O.P.P Re-open Highway 17 West of Kenroa

O.P.P have re-opened Highway 17 West of Kenora.

The highway was closed just before 12:00 do to multiple accidents int he area.

Constable Dave Cain is advising drivers to avoid highway travel if possible and to use caution on all area roads.

Fort Frances Looks at Town's Economic Future

The mayor of Fort Frances says his town is working diligently to minimize the impact felt by the indefinite idling of the kraft mill and a paper machine at Resolute Forest Products.

Roy Avis says it includes forming a council sub-committee that look at the town's economic future under his direction.

Avis says council's also had talks already with Natural Resources Minister Michael Gravelle; Northern Development Parliamentary Assistant Bill Mauro and company officials.

12 Days of Fire Safety

Kenora's Fire and Emergency Services Department is counting down the 12 days of Christmas.

A new safety campaign is being launched, reminding local residents to be fire smart.

Fire Chief Warren Brinkman says each day of the campaign they will have a new safety tip.

Brinkman says a house fire last week in the Lakeside area is a good reminder to have your chimney inspected, and ensure its clear of any hazards like creosote build-up.

School Board Approves Lakewood Sale

The dream of turning Lakewood School into an adult education center is still alive.

The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board approved the sale of the elementary school to Seven Generations at last night's inaugural board meeting for 1.4 million dollars.

Director of Education, Jack McMaster says he's glad the sale is finally going through.

With the sale of Lakewood, the public school board officially rescinded the closure of Evergreen School.

Instead, Lakewood will close as an elementary school at the end of this school year.

One Day Walk-out by Elementary Teachers Over

Things should almost return back to normal today at local elementary schools.

Members of the EFTO within the Keewatin-Patricia District School Board gathered yesterday at the Government Building in Dryden to protest bill 115, which allows the government to impose a contract.

Local union president Anne Saltel says their message is loud and clear.

A number of students from the Dryden High School skipped class and  were also at the government building supporting the teachers.