of damage to the locomotive was not immediately known.
Organ Donations
There's a strong willingness by northerners to sign organ-donor registrations.
An analysis by the Toronto Star says about 30 per cent of Fort Frances residents registered consent for organ and tissue donation.
In communities west of the town, 17 per cent of residents have signed the donor registry, while it's 37 per cent in Kenora and 29 per cent in Dryden.
The Trillium Gift of Life Network says 90 per cent of Ontarians say they support organ donation -- yet only 17 per cent have registered their intent to donate.
An analysis by the Toronto Star says about 30 per cent of Fort Frances residents registered consent for organ and tissue donation.
In communities west of the town, 17 per cent of residents have signed the donor registry, while it's 37 per cent in Kenora and 29 per cent in Dryden.
The Trillium Gift of Life Network says 90 per cent of Ontarians say they support organ donation -- yet only 17 per cent have registered their intent to donate.
Literacy Coach Time Expanded
The Northwest Catholic District School Board is using several thousands of dollars from its reserve fund to support the increase of literacy-coach time at its area schools.
Board chair Anne-Marie Fitzgerald says increasing the times of its literacy coaches can only lead to improvements in the classroom.
"There goal is to promote student learning and raise achievement in the area of literacy," says Fitzgerald. "We have found the role of the literacy coaches in our schools to have a profoundly positive effective on improving literacy targets board wide."
The $170-thousand will be help cover salary and benefits needed to increase the hours of the literacy coaches.
E-Learning Helping Northern Ontario
The creation of a distance education program for residents in southern Ontario is expanding learning opportunities for northern Ontario citizens.
Raeann Watson, coordinator for Contact North's site in Fort Frances, says they're working with E-learning to bring access to post-secondary institutions and programs never available in the past.
"The best example is Lambton College, working with Sheridan College, working with Confederation College, is putting on the pharmacy tech training right now," says Watson. "Up until Confederation agreed to work with Lambton and Sheridan to put it on, the techs that needed to get that upgrading were scheduled to go to southern Ontario."
Watson says with E-Learning, students can take programs that fit their own schedule.
Raeann Watson, coordinator for Contact North's site in Fort Frances, says they're working with E-learning to bring access to post-secondary institutions and programs never available in the past.
"The best example is Lambton College, working with Sheridan College, working with Confederation College, is putting on the pharmacy tech training right now," says Watson. "Up until Confederation agreed to work with Lambton and Sheridan to put it on, the techs that needed to get that upgrading were scheduled to go to southern Ontario."
Watson says with E-Learning, students can take programs that fit their own schedule.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Fire Ban in Place
The Ministry of Natural Resources is placing a ban on open fires.
Much of northwestern Ontario is now under a Restricted Fire Zone.
The MNR says fire hazard has reached extreme levels due to the unusually dry spring conditions which have resulted in increasing forest fire activity.
The long-term weather forecast offers no relief in the form of significant precipitation.
The ban covers an area between Red Lake and Pickle Lake in the north to the U.S. Border, but excludes Quetico Provincial Park.
Burn restrictions also went into place in Koochiching County and 37 other Minnesota counties today.
Much of the state is also experiencing dry weather conditions.
Campfires are also banned in Voyageurs National Park.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reports almost 900 fires in the state this year.
Cabinet Ministers Attend NOMA
Municipal leaders will sit down with a handful of Provincial Ministers today in Marathon at the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association Conference.
President Anne Krassilowsky says a visit by Transportation Minister Kathleen Wynne will be timely.
"We all know we have transportation issues in more way than one," says Krassilowsky, "looking at public transportation across the province and road conditions, to the challenges of obtaining funding."
Other speakers include Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle and Municipal Affairs Parliamentary Secretary Donna Cansfield.
Meanwhile, delegates are being asked to support a resolution that calls for improvements to FEDNOR.
The resolution suggests the economic development program become a crown agency with a budget of not less than $90 million a year.
It's also calling for grants to be processed within four months.
Sex Ed Proposal On Hold
It's back to the drawing board for the Ontario government on its proposal to update the province's sex education curriculum.
After defending the new sex ed curriculum for two days, Premier Dalton McGuinty suddenly had a change of heart.
McGuinty says it's important to educate elementary kids about sex, but adds the government clearly didn't do a good enough job of consulting parents on the ideas.
He says the Liberal government should have taken time to inform parents about the changes it had in mind.
The opposition parties are accusing McGuinty of making policy on the fly and bowing to pressure from church groups.
Under the changes McGuinty has withdrawn, Grade 1 kids were to be taught to identify genitalia using the correct words, while Grade 3 students would have been taught about same-sex families.
After defending the new sex ed curriculum for two days, Premier Dalton McGuinty suddenly had a change of heart.
McGuinty says it's important to educate elementary kids about sex, but adds the government clearly didn't do a good enough job of consulting parents on the ideas.
He says the Liberal government should have taken time to inform parents about the changes it had in mind.
The opposition parties are accusing McGuinty of making policy on the fly and bowing to pressure from church groups.
Under the changes McGuinty has withdrawn, Grade 1 kids were to be taught to identify genitalia using the correct words, while Grade 3 students would have been taught about same-sex families.
Victims Services Program Holds Open House
An open house yesterday for the Rainy River District Victim Services Program.
The event held to promote it and other services for victims of crimes
Trudy McCormick of the Northwest Community Legal Clinic says her agency is one such group that works hand in hand with the program.
"If they've been a victim of crime there are times when people can be compensated for that," says McCormick. "They can be compensated for out-of-pocket expenses. They can be compensated for pain and suffering. They come to our office and we can help them do the applications, and if it comes to a hearing we can even represent them if they qualify financially."
Dorion Chambers of the Rainy River District Women's Shelter of Hope was among those on hand.
"We have a protocol between Victim services," says Chambers. "It's a transportation protocol. If there's a woman in crisis in the Rainy River district they will assist us in getting that woman to safety to the shelter in Atikokan."
Yesterday's open house was held in conjunction with National Victims of Crime Awareness week.
The event held to promote it and other services for victims of crimes
Trudy McCormick of the Northwest Community Legal Clinic says her agency is one such group that works hand in hand with the program.
"If they've been a victim of crime there are times when people can be compensated for that," says McCormick. "They can be compensated for out-of-pocket expenses. They can be compensated for pain and suffering. They come to our office and we can help them do the applications, and if it comes to a hearing we can even represent them if they qualify financially."
Dorion Chambers of the Rainy River District Women's Shelter of Hope was among those on hand.
"We have a protocol between Victim services," says Chambers. "It's a transportation protocol. If there's a woman in crisis in the Rainy River district they will assist us in getting that woman to safety to the shelter in Atikokan."
Yesterday's open house was held in conjunction with National Victims of Crime Awareness week.
Principal Honoured
Some honours today for a elementary school principal in the Rainy River River District.
Brendan Hyatt is being recognized by the Catholic Principals' Council of Ontario as a regional principal of the year at an event tonight in Windsor.
Hyatt is principal of Our Lady of the Way School in Stratton.
Brendan Hyatt is being recognized by the Catholic Principals' Council of Ontario as a regional principal of the year at an event tonight in Windsor.
Hyatt is principal of Our Lady of the Way School in Stratton.
Festival Ends Today
The Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts will come to end today with the final Drama competitions.
They take place this morning at the Townshend Theatre and this afternoon at Knox United Church
Yesterday, Melissa Fletcher earned five first place certificates in the English Drama division while Shawn Brady led the way in the French drama division with two wins.
They take place this morning at the Townshend Theatre and this afternoon at Knox United Church
Yesterday, Melissa Fletcher earned five first place certificates in the English Drama division while Shawn Brady led the way in the French drama division with two wins.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
First Nations/Hampton Fight HST
Frustrated First Nations groups are planning a protest at the Ontario legislature today in their escalating fight over the H-S-T.
Inside Queen's Park yesterday, Kenora-Rainy River M-P-P Howard Hampton called for native people to be exempt from the HST
"When the McGuinty Liberals faced anti-HST backlash from the real estate industry, the Premier very quickly exempted homes that cost up to $400,000 from the HST," said Hampton. "When Tim Hortons protested against the HST on the coffee and muffin lunch, the McGuinty Liberals very quickly exempted restaurant meals up to $4 in value from the HST. If you care about the plight of First Nations, why will you not act just as quickly to exempt First Nations from the HST?"
First nation leaders say the new harmonized tax will rob them of a point-of-sale exemption on the provincial portion of the merged tax.
Inside Queen's Park yesterday, Kenora-Rainy River M-P-P Howard Hampton called for native people to be exempt from the HST
"When the McGuinty Liberals faced anti-HST backlash from the real estate industry, the Premier very quickly exempted homes that cost up to $400,000 from the HST," said Hampton. "When Tim Hortons protested against the HST on the coffee and muffin lunch, the McGuinty Liberals very quickly exempted restaurant meals up to $4 in value from the HST. If you care about the plight of First Nations, why will you not act just as quickly to exempt First Nations from the HST?"
First nation leaders say the new harmonized tax will rob them of a point-of-sale exemption on the provincial portion of the merged tax.
Trustee Redistribution Accepted
There will be different look to the Northwest Catholic District School Board this fall.
Trustees voted Tuesday night in favour of moving one of three seats designated to Fort Frances to Sioux Lookout.
Board Chair, and Fort Frances trustee Anne-Marie Fitzgerald says it reflects changes in population, but won't impact the decision making at the table.
"It really shouldn't have any affect," says Fitzgerald, "because we do try to base our decisions not by area but whats best for the board as a whole."
An extra seat given to reflect the amalgamation of the former Atikokan Roman Catholic District School Board will be designated to Atikokan.
Seats assigned to Stratton and Dryden remain unchanged.
Trustees voted Tuesday night in favour of moving one of three seats designated to Fort Frances to Sioux Lookout.
Board Chair, and Fort Frances trustee Anne-Marie Fitzgerald says it reflects changes in population, but won't impact the decision making at the table.
"It really shouldn't have any affect," says Fitzgerald, "because we do try to base our decisions not by area but whats best for the board as a whole."
An extra seat given to reflect the amalgamation of the former Atikokan Roman Catholic District School Board will be designated to Atikokan.
Seats assigned to Stratton and Dryden remain unchanged.
Fence Fight Over
A fight over a fence to keep deer off their property has a couple in Fort Frances picking up stakes and moving.
Marie and Lynwood Anderson say they are finished with fighting Fort Frances and are going to pack up and sell their home and move to New Brunswick.
After a long fight, the couple pleaded guilty earlier this month to having a fence not in accordance with town's fencing bylaw, and were given 60 days to remove it.
Marie and Lynwood Anderson say they are finished with fighting Fort Frances and are going to pack up and sell their home and move to New Brunswick.
After a long fight, the couple pleaded guilty earlier this month to having a fence not in accordance with town's fencing bylaw, and were given 60 days to remove it.
Forest Fire Hazard Reaches Extreme
The Ministry of Natural Resources says northwestern Ontario is under a high to extreme forest fire hazard.
Fire information officer Mitch Miller says with no precipitation in the forecast, fire managers are urging the public not to burn.
A ban on fires in organized municipalities within the Rainy River District is still in place.
There have been a total of 100 fires so this season - 13 in the Rainy River district.
Fire information officer Mitch Miller says with no precipitation in the forecast, fire managers are urging the public not to burn.
A ban on fires in organized municipalities within the Rainy River District is still in place.
There have been a total of 100 fires so this season - 13 in the Rainy River district.
Restrictions Imposed
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has added burning restrictions in several counties due to the hazardous fire conditions created by drier weather.
The restrictions imposed in 37 counties, including Koochiching County, affects all burning, including campfires, fireworks, outdoor welding, and prescribed burning.
The restriction will go into effect tomorrow.
The restrictions imposed in 37 counties, including Koochiching County, affects all burning, including campfires, fireworks, outdoor welding, and prescribed burning.
The restriction will go into effect tomorrow.
NOMA Begins
Municipal leaders from across the northwest are in Marathon this week for the annual meeting of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association.
The gathering will be attended by several high level provincial cabinet ministers.
There are about 20 regional issues that will also be discussed over the next three days.
The gathering will be attended by several high level provincial cabinet ministers.
There are about 20 regional issues that will also be discussed over the next three days.
Blood Donor Clinic
A successful first day for the Canadian Blood Services at its blood donor clinics being held at Fort Frances High School.
A total of 146 donors contributed 129 units of blood yesterday.
Spokeperson Harvey Heather says that's eleven over its first day target and will help 387 patients.
The clinic continues today from 12 noon to 3 p.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
A total of 146 donors contributed 129 units of blood yesterday.
Spokeperson Harvey Heather says that's eleven over its first day target and will help 387 patients.
The clinic continues today from 12 noon to 3 p.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Seatbelt Enforcement Blitz Continues
Ontario Provincial Police say a number of area motorists are getting caught driving without their seatbelts.
Police are in the midst of their spring seatbelt enforcement blitz, and Constable Anne McCoy says officers are still finding some motorists and their passengers failing to take the extra second to buckle-up.
"We will get those people who forget to buckle-up," says McCoy, "or are distracted and are not buckling up. It's so important. It is a fine of $240 and two demerit points. It is a dangerous thing (not to use a seatbelt)."
The enforcement blitz continues through to Saturday.
Police are in the midst of their spring seatbelt enforcement blitz, and Constable Anne McCoy says officers are still finding some motorists and their passengers failing to take the extra second to buckle-up.
"We will get those people who forget to buckle-up," says McCoy, "or are distracted and are not buckling up. It's so important. It is a fine of $240 and two demerit points. It is a dangerous thing (not to use a seatbelt)."
The enforcement blitz continues through to Saturday.
Power Increase Coming
Hydro users in Fort Frances can expect to see a jump in their electricity bills next month.
The Fort Frances Power Corporation received approval from the Ontario Energy Board to increase the delivery portion of the bills by about 2.5 per cent.
The increase takes effect May 1st.
The Fort Frances Power Corporation received approval from the Ontario Energy Board to increase the delivery portion of the bills by about 2.5 per cent.
The increase takes effect May 1st.
Forestry Talk at Queens Park
Provincial NDP say much of a fund set up to help the forestry sector remains unused.
Leader Andrea Horwath says they've found about half of the 500-million dollar fund for forestry sector assistance has not been touched.
"Five years ago, the government promised $500 million in forestry sector assistance," says Horwath. "A freedom-of-information request submitted by my office found that $236 million, nearly half of that fund, sits unused. Why do hundreds of millions of forestry dollars sit in a Toronto bank account while families in northern Ontario continue to lose good jobs?"
Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle says the program is just one of many the province has implemented to help the forest sector.
Leader Andrea Horwath says they've found about half of the 500-million dollar fund for forestry sector assistance has not been touched.
"Five years ago, the government promised $500 million in forestry sector assistance," says Horwath. "A freedom-of-information request submitted by my office found that $236 million, nearly half of that fund, sits unused. Why do hundreds of millions of forestry dollars sit in a Toronto bank account while families in northern Ontario continue to lose good jobs?"
Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle says the program is just one of many the province has implemented to help the forest sector.
Sex-Ed Expanded
Premier Dalton McGuinty says he stands by a sexeducation curriculum that will see lessons being taught as early asGrade 3.
The curriculum, to be implemented in September, is raising the ire of so-called family focused groups who say the material is inappropriate.
But McGuinty says kids are going to get their hands on sexual health information and it's better to present them with information from reliable sources.
In Grade 3 kids will start learning about "invisible differences'' between people such as gender identity, sexual orientation and family background.
In Grade 5 kids will be taught to identify parts of there productive system and describe how the body changes during puberty.
The Grade 7 curriculum will include learning ways of preventing unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
The curriculum, to be implemented in September, is raising the ire of so-called family focused groups who say the material is inappropriate.
But McGuinty says kids are going to get their hands on sexual health information and it's better to present them with information from reliable sources.
In Grade 3 kids will start learning about "invisible differences'' between people such as gender identity, sexual orientation and family background.
In Grade 5 kids will be taught to identify parts of there productive system and describe how the body changes during puberty.
The Grade 7 curriculum will include learning ways of preventing unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
Another Sponsor Signed
Another major sponsor is back on board for this year's Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championships.
Mercury Marine renewed its commitment to the tournament yesterday.
Mercury has been a part of the Bass Championship since its inception.
Mercury Marine renewed its commitment to the tournament yesterday.
Mercury has been a part of the Bass Championship since its inception.
Festival Day 7 Results
A busy day at the Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts yesterday with competitions in both vocal and instrumental.
In the vocal division, Lauren Gurski and Emily Turcotte ended their day with four first place finishes, including one as members of a trio.
Taylor Shouldice earned top honours in a vocal class, then won three more first place certificates performing on the fiddle and violin in the evening instrumental performances.
Competitions in Instrumental conclude today at the Townshend Theatre with vocal performances at Knox United Church.
FESTIVAL RESULTS, VOCAL DIVISION, Tuesday, April 20, 2010
CLASS V126
First - Kennedy Latimer
Second - Taylor Shouldice
CLASS V138F
First - Emily Turcotte
CLASS V138M
First - Nelson Bragg
CLASS V139
First - Katelyn Shortreed
Second - Rebecca Sokoliuk
CLASS V108
First - Emily Turcott
Second - Nelson Bragg
CLASS V109
First - Katelyn Shortreed
CLASS V110
First - Lauren Gurski
CLASS V180
First - Lauren Gurski
Second - (TIE) Nelson Bragg, Emily Turcott, Rebecca Sokoliuk
CLASS V186
First - Taylor Shouldice
Second - Kennedy Latimer
CLASS V188
First - Emily Turcott
Second - Nelson Bragg
CLASS V189
First - (TIE) Katelyn Shortreed, Rebecca Sokoliuk
CLASS V179
First - Jessica Whalen
Second - Caitlin Sande
CLASS V172
First - Lauren Gurski
Second - (TIE) Nelson Bragg, Rebecca Sokoliuk
CLASS V222
First - Professional Ensemble: Renée Martin-Brown, Ken Brown, Lisa Vos, Dan Vos
CLASS V181
First - Ken Brown
CLASS V173
First - Ken Brown
CLASS V207
First - Duet: Phoebe-Ann Firth and Isaac Firth
CLASS V206
First - Duet: Anne Jean and McKenna Begin
CLASS V208
First - Duet: Jessica Whalen and Ericka Tymkin
CLASS V213
First - Trio: Emily Turcott, Nelson Bragg and Lauren Gurski
CLASS V171
First - (TIE) Phoebe Firth, Jessica Whalen
Second - Katelyn Shortreed
FESTIVAL RESULTS, INSTRUMENTAL DIVISION, Tuesday, April 20, 2010
CLASS B303
First - Fort Frances High School Band
CLASS B304
First - Fort Frances High School Senior Stage Band
CLASS S1250
First - Katelyn Bruyere
CLASS S1251
First - Taylor Shouldice
CLASS S200
First - Jilayne Derksen
Second - Katelyn Bruyere
CLASS S704
First - Taylor Shouldice
CLASS S1301
First - Taylor Shouldice
CLASS S2700
First - String Ensemble: Fawn Perrault, Jared Hunter, Taylor Voltaros, Kayla Allen and Summer Leonard
CLASS B306
First - Borderland Community Orchestra
In the vocal division, Lauren Gurski and Emily Turcotte ended their day with four first place finishes, including one as members of a trio.
Taylor Shouldice earned top honours in a vocal class, then won three more first place certificates performing on the fiddle and violin in the evening instrumental performances.
Competitions in Instrumental conclude today at the Townshend Theatre with vocal performances at Knox United Church.
FESTIVAL RESULTS, VOCAL DIVISION, Tuesday, April 20, 2010
CLASS V126
First - Kennedy Latimer
Second - Taylor Shouldice
CLASS V138F
First - Emily Turcotte
CLASS V138M
First - Nelson Bragg
CLASS V139
First - Katelyn Shortreed
Second - Rebecca Sokoliuk
CLASS V108
First - Emily Turcott
Second - Nelson Bragg
CLASS V109
First - Katelyn Shortreed
CLASS V110
First - Lauren Gurski
CLASS V180
First - Lauren Gurski
Second - (TIE) Nelson Bragg, Emily Turcott, Rebecca Sokoliuk
CLASS V186
First - Taylor Shouldice
Second - Kennedy Latimer
CLASS V188
First - Emily Turcott
Second - Nelson Bragg
CLASS V189
First - (TIE) Katelyn Shortreed, Rebecca Sokoliuk
CLASS V179
First - Jessica Whalen
Second - Caitlin Sande
CLASS V172
First - Lauren Gurski
Second - (TIE) Nelson Bragg, Rebecca Sokoliuk
CLASS V222
First - Professional Ensemble: Renée Martin-Brown, Ken Brown, Lisa Vos, Dan Vos
CLASS V181
First - Ken Brown
CLASS V173
First - Ken Brown
CLASS V207
First - Duet: Phoebe-Ann Firth and Isaac Firth
CLASS V206
First - Duet: Anne Jean and McKenna Begin
CLASS V208
First - Duet: Jessica Whalen and Ericka Tymkin
CLASS V213
First - Trio: Emily Turcott, Nelson Bragg and Lauren Gurski
CLASS V171
First - (TIE) Phoebe Firth, Jessica Whalen
Second - Katelyn Shortreed
FESTIVAL RESULTS, INSTRUMENTAL DIVISION, Tuesday, April 20, 2010
CLASS B303
First - Fort Frances High School Band
CLASS B304
First - Fort Frances High School Senior Stage Band
CLASS S1250
First - Katelyn Bruyere
CLASS S1251
First - Taylor Shouldice
CLASS S200
First - Jilayne Derksen
Second - Katelyn Bruyere
CLASS S704
First - Taylor Shouldice
CLASS S1301
First - Taylor Shouldice
CLASS S2700
First - String Ensemble: Fawn Perrault, Jared Hunter, Taylor Voltaros, Kayla Allen and Summer Leonard
CLASS B306
First - Borderland Community Orchestra
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Town Back in Court over Pither's Point Park
The town of Fort Frances is heading back to court in an attempt to continue its use of Pither's Point Park.
A hearing on the matter will be held in Superior Court on Thursday in Thunder Bay.
Mayor Roy Avis is reserving comment until after the hearing, but in a release issued this morning, the town says it will bring forward a motion that attempts to clarify the use of the park until legal questions surrounding its use and ownership are resolved.
It adds ongoing negotiations with the federal and provincial governments and area First Nations laying claim to the land, have not led to any resolve.
The town says its also been informed an agreement reached last year with the bands the town to continue maintenance and use of the park is not being extended into this year.
A hearing on the matter will be held in Superior Court on Thursday in Thunder Bay.
Mayor Roy Avis is reserving comment until after the hearing, but in a release issued this morning, the town says it will bring forward a motion that attempts to clarify the use of the park until legal questions surrounding its use and ownership are resolved.
It adds ongoing negotiations with the federal and provincial governments and area First Nations laying claim to the land, have not led to any resolve.
The town says its also been informed an agreement reached last year with the bands the town to continue maintenance and use of the park is not being extended into this year.
Missing Teenager Sought
OPP are seeking the public's assistance in locating a missing Fort Frances teenager.
Police says 16-year-old Caitlin Henderson was last seen last night when she left her home to go on a bike rider.
It's believe her route includes the along the waterfront.
She described as being 5'4", 130 lbs. with brown eyes and having straight black should length hair.
She was last seen wearing a yellow zip-up hoody sweatshirt, faced blue jeans, a white tank top with a grey sleeveless shirt and was riding a newer 21 speed Sportek Aggressor mountain bike, grey in colour.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Caitlin Henderson is asked to contact police.
Police says 16-year-old Caitlin Henderson was last seen last night when she left her home to go on a bike rider.
It's believe her route includes the along the waterfront.
She described as being 5'4", 130 lbs. with brown eyes and having straight black should length hair.
She was last seen wearing a yellow zip-up hoody sweatshirt, faced blue jeans, a white tank top with a grey sleeveless shirt and was riding a newer 21 speed Sportek Aggressor mountain bike, grey in colour.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Caitlin Henderson is asked to contact police.
Man Tasered in I. Falls
Police in International Falls were forced to use a Taser on a man to help put an end to a domestic dispute on the weekend.
Police say a 37-year-old man was holding a .308 caliber gun and using a victim as a shield when officers arrived at an Eighth Street home on Sunday.
The man now faces a charge of felony second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon.
Police say a 37-year-old man was holding a .308 caliber gun and using a victim as a shield when officers arrived at an Eighth Street home on Sunday.
The man now faces a charge of felony second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon.
Commercial Bait Dealers Charged
Two Baudette men have had their commercial minnow licenses revoked for three years.
69-year-old John Hult and 55-year-old Kim Barsness were also fined $1,500 each after being convicted last week in Beltrami County District Court of illegally selling minnows.
An investigation by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources found the two had used invasive species infested equipment from Lake of the Wood to take minnows from another lake.
69-year-old John Hult and 55-year-old Kim Barsness were also fined $1,500 each after being convicted last week in Beltrami County District Court of illegally selling minnows.
An investigation by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources found the two had used invasive species infested equipment from Lake of the Wood to take minnows from another lake.
I. Falls Woman Honoured
An International Falls woman has been recognized for her volunteer efforts with the Rainy Lake Medical Centre.
Marguerite Davison was named Auxiliary Volunteer of the Year at a recent appreciation dinner.
Davison was honoured for her work in the hospital's health information management department.
Marguerite Davison was named Auxiliary Volunteer of the Year at a recent appreciation dinner.
Davison was honoured for her work in the hospital's health information management department.
BIA Changes Proposed
Some Fort Frances business owners are proposing a revamping of the Downtown Business Improvement Association.
George Emes, one of the proponents, says the plan includes setting up new committees overseeing B.I.A. activities without paid staff.
"Over 67-per cent of our budget is going to our operating expenses," says Emes, "and we think that's far too high. We just can't afford it."
Emes says the plan is not intended to scrap the B.I.A. in its entirety but to get more people involved.
The B.I.A. is to discuss the issue at a meeting Thursday.
Seniors Move Questioned
The opposition is questioning why some seniors in Kenora are being told they have to go to Fort Frances for long-term care.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says part of the blame is the government's inability to adequately fund beds at the home in Kenora.
"Many people have written to the minister, and I've written to the minister, asking that the 12 long-term-care beds that are shut down due to lack of funding receive the operating funding they need," says Hampton.
Health Minister Deb Matthews says none of the seniors needing long-term care are leaving the Kenora, but the beds closed don't meet provincial standards.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says part of the blame is the government's inability to adequately fund beds at the home in Kenora.
"Many people have written to the minister, and I've written to the minister, asking that the 12 long-term-care beds that are shut down due to lack of funding receive the operating funding they need," says Hampton.
Health Minister Deb Matthews says none of the seniors needing long-term care are leaving the Kenora, but the beds closed don't meet provincial standards.
Census Numbers
Seventy-two per cent of residents in International Falls filed this years 2010 Census forms.
City officials say more participation is needed.
Councillor Cynthia Jaksa says it could mean the difference in representation both at the state capital and Washington.
"We are going to concede power to the southern part of the State and the State House if we don't get out their and participate," says Jaksa.
Members of the U.S. Census Bureau will be going door-to-door in the near future in attempt to count those who did not file the form by last Friday's deadline.
City officials say more participation is needed.
Councillor Cynthia Jaksa says it could mean the difference in representation both at the state capital and Washington.
"We are going to concede power to the southern part of the State and the State House if we don't get out their and participate," says Jaksa.
Members of the U.S. Census Bureau will be going door-to-door in the near future in attempt to count those who did not file the form by last Friday's deadline.
Cable Changes
Shaw cable and Internet subscribers in Fort Frances may experience some service outages over the next two weeks.
The cable company says its performing a system-wide upgrade to make way for more channels and new services.
The work began yesterday and is to take about two weeks to complete.
The cable company says its performing a system-wide upgrade to make way for more channels and new services.
The work began yesterday and is to take about two weeks to complete.
More Fires
This is wildfire prevention week in Ontario and officials say it's a serious issue because of an unusually mild winter.
There have been a number of new fires across the West Fire Region in recent days and fire officials says that trend is likely to continue.
Yesterday, the Ministry of Natural Resources reported one new human-caused fire in the Rainy River district, bringing to thirteen the number of fires in the first three weeks of the forest fire season.
Northwestern Ontario remains under a high to extreme forest fire hazard.
There have been a number of new fires across the West Fire Region in recent days and fire officials says that trend is likely to continue.
Yesterday, the Ministry of Natural Resources reported one new human-caused fire in the Rainy River district, bringing to thirteen the number of fires in the first three weeks of the forest fire season.
Northwestern Ontario remains under a high to extreme forest fire hazard.
Festival Results Day 6
The first day of vocal performances at the Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts netting a number of multiple winners.
Jade Green led with the way with three first-place finishes.
Ali Jackson, Maggie LeMesurier, Taylor Shouldice, Isaac Firth, Kennedy Latimer, Rebecca Sokoliuk, and Anne Jean were all double winners.
Vocal performances continues today at Knox United Church.
Instrumental and band also get underway tonight at the Townsend Theatre with both the Borderland Community Orchestra and Fort Frances High School Bands in competition in separate classes.
FESTIVAL RESULTS, VOCAL DIVISION, Monday, April 19, 2010
CLASS V100
First - Joelle Bruyere
CLASS V101
First - Star Jewell Martin
Second - Carmen Hebert
CLASS V102
First - (TIE) Ali Jackson, Maggie LeMesurier
CLASS V103
First - McKenna Begin
Second - Anne Jean
CLASS V145
First - Isaac Firth
Second - Faith Pollard
CLASS V146
First - Alyssa Vandrunen
Second - Natasha Peters
CLASS V106
First - Taylor Shouldice
CLASS V168
First - Jade Green
Second - Emma Dykstra
CLASS V176
First - (TIE) Jade Green, Ali Jackson, Maggie LeMesurier
CLASS V127
First - Anne Jean
CLASS V160
First - Jade Green
CLASS V161
First - Andrew Loney
Second - Kenzie Godin
CLASS V162
First - Taylor Shouldice
Second - (TIE) Alyssa Vandrunen, Maggie Gauthier
CLASS V163
First - Jessica Whalen
Second - (TIE) Malinda Porter, Caitlin Sande, Phoebe Firth
CLASS V130
First - Kennedy Latimer
CLASS V132
First - Nelson Bragg
Second - (TIE) Jessica Whalen, Emily Turcott
CLASS V133
First - Rebecca Sokoliuk
CLASS V153
First - Isaac Firth
CLASS V118
First - Kennedy Latimer
CLASS V121
First - Rebecca Sokoliuk
Second - Katelyn Shortreed
CLASS V169
First - Anne Jean
Second - Kenzie Godin
CLASS V170
First - Larissa Desrosiers
Second - Maggie Gauthier
Jade Green led with the way with three first-place finishes.
Ali Jackson, Maggie LeMesurier, Taylor Shouldice, Isaac Firth, Kennedy Latimer, Rebecca Sokoliuk, and Anne Jean were all double winners.
Vocal performances continues today at Knox United Church.
Instrumental and band also get underway tonight at the Townsend Theatre with both the Borderland Community Orchestra and Fort Frances High School Bands in competition in separate classes.
FESTIVAL RESULTS, VOCAL DIVISION, Monday, April 19, 2010
CLASS V100
First - Joelle Bruyere
CLASS V101
First - Star Jewell Martin
Second - Carmen Hebert
CLASS V102
First - (TIE) Ali Jackson, Maggie LeMesurier
CLASS V103
First - McKenna Begin
Second - Anne Jean
CLASS V145
First - Isaac Firth
Second - Faith Pollard
CLASS V146
First - Alyssa Vandrunen
Second - Natasha Peters
CLASS V106
First - Taylor Shouldice
CLASS V168
First - Jade Green
Second - Emma Dykstra
CLASS V176
First - (TIE) Jade Green, Ali Jackson, Maggie LeMesurier
CLASS V127
First - Anne Jean
CLASS V160
First - Jade Green
CLASS V161
First - Andrew Loney
Second - Kenzie Godin
CLASS V162
First - Taylor Shouldice
Second - (TIE) Alyssa Vandrunen, Maggie Gauthier
CLASS V163
First - Jessica Whalen
Second - (TIE) Malinda Porter, Caitlin Sande, Phoebe Firth
CLASS V130
First - Kennedy Latimer
CLASS V132
First - Nelson Bragg
Second - (TIE) Jessica Whalen, Emily Turcott
CLASS V133
First - Rebecca Sokoliuk
CLASS V153
First - Isaac Firth
CLASS V118
First - Kennedy Latimer
CLASS V121
First - Rebecca Sokoliuk
Second - Katelyn Shortreed
CLASS V169
First - Anne Jean
Second - Kenzie Godin
CLASS V170
First - Larissa Desrosiers
Second - Maggie Gauthier
Monday, April 19, 2010
More Hydro Projects Planned
Xeneca Power Corporation is hoping to move ahead with eleven hydro projects in northwestern Ontario over the next couple of year.
The company was given approval for 19 projects earlier this month, but spokesperson Mark Holmes says they still have a few hurdles to cross others can proceed.
"It appears to have paid off quite well," says Holmes, "in terms of the number of projects we have going forward. As we go through these economic connection tests and the revamp of the Ontario power grid occurs over the next few years, I'm sure several more of those projects will come on stream."
The company is planning two projects in the Rainy River district.
The company was given approval for 19 projects earlier this month, but spokesperson Mark Holmes says they still have a few hurdles to cross others can proceed.
"It appears to have paid off quite well," says Holmes, "in terms of the number of projects we have going forward. As we go through these economic connection tests and the revamp of the Ontario power grid occurs over the next few years, I'm sure several more of those projects will come on stream."
The company is planning two projects in the Rainy River district.
Belluz Files Papers
A long-time public school board trustee has filed his nomination papers for re-election this fall.
Current Board Chair and Fort Frances trustee Dan Belluz has been with the board for the past twenty-five years and says its where he wants to be again.
"I just have a genuine interest in the success of our students in our district," says Belluz, "and I want to be a part of trying to provide them with the best education we can so they can be successful where ever they go."
Belluz says he hopes to be a part of a number of initiatives the board now has on the go, including the opening of the new Robert Moore School.
Current Board Chair and Fort Frances trustee Dan Belluz has been with the board for the past twenty-five years and says its where he wants to be again.
"I just have a genuine interest in the success of our students in our district," says Belluz, "and I want to be a part of trying to provide them with the best education we can so they can be successful where ever they go."
Belluz says he hopes to be a part of a number of initiatives the board now has on the go, including the opening of the new Robert Moore School.
AbitibiBowater Plan
AbitibiBowater is seeking a three-month extension to file a reorganization plan to exist bankruptcy protection.
In court documents filed in the United States last week, the company says its operational restructuring is "substantially complete," but needs a little more time to develop a plan that has the backing of creditors both in the U-S and Canada.
A hearing is scheduled for May 26 in Delaware.
Hospital Services to be Discussed
Members of the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions are meeting in Thunder Bay this week to discuss the impact of the Liberal government's plans to privatize hospital clinical services.
The move was first announced in last month's Throne speech.
President Michael Hurley says northern, rural and small community hospitals will be seriously threatened by the proposal.
About 200 representatives from 65 hospitals are expected to attend the meeting.
Victims of Crime Awareness Week
It is national victims of crime awareness week.
Peggy Loyie of the Rainy River District Victim Services Program says they'll be promoting the week by making people more aware of it and other services available to local residents.
"Like the Northwest Community Legal Clinic," says Loyie, "the Victim Witness Assistance Program. We have Community Policing in our area both within OPP and Treaty 3. We trying to promote and raise some awareness of other programs as well,"
An open house of its Scott Street office and a volunteer appreciation dinner will also be held.
Peggy Loyie of the Rainy River District Victim Services Program says they'll be promoting the week by making people more aware of it and other services available to local residents.
"Like the Northwest Community Legal Clinic," says Loyie, "the Victim Witness Assistance Program. We have Community Policing in our area both within OPP and Treaty 3. We trying to promote and raise some awareness of other programs as well,"
An open house of its Scott Street office and a volunteer appreciation dinner will also be held.
J.W. Walker Prepares for Film Festival
J.W. Walker School in Fort Frances is preparing to host another environmental film festival.
Kassidy LeDrew, a grade 6 student, says there will be four films shown next week.
"The Primary one is called 'Varmits'," says LeDrew, "which is an animated video for young children. The junior one is 'Waste Equals Food' which is all about creating products that will eventually become food for the earth. The immediate students will be watching a film called 'Flow' which is about teh fight for fresh water all over the world."
Students will also be showing some of their own produced films, but unlike last year's festival there will be no public showings.
Festival Continues
The Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts continues today - this time with vocal performances.
They take place at Knox United Church with Sheila Ardies of Winnipeg adjudicating.
Friday, piano competitions wrapped up with Krista Emond, Lucas Koomans, Jared Bethune and Jilayne Derksen picking up separate wins.
They take place at Knox United Church with Sheila Ardies of Winnipeg adjudicating.
Friday, piano competitions wrapped up with Krista Emond, Lucas Koomans, Jared Bethune and Jilayne Derksen picking up separate wins.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Meteor Viewed in Fort Frances area
A rare meteor shower that streaked across the skies of central United States Wednesday night may have also witnessed by some residents in the Fort Frances area.
Brett Briere tells B-93 what he saw that night appeared to be very close to home.
"It looked like only a couple of feet in the area cause it was so far away at first," says Briere, "A green light, light a burning green fire. Then it started flying down and I started running up to my house because it looking like it was coming straight at me."
Briere says it appeared something had landed in the Ranier area, but authorities with the Koochiching County Sheriff's Office say they had no reports of anything unusual in the area.
The National Weather Service reports a meteor disintegrated as it reached the southwest area of Wisconsin, but caused no damage.
A video taken by a police officer in Iowa can be viewed through this link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1vaRHF30xQ
Brett Briere tells B-93 what he saw that night appeared to be very close to home.
"It looked like only a couple of feet in the area cause it was so far away at first," says Briere, "A green light, light a burning green fire. Then it started flying down and I started running up to my house because it looking like it was coming straight at me."
Briere says it appeared something had landed in the Ranier area, but authorities with the Koochiching County Sheriff's Office say they had no reports of anything unusual in the area.
The National Weather Service reports a meteor disintegrated as it reached the southwest area of Wisconsin, but caused no damage.
A video taken by a police officer in Iowa can be viewed through this link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1vaRHF30xQ
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