Osiko Ends Association with Sparton

Osisko Mining has decided against acquiring more property around its Hammond Reef Gold Project north of Atikokan.

The company had done some exploratory work on West Hammond and Clement Lake claims owned by Sparton Resources.

Sparton says it will evaluate the data and do follow up work of its own.

Haze Rules Revisited

A citizens board of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is taking another crack at approving rules meant to cut the haze that sometimes clouds the views at Voyageurs National Park and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

The haze comes mostly from the state’s coal-fired power plants and taconite plants on the Iron Range.

The board was due to vote on the new rules last month, but held off because of concerns raised by Cliff Natural Resources.

Fee Increase Passes Senate

The Minnesota Senate has voted to raise fees for hunting and fishing licenses.

The bill now goes back to the House, which passed it earlier without the fee increases.

Under the bill, a one-year fishing license for an adult resident would go from 17 to 22-dollars.

A deer hunting license for residents would be bumped from 26 to 30-dollars.

Fees were last raised in 2001.

Festival Winners - Monday

Plenty of triple winners in the first day of vocals at the Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts yesterday.

Callahan Wiedenhoeft, Phoebe Ann Firth each won in three solo competitions.

Emma Dykstra and Kennedy Latimer won a pair of solo events with there third in duet competition.

The festival continues today.

Here is a list of all winners from Monday.


CLASS V103 Secular Solo, Examination Courses, Grade 3
1. Callahan Wiedenhoeft - Coconut Man by Aubrey Beswick
2. Carmen Hebert - Spring is Singing in the Garden by W.H. Anderson

CLASS V104 Secular Solo, Examination Courses, Grade 4
1. Emma Dykstra - Watermelon Seller by Aubrey Beswick

CLASS V105 Secular Solo, Examination Courses, Grade 5
1. McKenna Begin - Lazy Summer by W. Herbert Belyea

CLASS V106 Secular Solo, Examination Courses, Grade 6
1. Alyssa VanDrunen - Spring Sorrow by John Ireland

CLASS V107 Secular Solo, Examination Courses, Grade 7
1. Maggie Gauthier - Come and Trip It by G. F. Handel

CLASS V108 Secular Solo, Examination Courses, Grade 8
1. Phoebe Ann Firth - Le Charme by E. Chausson
2. Taylor Shouldice - Alma Del Core by Antonio Caldara

CLASS V145 Secular Solo, 11 and 12 years
1. Jillian Armstrong - To My First Love by Hermann Löhr
2(tie). Kaitlynn Lougheed - Spring is Singing in the Garden by W. H. Anderson
2(tie). Emily Loney - If by Mark Patterson

CLASS V146 Secular Solo, 13 and 14 years
1. Andrew Loney - If You’ve Only got a Moustache by Stephen C. Foster

CLASS V117 Sacred Solo, Examination Courses, Grade 5
1. McKenna Begin - Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child, African-American Spiritual

CLASS V206 Vocal Duet, 9 to 12 years
1. Emma Dykstra and Jillian Armstrong -Kindred Spirits by Norman Campbell from ANNE OF GREEN GABLES
2 Callahan Wiedenhoeft and Carmen Herbert - Kindred Spirits by Norman Campbell from ANNE OF GREEN GABLES

CLASS V208 Vocal Duet, 16 to 18 years
1 Taylor Shouldice and Kennedy Latimer - What is this Feeling from WICKED
2. Ericka Tymkin and David Loney - As Long as You’re Mine from WICKED

CLASS V138F/V138M Solo Test Pieces, Grade 8
1. Kennedy Latimer - Tell Me Lovely Shepherd by William Boyce
2(tie). Ericka Tymkin - Tell Me Lovely Shepherd by William Boyce
2(tie). David Loney - Where’er You Walk by G. F. Handel

CLASS V132 Traditional Folk Song, Examination Courses, Grade 8
1. Phoebe Ann Firth - Over the Mountains arranged by Roger Quilter
2(tie). Taylor Shouldice - Over the Mountains arranged by Roger Quilter
2(tie). David Loney - Down by the Sally Gardens arranged by H. Hughes

CLASS V127 Traditional Folk Song, Examination Courses, Grade 3
1. Callahan Wiedenhoeft - Suo-Gân Lullaby arranged by Alec Rowley
2. Star Martin - Mairi’s Wedding arranged by Hugh S. Robertson

CLASS V162 Traditional Folk Song, 13 and 14 years
1. Faith Pollard - To the Sky arranged by Carl Strommen

CLASS V163 Traditional Folk Song, 15 and 16 years
1. Maggie Gauthier - The Gartan Mother’s Lullaby arranged by H. Hughes

CLASS V164 Traditional Folk Song, 17 and 18 years
1. Phoebe Ann Firth - Must I Go Bound arranged by H. Hughes
2. Malinda Porter - Shenandoah arranged by Jay Althouse

CLASS V125 Traditional Folk Song, Examination Courses, Grade 1
1. Joelle Bruyere - Skye Boat Song arranged by M. Lawson

CLASS V188 Quick Study, Solo, Grade 8
1. Kennedy Latimer


CLASS V210 Vocal Duet, Open
1. Greta Fedoruk and Monika Ruppenstein - Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious from MARY POPPINS

CLASS V176 Musical Theatre, Solo, 9 and 10 years
1. Callahan Wiedenhoeft - On the Good Ship Lollipop from BRIGHT EYES
2. Star Jewel Martin - I Enjoy Being a Girl from THE FLOWER DRUM SONG

CLASS V173 Contemporary Solo, 19 years and over
1. Ken Brown - Let It Be Me by Ray Lamontagne

CLASS V168 Contemporary Solo, 9 and 10 years
1. Carmen Herbert - True Colours from GLEE Steinberg and Kelly

2. Star Jewel Martin - Price Tag by C. Kelly, B. Simmons, L. Gottwald, J. Cornish

CLASS V169 Contemporary Solo, 11 and 12 years
1. Emma Dykstra - Mighty to Save by Reuben Morgan and Ben
2. Kaitlynn Lougheed - When I Look at You by John Shanks and Hillary Lindsey

Retired Mill Workers Optimistic

A local group is calling its meeting with Resolute Forest Products over their pensions concerns productive.

The group - Seniors-Retirees Against Pension and Elder Abuse - sat down with company executives last week.

Chair Allan Bedard says they've asked the company for another meeting that includes all of the local mills retirees.

Bedard says they've also asked to have a retiree from the Fort Frances mill to be part of the company's pension committee.

Seniors Input Sought Soon

Area seniors will soon be asked for their input.

The local Assisted Living Group has issued a brief release indicating the opportunity to give input will be announced soon.

The group has been promoting the need for a facility in Fort Frances that combines housing, support services and health care.

Dog Park Proposed

The town of Fort Frances is considering establishing a park where dog owners can let their animals run off leash.

An administrative report, coming to council at their meeting tonight, indicates that the Kiwanis Club has expressed interest in partnering with the town on the project.

The first step, if improved, would see the forming of a steering committee to help identify sites, and work on the design of the park.

Question of the Week

Do you think an off-leash dog park in Fort Frances would be a good thing for the community?

Let us know on our website 931 the border.ca.

In response to last week's poll question, 73 per cent of respondents support the idea of a market square being developed on the current site of the Rainy Lake Hotel.

MNR Call Centre in Tennessee

The province is being accused of using a call centre in Tennessee to field inquires for the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell says the revelation comes as the Liberal government prepares to consolidate MNR offices.

No Minister responded directly to the allegation when questioned about it in the Legislature.

New Canada Day Committee Seeks Funds

The group that has taken on some of the planning of this year's Canada Day activities in Fort Frances is now seeking some financial help from the town.

The "It's Eh Celebration " committee is planning to hold a singing competition and nightly entertainment.

The committee doesn't ask for any particular dollar amount, but in a letter to council it does note that it's budgeting $4,200 towards events.

The group come forward after the Fun in the Sun Committee collapsed because of a lack of volunteers.

Provincial Seatbelt Campaigns Nabs Plenty

Ontario Provincial Police say they have laid more than 5,500 seatbelt charges during their spring seatbelt campaign.

Sergeant Dave Woodford says police were shocked by the high number, since there were only 3,000 charges up to the end of March.

The spring campaign lasted only a week, ending Sunday.

Cottages Destroyed by Fire

Seven cottages near Kenora have been have destroyed by fire.

Saturday morning's blaze started in one cabin but spread to others nearby because of their proximity to one another.

Damage is estimated to top in excess of half a million dollars.

The cause is still under investigation.

Dancers Win in St. Paul

A truckload of awards for members of a local dance school.

18 dancers with the Dancemakers School of Dance Competitive team won seven high gold and 13 gold, along with several other awards, in a variety of group and solo competitions in St. Paul, Minnesota, on the weekend.

Three dancers, Maighyn DeGagne, Gabi Peters, and Hailey Wirtz were also invited to participate in an upcoming Pacific Coast Dance Fest.

Hydro Rates Go Up

Electricity prices are going up.

Starting May 1st, a typical household using 800 kilowatt hours a month will see the "electricity'' line on their hydro bill increase by nearly six dollars.

Consumers using smart meters - or time-of-use pricing - will see an increase of about four dollars.

The Ontario Energy Board says the changes are due to reduced use of coal, which is being replaced with natural gas, nuclear and renewable energy.

Wood Bill Passes Second Reading

Second reading has passed on a northwestern Ontario MPP's call for wood to be used as a primary construction material in the building of provincially funded buildings.

Thunder Bay-Atikokan MPP Bill Mauro says it's a step towards helping a beleaguered forestry industry.

Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell supports the bill in principle, but would like to see it go farther by ensuring Ontario wood is used in that construction.

Rafferty FEDNOR Critic

Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty has given some responsibilities in new NDP leader Thomas Mulcair's shadow cabinet.

Rafferty will serve as the party's critic of Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario.

Working For Their Hospital

The Atikokan General Hospital Foundation is getting the help of it's business community to raise money to purchase a cardiac monitor.

A number of businesses participated in an "I'm working for my Hospital" event Friday.

Foundation Chair Cheryl Fairbairn says participants raise money anyway they want.

$5,500 was raised in last year's event.

Cause for Paws Tickets Still Available

Ticket still remains for next week's Cause for Paws event in International Falls.

It's the Borderland Humane Society's biggest fundraiser of the year

Event Chair Kallie Kantos-Fritz says the money is used to keep the animals they have in the care healthy.

Next Saturday's event includes a dinner, an auction and games.

Tickets are still available at City Drugs, Coffee Landing, Rainy River Vet or the United Health Group in the Falls

New Gold District Identified

Rainy River Resources photo

The head of Rainy River Resources believes its stumbled on a whole new gold district in northern Ontario.

The company expects a soon to be released study on its gold project north of Barwick.

President Raymond Threlkeld cautions the revised assessment will show higher capital costs, reflecting increases in labor and materials costs.

The company had previously reported known gold resources to be just below 6-million ounces with the possibility of at least another two million more.

Park Could Expand

Voyageurs National Park could soon be getting larger.

The Voyageurs National Park Association has purchase over 61 acres on the Kempton Channel of Rainy Lake on behalf of the Park.

It includes includes boreal forest and several hundred feet of sand beach shoreline.

The land will eventually be transferred to the National Park Service.

Festival Winners - Thursday

Several multiple winners in the final day of piano competitions at the Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts

Caitlin Sande and Kaylen Cunningham each earned three first place finishes.

Katelyn Bruyere, Kaitlyn Chiasson and Janissa Judson were double winners.

The festival resumes for its final week with vocal performances.

Here is a list of all winner from Thursday.


CLASS P406 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Popular Selection, Grade 4
1(tie). Samantha Martin - Reflection arranged by Mona Rejino
1(tie). Katelyn Bruyere - Reflection by Matthew Wilder

CLASS P407 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Own Choice, Grade 4
1. Katelyn Bruyere - La Toupie by Mel Bones
2. Emma Dykstra - Syncopated Dance by Béla Bartok

CLASS P906 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Popular Selection, Grade 9
1. Caitlin Sande - Bridge Over Troubled Water by Paul Simon

CLASS P806 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Popular Selection, Grade 8
1. Kaitlyn Chiasson - Love Theme from Romeo and Juliet by Nino Rota
2. Oryn Albanese - Star Wars Main Theme by J. Williams

CLASS P807 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Own Choice, Grade 8
1. Raymond Polz - Perpetual Motion by A. Previn
2. Kacia Veldhuisen - The Gypsies, Op. 109, No. 4 by J. F. Burgmüller

CLASS P804 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Post-Romantic or 20th or 21st Century, Grade 8
1(tie). Oryn Albanese - Mysterious Summer’s Night by L. Kuzmenko
1(tie). Sarah Bagacki - Crimson and Pink by Robert Starer
2. Kacia Veldhuisen - Jazz Exercise No. 2 by Oscar Peterson

CLASS P904 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Post-Romantic or 20th or 21st Century, Grade 9
1. Caitlin Sande - Golliwogg’s Cakewalk by C. Debussy

CLASS P909 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Quick Study, Grade 9
1. Caitlin Sande

CLASS P809 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Quick Study, Grade 8
1. Kaitlyn Chiasson
2. Sarah Bagacki

CLASS P023-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Jazz, Level 2
1(tie). Kaylen Cunningham - Pumpkin Boogie from Faber and Faber
1(tie). Calin Campbell - Coconut Shuffle from Faber and Faber
2. Star Martin - Surfboard Boogie by Martha Mier

CLASS P024-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Classical, Level 2
1. Mykenzie Borger - Carefree Waltz from Faber and Faber
2. Calin Campbell - Andante from Faber and Faber

CLASS P022-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Popular, Level 2
1(tie). Kaylen Cunningham - Linus and Lucy from Faber and Faber
1(tie). Janissa Judson - Skip to My Lou from Faber and Faber
2. Naomi Dunn - Home on the Range from Faber and Faber

CLASS P021-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Children’s Songs, Level 2

1(tie). Kaylen Cunningham - Over the Rainbow from Faber and Faber
1(tie). Janissa Judson - Green Frog Hop from Faber and Faber
2. Brandon Gustafson - Duke of York from Faber and Faber

Demolition of old Hotel Likely

Demolition is the most likely scenario for the shuttered Rainy Lake Hotel in Fort Frances.

Residents, attending a public meeting last Wednesday were told the building in too much disrepair and no one is stepping forward to reopen it for commercial purposes.

Tannis Drysdale, who's working with a committee exploring alternatives, says a market square is a more likely option.

Estimated cost, including demolition, has been pegged at about $1.6 million.

A final report will go to council later this spring.

Former Call Centre Worker Speaks Out

 A former worker of a Thunder Bay call centre that worked for the Conservatives in May's election says she was instructed to tell people Elections Canada had changed their polling locations.

In a sworn affidavit, Annette Desgagne says she and her colleagues at Responsive Marketing Group grew suspicious when people questioned them about the new polling locations.

Desgagne says her supervisors told her to just stick to the scripts when she voiced her concerns.

College Scores Good Report

Confederation College is boasting about a new report that gives the school the number one ranking in the province for graduate employment rate.

President Jim Madder says their internship programs make all the difference.

Madder also credits the faculty for the good numbers

Local Volunteer Recognized

A long-time volunteer in Fort Frances has been recognized by the Canadian Diabetes Association.

Cindy Gauthier with the Valley Diabetes Education Centre receives a five year pin from the Association.

Gauthier was one of three northwestern Ontario volunteers honoured at a ceremony in Fort Frances yesterday.

It's a Start

NDP Leader Andrea Horwath calls it a "baby step."

The minority Liberal government won some NDP support with the announcement the Ontario Power Authority and the Independent Electricity System Operator will merge.

Horwath says her party would also like to see Hydro One and Ontario Power Generation returning under the same roof.

Festival Results from Wednesday

Caitlin Rittau one of the star performers behind the ivories at the Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts yesterday.

Rittau captured four first place finishes in the third day of piano competitions.

They continue today at the Townshed Theatre and tonight at Knox United Church.

Some of the afternoon performances are closed to the public.

Here's a list of all winners from Wednesday.


CLASS P1301 Piano Solo, Open Piano, Introductory
1. Naomi Dunn - A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes by M. David, A. Hoffman and J. Livingston
2. Gavyn DeBenetti - In Dreams arranged by Tom Gerau

CLASS P1302 Piano Solo, Open Piano, Elementary
1. Sydney Beck - Breakaway arranged by Dan Coates
2. Samantha Martin - Fallin’ For You by Colbie Calliat

CLASS P1303 Piano Solo, Open Piano, Intermediate
1. Gareth Dunn - Wonka’s Welcome Song by Danny Elfman, arranged by Dan Coates
2. Kayla Stang - On My Own, from LES MISERABLES by Schönberg and Boublil

CLASS P032-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Popular, Level 3
1. Miko Kooistra - Legend of Madrid from Faber and Faber

CLASS P032-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Popular, Level 4
1. Caitlin Rittau - If You Believe by Jim Brickman

CLASS P041-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Children’s Songs, Level 4
1. Caitlin Rittau - Ashokan Farewell by Jay Ungar
2. Gemma Friesen - Distant Bells from Faber and Faber

CLASS P043-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Jazz, Level 4
1. Caitlin Rittau - New York, New York by John Kander

CLASS P044-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Classical, Level 4
1. Caitlin Rittau - Arabesque by J. F. Burgmüller

CLASS P011-M-A Piano Solo, Method Courses, Children’s Songs, Level 1
1(tie). Grace Kooistra - Somewhere Over the Rainbow from Faber and Faber
1(tie). Lauryn Marchant - This is Not Jingle Bells from Faber and Faber
2(tie). Olivia Eldridge - Bravery at Sea from Bastien
2(tie). Kaylyn Levesque - The Dreydl Song from Faber and Faber

CLASS P012-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Popular, Level 1
1. Kenna Spuzak - Cops and Robbers from Bastien
2(tie). Grace Kooistra - In the Jungle by Weiss, Peretti and Creatore
2(tie). Chandler Borger - Take Me Out to the Ball Game from Faber and Faber

CLASS P013-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Jazz, Level 1
1. Chandler Borger - I’ve Got Music from Faber and Faber
2(tie). Katrina Koomans - Dinosaur Stomp from Faber and Faber
2(tie). Grace Kooistra - San Francisco Trolley from Faber and Faber

CLASS P014-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Classical, Level 1
1. Lauryn Marchant - Scarf Dance from Faber and Faber
2. Mya Hamilton - Ode to Joy from Bastien

CLASS P015-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Sacred, Level 1
1. MacKenzie Jolicouer - Come Thou Almighty King from Faber and Faber
2. Andrea Schram - What a Friend We Have in Jesus from Faber and Faber

Renewed Calls for Substance Abuse Strategy

The province is being pressed again for a substance abuse strategy that helps First Nations addicts deal with the withdrawal of oxycontin.

Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell says since bringing up the issue two months ago, many health care providers and communities still look for help.

Health Minister Deb Matthews says she has convened a expert panel that's looking at how to deal with those addicted to prescription pills.

Electricity Agencies Merging

Two of Ontario's large electricity agencies are being merged.

The sources say the Liberal government will merge the Ontario Power Authority and the Independent Electricity System Operator.

The New Democrats called for agency consolidation as part of their budget demands.

Transportation Study Underway

Officials from across the region are gathering in Thunder Bay today for the first of several meetings on a new transportation strategy for northern Ontario.

Project Manager Carolyn Degroot says the plan will outline strategies for all modes transportation.

Degroot says the public will also be given an opportunity to comment at a later day with a final report expected next year.

Bigger Fireworks Possible

Minnesota residents may be able to purchase large fireworks in the State this summer.

A bill permitting their sale to consumers has been approved by the Senate and is awaiting a final vote in the House.

The current law limits consumers to sparklers and other toys low in explosives.

Emergency personnel are opposed to a looser law, saying it will cause more injuries and property damage.

Diabetes Research Highlighted

More than 3500 years of research into diabetes will be outlined at a Fort Frances event today.

Grant Maltman, curator of Banting House in  London, Ontario, is speaking at today's Canadian Diabetes Association Expo.

Maltman says the first documented mention of the disease dates back to 1552 B.C.

Canadian Doctor Frederick Banting conceived the idea of insulin in 1921.

Festival Winners from Tuesday

Plenty of double winners in the second day of piano competitions at the Rainy River District Festival of Performing Arts.

Gavyn Debenetti, MacKenzie Wright, Jacob Gustafson, Macy Andeson, Tianna Velhuisen  and Erin Gustafson each picked up first place certificates in two divisions.

The competitions continue today at the Townshend Theatre and tonight at the Knox United Church.

Here's a list of all winners from Tuesday.



CLASS P003 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Own choice, Introductory Level
1. Gavyn Debenetti - To Fly Like an Eagle by Anne Crosby

CLASS P107 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Own Choice, Grade 1
1. MacKenzie Wright - Space Fleet by Christopher Norton

CLASS P207 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Own Choice, Grade 2
1. Jacob Gustafson - Crocodile Teeth by Nancy Telfar
2. Macy Anderson - Etude in D Minor, Op. 82, No. 65 by C. Gurlitt

CLASS P002 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, 20th or 21st Century, Introductory Level
1. Gavyn DeBenetti - Starfish at Night by Anne Crosby

CLASS P102 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Romanatic or 20th or 21st Century, Grade 1
1. MacKenzie Wright - Mist by Clifford Poole

CLASS P202 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Romantic or 20th or 21st Century, Grade 2
1. Macy Anderson - The Mouse in the Coal Bin by Clifford Poole
2(tie). Jacob Gustafson - Turkish Bazaar by Mark Mrozinski
2(tie). Madison Krikke - Rag Time by Christopher Norton


CLASS P303 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Romantic or 20th or 21st Century, Grade 3
1 1. Alexa Veldhuisen - Snoopy by William Lea
2. Judy Wu - Snoopy by William Lea

CLASS P403 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Romantic or 20th or 21st Century, Grade 4
1. Katelyn Bruyere - Monkeys in a Tree by Boris Berlin

CLASS P603 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Romantic or 20th or 21st Century, Grade 6
1. Tianna Veldhuisen - Hungarian Dance by L. Papp
2. Beth Ward - Bright Orange by Robert Starer

CLASS P507 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Own Choice, Grade 5
1. Jordan Bruyere - Sweet Sorrow, Op 100, No. 16 by J. F. Burgmüller

CLASS P607 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Own Choice, Grade 6
1. Tianna Veldhuisen - The Broken Record by Mike Schoenmehl
2. Beth Ward - Toccatina, Op. 27, No. 12 by D. Kabalevsky



CLASS P903 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Romantic, Grade 9
1. Caitlin Sande - April by Tschaïkowsky

CLASS P803 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Romantic, Grade 8
1. Oryn Albanese - Chanson Triste by V. S. Kalinnikov
2. Lucas Koomans - Prelude in B Minor by Frédéric Chopin

CLASS P703 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Romantic or 20th or 21st Century,
Grade 7
1. Erin Gustafson - Venetian Boat Song by F. Mendelssohn
2. Maureen Gustafson - Go to Sleep by H. Hofmann

CLASS P707 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Own Choice, Grade 7
1. Erin Gustafson - Étude by D. Kabalevsky

CLASS P1704 Piano Ensemble, One Piano, Two Performers, Advanced
1. Sarah Bagacki and Kaitlyn Chiasson - Russian Theme by Rachmaninoff

CLASS P1404 Piano Solo, Own Composition, Advanced
1. Trevor Barker - Center Stage by Trevor Barker

CLASS P204 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Inventions, Grade 2
1(tie). Macy Anderson - Canon by Cornelius Gurlitt
1(tie). Jacob Gustafson - Jazz Invention No. 2 by Pierre Gallant

2. Madison Krikke - Jazz Invention No. 2 by Pierre Gallant

CLASS P001-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Children’s Songs, Introductory Level
1(tie). Piper Danylchuk - Yankee Doodle from Faber and Faber
1(tie). Emma Toriseva - Rain, Rain, Go Away from Faber and Faber
2(tie). Josiah Peltomaki - Old MacDonald Had a Song from Faber and Faber
2(tie). Erica Lemelin - Rain, Rain, Go Away from Faber and Faber

CLASS P002-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Popular, Introductory Level
1. Liam Dent - Row, Row, Row Your Boat from Bastien
2(tie). Angie Redford - Row, Row, Row Your Boat from Bastien
2(tie). Teagan Friesen - Lean on Me from Faber and Faber

Local Skills Competition Winner

A district high school student is heading to Waterloo at the end of this month to showcase her culinary skills.

Alice Johnston won the individual culinary arts competition at a regional event put on by Confederation College.

Johnston was the only student from the Rainy River district to qualify for the Ontario Technological Skills Competition.

Sewer Proposal Comes with Annexation

There's reluctance among residents living just west of International Falls to annex with the city to acquire sewer services.

It's an option put forward in response to request from residents in the Papermakers area.

But Bill Westover says many people will be unable to pay for their share of the $1.1 million dollar project.

The city held a meeting to give residents more information.

The city says it won't proceed without a major of property owners supporting the idea by April 30.

Petition Submitted to Legislature

Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell has read in the legislature the first of what's expected to be several petitions on the keeping the area's tourist information centers open.

Campbell says studies show this region brings in more money per stay than any other part of Ontario, in part due to visitors attending attractions they learned about by visiting the tourist information centres.

Power Back

Power is fully restored in the Rainy River district.

More than four hundred residents living between Mine Centre and Flanders, including Lac La Croix First Nation were without power for several hours yesterday.

Part of the reason for the lengthy outage was weather.

It prohibited Hydro One from getting a helicopter in the air to fly the area.

Budget Vote April 24

The fate of Ontario's minority Liberal government will hang in the balance a week from today in the budget vote.

If the opposition parties vote down the budget, voters will be going to the polls for the second time in less than a year.

The Liberals need at least two opposition votes to survive and have yet to strike a deal with the N-D-P.

"Speak Up" About Advance Care Planning

Area residents are being encouraged to "Speak Up" about the type of health care they want in the event they aren't able to communicate their wishes later on.

Marg Poling of the Northwest Community Care Access Centre says too many people aren't prepared.

Officials says the discussions should start early and often as situations in life changes

Festival Results from Monday

Mika Kooistra was the big winner on the first day of piano competitions at the Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts.

Kooistra won three times with strong individuals performances and another as a duet with sister Grace.

The festival continues at the Townshend Theatre today and at Knox United Church tonight.

Here's a list of all winners.


CLASS P902 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Classical, Grade 9
1. Caitlin Sande - Sonatina in G Major I by W.A. Mozart

CLASS P802 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Classical, Grade 8
1. Sarah Bagacki - Sonatina in A Major, Op. 59, No. 1 by Fredrich Kuhlau
2. Kaitlyn Chiasson - Sonata in B Major by Domenico Cimarasa

CLASS P801 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Baroque, Grade 8
1. Lucas Koomans - Sonata in C Minor, 3rd Movement - Presto by Giovanni Pescetti
2. Kacia Velldhuisen - Invention No. 13 in A Minor by J.S. Bach

CLASS P601 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Baroque, Grade 6
1. Beth Layne Ward - Aria by G.P. Telmann

CLASS P501 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Baroque, Grade 5
1. Jordan Bruyere - Little Prelude in C Major by J.S. Bach

CLASS P401 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Baroque, Grade 4
1. Katelyn Bruyere - Minuet in D Minor by J.S. Bach

CLASS P301 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Baroque, Grade 3
1. Judy Wu - Hornpipe in B Major by H. Purcell
2(tie). Brianna Eldridge  - Minuet in G by J.S. Bach
2(tie). Alexa Veldhuisen - Musette in D Major attributed to J.S. Bach

CLASS P302 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Classical, Grade 3
1. Alexa Veldhuisen - Sonatina in C Major, Op. 36, No. 1 (I) by M. Clementi
2. Judy Wu - Sonatina in C Major, No. 20 by A. Gedike

CLASS P402 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Classical, Grade 4
1. Emma Dykstra - Sonatina in G Major, Op. 36, No.2 (III) by M. Clementi
2. Katelyn Bruyere - Sonatina in G Major, Op. 36, No.2 (III) by M. Clementi

CLASS P502 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Classical, Grade 5
1. Gareth Dunn - Sonata in A Minor, Op. 214, No. 4 (II & III) by C. Gurlitt
2. Jordan Bruyere - Sonata in F Major (I) by L.V. Beethoven

CLASS P602 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Classical, Grade 6
1. Tianna Veldhuisen - Divertimento in G Major Hob. XVI: G1 by J. Haydn
2. Arthur Van Ael - Sonatina in C Major, Op. 20, No. 1(I) by Friedrich Kuhlau

CLASS P201 Piano Solo, Examination Courses, Baroque or Classical, Grade 2
1. Jacob Gustafson - Allegretto by Christian Gotlöb Neese
2. Macy Anderson - Menuetto I in C Major by W.A. Mozart

CLASS P1503 Piano Solo, Traditional Hymn, Folk Hymn or Modern Chorus Accompaniment, Intermediate
1(tie). Alexa Veldhuisen - Indescribable arranged by T. Gerou and V. Labenske
1(tie). Tianna Veldhuisen - Blessed Be Your Name by M. and B. Redman
2. Emma Dykstra - Hosanna by P. Baloche, B. Brown, arranged by P. Keveren

CLASS P005-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Sacred, Introductory Level
1. Josiah Peltomaki - Jesus Loves the Little Children by G. Root from Music in Me

CLASS P1502 Piano Solo, Traditional Hymn, Folk Hymn or Modern Chorus Accompaniment, Elementary
1. Mika Kooistra - I Will Glory in My Redeemer by S. and V. Cook

CLASS P025-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Sacred, Level 2
1. Mykenzie Borger - Wasn’t That a Band? from Faber and Faber
2. Isaac Dykstra - Forever from Play Praise

CLASS P035-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Sacred, Level 3
1. Mika Kooistra - All Through the Night from Faber and Faber
2. Annalise Rittau - The Rose by Amanda McBroom

CLASS P1801 Family, One Piano, Two Performers
1. Grace Kooistra and Mika Kooistra - The Handbell Choir by C. Gurlitt

CLASS P1703 Piano Ensemble, One Piano, Two Performers, Intermediate
1. Katelyn Bruyere and Jordan Bruyere - Crocodile Rock by Elton John and Bernie Taupin

CLASS P1702 Piano Ensemble, One Piano, Two Performers, Elementary
1. Madison Krikke and MacKenzie Wright - Main St. Shufle by Martha Mier

CLASS P1701 Piano Ensemble, One Piano, Two Performers, Introductory
1(tie). Janissa Judson and Andrea Schram  - Bluebird on My Shoulder from Faber and Faber
1(tie). Mykenzie Borger and Chandler Borger - Yellow Polka Dot Bikini by Vance and Pockriss, arranged by Carol Matz

CLASS P031-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Children`s Songs, Level 3
1. Mika Kooistra - Fiesta España from Faber and Faber
2(tie). Annalise Rittau - The Tempest from Faber and Faber
2(tie). Aaron Rittau - Persian Market from Faber and Faber

CLASS P033-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Jazz, Level 3
1. Morgan Haw - Cool Walkin’ Bass from Faber and Faber
2. Annalise Rittau - The Piano Playin’ Chocolate Eater’s Blues from Faber and Faber

CLASS P034-M Piano Solo, Method Courses, Classical, Level 3
1. Morgan Haw - Morning from Faber and Faber
2. Aaron Rittau - Allegretto by Anton Diabelli

Early Fishing Proposal Waning

The appetite to let Minnesota's anglers hit the lakes a week earlier for the annual walleye opener seems to be fading at the state Capitol.

Minnesota senators involved in outdoors issues gave it the thumbs-down Monday.

Minnesota's opener is set for May 12.

A proposal would shift it to May 5, partly to keep it from conflicting with Mother's Day weekend.

Winter Hits the District Again

Winter is giving the Rainy River district and Koochiching County another kick at the can.

The hardest hit area is between Atikokan and Mine Centre where a heavy snowfall warning remains in effect.

Highway 11 between Atikokan and the Trans Canada Highway is closed because of poor conditions.

Most other roads in the Rainy River area are listed as being snow covered with slushy sections.

Winter storm advisories have also been issued in Koochiching County where hazardous driving conditions are listed for most roads.

School Buses Cancelled

Weather is the reason for the cancellation of several school buses in the Rainy River district.

All buses in Atikokan are not running today.

Elementary and high school school buses from Seine River and Red Gut have also been parked.

Power Outage

Power has now been restored to a small number of residents living just west of Fort Frances.

Approximately 43 customers living around the Frog Creek area lost their electricity for a brief time this morning.

It was blamed on a blown fuse.

Petitions Coming to Legislature

Opposition to the closure of this area's tourist information centres reaches Queen's Park today.

Several petitions, initiated by Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell, will be presented to the legislature.

Campbell is also planning to meet with Tourism Minister Michael Chan.

Campbell says keeping the centres open is also part of the NDP's request to the Liberals for supporting a budget vote.

Question of the Week

In response to question on our website last week, 75 per cent support keeping the tourist information centres open.

This week we ask if you favour plans to develop a market square on the site of the current Rainy Lake Hotel.

Let us know on our website 931theborder.ca.

Youth Plea to Their Parents

Some First Nations children in a remote northwestern Ontario reserve have written a heartbreaking letter to their drug-addicted parents.

The Grade Six students from Cat Lake write that they want their parents to stop doing drugs because it hurts their families.

Community leaders figure that between 70 and 80 per cent of the adults are hooked on narcotic pain killers OxyContin or Percocets.

Diabetes Expo This Week

An opportunity this week to learn more about the prevention and management of diabetes.

Richard Boon of the Canadian Diabetes Association says they're holding an expo at the Adventure Inn in Fort Frances Wednesday.

It goes from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

The event will also promote the latest in programs, services and equipment as well other health care agencies.

Festival Continues

The Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts continues today with a week long of piano competitions.

Today's performances will be at the Townshend Theatre before moving to Knox United Church tonight.

Friday, Oryn Albanese, Kaayla Fox and Bobby Halvorsen were multi-winners in the english drama division.

Here's a list of all winners from Friday


CLASS A709-A Choral Speaking, Grades 9 and 10

1. Alexandra Andrushuk, Christian Andy, Christopher Jensen, Danni Mainville, Ceder Ogier, Joseph Onichuk, Wyatt Whitecrowe and Cristian Windego - Orpheus by Margaret Atwood

2(tie). Amber Buhler, Taylor Hazel, Aaron McDowall, Lena Morelli, Tyler Mosbeck, Darren Lundgren and Kassidy Ogden - Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night by Dylan Thomas
2(tie). Kaitlyn Cottam, Sarah Milling, Cole Hyatt, Trent Roe, Paul Smart, Jessica Phung and Danielle Jackson - Waiter!...There’s an Alligator in My coffee by Joe Rosenblatt

CLASS A1002 Skit, Grade 11 and 12
1. Bobby Halvorsen and Aimee McEvoy
2. Natasha Petawanaqueb and Aimee McEvoy

CLASS A504-A Serious Reading, Grades 11 and 12
Excerpt from Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
1. Carramaena Onichuk

CLASS A504-C Serious Reading, Grades 11 and 12
Excerpt from The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
1. Kaayla Fox

CLASS A504-D Humorous Reading, Grades 11 and 12
This May Hurt a Little by Eric Nicol
1. Oryn Albanese
2. Aric Chapman

CLASS A110-A Serious Poetry, Grades 11 and 12

Phenomenal Woman by Maya Angelou
1. Tanika Andy
2. Tori Sikora

CLASS A204 Original Poetry, Grades 11 and 12
1. Louis Linklater
2. Tristian Spilchuk - Deadbeat by Tristian Spilchuk

CLASS A1302 Serious Monologue, Grades 11 and 12
1(tie). Oryn Albanese - Billy Bishop Goes to War by John Gray and Eric Peterson
1(tie). Kaayla Fox - One Thousand Cranes by Colin Thomas
2(tie). Aimee McEvoy - Drag Queen on Trial by Sky Gilbert
2(tie). Tori Sikora - Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw

CLASS A1306 Humorous Monologue, Grades 11 and 12
1. Bobby Halvorsen - Office Hours by Norm Foster
2(tie). Tristian Spilchuk - Urban Voodoo by Jim Millan and Peter Hinton
2(tie). Carramaena Onichuk - Melville Boys by Norm Foster

Suspect in Robbery Sought

OPP  have issued a public alert in their search for a man wanted in connection with this past week's armed robbery at the Canada Safeway Gas Bar in Fort Frances.

Police are looking for 24-year-old Joshua Enns.

He's identified as being native, 5-11 and 198 pounds.

Police do consider him to be a risk to the public.

Tuesday night's robbery involved a man armed with a hand gun taking an undisclosed amount of cash.