Customer Service Awards Presented

The Rainy River Future Development Corporation recognized a number of area businesses Wednesday night for their ability go a little further for their customers.

A total of ten businesses received this year's Customer Service awards with another five identified with honourable mentions.

The winners were Boston Pizza, Cloverleaf Family Foods, Fort Frances General Supply, Kreger Sales & Service, Northern Lights Credit Union ~ Rainy River, Northwoods Gallery and Gift, Service Ontario ~ Fort Frances , Super 8 Motel, The UPS Store and Warehouse One - The Jean Store.

Honourable mentions went to Fort Frances Clinic Dispensary, Norlund Oil, The Ear Clinic, The Enhanced Hearing Centre and Vianet Internet Solutions

Council Discusses Toll Booth

Plenty of discuss about Couchiching First Nation's toll booth last night at Fort Frances town council.

OPP Detachment Commander Inspector John Kendrick fielded a number of questions over the police's response to the Highway 11 toll.

Kendrick says ensuring public safety has been their main objective.

"There are many, many police officers around doing many, many different things in order to keep what has occurred over the past several day in the status it is currently is," says Kendrick. "That's to keep the highway open and no one to date being hurt."

But some members of council question whether motorists passing the toll should be paying the dollar charged by the band.

Councillor Sharon Tibbs says some motorists feel intimidated by the band's actions.

"You can talk about it being a personal decision that you make on your own," says Tibbs. "However what is happening here is an illegal action in progress and regardless of how we're going to carry on to try to get this resolved, the bottom line is people are feeling intimidated."

Kendrick says police could not advise motorists on whether to pay, noting it has been a conscience decision by each person who passes.

Couchiching First Nation says motorists could be fined for trespassing if they don't pay the toll.

In a news release, the band says its not impeding motorists who are unwilling to pay, but Chief and Council support the application of a section of the Indian Act that states a person found guilty of trespassing on reserve land can face a fine of up to $50.00.

The band says a majority of motorists crossing the toll have been courteous, but admit they have faced several others who have refused to pay.

DSSAB Approve Change

There will be change to how municipalities provide funding to the Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board.

Despite Fort Frances concerns, the board agreed to a new funding formula at its meeting last Thursday.

Councillor Sharon Tibbs says she was able to delay implementation until next year.

"I asked them that we're already half way through our budget year and it's a considerable impact on Fort Frances' budget," says Tibbs. "and they have agreed they they will continue with option 2 for the rest of this year and in 2001 they will be sending out their billing using option 3."

Tibbs says the change will mean Fort Frances will pay end up paying more than 100-thousand dollars extra for social services programming.

Library Needs More Bricks

The Fort Frances Public Library is a few bricks short of being complete.

Community Services Manager George Bell says the masonry contractor failed to order enough stone for the exterior work, but expects the outside work to continue next week.

"The manufacturer of the stone has rerouted a truck of stone up to Fort Frances and is to be here next week," says Bell. "It will be here next Monday and hopeful the masons will be back at work to finish the job."

Bell is still hopeful the Library can open to the public next week as scheduled.

Tackle Industry Opportunities

Rainy River Future Development Corporation is exploring local interest in getting involved in the fishing tackle industry with companies in the U.S.

Client Services Manager Geoff Gillon says they have at least two U.S. firms interesting in doing businesses in Canada and are pitching the idea locally.

"From what we've been able to put together there are people who have been historically involved in the fishing industry and in distribution and representation of products," says Gillon. "There are people we hope in the community that would like to look into that and explore it."

Gillon says a meeting last night was intended as first step in matching potential businesses with the unnamed U.S. firms.

More Exploration Underway

TerraX Minerals says it's begun a drilling program on potential gold-bearing property near Atikokan.

The Vancouver-based company is exploring an area known as the Blackfly zone, about 10 kilometres northwest of the community.

The company says it's similar to the nearby Hammond Reef deposit.

Toll Latest

Provincial police they'll continue to maintain a strong presence at the toll booth on Couchiching First Nation.

The band has been asking motorists on highway 11 to pay a dollar fee since Friday.

OPP Inspector John Kendrick says its created a unique situation for police.

"We're in a unique situation where we have officers on scene and have been on scene for some time," says Kendrick. "This is a complex issue that's under review by many involved provincial authorities. The OPP are currently in a situation where they're trying to mediate a difficult situation."

Police have issued notices to those manning the toll to "discontinue their interference with traffic," but Kendrick says no arrests have been made at this time.

Still, OPP say motorists should feel safe when passing through the toll.

Constable Anne McCoy says they're making sure traffic moves smoothly through the site.

"We are their primarily to keep the peace and to protect the public," says McCoy, "but also to ensure there is an orderly flow of traffic which we do have with minimal wait times."

McCoy says police can't say if motorists should or should not be pay the toll being asked.

The discussion of the toll on Facebook is also being closely monitored.

Police say there have been more than 700 threats of violence found online against Couchiching First Nations.

Couchiching Chief Chuck McPherson says many of the threats were anonymous, although some people did use their names.

He says none of the threats originated from Couchiching.

Meantime, efforts to hold a public meeting in Fort Frances regarding Couchiching First Nations' toll.

Band leaders say they would like the opportunity to explain the reasons behind their actions to others in the district.

The band says they've been in contact with Mayor Roy Avis about a possible meeting, but so far no arrangements have been announced.

Power Outage

A storm knocked out power in parts of the Rainy River district overnight.

About 240 Hydro One customers were without power for about three hours beginning at 11 p.m.

About twenty homes are still in the dark and Hydro One expects to have power restored to them by 9:30 a.m. today.

Some Fort Frances residents were also affected by an power outage yesterday.

Parts of the north end and the downtown area lost power at around 10:30 a.m.

Crews with Fort Frances Power Corporation had power restored to all areas by about 1 p.m.

Forest Fire in District

Another forest fires in the Rainy River district over the weekend.

A lightning caused fire, about 35-kilometres northeast of Fort Frances, is still listed as active.

The Ministry of Natural Resources says it be on the watch for more lightning caused fires today as yesterday's storm moves out of the region.

Fun in the Sun Committee Meets Tonight

Members of the Fun in the Sun Committee will meet tonight to discuss this year's events.

The group says it's committed to carrying out the Canada Day parade and fireworks, but is hoping others will come forward to help stage other events planned.

Tonight's meeting is at the 52 Canadians meeting room at 6:30 p.m..

Bass Championship Entertainment Released

Four acts will highlight the entertainment at this year's Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship in July.

Entertainment director Anthony Mason says it starts with two well-known Canadian country artists.

"We have George Canyon coming to town and Julian Austin," says Mason. "We have Pushing Daisies from Winnipeg and A is A coming back."

Advance tickets are expected to go on sale this Friday costing 50-dollars which is good for both the Friday and Saturday night performances."

Toll Booth Update

Couchiching First Nation's protest over its grievances with the federal and provincial governments is to continue today.

Band members are expected to continue a traffic slowdown near the site of a toll that's to be in place tomorrow at noon.

They began handing out leaflets yesterday.

Chief Chuck McPherson says an offer received from the province was rejected at a meeting last night.

Forest Tenure Meetings Underway

The Ontario Forest Industry Association remains critical of the Province's changes to the forest tenure system.

Public meetings started this week, and manager of Forest Policy Scott Jackson says the changes will undermine the government's recent good work.

"We think the government has completely overshot the mark here," says Jackson. "We're concerned that the proposal they're putting in place will lead to less fibre being available to the sector as a whole which is going to reduce investment and employment opportunities over the short, mid and long-term."

Jackson says an open auction for wood supply will impact all forestry businesses from big to small.

Not All Environmentalists Happy

At least one environmental group remains unhappy with recent efforts to protect the Boreal forest.

Earthroots thinks more needs to be done even though 21 forest companies have agreed to stop logging in 29-million hectares of the forest.

Spokesperson David Stone says it's not time to back down.

"We're still very concerned that clear cut logging is continuing," says Stone. "Most of Ontario forests are being logged at a rate that's very unsustainable and doesn't leave enough to protect the clean water and clean air that we depend on."

AbitibiBowater says the deal won't have an impact on its ability to access fibre for the Fort Frances mill.

Flights Increased

There will be more flights out of International Falls this summer.

An $1.3 million agreement between Mesaba Airlines and the U.S. Department of Transportation will see the Delta-owned airline flying 14 flights per week in and out of Falls International Airport beginning in June.

U.S. Senator Al Franken, who helped secure the grant, says the money provides stability for the airport and bolsters the region’s commerce, economic development, and tourism.

Appreciation Week Plans

The planning continues for physician appreciation week in Fort Frances.

It happens during the week of May 31.

Chair of the Physician Recruitment and Retention Committee Andrew Hallikas says tickets for a community gathering on June 3 are now available.

"We're going to have a mix and mingle at 6 p.m. with dinner starting at 6:30 p.m.," says Halikas. "This is a community event. We would really like people and families to come out and celebrate their family physician and with their family physician."

Tickets are available at Pharmasave or Shoppers Drug Mart or by calling the Riverside Foundation for Health Care office.

Rafferty Seeks Meeting with Minister over Toll

Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty is making another plea to the federal Indian Affairs Minister to meet with Couchiching First Nations in hopes of avoiding a planned toll booth on Highway 11.

Band members reportedly started construction of the toll yesterday and will start collecting from motorists Friday.

Rafferty says he's made four requests in the past two weeks asking Chuck Strahl to meet with the band over its concerns.

He fells there still time to find some resolution, but the Minister must "step up to the plate" and set up a meeting.

Meantime, Couchiching First Nations has announced the fees it will charge at its toll.

Band members say they'll collect one dollar from every vehicle that passes in or out of the reserve.

Commercial vehicles will be required to pay 10-dollars each way.

The band is also making monthly passess available costing passenger vehicles 25-dollars and commercial vehicles $100.00

Portage Avenue Re-opening Delayed

A need for additional work is delaying the re-opening of the Portage Avenue underpass by more than a week.

Fort Frances town officials says work crews need to install a storm sewer manhole at the intersection of Portage and 3rd Street.

Officials says records had indicated the presence of the manhole, but was found to be missing when crews started digging up the road this past week.

Work on the two intersections blocking the underpass is now expected to be completed by May 29.

Logging Deal

AbitibiBowater says a deal to halt logging in the boreal forest should have little impact to mill operations in Fort Frances.

The agreement between the forest industry and environmental groups was announced yesterday.

Pulp and paper companies have promised to stop cutting trees on 29-million hectares of forest while the environmentalists say they will abandon their ''do-not-buy'' campaigns.

Other conservation initiatives in the agreement include a promise to protect herds of endangered caribou.

But AbitibiBowater vice-president Roger Barber says it should not hurt the Fort Frances mill's ability to access fibre.

"Fort Frances is a bit unique," says Barber, "in that the forest area right around Fort Frances is outside the boreal and is outside of this agreement."

Barber says it will mean some changes in forestry practices elsewhere, but feels the agreement will aid in developing those plans.

Endowment Fund Established

(Sandra and Eric "Doc" Johnson - photo courtesy Riverside Foundation for Health Care)

Riverside Foundation for Health Care is receiving a sizable contribution from a long-time Fort Frances couple.

Director Teresa Hazel says Eric "Doc" Johnson and his wife Sandra established an endowment fund for use at La Verendrye Hospital.

"They've always been long time supporters of the Foundation," says Hazel, "and they just wanted to make a more meaningful and lasting gift to the hospital because they've been so pleased with the services and have used the services."

Endowment funds set aside the principal amount that is given and Riverside only uses the interest generated to help purchase medical equipment, support programs and services and assist with facility upgrades.

It's the third such fund for local health care since the Foundation was formed 13 years ago.

Mobile Command Unit in Service

Fort Frances Fire and Rescue Service showed off its new mobile command unit to the public yesterday.

Fire Chief Gerry Armstrong says it will serve as a base for operations during any type of emergency.

"We'll be able to set up at a scene and have a kind of office if you will," says Armstrong. "It will duplicate as a site coordination area. Obviously it's important for rehabilitation of people if you have them on scene for a long period of time."

The trailer unit replaces an older one that had been in use since 1975 and was purchase in part with funding from the federal government.

Writer Wins Award

A Fort Frances writer has won a literacy award from the Northwestern Ontario Writer's Workshop.

Judy Johanson story entitled "Picker's Kid" was named the region's top children's story at a ceremony held over the weekend.

"I've had this story in mind for a number of years," says Johanson. "The subject matter is bullying at an elementary school age. (It's based on) Just various stories I've heard about bullying and experiences in my own childhood, and it really compelled me to write this."

It's Johanson's first award from the Writer's Workshop.

Fort Budget Finalized

Fort Frances town council has finalized its 2010 budget.

It calls for an average of a 3 per cent increase in the tax levy charged to residential ratepayers.

But Treasurer Laurie Witherspoon says the tax rate used to calculate what they actually pay is less than half that.

"In dollars and cents, if someone paid $1,872.50 last year for an assessment of $100,000, in 2010 they would see $1,863.77," says Witherspoon. "So that's an increase of $8.73."

Witherspoon says commercial and industrial ratepayers will see their tax rates drop due to decreases in both assessment and the education portion of their bills.

Councillors accepted the budget by a 6-1 vote - councillor Ken Perry the lone objector.

Mayor Roy Avis says given what the town is facing financially, he's pleased, as it sets aside money for potential wage increases for unionized staff.

"I was happy with our final decision on making sure that we had enough money built in there," say Avis, "that if we have a couple of unknowns that are quite costly, if that comes to fruition, then we have money put aside to look after that."

The budget, however, does not take into account a possible increase in the town's cost to the Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board, which has yet to be determined.

Toll Details Released Tomorow

More details on Couchiching First Nations plans for a toll booth on Highway 11 are expected to be revealed tomorrow.

Band council meets tonight to discuss the toll which is scheduled to go in effect this Friday at noon.

The band has said its setting up the toll over a number of unresolved issues involving both the federal and provincial government.

Among things yet announced are the cost charged to motorists and how long it will be in effect.

Northern Hospitals Report Released

The Ontario Health Coalition has released a report on northern and rural hospitals.

Thunder Bay Health Coalition Co-Chair Barb Maki says they want to ensure services are kept intact.

"We want to ensure that services are going to be available at our hospitals, still," says Maki. "That would include the hospital emergency department, blood, x-ray, ultra-sound, in-patient services for acute and complex continuing care beds, palliative care and rehabilitation."

Maki says the Northwest Local Health Integration Network has been good at consulting patients about potential service changes, and doesn't foresee any immediate problems.

Fire Hazard Creeps Up

The forest fire hazard is on the rise in northwestern Ontario.

Ministry of Natural Resources Fire Information Officer Mitch Miller says the warmer weather is again leading to an increase in forest fire activity.

"We're looking at the forecast right now and we don't see any significant precipitation in the next two weeks," says Miller. "The humidity is very low and it's very warm. It's going to dry out increasingly over the next two weeks so we could start to see some activity here with forest fires particularly if people aren't careful with their fires."

Five new fires were reported over the weekend, none in the Rainy River district.

Park Site Closed

Voyageur's National Park is temporarily restricting public access to parts of the park because of bald eagles.

A total of 69 bald eagle nests were found during a survey in April.

As a result, the park is closing some land and water areas around the sites during the nesting period.

It's also asking boaters not travel or stop within 200 meters of the nesting sites during the closure period.

Volunteer Awards Presented Tonight

Volunteers from the Rainy River district will be honoured this evening at the Townshend Theatre.

Service awards will be presented to a number of volunteers recognizing years of contribution.

Four residents will be receive awards for forty-or-more years of continual volunteer service.

The ceremony begins at 7 p.m. with a reception to follow.

Fun in the Sun Committee Needs Help

The group organizing Canada Day and Fun in the Sun activities which received a boast in funding from the town of Fort Frances last week - is now looking for more manpower.

Member Dawn Booth says the committee only has a handful of members and need individuals or groups to take over some of the events.

"Our committee simply can't do it anymore," says Booth. "We just don't have the manpower to organize events and activities so we need the help of the community."

Booth says unless more help is forth coming, the only events to be held will be the parade and the July 1st fireworks.

The committee will hold its next meeting May 25 and Booth is hoping those interested will attend.

Point-of-Exemption Supported by Province

The provincial government is supporting First Nations demands for a point-of-sale exemption when the Harmonized Sales Tax comes into effect this July.

But Aboriginal Affairs Minister Chris Bentley says it's the federal government that must honour the exemption.

"The first step is that we actually need them just to sit at the table," says Bentley. "They haven't seem to be willing to do that which is quite unfortunate. This is an important issue so we'd like them to come to the table."

Bentley still feels there is time to have the tax exemption that's now in place continue once HST is fully implemented.

NDP Leader Jack Layton says Ottawa and the provinces are needlessly provoking potential disruptive action by First Nations over the harmonized sales tax.

Aboriginal groups have threatened to fight the HST through any means possible unless they're allowed to retain the exemption on purchases made outside reserves.

Layton says he'll try to convince Prime Minister Harper he can avoid conflict if he acts now.

'Respect' Campaign Gains Attention

A campaign established four years ago to help bring "respect" back into the minds of Confederation College students is getting some attention elsewhere in North America.

The campaign aims to reinforce the value of diversity within college campuses.

Associate director Jim Lees says its now reaching well outside northwestern Ontario.

"We've spoken to high schools," says Lees. "We've spoken to parks and recreation in Thunder Bay and we've spoken to about a dozen colleges across Ontario. I also got a call from a college in California that's interested in launching some kind of respect campaign as well."

A similar campaign was adopted by Fort Frances High School using the College initiative as its model.

Local Students at Canada Science Fair

(Photo Courtesy Rainy River District School Board)

Two local students will be featured at this year's Canada Wide Science Fair that begins today in Peterborough.


Chelsey Skirten and Hailey Beaudry earned the trip after finished one-two at this year's Regional Science Fair.

The Canadian event attracts more than five-hundred students across the country.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors Bill

Conservative MPP Ernie Hardeman reintroduces his private member's bill today to make carbon monoxide detectors mandatory in homes.

The Oxford member's bill failed a third reading after the legislature was prorogued earlier this spring.

Currently, detectors are only mandatory in new homes.

Foster Care Report Being Released

A report says Ontario should press Ottawa to give children in foster care the same educational support as children who live with their families.

The report being released today says it would cost the federal government about $8-million a year to set up educational savings accounts for the 18-thousand Ontario children in state care.

Memorandum of Understanding Signed

(Left: Rainy River Resources President Raymond Threlkeld and Rainy River First Nations Chief Jim Leonard (right) sign Memorandum of Understanding)

There is a new memorandum of understanding in place between mining company Rainy River Resources and seven area First Nations.


It was signed yesterday afternoon at the company's gold properties, 20 kilometres north of Barwick.


Company president Raymond Threlkeld says it's important to work with the Native communities as they move forward on the development of possible mines.



"They're one of the largest stakeholders around here," says Threlkeld, "and for us to move forward we have to be partners."



Rainy River First Nations Chief Jim Leonard says its an important document to have.



"It means we're able to participate in this mining activity from a sense of providing some employment to our community," says Leonard. "And also gaining a knowledge of the mining industry and exploration work."



Leonard says it also provides for area First Nations to have input and dialogue into the operations.



The document outlines such things as consultation, employment opportunities and ways to resolve disputes.

Library Begins Move

It's moving day at the Fort Frances Public Library.

Staff , along with several volunteers, will be taking boxes of books to the new facility.

Chief Librarian Margaret Sedgewick says the current library will still be open until Sunday for people to access materials.

"We're allowing the double number of DVDs people can take out," says Sedgewick. "As many books as they want just to make sure they are well stocked."

The current library will close for good on Monday with the new facility expected to open June 1.

Landmarks Re-open

Two Fort Frances landmarks re-open to the public today for the first time in more than a decade.

Fort Frances Museum curator Pam Cain says there will be a user pay system in place for people to climb the tower or board the Hallet.

"People will be getting a tag that has an access code," says Cain. "The tower and Hallet have a punch-code system for people to access. They've be getting a code that's good for the day when they purchase their admission. That admission will be good for the Tower, Hallet and Museum.

Admission is $3.50 for adults and $2.50 for children.

There is also a special rate for families and purchases are made at the Sorting Gap Marina or Museum.

An official opening of the two landmarks will be held June 4.

Accident Shuts down Trans Canada

OPP say a section of the Trans Canada Highway near Kenora may not re-open until noon today.

Two transports collided at the intersection of Highway 17-A and the Minaki Highway around 2 a.m. today.

Injuries were minor, but the clean-up of a chemical spill is keeping the highway closed.

Ontario Man given Probation

An Ontario man who stood by while his wife committed suicide in a Thunder Bay hotel room has been sentenced to one year of probation.

Peter Fonteece of Waterloo, pleaded guilty in February to criminal negligence causing death.

His wife Yanisa took as many as 40 sleeping pills while Fonteece stood by silently, at her request.

Work Sites Need to be Safer

A group that represents construction workers is calling for action to make Ontario work sites safer.

The call from the Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario follows an inspection blitz by government inspectors.

The inspectors found fall hazards at 63 per cent of the more than 39-hundred construction sites they visited across the province.

Minnesota Fishing Opener Festivities

Festivities get under today at Lake Kabetogema, south of International Falls, for this year's Minnesota Governor's Fishing Opener.

The fishing doesn't begin until the season opens tomorrow, but various community events and a picnic are set for today.

Both Gov. Tim Pawlenty and Lt. Gov. Carol Molnau are scheduled to attend, but the Governor's schedule may be in flux due to the ongoing budget talks at the Capital.

Charity Run Planned

Local runners will pounding the pavement to help local children.

Jackie Lampi-Hughes of Energy Fitness says it happens tomorrow.

"We have a 5-K in May event," says Lampi-Hughes. "All of the money will go to the Jump Start program which helps local kids in financial need go into sporting events."

Tomorrow's run costs $20.00 and starts at the Sorting Gap Marina beginning at 9 a.m.

A one-K run for the youngsters takes place at 8:30 a.m.

Mining Agreement to be Signed

Rainy River Resources and seven area First Nations represented by the Fort Frances Chiefs Secretariat will gather later today to formally sign a Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to the mining company's activities north of Barwick.

The agreement sets out processes for ongoing consultation and employment and other opportunities for First Nations people.

The signing is to take place at the companies main site in Black Hawk this afternoon.

Water Study Continues

(Area Biologist Evan Armstrong checks a temperature monitoring instrument - MNR Photo)

A long term study looking at water temperatures in lakes in northwestern Ontario is entering its second year.


Mark Sobchuck of the Ministry of Natural Resources says they want to find out what impact global warming is having on fish populations.



"We're interested in the impacts of a changing climate on how the thermocline in the various lakes sets up," says Sobchuck, "how its established, the depth its established and the length of times its maintained during the year."



Monitoring devices have been placed in 22 lakes across the region.

Bass Championship Nears

Planning continues for this year's Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.

Both rinks at the Memorial Sports Centre will be used and Chair Tom Fry says their still working on logistics.

"We're getting our head around it," says Fry. "We won't really know until we actually do it, but we're trying to anticipate all of the issues that could come up."

Fry says the 52 Canadians rink to be used for the weigh-ins and the Ice for Kids site devoted to entertainment.

Fort Students in Ottawa

(From left to right: Steve Mitchell, Max Calder, Ryne Strachan - Business Development Bank of Canada photo)

A group of Fort Frances High School students will know later today how well they were able to push their business-case for a new funeral home with an aboriginal focus.

They're among 200 aboriginal students involved in a business-planning competition sponsored by the Business Development Bank of Canada in Ottawa.

Steven Mitchell says it's been positive experience.

"The Ottawa University has just been great," says Mitchell. "We presented our board at one of the halls and today we're presenting our power point presentation with all of our financials in one of the university classrooms."

Mitchell is joined by Ryan Strachan, Max Calder and teacher Gary Medicine at the event.

Study of High Schools Released

High schools in the Kenora-Rainy River district are being ranked well below many of their counterparts in southern Ontario in the Fraser Institutes's latest study.

The Conservative Think-Tank ranks schools based on the results of annual provincial testing.

Spokesman Michael Thompson says its fair comparison.

"Each school and each school body is unique and has it's own demands and characteristics," says Thompson, "but you can certainly can learn from what your neighbours are doing. You certainly want to know what they are doing well to get your marks."

Rainy River High School was highest among district schools at 329 out of 722, and one of two that were higher than the provincial average.

Education Director for the Rainy River District School Board Heather Campbell says while the provincial test scores is a measure of success, it's not the sole measure.

She says there are many other programs in place used to help improve student success which the Fraser Institute does not take into account in its report.

Smart Meters Ready for Use

Fort Frances Power Corporation is expecting full implementation of the so-called Smart Meters by the end of next month.

CEO Jorge Ruppenstein says the last few homes will soon be installed with the new hydro meters which will no longer require a person to visit the home to read.

"Under our current model we go around once a month to read the meter," says Ruppenstein. "With the Smart Meters, they can be remotely read."

Ruppenstein says it will also provide the utility with stats on hydro usage on an hourly basis.

The privacy commissioner is raising concerns about the province's smart grid plan.

Anne Cavoukian fears it could reveal "intimate details'' about the lives of hydro customers.

Cavoukian says information about when people cook, take showers -- even whether a home has an alarm system -- could be determined by the data collected.

Burn Ban Remains

Cool, moist weather is allowing the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to lift burning restrictions in some parts of the state.

The restrictions will remain in effect only in the extreme northeast, including Koochiching County, where the cold and the lack of moisture have delayed new vegetation.

More Co-Op Businesses Needed

A high interest in the co-operative education program at Fort Frances High School is forcing the school to seek out more businesses partners.

Program supervisor Nancy Gillon says more than one-hundred students have applied for co-op next fall, and that means a need for as many supporting businesses.

"Every year I try to get at least one or two new placements into my list," says Gillon. "Fort Frances and the district have been excellent in helping me out in taking students, but if you want to increase the program you need more placements."

Gillon says the greatest need is for companies in the trades or those that can offer a unique work-place experience for students uncertain of their career paths.

Hudson Bay Archives Available

Northwestern Ontario residents are being given the opportunity to get a glimpse into history of the one of the oldest companies in the world.

Winnipeg is home to the archives of the Hudson's Bay Company, and archivist James Gordon is travelling the region to explain how they can be accessed.

"We have records that have been micro-filmed," says Gordon. "We have over 4,600 reels and we'll send these out free of charge to any library, archives or research centre that requests them."

Gordon says the material dates back to the company's incorporation in 1670.

Old School Coming Down

The owners of the former Fort Frances High School say they have plans to knock the old school down this year.

Speaking to Fort Frances council last night, Charlie Morken says its demolition may help them attract interest in the property.

"Our intent would be that if we demolish that building what would happen is that we would get some activity and it would be the first step in moving with the old tech wing that is along second street," says Morken.

Morken says demolition could happen within the next two months.

Curling Club Seeks Payment Extension

Fort Frances town council is looking at giving the Fort Frances Curling Club some extra time to pay the first instalment of an outstanding tax bill.

The club was to pay the first $6,1000 of the $30-thousand bill in July, but wants to delay payment for at least two months.

Councillor Rick Wiedenhoeft says it would help the club financially.

"In July they don't really have cash flow," says Wiedenhoeft. "They do have a cash flow problem if the payment is made in July where they wouldn't have a cash flow problem if the payment is made in July.

But Councillor Ken Perry feels the club had plenty of time to prepare.

"They've had since 2007 since this agreement was struck to start putting this money aside," says Perry. "I don't know how two months is going to help them to that great extent."

The issue is going back to the committee level for further discussion.

Church Water Rates to Decrease

Places of worship in Fort Frances will get a break on their sewer and water rates.

Effective this September, churches will be charged the same flat rate as residential customers.

The change is a 29.3 per cent reduction from the rate they now pay.

More Money for Fireworks

The group organizing Canada Day festivities in Fort Frances will get more money from the town.

Council agreed last night to provide up to an additional $5,000 more in one-time funding, over the $5,000 agreed to last month.

It's also asking Rainy River Future Development Corporation to see if the group could be eligible for any supplemental funding.

Mill Workers Accept Deal

A new deal for workers at AbitibiBowater.

Members of the Communication, Energy and Paperworkers union voted 63-point-5 per cent in favour of the new five year deal.

It includes cost reductions for the company, but protects pensions for retirees and workers.

The agreement also includes a 10 per cent wage rollback with increases to resume in 2012 and 2013.

President Dave Coles calls its a painful adjustment with a company under bankruptcy protection and that acceptance of the deal is still conditional upon approval from both the Quebec and Ontario governments.

Holocaust Survivor Visits Fort Frances

A holocaust survivor is using her experiences to education others about the consequences of hate and racism.

Doctor Eva Olsson spoke to students at Fort Frances High School yesterday and says young people need to speak up against violent acts in their communities.

"Go to your teacher. Go to your principal, your parents, but you must not remain silent," says Olsson, "because the bully gets away with it. That's what happened in Europe. The bullies got away with it and there were so many bystanders and the rest of the world stood silent."

Olsson says without immediate action to combat hatred and racism, she fears history could end up repeating itself.

Gold Exploration Resumes

There's going to be plenty of exploration in the Rainy River district this summer.

Vancouver-based Bayfield Ventures says its planning a minimum 20-thousand meter diamond drilling program on its gold properties, north of Barwick.

Work is to start later this month.

Contact North Registrations Up

Contact North says demand for its services is growing across northern Ontario.

The Distance Education and Training Network is reporting a 61 per cent increase in course registrations during this past winter compared with 2009.

It follows a 35 per cent increase seen last fall.

Positions Available to Students

The Ministry of Natural Resources is putting out the call to students interested in being a part of its Stewardship Ranger program.

Four positions are available to those 17 or older in the Fort Frances area.

Applications must be submitted by May 28.

Low Water Faced in Season Opener

The opening of fishing in Minnesota is this weekend, but anglers may find low water levels at some lakes this season.

The Department of Natural Resources says some lakes in central, eastern and northeastern Minnesota are down a foot or two.

Officials say some concrete ramps may not be long enough when boats are launched on lakes with low water.

Vehicles Vandalized

A number of vehicles in the east end of Fort Frances were the target of vandals over the weekend.

Two vehicles parked in the 1000-block of Williams Avenue were broken into and fires set inside late Friday night.

A number of other vehicles parked around one-thousand and 11-hundred blocks of Scott Street and Second Street East had their side mirrors smashed and paint scratched.

A trolling motor was also damaged.

One killed in Atikokan House Fire

A house fire in Atikokan has claimed the live of a woman in that community.

31-year-old Amy Rachel Lee was inside a home on MacKenzie Avenue East that caught fire Saturday morning at around 7:30 a.m.

An unidentified man was taken to Atikokan hospital and later transported to Winnipeg in serious condition.

Atikokan Fire Department was on scene for nearly five hours before fire fighters were able to contain the blaze.

The Ontario Fire Marshall's office and OPP are investigating it's cause.

Town Council Tonight

Future plans for the former Fort Frances High School building are expected to be discussed at tonight's meeting of Fort Frances council.

Owners of the property are to discuss activities at the former school property.

Also tonight, a request for more money for this year's Canada Day activities comes back to the table.

Council agreed to provide $5-thousand, but asked its economic development advisory committee to review the organizing committee's request for more.

The public portion of tonight's meeting begins at about 6:40 p.m.

Portage Avenue Blocked

Motorists travelling to the north end of Fort Frances this afternoon will be forced to use McIrvine Road.

Access through the Portage Avenue underpass will be closed for the next ten day as crews begin the next phase of work along other parts of the roadway.

The closure begins at noon.

Ontario's Responds to Possible Toll

The Ontario government is promoting a need for continued dialogue with Couchiching First Nations.

In an interview with B-93, Aboriginal Affairs Minister Chris Bentley says the province is open to ongoing talks instead of seeing the band move ahead with a planned toll booth to back demands.

"Our position is always that talking and discussions and negotiation is the way to go," says Bentley. "That's what ultimately gets things done."

The federal government has also indicated a willingness to talk, but there's no indication that any meetings have actually been set up.

Man's Death Investigated

The Special Investigations Unit is investigating a fatal shooting at a First Nations community near Sioux Lookout.

OPP say a 39-year-old man was injured at Whitefish Bay during a confrontation with police yesterday.

He later died in hospital.

Police say they're also investigating a separate death from the same house.

No names are being released at this time.

Women's Health Symposium Return a Success

Diversity the theme at the Women's Health Symposium Saturday at the Fort France High School.

The event attracted women of all ages, and committee member Peggy Loyie says they were pleased with the turnout after the event's year absence.

"We were a little worried about that," says Loyie, "in getting people back together. I think we brought together a really awesome group of presenters that express our theme and as well as the exhibitors."

Guest speakers included local film producer Andrew George, Laura Horton of Seven Generations Education Institute and Jim Lees of Confederation College

'What Hook You Hear' Underway

(Left: Fort Frances Pam Cain 'hooking' parts of the first panel for the What Hooks You Here project)

Work has started on the What Hooks You Here project.


It's a large rug that focuses on the outdoor activities people in the Rainy River district enjoy year round.


Fort Frances Museum Curator Pam Cain says it's reflective of input from the public.



"We had great participation," says Cain. "The design incorporates lots of what school children and local artists have given us. We can still change things. If there's something that people think we don't have in it, there's still opportunity to change it once they see the design."

Cain says they hope to have the project completed by next February.

3-D TV in Rainy River District

3-D TV has arrived in the Rainy River district.

The newest in television viewing can now be found at Sight and Sound in Fort Frances and salesman Bryan Barnes its bring a whole new perspective.

"It's not like your regular t.v. viewing," says Barnes. "You put the glasses on and you feel like your right in the television set. It's unreal."

The system will set you back a fair coin with the sets now at about $39-hundred dollars, plus a few hundred more for the glasses and 3-D blue ray player.

Housing Wait-Lists Long

Some low-income people in the Rainy River district are waiting up to two years for housing.

That according a report by the Ontario Non-Profit Housing Association.

Executive Director Sharad Kerur says longer wait times and a rise in the number of people seeking social housing continues to be a trend right across the province.

"We don't have enough affordable housing supply being built in Ontario," says Kerur. "There's also an affordability issue with people not being able to afford the kind of shelter they already have."

According to the Association, the Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board has 37 people on wait lists for housing, compared with 24 last year.

Kerur says the numbers could be much highers with some people living with family and not registering on housing lists or those who don't have immediate access to local housing centers.

Speech Pathologists Funding

The McGuinty government is being accused of quietly cutting funding for speech pathologists in northwestern Ontario.

Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says its led to young children with delays and handicaps in their speech waiting up to 18 months to get services.

"We know that children with delays in their speech and language development who don't receive appropriate professional help will then face subsequent serious behavioural, social and educational challenges," says Hampton.

Children's Services Minister Laurel Broten says her ministry will be soon be conducting a review on how to improve access to services.

Hampton says want is needed is funding to be restore to adequate levels.

Pharmacists Protest Today

The lawn in front of the Ontario legislature will be a sea of white lab coats today as pharmacists hold a protest rally.

They're waging a pitched campaign against the Ontario government's plan to put an end to so-called professional allowances.

The Ontario Community Pharmacies coalition will also present petitions to the McGuinty government signed by thousands of people who want the government to stop the reforms.

First Nations Working Group Plan

Provincial and territorial ministers of aboriginal affairs are moving forward on a plan to deal with some of the challenges facing first nations people.

Ontario's Aboriginal Affairs Minister Chris Bentley says they hope to close the graduation and income gap.

"We're going to add to our areas of general agreement over the next 90 days with some concrete steps that can be taken immediately to improve lives," says Bentley. "We're going to present our advice to the Premiers at the beginning of August and they can decide what they want to do with it."

The group is also calling for a First Ministers meeting on Aboriginal Issues.

Farmers' Market Opens Tomorrow

It's another season for the Clover Valley Farmers Market in Fort Frances.

This year, along with local producers, board member Deb Cornell says they're hoping to attract some local musicians to play at the market.

"We're always happy to have buskers," says Cornell. "It's a way for musicians to make a little bit of money and entertain visitors to the market."

The market opens tomorrow with local maple syrup, free rhubarb plants and fresh flowers for Mother's Day available.

Relay For Life Plans Progresssing

There's a lot of interest in this year's Relay for Life event in Fort Frances.

Committee member John Homer says 24 teams have registered so far and is hoping for a few more.

"We only had 16 last year," says Homer, "so we're way a head of the game. We're shooting for thirty so if there is anyone who wants to put in a team to call Duane or myself at Gillon's."

The 12-hour fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society is scheduled for June 25 at Pither's Point Park.

INAC Responds to Planned Toll

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.