Health Unit Encourages Meningitus Vaccinations

Declining vaccination rates are leaving health unit staff concerned of a possible outbreak.

The meningitus vaccine, which is provided in grade 7, protects against the disease which can be fatal.

Manager of Infectous Diseases at the Northwestern Health Unit Donna Stanley says the number of youth being immunized for meningitus has dropped in recent years.

Families with children who haven't gotten the vaccination are asked to make an appointment with their local health unit.

Campbell Defends Budget Vote

Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell is refuting comments that passing of the provincial budget solidified the closing of the area's tourist information centres.

Last week, Conservative M.P.P. Vic Fedeli said there was no effort by the NDP in committee to overturn the closure decision.

Campbell says there wasn't that opportunity.

Campbell claims she was also denied a chance to comment on the budget and the tourism centres because of the antics of Conservatives in the legislature

Dog Owner Speaks Out

The owner of four dogs poisoned last week in Wainwright Township near Dryden is seeking the public's help.

The rottwillers wee fed meatballs which contained strychnine, and two of them died as a result.

Garry Morand is asking that the person or persons responcible come forward.

Anyone with information, please contact OPP or crime stoppers.

Red Lake gets 2.7 Million Dollars from FedNor

Promising developments in the Red Lake Area.

Minister of FedNor Tony Clement and Kenora MP Greg Rickford announced earlier this week that the federal government will be contributing 2.7 million dollars towards a natural gas pipeline project.

The FedNor funding will help bring natural gas services to over 180 local bussinesses within the next 5 years.

The development is estimated to create 120 jobs.

Wray receives provincial honor

A special honour for two area residents.

Seven year-old Red Lake resident Brody Macumber and Al Wray received Fire Safety Awards yesterday at a ceremony in Toronto.

The two were recognized by the Ontario Fire Marshal.

Macumber is credited with helping save the life of his family when a kitchen fire broke out in their home last November.

Wray was thanked for implementing fire safety initiatives in public schools in the Keewatin-Patricia School District.

Ride For Hope Passes Through NWO

All you need is hope.

This is the main message for a group of people from Sandy Lake First Nations.

Ida Fiddler and Megan Anicinabie are two women who are riding to Ottawa to raise awareness about drug abuse and to raise funds for an after-care center.

Fiddler, who is riding for her sister, says they've made a lot of sacrifices but it is all worth it.

Fiddler encourages people to follow them on facebook at Ride For Hope 211, for updates on their journey.