Plans to build a new group home on the site of the former Our Lady of the Valley
School on Brinkman Road are a step closer.
Kenora City Council has given its approval to site plans for the property and
the building design.
Planning Assistant Tara Rickaby says local motorists and pedestrians will
notice some changes in the area.
Council is still waiting for the city solicitor to review the site plan
before giving it their full endorsement.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Saints soccer teams heading to OFSAA
Both of Thomas Aquinas soccer teams will be heading to the All-Ontario
Single A championships this week.
The Saints girls swept Terrace Bay on Friday in the NWOSSA championships
to advance to the OFSAA finals in Sudbury.
The T.A. Boys also advanced, getting by Marathon in their best-of-three
NWOSSA championships over the weekend.
The Saints boys are travelling to Windsor for the OFSAA finals on
Thursday.
Single A championships this week.
The Saints girls swept Terrace Bay on Friday in the NWOSSA championships
to advance to the OFSAA finals in Sudbury.
The T.A. Boys also advanced, getting by Marathon in their best-of-three
NWOSSA championships over the weekend.
The Saints boys are travelling to Windsor for the OFSAA finals on
Thursday.
OPP issue fines for cellphone use
The Kenora Detachment of the OPP says it has been issuing fines for
people who have been driving and using their cell-phones while driving.
Inspector Dave Lucas told the police services board this week that about
20 tickets have been issued locally.
The new law went into effect back in October of 2009.
The maximum fine for using a cellphone while driving is 500 dollars.
people who have been driving and using their cell-phones while driving.
Inspector Dave Lucas told the police services board this week that about
20 tickets have been issued locally.
The new law went into effect back in October of 2009.
The maximum fine for using a cellphone while driving is 500 dollars.
Bridge Tenders awarded
much work will be needed to refurbish aging bridges.
Stantec Engineering from Winnipeg was chosen to carry out pre-design and detailed
design work on the Keewatin Channel and the Winnipeg River West Branch bridges.
Council held a special meeting on Friday to award the tender.
The cost of rehabiliting the bridges is expected to be several hundred thousand dollars.
Plane skids off runway
A scary incident at the Kenora Airport.
Friday afternoon a Piper single engine aircraft ran off the runway while
trying to land.
The OPP say rain and strong winds were to blame.
There were three people on board the airplane at the time, including
the pilot, but fortunately no-one was injured.
Police say the aircraft did sustain some damage as a result of
the incident.
Friday afternoon a Piper single engine aircraft ran off the runway while
trying to land.
The OPP say rain and strong winds were to blame.
There were three people on board the airplane at the time, including
the pilot, but fortunately no-one was injured.
Police say the aircraft did sustain some damage as a result of
the incident.
Social Services tab pushes taxes up
Local residents are going to have to pay a bit more in taxes this year than first expected.
When city council passed the budget back in February, the Kenora District Services hadn't
approved its budget yet.
Now the city has been told it will need an extra 98 thousand dollars to cover the increased
levy for social services.
Councillor Dave McCann says the budget for the Services Board continues to rise, even though
the province is picking up more of the costs for social services.
For the average homeowner, another .54 percent is going to be added onto their tax bill
to cover the extra costs associated with the Services Board Budget.
Mental Health and Addictions report released
Mental health and addiction services are the two topics being studied by a new provincial government group.
An interim report has been released after several community meetings in northwestern Ontario.
Committee Member Sylvia Jones says they'll be bringing the information forward to the responsible ministries.
Jones says the remoteness of the communities consulted make it hard to provide mental health and addiction services.
Contact North gets Funding
Contact North is upgrading its facilities in the region thanks to the provincial taxpayer.
The distance education facility has been given 3 and a half million dollars from the McGuinty government to modernize it's video equipment.
CEO Maxim Jean-Louis calls it an upgrade and enhancement.
Jean-Louis says the government helps Contact North with upgrades on a regular basis.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Saints Soccer Teams vie for NWOSSA crowns
The Thomas Aquinas girls soccer team is a win away from advancing to the
provincial Single A championships next week in Sudbury.
The Saints blanked Terrace Bay 4-0.
Julia Withers, Sammy Burkhart, Kristen Hancock and Melissa White
each scored for T.A.
Game two of the best-of-three series is 9:00 this morning.
Meanwhile, the Saints boys soccer team is taking on Marathon in a best-of-three NWOSSA final.
Game one is scheduled for 10 this morning, with game two at 6:00 tonight.
The winner of the series will earn a berth to next weeks all-Ontario single "a"
championships in Windsor.
provincial Single A championships next week in Sudbury.
The Saints blanked Terrace Bay 4-0.
Julia Withers, Sammy Burkhart, Kristen Hancock and Melissa White
each scored for T.A.
Game two of the best-of-three series is 9:00 this morning.
Meanwhile, the Saints boys soccer team is taking on Marathon in a best-of-three NWOSSA final.
Game one is scheduled for 10 this morning, with game two at 6:00 tonight.
The winner of the series will earn a berth to next weeks all-Ontario single "a"
championships in Windsor.
Wunnumin Lake Fatality
A coroner has determined the cause of death of a young Wunnumin Lake First Nation man.
Nishnawbe-Aski Police and OPP found the body of the 15-year-old at his home on May 19th.
A post-mortum revealed that Jared Angees died from the effects of propane gas.
No criminal charges are being laid.
Nishnawbe-Aski Police and OPP found the body of the 15-year-old at his home on May 19th.
A post-mortum revealed that Jared Angees died from the effects of propane gas.
No criminal charges are being laid.
MNR Battles Large Wildfire
Ministry of Natural Resources fire crews are trying to get a
handle on a massive wildfire near Pikangikum First Nation north of
Red Lake.
Two waterbombers and 15 FireRanger crews are battling the
three-thousand-hectare blaze 15 kilometres northeast of the
community.
The blaze was started by lightning earlier in the week.
The fire hazard is moderate through the central areas of
northwestern Ontario, with pockets of high to extreme areas in the
Red Lake, Thunder Bay and Nipigon districts.
handle on a massive wildfire near Pikangikum First Nation north of
Red Lake.
Two waterbombers and 15 FireRanger crews are battling the
three-thousand-hectare blaze 15 kilometres northeast of the
community.
The blaze was started by lightning earlier in the week.
The fire hazard is moderate through the central areas of
northwestern Ontario, with pockets of high to extreme areas in the
Red Lake, Thunder Bay and Nipigon districts.
Fines for illegal fishing on Lake of the Woods
A Minnesota lodge owner and several american anglers have been hit with
over 4 thousand dollars in fines for illegal walleye fishing on Lake of the Woods.
Back in march, conservation officers were patrolling an area near Oak Island
at the border between Canada and the U.S.
They noticed a number of anglers ice fishing in Ontario waters and then saw
a snowmobile transport their limit of eight walleye to the Angle Inn Lodge.
The same anglers then caught and kept another eight walleye.
Angle Inn Lodge owner Anthony Wandersee and another person were fined
15 hundred dollars.
Three anglers were also fined 500 dollars each for catching an overlimit of
walleye.
over 4 thousand dollars in fines for illegal walleye fishing on Lake of the Woods.
Back in march, conservation officers were patrolling an area near Oak Island
at the border between Canada and the U.S.
They noticed a number of anglers ice fishing in Ontario waters and then saw
a snowmobile transport their limit of eight walleye to the Angle Inn Lodge.
The same anglers then caught and kept another eight walleye.
Angle Inn Lodge owner Anthony Wandersee and another person were fined
15 hundred dollars.
Three anglers were also fined 500 dollars each for catching an overlimit of
walleye.
Bring back Spring Bear Hunt
The provincial government is being urged to bring back the spring bear
hunt.
The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters says its concerned with the
number of encounters that have been reported so far this spring.
Terry Quinney is a spokesperson for the OFAH and says they are
particularly concerned with reports about a couple of bear attacks in
central Ontario recently.
Quinney says the BearWise program operated by the Ministry of Natural
Resources has been a failure and has done nothing to deal with the
growing black bear population in the province.
Electronics Recycling Day
Its the first event of its kind in Kenora.
Ontario Electronic Stewardship is holding an recycling day
at the Waste Transfer Station on Barsky's Hill.
Carol Hochu is executive director of the agency and says they have
a number of electronic recycling depots across the province, but
very few in northwestern Ontario.
Hochu says they will be accepting a wide variety of electronic items,
including old TV's, cameras, telephones, cellphones, printers, keyboards
and computer monitors.
The electronic recycling day will take place from 9 to 5 tomorrow.
Ontario Electronic Stewardship is holding an recycling day
at the Waste Transfer Station on Barsky's Hill.
Carol Hochu is executive director of the agency and says they have
a number of electronic recycling depots across the province, but
very few in northwestern Ontario.
Hochu says they will be accepting a wide variety of electronic items,
including old TV's, cameras, telephones, cellphones, printers, keyboards
and computer monitors.
The electronic recycling day will take place from 9 to 5 tomorrow.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Bronco Girls winn Soccer Gold
A gold medal for Beaver Brae's girls soccer team.
The Broncos downed Fort Frances 4-1 yesterday in the
NorWOSSA gold medal game in Dryden.
Maddie Trudeau, Jade Melillo, Manon Magnan, and Sam Smith
all scored for Beaver Brae.
They are now off to the provincial championships next week in Sarnia.
Meanwhile, the Thomas Aquinas girls soccer team is in Terrace
Bay today for the start of the NWOSSA single "a" championships.
The first two games of the best-of-three series will be held today.
The Saints boys team is hosting Marathon in the NWOSSA finals
tomorrow at T.A.
The Broncos downed Fort Frances 4-1 yesterday in the
NorWOSSA gold medal game in Dryden.
Maddie Trudeau, Jade Melillo, Manon Magnan, and Sam Smith
all scored for Beaver Brae.
They are now off to the provincial championships next week in Sarnia.
Meanwhile, the Thomas Aquinas girls soccer team is in Terrace
Bay today for the start of the NWOSSA single "a" championships.
The first two games of the best-of-three series will be held today.
The Saints boys team is hosting Marathon in the NWOSSA finals
tomorrow at T.A.
Stanley Cup Wager
counterpart.
Mayor Sam Katz contacted Compton this morning and asked him to put a bet on the
Stanley Cup Play-offs.
Winnipeg is the home of Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews, while Kenora
is home to Philadelpia Flyers Captain Mike Richards.
Katz says he'll take Compton for a fishing trip on Lake Winnipeg if Philadelphia wins,
while Compton promised Katz a day of fishing on Lake of the Woods if Chicago claims the cup.
The Stanley Cup Final begins Saturday night in Chicago.
Aboriginal Education Bursary
Northwestern Ontario's aboriginal students will now have access to a quarter million dollar endowment fund for post secondary education.
The fund was created by Ontario's transport medicine group "ORNGE" and the aviation company AgustaWestland.
Confederation College President Pat Lang is happy first nation students will have the extra funds to take part in their aviation courses.
The community endowment fund was announced at the College's Aviation Day and fly by demonstration of the Snow birds.
The fund was created by Ontario's transport medicine group "ORNGE" and the aviation company AgustaWestland.
Confederation College President Pat Lang is happy first nation students will have the extra funds to take part in their aviation courses.
The community endowment fund was announced at the College's Aviation Day and fly by demonstration of the Snow birds.
Policing Statistics released
The OPP says it will take about a year to see if their policing plan for the
City of Kenora is working.
Inspector Dave Lucas presented his monthly statistics to the police services
board yesterday.
He says there were just over 12 hundred calls for service in April, up slightly
from the month before.
He says much of the crime they see is still tied to local youths and also to
drug use.
He says these are areas they have specifically targeted in their 2010 business
plan.
City of Kenora is working.
Inspector Dave Lucas presented his monthly statistics to the police services
board yesterday.
He says there were just over 12 hundred calls for service in April, up slightly
from the month before.
He says much of the crime they see is still tied to local youths and also to
drug use.
He says these are areas they have specifically targeted in their 2010 business
plan.
Summer Jobs Funding
Employers looking to hire students this summer should have access to a bit more
funding.
The federal government says it will be making 198 thousand dollars available
this year in the Kenora Riding.
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford says the goal is to create more than 70 summer
jobs in the riding.
Rickford says the government has committed about 20 thousand dollars
more to the summer jobs program this year, which translates to about
eight jobs.
funding.
The federal government says it will be making 198 thousand dollars available
this year in the Kenora Riding.
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford says the goal is to create more than 70 summer
jobs in the riding.
Rickford says the government has committed about 20 thousand dollars
more to the summer jobs program this year, which translates to about
eight jobs.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Ice Fishing Fines
An ice fishing trip on Lake of the Woods has ended up costing 2-American anglers in excess of 19-hundred dollars.
Ronald Tobkin of Minnesota and Bruce Nereson of North Dakota were fined for catching and keeping 13-black crappies over their legal limit.
The men were stopped 2-months ago while bringing the fish back to the United States.
Conservation officers found 38 of the small fish in the anglers off-road vehicle.
Ronald Tobkin of Minnesota and Bruce Nereson of North Dakota were fined for catching and keeping 13-black crappies over their legal limit.
The men were stopped 2-months ago while bringing the fish back to the United States.
Conservation officers found 38 of the small fish in the anglers off-road vehicle.
Camping rates going up due to HST
It's going to cost a bit more to camp in a provincial park this summer.
Starting July 1st the harmonized sales tax will be tacked on to the cost of renting a camp site.
Ontario Parks Spokesperson Bruce Van Stalldinen says they don't think the extra tax will impact reservations.
The cost to rent a camp site ranges from 25 to 40 dollars.
The extra tax could mean an extra dollar sixty to three dollars on the final total.
Starting July 1st the harmonized sales tax will be tacked on to the cost of renting a camp site.
Ontario Parks Spokesperson Bruce Van Stalldinen says they don't think the extra tax will impact reservations.
The cost to rent a camp site ranges from 25 to 40 dollars.
The extra tax could mean an extra dollar sixty to three dollars on the final total.
Bronco Cheerleaders earn silver at Nationals
A silver lining for the Bronco Cheerleading squad at the first ever
national Cheerleading championships.
The Broncos were competing in the senior open school division in
Montreal.
After the first day, Beaver Brae was in third place.
But after their final round performance, they moved up to
second.
national Cheerleading championships.
The Broncos were competing in the senior open school division in
Montreal.
After the first day, Beaver Brae was in third place.
But after their final round performance, they moved up to
second.
NorWOSSA Double "A" Soccer Finals
The NorWOSSA double "a" soccer finals take place today in Dryden.
The Beaver Brae boys are first up this morning at 9:30 when they take on
the host Eagles in semi-final action.
The winner will play Fort Frances in the final at 1:30.
Meanwhile, the Bronco girls have secured a bye into the gold medal
game this afternoon after finishing first in the regular season standings.
The girls final is scheduled for 3:30 this afternoon.
the host Eagles in semi-final action.
The winner will play Fort Frances in the final at 1:30.
Meanwhile, the Bronco girls have secured a bye into the gold medal
game this afternoon after finishing first in the regular season standings.
The girls final is scheduled for 3:30 this afternoon.
Hunters fined
Two men from Moonbeam, Ontario have been fined a total of 29-hundred dollars for illegal hunting at night on Highway 619 near Morson.
A Conservation officer was on routine patrol last November when the officer stopped a truck shortly after 7 o'clock.
A spotlight and firearm were seized the the men were arrested.
Yves Boissonneault and Donald Boulianne have also been banned from hunting for 4-years.
A Conservation officer was on routine patrol last November when the officer stopped a truck shortly after 7 o'clock.
A spotlight and firearm were seized the the men were arrested.
Yves Boissonneault and Donald Boulianne have also been banned from hunting for 4-years.
MNR monitors lightning strikes
The Ministry of Natural Resources is ramping up its fire-detection patrols in northwestern Ontario.
This, after a thunderstorm trekked across the region on Monday.
Fire information officer Mitch Miller in Dryden says there were over 50-thousand lightning strikes from northern Quetico Provincial Park to the south shore of Lake Nipigon.
He says some areas didn't get any rainfall and the lightning could spark fires.
AbitibiBowater Updates Bankruptcy plan
AbitibiBowater says its filed amendments to its plans aimed at exit bankruptcy protection to courts in Canada and the United States.
It's targeting this fall as a date to emerge from creditor protection.
The plan outlines on how creditor's claims will be handled.
The insolvent newsprint giant has been in bankruptcy protection since April of 2009.
Province approves Northern Energy Rebate
You can bank on a northern ontario energy rebate if you're deemed low or middle income.
The McGuinty Government passed the rebate legislation last Thursday.
Minister of Northern Development Michael Gravelle says the legislation is here to stay.
Single Northerners could see up to 130 dollars, while families and single parents will get up to 200 dollars.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
More fires over long weekend
Despite some wet weather, the Ministry of Natural Resources says there were eight new forest fires reported over the long weekend.
Blazes were reported in most districts including Fort Frances, Dryden and
Sioux Lookout.
The rain over the weekend did allow fire crews to declare four active fires
out.
The largest fire still burning in the area is 110 kilometers east of Red Lake, now
at 11 hundred hectares in size.
The MNR says it is concerned that all the lightning over the weekend could trigger
news fires in the region.
Blazes were reported in most districts including Fort Frances, Dryden and
Sioux Lookout.
The rain over the weekend did allow fire crews to declare four active fires
out.
The largest fire still burning in the area is 110 kilometers east of Red Lake, now
at 11 hundred hectares in size.
The MNR says it is concerned that all the lightning over the weekend could trigger
news fires in the region.
Gun Bill Vote in jeopardy
Kenora MP Greg Rickford says the Liberal opposition is doing everything it its power to stall a bill aimed at scrapping the Gun registry.
Rickford says all Liberals have been instructed to vote against the bill and notes the future of the registry lies in the hands of the NDP.
Rickford expects a third and final vote on the Bill in June.
Prime Minister Visits Kenora Riding
Stephen Harper was in Dryden on Saturday for the airshow.
It was his fifth visit to the riding in the past three years.
Harper says he came in to help celebrate Dryden's 100th birthday.
Harper also thanked area Veterans for their service to Canada and the community.
The Prime Minister also made a major funding announcement for the Domtar Mill.
RCMP Investigates Falcon Lake Accident
Two people had to be taken to Lake of the Woods District Hospital following
an early morning crash near Falcon Lake.
The RCMP say a head on collision involving an SUV and a passenger
vehicle took place about one kilometer west of the community on
Highway 1 around 3:30 Sunday morning.
The jaws of life were needed to extricate the driver and two passengers
from the vehicle, and they were transported to hospital in Kenora.
The two people inside the SUV were taken to hospital in Steinbach for
treatment.
Police say alcohol was not a factor in the collision.
The Trans-Canada was closed for about three hours due to the
accident.
an early morning crash near Falcon Lake.
The RCMP say a head on collision involving an SUV and a passenger
vehicle took place about one kilometer west of the community on
Highway 1 around 3:30 Sunday morning.
The jaws of life were needed to extricate the driver and two passengers
from the vehicle, and they were transported to hospital in Kenora.
The two people inside the SUV were taken to hospital in Steinbach for
treatment.
Police say alcohol was not a factor in the collision.
The Trans-Canada was closed for about three hours due to the
accident.
Free Parks Passes
Enjoy Canada's Parks.
That's the message being delivered by Kenora MP Greg Rickford who is visiting area communities with a special gift in hand.
Rickford presented grade 8 students with a free pass for all national parks and historic sites in Canada.
Rickford says the initiaitve is a great way for youth to connect with our natural and historical treasuers.
Rickford made the announcement at Evergreen Public School and Thomas Aquinas School on Friday.
Grassy Blockade taken down
As one road block comes down in the region, another has gone up.
Treaty Three Police say a two day blockade on the Grassy Narrows First Nation has come
to a peaceful resolution.
A road block was set up last week at the entrance to the community on Highway 671.
Treaty Three Police were denied access to conduct general patrols due to a number of
policing concerns.
The deputy chief of the police service, met with community members Thursday afternoon.
Treaty Three Police have made a committment to look at Grassy's concerns over the next
few weeks.
Meanwhile, a toll booth was set up on Couchiching First Nation near Fort Frances late Friday
afternoon.
The band says its asking for a dollar per vehicle for any vehicle to gain access to Highway 11
in their community.
Its trying to get the federal and provincial government to address a number of issues in
the community.
So far, the OPP say there have been no incidents at the toll both, and delays have been
minimal over the weekend.
Treaty Three Police say a two day blockade on the Grassy Narrows First Nation has come
to a peaceful resolution.
A road block was set up last week at the entrance to the community on Highway 671.
Treaty Three Police were denied access to conduct general patrols due to a number of
policing concerns.
The deputy chief of the police service, met with community members Thursday afternoon.
Treaty Three Police have made a committment to look at Grassy's concerns over the next
few weeks.
Meanwhile, a toll booth was set up on Couchiching First Nation near Fort Frances late Friday
afternoon.
The band says its asking for a dollar per vehicle for any vehicle to gain access to Highway 11
in their community.
Its trying to get the federal and provincial government to address a number of issues in
the community.
So far, the OPP say there have been no incidents at the toll both, and delays have been
minimal over the weekend.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Service Canada closures
Service Canada has announced plans to close several Employment Insurance Claim processing sites in Northern Ontario.
The sites slated for closure by 2014 include Kenora, Thunder Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, North Bay and Timmins.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty isn't happy with the cuts and says they come at a bad time considering the economic situation in the region.
The move is meant to centralize services bringing the number of offices in the province down from 24 to 6.
Highway 71 open again
Highway 71 between Sioux Narrows and Nestor Falls is open to traffic again
after being closed for a couple of hours yesterday afternoon.
A large sinkhole opened up in the road in the area of Cameron Lake.
The Ministry of Transportion was contacted and the problems was fixed
by about 6:30 last night.
Its believed a broken beaver dam caused the problem.
after being closed for a couple of hours yesterday afternoon.
A large sinkhole opened up in the road in the area of Cameron Lake.
The Ministry of Transportion was contacted and the problems was fixed
by about 6:30 last night.
Its believed a broken beaver dam caused the problem.
NorWOSSA Single "A" soccer play-offs today
The second season in the high school soccer league begins today.
The NorWOSSA single "a" championships take place in Red Lake.
The Thomas Aquinas Saints go into today's play-offs as the number one
ranked boys and girls teams after round-robin play.
The winners will move onto the NWOSSA championships next week.
The NorWOSSA single "a" championships take place in Red Lake.
The Thomas Aquinas Saints go into today's play-offs as the number one
ranked boys and girls teams after round-robin play.
The winners will move onto the NWOSSA championships next week.
Provincial Parks open for the Long Weekend
Provincial Parks in Ontario will be full of activity this May long weekend.
It's the opening weekend for camping, and an alcohol ban is in place at most of the provincial sites in the region.
Parks Spokesperson Barb Rees says the alcohol ban is in place at Blue Lake, Rushing River, Sleeping Giant, Aero Lake and Silver Falls until May 24th.
Fire Hazard on the rise
Things are starting to heat up in the bush.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says they are dealing with active fires in the region.
Fire Information Officer Debbie McLean says the hazard in the region is definitely on the rise.
While there isn't a restricted fire zone in place, the MNR is encouraging local residents to postpone any outdoor burning over the long weekend.
(Photo courtesy of the MNR)
Toll starts today on Couchiching First Nation
Plans are in place for the band members to set up a toll booth tomorrow on a section of Highway 11 that runs through the community near Fort Frances.
Chief McPherson says he's taking a lot of heat for his position, but says it's a matter of priniciple
McPherson says he is prepared to go to jail for his stand.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Electronic Waste Recycling
Get ready to junk your old computers and TV's.
Kenora's waste transfer station will be holding a one day
electronics recycling campaign on Saturday, May 29th.
Councillor Dave McCann says they want to keep electronic
items out of the landfill if possible.
The Ontario Electric Stewardship is sponsoring the
one day recycling blitz.
There is only two electronic recycling depots in northwestern
Ontario and both are located in Thunder Bay.
Water Main Leak Fixed
City work crews have been able to find and fix
a water main leak under the Safeway Bridge.
Crews have been working for the past couple of days to try and get to the problem area.
While crews continue to work at the scene, traffic is moving normally across the bridge over Laurenson's Creek after being reduced to one lane
over the past two days.
BIZ Levy approved
The Kenora Business Improvement Zone will be getting another 48 thousand dollars
from its members this year.
Kenora City Council approved the 2010 levy at its open meeting this week.
Chair of the downtown BIZ, Kerick Funk says they currently have almost
300 members.
He adds they have a number of beautification projects this summer and will
be hiring a summer student to work on some of their initiatives.
from its members this year.
Kenora City Council approved the 2010 levy at its open meeting this week.
Chair of the downtown BIZ, Kerick Funk says they currently have almost
300 members.
He adds they have a number of beautification projects this summer and will
be hiring a summer student to work on some of their initiatives.
Youth in Philanthropy
Eight community groups are 700 dollars richer today thanks to the Youth in
Philanthropy programs at both Thomas Aquinas and Beaver Brae high schools.
A granting ceremony took place yesterday where the cheques were handed out to
Triple Play, Saakaate House, The Cat Shelter and The Kenora Fellowship Center.
Rachel Sawatzky is a Beaver Brae student and says they actually expanded their
Youth In Philantropy program this year to include donations for victims of the earthquake in
Haiti
The Kenora Sexual Assault Center, the Breakfast for Learning program at Pope John Paul
School, the Lake of the Woods Railroaders Muesum and Iggy's Wildlife Rehabilitation
Center were also presented cheques yesterday.
Opposition to Forest Tenure Changes
The proposed forest tenure reform is the final nail in the forest industry's coffin.
That's the feeling of the Ontario Forest Industry Association.
President Jamie Lim says the government believes it's consulting stakeholders; but it's not.
The first public consultation session was held yesterday in Thunder Bay and another
one will be taking place today in Dryden.
Kenora Mayor Len Compton will be attending today's session.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
NOMA opposed to Endangered Species Act
It's launched a letter writing campaign to exempt the industry from more red tape under the Endangered Species Act.
NOMA President Anne Krassilowsky says that forest companies are already required to file to identify threatened and endangered species when they prepare a Forest Management Plan.
NOMA has launched an email writing campaign to lobby the government on the issue.
Boreal Forest to be protected in the North
Canada's top pulp and paper companies and environmental groups who spent years fighting them have united in an unlikely alliance to protect 72 million hectares of threatened boreal forests in northern Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia.
Forest Products Association of Canada president Avrim Lazar says Canada's troubled forest industry will adapt to a marketplace that is getting "more environmentally progressive."
Lazar said the former foes were able to trust each other after realizing the importance of compromise -- that loggers need trees to make a living, but that endangered caribou need a habitat to live.
Forest Products Association of Canada president Avrim Lazar says Canada's troubled forest industry will adapt to a marketplace that is getting "more environmentally progressive."
Lazar said the former foes were able to trust each other after realizing the importance of compromise -- that loggers need trees to make a living, but that endangered caribou need a habitat to live.
NorWOSSA Soccer on tap today
The Broncos are hosting Dryden and Fort Frances in the final round-robin games before the finals next week.
Both Beaver Brae's boys and girls team are in second place in the
standings after the first two mini-tournaments.
The Broncos girls have seven points with two wins, a tie and a loss.
The Beaver Brae Boys have four points with one win, two losses and
a tie.
The Broncos take on Dryden this morning at 9:00 at the Tom Nabb Soccer
Complex.
In a Funk over Cigarette Butts
No butts about it.
There are too many discarded cigarettes littering Kenora streets.
That was the message by the Kenora Business Improvement Zone to city
council this week.
Kerick Funk is president of the BIZ and says something needs to be done
to address the unsightly litter.
Funk says he would also like the city to take action on the issue and come up with a plan to removing cigarette butts from local streets and sidewalks.
Committees on the Chopping Block
City council has approved the elimination of a dozen standing committees.
Chief Administrative officer Bill Presentanz says they decided to cull committees that had become dormant or which have seen their duties transferred to other committees.
Some of the committees on the chopping block are the Kenora Health Providers,
the Kenora Port Authority, the Native Street Patrol Advisory committee and
the Sign Committee.
Forest Tenure meetings this week
The Ontario Government's forest tenure reform will be the main topic of discussion at a pair of meetings
this week.
The first public hearing will take place in Thunder Bay today before moving to Dryden tomorrow.
Harold Wilson is the chief operating officer of the Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce and says they're not sure what to make of the new initiative.
The Ontario Forest Industries Association has been very vocal against the plan and feels it will jeopardize the future of the industry.
this week.
The first public hearing will take place in Thunder Bay today before moving to Dryden tomorrow.
Harold Wilson is the chief operating officer of the Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce and says they're not sure what to make of the new initiative.
The Ontario Forest Industries Association has been very vocal against the plan and feels it will jeopardize the future of the industry.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Council says no to re-zoning for Ambulence Base
Last night, Kenora City Council voted unanimously to turn down a re-zoning application for property on Railway Street to accommodate a new land ambulence base.
The property owner can appeal council's decision to the Ontario Muncipal Board, but there's been no indication yet from the District Services Board what its plans are now.
The board has been looking for a suitable location for a new land ambulence
base for several years now, with little success.
Save our tree
tree in the Rideout area.
The eastern Cottonwood is growing in an alley between Mascott and Regina Avenues and is believed to be one of the largest trees of its kind in the province.
The cottonwood is over 300 years old and some residents in the neighborhood
are concerned about its future.
The Heritage Committee says while buildings can and have been designated
natural landscapes haven't received similar treatment yet.
Board members are now looking at options for protecting the tree.
More fires for the northwest
With the warmer weather comes an increased chance of forest fires.
The Ministry of Natural Resources is reminding the public to take precautions when burning outdoors.
Fire Information Officer Mitch Miller says crews responded to five new fires over past couple or
days.
The weather forecast is calling for hot dry weather for the next two weeks and MNR officials are keeping a close watch on the local conditions.
Fire causes extensive damage in Pinawa
Fire has caused about 1.5 million dollars damage to a motel in Pinawa, Manitoba.
The blaze broke out around 8:30 yesterday morning in the bar area of the building
and spread quickly.
While no-one was injured, police say two people were forced to flee the premises.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Manitoba Fire Commissioner's
Office and the RCMP.
Pinawa is located about 100 kilometers northwest of Kenora.
The blaze broke out around 8:30 yesterday morning in the bar area of the building
and spread quickly.
While no-one was injured, police say two people were forced to flee the premises.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Manitoba Fire Commissioner's
Office and the RCMP.
Pinawa is located about 100 kilometers northwest of Kenora.
Health Coalition releases Hospital report
A report on rural and northern Ontario hospitals was released yesterday.
The Ontario Health Coalition penned the document that deals with health services.
Coalition spokesperson Barb Maki says they want to ensure all health services in the region stay intact.
Maki says the local health coalition will keep an eye out for any possible service cuts to emergency departments or other areas of care.
Sioux Narrows goes solar
That's the new mantra of the Town of Sioux Narrows/Nestor Falls.
Its launching three solar energy projects this year.
Mayor Bill Thompson says its a good deal for his community.
Thompson says the whole project will cost about 500 thousand
dollars, but will have a pay back period of about six years.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Road Safety Week
National Road Safety Week starts today and OPP across our Region will be out in full force ensuring that drivers follow the rules.
16 people were killed on Northwestern Ontario roads last year and 364 injuries were reported.
9 people have died as a result of crashes on roads patrolled by OPP in the Northwest Region this year.
Land Ambulence Base in Kenora debated
The Kenora District Services Board will wait until Monday's Kenora City Council meeting before reacting to the long-standing land ambulance base debate in the community.
The issue was briefly discussed at the public meeting in Dryden Thursday.
Some Board members voiced frustration stating the issue has been on-going for roughly 9-years and has cost the Board 100-thousand dollars and that Kenora has been given enough time to make a decision.
They went on to add that the Services Board has done its due diligence in finding a suitable location and one member added that if Kenora Council can't make up its mind the Board will just build the base in unincorporat territory.
CAO Stain Leaf and Kenora Councilor Rory McMillan warned that both sides have concerns and need to sit down to discuss the issue.
The issue was briefly discussed at the public meeting in Dryden Thursday.
Some Board members voiced frustration stating the issue has been on-going for roughly 9-years and has cost the Board 100-thousand dollars and that Kenora has been given enough time to make a decision.
They went on to add that the Services Board has done its due diligence in finding a suitable location and one member added that if Kenora Council can't make up its mind the Board will just build the base in unincorporat territory.
CAO Stain Leaf and Kenora Councilor Rory McMillan warned that both sides have concerns and need to sit down to discuss the issue.
By-Pass Clean-Up completed
It took a lot longer than expected to clean up a chemical spill on
Highway 17-A.
The OPP say a spill of strychnine pellets on the by-pass took over
24 hours to clean up.
The section of the by-pass between the Redditt Road and the Minaki
Highway was finally re-opened around 6:30 Saturday morning.
A Hazmat Unit from Winnipeg was called in deal with the situation.
Police say there was no danger to the public as a result of the spill.
Highway 17-A.
The OPP say a spill of strychnine pellets on the by-pass took over
24 hours to clean up.
The section of the by-pass between the Redditt Road and the Minaki
Highway was finally re-opened around 6:30 Saturday morning.
A Hazmat Unit from Winnipeg was called in deal with the situation.
Police say there was no danger to the public as a result of the spill.
Development Commission releases first quarter report
The Lake of the Woods Development Commission says it has a number of irons in the fire to improve the economy of the City of Kenora.
The Commission made its first quarter report to council last week and chair
Dennis Wallace says they are making positive strides in a number of directions.
He says forestry is still an important industry for Kenora and believes there will be
growth in the value-added sector.
Wallace adds that they have been able to secure a grant for 40 thousand dollars
to bring back a full winter carnival to the city next year.
Grassy Narrows wins more support
Domtar spokesperson Keith Ley says they do not procure wood from the Grassy Narrows traditional territory, nor do they intend to procure wood until the outstanding issues are resolved.
Domtar is the third major forest products company in the region to commit not to source wood from Grassy Narrows traditional territory following Boise‘s commitment in February 2008, and AbitibiBowater‘s commitment in June 2008.
However, Earthroots says Weyerhaeuser continues to press for access to wood regardless of the outcome of ongoing negotiations between Grassy Narrows and the province.
Friday, May 14, 2010
No Subsidy for Tournament for Cancer
Organizers of a summer hockey tournament which raises money for the
Canadian Cancer Society won't be getting any financial support from
the City of Kenora.
The second annual Kenora Hockey Kids for Cancer tournament will take place
at the Keewatin Arena at the end of August.
Organizers had requested a break on ice rentals for the weekend, but council
says at123 dollars an hour, the city already subsidizes ice times.
Councillors say even though the event is for a good cause, if they gave them
a break on ice rentals, they'd have to do the same thing for other groups.
Canadian Cancer Society won't be getting any financial support from
the City of Kenora.
The second annual Kenora Hockey Kids for Cancer tournament will take place
at the Keewatin Arena at the end of August.
Organizers had requested a break on ice rentals for the weekend, but council
says at123 dollars an hour, the city already subsidizes ice times.
Councillors say even though the event is for a good cause, if they gave them
a break on ice rentals, they'd have to do the same thing for other groups.
Rec. Center Tender to be finalized
A local company has won a bid to install new sewer and water lines and a storm drain system
at the Kenora Rec. Center.
Norquip Construction had the lowest of four bids for the job at just over 600
thousand dollars.
The infrastructure work has to be completed before the parking lot at the Rec. Center
can finally be paved.
Councillor Dave McCann says the tender is about 250 thousand dollars lower than
any other bid on the project.
Chemical Spill on the By-Pass
A chemical spill is expected to keep the Kenora By-Pass closed for several more
hours.
A two vehicle collision involving a couple of tractor trailor units near the
intersection of Highway 17-A and the Minaki Highway took place around
2:00 this morning.
The OPP says both drivers sustained only minor injuries.
Miller Environmental Services has been called in to help clean up the
chemicals spilled in the collision.
Police says the section of the By-Pass between the Redditt Road and the
west entrance could be closed until at least noon today.
hours.
A two vehicle collision involving a couple of tractor trailor units near the
intersection of Highway 17-A and the Minaki Highway took place around
2:00 this morning.
The OPP says both drivers sustained only minor injuries.
Miller Environmental Services has been called in to help clean up the
chemicals spilled in the collision.
Police says the section of the By-Pass between the Redditt Road and the
west entrance could be closed until at least noon today.
Environmental Education being encouraged
The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board is one of the first boards
in northern Ontario to adopt an Environmental Education Policy.
Trustees unanimously approved the policy at this week's board meeting.
Environmental Education leader, Kathy Boone says they've had a lot of
input.
Boone says the goal of the policy is to increase awareness and knowlege
and incorporate environmental education into the curriculum.
in northern Ontario to adopt an Environmental Education Policy.
Trustees unanimously approved the policy at this week's board meeting.
Environmental Education leader, Kathy Boone says they've had a lot of
input.
Boone says the goal of the policy is to increase awareness and knowlege
and incorporate environmental education into the curriculum.
Services Board Budget Finally Passed
It took 6-months, 4-drafts and another 5-hours of debate yesterday, but the Kenora District Services Board has finally agreed on an acceptable 2010 budget.
After being instructed in March to trim the budget by 1-percent, staff came back with a document which included signficiant cuts in child care, ontario works, social housing and land ambulance.
Sten Lif is the Chief Adminstrative Officer of the Services Board andsays Municipal Leaders agreed to maintain services.
If Board members had approved the March 18th budget, communities would have had to shell out roughly 200-thousand dollars less for social services.
After being instructed in March to trim the budget by 1-percent, staff came back with a document which included signficiant cuts in child care, ontario works, social housing and land ambulance.
Sten Lif is the Chief Adminstrative Officer of the Services Board andsays Municipal Leaders agreed to maintain services.
If Board members had approved the March 18th budget, communities would have had to shell out roughly 200-thousand dollars less for social services.
Accident closes By-Pass
The OPP say a section of the Kenora By-Pass could be closed for several more hours
this morning.
A two vehicle collision took place near the intersection of Highway 17-A and the Minaki Highway
around 2:00 this morning.
Police say both drivers sustained minor injuries and an investigation into the cause of
the accident is continuing.
Currently the by-pass is closed at the Redditt Road and the west entrance to Highway 17-A.
The OPP say that section of the by-pass may be closed until at least noon.
this morning.
A two vehicle collision took place near the intersection of Highway 17-A and the Minaki Highway
around 2:00 this morning.
Police say both drivers sustained minor injuries and an investigation into the cause of
the accident is continuing.
Currently the by-pass is closed at the Redditt Road and the west entrance to Highway 17-A.
The OPP say that section of the by-pass may be closed until at least noon.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Sioux Narrow/Nestor Falls Budget
Residents of Sioux Narrows/Nestor Falls can expect to pay a bit more in taxes
this year.
The town council recently passed its 2010 budget and is looking at an overall
increase of about one percent.
Mayor Bill Thompson says while they have been able to hold the line on municipal
spending, other costs are beyond their control.
Thompson says while the education portion on the tax bill has gone down,
assessments in his community are up about seven percent, so that has offset
any savings local property owners might have enjoyed.
this year.
The town council recently passed its 2010 budget and is looking at an overall
increase of about one percent.
Mayor Bill Thompson says while they have been able to hold the line on municipal
spending, other costs are beyond their control.
Thompson says while the education portion on the tax bill has gone down,
assessments in his community are up about seven percent, so that has offset
any savings local property owners might have enjoyed.
Training and Education Strategy
The City of Kenora is being asked to embrace higher learning in order to
build out local economy.
An Education and Training Strategy has been developed by the Lake of the Woods
Development Commission.
Chair of the sub-committee, Geordie McEwan says there are lots of opportunities
in the education field.
McEwan says they have hired an intern to do a study on the opportunities
in Education and Training.
That report is scheduled to be presented to council in September.
build out local economy.
An Education and Training Strategy has been developed by the Lake of the Woods
Development Commission.
Chair of the sub-committee, Geordie McEwan says there are lots of opportunities
in the education field.
McEwan says they have hired an intern to do a study on the opportunities
in Education and Training.
That report is scheduled to be presented to council in September.
Hudson's Bay Presentation at Museum
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.
Gordon says the material dates back to the company's incorporation in 1670.
A presentation will be made tonight a the Lake of the Woods Museum.
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.
Gordon says the material dates back to the company's incorporation in 1670.
A presentation will be made tonight a the Lake of the Woods Museum.
Local High Schools Rated
High schools in the Kenora-Rainy River district are ranked well below many of their counterparts in southern Ontario according to the Fraser Institute's latest study.
The Conservative Think-Tank ranks schools based on the results of annual provincial testing.
Spokesperson Michael Thompson says its fair comparison.
St. Thomas Aquinas School in Kenora was in the middle of the pack at 350 out of 722 schools rated.
Beaver Brae placed 640th overall.
The Conservative Think-Tank ranks schools based on the results of annual provincial testing.
Spokesperson Michael Thompson says its fair comparison.
St. Thomas Aquinas School in Kenora was in the middle of the pack at 350 out of 722 schools rated.
Beaver Brae placed 640th overall.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Novak and RBC Hockey Leader
Kenora Minor Hockey is 10 thousand dollars richer thanks to a long time
coach.
Doug Novak has been recognized as an RBC local hockey leader.
Novak has coached in Kenora for the past 22 year and says its a
real privalege to be given the honor.
Novak is the third Kenora resident to win an RBC Local Hockey Leader.
He'll pick up his award at a ceremony at the Hockey Hall of Fame in June.
coach.
Doug Novak has been recognized as an RBC local hockey leader.
Novak has coached in Kenora for the past 22 year and says its a
real privalege to be given the honor.
Novak is the third Kenora resident to win an RBC Local Hockey Leader.
He'll pick up his award at a ceremony at the Hockey Hall of Fame in June.
Second Victim in Lac Seul Identified
Sioux Lookout OPP and Lac Seul Police have released the name of the man found dead in a Whitefish Bay home on Sunday.
54-year-old George Carpenter of Lac Seul has been identified as the victim.
OPP were called to assist Lac Seul Police in response to a report that someone was firing shots within the First Nation.
39-year-old Brian Gray was fatally shot during an "interaction" with officers in the incident.
Police continue to investigate the death of Carpenter.
The SIU is looking into the death of Gray.
54-year-old George Carpenter of Lac Seul has been identified as the victim.
OPP were called to assist Lac Seul Police in response to a report that someone was firing shots within the First Nation.
39-year-old Brian Gray was fatally shot during an "interaction" with officers in the incident.
Police continue to investigate the death of Carpenter.
The SIU is looking into the death of Gray.
Land Ambulence base de-railed?
The on-going saga of trying to find a location for a new land ambulence
base in Kenora looks like its going to continue.
The city's planning department has filed a report recommending against
a re-zoning application for some property on Railway Street.
The Kenora District Services Board wants to build the land ambulence base
on some vacant land next to the CP rail tracks.
But the planning report lists a number of concerns, including the fact
the land lies alongside a dangerous goods corridor.
Council will vote on the recommendation next Monday, but the services
board has the right to appeal any decision within 20 days to the Ontario
Municipal Board.
base in Kenora looks like its going to continue.
The city's planning department has filed a report recommending against
a re-zoning application for some property on Railway Street.
The Kenora District Services Board wants to build the land ambulence base
on some vacant land next to the CP rail tracks.
But the planning report lists a number of concerns, including the fact
the land lies alongside a dangerous goods corridor.
Council will vote on the recommendation next Monday, but the services
board has the right to appeal any decision within 20 days to the Ontario
Municipal Board.
School Closure report submitted
A report on school closures in the City of Kenora won't be dealt with
until the fall.
The final recommendations from the Kenora Accommodation Review
Advisory Committee was presented to trustees with the Keewatin Patricia
District School Board last night.
Dean Carrie is the Superintendant of Business and says under provincial
regulations trustees can't take any action on the report for at least 60 days.
The report has a number of recommendations that can be implemented
over the next 10 years.
That includes short term ideas, like moving the board offices in Kenora into
Lakewood School.
until the fall.
The final recommendations from the Kenora Accommodation Review
Advisory Committee was presented to trustees with the Keewatin Patricia
District School Board last night.
Dean Carrie is the Superintendant of Business and says under provincial
regulations trustees can't take any action on the report for at least 60 days.
The report has a number of recommendations that can be implemented
over the next 10 years.
That includes short term ideas, like moving the board offices in Kenora into
Lakewood School.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Fatal Accident Update
A 47 year old man from eastern Ontario is dead following a single
vehicle accident on the Kenora By-Pass.
The OPP says an eastbound tractor-trailor unit left the highway
and came to rest down an embankment around 3:00 this morning.
After leaving the road, the semi caught fire and was totally destroyed.
The Longbow Lake Volunteer Fire Department helped extinguish the
blaze.
Police say the driver of the rig was not able to get out of the cab.
The driver was from Cardinal, Ontario, but his name has not been
released.
vehicle accident on the Kenora By-Pass.
The OPP says an eastbound tractor-trailor unit left the highway
and came to rest down an embankment around 3:00 this morning.
After leaving the road, the semi caught fire and was totally destroyed.
The Longbow Lake Volunteer Fire Department helped extinguish the
blaze.
Police say the driver of the rig was not able to get out of the cab.
The driver was from Cardinal, Ontario, but his name has not been
released.
OPP investigate fata accident
Still not a lot of details about a fatal accident on the Kenora By-Pass this
morning.
The OPP say a semi tractor trailor unit drove off Highway 17-A just west of the
junction of Highway 17 early this morning.
The east bound rig came to rest off the road and caught fire.
The OPP's Technical Traffic Unit has been called in to help
investigate the cause of the crash.
morning.
The OPP say a semi tractor trailor unit drove off Highway 17-A just west of the
junction of Highway 17 early this morning.
The east bound rig came to rest off the road and caught fire.
The OPP's Technical Traffic Unit has been called in to help
investigate the cause of the crash.
SIU releases name of deceased
The province's Special Investigations Unit has
released the name of a man who was killed in a weekend incident
involving police in northwestern Ontario.
The agency says 39-year-old Brian Gray was fatally shot Sunday
during an ``interaction'' with provincial police officers in
Whitefish Bay.
Gray later died of his injuries in hospital.
Police, meanwhile, continue to investigate a separate but related
death at the same residence in the community north of Dryden.
The circumstances behind the death of the second person have not
been released, nor have that person's name or age.
released the name of a man who was killed in a weekend incident
involving police in northwestern Ontario.
The agency says 39-year-old Brian Gray was fatally shot Sunday
during an ``interaction'' with provincial police officers in
Whitefish Bay.
Gray later died of his injuries in hospital.
Police, meanwhile, continue to investigate a separate but related
death at the same residence in the community north of Dryden.
The circumstances behind the death of the second person have not
been released, nor have that person's name or age.
OPP Hiring Youth
Kenora OPP are looking to hire some young people this summer.
The local detachment recently received funding from the Ministry of Children and Youth Services to hire three youth for the Youth in Policing Initiative.
An information session for interested persons will be held Tuesday May 18th at 7pm at the OPP detachement on the by pass.
The local detachment recently received funding from the Ministry of Children and Youth Services to hire three youth for the Youth in Policing Initiative.
An information session for interested persons will be held Tuesday May 18th at 7pm at the OPP detachement on the by pass.
Wage Freeze Kenora
Managers and non-unionized staff at City Hall can expect to see their salaries
frozen this year.
Following the directive from the provincial government, there will be no increases
in 2010 from the 2009 salary grid.
However, based on performance, non-union staff can still move up in the grid this
year.
The freeze in salaries will affect about 24 employees of the City of Kenora.
Council says its also prepared to conduct a review of the salary grid for non-unionized staff sometime this year.
frozen this year.
Following the directive from the provincial government, there will be no increases
in 2010 from the 2009 salary grid.
However, based on performance, non-union staff can still move up in the grid this
year.
The freeze in salaries will affect about 24 employees of the City of Kenora.
Council says its also prepared to conduct a review of the salary grid for non-unionized staff sometime this year.
City Of Kenora Positions Changed
Some minor staffing changes are being made at City Hill in the wake of
the appointment of Karen Brown as the new Chief Administrative Officer.
Brown is the Chief Financial Officer, but instead of finding a replacement
for her, she says they decided to shuffle some of the duties within the
department.
Charlotte Edie is going to be appointed as Municipal Treasurer.
She had been the deputy treasurer and the city's tax collector.
Bill Ranger will take over from Edie to become the Deputy Treasurer.
and Pat Geisel will assume the duties as the municipal tax collector.
the appointment of Karen Brown as the new Chief Administrative Officer.
Brown is the Chief Financial Officer, but instead of finding a replacement
for her, she says they decided to shuffle some of the duties within the
department.
Charlotte Edie is going to be appointed as Municipal Treasurer.
She had been the deputy treasurer and the city's tax collector.
Bill Ranger will take over from Edie to become the Deputy Treasurer.
and Pat Geisel will assume the duties as the municipal tax collector.
City of Kenora Bridge Inspection
The City of Kenora can expect to get some money from the provincial
government this year to help inspect municipal bridges.
Municipal Engineer, Marco Vogrig says the Ontario Good Roads Association
had lobbied for the funding and the city is eligible for up to 5 thousan dollars.
He says that will help offset some of the costs incurred by the city this year
for its annual inspection program.
government this year to help inspect municipal bridges.
Municipal Engineer, Marco Vogrig says the Ontario Good Roads Association
had lobbied for the funding and the city is eligible for up to 5 thousan dollars.
He says that will help offset some of the costs incurred by the city this year
for its annual inspection program.
Big Green Clean
It's the third year for the Big Green Clean in Kenora.
This year's event is going to be bigger and better with a free pancake breakfast and a flea market.
City of Kenora Operations Chair Dave McCann explains what areas of the City will be spruced up.
The Big Green Clean starts at 8am on Sunday at the Recreation Centre.
This year's event is going to be bigger and better with a free pancake breakfast and a flea market.
City of Kenora Operations Chair Dave McCann explains what areas of the City will be spruced up.
The Big Green Clean starts at 8am on Sunday at the Recreation Centre.
Forest Fire Update
The forest fire hazard in northwestern Ontario is edging up but still remains low.
The Ministry of Natural Resources reports that three new fires were reported in the region on the weekend.
Portions of Thunder Bay and Nipigon districts are under a moderate hazard.
The Ministry of Natural Resources reports that three new fires were reported in the region on the weekend.
Portions of Thunder Bay and Nipigon districts are under a moderate hazard.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Aboriginal Affairs Working Group
An aboriginal affairs working group has come out with a set of recommendations for Canada's Prime Minister and Provincial Premiers.
The group made up of first nations leaders and ministers of aboriginal affairs has come up with plans to close the graduation and income gap between first nations and non aboriginals.
Ontario's Aboriginal Affairs Minister Chris Bentley says Northern Ontario will see some benefits.
The working group also pledged to end violence against Aboriginal women and girls.
The group made up of first nations leaders and ministers of aboriginal affairs has come up with plans to close the graduation and income gap between first nations and non aboriginals.
Ontario's Aboriginal Affairs Minister Chris Bentley says Northern Ontario will see some benefits.
The working group also pledged to end violence against Aboriginal women and girls.
Social Housing Wait Times
The Ontario non-profit Housing Association says wait lists for people seeking subsidizing housing continues to grow.
The association says the Kenora District has 546 people on waiting list compared with 452 last year.
But Executive Director Sharad Kerur says it may be a lot higher.
According to the Association, people are waiting up to two years for housing.
The association says the Kenora District has 546 people on waiting list compared with 452 last year.
But Executive Director Sharad Kerur says it may be a lot higher.
According to the Association, people are waiting up to two years for housing.
Whitefish Bay Death SIU
Five investigators from the province's Special Investigations Unit are probing the circumstances surrounding the death of a 39-year-old man in Whitefish Bay.
The SIU says provincial police officers in Sioux Lookout were requested to assist Lac Seul police officers at a Whitefish Bay residence on Sunday morning.
The SIU says there was an interaction with a man, and he was shot.
He was taken to hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
OPP say a seperate death occurred in the home.
No name has been released.
Investigators are asking any witnesses to contact the unit.
The SIU says provincial police officers in Sioux Lookout were requested to assist Lac Seul police officers at a Whitefish Bay residence on Sunday morning.
The SIU says there was an interaction with a man, and he was shot.
He was taken to hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
OPP say a seperate death occurred in the home.
No name has been released.
Investigators are asking any witnesses to contact the unit.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Hospital expects small surplus
Members of the Lake of the Woods Hospital Board will have to wait until next month to find out if they managed to stay in the black this year.
The hospital's year end was March 31st, but Chief Executive Officer Marc Belcaen says they are still finalizing their figures.
He suggests the hospital should finish with a small surplus,but just how large the surplus is still to be determined.
Belcaen says their auditor is currently going over their books and a final report on their finances will be presented at their annual general meeting next month.
Robber caught red-handed
A 39 year old man was caught red-handed trying to rob a store in downtown Kenora.
The OPP say one of their officers noticed an altercation between a store employee and another person last night.
Police approached the store and noticed the suspect was holdinga knife and was trying to commit a robbery.
The officer intervened and arrested the suspect.
Steve Jackson has been charged with robbery, wearing a disguise with the intent to commit a criminal offense and possessionof narcotics.
The OPP say one of their officers noticed an altercation between a store employee and another person last night.
Police approached the store and noticed the suspect was holdinga knife and was trying to commit a robbery.
The officer intervened and arrested the suspect.
Steve Jackson has been charged with robbery, wearing a disguise with the intent to commit a criminal offense and possessionof narcotics.
We're #121
Kenora's ranking in the annual Best Places to live index continues to fall.
The city is rated 121st out of 179 communities across the country by Money Sense Magazine.
Kenora's standing has fallen from 37th place just three years ago.
The survey looks at issues such as income, housing costs, crime, health, lifestyle and weather.
Kenora falls just behind Montreal, but just ahead of Kentville, Nova Scotia in the annual survey.
The city is rated 121st out of 179 communities across the country by Money Sense Magazine.
Kenora's standing has fallen from 37th place just three years ago.
The survey looks at issues such as income, housing costs, crime, health, lifestyle and weather.
Kenora falls just behind Montreal, but just ahead of Kentville, Nova Scotia in the annual survey.
Energy Credit Criticized
The McGuinty governments' Northern Energy Credit is being called an insult.
Randy Hillier, the Progressive Conservatives' Northern Development critic, says the program is laughable.
He says thats because 200 dollars is the most any family will get.
Hillier says in some parts of the north this credit won't even cover one month of the HST
Hillier says in some parts of the north this credit won't even cover one month of the HST
More on Couchiching Toll Booth
The federal government is responding to Couchiching First Nations plans to set up a toll booth later this month.
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.
But Yao says an open dialogue is much more constructive and effective in dealing with the band's concerns.
The band council held a community meeting this week to update residents on their plans for the May 21st toll.
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.
But Yao says an open dialogue is much more constructive and effective in dealing with the band's concerns.
The band council held a community meeting this week to update residents on their plans for the May 21st toll.
Education Week
Education Week is coming to a close for the Keewatin Patricia District School Board.
Director of Education Jack McMaster says they met with Southern Ontario School Board professionals and told them about their oral language program.
McMaster says he is also taking time during Education Week to thank school board staff.
McMaster says he is also taking time during Education Week to thank school board staff.
Fort Frances Escapee back in Custody
The 7-day search for a wanted Emo man has ended.
OPP arrested Matthew Meyers yesterday without any difficulties.
The man was located in the Clearwater Lake area, about 30-kilometres north of Emo.
Police had been looking for Meyers since April 29th when he escaped from the Fort Frances OPP Detachment during a criminal investigation.
He remains in custody and faces possession of stolen property, breach of probation, assault, uttering threats and escaping custody.
OPP arrested Matthew Meyers yesterday without any difficulties.
The man was located in the Clearwater Lake area, about 30-kilometres north of Emo.
Police had been looking for Meyers since April 29th when he escaped from the Fort Frances OPP Detachment during a criminal investigation.
He remains in custody and faces possession of stolen property, breach of probation, assault, uttering threats and escaping custody.
More Presciption Drugs Seized
A 29 year old resident of the New Osnaburgh First Nation has been arrested on drug charges.
The Combined Forces Drug Unit arrested a man in Hillcrest Park in Thunder Bay early Thursday morning.
Police say they seized about 100 oxycodone pills, almost 300 percocets, and about 65 hundred dollars in cash.
The street value of the drugs is estimated at about 16 thousand dollars.
During their search of the vehicle, officers also located a 30-30 rifle, amunition and a machete.
The Combined Forces Drug Unit arrested a man in Hillcrest Park in Thunder Bay early Thursday morning.
Police say they seized about 100 oxycodone pills, almost 300 percocets, and about 65 hundred dollars in cash.
The street value of the drugs is estimated at about 16 thousand dollars.
During their search of the vehicle, officers also located a 30-30 rifle, amunition and a machete.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
SIU Officer Cleared
The Ontario Special Investigations Unit has cleared an OPP officer
of any wrong-doing in an injury sustained by a person who was in custody
at the Kenora Detachment.
SIU director Ian Scott says there are no reasonable grounds to
believe the local officer committed any criminal offense after
34 year old Tony Kakegamic injured his index finger while being
place in the cell.
The report says Kakegamic tried to open the cell door several times
while officers attempted to lock the cell.
In the process, Kakegamic's left index finger was caught between
the door and the frame, causing the tip to be severed.
Scott concludes that the cause of the injury was the result of an accident
in which the officer had no intention of hurting the complainant.
of any wrong-doing in an injury sustained by a person who was in custody
at the Kenora Detachment.
SIU director Ian Scott says there are no reasonable grounds to
believe the local officer committed any criminal offense after
34 year old Tony Kakegamic injured his index finger while being
place in the cell.
The report says Kakegamic tried to open the cell door several times
while officers attempted to lock the cell.
In the process, Kakegamic's left index finger was caught between
the door and the frame, causing the tip to be severed.
Scott concludes that the cause of the injury was the result of an accident
in which the officer had no intention of hurting the complainant.
Abitibi Land Sale
A Kenora-area developer is hoping to finalize the sale of Abitibi lands in the city by the end of June.John Gale has been negotiating with AbitibiBowater for months to purchase all their property within city limits.
The original deadline to complete the deal was March 31st, but Gale says both sides agreed to extend the purchase date to June 30th.
He says its been a very complicated deal involving many different parcels land scattered throughout the city.
Gale adds that there are companies that are eager to get on the old mill property to set up shop.
Truth and Reconciliation
The Head of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission is making an appearance in Sioux Lookout to hear stories from former students of the Indian Residential School system.
Justice Murray Sinclair will stop in the community May 12th and 13th.
Garnet Angeconeb is the Co-Chair of the Sioux Lookout Coalition for Healing and Reconciliation and notes this region is fortunate to have Sinclair visit.
He notes it will give families, staff and survivers a chance to open up dialouge in order to move on.
Justice Murray Sinclair will stop in the community May 12th and 13th.
Garnet Angeconeb is the Co-Chair of the Sioux Lookout Coalition for Healing and Reconciliation and notes this region is fortunate to have Sinclair visit.
He notes it will give families, staff and survivers a chance to open up dialouge in order to move on.
Northern Ontario Energy Credit
Not all northerners will get energy credit cheques from the McGuinty government in the fall.
The money is strictly for low and middle income people.
Speaking in Thunder Bay Dwight Duncan says the credit is to make up for higher energy costs
Expect those cheques to roll out in November.
The money is strictly for low and middle income people.
Speaking in Thunder Bay Dwight Duncan says the credit is to make up for higher energy costs
Expect those cheques to roll out in November.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Abitibi land sale still pending
A Kenora-area developer is hoping to finalize the sale of Abitibi lands in the city by the end of June.
John Gale has been negotiating with AbitibiBowater for months to purchase all their property within city limits.
The original deadline to complete the deal was March 31st, but Gale both sides agreed to extend the purchase date to June 30th.
He says its been a very complicated deal involving many different parcels of land scattered throughout the city.
Gale adds that there are companies that are eager to get on the old mill property to set up shop.
John Gale has been negotiating with AbitibiBowater for months to purchase all their property within city limits.
The original deadline to complete the deal was March 31st, but Gale both sides agreed to extend the purchase date to June 30th.
He says its been a very complicated deal involving many different parcels of land scattered throughout the city.
Gale adds that there are companies that are eager to get on the old mill property to set up shop.
Axe intruder injured
A 40-year-old man in northern Ontario --armed with an axe -- came out worse for wear, after going up against-- a vacuum cleaner.
Police say a man in White River was trying to break down a door with the axe.
As the door gave way, a man in the home hurled a vacuum cleaner through the broken door.
The vacuum hit the assailant in the face -- breaking his nose.
The assailant is now in jail.
Police say a man in White River was trying to break down a door with the axe.
As the door gave way, a man in the home hurled a vacuum cleaner through the broken door.
The vacuum hit the assailant in the face -- breaking his nose.
The assailant is now in jail.
Four Kenora Girls at National Aboriginal Hockey Championships
Four Kenora hockey players have helped Team Ontario North to a perfect 3-0 record at the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships.
Melissa White, Robin Houle, Sam Smith and Deborah Kakeway are members of the squad, which finished first in their pool.
The Semi-Finals start tonight with Team Ontario North taking on NorthwestTerritories.
Melissa White, Robin Houle, Sam Smith and Deborah Kakeway are members of the squad, which finished first in their pool.
The Semi-Finals start tonight with Team Ontario North taking on NorthwestTerritories.
Concern about FedNor Funding
A number of concerns are being raised about the FedNor program.A recent study shows the number of approvals for funding have dropped, while the number of applications have increased.
Claude Gravelle is a Sudbury area M.P. and says he's also worriedFedNor funding may be jeopardized by Treasury Board President Stockwell Day.
Gravelle is calling on the federal government to make FedNor an agency of the crown so applications for funding can be processed much faster.
More broadband promised for the North
A Liberal government would bring high speed internet to all of Northern Ontario and the rest of Rural Canada within three years.Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff made the announcement during a tour of the region today.
Ignatieff says high speed internet is vital in increasing national unity.
Ignatieff also says the plan is aimed at improving public services for people in remote areas, allowing them to tap into the digital economy, distance learning and electronic health initiatives, among other things.
Ignatieff also says the plan is aimed at improving public services for people in remote areas, allowing them to tap into the digital economy, distance learning and electronic health initiatives, among other things.
Another Warm Month
This past winter was both warmer and drier than normal in the Kenora area.
Environment Canada has tallied the snowfall figures for the past eight months and meteorologist Chantal Cerney says we got off pretty easy in terms of snowfall.
Cerny adds that the warm weather trend continued in April.
Cerny adds that the warm weather trend continued in April.
The average daily mean temperature last month was 8.1 degrees, which is about 4.5 degrees warmer than normal.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
MP Nicki Ashton visits Kenora
New Democrats in the House of Commons are calling on the federal government to restore funding for the Aboriginal Healing Foundation.
Nicki Ashton is the M.P. for the Churchill Riding in Manitoba and says a total of 134 programs across the country have closed their doors, including a number in northwestern Ontario.
Ashton says the Aboriginal Healing Foundation provided three million dollars a year for programs in the Kenora Riding.
Nicki Ashton is the M.P. for the Churchill Riding in Manitoba and says a total of 134 programs across the country have closed their doors, including a number in northwestern Ontario.
Ashton says the Aboriginal Healing Foundation provided three million dollars a year for programs in the Kenora Riding.
Forest Tenure
The McGuinty government is proposing sweeping changes to the way wood cutting licences are awarded.
Effectively the big forestry giants would have their current licences scrapped and they'd have to start over.
Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle admits the changes are bold.
Public hearings on the proposed changes start in Thunder Bay May the 18th.
Effectively the big forestry giants would have their current licences scrapped and they'd have to start over.
Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle admits the changes are bold.
Public hearings on the proposed changes start in Thunder Bay May the 18th.
Hampton on HST
The harmonized sales tax is getting close to implementation.
Any item that is purchased before the harmonized sales tax comes into effect, but will be used after July 1st will be subject to the extra tax.
Kenora Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says its going to surprise a number of people who thought they dodged the tax by buying before the start date.
Hampton says people are so upset about the tax they are pre planning their funerals just to dodge the extra tax.
Any item that is purchased before the harmonized sales tax comes into effect, but will be used after July 1st will be subject to the extra tax.
Kenora Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says its going to surprise a number of people who thought they dodged the tax by buying before the start date.
Hampton says people are so upset about the tax they are pre planning their funerals just to dodge the extra tax.