The provinces summer jobs for youth program is back.
Northern Development minister Michael Gravelle says the goal this year is to have more students hired.
Employers have until april the 30 to apply for subsidies.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Union Gas Rate Increase
Union Gas Customers in northwestern Ontario can expect to pay more for natural gas next month.
Vanda Wall of the Ontario Energy Board says Union Gas has been given approval to raise rates effective April 1st.
There is also a slight change in the transportation costs.
Vanda Wall of the Ontario Energy Board says Union Gas has been given approval to raise rates effective April 1st.
There is also a slight change in the transportation costs.
Forest Industry Crisis
Forest industry and unions say immediate changes to Employment Insurance rules are needed to help displaced forestry workers.
The Forest Products Sector Council says the sector has bled 100-thousand jobs since 2005 and about 40-thousand are stillunemployed.
The United Steelworkers and the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada suggest the federal and provincial governments have failed to address the scope of the industrycollapse.
But Kenora M-P Greg Rickford say the Harper government hasalready made E-I reforms, citing an extra five weeks of regularbenefits and investments in training as examples.
The Forest Products Sector Council says the sector has bled 100-thousand jobs since 2005 and about 40-thousand are stillunemployed.
The United Steelworkers and the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada suggest the federal and provincial governments have failed to address the scope of the industrycollapse.
But Kenora M-P Greg Rickford say the Harper government hasalready made E-I reforms, citing an extra five weeks of regularbenefits and investments in training as examples.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Missing Man on Lake of the Woods
An American is missing after taking his snowmobile out for a ride on Lake of the Woods.
Kenora OPP received a report of a man going through the ice near Goose Neck Narrows on Lake of the Woods on Sunday.
Police say two men were traveling 13 km north of Morson, when one of the snowmachines went through the ice.
Missing is 68 year old Fred Bisel from Eagle Bend, Minnesota.
OPP Underwater search and Rescue teams will arrive in Kenora today and hope to search the water later this week.
Kenora OPP received a report of a man going through the ice near Goose Neck Narrows on Lake of the Woods on Sunday.
Police say two men were traveling 13 km north of Morson, when one of the snowmachines went through the ice.
Missing is 68 year old Fred Bisel from Eagle Bend, Minnesota.
OPP Underwater search and Rescue teams will arrive in Kenora today and hope to search the water later this week.
NAFN Tournament
Organizers with the North American First Nations Hockey tournament say this year's event is going to be bigger and better than previous years.
Buck Matiowski says the Wauzhigunigum First Nation has put up 20 thousand dollars in guaranteed prize money for first place.
It's the 21st year of the tournament and is held the Easter Long Weekend.
Buck Matiowski says the Wauzhigunigum First Nation has put up 20 thousand dollars in guaranteed prize money for first place.
It's the 21st year of the tournament and is held the Easter Long Weekend.
Alzheimer's Society Executive Director
The Alzheimer Society for Kenora-Rainy River continues its search for a new executive director.
Margaret Schoneville stepped down after 11 years to take on a position with a Manitoba College.
Board Chair Bill Naturkach says they're currently short-listing potential candidates.
Naturkach is encouraged by the strong interest for the position.
Margaret Schoneville stepped down after 11 years to take on a position with a Manitoba College.
Board Chair Bill Naturkach says they're currently short-listing potential candidates.
Naturkach is encouraged by the strong interest for the position.
Poirier running for Mayor
Former Kenora City Councillor Andrew Poirier is the first person to formally file their nomination papers for the municipal election.
Poirier has decided to run for mayor after six years of experience on council.
The deadline to file nomination papers for the upcoming municipal election is September 10th.
Poirier has decided to run for mayor after six years of experience on council.
The deadline to file nomination papers for the upcoming municipal election is September 10th.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Ring of Fire Northern Ontario
First Nations in northern Ontario say they are ending theirblockade of airstrips used by mining companies looking to get at theRing of Fire chromite deposit.
The First Nations will officially end the three-month-longprotest today and say they will work with the province and miningcompanies to ensure their concerns are addressed.
The blockades in the Ring of Fire, 500 kilometres northeast ofThunder Bay, were set up after Marten Falls and Webequie communities said they were not consulted by the mining companies.
The First Nations will officially end the three-month-longprotest today and say they will work with the province and miningcompanies to ensure their concerns are addressed.
The blockades in the Ring of Fire, 500 kilometres northeast ofThunder Bay, were set up after Marten Falls and Webequie communities said they were not consulted by the mining companies.
NAN Women's Conference
The fourth annual Nishnawbe Aski Nation Women's Traning Forum is underway.
Deputy Grand Chief Mike Metatawabin says its an empowering event that gives a voice to NAN women.
Metatawabin says drug and alcohol abuse is deffinately the greatest issue facing his people.
Deputy Grand Chief Mike Metatawabin says its an empowering event that gives a voice to NAN women.
Metatawabin says drug and alcohol abuse is deffinately the greatest issue facing his people.
MNR Bear Wise
A warning from the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Linda Wall of the Bear Wise program says because of the unseasonably warm weather, bears are likely to come out earlier than usual.
She says they'll be scavenging for food and that could mean encountering a bruin in town.
Wall anticipates most of the bears will be younger ones, likely 2-years old.
Linda Wall of the Bear Wise program says because of the unseasonably warm weather, bears are likely to come out earlier than usual.
She says they'll be scavenging for food and that could mean encountering a bruin in town.
Wall anticipates most of the bears will be younger ones, likely 2-years old.
KDSB Budget Defeated
The Kenora District Services Board still doesn't have a 2010 budget.Municipal reps defeated a 50.8-million dollar budget Thursday, prolonging a task that started last September.
Kenora Councilor Rory McMillian says the document will lead to increased costs for his community.
The budget is 2.6-million dollars higher then the one presented in January due to additional uncontrolled costs in Land Ambulance and Ontario Works.The financial document was defeated 5-4, with reps from Dryden, Ear Falls, Ignace and Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls also opposed.
Meanwhile, Staff with the Kenora District Services Board must be thinking a climb up Mount Everest is easier then figuring out a 2010 budget that suites everyone need.
The climb could get a lot more complicated because of Provincial Legislation.
The Board defeated the fiscal document on Thursday and is not scheduled to meet again until May.
However, CAO Stain Leaf says they are required by law to submit a balanced budget to the Provincial Government by March 31.
With no current numbers in front of the Government, Leaf is also concerned that the Board may be ignored when the McGuinty Liberals present their budget later this month.
Kenora Councilor Rory McMillian says the document will lead to increased costs for his community.
The budget is 2.6-million dollars higher then the one presented in January due to additional uncontrolled costs in Land Ambulance and Ontario Works.The financial document was defeated 5-4, with reps from Dryden, Ear Falls, Ignace and Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls also opposed.
Meanwhile, Staff with the Kenora District Services Board must be thinking a climb up Mount Everest is easier then figuring out a 2010 budget that suites everyone need.
The climb could get a lot more complicated because of Provincial Legislation.
The Board defeated the fiscal document on Thursday and is not scheduled to meet again until May.
However, CAO Stain Leaf says they are required by law to submit a balanced budget to the Provincial Government by March 31.
With no current numbers in front of the Government, Leaf is also concerned that the Board may be ignored when the McGuinty Liberals present their budget later this month.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Chalking Tires
The City of Kenora is starting to chalk tires of vehicles parked at metres beyond the posted time limit.
Municipal Spokesperson Heather Kasprick says there will be a 30 day grace period, but by law officers will start enforcing time limits starting April 15th.
People who park for longer than the posted time limit and have plugged the metre; will still get a 10 dollar ticket if they haven't moved from that spot.
Municipal Spokesperson Heather Kasprick says there will be a 30 day grace period, but by law officers will start enforcing time limits starting April 15th.
People who park for longer than the posted time limit and have plugged the metre; will still get a 10 dollar ticket if they haven't moved from that spot.
Hampton Abitibi Dams
Howard Hampton says AbitibiBowater is again looking to sell-off its hydro-electric assets in northern Ontario.
But the M-P-P for Kenora-Rainy River says it shouldn't come as any surprise.
Hampton says a potential sale of the dams could hurt mills access to cheap power, and is calling on the province to prevent a sale from proceeding.
But the M-P-P for Kenora-Rainy River says it shouldn't come as any surprise.
Hampton says a potential sale of the dams could hurt mills access to cheap power, and is calling on the province to prevent a sale from proceeding.
NAN Beardy UN
The Grand Chief of the Nishnawbe-Aski Nation is encouraging the Harper Government to adopt a UN resolution on the rights of aboriginals.
Grand Chief Stan Beardy says Canada is long overdue in signing the declaration.
Beardy says the declaration sets the perametres on how business is done with aboriginals and is vital for the future First Nations people.
Grand Chief Stan Beardy says Canada is long overdue in signing the declaration.
Beardy says the declaration sets the perametres on how business is done with aboriginals and is vital for the future First Nations people.
Drug Seizure
A routine traffic stop lead to a drug seizure in Kenora.
OPP stoped a vehicle on the by pass yesterday and found a large amount of drugs.
Officers seized 11 ecstasy pills, 5.5 grams of marijuana, and a small quantity of cannabis resin.
Quebec residents, 48 year old Daniel Gosselin and 19 year old Gabriel Turgeon are charged with possession of narcotics.
OPP stoped a vehicle on the by pass yesterday and found a large amount of drugs.
Officers seized 11 ecstasy pills, 5.5 grams of marijuana, and a small quantity of cannabis resin.
Quebec residents, 48 year old Daniel Gosselin and 19 year old Gabriel Turgeon are charged with possession of narcotics.
Everton Mining
Everton Resources has completed its winter drill program at its Duport Gold Deposit in Northwestern Ontario.
The four hole drill program is on a piece of property near Shoal Lake and 60 km west of Kenora.
The company says initial results from the drill program are promising and they plan to continue work on the property into the future months.
The four hole drill program is on a piece of property near Shoal Lake and 60 km west of Kenora.
The company says initial results from the drill program are promising and they plan to continue work on the property into the future months.
Police Finger
It's never a good idea to give someone the middle finger, and one Edmonton resident learned the hard way.
OPP officers patrolling the highway yesterday spotted a young man walking along the side of the road waving his hands.
The man then signalled to the officer with a rude hand gesture and proceded to ask for a ride into town.
The police officer obliged and on the trip into town discovered the man had two credit cards that did not belong to him, a stolen GPS, Ipod charger, and black berry.
19 year old Dragutin Cabor has been charged with possession of property obtained by crime.
OPP officers patrolling the highway yesterday spotted a young man walking along the side of the road waving his hands.
The man then signalled to the officer with a rude hand gesture and proceded to ask for a ride into town.
The police officer obliged and on the trip into town discovered the man had two credit cards that did not belong to him, a stolen GPS, Ipod charger, and black berry.
19 year old Dragutin Cabor has been charged with possession of property obtained by crime.
Abitibi Bowater Pensions
The pensions of current workers and retirees at AbitibiBowater are now protected.
It follows a tenative agreement reached between the Canadian Paperworkers Union and the company.
Spokesperson Kim Ginter says the deal will fix the 25 per cent shorfall in the pension plan.
He says the next step is the voting.
Ginter is confident even with this deal, the company will be able to come out of court ordered bankrupcy protection.
It follows a tenative agreement reached between the Canadian Paperworkers Union and the company.
Spokesperson Kim Ginter says the deal will fix the 25 per cent shorfall in the pension plan.
He says the next step is the voting.
Ginter is confident even with this deal, the company will be able to come out of court ordered bankrupcy protection.
City Parking Meters
The City of Kenora is changing the way it charges for parking.
1 hour parking metres on Main Street will now hold 2 hours worth of change.
Councillor Rory McMillan says the move will allow customers to enjoy their time downtown.
The four hour metres by the Best Western and the three hour metres on the harbourfront will stay the same.
1 hour parking metres on Main Street will now hold 2 hours worth of change.
Councillor Rory McMillan says the move will allow customers to enjoy their time downtown.
The four hour metres by the Best Western and the three hour metres on the harbourfront will stay the same.
All Day Kindergarten
Evergreen and Pinewood School are preparing to offer the public school board's first all day full-day kindergarten program.
Assistant to the Director of Education Caryl Hron says so far they have 20 students signed up for the inaugral class.
Parents interested in signing their kids up for the all day kindergarten classes in Kenora and Dryden can log onto the board's website at www.kpdsb.on.ca
Assistant to the Director of Education Caryl Hron says so far they have 20 students signed up for the inaugral class.
Parents interested in signing their kids up for the all day kindergarten classes in Kenora and Dryden can log onto the board's website at www.kpdsb.on.ca
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
New Video on web portal
The City of Kenora is promoting itself through a new video posted on the Kenora.ca web portal.
Economic Development Officer Jennifer Findlay says they followed in the foot steps of other cities and decided to give prospective visitors a taste of Kenora in video form.
Findlay says they'll be tracking how many people watch the video and where the viewers are from.
Economic Development Officer Jennifer Findlay says they followed in the foot steps of other cities and decided to give prospective visitors a taste of Kenora in video form.
Findlay says they'll be tracking how many people watch the video and where the viewers are from.
MNR Minister visits NWO
The province's new Natural Resources Minister says she's nothurt by recent criticism by Grand Council Treaty #3.
The native group has accused the McGuinty Government offailing to consult with them on natural resources issues inthis region.
Linda Jaffrey attended a signing ceremony with Treaty Threeon Friday and says she's not upset with the comments.
Jaffrey admits she's still trying to get up to speed on all thefiles in her ministry and isn't sure when a Co-Operative ForestryLicence for the Whiskey Jack and Kenora forests will be finalized.
The native group has accused the McGuinty Government offailing to consult with them on natural resources issues inthis region.
Linda Jaffrey attended a signing ceremony with Treaty Threeon Friday and says she's not upset with the comments.
Jaffrey admits she's still trying to get up to speed on all thefiles in her ministry and isn't sure when a Co-Operative ForestryLicence for the Whiskey Jack and Kenora forests will be finalized.
Early Fire Season
Spring is just around the corner and so is forest fire season.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says it's monitoring the melting snow and drying forests across the Region.
Debbie MacLean says it's been a dry winter and it could be a dry spring if the trend continues.
She says that could mean an early start to the forest fire season, which officially begins April 1st.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says it's monitoring the melting snow and drying forests across the Region.
Debbie MacLean says it's been a dry winter and it could be a dry spring if the trend continues.
She says that could mean an early start to the forest fire season, which officially begins April 1st.
211 Northwestern Ontario
2-1-1 is coming to the Kenora and Rainy River Districts.
It's a phone number residents will be able to call to access information about social, community, health and government services in their community.
Trudy McCormick of the Northwest Community Legal Clinic says her agency will be responsible for keeping that database up-to-date.
211 is expected to be available in the district later this fall.
It's a phone number residents will be able to call to access information about social, community, health and government services in their community.
Trudy McCormick of the Northwest Community Legal Clinic says her agency will be responsible for keeping that database up-to-date.
211 is expected to be available in the district later this fall.
PUSH on UN agreement
A local handicapped spokesperson says it's about time.
Ron Ross of the lobby group PUSH is happy Canada has now voted in favour of a United Nations agreement on the rights of the disabled.
Ross calls the move great and adds the agreement is a historic moment for disability rights.
Ron Ross of the lobby group PUSH is happy Canada has now voted in favour of a United Nations agreement on the rights of the disabled.
Ross calls the move great and adds the agreement is a historic moment for disability rights.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Missing Woman Found
Kenora OPP are looking into the death of a 24 year old woman.
Deidre Lynn Chukra went missing last week and was last heard from on Monday March 8th.
Police were looking for the woman and had asked the public for their help over the weekend.
Sunday morning the body of Chukra was found on the shore of Lake of the Woods in the area of
Sylvan Street.
Police are investigating the exact circumstances surrounding her death.
Deidre Lynn Chukra went missing last week and was last heard from on Monday March 8th.
Police were looking for the woman and had asked the public for their help over the weekend.
Sunday morning the body of Chukra was found on the shore of Lake of the Woods in the area of
Sylvan Street.
Police are investigating the exact circumstances surrounding her death.
Ring Of Fire
Ontario's mining minister will try to reassure First Nations they will be properly consulted as the province seeks to develop massive chromite deposit known as the Ring of Fire.
Michael Gravelle says he's looking forward to this week's trip.
Grand Chief Stan Beardy of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation says the visit is welcome, but warns it will take more than lip-service to ensure development can go ahead.
Michael Gravelle says he's looking forward to this week's trip.
Grand Chief Stan Beardy of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation says the visit is welcome, but warns it will take more than lip-service to ensure development can go ahead.
Rainy River Resources Update
It's good news, but the president of Rainy River Resources says there's still more work ahead following the recent release of an independent review of its exploration activities in the district.
President Raymond Threlkeld says the resource estimate identifies about five million ounces in potential gold reserves.
The report identifies another 2-7 million ounces in inferred resources, but Threlkeld says they need to better determine its feasibility to be mine.
President Raymond Threlkeld says the resource estimate identifies about five million ounces in potential gold reserves.
The report identifies another 2-7 million ounces in inferred resources, but Threlkeld says they need to better determine its feasibility to be mine.
Kenora Re Uses Website
The City of Kenora is launching a new website to get divertmore material away from the local landfill site.
The Kenora Re-Uses website was set up by the SolidWaste Department and not only gives tips about recycling,but also lets local residents sell goods on-line.
Karen Sillery is the web-site administrator and says its going tobe free to buy and sell items listed on the website.
The website can be accessed at kenora.reuses.com
The Kenora Re-Uses website was set up by the SolidWaste Department and not only gives tips about recycling,but also lets local residents sell goods on-line.
Karen Sillery is the web-site administrator and says its going tobe free to buy and sell items listed on the website.
The website can be accessed at kenora.reuses.com
First Nation Relationship with Province
The Province and Grand Council Treaty 3 have agreed to continue working together to promote economic opportunities for area First Nation communities.
Minister of Natural Resources Linda Jeffrey and Minister of Natural Resources, Mining and
Forestry Michael Gravelle were in Wabigoon Friday to sign a Letter of Commitment.
Treaty 3 Chief Diane Kelley says its an historic agreement.
The deal will help both sides explore avenues to promote natural resource development.
Minister of Natural Resources Linda Jeffrey and Minister of Natural Resources, Mining and
Forestry Michael Gravelle were in Wabigoon Friday to sign a Letter of Commitment.
Treaty 3 Chief Diane Kelley says its an historic agreement.
The deal will help both sides explore avenues to promote natural resource development.
LOCAL HOCKEY ROUND UP
The Kenora Senior AAA Thistles are heading to the Renwick Cup. Kenora advanced with a 3-1 win over Thunder Bay yesterday at Thistle Rink.
Brooks Maya scored the winner for the Thistles with 7 minutes left in the game.
They added an empty netter with under a minute left to ice the win.
Kenora was scheduled to play Fort Frances in Sundays HNO finale, but the Thunderhawks were disqualified for using an inellegable player.
With the win the Thistles move on to the Renwick Cup April 2-4 in Thunder Bay.
They will take on the Southern Ontario champion in a best of three series to move on the the Allan Cup.
The Kenora Midget triple "A" Thistles season is over. The Thistles season came to an end this weekend in Thunder Bay where they lost a pair of games, 2-1 and 4-3 in double overtime, to the Thunder Bay Kings.
At the Northwestern Ontario AAA bantam hockey championship Sunday afternoon at Fort William Gardens in Thunder Bay the West All-Stars where edged 3-1 by the Thunder Bay Kings.
With the loss team West will not be moving on to the provincial tournament opening next week in Ottawa.
The Northwestern Ontario All-Stars defeated the Thunder Bay Kings 5-4 in overtime yesterday to claim the Hockey Northwestern Ontario Peewee Triple-A Branch Championship.
Dryden's Geoff Kitt picked up 2 goals and the O.T. winner with Trevor Kavanaugh, Tyler Vanuden, Logan Ginn adding singles.
The Local team now represents this Region at the All-Ontario Peewee Championshio in St. Mary's on April 5th.
Brooks Maya scored the winner for the Thistles with 7 minutes left in the game.
They added an empty netter with under a minute left to ice the win.
Kenora was scheduled to play Fort Frances in Sundays HNO finale, but the Thunderhawks were disqualified for using an inellegable player.
With the win the Thistles move on to the Renwick Cup April 2-4 in Thunder Bay.
They will take on the Southern Ontario champion in a best of three series to move on the the Allan Cup.
The Kenora Midget triple "A" Thistles season is over. The Thistles season came to an end this weekend in Thunder Bay where they lost a pair of games, 2-1 and 4-3 in double overtime, to the Thunder Bay Kings.
At the Northwestern Ontario AAA bantam hockey championship Sunday afternoon at Fort William Gardens in Thunder Bay the West All-Stars where edged 3-1 by the Thunder Bay Kings.
With the loss team West will not be moving on to the provincial tournament opening next week in Ottawa.
The Northwestern Ontario All-Stars defeated the Thunder Bay Kings 5-4 in overtime yesterday to claim the Hockey Northwestern Ontario Peewee Triple-A Branch Championship.
Dryden's Geoff Kitt picked up 2 goals and the O.T. winner with Trevor Kavanaugh, Tyler Vanuden, Logan Ginn adding singles.
The Local team now represents this Region at the All-Ontario Peewee Championshio in St. Mary's on April 5th.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Arena Renovations
The Thistle Rink will be getting a bit of a face lift this year.
City council has tentatively approved a plan to install new glass and boards around the ice surface at a cost of about 180 thousand dollars.
The work was supposed to be done in 2012, but councillor Chris VanWallenghem says with Kenora hosting the Allen Cup Championshipsnext year, they wanted to fix the arena up prior to that event.
He says the improvements will include glass partitions around the players benches to provide improved security.
City council has tentatively approved a plan to install new glass and boards around the ice surface at a cost of about 180 thousand dollars.
The work was supposed to be done in 2012, but councillor Chris VanWallenghem says with Kenora hosting the Allen Cup Championshipsnext year, they wanted to fix the arena up prior to that event.
He says the improvements will include glass partitions around the players benches to provide improved security.
Online HST Meeting
Kenora Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton and Thunder Bay Rainy River MP John Rafferty are teaming up to hold an online NDP town hall meeting.
The meeting will discuss the upcoming harmonized sales tax.
Hampton says the HST will have an impact on previously exempt goods and services.
Viewers will be able to ask questions today by logging onto www.netnewsledger.com
The meeting will discuss the upcoming harmonized sales tax.
Hampton says the HST will have an impact on previously exempt goods and services.
Viewers will be able to ask questions today by logging onto www.netnewsledger.com
Snowmobile Trails
The Sunset Trailriders is pulling the plug on the snowmobile season inthe Kenora area.
Warm weather and rain this week has damaged groomed trails in thebush and also on area lakes.
Ken Bracken is president of the STR and says they have only a shortwindow of opportunity to remove their trailmarkers.
Bracken says overall it was a disappointing snowmobile seasonhampered by warm weather, a lack of snow, and rain in January.
Warm weather and rain this week has damaged groomed trails in thebush and also on area lakes.
Ken Bracken is president of the STR and says they have only a shortwindow of opportunity to remove their trailmarkers.
Bracken says overall it was a disappointing snowmobile seasonhampered by warm weather, a lack of snow, and rain in January.
Accomodation Review Schools
The future of Evergreen Public School is up in the air afterdraft recommendations of an Accommodation Review Committeewere released.
The committee studied five schools and decided that Evergreenwould be the most practical to close.
Patti Letourneau is a concerned parent and says she isn't happyEvergreen has been targeted for closure.
Keewatin Public, Valleyview, Lakewood and King George were alsopart of the Accommodation Review.
The school board won't make a final decision until September.
The committee studied five schools and decided that Evergreenwould be the most practical to close.
Patti Letourneau is a concerned parent and says she isn't happyEvergreen has been targeted for closure.
Keewatin Public, Valleyview, Lakewood and King George were alsopart of the Accommodation Review.
The school board won't make a final decision until September.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
T.A. OFSSA UPDATE
The All-Ontario Senior Girls Volleyball Championships had a silver liningfor Thomas Aquinas Saints.
T.A. lost the gold medal game last night in three straight sets to Monseignor Bruyere Secondary School from London.
Saints Head Coach Bob Kowal says while its disappointing tolose the game, this is the best ever finish for the Saints girlsat OFSAA.
The Saints only lost one set over the past two days en routethe gold medal game.
Meanwhile, in the OFSSA double "a" girls volleyball championships,Dryden also made it to the gold medal game, but lost to lastyears defending champions, General Amherst from Windsor.
T.A. lost the gold medal game last night in three straight sets to Monseignor Bruyere Secondary School from London.
Saints Head Coach Bob Kowal says while its disappointing tolose the game, this is the best ever finish for the Saints girlsat OFSAA.
The Saints only lost one set over the past two days en routethe gold medal game.
Meanwhile, in the OFSSA double "a" girls volleyball championships,Dryden also made it to the gold medal game, but lost to lastyears defending champions, General Amherst from Windsor.
Child Porn Charges
A province wide investigation into kiddie porn has resulted in 35 arrests including one in Thunder Bay.
Charged with accessing child pornography is 61 year old Michael Daniel Bewcyk.
City police detective inspector Phil Levesque says don't be surprised to hear about future arrests.
Levesque says a personal computer was seized as part of the probe.
Charged with accessing child pornography is 61 year old Michael Daniel Bewcyk.
City police detective inspector Phil Levesque says don't be surprised to hear about future arrests.
Levesque says a personal computer was seized as part of the probe.
Aboriginal Week
There's a call for special subsidies for Aboriginal university students in the province.
Brent Kelso the organizer of Aboriginal week activities at Lakehead University says it's important to have well educated native youth.
He says this way they can be prepared confront the new economic development that is taking place in the north
Kelso's call comes at LU celebrates Aboriginal Week.
Brent Kelso the organizer of Aboriginal week activities at Lakehead University says it's important to have well educated native youth.
He says this way they can be prepared confront the new economic development that is taking place in the north
Kelso's call comes at LU celebrates Aboriginal Week.
HST Cariou
The tourism industry is not a fan of the harmonized sales tax.
Ontario's Sunset Country Travel Association Executive Director Gerry Cariou says it's going to impact rates for Outfitter Camps.
Cariou adds the HST is going to add more fuel to the fire and give Americans another reason to not travel across the border this summer.
Ontario's Sunset Country Travel Association Executive Director Gerry Cariou says it's going to impact rates for Outfitter Camps.
Cariou adds the HST is going to add more fuel to the fire and give Americans another reason to not travel across the border this summer.
Land Ambulance Site
There are still several things that need to be done before the City of Kenora can decide whether or not to rezone a piece of property on railway street from highway commercial to institutional.
The land beside Chrystal Clean Car Wash is meant to be the future site of a land ambulance base for the Kenora District Services Board.
City Councillor Wendy Cuthbert says the property developers need to conduct a vibration study.
The proposed site is located near the CP Rail yard but not near the tracks.
The land beside Chrystal Clean Car Wash is meant to be the future site of a land ambulance base for the Kenora District Services Board.
City Councillor Wendy Cuthbert says the property developers need to conduct a vibration study.
The proposed site is located near the CP Rail yard but not near the tracks.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
OFSAA T.A.
The St. Thomas Aquinas Saints continue their OFSSA Volleyball journey today.
T.A. beat E.S. Embrun last night with a score of 25-18, 25-22.
The Saints will now play Marymount Academy.
Game time is at 11:30 at Beaver Brae High School.
If T.A. loses this game they are out of the finals.
T.A. beat E.S. Embrun last night with a score of 25-18, 25-22.
The Saints will now play Marymount Academy.
Game time is at 11:30 at Beaver Brae High School.
If T.A. loses this game they are out of the finals.
Habitat for Humanity Scam
Local officials with Habitat for Humanity are warning of an e-mail scam.
Board chair Andrew Campbell says it pretends to be from Habitat International and asks for money to help with earthquake relief in Haiti.
Campbell says the people behind the scam ask for personal information that can be used to steal your intentity.
Board chair Andrew Campbell says it pretends to be from Habitat International and asks for money to help with earthquake relief in Haiti.
Campbell says the people behind the scam ask for personal information that can be used to steal your intentity.
Rat Portage Trail
The City of Kenora wants to enhance one of its urban trails.
The Keewatin Patricia District School Board has provided some extra property to the city for its Rat Portage trail.
The land will help provide a shorter route for families that don't want to walk the full trail.
Councillor Wendy Cuthbert says the land will help shorten the route by half an hour.
The Keewatin Patricia District School Board has provided some extra property to the city for its Rat Portage trail.
The land will help provide a shorter route for families that don't want to walk the full trail.
Councillor Wendy Cuthbert says the land will help shorten the route by half an hour.
Hydro One Upgrades
Hydro One is planning to spend more than two-million dollars in upgrades to its transmission lines in the Kenora district.
The work includes replacing more than 50 poles in an area west of the city that runs through dense bush and forest.
Crews have already started that work using helicopter to bring new polls to work sites and large bucket trucks to install the polls and cross arms.
The work includes replacing more than 50 poles in an area west of the city that runs through dense bush and forest.
Crews have already started that work using helicopter to bring new polls to work sites and large bucket trucks to install the polls and cross arms.
HST Motion Dropped
When you're in opposition the message is more important than the result.
That's how MP Bruce Hyer describes the failure of the NDP motion to cancel funding for the Harmonized Sales Tax.
Hyer says as long as attention was drawn to the subject their job is done.
The Liberals sided with the Conservatives in voting down the NDP motion.
That's how MP Bruce Hyer describes the failure of the NDP motion to cancel funding for the Harmonized Sales Tax.
Hyer says as long as attention was drawn to the subject their job is done.
The Liberals sided with the Conservatives in voting down the NDP motion.
Hampton on Throne Speech
Kenora Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton would like to see better first nation consultation when it comes to developing Northern Ontario's Ring of Fire.
Hampton says its great that the Government has mentioned the sizeable resource, but notes not one first nation community has been consulted.
Hampton adds marketing and selling our clean water technology is a good idea in theory, but notes the countries that need it can't afford to buy it.
Hampton says its great that the Government has mentioned the sizeable resource, but notes not one first nation community has been consulted.
Hampton adds marketing and selling our clean water technology is a good idea in theory, but notes the countries that need it can't afford to buy it.
Water Quality LOW Meeting
A couple of new reports on water quality on Lake of the Woods will be presentedthis week at a conference taking place in International Falls.
About 80 people from both sides of the border will be attending the twoday forum.
Todd Sellars is the executive director of the Lake of the Woods WaterSustainability Foundation and says this year they will be focussing specificallyon the types of pollutants entering the lake.
The newest member of the International Joint Commission, Joe Commuzziwill be one of the key-note speakers at the water quality forum.
About 80 people from both sides of the border will be attending the twoday forum.
Todd Sellars is the executive director of the Lake of the Woods WaterSustainability Foundation and says this year they will be focussing specificallyon the types of pollutants entering the lake.
The newest member of the International Joint Commission, Joe Commuzziwill be one of the key-note speakers at the water quality forum.
KPDSB School Climate Survey
The Keewatin Patricia District School Board is taking stock of the climate at its schools.
Northwestern Ontario students in grade 6 to 12 participated in the survey, and examines how students feel about their school life.
Superintendent of Education Sean Monteith says they have work to do when it comes to inspiring students to finish high school.
81 percent of students in this district had aspirations for finishing high school, while the Canadian norm sits at 91 percent.
Northwestern Ontario students in grade 6 to 12 participated in the survey, and examines how students feel about their school life.
Superintendent of Education Sean Monteith says they have work to do when it comes to inspiring students to finish high school.
81 percent of students in this district had aspirations for finishing high school, while the Canadian norm sits at 91 percent.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Throne Speech Gravelle
Northern Development and Mines minister Michael Gravelle is, not surprisingly, happy with his governments Speech from the Throne.
Gravelle says he's especially pleased the Ring of Fire chromite deposit near McFauld's Lake is highlighted in the speech.
Gravelle believes the government will be able to work through the concerns natives have about development of the area.
Gravelle says he's especially pleased the Ring of Fire chromite deposit near McFauld's Lake is highlighted in the speech.
Gravelle believes the government will be able to work through the concerns natives have about development of the area.
Medical Milestone
A medical milestone in northwestern Ontario.
The one thousandth knee replacement has been done atdistrict hospitals in Kenora, Dryden and Fort Frances.
Dr. Porter has been doing the surgeries for the couple ofyears now and its helped reduce the waiting times forthe procedure.
CEO of Lake of The Woods District Hosptial, Marc Belcaensays the waiting list for knee surgeries used to be a couple ofyears, now its just a couple of months.
About one quarter of all knee replacements have been donein Dryden and the rest in the other hospitals across the region.
The one thousandth knee replacement has been done atdistrict hospitals in Kenora, Dryden and Fort Frances.
Dr. Porter has been doing the surgeries for the couple ofyears now and its helped reduce the waiting times forthe procedure.
CEO of Lake of The Woods District Hosptial, Marc Belcaensays the waiting list for knee surgeries used to be a couple ofyears, now its just a couple of months.
About one quarter of all knee replacements have been donein Dryden and the rest in the other hospitals across the region.
Winter Carnival Reaction
The City of Kenora is pleased with its most recent revival of the winter carnival.
Tourism Officer Heather Paterson says no hard attendance numbers are available at this time, but they're deeming it a success.
The 2010 Winter Carnival included a snow sculpting competition, snowmobile poker derby, and a ice fishing tournament.
Tourism Officer Heather Paterson says no hard attendance numbers are available at this time, but they're deeming it a success.
The 2010 Winter Carnival included a snow sculpting competition, snowmobile poker derby, and a ice fishing tournament.
KPDSB Union Talks
The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board has reached an agreement with the Elementary Teachers Federation on its members who teach at schools amalgamated with the public school board last year.
In a joint release the board and the union say they have concluded discussion on the terms and conditions of employment of the teachers at schools in Savant Lake, PickleLake and Upsala.
Both sides say thye are pleased with the outcome of the discussions and feel that the groundwork has been laid to provide a smooth transition through to the next round of negotiations in 2012.
No further details will be released pending ratification.
In a joint release the board and the union say they have concluded discussion on the terms and conditions of employment of the teachers at schools in Savant Lake, PickleLake and Upsala.
Both sides say thye are pleased with the outcome of the discussions and feel that the groundwork has been laid to provide a smooth transition through to the next round of negotiations in 2012.
No further details will be released pending ratification.
Trail Conditions Ice
The warmer weather conditions are taking their toll on area lakes.
The frozen bodies of water are becoming slushy in sections and other parts are open.
OPP Constable Dave Cain says snowmobilers should use common sense.
For trail conditions log onto www.sunsettrailriders.ca
The frozen bodies of water are becoming slushy in sections and other parts are open.
OPP Constable Dave Cain says snowmobilers should use common sense.
For trail conditions log onto www.sunsettrailriders.ca
Fednor Changes
Opposition M-P's are again pushing for FEDNOR to become a stand-alone federal agency.
The NDP Fednor Critic Claude Gravelle says take the responsibility away from Industry Canada may help get the money flowing to the communities and organizations fast.
Gravelle says they're prepared to reintroduce a private members bill that died on the order paper when the last session was prorogued.
The NDP Fednor Critic Claude Gravelle says take the responsibility away from Industry Canada may help get the money flowing to the communities and organizations fast.
Gravelle says they're prepared to reintroduce a private members bill that died on the order paper when the last session was prorogued.
New Recruitment Programs
There are two new government programs to recruit doctors to northern Ontario.
The first will be providing grants to doctors and new medical grads who agree to practice in the north or highly rural communities.
In making the announcement in Thunder Bay Health Minister Deb Matthews says it replaces the Underserviced Areas Program which she says wasn't working anymore
As well Matthews announced a program that allows graduates to pratice for five years in any Ontario community except Toronto and Ottawa. In return they get postgraduate training opportunities
The first will be providing grants to doctors and new medical grads who agree to practice in the north or highly rural communities.
In making the announcement in Thunder Bay Health Minister Deb Matthews says it replaces the Underserviced Areas Program which she says wasn't working anymore
As well Matthews announced a program that allows graduates to pratice for five years in any Ontario community except Toronto and Ottawa. In return they get postgraduate training opportunities
Mike Richards' Gold Medal
The City of Kenora is planning a home coming for Olympic MedalistMike Richards this spring.
Councillor Chris Van Wallenghem says a committee has been setup and they'd like to do something the week Richards returns home after his NHL season is over.
Council got a first hand look at Richards gold medal yesterday.
His mother Irene and his cousin Jeff displayed the gold medal to council.
Jeff Richards says Mike appreciated all the support he got fromlocal residents.
Irene Richards says of all the games Mike has played in, the Olympic victory was by far the most exciting.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Canfield running for mayor
A familiar face is planning to enter the mayoralty race in Kenora this fall.
Dave Canfield says he's picked up his nomination forms and plans to submit them later this year.
He says he wanted to put to rest the speculation about whether he is going to run or not.
Canfield has spent the past few years working out west and inEar Falls as a heavy equipment operator.
He says he's looking forward to getting back into municipal politics.
Dave Canfield says he's picked up his nomination forms and plans to submit them later this year.
He says he wanted to put to rest the speculation about whether he is going to run or not.
Canfield has spent the past few years working out west and inEar Falls as a heavy equipment operator.
He says he's looking forward to getting back into municipal politics.
Chicken Farm Vermillion Bay
A Vermillion Bay farmer wants to be able to slaughter chickens in Northwestern Ontario.
Ron Rhyner wants to raise a small number of chickens and sell them but inter provincial slaughter rules won't allow him.
Rhyner says the Ministry of Agriculture has said that local abbatoirs could get involved and start slaughtering chickens.
Currently the closet chicken abbatoir is in Manitoba and it is illegal to sell chickens slaughtered out of province.
Ron Rhyner wants to raise a small number of chickens and sell them but inter provincial slaughter rules won't allow him.
Rhyner says the Ministry of Agriculture has said that local abbatoirs could get involved and start slaughtering chickens.
Currently the closet chicken abbatoir is in Manitoba and it is illegal to sell chickens slaughtered out of province.
OPP Bound 2010
The OPP is getting ready for its 8th annual OPP Bound recruitment program.
The three day mini-camp will take place in Orillia this July.
Sergeant Shelley Garr says they are accepting just 50 participantsthis year.
You need to be at least 18 years of age to attend the OPP Boundmini-camp.
Successful applicants will also have to find their own transportationto Orillia.
The three day mini-camp will take place in Orillia this July.
Sergeant Shelley Garr says they are accepting just 50 participantsthis year.
You need to be at least 18 years of age to attend the OPP Boundmini-camp.
Successful applicants will also have to find their own transportationto Orillia.
Beaver Brae Highschool Cheerleaders
The Beaver Brae Cheerleaders are holding their own at regional competitions.
The Dance Team won gold at the North Regional Championships, while the Cheerleaders took
silver in their division.
The Dance Team won gold at the North Regional Championships, while the Cheerleaders took
silver in their division.
Ontario Winter Games
Two Kenora Judo competitors took part in the Ontario Winter Games this weekend.
Kaitie Dennis put in a perfect day winning all her matches to win gold.
Luke Heatherington competed in the 66 kg division and earned silver.
Kaitie and Luke will now fine tune their skills in preparation for a March 17th trip to Germany to compete in an international Judo competition followed by a week- long training camp.
Kaitie Dennis put in a perfect day winning all her matches to win gold.
Luke Heatherington competed in the 66 kg division and earned silver.
Kaitie and Luke will now fine tune their skills in preparation for a March 17th trip to Germany to compete in an international Judo competition followed by a week- long training camp.
Girls Hockey
The Beaver Brae Girls hockey season has come to an end.
They lost game two against the Dryden Eagles last night.
The final score was 2-1.
They lost game two against the Dryden Eagles last night.
The final score was 2-1.
OFSAA T.A.
The City of Kenora is gearing up for another big sporting event.
The All-Ontario Single "a" girls volleyball championships aretaking place at Thomas Aquinas this week.
Bob Kowal is the team's head coach and thinks his team isready for some tough competition.
The OFSAA banquet will be held tonight at T.A. with tournament action starting Tuesday morning at three gyms in the city.
The All-Ontario Single "a" girls volleyball championships aretaking place at Thomas Aquinas this week.
Bob Kowal is the team's head coach and thinks his team isready for some tough competition.
The OFSAA banquet will be held tonight at T.A. with tournament action starting Tuesday morning at three gyms in the city.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Winter Carnival this Weekend
It doesn't really feel like winter, but organizers are hoping local residents get in the spirit of the season with this weekend's Winter Carnival.
Heather Paterson is Kenora's Tourism Development officer and says if its too warm outside, there will still be lots to do inside this weekend.
Tempertures are expected to be five to seven degrees above this weekend, and Paterson says events like the snow sculpture competition could be affected by unseasonable conditions.
Heather Paterson is Kenora's Tourism Development officer and says if its too warm outside, there will still be lots to do inside this weekend.
Tempertures are expected to be five to seven degrees above this weekend, and Paterson says events like the snow sculpture competition could be affected by unseasonable conditions.
Thomas Aquinas hosts OFSAA next week
Some of the top high school girls volleyball teams in the province will be arriving in town this weekend.
Thomas Aquinas is playing host to the All-Ontario championships starting Tuesday morning.
Saints Head Coach, Bob Kowal says got a very experienced team organizing this year's event.
The tournament will be played at T.A., Pope John Paul and BeaverBrae Tuesday and Wednesday.
The OFSAA banquet will take place Monday night.
Thomas Aquinas is playing host to the All-Ontario championships starting Tuesday morning.
Saints Head Coach, Bob Kowal says got a very experienced team organizing this year's event.
The tournament will be played at T.A., Pope John Paul and BeaverBrae Tuesday and Wednesday.
The OFSAA banquet will take place Monday night.
Hospital still in a surplus situation
With one month left in the fiscal year, Lake of the Woods District Hospital remains in the black.
President and CEO, Marc Belcaen says through the end of January,the hospital was running a surplus of more than 359 thousand dollars.
He says thats less than the month before, but still is ahead of their pace from last year.
Belcaen says they are seeing an increase in their overtime costsbecause all their beds are full right now, and that's starting to eat into their budget surplus.
President and CEO, Marc Belcaen says through the end of January,the hospital was running a surplus of more than 359 thousand dollars.
He says thats less than the month before, but still is ahead of their pace from last year.
Belcaen says they are seeing an increase in their overtime costsbecause all their beds are full right now, and that's starting to eat into their budget surplus.
Changes in store for Hospital Board
Lake of the Woods District Hospital is planning to reduce the size of its board of directors.
Currently there are 20 board members, 10 of which are elected in the municipal elections every four years.
However, at last night's board meeting, members voted to do away from the current model, and move to a corporate model, where only people who have a membership can be elected.
The new board would have just 13 members, nine elected and four from the hospital administration or representing the medical community.
Chair of the board, Debbie Baldwin says a smaller board will be more manageble and easier to get quorums for their meetings.
Currently there are 20 board members, 10 of which are elected in the municipal elections every four years.
However, at last night's board meeting, members voted to do away from the current model, and move to a corporate model, where only people who have a membership can be elected.
The new board would have just 13 members, nine elected and four from the hospital administration or representing the medical community.
Chair of the board, Debbie Baldwin says a smaller board will be more manageble and easier to get quorums for their meetings.
Rickford on Federal Budget
Despite a no frills budget, the federal government is still going to provide stimulus funding this year.
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford admits the government has reined inspending to deal with its 54 billion dollar deficit, but there are still some positives for the riding.
He says there is money for the struggling forest sector.
Rickford says funding was increased for FedNor last year, and will be continued through this year.
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford admits the government has reined inspending to deal with its 54 billion dollar deficit, but there are still some positives for the riding.
He says there is money for the struggling forest sector.
Rickford says funding was increased for FedNor last year, and will be continued through this year.
Fewer people using cellphones while driving
It appears motorists in Northwestern Ontario are abiding by the cell phone ban while behind the wheel.
During the first month of Ontario's new distracted driver law, Provincial police issued
22 charges to people caught breaking the rules.
470-charges were laid Province-wide, with the Greater Toronto Area registering the most at 155.
The law banning drivers from using hand-held devices such as cellphones and looking at display screens such as laptops came into effect last October.
But there was a three-month grace period.
During the first month of Ontario's new distracted driver law, Provincial police issued
22 charges to people caught breaking the rules.
470-charges were laid Province-wide, with the Greater Toronto Area registering the most at 155.
The law banning drivers from using hand-held devices such as cellphones and looking at display screens such as laptops came into effect last October.
But there was a three-month grace period.
Puget Ventures at Werner Lake
A B.C. based mining company has completed the first phase of drilling on its Werner Lake property north of Kenora.
Puget Ventures is looking for cobalt deposits.
The first phase of the program was designed to confirm the historic mineral resource.
Over a thousand metres of drilling were completed in 17 diamond drill holes.
Drill results will be released as they become available.
Puget Ventures is looking for cobalt deposits.
The first phase of the program was designed to confirm the historic mineral resource.
Over a thousand metres of drilling were completed in 17 diamond drill holes.
Drill results will be released as they become available.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Local Hockey Playoffs
St. Thomas Aquinas Girls hockey team fell to Dryden last night 5 to 2.
The Eagles now advance to the finals against Beaver Brae.
Their first game will be in Dryden on Thursday.
Puck drops at 6:30.
The Eagles now advance to the finals against Beaver Brae.
Their first game will be in Dryden on Thursday.
Puck drops at 6:30.
NOMA Provincial Ministers
Local issues took centre stage in Toronto as the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association spoke with Provincial Leaders.
NOMA President Anne Krassilowsky says delegates spent considerable time discussing social service concerns.
Krassilowsky also requested for an increase in the Northern Communities Grant as well as an affordable, long term industrial energy rate.
NOMA President Anne Krassilowsky says delegates spent considerable time discussing social service concerns.
Krassilowsky also requested for an increase in the Northern Communities Grant as well as an affordable, long term industrial energy rate.
Help Chile
The Canadian Red Cross in northwestern Ontario is preparing for another burst of support this time for Chilean Earth Quake aid.
Fund Development Manager Rob Zuback says the situation has been marked as an appeal level white.
To help out and donate to the local Red Cross call toll free 1-888-277-9089.
Fund Development Manager Rob Zuback says the situation has been marked as an appeal level white.
To help out and donate to the local Red Cross call toll free 1-888-277-9089.
Weather Kenora
Not a lot to complain about this winter.
The El Nino effect means temperatures were above normal forthe third month in a row.
Chantelle Serney is a meteorologist with EnvironmentCanada and says on the other hand there was slightly more snowthan normal in February.
The average temperature in February was -10.8 celcius,which is about two degrees warmer than normal.
The El Nino effect means temperatures were above normal forthe third month in a row.
Chantelle Serney is a meteorologist with EnvironmentCanada and says on the other hand there was slightly more snowthan normal in February.
The average temperature in February was -10.8 celcius,which is about two degrees warmer than normal.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Truck Fire
The OPP says a tractor-trailor unit sustained extensive damage after catching fire while driving between Kenora and Vermillion Bay.
The incident took place last Thursday about 20 kilometers west of Vermillion Bay.
Police say when officers and personnel from the Machin Volunteer Fire Department showed up at the scene, the cab was completely engulfed in flames.
The trailor itself sustained only minimal damage.
No-one was injured and foul play is not suspected in the incident.
The OPP say the Trans-Canada was closed for about an hour while fire fighters worked to extinguish the blaze.
The incident took place last Thursday about 20 kilometers west of Vermillion Bay.
Police say when officers and personnel from the Machin Volunteer Fire Department showed up at the scene, the cab was completely engulfed in flames.
The trailor itself sustained only minimal damage.
No-one was injured and foul play is not suspected in the incident.
The OPP say the Trans-Canada was closed for about an hour while fire fighters worked to extinguish the blaze.
Treaty Three Forestry
Grand Council Treaty #3 says it needs to be consulted before any new forestry management deals are made in northwestern Ontario.
Treaty Three Grand Chief, Diane Kelly says the Ministry of Natural Resources is not listending to the owners of the forest.
She says traditional governments in this region pre-date the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada, and maintains they have the right to authorize development.
Kelly says she supports efforts by individual communities to define their economic interests in the region, but the decision maker is Grand Council Treaty #3.
Chiefs from Treaty Three have been meeting on the Rat Portage First Nation over issues ofresource benefit sharing.
Treaty Three Grand Chief, Diane Kelly says the Ministry of Natural Resources is not listending to the owners of the forest.
She says traditional governments in this region pre-date the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada, and maintains they have the right to authorize development.
Kelly says she supports efforts by individual communities to define their economic interests in the region, but the decision maker is Grand Council Treaty #3.
Chiefs from Treaty Three have been meeting on the Rat Portage First Nation over issues ofresource benefit sharing.
Hampton Prorogation
Now that the Federal Government is getting back to work, the Provincial government will be taking a couple of days off.
Premier McGuinty plans to prorogue parliment this Thursday.
Kenora Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says not much work will get done this week.
The Provincial Legislature will be shut down for four days and will return with a throne speech on Monday, March 8th.
Premier McGuinty plans to prorogue parliment this Thursday.
Kenora Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says not much work will get done this week.
The Provincial Legislature will be shut down for four days and will return with a throne speech on Monday, March 8th.
American Passports Cost More
More bad news for Northwestern Ontario's tourism industry.
The US State Department is planning to hike passport fees by as much as 35 per cent.
Ontario's Sunset Country Executive Director Gerry Cariou says the move could have an impact on bookings this summer.
Cariou says families of five will not be able to afford a more expensive passport, on top of higher gas prices and increased taxes on accomodation.
The US State Department is planning to hike passport fees by as much as 35 per cent.
Ontario's Sunset Country Executive Director Gerry Cariou says the move could have an impact on bookings this summer.
Cariou says families of five will not be able to afford a more expensive passport, on top of higher gas prices and increased taxes on accomodation.
Violent Weekend Kenora
A violent weekend in Kenora, with police investigating at least three assaults.
In two of the incidents, OPP officers were also attacked.
On Saturday, police were called to a fight on 1st Street South.
While officers were investigating, they were confronted by a man, who tried to obstruct them.
The suspect became agitated and pulled a knife on the officers.
He was disarmed, but then tried to attack police with a broken bottle.
He then barricaded himself in a room.
The OPP were finally able to talk the man out and place him under arrest.
Aaron McDonald has been charged with obstructing police, escaping lawful custody, assaulting police and assault with a weapon.
In two of the incidents, OPP officers were also attacked.
On Saturday, police were called to a fight on 1st Street South.
While officers were investigating, they were confronted by a man, who tried to obstruct them.
The suspect became agitated and pulled a knife on the officers.
He was disarmed, but then tried to attack police with a broken bottle.
He then barricaded himself in a room.
The OPP were finally able to talk the man out and place him under arrest.
Aaron McDonald has been charged with obstructing police, escaping lawful custody, assaulting police and assault with a weapon.
Nice Weather
It appears that March is coming in like a lamb across northwestern Ontario.
Environment Canada meteorologist Geoff Coulsen says the rest of the week will be the nicest we've seen in some time.
Thursday and Friday we can expect a high of 5, while Saturday is promising a high of 7.
Coulsen credits a high pressure system from the west for giving us the unseasonable temperatures.
Environment Canada meteorologist Geoff Coulsen says the rest of the week will be the nicest we've seen in some time.
Thursday and Friday we can expect a high of 5, while Saturday is promising a high of 7.
Coulsen credits a high pressure system from the west for giving us the unseasonable temperatures.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Local Hockey Results
The St. Thomas Aquinas Saints girls have evened their best of 3 series with a 3-1 win over the Dryden Eagles at the Keewatin arena last night.
Robyn Houle scored a hat trick to lead the Saints to the win.
The deciding game is in Dryden Tuesday night with the puck dropping at 6:30.
Meanwhile, the Beaver Brae Boys team fell to the Dryden Eagles 2 to 1 last night.
The Beaver Brae Girls hockey team beat Fort Frances 6 to 5 last night in overtime.
They'll play the winner of the Dryden/T.A. series.
Robyn Houle scored a hat trick to lead the Saints to the win.
The deciding game is in Dryden Tuesday night with the puck dropping at 6:30.
Meanwhile, the Beaver Brae Boys team fell to the Dryden Eagles 2 to 1 last night.
The Beaver Brae Girls hockey team beat Fort Frances 6 to 5 last night in overtime.
They'll play the winner of the Dryden/T.A. series.
Parliment Resumes Wednesday
The Member of Parliament for Kenora Riding isn't making any apologies for the government's decision to prorogue parliament.
A new session of the House of Commons is expected to begin this week.
Greg Rickford says he was able to spend his time wisely and visit most communities in the riding.
Rickford says he was able to make a number of funding announcements in remote communities in the far north.
The speech from the Throne is scheduled to take place Wednesday with the budget slated for Thursday.
A new session of the House of Commons is expected to begin this week.
Greg Rickford says he was able to spend his time wisely and visit most communities in the riding.
Rickford says he was able to make a number of funding announcements in remote communities in the far north.
The speech from the Throne is scheduled to take place Wednesday with the budget slated for Thursday.
Montague Update
Former Dryden gunsmith, Bruce Montague is starting to run out of appeals.
The Ontario Court of Appeal upheld his conviction on 26 firearm related charges last week in Toronto.
The three member panel also upheld his 18 month jail term.
The judges ruled that unlike Americans, Canadians do not have a constitutional right to bear arms and possession of firearms is not something that is guaranteed under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Montague has indicated that he will take his case to the Supreme Court of Canada if he has to.
The Ontario Court of Appeal upheld his conviction on 26 firearm related charges last week in Toronto.
The three member panel also upheld his 18 month jail term.
The judges ruled that unlike Americans, Canadians do not have a constitutional right to bear arms and possession of firearms is not something that is guaranteed under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Montague has indicated that he will take his case to the Supreme Court of Canada if he has to.
I-Level Timberstrand Mill
I-Level Timberstrand Mill on the Jones Road is starting to move towards a five day a week production schedule.
Wayne Roznowski is a spokesperson for Weyerhaeuser, the company that owns the mill, and says they expect market conditions to improve this spring.
Roznowski says they are in the process of hiring and training about a dozen new associates for the timberstrand mill.
Wayne Roznowski is a spokesperson for Weyerhaeuser, the company that owns the mill, and says they expect market conditions to improve this spring.
Roznowski says they are in the process of hiring and training about a dozen new associates for the timberstrand mill.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Aboriginal Diabetes Program Funding
The federal government is being urged to ensure there is funding in next week's budget for an aboriginal diabetes program.
The National Aboriginal Diabetes Association says an initiative they've overseen for the past five years is due to run out of money at the end of next month.
Dina Bruyere heads up the association and says as many as 600 diabetes programs on reserves are reliant on the funding.
Bruyere says they have been trying to find out if their funding will be continued, but so far the federal government has been mum on the issue.
The National Aboriginal Diabetes Association says an initiative they've overseen for the past five years is due to run out of money at the end of next month.
Dina Bruyere heads up the association and says as many as 600 diabetes programs on reserves are reliant on the funding.
Bruyere says they have been trying to find out if their funding will be continued, but so far the federal government has been mum on the issue.
Confederation College No Strike
Faculty at Ontario's 24 colleges have accepted what the colleges called their final contract offer.
The Ontario Labour Relations Board confirming that almost 51 and a half per cent accepted the offer in a vote across the province.
Confederation College president Pat Lang is glad there will be no strike.
Lang says in this day and age 5.9 per cent over three years is a fair contract.
The Ontario Labour Relations Board confirming that almost 51 and a half per cent accepted the offer in a vote across the province.
Confederation College president Pat Lang is glad there will be no strike.
Lang says in this day and age 5.9 per cent over three years is a fair contract.
Ignoring the North?
New Democrats are accusing the McGuinty Liberals of ignoring northern Ontario.
Leader Andrea Horvath told the legislature yesterday a group of municipal leaders from the northwest she recently met are looking for help in dealing with high unemployment rates and increase usage of social services.
Acting Premier Dwight Duncan admits there are unique challenges in the north, but noted the province has responded through a number of recent investments to mining, forestry and infrastructure.
Leader Andrea Horvath told the legislature yesterday a group of municipal leaders from the northwest she recently met are looking for help in dealing with high unemployment rates and increase usage of social services.
Acting Premier Dwight Duncan admits there are unique challenges in the north, but noted the province has responded through a number of recent investments to mining, forestry and infrastructure.
Ontario Throne Speech
Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty says he wants the province to get serious about competing for international students.
And that's part of his ambitious five-year plan called Open Ontario, which will be unveiled during the throne speech on March 8th.
Open Ontario also includes plans to cash in on a growing demand for water and clean water technology and a promise to develop a huge chromite deposit in the northwest known as the Ring of Fire.
And that's part of his ambitious five-year plan called Open Ontario, which will be unveiled during the throne speech on March 8th.
Open Ontario also includes plans to cash in on a growing demand for water and clean water technology and a promise to develop a huge chromite deposit in the northwest known as the Ring of Fire.
HST Protest
Members of a northwestern Ontario First Nation braved a briskwind and blocked the Trans-Canada Highway yesterday to protest the impending Harmonized Sales Tax.
Protesters from Pic Mobert waved aboriginal flags, anti-H-S-T signs and beat traditional drums near their traditional pow wow grounds about 20 kilometres west of White River.
Most of Ontario's First Nations are concerned the H-S-T will hike the cost of essentials like heat and hydro.
More highway slowdowns are planned by northwestern Ontario First Nations before the H-S-T kicks in July 1st.
Protesters from Pic Mobert waved aboriginal flags, anti-H-S-T signs and beat traditional drums near their traditional pow wow grounds about 20 kilometres west of White River.
Most of Ontario's First Nations are concerned the H-S-T will hike the cost of essentials like heat and hydro.
More highway slowdowns are planned by northwestern Ontario First Nations before the H-S-T kicks in July 1st.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
First Nations Housing
The eighth annual First Nations Northern Housing Conference hasdrawn about 200 representatives from eight tribal councils and 70communities in northern Ontario.
The conference in Thunder Bay features workshops, a trade showand 36 suppliers from Ontario and Manitoba.
Presentations include energy conservation and efficiency, mouldprevention and treatment, and a panel discussion on how First Nations' communities can improve housing conditions.
The conference in Thunder Bay features workshops, a trade showand 36 suppliers from Ontario and Manitoba.
Presentations include energy conservation and efficiency, mouldprevention and treatment, and a panel discussion on how First Nations' communities can improve housing conditions.
Research Lab LED
Lakehead University is getting over half a million dollars to build a new research lab.
It's being done in partnership with a private company.
Northern Development minister Michael Gravelle says the lab will study LED lights and ways to improve the technology.
The money comes from the provinces Northern Heritage Fund.
It's being done in partnership with a private company.
Northern Development minister Michael Gravelle says the lab will study LED lights and ways to improve the technology.
The money comes from the provinces Northern Heritage Fund.
Tim Horton's Youth Camp
The Tim Horton's Foundation isn't giving up its plan to develop a kids camp in Whiteshell Provincial Park.
Sylvia Lake is the latest battleground for a proposed youth camp.
Dave Newnham is the vice-president of the the Tim Horton Children's Foundation and says they want to build a 12-million dollar retreat for underprivileged children on an untouched portion of the park.
Newnham says they hope to finalize the location of the summer camp this year and start construction next year, with completion sometime in 2012.
Sylvia Lake is the latest battleground for a proposed youth camp.
Dave Newnham is the vice-president of the the Tim Horton Children's Foundation and says they want to build a 12-million dollar retreat for underprivileged children on an untouched portion of the park.
Newnham says they hope to finalize the location of the summer camp this year and start construction next year, with completion sometime in 2012.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Via Rail NWO
The move is on again to bring back passenger rail service to Kenora and Thunder Bay.
New Democrat MP Bruce Hyer plans to introduce a private members motion on the issue when parliament resumes.
Hyer says the time is right to restore the service and hopes his motion brings attention to the issue.
New Democrat MP Bruce Hyer plans to introduce a private members motion on the issue when parliament resumes.
Hyer says the time is right to restore the service and hopes his motion brings attention to the issue.
Downtown Kenora Funding
The City of Kenora is getting more funding to help fix up the downtown core.
The Ministry of Agriculture, food and Rural affairs has announced a250 thousand dollar grant that will be shared with the KenoraHarbortown Business Improvement Zone.
The funding will help out with landscaping improvements inthe downtown area and also signage and new banners.
The B.I.Z. is expected to contribute 25 thousand dollars aspart of the program.
The Ministry of Agriculture, food and Rural affairs has announced a250 thousand dollar grant that will be shared with the KenoraHarbortown Business Improvement Zone.
The funding will help out with landscaping improvements inthe downtown area and also signage and new banners.
The B.I.Z. is expected to contribute 25 thousand dollars aspart of the program.
Hampton Pensions Abitibi
Demands for pension assistance for Ontario's Abitibi-Bowater workers in the Legislature yesterday.
Kenora-Rainy River M-P-P Howard Hampton says support recently given to Nortel's pension plan should be offered to AbitibiBowater's underfunding pension plan.
Education Minister Leona Dombrowsky says the money given to Nortel was from a pension benefits guarantee fund that guarantees each worker one-thousand dollars per month.
Kenora-Rainy River M-P-P Howard Hampton says support recently given to Nortel's pension plan should be offered to AbitibiBowater's underfunding pension plan.
Education Minister Leona Dombrowsky says the money given to Nortel was from a pension benefits guarantee fund that guarantees each worker one-thousand dollars per month.
Teaching Awards
Nominations are open for the Ontario Teaching Awards.
Anyone can nominate an educator who is innovative and creative can log onto www.teachingawards.ca
Ontario Teachers Federation President Reno Melatti says Northwestern Ontario has taken home the award before.
Nominations close on April 12th.
Anyone can nominate an educator who is innovative and creative can log onto www.teachingawards.ca
Ontario Teachers Federation President Reno Melatti says Northwestern Ontario has taken home the award before.
Nominations close on April 12th.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Signage By Law
Thursday is the final day local residents have to comment onthe city's new sign by-law.
The by-law has been in the works for months.
Councillor Wendy Cuthbert says the one issue people continueto comment on is the ban on posting sign banners on the C.P. Rail fence.
Cuthbert says council hopes to be able to approve the newsign by-law in the next couple of months.
The by-law has been in the works for months.
Councillor Wendy Cuthbert says the one issue people continueto comment on is the ban on posting sign banners on the C.P. Rail fence.
Cuthbert says council hopes to be able to approve the newsign by-law in the next couple of months.
Signage By Law
Thursday is the final day local residents have to comment onthe city's new sign by-law.
The by-law has been in the works for months.
Councillor Wendy Cuthbert says the one issue people continueto comment on is the ban on posting sign banners on the C.P. Rail fence.
Cuthbert says council hopes to be able to approve the newsign by-law in the next couple of months.
The by-law has been in the works for months.
Councillor Wendy Cuthbert says the one issue people continueto comment on is the ban on posting sign banners on the C.P. Rail fence.
Cuthbert says council hopes to be able to approve the newsign by-law in the next couple of months.
NOMA Energy
The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association is asking the Province to not abandon it's plans for new energy transmission lines in Northwestern Ontario.
President Anne Krassilowsky says they want to see the east of Nipigon to Pickle Lake line move forward as outlined in the Northern Growth Plan.
NOMA is asking the plan be modified to provide service to Whitesand First Nation, Armstrong and Gull Bay First Nation.
President Anne Krassilowsky says they want to see the east of Nipigon to Pickle Lake line move forward as outlined in the Northern Growth Plan.
NOMA is asking the plan be modified to provide service to Whitesand First Nation, Armstrong and Gull Bay First Nation.
STR Trails
The Sunset Trail Riders Club is giving back to its volunteers.
President Ken Bracken says they're providing incentives for those members who groom area trails.
Bracken adds they've created a vintage sled permit for those members who have snowmachines 15 years and older.
President Ken Bracken says they're providing incentives for those members who groom area trails.
Bracken adds they've created a vintage sled permit for those members who have snowmachines 15 years and older.
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