Home ice held no advantage for the Kenora Triple "a" Thistles.
Back at the Thistle Rink after a seven game road trip, the Kenora Midgets
dropped a pair of games to the Interlake Lightning over the weekend.
Yesterday, the Thistles were beaten 6-2.
Saturday night, it was the Lightning over the Thistles 3-1.
The regular season wraps up next weekend with a pair of games at
home for the Kenora Midgets.
Meanwhile, the Kenora Double "a" Peewee Thistles took top honors
from a tournament in Stonewall, Manitoba.
The Thistles beat Morden 3-1 in the A-side final.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Saints Girls Volleyball Squad wins Thunder Bay Tourney
A big weekend for the Thomas Aquinas senior girls volleyball team.The Saints were in Thunder Bay for the Thunderwolves Invitational Tournament
at Lakehead University.
T.A. went through the tournament without dropping a set, and won the gold medal with a straight sets win over St. Ignatius from Thunder Bay.
Becky Elliot was named the tournament MVP, while three other members of the Saints
were named to the tournament all-star team.Meanwhile, the Thomas Aquinas Boys hockey team compiled a 2-1 record at a tournament
in Duluth, Minnesota.
The Saints tied for 5th overall out of 15 teams entered in the Junior Gold A tournament.
In their final game, the Saints got by at team from Blaine, Minnesota 4-3.
Meanwhile, the Saints girls hockey team was in Sioux Lookout over the weekend, and skated
to an easy 13-2 victory.
Two Kenora Figure Skaters Qualify for Provincials
Three medals for the Kenora Figure Skating Club at the Festival of Stars in
Sault Ste. Marie.
Kelsey Scribilo won a silver in the Senior Ladies event, and then collected a bronze
in the Gold Triathon.
Julia Withers also placed second in the Silver Triathlon.
Both skaters have now qualified for the Provincial Silver Star Skate in Mississauga
next month.
Sault Ste. Marie.
Kelsey Scribilo won a silver in the Senior Ladies event, and then collected a bronze
in the Gold Triathon.
Julia Withers also placed second in the Silver Triathlon.
Both skaters have now qualified for the Provincial Silver Star Skate in Mississauga
next month.
Hospital looking for new board members
A campaign to attract new members to the Lake of the Woods District Hospital has
been launched.
A number of ads have been posted asking local residents to purchase corporate
members prior to the Hospital Board's Annual General meeting.
Vice-chair of the Hospital board Fred Richardson says its a challenging, but rewarding
job.
Corporate memberships cost just five dollars, but anyone wanting to become a director
on the Hospital Board has to purchase a membership at least 60 days prior to the board
elections in June.
been launched.
A number of ads have been posted asking local residents to purchase corporate
members prior to the Hospital Board's Annual General meeting.
Vice-chair of the Hospital board Fred Richardson says its a challenging, but rewarding
job.
Corporate memberships cost just five dollars, but anyone wanting to become a director
on the Hospital Board has to purchase a membership at least 60 days prior to the board
elections in June.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Government Under Fire for OPP pay raise
The governing Liberals are under fire for agreeing to a 5-percent pay hike for the OPP while demanding a wage freeze from public sector workers.
Municipal leaders across the region have called the increase`irresponsible'' and putting towns and cities, which have to pay for policing, in a tight spot.
Premier Dalton McGuinty is insisting his plan to curb salaries is still on track.
Last spring's budget called for a 2-year freeze on wages for more than a million public sector workers to help fight a record Provincial deficit of about 20-billion dollars.
Municipal leaders across the region have called the increase`irresponsible'' and putting towns and cities, which have to pay for policing, in a tight spot.
Premier Dalton McGuinty is insisting his plan to curb salaries is still on track.
Last spring's budget called for a 2-year freeze on wages for more than a million public sector workers to help fight a record Provincial deficit of about 20-billion dollars.
Hospitals get more funding for joint replacement
The Northwest Local Health Integration Network is promising more money for knee and hip replacement surgeries in Kenora, Fort Frances and Dryden.However, Lake of the Woods District Hospital doesn't think it will be able to take advantage of the of the extra funding.
Chief Executive Officer, Marc Belcaen says they don't have the same demand for the surgeries as other hospitals in the region.
The LHIN's is providing 275 thousand dollars to carry out 40 more knee and hip replacement surgeries in the region.
Local Nurses train in Smoking Cessation Techniques
A valuable day of information for health care professionals across the region.
Roughly 50 people participated in a Nurses Association of Ontario 'Smoke Free' Workshop this week.
Public Health Nurse Sue Wood says their goal was to train nurses so they can improve their smoking cessation and brief intervention techniques.
The Nurses Association stresses when nurses intervene, smokers quit.
Roughly 50 people participated in a Nurses Association of Ontario 'Smoke Free' Workshop this week.
Public Health Nurse Sue Wood says their goal was to train nurses so they can improve their smoking cessation and brief intervention techniques.
The Nurses Association stresses when nurses intervene, smokers quit.
OHA head meets with local hospital CEO's
The Ontario Hospital Association is touring Northwestern Ontario this week.
President Tom Closson met with hospital CEO's from across the region yesterday.
Closson says hospitals continue to struggle with patients taking up beds because
they don't have anywhere else to go.
Closson is also asking for a freeze in salaries for unionized hospital workers.
President Tom Closson met with hospital CEO's from across the region yesterday.
Closson says hospitals continue to struggle with patients taking up beds because
they don't have anywhere else to go.
Closson is also asking for a freeze in salaries for unionized hospital workers.
Camp owner upset with NOTO
It looks like it's a war of words between the Northwestern Ontario Tourist Outfitters and some camp owners in northwestern Ontario.
Paul Boucher of Ogoki Frontier Outpost says many resorts feel betrayed by the outfitters association after their land use permit fees went up 800 percent.
Boucher says NOTO had a choice and they chose wrong.
NOTO was responsible for negotiating the rental fee system with the Provincial government.
Paul Boucher of Ogoki Frontier Outpost says many resorts feel betrayed by the outfitters association after their land use permit fees went up 800 percent.
Boucher says NOTO had a choice and they chose wrong.
NOTO was responsible for negotiating the rental fee system with the Provincial government.
Search continues for missing man Southeast of Kenora
A Fort Frances man is the subject of a search at a lake southeast of Kenora.
Provincial police are releasing few details, but Manitou Gold, a mining exploration company doing work in the Manitou chain of lakes, says a vehicle broke through the ice near its exploration project early Wednesday morning.
The company says the man working on its behalf.
His name has not been officially released.
Ontario's Ministry of Labour has also been called to investigate.
Provincial police are releasing few details, but Manitou Gold, a mining exploration company doing work in the Manitou chain of lakes, says a vehicle broke through the ice near its exploration project early Wednesday morning.
The company says the man working on its behalf.
His name has not been officially released.
Ontario's Ministry of Labour has also been called to investigate.
KDMA conference begins today in Red Lake
The 70th annual Kenora District Municipal Association Convention gets underway
today in Red Lake.
Unlike in past years, the City of Kenora is sending a full delegation this year.
Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield says these conferences are important and would
like to see the city take a more active role in the future.
Canfield says councillors will be bringing an emergency resolution to KDMA, asking
the federal and provincial government's to proceed with the twinning of the Trans-Canada
Highway between the Manitoba Border and the Kenora By-Pass.
today in Red Lake.
Unlike in past years, the City of Kenora is sending a full delegation this year.
Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield says these conferences are important and would
like to see the city take a more active role in the future.
Canfield says councillors will be bringing an emergency resolution to KDMA, asking
the federal and provincial government's to proceed with the twinning of the Trans-Canada
Highway between the Manitoba Border and the Kenora By-Pass.
Broncos split with Muskies
Beaver Brae's Court Sport teams managed a split in their games against 
Fort Frances on home court yesterday.
Fort Frances on home court yesterday.The Bronco junior boys earned a 32-16 victory over the Muskies.
Adam Chartrand led the way with 16 points.
The Beaver Brae senior boys dropped a 62-36 decision.
In girls volleyball, the Broncos junior girls got by Fort three games to two,
while the Muskies blanked the senior squad three sets to none.
Today, the annual Kenora Invitational Senior Boys basketball tournament
gets underway up at Beaver Brae.
The Thomas Aquinas Saints hockey team extracted a measure of revenge against
Sioux Lookout last night.
T.A. edged the Warriors 6-5 last night at the Thistle Rink.
The win gives the Saints a 3-2 edged in the season series between the two teams with just one game left in the regular season.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Schools Building Schools Holds Virtual Ground Breaking Ceremony
A virtual ground breaking ceremony has taken place for the Schools Building Schools
project.
Five high schools in Kenora, Dryden, Sioux Lookout and Ignace have raised 17 thousand
dollars to help build a new school in a tiny community in Guatamaula.
Gord LeMaistre is a member of the Kenora Rotary Club and says he was impressed with
the students fundraising efforts.
Amanda Wiebe is the chair of the Schools Building Schools committee at Thomas Aquinas
and says they managed to raise six thousand dollars for the project.
The money helped build a new two room school in the central american country along with
new washroom facilities.
project.
Five high schools in Kenora, Dryden, Sioux Lookout and Ignace have raised 17 thousand
dollars to help build a new school in a tiny community in Guatamaula.
Gord LeMaistre is a member of the Kenora Rotary Club and says he was impressed with
the students fundraising efforts.
Amanda Wiebe is the chair of the Schools Building Schools committee at Thomas Aquinas
and says they managed to raise six thousand dollars for the project.
The money helped build a new two room school in the central american country along with
new washroom facilities.
Questions Raised about new Internet Rates
A northwestern Ontario politician is raising alarm bells about a CRTC decision about
internet rates.
The broadcast regulator says it's okay for internet service providers to put a cap on data downloads.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty says there is a move to get the government
to reverse the policy
Rafferty says such a policy will be disastrous for people in northern Ontario who rely on the Internet
internet rates.
The broadcast regulator says it's okay for internet service providers to put a cap on data downloads.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty says there is a move to get the government
to reverse the policy
Rafferty says such a policy will be disastrous for people in northern Ontario who rely on the Internet
Sioux Lookout Hunters Fined
Tag sharing and providing false information has proved costly for 2-Sioux Lookout men.
The hunters have been fined 45-hundred dollars for various offences.
Court heard that Conservation officers responded to a complaint last November of shots heard in Sioux Lookout.
Officers investigated and found Gregory Marino loading an antlered deer into the back of his pick-up truck.
The animal was tagged with a seal belonging to Carl Bober, who was at work at the time.
Despite having a valid deer seal himself, Marino called Bober and asked for his seal.
Both men made numerous false statements to officers.
The hunters have been fined 45-hundred dollars for various offences.
Court heard that Conservation officers responded to a complaint last November of shots heard in Sioux Lookout.
Officers investigated and found Gregory Marino loading an antlered deer into the back of his pick-up truck.
The animal was tagged with a seal belonging to Carl Bober, who was at work at the time.
Despite having a valid deer seal himself, Marino called Bober and asked for his seal.
Both men made numerous false statements to officers.
Fort Frances Man Survives Trip to Egypt
A northwestern Ontario man is back from Cairo where he says he saw humanity at its worst.
Tristin Hutton says it was chaos on the streets.
The 44-year-old from Fort Frances says he watched rolling battles between police and protesters from his hotel window.
Police used water cannons and tear gas on the protesters who set fire to police vehicles, and fought back with rocks and bats.
He says he didn't see anyone killed but talked to people who did and saw pictures of people being crushed by police vehicles.
The bush pilot was in Egypt on holiday and was visiting his sister who works at the Canadian Embassy.
Tristin Hutton says it was chaos on the streets.
The 44-year-old from Fort Frances says he watched rolling battles between police and protesters from his hotel window.
Police used water cannons and tear gas on the protesters who set fire to police vehicles, and fought back with rocks and bats.
He says he didn't see anyone killed but talked to people who did and saw pictures of people being crushed by police vehicles.
The bush pilot was in Egypt on holiday and was visiting his sister who works at the Canadian Embassy.
Rat Portage Charges Non Residents for Ice Road Access
The Rat Portage First Nation says its now charging non-band members for use of the
ice road through their community.
As of February 1st, the band has set up manned check points at the Gap Road and the Matheson Bay
entrances to the First Nation.
A toll of 25 dollars a day is being charged to drive on the ice road.
A monthly permit of 50 dollars, or a seasonal pass for 75 dollars are also available.
The access passes can be purchased at the Rat Portage Band office.
ice road through their community.
As of February 1st, the band has set up manned check points at the Gap Road and the Matheson Bay
entrances to the First Nation.
A toll of 25 dollars a day is being charged to drive on the ice road.
A monthly permit of 50 dollars, or a seasonal pass for 75 dollars are also available.
The access passes can be purchased at the Rat Portage Band office.
NOTO Defends new Land Use Permit costs
There are a lot of unhappy campers in Northwestern Ontario.
Several area outfitters have written to the Premier upset about an increase to their land use permit fees.
NOTO Executive Director Doug Reynolds says his organization has been listening to the concerns of tourist outfitters from this region.
Reynolds says the industry knew the fees were coming for over three years and he negotiated the best deal he could.
Several area outfitters have written to the Premier upset about an increase to their land use permit fees.
NOTO Executive Director Doug Reynolds says his organization has been listening to the concerns of tourist outfitters from this region.
Reynolds says the industry knew the fees were coming for over three years and he negotiated the best deal he could.
Stand Off Ends Peacefully near Pickle Lake
An 18-year-old man is in custody following an armed stand-off at the Band Office in New Osnaburgh First Nation.
Nishnawbe-Aski Police received a call of an armed suspect at the Security office around 3:30 yesterday morning.
The OPP Crisis Negotiation Team and OPP Tactics and Rescue Unit were called in to assist officers.
The incident was resolved peacefully 8-hours later, with no shots fired.
No formal charges have yet to be laid.
Nishnawbe-Aski Police received a call of an armed suspect at the Security office around 3:30 yesterday morning.
The OPP Crisis Negotiation Team and OPP Tactics and Rescue Unit were called in to assist officers.
The incident was resolved peacefully 8-hours later, with no shots fired.
No formal charges have yet to be laid.
Broncos lose four on the road
It wasn't a good day on the court for Beaver Brae's boys basketball
and girls volleyball teams.
The Broncos were in Dryden yesterday and came away without a win.
In senior boys basketball, The Eagles edged Beaver Brae 32-26.
The Bronco junior boys were upeneded 60-38.
In volleyball action, the Dryden senior girls won in three straight set,
while the Beaver Brae junior girls lost three sets to one.
The Broncos don't have a lot of time to lick their wounds.
All four teams are back in action today with Fort Frances in town.
and girls volleyball teams.
The Broncos were in Dryden yesterday and came away without a win.
In senior boys basketball, The Eagles edged Beaver Brae 32-26.
The Bronco junior boys were upeneded 60-38.
In volleyball action, the Dryden senior girls won in three straight set,
while the Beaver Brae junior girls lost three sets to one.
The Broncos don't have a lot of time to lick their wounds.
All four teams are back in action today with Fort Frances in town.
Thistles lose in Winnipeg
The Kenora Triple "a" midget Thistles will be happy to play at home
again.
The Thistles wrapped up a seven game road swing last night with a
4-1 lost to the Winnipeg Thrashers.
Bowen Alcock scored the lone goal for the Kenora Midgets.
The Thistles are back home this weekend with a pair of games
against the Interlake Lightning.
again.
The Thistles wrapped up a seven game road swing last night with a
4-1 lost to the Winnipeg Thrashers.
Bowen Alcock scored the lone goal for the Kenora Midgets.
The Thistles are back home this weekend with a pair of games
against the Interlake Lightning.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Morning accident on the Redditt Road
Traffic has been moving slower than usual on the Redditt Road this morning.
A two vehicle collision closed Highway 658 down for about an hour.
The road has since been re-opened to two lane traffic.
No other details about the collision have been released.
Meanwhile, the accident has caused some delays for school bus service
along the Redditt Road.
Excel Coachlines says its number 13, 14 and 16 buses are running about
30 minutes behind schedule.
A two vehicle collision closed Highway 658 down for about an hour.
The road has since been re-opened to two lane traffic.
No other details about the collision have been released.
Meanwhile, the accident has caused some delays for school bus service
along the Redditt Road.
Excel Coachlines says its number 13, 14 and 16 buses are running about
30 minutes behind schedule.
Broncos win Battle of Kenora
Beaver Brae's girls hockey team won the battle of Kenora.
The Broncos met the Saints last night at the Kenora Rec. Center and
skated away with a 4-2 victory.
Ainsley Lindquist, Jess Ricklefs, and Sam Smith each scored for Beaver Brae,
while Jody Melillo added an empty netter.
The Broncos are back in action this weekend at home with a pair of games against
the Lake of the Woods Bears from Beaudette, Minnesota.
The Broncos met the Saints last night at the Kenora Rec. Center and
skated away with a 4-2 victory.
Ainsley Lindquist, Jess Ricklefs, and Sam Smith each scored for Beaver Brae,
while Jody Melillo added an empty netter.
The Broncos are back in action this weekend at home with a pair of games against
the Lake of the Woods Bears from Beaudette, Minnesota.
No Increase in Health Unit Levies
The levy charged to municipalities to help fund the Northwestern Health Unit will remain the same as last year.
Chief Administrative Officer of the Health Unit, Mark Perreault says the per capita rate, combined with declines in population, will mean area town and cities will pay less this year than they did in 2010.
Perreault says staff reductions through attrition has allowed the Health Unit to work with less money from municipalities.
Chief Administrative Officer of the Health Unit, Mark Perreault says the per capita rate, combined with declines in population, will mean area town and cities will pay less this year than they did in 2010.
Perreault says staff reductions through attrition has allowed the Health Unit to work with less money from municipalities.
Community Plan in the Works for the Abitibi lands
The Lake of the Woods Economic Development Commission wants to establish
a community improvement plan for the Abitibi lands in Kenora.
Fo-Tenn Consulting met with City council yesterday to outline the process.
Economic Development Officer for the City, Jennifer Findlay says over the next few months, they will
be seeking public input on the Community Improvement Plan.
Findlay says they will be holding a couple of public meetings in coming months to outline some of the incentives that could be offered to businesses willing to re-locate.
a community improvement plan for the Abitibi lands in Kenora.
Fo-Tenn Consulting met with City council yesterday to outline the process.
Economic Development Officer for the City, Jennifer Findlay says over the next few months, they will
be seeking public input on the Community Improvement Plan.
Findlay says they will be holding a couple of public meetings in coming months to outline some of the incentives that could be offered to businesses willing to re-locate.
Atikokan Company first to get new Wood Allocation
Atikokan Renewable Fuels is hoping to begin production of its wood pellet plant later this year after being granted the rights to access 179-thousand cubic metres per year of poplar and birch fibre.The Atikokan plant also received one-point-two million from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund.
Spokesperson Ed Fukushima says that money offsets costs incurred while they waited for wood.
Fukushima says the wood allocation allows them to begin talks with potential customers.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Break-ins reported in Rabblit Lake area
The OPP are investigating another rash of vehicle break-in's in the
Rabbit Lake area.
On Friday, a number of unlocked vehicles located along Rabbit Lake
Road were entered.
A quantity of change, an i-pod and other personal items were stolen.
Anyone with information about these break-ins are asked to contact
the Kenora Detachment of the OPP or Crimestoppers.
Rabbit Lake area.
On Friday, a number of unlocked vehicles located along Rabbit Lake
Road were entered.
A quantity of change, an i-pod and other personal items were stolen.
Anyone with information about these break-ins are asked to contact
the Kenora Detachment of the OPP or Crimestoppers.
Aboriginal Groups Applaud Rickford's Appointment
Aboriginal groups in the region are giving their thumbs up for the appointment of Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford as the new parliamentary assistant for Aboriginal Affairs.
Stan Beardy is the grand Chief of the Nishinabe-Aski Nation and says Rickford's appointment as is a welcome move.
Beardy says the Kenora MP is very familiar with NAN issues
Grand Council Treaty #3 has also given its blessing to Rickford's appointment and hopes
the Harper government lives up to its commitments to first nation education and creating
healthy and sustainable communities.
Stan Beardy is the grand Chief of the Nishinabe-Aski Nation and says Rickford's appointment as is a welcome move.
Beardy says the Kenora MP is very familiar with NAN issues
Grand Council Treaty #3 has also given its blessing to Rickford's appointment and hopes
the Harper government lives up to its commitments to first nation education and creating
healthy and sustainable communities.
Impaired Driving charge results in impounded vehicle
A local woman has learned the hard way about Ontario's new, tougher drinking and
driving laws.
The OPP say over the weekend a 23 year old male and a 19 year old female had their
licences suspended after registering a warning on a roadside breath test.
The 19 year old driver also had her vehicle impounded for seven days.
Under new legislation, there is a zero tolerance level for alcohol for
drivers 21 and under.
The new laws went into effect back in December.
driving laws.
The OPP say over the weekend a 23 year old male and a 19 year old female had their
licences suspended after registering a warning on a roadside breath test.
The 19 year old driver also had her vehicle impounded for seven days.
Under new legislation, there is a zero tolerance level for alcohol for
drivers 21 and under.
The new laws went into effect back in December.
Hampton bullish on the Mining Industry
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton feels this region will benefit from a gold mine long before the so-called Ring of Fire can be adequately developed.Speaking at the Rainy River District Municipal Association meeting on the weekend, Hampton says the northwestern Ontario has everything needed to make a gold mine proposed by Rainy River Resources possible.
Hampton feels it will be at least a decade before any mine in the Ring of Fire is developed because it lacks the necessary infrastructure.
January snowier than norml
The Month of January seemed like a cold and snowy one.
And it was, but there were no record broken.
Severe Weather Specialist for Environment Canada, Geoff Coulson
says the Kenora area had over 50 centimeters of snow last month, which is almost
double the amount we usually get.
Temperature-wise, Kenora was almost normal for the month of
January.
The average daily mean temperature last month was -17.6 celcius,
while the norm is -17.3.
And it was, but there were no record broken.
Severe Weather Specialist for Environment Canada, Geoff Coulson
says the Kenora area had over 50 centimeters of snow last month, which is almost
double the amount we usually get.
Temperature-wise, Kenora was almost normal for the month of
January.
The average daily mean temperature last month was -17.6 celcius,
while the norm is -17.3.
JM Judo Club four for four at Selkirk
It was a golden weekend for the Jaffray Melick Judo Club.
Four members braved the snowy roads and travelled to Selkirk for their annual Open Judo Tournament.
All four fighters came back with gold medals.
Thomas Hertz won the Under 13 boys division with a perfect 3-0 record,
Taylor Tom had a two and 0 record, good enough to win her division, while Luke Heatherington was compiled a 2-0 record to take the Under 20 men's competition.
Daniel Gordon was 3-1 on the day, which also earned him a gold medal in the boys
under 15 division.
Four members braved the snowy roads and travelled to Selkirk for their annual Open Judo Tournament.
All four fighters came back with gold medals.
Thomas Hertz won the Under 13 boys division with a perfect 3-0 record,
Taylor Tom had a two and 0 record, good enough to win her division, while Luke Heatherington was compiled a 2-0 record to take the Under 20 men's competition.
Daniel Gordon was 3-1 on the day, which also earned him a gold medal in the boys
under 15 division.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Police investigate Snowmachine accident
The OPP are continuing to investigate a collision between a snowmachine and a motor vehicle over the weekend.Police say that sometime yesterday, a 15 year old female sledder left the trail and started driving onto Airport Road.
Police say anyone 12 to 15 has to hold a valid snow vehicle operators
licence, but is not permitted to travel on or across any roadway.
Broncos win Silver in Manitoba Girls tournament
A couple of medals for Kenora girls high school hockey teams. In Pilot Mound, Manitoba, the Beaver Brae girls won the silver medal, after dropping a 4-1 decision to the host Pembina Tigers in the tournament final.
Thomas Aquinas Girls hockey team took the bronze medal in that same tournament.
Plans in the works to import more elk to NWO
The Lake of the Woods Elk Restoration Committee is hoping to be able to increase the size of the herd in northwestern Ontario in the next year or so.Kenora.
Murray English is the co-chair of the committee and says because they are no longer allowed to import wild elk from out west, they are looking to southern Ontario now to increase their numbers.
English says it would be 2012 at the earliest to have any elk transported from southwestern Ontario.
Kenora's Relay for Life Team honored
Kenora's Relay for Life team has been singled out for its fundraising efforts.Two members of the local Relay for Life Committee were in Toronto recently to accept an award for Fundraising Development.
Kenora's Relay for Life in 2010 raised more than 77 thousand dollars, which was more than double the previous year.
Co-chair Amanda Van Wallenghem says last year more teams, more people and more money was raised and they want to make this year's event bigger and better.
Rickford shuffles parliamentary secretary duties
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford will have new duties when parliamentresumes sitting today.
to parliamentary secretary for Indian and Northern Affairs.
Rickford replaces Winnipeg M.P. Shelley Glover, who has been shuffled
over as the new parliamentary secretary for Finance.
Rickford just took on his new duties as parliamentary secretary this past
summer.
Parliament Resumes today
Members of Parliament are heading back to Parliament Hill today after a month off.Thunder Bay Rainy River MP John Rafferty says he's anxious over the fate of his pension bill.
He'll be making a last minute plea to his federal counterparts tomorrow.
Rafferty says it's going to be a busy week.
Broncos take silver at Junior KIT
Beaver Brae's junior Boys basketball team had a strong showing at their own Kenora Invitational Tournament.Saturday evening.
Meanwhile, the Kenora Triple "a" midget Thistles split their road games on the weekend.Saturday, the Thistles were blanked 3-0 by the Southwest Cougars.
Yesterday, the Kenora Midgets eked out a 3-2 win over Pembina
Valley Hawks.
In the Casey's men's hockey tournament over the weekend, CHCP took top honors.
The Jeff Richards-led team tripped up Liesure Time 6-1 in the A-side final Sunday afternoon
at the Keewatin arena.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Fort Frances OPP arrest two people for trafficking
The OPP have arrested two people on trafficking charges after pulling over
a vehicle in Emo.
Members of the Community Drug Action team stopped the vehicle yesterday
on Highway 11.
Officers seized over five pounds of marijuana.
The drugs have a street value of about five thousand dollars.
44 year old Carl Meeches and 33 year old Rhonda Johnson, both of Fort Frances
have been charged with possession of a narcotic for the purpose of trafficking.
The duo are scheduled to appear in Fort Frances court next month.
a vehicle in Emo.
Members of the Community Drug Action team stopped the vehicle yesterday
on Highway 11.
Officers seized over five pounds of marijuana.
The drugs have a street value of about five thousand dollars.
44 year old Carl Meeches and 33 year old Rhonda Johnson, both of Fort Frances
have been charged with possession of a narcotic for the purpose of trafficking.
The duo are scheduled to appear in Fort Frances court next month.
Opening Doors back up and running
An after school program for kids in the Kenora area is back up and running with the help of a number of different agencies. The Opening Doors program runs three days a week at Pope John Paul School.
OPP Constable Dave Cain says Opening Doors is targets at kids between the ages of 10 and 14.
Poor road conditions in Manitoba
The RCMP says travel is not recommended on some highways
in Manitoba due to heavy snow and blowing snow.
Visibility is very low in some of the highways in the interlake region where
whiteout conditions have been reported.
A number of weather related accidents on Highway 1 in the Portage la Prairie area have also been reported.
The Trans-Canada between the Ontario/Manitoba border and Winnipeg also has
poor visibility due to snow, with drifting and swirling snow in traffic.
in Manitoba due to heavy snow and blowing snow.
Visibility is very low in some of the highways in the interlake region where
whiteout conditions have been reported.
A number of weather related accidents on Highway 1 in the Portage la Prairie area have also been reported.
The Trans-Canada between the Ontario/Manitoba border and Winnipeg also has
poor visibility due to snow, with drifting and swirling snow in traffic.
High School Sports Resume after Exam Break
After a two week break for exams, local high school sport teams are back inaction.
First up is the annual Kenora Invitational Junior Boys Basketball tournament
up at Beaver Brae.
Teams from across the region will be competing in the two day tournament.
Meanwhile, the Bronco Boys hockey team resumes NorWOSSA league play with a double header against the Red Lake Rams.
The first game is scheduled for this evening at 7:30 at the Kenora Rec. Center.
The same two teams will do battle tomorrow at 2:00.
And the Beaver Brae Girls will also try to knock some rust off as they travel to Pilot Mound for a weekend tournament.
OFIA opposes changes to Endangered Species Act
Greenpeace might think the Forest Industry is getting away scot-free from the Endangered Species Act; but the Ontario Forest Industry Association disagrees.President Jamie Lim says they were promised the industry would be exempt from Caribou habitat legislation but it just hasn't happened.
Fire Chief makes plea for old fire hall alarm bell
Kenora's fire chief has made a passionate plea to keep a couple ofartifacts from the old fire hall on Second Street South.
Warren Brinkman met with the Heritage Committee and members of
city council yesterday to talk about what should be done with the old alarm bell and the call box.
Brinkman wants to bring them up to the new fire hall on Barsky's Hill.
He says local fire fighters can do a better job of protecting the heritage value of those items.
Heritage Kenora says it still wants to see the items remain in the old firehall.
More snow on the way
As if we haven't had enough snow already.Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for the Kenora area.
As much as 15 centimeters could fall today.
Meteorologist Rosemary Tabory says we can expect not just one, but two snow storms back to back.
Tomorrow, another two centimeters of snow could fall in the Kenora area
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Charity Challenge Launched for Winter Carnival
Tourism Kenora says local charity groups are embracing the charity challenge
leading up to this year's Winter Carnival.
Charities will keep 50 percent of the proceeds of any button they sell for
the winter Carnival.
Heather Paterson is Kenora's Tourism Development Officer and says eight charities
have signed up.
The Winter Carnival will take place the first weekend of March and most of the events will take place down at the Harborfront or Mount Evergreen.
leading up to this year's Winter Carnival.
Charities will keep 50 percent of the proceeds of any button they sell for
the winter Carnival.
Heather Paterson is Kenora's Tourism Development Officer and says eight charities
have signed up.
The Winter Carnival will take place the first weekend of March and most of the events will take place down at the Harborfront or Mount Evergreen.
Summer Beaver Fire Update
Two boys, aged 2 and 3, died of smoke inhalation in the January 13th blaze.
A third child, a 6-month-old girl, is said to be doing well in a Pediatic Unit at a London Hospital.
Police say the girl is eating, smiling and interacting with others.
Police confirm the cause of the fire was accidental and no foul play is suspected.
The children's parents suffered no major injuries in the blaze.
BISNO Welcomes new Funding
Brain Injury Support of Northern Ontario says new funding from the
Northwest LHIN's will improve services in the Kenora area.
Alice Bellavance is the executive director of BISNO and says even though
there is no new funding for the Kenora office, the 715 thousand dollars
announced this week, will have some spillover effects locally.
Bellavance says the funding will allow them to put a support worker
in Dryden and Fort Frances, and establish a aboriginal cultural advisor
for Sioux Lookout.
Northwest LHIN's will improve services in the Kenora area.
Alice Bellavance is the executive director of BISNO and says even though
there is no new funding for the Kenora office, the 715 thousand dollars
announced this week, will have some spillover effects locally.
Bellavance says the funding will allow them to put a support worker
in Dryden and Fort Frances, and establish a aboriginal cultural advisor
for Sioux Lookout.
OFIA asks for building code changes
The Ontario Forest Industries Association is calling on the government to change the provincial building code.
President Jamie Lim wants contractors to be able to use lumber in six storey buildings.
She says the amount of wood needed to build those structures could make a huge difference
to the lumber industry in northern Ontario.
Lim says that's just one way the Province can help the region's forest industry.
President Jamie Lim wants contractors to be able to use lumber in six storey buildings.
She says the amount of wood needed to build those structures could make a huge difference
to the lumber industry in northern Ontario.
Lim says that's just one way the Province can help the region's forest industry.
NOMA voices concerns to Finance Committee
The Vice-President of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association says area communities are facing extreme challenges with population declines, rising social costs and declining tax revenues.
Dave Canfield asked for a boost in funding for infrastructure and the Northern Communities Grant at a Provincial Pre-Budget session this morning in Thunder Bay.
Canfield also raised the on-going issue of non-emergent land ambulence transfers in the region.
As well, the Kenora Mayor called for an energy transmission and generation strategy for the North.
Dave Canfield asked for a boost in funding for infrastructure and the Northern Communities Grant at a Provincial Pre-Budget session this morning in Thunder Bay.
Canfield also raised the on-going issue of non-emergent land ambulence transfers in the region.
As well, the Kenora Mayor called for an energy transmission and generation strategy for the North.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Canfield represents City at Pre-Budget Consultations
The provincial government is being urged to cough up more funding for municipalities in northwestern Ontario.That was the plea from Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield, who made a presentation first thing this morning at a pre-budget consultation session in Thunder Bay.
industrial closures, increasing social costs, and declining tax revenues.
Canfield was one of the first presenters this morning.
Ontario Realty Corporation disappears
The Ontario Realty Corporation is in for a change.
The McGuinty government is merging it with another agency.
Liberal MPP Michael Gravelle says he doesn't know exactly how the merger will
affect the Corporation's offices in northwestern Ontario.
Gravelle says the goal is to elimated about 5 per cent of the province's agencies.
The McGuinty government is merging it with another agency.
Liberal MPP Michael Gravelle says he doesn't know exactly how the merger will
affect the Corporation's offices in northwestern Ontario.
Gravelle says the goal is to elimated about 5 per cent of the province's agencies.
New funding for BISNO
The Northwest LHIN is rolling out a number of new programs for residents living with brain injuries.
715-thousand dollars is being used to offer a variety of programs across the region.
A family therapist will work with families in the region, while program facilitators will be posted in Dryden, Fort Frances and in Thunder Bay.
715-thousand dollars is being used to offer a variety of programs across the region.
A family therapist will work with families in the region, while program facilitators will be posted in Dryden, Fort Frances and in Thunder Bay.
Changes in store for Endanged Species Act
Good news for forest companies in northern Ontario, but environmental groups are cryingfoul.
The provincial government is proposing changes to the Endangered Species Act which would
make forest companies exempt from provisions dealing with woodland caribou.
Catherine Grant is a spokesperson for Greenpeace and says they actively been working with
forest companies on the issue.
Grant says they will be bringing back their Caribou Caravan this spring and target ridings
held by provincial cabinet ministers.
Pre-Budget Hearings stop in NWO
The government's pre-budget committee makes its only stop in northwestern Ontario today.
It's chair MPP Pat Hoy says he expects to hear the usual concerns in the northwest like transportation along with forestry and mining
The morning opens with a presentation from Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield on behalf of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association
It's chair MPP Pat Hoy says he expects to hear the usual concerns in the northwest like transportation along with forestry and mining
The morning opens with a presentation from Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield on behalf of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Ice Roads almost Ready
Ice roads to remote First Nations across northwestern Ontario are beginning to open up to light vehicle traffic.
But the routes over frozen lakes and swamps are still not strong enough to support heavy supply transports and fuel trucks.
At Bearskin Lake First Nation, residents started driving south on the weekend.
That road runs through Muskrat Dam First Nation, with links to Weagamow Lake, Keewaywin, Koocheching and Sachigo Lake First Nations.
The road opening is a little late this year due to the heavy snow the area has received.
Supplies, like wood for building houses, had to be flown in later than usual,
by costly air transportation.
There are almost three-thousand kilometres of ice roads in northern Ontario.
But the routes over frozen lakes and swamps are still not strong enough to support heavy supply transports and fuel trucks.
At Bearskin Lake First Nation, residents started driving south on the weekend.
That road runs through Muskrat Dam First Nation, with links to Weagamow Lake, Keewaywin, Koocheching and Sachigo Lake First Nations.
The road opening is a little late this year due to the heavy snow the area has received.
Supplies, like wood for building houses, had to be flown in later than usual,
by costly air transportation.
There are almost three-thousand kilometres of ice roads in northern Ontario.
Early Morning Drug bust on the By-Pass
A 28 year old Fort Frances woman has been arrested after being pulledover on the Kenora By-pass.
Acting on a tip, the officers stopped the vehicle shortly after 3:00 this
morning and discovered about 50 oxycodone pills, with a street value
of about 54 hundred dollars.
Police say the pills were bound for the Big Grassy First Nation and Fort Frances.
Lindsay Copenace has been charged with possession of a narcotic for the
purpose of trafficking.
She's due to appear in Kenora Court on February 28th to answer the charge.
Canfield to appear before Pre-Budget Consultations
The provincial finance committee will likely get an earful when it makes a pit stop
in Thunder Bay.
Tomorrow's pre-budget consultation is the only one taking place in northwestern
Ontario.
Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield will be making a presentation not only on behalf
of the city, but also for the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association.
He's upset with the lack of notice municipalities were given to attend the session.
Canfield says he only has about five minutes to make a presentation on behalf
of the city, and will focus on funding to repair municipal bridges and road, and
the municipal infrastructure deficit.
in Thunder Bay.
Tomorrow's pre-budget consultation is the only one taking place in northwestern
Ontario.
Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield will be making a presentation not only on behalf
of the city, but also for the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association.
He's upset with the lack of notice municipalities were given to attend the session.
Canfield says he only has about five minutes to make a presentation on behalf
of the city, and will focus on funding to repair municipal bridges and road, and
the municipal infrastructure deficit.
Sioux Narrows Man fined
A Sioux Narrows man has been fined 800 dollars for failing to attach a tag
to a deer he had killed.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says Conservation Officers came upon
Christopher Frenette in the Maybrun Road area near Sioux Narrows
last month.
He had a white-tailed deer fawn on the rack of the snowmobile he was
riding.
The MNR says even though he had a antlerless game seal for the area,
he failed to attach it.
The deer was forfeited to the crown, and his firearm will be returned once
the fine has been paid.
to a deer he had killed.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says Conservation Officers came upon
Christopher Frenette in the Maybrun Road area near Sioux Narrows
last month.
He had a white-tailed deer fawn on the rack of the snowmobile he was
riding.
The MNR says even though he had a antlerless game seal for the area,
he failed to attach it.
The deer was forfeited to the crown, and his firearm will be returned once
the fine has been paid.
OPP warn of another Phone Scam
Local residents are being warned about another phone scam that's
been reported in the Kenora area.
The OPP say someone has been calling local homes, saying they work for the local court house
The caller goes on to say they are attempting to clear up minor outstanding fines in the community and they then offer the chance to pay your outstanding fine over the phone by credit card.
Police say often there are no outstanding fines, but some people have been paying without
first checking with the local court house.
The OPP say court offices do not use this method to collect outstanding fines.
been reported in the Kenora area.
The OPP say someone has been calling local homes, saying they work for the local court house
The caller goes on to say they are attempting to clear up minor outstanding fines in the community and they then offer the chance to pay your outstanding fine over the phone by credit card.
Police say often there are no outstanding fines, but some people have been paying without
first checking with the local court house.
The OPP say court offices do not use this method to collect outstanding fines.
Long Form Census Coming
Use your voice and take part in the 2011 long-form census.
That message is being pushed by the Union of Ontario Indians.
Grand Chief Patrick Madahbee says they've struck a deal with Statistics Canada to hire aboriginals to collect the data from area reserves.
The data collected by Stats Canada is then later used by the Provincial and Federal Governments for funding allocations.
That message is being pushed by the Union of Ontario Indians.
Grand Chief Patrick Madahbee says they've struck a deal with Statistics Canada to hire aboriginals to collect the data from area reserves.
The data collected by Stats Canada is then later used by the Provincial and Federal Governments for funding allocations.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Slippery conditions result in numerous weekend accidents
There wasn't a lot of snow over the weekend, but what did fall seemed to cause a lot of problems for local motorists.The OPP say over the past couple of days they were called out to 19 motor vehicle collisions in the Kenora area.
While no serious injuries were reported, police says the collisions did cause significant damage to the vehicles involved.
The OPP says most of the accidents were the result of drivers not
adapting to the road conditions and not staying alert.
Federal Government preparing for March Budget
Kenora MP Greg Rickford admits Canada is still pulling out of financial hardship and that will impact the upcoming Federal budget.The Government is working on the fiscal document.
However, Rickford says taxpayers won't see massive cuts.
Market bullish on Rainy River Resources
Analysts are looking for big things from Rainy River Resources this year as the junior exploration company recently closed a 75-million dollar financing arrangement and released its latest drilling results.
The company, which is developing a gold project south of Kenora, says the infill drilling results also opened up new areas for potential expansion.
RBC analyst Stephen Walker says on-going results will be the prime catalyst driving share prices until the company releases its resource update this spring.
The company, which is developing a gold project south of Kenora, says the infill drilling results also opened up new areas for potential expansion.
RBC analyst Stephen Walker says on-going results will be the prime catalyst driving share prices until the company releases its resource update this spring.
RESPECT program to be expanded
A local committee is looking at how to expand Confederation College's RESPECT campaign across the the region.
Trudy McCormick, co-chair of the Celebrating Diversity committee says the campaign, recognizing the value of diversity, would be a good fit for the area.
McCormick says they've formed a separate committee to review how aspects of the RESPECT campaign can be adopted.
Trudy McCormick, co-chair of the Celebrating Diversity committee says the campaign, recognizing the value of diversity, would be a good fit for the area.
McCormick says they've formed a separate committee to review how aspects of the RESPECT campaign can be adopted.
Ontario wins softwood ruling
The Ontario government says it's pleased with an international tribunal's decision on softwood lumber.
The ruling limits an additional export tax on Ontario softwood lumber to just one-tenth of a per cent, dramatically lower than the 20 per cent the U.S. requested.
The tribunal rejected found that Ontario's forestry programs had no significant adverse impact on U-S producers.
The ruling limits an additional export tax on Ontario softwood lumber to just one-tenth of a per cent, dramatically lower than the 20 per cent the U.S. requested.
The tribunal rejected found that Ontario's forestry programs had no significant adverse impact on U-S producers.
Tourism Group complains about access to Crown Land
A northern Ontario recreational group says the Ministry of Natural Resources is blocking local access to lakes and rivers in favour of foreign-based tourist outfitters.
The Ontario Outdoors Recreational Alliance complains the ministry closes logging roads to prevent residents and local tour companies from driving into remote areas to hunt, fish or canoe.
Alliance president Tom Brason says the government is keeping locals out at the request of remote tourist operators who fly customers into camps on Crown lands.
Brason says a select group of remote-based outfitters is controlling vast areas of Crown land.
The Ontario Outdoors Recreational Alliance complains the ministry closes logging roads to prevent residents and local tour companies from driving into remote areas to hunt, fish or canoe.
Alliance president Tom Brason says the government is keeping locals out at the request of remote tourist operators who fly customers into camps on Crown lands.
Brason says a select group of remote-based outfitters is controlling vast areas of Crown land.
Thistles win pair of games on the road
A trip to Dauphin was just what the Kenora Triple "a" midget Thistles needed to
break a mini two game losing streak.
The Thistles won both of their games on the road this weekend.
Yesterday, the Kenora Midgets earned a 4-1 win over the Parkland Rangers.
That moved the Thistles out of the basement of the eastern Division of the
Manitoba Midget Hockey league.
On Saturday night, the Thistles dropped the Rangers 6-4.
Tim McFatridge had a pair of goals and two assists in that game.
break a mini two game losing streak.
The Thistles won both of their games on the road this weekend.
Yesterday, the Kenora Midgets earned a 4-1 win over the Parkland Rangers.
That moved the Thistles out of the basement of the eastern Division of the
Manitoba Midget Hockey league.
On Saturday night, the Thistles dropped the Rangers 6-4.
Tim McFatridge had a pair of goals and two assists in that game.
J and M Judo Club collects three medals in Regina
Three members of the Jaffray Melick Judo Club took home three medals from the
Saskatchewan Open Judo Championships this past weekend in Regina.
Kaitie Dennis won her Under 20, 57 kilo division and took home gold.
Both Luke Heatherington and Daniel Gordon settled for bronze.
The tournament was a tune-up for the Canada Winter Games taking place in
Halifax next month.
Saskatchewan Open Judo Championships this past weekend in Regina.
Kaitie Dennis won her Under 20, 57 kilo division and took home gold.
Both Luke Heatherington and Daniel Gordon settled for bronze.
The tournament was a tune-up for the Canada Winter Games taking place in
Halifax next month.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Countdown begins for 2011 Allan Cup
The Countdown has officially started for the 2011 Allan Cup Senior Men's
Hockey Championships in Kenora.
The puck will drop in 80 days.
Judy Bain is one of the local organizers of the event and says individual
tickets won't go on sale until the end of March, after ticket package sales
have wrapped up.
The Allan Cup will run from April 11th to the 16th, at the Kenora Rec. Center.
Hockey Championships in Kenora.
The puck will drop in 80 days.
Judy Bain is one of the local organizers of the event and says individual
tickets won't go on sale until the end of March, after ticket package sales
have wrapped up.
The Allan Cup will run from April 11th to the 16th, at the Kenora Rec. Center.
Warmer Weather on the Way!
It looks like there is an end in sight for our current cold snap.
By Sunday, the temperature should start to moderate.
Bill Laidlaw from Signal Weather Services says unfortunately
there is expected to be some snow accomanying the warmer weather.
Temperatures across northwestern Ontario have been unseasonably
cold, with the thermometer dipping to -44 in Fort Frances this morning.
By Sunday, the temperature should start to moderate.
Bill Laidlaw from Signal Weather Services says unfortunately
there is expected to be some snow accomanying the warmer weather.
Temperatures across northwestern Ontario have been unseasonably
cold, with the thermometer dipping to -44 in Fort Frances this morning.
Prescription Drugs an increasing problem for local police
Alcohol is still the drug of choice in Kenora, but that's slowly starting tochange.
Inspector Dave Lucas says they are seeing an increase in the trafficking
of prescription drugs in the community.
Lucas says the OPP Street Crimes Unit and Joint Force Drug Unit met with local pharmasists last month to discuss the problem.
He says another meeting is planned in the new year to look at strategies
for combatting the trafficking in prescription drugs.
Taxi Rates going down?
It's soon going to cost a bit less to hail a cab in Kenora.
Taxi rates will be going down if city council approves the recommended rate
change.
Eric Lovas from Co-Ot Taxi made a deputation to council this
week, recommending the rate drop.
Lovas says they want to get rid of the pennies on their meters,
which was added last July thanks to the HST.
Taxi rates will be going down if city council approves the recommended rate
change.
Eric Lovas from Co-Ot Taxi made a deputation to council this
week, recommending the rate drop.
Lovas says they want to get rid of the pennies on their meters,
which was added last July thanks to the HST.
Rickford says Tories don't want spring Election
The MP for Kenora is insisting that the Conservatives don't want a Federal election.
Greg Rickford says we are still emerging from a fragile economy and most Canadians don't want to head to the polls.
Rickford notes that his party has no intention of calling an election, despite a rise in popularity in the polls.
Rickford says the Government had a relatively productive session of Parliament this Fall and he would like to see that trend continue.
Greg Rickford says we are still emerging from a fragile economy and most Canadians don't want to head to the polls.
Rickford notes that his party has no intention of calling an election, despite a rise in popularity in the polls.
Rickford says the Government had a relatively productive session of Parliament this Fall and he would like to see that trend continue.
NOMA Supports Policing Resolution
The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association is supporting a resolution calling on
the provincial government to provide more funding for police services.
Kenora mayor Dave Canfield says the cost of policing locally has skyrocketed
and says they want the government to increase their grants under the Ontario Municipal Partnership
Fund.
The NOMA Board met last week in Thunder Bay to approve the new resolution.
the provincial government to provide more funding for police services.
Kenora mayor Dave Canfield says the cost of policing locally has skyrocketed
and says they want the government to increase their grants under the Ontario Municipal Partnership
Fund.
The NOMA Board met last week in Thunder Bay to approve the new resolution.
MNR investigates illegal moose Kills
At least 20 moose in northern Ontario were illegally killed this past hunting
season.
The Ministry of Natural Resources is now actively investigating these incidents.
Ken Ukrainetz is a MNR conservation officer and says in most instances, the
moose are simply left to rot in the bush.
Two moose were illegally killed near Vermillion Bay, while another
incident under investigation took place near Ear Falls.
season.
The Ministry of Natural Resources is now actively investigating these incidents.
Ken Ukrainetz is a MNR conservation officer and says in most instances, the
moose are simply left to rot in the bush.
Two moose were illegally killed near Vermillion Bay, while another
incident under investigation took place near Ear Falls.
New Firearms Regulations coming
The Ministry of Natural Resources is looking to make it illegal to carry a loaded firearm along any road or right of way in the Kenora and Rainy River districts.
It's now illegal to shoot from a roadway.
John Dungavel of the Ministry's policy branch says public concerns about safety prompted the additional regulation.
Dungavel says the new rule could be in place this fall.
It's now illegal to shoot from a roadway.
John Dungavel of the Ministry's policy branch says public concerns about safety prompted the additional regulation.
Dungavel says the new rule could be in place this fall.
Saints lose to Warriors at Home
The Thomas Aquinas boys hockey team missed a chance to move up in the NorWOSSASingle "a" standings.
The Saints were pummelled 9-3 by the Sioux Lookout Warriors last night at the Thistle
Rink.
The win moves Sioux Lookout into a tie in the standings with T.A. with just two games left to play in
the regular season.
The Saints are back in action on Saturday evening against Beaver Brae in an exhibition game
at the Rec. Center.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Provincial Women's Curling Championships Coming to Kenora
The Kenora Curling Club has landed another prestigious event.to town next year.
Kenora beat out three other communities in northern Ontario for the
right to host the Scotties provincial playdowns.
The Scotties will take place at the end of January in 2012 and will feature
10 of the best women's curling teams in Ontario.
KDSB wants Ombudsman to look at local Ambulence Issues
An ombudsman review of private companies that transfer hundreds of thousands of non-critical patients will have no impact on operations locally.
That according to Kenora District Services Board CAO Sten Lif who states that no such service is available here at home.
Lif says there was some talk of someone setting up shop in Sioux Lookout.
Lif is urging the Ombudsman to expand the review to decide whether or not non-emergency transfers should be provided.
That according to Kenora District Services Board CAO Sten Lif who states that no such service is available here at home.
Lif says there was some talk of someone setting up shop in Sioux Lookout.
Lif is urging the Ombudsman to expand the review to decide whether or not non-emergency transfers should be provided.
Police Board looks at Illegal Taxi Issue
The issue of illegal taxis operating in the City of Kenora has been
brought to the attention of the Police Services Board.
Mayor Dave Canfield submitted a letter from a local cab company
about the problem.
Inspector Dave Lucas says they have assigned one of their officers
to deal with the issue and are also working with administration at
city hall.
The Board will be presented an update at their next meeting at the
end of February.
brought to the attention of the Police Services Board.
Mayor Dave Canfield submitted a letter from a local cab company
about the problem.
Inspector Dave Lucas says they have assigned one of their officers
to deal with the issue and are also working with administration at
city hall.
The Board will be presented an update at their next meeting at the
end of February.
More Money for FedNor
The Federal Government is adding just over 1.1 million dollars to FedNor.
Industry Minister Tony Clement made the announcement yesterday and says this investment will help continue to grow business and create jobs in the Northwest.
Clement says there will also be some small changes to FedNor coming that will see it focus more on economic growth.
Industry Minister Tony Clement made the announcement yesterday and says this investment will help continue to grow business and create jobs in the Northwest.
Clement says there will also be some small changes to FedNor coming that will see it focus more on economic growth.
Snowmobile Safety Week
The Ontario Provincial Police and Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs are asking snowmobilers to make smart choices this winter.
This is Provincial Snowmobile Safety Week.
Sergeant Michael Price says 5-people have died in collisions in Ontario this winter.
A 55-year-old man died when his snowmachine went through the ice on Longpine Lake, near Kenora last month.
This is Provincial Snowmobile Safety Week.
Sergeant Michael Price says 5-people have died in collisions in Ontario this winter.
A 55-year-old man died when his snowmachine went through the ice on Longpine Lake, near Kenora last month.
Wasacase back as Chair of Kenora Police Services Board
A familiar face is back as chair of the Kenora Police Services Board.
Colin Wasacase was acclaimed to the position yesterday.
Wasacase takes over from Glenda McMillan, who served just one
year as chair of the police board.
McMillan was acclaimed as vice-chair.
Colin Wasacase was acclaimed to the position yesterday.
Wasacase takes over from Glenda McMillan, who served just one
year as chair of the police board.
McMillan was acclaimed as vice-chair.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Weedless Wednesday
Today is Weedless Wednesday a day when people are encouraged to try and kick their
smoking habit.
Dr. Karen Mazurski is a local anti-smoking advocate and says tobacco is a highly addictive substance and stresses one can't quit overnight.
Mazurski notes that quitting for even a couple of days is beneficial as people learn from each quit attempt.
smoking habit.
Dr. Karen Mazurski is a local anti-smoking advocate and says tobacco is a highly addictive substance and stresses one can't quit overnight.
Mazurski notes that quitting for even a couple of days is beneficial as people learn from each quit attempt.
Changes in store for FedNOR?
Major changes may be in store for Northern Ontario's funding body.
There are reports that top officials with FedNor have been sequestered in Sudbury to discuss the future direction of the Federal agency.
Kenora MP Greg Rickford the goal is to make a better economic development agency for the region.
Rickford believes this Region will see an even better FedNor operating in the near future.
There are reports that top officials with FedNor have been sequestered in Sudbury to discuss the future direction of the Federal agency.
Kenora MP Greg Rickford the goal is to make a better economic development agency for the region.
Rickford believes this Region will see an even better FedNor operating in the near future.
Freedom of the City Distinction being Sought
Its kind of like getting the key to the city.Kenora's 116th Independant Field Battery has requested the honorary designation of Freedom of the City.
Colonel Woody Linton says the honor is given to an organization that
has provided heroic service to the community.
Linton says if city council grants the request, they will start the ball rolling
with the Department of National Defense for the honorary distinction.
Not too late for a flu shot
Northwestern Health Unit's medical officer of health says the new strain of flu concerning health officials this year isn't posing many problems in this area yet.
H-3-N-2 has strained medical services elsewhere in the province, especially southern Ontario
in and around Toronto.
Doctor James Arthurs says because of its inactivity here, it doesn't mean people should avoid getting the flu shot.
Arthurs says this year's flu shot includes a vaccine to combat the new strain.
H-3-N-2 has strained medical services elsewhere in the province, especially southern Ontario
in and around Toronto.
Doctor James Arthurs says because of its inactivity here, it doesn't mean people should avoid getting the flu shot.
Arthurs says this year's flu shot includes a vaccine to combat the new strain.
City continues to seek funding for Harborfront Tent
The City of Kenora is doing what it can to make a year-round tent on the
Kenora Harborfront a reality.
Kenora mayor Dave Canfield says while they don't have any money budgeted
for the structure, they continue to seek out alternate sources of funding.
Earlier this week a local business owner pledged five thousand dollars towards the
estimated 1.5 million dollar cost of the new tent.
Kenora Harborfront a reality.
Kenora mayor Dave Canfield says while they don't have any money budgeted
for the structure, they continue to seek out alternate sources of funding.
Earlier this week a local business owner pledged five thousand dollars towards the
estimated 1.5 million dollar cost of the new tent.
Snow removal budget tapped out
All the snow this winter has been hard on the City of Kenora's
Budget.
Mayor Dave Canfield says if its keeps snowing, at some point
the city may no longer be able to afford to remove it all.
Canfield says crews would continue to plow the downtown core and
major traffic routes, but they may not be able to do every street in the city
for much longer.
Budget.
Mayor Dave Canfield says if its keeps snowing, at some point
the city may no longer be able to afford to remove it all.
Canfield says crews would continue to plow the downtown core and
major traffic routes, but they may not be able to do every street in the city
for much longer.
Funding Sought for Early Learning programs
The Kenora District Services Board says it wants the Ministry of Education
to come up with some capital funds renovate schools in the region so they
can host Early Learning and Care Centers and Best Start programs.
The Board says the province has not provided any funding for alterations or
renovations to existing schools.
Last April, the province transferred responsibility for early years programming
to the Ministry of Education from the Ministry of Children and Youth Services.
The KDSB says the lack of funding for early learning centers is not in the best
interests of children and goes against the Ministry of Education's vision of creating
the best opportunities for children to learn.
to come up with some capital funds renovate schools in the region so they
can host Early Learning and Care Centers and Best Start programs.
The Board says the province has not provided any funding for alterations or
renovations to existing schools.
Last April, the province transferred responsibility for early years programming
to the Ministry of Education from the Ministry of Children and Youth Services.
The KDSB says the lack of funding for early learning centers is not in the best
interests of children and goes against the Ministry of Education's vision of creating
the best opportunities for children to learn.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Police Issue Warning about local Ice Conditions
Despite the recent cold weather, the OPP are warning local residents to
make sure of ice conditions before you venture out on local lakes and
rivers.
Over the weekend, the OPP say they were notified about a hole that
had opened up on Laurenson's Creek near K-Sports.
Officers investigated and say it appears that no-one fell through the ice at that location.
Police add that anyone heading out on the ice should have the proper
safety equipment, including a floatation device, a tow rope, a set of ice
picks and crampons.
make sure of ice conditions before you venture out on local lakes and
rivers.
Over the weekend, the OPP say they were notified about a hole that
had opened up on Laurenson's Creek near K-Sports.
Officers investigated and say it appears that no-one fell through the ice at that location.
Police add that anyone heading out on the ice should have the proper
safety equipment, including a floatation device, a tow rope, a set of ice
picks and crampons.
New Chair chosen for Kenora District Services Board
A total revamping of the Kenora District Services Board.
Ten new faces sit on the 13-member Board of Directors.
Returning member Phil Vinet of Red Lake has been been elected Chair, replacing Rory MacMillian who is no longer the Kenora representative.
Vinet expressed interest in the Chair's seat and was unopposed at the first KDSB meeting of 2011, even though he is vacationing in Hawaii.
Louis Roussin is the new representative for the City of Kenora.
Other local members on the district services board include Barry Baltesson
and Irene Kember representing the unincorporated areas.
Ten new faces sit on the 13-member Board of Directors.
Returning member Phil Vinet of Red Lake has been been elected Chair, replacing Rory MacMillian who is no longer the Kenora representative.
Vinet expressed interest in the Chair's seat and was unopposed at the first KDSB meeting of 2011, even though he is vacationing in Hawaii.
Louis Roussin is the new representative for the City of Kenora.
Other local members on the district services board include Barry Baltesson
and Irene Kember representing the unincorporated areas.
Big Pledge for Harborfront Tent
A local business man is putting his money where his mouth is.Bruce Krawicki from Best Way Rentals says he would like the City of Kenora to go ahead with the installation of a new tent down on the Harborfront.
After making his deputation, Krawicki then presented a cheque for five thousand dollars to council to go towards the tent fund.
The city is getting ready to put out a tender for the project to find out exactly how much a tent will cost.
Foul Play Ruled out in fatal fire
Residents of a close-knit remote northwestern Ontario First Nation of Summer Beaver are mourning the loss of two infants in a house fire.
Two boys, aged two and three, died in the fire last Thursday afternoon.
A 6-month-old girl suffered smoke inhalation and is listed in critical but stable condition at the Children's Hospital in London.
Police say the child is experiencing breathing complications but has no burn injuries.
The children's parents suffered no major injuries in the fire.
Police say that the fire was likely accidental but the exact cause isn't known.
Two boys, aged two and three, died in the fire last Thursday afternoon.
A 6-month-old girl suffered smoke inhalation and is listed in critical but stable condition at the Children's Hospital in London.
Police say the child is experiencing breathing complications but has no burn injuries.
The children's parents suffered no major injuries in the fire.
Police say that the fire was likely accidental but the exact cause isn't known.
Dryden City Council Votes against Police Costing
Dryden Council has endorsed the Municipal Police Services as the law enforcement agency of choice.
Council voted 3 against 1 in favour of not entering into a police costing study, with 3-councilors forced to declare a conflict.
Mayor Craig Nuttall voted against the resolution stating he has concerns about the Police Service budget.
Councilor Mike Wood says they can't afford to lose community policing and suggests that switching to
the OPP would result in the loss of control of their police service.
Council voted 3 against 1 in favour of not entering into a police costing study, with 3-councilors forced to declare a conflict.
Mayor Craig Nuttall voted against the resolution stating he has concerns about the Police Service budget.
Councilor Mike Wood says they can't afford to lose community policing and suggests that switching to
the OPP would result in the loss of control of their police service.
Abitibi Vows more Cost-Cutting
AbitibiBowater is planning further cost cutting at some of its Canadian mills.
C-E-O Richard Garneau says with the Canadian dollar hovering around par with the U-S greenback, the company needs to have a similar cost structure on both sides of the border.
Garneau declined to identify the targeted mills or indicate how much more costly they are to operate than their U-S counterparts.
C-E-O Richard Garneau says with the Canadian dollar hovering around par with the U-S greenback, the company needs to have a similar cost structure on both sides of the border.
Garneau declined to identify the targeted mills or indicate how much more costly they are to operate than their U-S counterparts.
Crimestoppers turns 25 in NWO
The Crimestoppers program in Northwestern Ontario and Northern Minnesota is celebrating
a major milestone this year.
It turns 25 year old.
Bill Harrington is the chairman of the Crimestoppers board and says they've seen a lot of growth
in the last quarter-century.
Last year Crimestoppers received 564 tips from residents in northwestern Ontario and
Northern Minnesota and approved over 14 thousand dollars in rewards for those tips.
a major milestone this year.
It turns 25 year old.
Bill Harrington is the chairman of the Crimestoppers board and says they've seen a lot of growth
in the last quarter-century.
Last year Crimestoppers received 564 tips from residents in northwestern Ontario and
Northern Minnesota and approved over 14 thousand dollars in rewards for those tips.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
