The Agricultural community will be front and centre starting today at Kenora kicks off its 98th fair.
Organizer Carol Kurz says there will be plenty of entertainment and activities for young and old.
Kurz notes the Farmer Olymics will be held on Saturday.
The fair opens its doors this evening at 6 and closes at midnight.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
2009 Roads Work
Kenora City Council will be spending over a million dollars on improving area roads.
The 2009 Roads Program tender was awarded to Pioneer construction, and includes five streets and one lane.
Operations Chair Dave McCann explains how much of the bill the City will be responsible for.
McCann notes resurface and grading work will begin in the near future.
The 2009 Roads Program tender was awarded to Pioneer construction, and includes five streets and one lane.
Operations Chair Dave McCann explains how much of the bill the City will be responsible for.
McCann notes resurface and grading work will begin in the near future.
Health Unit Funding
The Northwestern Health Unit is getting over 300 thousand dollarsfrom the provincial government to test water systems in the region.
Starting this year, the Health Unit is taking over testing smaller water systems at resorts and fly-in fishing camps from the Ministry of the Environment.
The money will help train health unit employees and pay for travel to remote parts of the Kenora and Rainy River Districts.
The Health Unit estimates it will take about three years to inspect about 12 hundred water systems.
Starting this year, the Health Unit is taking over testing smaller water systems at resorts and fly-in fishing camps from the Ministry of the Environment.
The money will help train health unit employees and pay for travel to remote parts of the Kenora and Rainy River Districts.
The Health Unit estimates it will take about three years to inspect about 12 hundred water systems.
Shoal Lake #39 on Highway 17
A first nation community located near the Manitoba border says itsconcerned about plans to twin the Trans-Canada Highway to Kenora.
Chief of Shoal Lake #39, Eli Mandamin says his community has neverbeen consulted about the multi-million dollar project.
Mandamin says he has written to Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford asking fora meeting about plans to double lane Highway 17, but so far he hasn't heard from anyone from either the federal or provincial governments.
Chief of Shoal Lake #39, Eli Mandamin says his community has neverbeen consulted about the multi-million dollar project.
Mandamin says he has written to Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford asking fora meeting about plans to double lane Highway 17, but so far he hasn't heard from anyone from either the federal or provincial governments.
NAN Self Governance
After 12 years of talks, the Nishnawbe Aski Nation is closing inon self-governance.
NAN representatives and federal officials signed two agreementsin principle yesterday to allow the First Nation to move into the next phase of its ultimate goal -- self-governance and jurisdiction over education.
The northern Ontario First Nation's negotiating committee will now take the agreements in principle back to its respectivecommunities and ask for their support to move onto the next phase of negotiations.
NAN representatives and federal officials signed two agreementsin principle yesterday to allow the First Nation to move into the next phase of its ultimate goal -- self-governance and jurisdiction over education.
The northern Ontario First Nation's negotiating committee will now take the agreements in principle back to its respectivecommunities and ask for their support to move onto the next phase of negotiations.
Caribou Wildlands League
An environmental group is urging the Ontario government to haltall logging and road building in endangered woodland caribou habitat.
The Wildlands League says six out of nine known populations belowthe 51st parallel are at risk of collapsing.
The group says former habitats of six caribou populations havealready been disturbed by logging and wildfires and may no longersustain the species.
Woodland caribou are protected under Ontario's new Endangered Species Act but the government is still developing its conservation plan.
The Wildlands League says six out of nine known populations belowthe 51st parallel are at risk of collapsing.
The group says former habitats of six caribou populations havealready been disturbed by logging and wildfires and may no longersustain the species.
Woodland caribou are protected under Ontario's new Endangered Species Act but the government is still developing its conservation plan.
Anniversary Bus Beheading
A vigil to mark the one-year anniversary of the beheading of a Winnipeg man on a Greyhound bus will be held tonight at the Manitoba legislature.
The death of Tim McLean still haunts passengers who were aboardthe bus where Vince Li attacked McLean.
Li was found not-criminally responsible for his actions at ashort trial in March.
The death of Tim McLean still haunts passengers who were aboardthe bus where Vince Li attacked McLean.
Li was found not-criminally responsible for his actions at ashort trial in March.
Thunder Bay Labs Amelia Earheart
The decades-long mystery of the disappearance of American aviator Amelia Earhart might finally be solved next year with the help of two Thunder Bay, Ontario, labs.
American Ric Gillespie and his team from TIGHAR will head to thewestern Pacific island of Nikumaroro next May.
That's where they think Earhart was left stranded and died after her plane crashed as she tried to fly around the world in 1937.
They hope to collect items that have her D-N-A on them.
Gillespie says they already have a D-N-A sample from a relative.
During a 2007 expedition, Gillespie's team collected a sample that had human D-N-A.
Two Thunder Bay labs -- Genesis Genomics and Molecular World -- tested it and the results came in this spring.
But the sample didn't match a great-niece of Earhart.
It turned out to be contaminated with Gillespie's own D-N-A becausehe handled the sample.
American Ric Gillespie and his team from TIGHAR will head to thewestern Pacific island of Nikumaroro next May.
That's where they think Earhart was left stranded and died after her plane crashed as she tried to fly around the world in 1937.
They hope to collect items that have her D-N-A on them.
Gillespie says they already have a D-N-A sample from a relative.
During a 2007 expedition, Gillespie's team collected a sample that had human D-N-A.
Two Thunder Bay labs -- Genesis Genomics and Molecular World -- tested it and the results came in this spring.
But the sample didn't match a great-niece of Earhart.
It turned out to be contaminated with Gillespie's own D-N-A becausehe handled the sample.
NW LHIN Funding
The North West Local Health Integration Network is investing over 188-thousand dollars in the region.
The money will go towards 16 supportive housing units to help people living with addictions increase stability and security in their lives.
The supportive housing units will also help reduce pressure on hospital emergency rooms.
The local announcement is part of a larger funding initiative of 16-million province-wide.
A list of specific housing units benefiting hasn't been released.
The money will go towards 16 supportive housing units to help people living with addictions increase stability and security in their lives.
The supportive housing units will also help reduce pressure on hospital emergency rooms.
The local announcement is part of a larger funding initiative of 16-million province-wide.
A list of specific housing units benefiting hasn't been released.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
More Fire Help for B.C.
Another 19-firefighters from this Region are scheduled to leave for British Columbia today.
They will join another 19-from other parts of Ontario, bringing the total Provincial commitment to 333.
B.C. is currently faced with an extreme fire hazard, with large blazes currently burning.
The forest fire hazard in Northwestern Ontario remains low.
They will join another 19-from other parts of Ontario, bringing the total Provincial commitment to 333.
B.C. is currently faced with an extreme fire hazard, with large blazes currently burning.
The forest fire hazard in Northwestern Ontario remains low.
Keewatin Woman Survives
A Keewatin woman who spent six days lost and alone in the woods of northwestern Ontario says she never gave up hope.
Valerie Cain got lost July 12th when she wanted to get a look at some rapids south of Red Lake.
She never found the rapids, andinstead got lost in the thick boreal forest with only a few cherries and crackers for food.
Cain says she found a lake at one point, and looked for any signs of civilization.
Cain built fires to stay warm and slept near the shore fora few days, figuring someone would eventually come by.
After walking toward another shore, Cain was eventually found by some cabin owners.
Valerie Cain got lost July 12th when she wanted to get a look at some rapids south of Red Lake.
She never found the rapids, andinstead got lost in the thick boreal forest with only a few cherries and crackers for food.
Cain says she found a lake at one point, and looked for any signs of civilization.
Cain built fires to stay warm and slept near the shore fora few days, figuring someone would eventually come by.
After walking toward another shore, Cain was eventually found by some cabin owners.
Support YAA
Municipal support continues to grow for the Northwestern Health Unit's Youth Action Alliance.
The town of Fort Frances has joined a list of municipalities passing resolutions calling on the province to continue funding for the youth-focused anti-smoking lobby group.
Health Unit board chair John Albanese says that municipal support is important.
Albanese says the alliance has been very effective with its anti-smoking initiatives, and should be allowed to continue.
The town of Fort Frances has joined a list of municipalities passing resolutions calling on the province to continue funding for the youth-focused anti-smoking lobby group.
Health Unit board chair John Albanese says that municipal support is important.
Albanese says the alliance has been very effective with its anti-smoking initiatives, and should be allowed to continue.
Northern Health Care Panel
A special panel has been appointed by the provincial government to come up with ways of improving health care programs in northern andrural Ontario.
The Ministry of Health has appointed 15 members to the panel, including seven from northern Ontario.
Hal Fjelsted, the CEO of the Kirland and District Hospital has beenasked to chair the committee and says they have been given very tight time lines to come up with a report.
Panel members include residents of Sioux Lookout and Red Lake.
Fjelsted says they have to report back to the government sometime this winter.
The Ministry of Health has appointed 15 members to the panel, including seven from northern Ontario.
Hal Fjelsted, the CEO of the Kirland and District Hospital has beenasked to chair the committee and says they have been given very tight time lines to come up with a report.
Panel members include residents of Sioux Lookout and Red Lake.
Fjelsted says they have to report back to the government sometime this winter.
Twinning Highway 17 Plan
A preliminary route has been established for twinning the Trans-Canada Highway from the
Manitoba border to Rush Bay.
The Ministry of Transportation held an open house yesterday to allowthe public to review the maps.
Neil Ahmed is the project manager and says they have only completedthe first portion of the route plan.
Ahmed says for the most part the double lane highway follows the current route pretty closely except in the area of Royal Lake, wherethe highway is diverted to the south.
Construction on the 100 million dollar project is expected to beginnext year.
Manitoba border to Rush Bay.
The Ministry of Transportation held an open house yesterday to allowthe public to review the maps.
Neil Ahmed is the project manager and says they have only completedthe first portion of the route plan.
Ahmed says for the most part the double lane highway follows the current route pretty closely except in the area of Royal Lake, wherethe highway is diverted to the south.
Construction on the 100 million dollar project is expected to beginnext year.
Rat Portage Vote
Rat Portage Residents who voted on a land claim settlement with the federal government have voted 90 percent in favour of the deal.
The agreement will hand over 125 acres of land, as well as SultanaIsland.
The band will also get 7.25 million dollars as part of the settlement.
A band spokesperson says they will be able to use the funds for anumber of projects, including an administrative center and an arena.
Voter turn-out was not released.
The agreement will hand over 125 acres of land, as well as SultanaIsland.
The band will also get 7.25 million dollars as part of the settlement.
A band spokesperson says they will be able to use the funds for anumber of projects, including an administrative center and an arena.
Voter turn-out was not released.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Red Lake Funding
Site preparation has begun on new commercial lots along Highway 105.
Red Lake has been conducting an engineering study on the proposed development of new commecial and industrial property, in a bid to attract more business.
The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund invested more then 31-thousand dollars in the study.
Red Lake has been conducting an engineering study on the proposed development of new commecial and industrial property, in a bid to attract more business.
The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund invested more then 31-thousand dollars in the study.
MNR Bait Fish
Illegal activity in the Dryden District has prompted the Ministry of Natural Resources to issue a warning.
Conservation officers have found a number of illegal baitfish traps this Summer.
The MNR says traps must be clearly labelled with the name of the user and must not exceed the maximum permitted size.
The Ministry has also received several complaints of individuals selling bait fish without a licence.
New bait regulations are in place to protect rare and endangered species.
Conservation officers have found a number of illegal baitfish traps this Summer.
The MNR says traps must be clearly labelled with the name of the user and must not exceed the maximum permitted size.
The Ministry has also received several complaints of individuals selling bait fish without a licence.
New bait regulations are in place to protect rare and endangered species.
Dryden Mill Running
You will soon see smoke coming from the Dryden Mill once again.
The process of re-starting the Mill is underway and the Plant should start consuming chips about mid-week.
Domtar Spokesperson Bonnie Skene outlines the time-table for its operation in Ear Falls.
Skene says the Company is doing everything in its power to ensure a safe start-up at the 2-Mill's.
The process of re-starting the Mill is underway and the Plant should start consuming chips about mid-week.
Domtar Spokesperson Bonnie Skene outlines the time-table for its operation in Ear Falls.
Skene says the Company is doing everything in its power to ensure a safe start-up at the 2-Mill's.
Invasive Species Hit Squad
A couple of local groups are trying to reduce the number of invasive species in local lakes.
A hit squad of students has been hired by the Ontario Federationof Anglers and Hunters and the Lake of the Woods Property Owners Association.
Suzette Peters is a member of the hit squad and says they are justtrying to make local residents aware of some of the invasivespecies that have been allowed to spread into area lakes and rivers.
Peters says they will have a booth set up at the farmer's market in Kenora all summer, and have also been touring local marinas, garden centers and festivals.
A hit squad of students has been hired by the Ontario Federationof Anglers and Hunters and the Lake of the Woods Property Owners Association.
Suzette Peters is a member of the hit squad and says they are justtrying to make local residents aware of some of the invasivespecies that have been allowed to spread into area lakes and rivers.
Peters says they will have a booth set up at the farmer's market in Kenora all summer, and have also been touring local marinas, garden centers and festivals.
NWO Firefighters help B.C.
86-firefighters and support staff across Northwestern Ontario have been sent to British Columbia to help with the escalating fire situation in that Province.
Ministry of Natural Resources Information Officer Travis Moffatt says battling a fire here at home is a lot different then in B.C.
The fire hazard is currently low across this region with no new fires reported on the weekend.
Ministry of Natural Resources Information Officer Travis Moffatt says battling a fire here at home is a lot different then in B.C.
The fire hazard is currently low across this region with no new fires reported on the weekend.
Jack Layton on Federal Election
The NDP say they are willing to head into an election campaign this fall if they feel the Harper government is not doing enough to helpCanadians hit hard by the economic downturn.
Jack Layton was in Kenora this past weekend and says he just doesn'tsee the Conservatives doing enough to help unemployed workers.
Layton says he wants the federal government to extend employment insurance benefits, and come up with a proper forest strategy tohelp workers in the region.
Jack Layton was in Kenora this past weekend and says he just doesn'tsee the Conservatives doing enough to help unemployed workers.
Layton says he wants the federal government to extend employment insurance benefits, and come up with a proper forest strategy tohelp workers in the region.
Monday, July 27, 2009
FFBC Results
A 20-pound bag of bass on the final day of fishing kept Minnesota anglers Joe Thrun and Jim Moynagh at the top for the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.
It was their third consecutive title, fifth overall.
Thrun and Moynagh three day-total of 57-point-76 pounds was eight pounds more than second place finishers Lauren Ras and Chuck Olson of Bemidgi.
Jeff Gustafson of Kenora and his partner John Peterson came in third with 49.48 pounds of bass.
It was their third consecutive title, fifth overall.
Thrun and Moynagh three day-total of 57-point-76 pounds was eight pounds more than second place finishers Lauren Ras and Chuck Olson of Bemidgi.
Jeff Gustafson of Kenora and his partner John Peterson came in third with 49.48 pounds of bass.
Kenora Borealis Club Triathlon
The 5th Annual Kenora Borealis Triathlon and Duathlon was a success with over 200 people taking part yesterday.
Kenora Borealis Competitor Edie Fisher took home the top spot in the Olympic Triathlon for "females 50 to 54" with a final time of 2 hours and 24 minutes.
Another Kenora competitor Dan Morwood had the best time in the Long Duathlon with a final time of 1 hour 58 minutes and 29 seconds.
For complete results from the Borealsis Triathlon and Duathlon log onto www.triathlon.mb.ca
Kenora Borealis Competitor Edie Fisher took home the top spot in the Olympic Triathlon for "females 50 to 54" with a final time of 2 hours and 24 minutes.
Another Kenora competitor Dan Morwood had the best time in the Long Duathlon with a final time of 1 hour 58 minutes and 29 seconds.
For complete results from the Borealsis Triathlon and Duathlon log onto www.triathlon.mb.ca
Bronze Back Classic Results
The 3rd Annual Bronze Back Classic has a new winner.
Tim and Hugh Hull placed first in the local fishing tournament with 29.78 pounds of fish.
Second place went to Mark LeBitka and Clint Butler with 29.18 pounds.
Jim and Ben Gufstafsen came in third with 28.71 pounds.
The biggest overal fish was brought in by Carol and Tim Tacknyck weighing 4.26 pounds.
Tim and Hugh Hull placed first in the local fishing tournament with 29.78 pounds of fish.
Second place went to Mark LeBitka and Clint Butler with 29.18 pounds.
Jim and Ben Gufstafsen came in third with 28.71 pounds.
The biggest overal fish was brought in by Carol and Tim Tacknyck weighing 4.26 pounds.
Local Services Board Mtg
A meeting is being held tonight to determine if there isenough interest in setting up a local services board in the territory west of Kenora.
Jill Kalika is the chair of the McKenzie-Clearwater Bay Fire Protection Corporation, and says the main goal is increasing revenue for thevolunteer fire department.
Kalika says the actual vote will take place on August 15th.
Tonights meeting will take place at the McKenzie-ClearwaterBay Fire Hall at 7:00.
Jill Kalika is the chair of the McKenzie-Clearwater Bay Fire Protection Corporation, and says the main goal is increasing revenue for thevolunteer fire department.
Kalika says the actual vote will take place on August 15th.
Tonights meeting will take place at the McKenzie-ClearwaterBay Fire Hall at 7:00.
Jack Layton visits Kenora
The federal government is being taken to task for its lack of vision forthe forest industry.
NDP leader Jack Layton was in Kenora yesterday to meet with seniorsand party faithful.
He says there is no reason why the Kenora Forest Products mill should continue to remain idle.
Layton also suggests the federal govenrment should prevent AbitibiBowater from selling off its power dams in northern Ontario.
NDP leader Jack Layton was in Kenora yesterday to meet with seniorsand party faithful.
He says there is no reason why the Kenora Forest Products mill should continue to remain idle.
Layton also suggests the federal govenrment should prevent AbitibiBowater from selling off its power dams in northern Ontario.
NDP Nomination
The ballot in the next federal election will look much the same as theprevious one.
The New Democrats have selected Tania Cameron to carry their colorsif and when an election is called.
Cameron says the government needs to do more to help families hit hard by the economic downturn.
Cameron was acclaimed at a meeting yesterday.
She'll be joined by Roger Valley of the Liberals on the next federal ballot.
The New Democrats have selected Tania Cameron to carry their colorsif and when an election is called.
Cameron says the government needs to do more to help families hit hard by the economic downturn.
Cameron was acclaimed at a meeting yesterday.
She'll be joined by Roger Valley of the Liberals on the next federal ballot.
Rat Portage Vote
Residents of the Rat Portage First Nation are being asked to votetoday on a federal land claim settlement.
The band is being offered 7.35 million dollars in a deal that includesthe repatriation of Sultana Island and 125 acres of land to beannexed to Rat Portage along the Trans-Canada Highway.
Voting will take place at the Rat Portage Community Center from9:00 this morning until 6:00.
Off-reserve members were also encouraged to vote yesterday at a ballot box set up at Place Louis Riel in Winnipeg.
The band is being offered 7.35 million dollars in a deal that includesthe repatriation of Sultana Island and 125 acres of land to beannexed to Rat Portage along the Trans-Canada Highway.
Voting will take place at the Rat Portage Community Center from9:00 this morning until 6:00.
Off-reserve members were also encouraged to vote yesterday at a ballot box set up at Place Louis Riel in Winnipeg.
Missing Boater Found
The O-P-P has confirmed that the body of a missing Winnipegteacher has been recovered near Minaki.
Sergeant Hal Lewis says the body of 25-year-old Dave ChristopherPundyk was found Saturday afternoon.
The teacher was presumed drowned after he was thrown from a boatinto the Winnipeg River on July 18th.
The accident occurred when two boats travelling together collidedafter Pundyk's boat stalled.
Sergeant Hal Lewis says the body of 25-year-old Dave ChristopherPundyk was found Saturday afternoon.
The teacher was presumed drowned after he was thrown from a boatinto the Winnipeg River on July 18th.
The accident occurred when two boats travelling together collidedafter Pundyk's boat stalled.
Mining Boom
There's plenty of activity of mineral exploration in the Rainy River district.
Separate companies are focusing their attention on property in the Emo and Mine Centre area in particular.
District Geologist with the Minsitry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry Craig
Ravenous says a variety of minerals are being sought.
Ravenous says some companies are also looking at the potential of base metals and diamonds.
Separate companies are focusing their attention on property in the Emo and Mine Centre area in particular.
District Geologist with the Minsitry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry Craig
Ravenous says a variety of minerals are being sought.
Ravenous says some companies are also looking at the potential of base metals and diamonds.
More Firefighting Help B.C.
More firefighting re-inforcements from Ontario have headed to British Columbia.
An additional 172 M-N-R personnel left for Kamloops yesterday.
They join the 122 who arrived B-C Friday.
That group is currently working out of Merritt, in the south-central interior of the province.
An additional 172 M-N-R personnel left for Kamloops yesterday.
They join the 122 who arrived B-C Friday.
That group is currently working out of Merritt, in the south-central interior of the province.
Kenora Stabbing
A 13 year old was stabbed and robbed over the weekend in downtown Kenora.
OPP say the victim was taken to Lake of the Woods District Hospital for non life threatening injuries and later released.
Police have charged a number of youth and one adult with charges relating to the incident.
Charges include aggravated assault, robbery with violence, and uttering threats.
OPP say the victim was taken to Lake of the Woods District Hospital for non life threatening injuries and later released.
Police have charged a number of youth and one adult with charges relating to the incident.
Charges include aggravated assault, robbery with violence, and uttering threats.
Break and Enter
OPP are dealing with a recent break and enter at a 11th Street North home.
The suspects forced their way into the house after the owner answered the door.
Police have charged an 18 year old woman with break and enter, and robbery with violence.
The investigation is continuing.
The suspects forced their way into the house after the owner answered the door.
Police have charged an 18 year old woman with break and enter, and robbery with violence.
The investigation is continuing.
Friday, July 24, 2009
LOW Rowing Regatta
It's going to be busy on Rabbit Lake this weekend.
The Kenora Rowing Club's annual Tops and Bottoms Rowing Regatta gets underway on Saturday.
More than 100 rowers are taking part in the event at Garrow Park.
There will be plenty of races to choose from, including the 16 and under division, 21 years and under and older than 27 divisions.
The Kenora Rowing Club's annual Tops and Bottoms Rowing Regatta gets underway on Saturday.
More than 100 rowers are taking part in the event at Garrow Park.
There will be plenty of races to choose from, including the 16 and under division, 21 years and under and older than 27 divisions.
Fort Frances Bass Championships
More than 15-hundred pounds of bass was reeling in during the first day of fishing at the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship.
Defending champions Joe Thrun of Annandale, Minnesota and Jim Moynagh of Carver, Minnesota lead the field of 124 teams with 19-point 1-4 pounds.
But a catch of 18-point-2-9 pounds has put Kenora's Dean Tackynk and his fishing partner Trevor Guderyan within striking distance.
The Kenora team is fourth.
Matt Christy of Superior, Wisconsin and Chris Hay of Brooklyn Centre, Minnesota hold down the second spot.
Ron and Dan Lindner of Baxter, Minnesota are third.
The big fish of the day was caught by Scott and Blair Dingwall of Dryden.
They reeled in a 4.82 pound pass
Defending champions Joe Thrun of Annandale, Minnesota and Jim Moynagh of Carver, Minnesota lead the field of 124 teams with 19-point 1-4 pounds.
But a catch of 18-point-2-9 pounds has put Kenora's Dean Tackynk and his fishing partner Trevor Guderyan within striking distance.
The Kenora team is fourth.
Matt Christy of Superior, Wisconsin and Chris Hay of Brooklyn Centre, Minnesota hold down the second spot.
Ron and Dan Lindner of Baxter, Minnesota are third.
The big fish of the day was caught by Scott and Blair Dingwall of Dryden.
They reeled in a 4.82 pound pass
Missing Fire Fighter
A scary moment for a Kenora man.
For the second time in a week, someone got lost in the bush in the Red Lake Area, but survived.
22-year-old Dan Burgelis went missing from a Ministry of Natural Resources training site yesterday afternoon.
Burgelis was on a break when he went for a walk in the bush and got disoriented.
He was located north of Red Lake late last night and was in good spirits.
For the second time in a week, someone got lost in the bush in the Red Lake Area, but survived.
22-year-old Dan Burgelis went missing from a Ministry of Natural Resources training site yesterday afternoon.
Burgelis was on a break when he went for a walk in the bush and got disoriented.
He was located north of Red Lake late last night and was in good spirits.
New Bridge
The province is helping to improve transportation between eightremote First Nations.
The government is giving the Sandy Lake First Nation 158-thousand dollars from the Northern
Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation.
The money will go towards design, environmental assessments andother steps required before construction of a bridge over the Berens River can begin.
The new bridge will increase the number of days that the seasonal ice road network can be used by several First Nations in the FarNorth.
Currently, the river can only be crossed safely when winter ice conditions permit.
The government is giving the Sandy Lake First Nation 158-thousand dollars from the Northern
Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation.
The money will go towards design, environmental assessments andother steps required before construction of a bridge over the Berens River can begin.
The new bridge will increase the number of days that the seasonal ice road network can be used by several First Nations in the FarNorth.
Currently, the river can only be crossed safely when winter ice conditions permit.
Atleo AFN
Area native leaders are throwing their support behind newly elected national chief of the Assembly of First Nations Sean Atleo.
The former vice-chief from B-C won the title following eight rounds of voting in Calgary yesterday.
Couchiching First Nations Chief Chuck McPherson believes Atleo's campaign unfairly benefited from the fact roughly one-third of the 639 eligible voters are from B.C.
The province with the next largest bloc of voters is Ontario, with 134 eligible chiefs.
But McPherson says Atleo will get cross-country support because their is too much to do.
The former vice-chief from B-C won the title following eight rounds of voting in Calgary yesterday.
Couchiching First Nations Chief Chuck McPherson believes Atleo's campaign unfairly benefited from the fact roughly one-third of the 639 eligible voters are from B.C.
The province with the next largest bloc of voters is Ontario, with 134 eligible chiefs.
But McPherson says Atleo will get cross-country support because their is too much to do.
LOWAC Studio Tour
The Lake of the Woods Arts Collective is opening its studio doors to the public this weekend.
A Studio Tour is being held this weekend from 10 until 5 at the various artists workshops in and around the City of Kenora.
Spokesperson Kimberly Kahoot says they have workshops located throughout the city and in nearby Redditt, Black Sturgeon, and Spruce Lake.
Kahoot notes maps are available at both Tourism Kenora locations, and online at www.lowac.ca
A Studio Tour is being held this weekend from 10 until 5 at the various artists workshops in and around the City of Kenora.
Spokesperson Kimberly Kahoot says they have workshops located throughout the city and in nearby Redditt, Black Sturgeon, and Spruce Lake.
Kahoot notes maps are available at both Tourism Kenora locations, and online at www.lowac.ca
NDP Health Critic on Doctor Website
N-D-P Health critic doesn't think a new website is going to do much good in finding Ontarian's a doctor.
France Gelinas says better money would have been spent on initiatives that improves the delivery of health care and brings new physicians to already underserviced communities.
Gelinas says asking people to go to a website isn't going to get them a visit to a physician who already have a long-waiting list.
France Gelinas says better money would have been spent on initiatives that improves the delivery of health care and brings new physicians to already underserviced communities.
Gelinas says asking people to go to a website isn't going to get them a visit to a physician who already have a long-waiting list.
Highway Safety
The Highway Education Safety Committee in northwestern Ontario has launched a new campaign aimed at reducing accidents on local roads.
Mobile billboards with the message "Just Drive" will be installed onPaul's Hauling trucks in the region.
Sergeant Rod Brown says they want to try to reduce the number of people who insist on talking on the phone or eating while they drive.
Brown says while the province will be enacting legislation later this year to ban the use of cell phones while driving, they want to educatethe public about the dangers of that practice.
Mobile billboards with the message "Just Drive" will be installed onPaul's Hauling trucks in the region.
Sergeant Rod Brown says they want to try to reduce the number of people who insist on talking on the phone or eating while they drive.
Brown says while the province will be enacting legislation later this year to ban the use of cell phones while driving, they want to educatethe public about the dangers of that practice.
Attawapiskat First Nation Sewage
An official of the Attawapiskat First Nation in northern Ontario says Indian Affairs has no plan to relocate residents living in contaminated homes.
However, a department spokeswoman says Indian Affairs officials are in the remote community today to assess the situation, and people could be relocated within the community.
Deputy Chief Theresa Spence says a state of emergency has been declared following the failure of the community's primary sewage lift station on July 11th.
Spence says nearly 70 residents are living in contaminated homes.
Those affected range from babies to elders, many of whom were already facing significant health problems.
Indian Affairs had earlier refused to evacuate residents who became ill from fumes after a school was demolished.
However, a department spokeswoman says Indian Affairs officials are in the remote community today to assess the situation, and people could be relocated within the community.
Deputy Chief Theresa Spence says a state of emergency has been declared following the failure of the community's primary sewage lift station on July 11th.
Spence says nearly 70 residents are living in contaminated homes.
Those affected range from babies to elders, many of whom were already facing significant health problems.
Indian Affairs had earlier refused to evacuate residents who became ill from fumes after a school was demolished.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
NWHU YAA
The Northwestern Health Unit is fighting to keep the Youth Action Alliance running.
The local tobacco free advocacy group is scheduled to be disbanded by the Provincial Government at the end of the August.
Health Officials have sent a letter to Premier Dalton McGuinty strongly urging him to maintain funding for the program.
Some municipalities in the region have also agreed to correspond with the Government highlighting the importance of the Alliance.
The local tobacco free advocacy group is scheduled to be disbanded by the Provincial Government at the end of the August.
Health Officials have sent a letter to Premier Dalton McGuinty strongly urging him to maintain funding for the program.
Some municipalities in the region have also agreed to correspond with the Government highlighting the importance of the Alliance.
Drugs
Wunnumin Lake First Nation residents can be credited with a major drug bust.
They reported a suspicious package dropped by a white and yello Cessna Float Plane on July 19th.
The package contained 32-thousand dollars worth of marijuana and Percocet pills.
The incident is still under investigation and anyone with information can call Nishnawbe-Aski Police or Crimestoppers.
Wunnimin Lake is about 500-kilometres north of Thunder Bay.
They reported a suspicious package dropped by a white and yello Cessna Float Plane on July 19th.
The package contained 32-thousand dollars worth of marijuana and Percocet pills.
The incident is still under investigation and anyone with information can call Nishnawbe-Aski Police or Crimestoppers.
Wunnimin Lake is about 500-kilometres north of Thunder Bay.
Ignace Good Water
After 2-years under a boil-water advisory, residents of Ignace can finally drink from the tap.
While the township has been supplied with water from its new water treatment plant since early June, there were delays.
Besides the lengthy boil-water advisory, the town's 665 households have had to endure sinks, tubs, dishwashers and laundry suffering from hard water and iron stains.
While the township has been supplied with water from its new water treatment plant since early June, there were delays.
Besides the lengthy boil-water advisory, the town's 665 households have had to endure sinks, tubs, dishwashers and laundry suffering from hard water and iron stains.
Fort Frances Bass Championship
The Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship will celebrate its 15th anniversary tonight.
The championship has drawn anglers from across north America to fish the waters of Rainy River.
Chair Tom Fry says community support plays a big part in keeping the event going.
Several Kenora boats will be in the 2009 field, including 2008 KBI Champion Jeff Guffstason who will be partnering with John Peterson of Bimigee.
The championship has drawn anglers from across north America to fish the waters of Rainy River.
Chair Tom Fry says community support plays a big part in keeping the event going.
Several Kenora boats will be in the 2009 field, including 2008 KBI Champion Jeff Guffstason who will be partnering with John Peterson of Bimigee.
OPP still searching for Winnipeg Man
Kenora OPP are searching for a man after a boat collision on Winnipeg River last Saturday.
25 year old Winnipeg Resident Dave Pundyk went missing after a boat he was riding in collided with another boat.
A 27-year-old Kenora man was issued a three day suspension after registering in the warning range for alcohol.
OPP divers were called in to search the area and shoreline searches will be conducted all this week.
25 year old Winnipeg Resident Dave Pundyk went missing after a boat he was riding in collided with another boat.
A 27-year-old Kenora man was issued a three day suspension after registering in the warning range for alcohol.
OPP divers were called in to search the area and shoreline searches will be conducted all this week.
Walk for Good Life
Several members of first nations in Treaty #3 are on a walking tourof the region.
The small group set out Monday from the Rainy River First Nation,and are scheduled to complete their trek in a week.
Al Hunter says the walk is to raise funds and awareness of the Good Life for Young People Foundation.
The group was scheduled to arrive in Blue Lake Provincial Park lastnight, before making their way to Dryden and Fort Frances later thisweek.
The small group set out Monday from the Rainy River First Nation,and are scheduled to complete their trek in a week.
Al Hunter says the walk is to raise funds and awareness of the Good Life for Young People Foundation.
The group was scheduled to arrive in Blue Lake Provincial Park lastnight, before making their way to Dryden and Fort Frances later thisweek.
Local Services Board
A meeting will be held next week to find out whether property ownersliving west of the City of
Kenora want to create a local services board.
The McKenzie Clearwater Bay Fire Protection Corporation says it needs more money to help operate.
Jill Kalika is chair of the board of the corporation and says a localservices board would allow them to set an annual levy for all propertyowners west of McKenzie Portage Road.
Kalika says they currently have names and addresses for 13 hundredproperty owners in the area, but only about 600 actually voluntarilycontribute to the fire hall.
The public meeting will be held at 7:00 Monday night at the ClearwaterBay Fire Hall.
Kenora want to create a local services board.
The McKenzie Clearwater Bay Fire Protection Corporation says it needs more money to help operate.
Jill Kalika is chair of the board of the corporation and says a localservices board would allow them to set an annual levy for all propertyowners west of McKenzie Portage Road.
Kalika says they currently have names and addresses for 13 hundredproperty owners in the area, but only about 600 actually voluntarilycontribute to the fire hall.
The public meeting will be held at 7:00 Monday night at the ClearwaterBay Fire Hall.
MNR Fire sent to B.C.
The Ministry of Natural Resources is once again sending personnel from Ontario to help fight forest fires in British Columbia.
A total of 122 fire fighters and support staff are being deployed this morning to Kamloops.
Fire Information Officer Debbie McLean says they can lend their support and still be adequately equipped at home.
The contigent includes 15 FireRanger Crews from MNR fire bases from across northwestern Ontario.
A total of 122 fire fighters and support staff are being deployed this morning to Kamloops.
Fire Information Officer Debbie McLean says they can lend their support and still be adequately equipped at home.
The contigent includes 15 FireRanger Crews from MNR fire bases from across northwestern Ontario.
Deer Lake Man found dead
More details are expected in the sudden death of a Deer Lake First Nation man who was found dead in Kenora last week.
The OPP are waiting for the results of a toxicology report.
Ricky Rae was found on July 13th on the steps near the Harbourfront in the early evening.
Foul play is not suspected in connection with his death.
The OPP are waiting for the results of a toxicology report.
Ricky Rae was found on July 13th on the steps near the Harbourfront in the early evening.
Foul play is not suspected in connection with his death.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Service Ontario Changes
Starting this fall, Ontario health cards, driver's licenses and vehicle registration services will all be found under one roof.
ServiceOntario centres across the province will spend the next 18 months expanding to offer integrated services.
The announcement means health cards, which were available fromonly 27 OHIP offices, can now be picked up from 300 locations.
Health card services in rural communities will grow from only twoto more than 160 centres, while northern communities will see anexpansion from six to 67 integrated offices.
There are only two ServiceOntario centres which offer integrated services at present.
ServiceOntario centres across the province will spend the next 18 months expanding to offer integrated services.
The announcement means health cards, which were available fromonly 27 OHIP offices, can now be picked up from 300 locations.
Health card services in rural communities will grow from only twoto more than 160 centres, while northern communities will see anexpansion from six to 67 integrated offices.
There are only two ServiceOntario centres which offer integrated services at present.
Make Someone Smile Week
You can help make someone smile this week.
Page Florists and Teleflora are teaming up to offer special smiley face flower arrangements.
Donna Friesen explains why she takes part in the program.
Page Florists delivered free flowers to Birchwood Terrace, Saakate House, and Lake of the Woods Hospital.
Page Florists and Teleflora are teaming up to offer special smiley face flower arrangements.
Donna Friesen explains why she takes part in the program.
Page Florists delivered free flowers to Birchwood Terrace, Saakate House, and Lake of the Woods Hospital.
Charlie Angus on 911 Service
The Canadian Radio Television and Telecommunications Commission is being asked to ensure 911 coverage is available across Canada.
911 cell phone service is spotty and unreliable in many parts of the far north.
NDP MP Charlie Angus says the CRTC needs to come up with a coherent plan dealing with the emergency service.
Angus notes the current CRTC policy on wireless 911 calls impedes effective location based emergency dispatch service.
911 cell phone service is spotty and unreliable in many parts of the far north.
NDP MP Charlie Angus says the CRTC needs to come up with a coherent plan dealing with the emergency service.
Angus notes the current CRTC policy on wireless 911 calls impedes effective location based emergency dispatch service.
Health Care Connect
There's a new way for you to find a family doctor.
The Provincial Government recently launched the "Health Care Connect" registration website and toll free number.
Health Minister David Caplan adds there's more good news for the North, noting 70 percent of the Northern Ontario Medical School's first year graduates plan to go into family practices.
The Health Care Connect wesbite can be found through the Ontario website www.ontario.ca
The Provincial Government recently launched the "Health Care Connect" registration website and toll free number.
Health Minister David Caplan adds there's more good news for the North, noting 70 percent of the Northern Ontario Medical School's first year graduates plan to go into family practices.
The Health Care Connect wesbite can be found through the Ontario website www.ontario.ca
AFN FLU CONFERENCE
Aboriginal leaders say many questions need to be answered before a potential resurgence of the H-1-N-1 virus as fall flu season nears.
Treaty Three Grand Chief Diane Kelly says she's concerned about how remote communities will get supplies if the pandemic becomes severe.
Liberal M-P's say squabbling between governments and health boards about who is responsible for the health of aboriginals is stalling vital flu preparations.
Treaty Three Grand Chief Diane Kelly says she's concerned about how remote communities will get supplies if the pandemic becomes severe.
Liberal M-P's say squabbling between governments and health boards about who is responsible for the health of aboriginals is stalling vital flu preparations.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Kenora Bear Sightings
Kenora's Ministry of Natural Resources has responded to 10 bear sightings this summer.
Last year MNR bear technicians dealt with at least double that number.
Technician Krista Proser says last year the Kenora MNR dealt with 20 bear reportings.
The bear wise hotline is 1-866-541-2327.
Last year MNR bear technicians dealt with at least double that number.
Technician Krista Proser says last year the Kenora MNR dealt with 20 bear reportings.
The bear wise hotline is 1-866-541-2327.
First Nations Funding
Kenora MP Greg Rickford says the Federal Government is doing its part to help First Nation communities in Northern Ontario.
Rickford and Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl met with aboriginal leaders in the Sioux Lookout area this week.Rickford says providing education and training opportunities is the focus right now.
He stresses there's always more work to be done but feels the Conservatives are on the right track.
Rickford and Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl met with aboriginal leaders in the Sioux Lookout area this week.Rickford says providing education and training opportunities is the focus right now.
He stresses there's always more work to be done but feels the Conservatives are on the right track.
Two Feathers Project
The Two Feathers Forest Products initiative is moving forward.An Environmental Screening Report is now available for review and public comment.
The project involves Wabigoon Lake, Eagle Lake and Pikangikum First Nation's as well as Red Lake and Finland based Wood Tech.
Processed lumber will be shipped by truck to a plant in Eagle Lake, which will include planer lines and assembly factories for construction of pre-fabricated buildings.
The Environmental report is available on-line at www.twofeatherswood.com.
The project involves Wabigoon Lake, Eagle Lake and Pikangikum First Nation's as well as Red Lake and Finland based Wood Tech.
Processed lumber will be shipped by truck to a plant in Eagle Lake, which will include planer lines and assembly factories for construction of pre-fabricated buildings.
The Environmental report is available on-line at www.twofeatherswood.com.
Provincial Funding
The Ministry of Northern Development and Mines has awarded three contracts worth almost 25 million dollars, to fix up three bridges and44 kilometers of roads in northwestern Ontario.
Carillion Canada has been given the contract to rehabilitate 18kilometers of the Trans-Canada between Vermillion Bay and Dryden.
The project also includes improvements to the Eagle River Bridge andconstruction of a new eastbound passing lane.
L.H. North will be carrying out 8.3 million dollars of work on the Butler Creek Bridge near Vermillion Bay and the Wabigoon Bridge.
Pioneer Construction has won the contract to re-surface 26 kilometersof Highway 71 south of Nestor Falls.
That project will cost 2.8 million dollars.
Carillion Canada has been given the contract to rehabilitate 18kilometers of the Trans-Canada between Vermillion Bay and Dryden.
The project also includes improvements to the Eagle River Bridge andconstruction of a new eastbound passing lane.
L.H. North will be carrying out 8.3 million dollars of work on the Butler Creek Bridge near Vermillion Bay and the Wabigoon Bridge.
Pioneer Construction has won the contract to re-surface 26 kilometersof Highway 71 south of Nestor Falls.
That project will cost 2.8 million dollars.
Missing Boater Minaki
A 24-year-old Winnipeg man is missing following a collision between two boats Saturday on the Winnipeg River near Minaki.
Police say two other occupants of one of the boats suffered nonlife-threatening injuries.
Police and volunteers spent the weekend searching for the missingman and O-P-P divers joined the search yesterday.
Police say two other occupants of one of the boats suffered nonlife-threatening injuries.
Police and volunteers spent the weekend searching for the missingman and O-P-P divers joined the search yesterday.
Monday, July 20, 2009
The OPP's Marine Unit is expected to resume the search today for a missing 25 year old Winnipeg Man.
Early Saturday morning, David Christopher Pundyk was thrown from a boat on the Winnipeg River near Minaki, following a freak boating accident.
Around 3:30 AM, two boats travelling together collided.
Two other people had to be taken to hospital for treatment of injuries.
The OPP have been searching the shoreline and islands in the area.
Pundyk was a teacher at Sisler High School in Winnipeg and was staying at his parents cottage near Minaki.
Early Saturday morning, David Christopher Pundyk was thrown from a boat on the Winnipeg River near Minaki, following a freak boating accident.
Around 3:30 AM, two boats travelling together collided.
Two other people had to be taken to hospital for treatment of injuries.
The OPP have been searching the shoreline and islands in the area.
Pundyk was a teacher at Sisler High School in Winnipeg and was staying at his parents cottage near Minaki.
Valerie Cain Found
The OPP say they have located a Keewatin woman who had been reported missing almost a week ago in the Red Lake area.
Valerie Cain was located Saturday morning around 8:30 in relativelygood condition, despite having spent six nights in the bush.
Cain was found near the Chukuni River, about 30 kilometers south of Red Lake.
Her 1999 Ford Explorer had been found a day earlier by a float plane pilot, and the OPP concentrated their search efforts in that area ofHighway 105.
She was transported to Margaret Cochenor Hospital in Red Lake suffering from dehydration and extensive insect bits, but was otherwise found to be in good condition.
Valerie Cain was located Saturday morning around 8:30 in relativelygood condition, despite having spent six nights in the bush.
Cain was found near the Chukuni River, about 30 kilometers south of Red Lake.
Her 1999 Ford Explorer had been found a day earlier by a float plane pilot, and the OPP concentrated their search efforts in that area ofHighway 105.
She was transported to Margaret Cochenor Hospital in Red Lake suffering from dehydration and extensive insect bits, but was otherwise found to be in good condition.
Fantino swears in new OPP officers
Plenty of pomp and ceremony at the Kenora Curling Club over the weekend as 33 members of the Kenora Police Service were officiallysworn in as OPP officers.
Julian Fantino is the commissioner of the OPP and was on hand for thefestivities.
He says the OPP is pleased with its expanded role in policing the City of Kenora.
Fantino says the new officers will notice a few changes in procedurewith the OPP, but the overall service of policing the City of Kenora willbe much the same.
Julian Fantino is the commissioner of the OPP and was on hand for thefestivities.
He says the OPP is pleased with its expanded role in policing the City of Kenora.
Fantino says the new officers will notice a few changes in procedurewith the OPP, but the overall service of policing the City of Kenora willbe much the same.
International Help for Lake of the Woods?
The Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation is lobbying the International Joint Commission to bring the lake under its jurisdiction.
The IJC oversees international waterways along the Canada/U.S.border.
Todd Sellars says it would be a great step forward if they can get international support for their work.
Sellars is hoping the IJC will agree to bring Lake of the Woods underits jurisdiction in the next year or so.
The IJC oversees international waterways along the Canada/U.S.border.
Todd Sellars says it would be a great step forward if they can get international support for their work.
Sellars is hoping the IJC will agree to bring Lake of the Woods underits jurisdiction in the next year or so.
H1N1 update
There are now 68 confirmed cases of the H1N1 virus in northwestern Ontario.
The Ontario Ministry of Health provided an update of the spread of theswine flu virus late Friday afternoon.
In the Northwestern Health Unit's cachment area, there were 8 newcases of H1N1 reported in the past week.
There was also one new case of influenza "A".
The health officials says its unusual to see cases of the flu at this timeof the year.
The Ontario Ministry of Health provided an update of the spread of theswine flu virus late Friday afternoon.
In the Northwestern Health Unit's cachment area, there were 8 newcases of H1N1 reported in the past week.
There was also one new case of influenza "A".
The health officials says its unusual to see cases of the flu at this timeof the year.
KPS says goodbye
Several hundred people came out Frioay afternoon to say goodbye tothe employees of the Kenora Police Service.
The ceremony took place in the parking lot of the Kenora Police Station.
Chief Dan Jorgensen says he's still a little bitter about how city councildecided to get rid of the KPS.
Members of the Kenora Police Service were presented plaques in recognition to their service to the community.
Saturday morning, 33 members of the KPS will be sworn in by OPP commissioner Julian Fantino.
The ceremony took place in the parking lot of the Kenora Police Station.
Chief Dan Jorgensen says he's still a little bitter about how city councildecided to get rid of the KPS.
Members of the Kenora Police Service were presented plaques in recognition to their service to the community.
Saturday morning, 33 members of the KPS will be sworn in by OPP commissioner Julian Fantino.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Opawica Mining
Opawica Explorations has updated its resource estimate for its Atikwa Lake property near Kenora.
The new figures were derived from a database of new information from recent drilling activity.
A total of 16 holes were drilled.
The study shows other exploration targets on the property seperate from the Maybrun gold copper zones.
The new figures were derived from a database of new information from recent drilling activity.
A total of 16 holes were drilled.
The study shows other exploration targets on the property seperate from the Maybrun gold copper zones.
Keewatin Fire
An electrical malfunction is being blamed on a small house fire inKeewatin.
The fire broke out shortly after 1:00 yesterday afternoon in the kitchenarea.
Five trucks were dispatched to the scene and were able to containthe fire to the room of origin.
No one was injured and there was minimal water damage as a resultof the blaze.
The fire broke out shortly after 1:00 yesterday afternoon in the kitchenarea.
Five trucks were dispatched to the scene and were able to containthe fire to the room of origin.
No one was injured and there was minimal water damage as a resultof the blaze.
Women's Place Funds
Women's Place Kenora is welcoming 64-thousand dollars from the Federal Government.
Kenora MP Greg Rickford was in Kenora yesterday to announce the funding on behalf of the Minister of State for the Status of Women.
Rickford says he's happy the Conservatives can help shape the lives of Northwestern Ontario's youth.
The money will go towards domestic abuse training and teen workshops.
Kenora MP Greg Rickford was in Kenora yesterday to announce the funding on behalf of the Minister of State for the Status of Women.
Rickford says he's happy the Conservatives can help shape the lives of Northwestern Ontario's youth.
The money will go towards domestic abuse training and teen workshops.
Treaty Three Residential School
Grand Council Treaty #3 says it would like to see the Indian Residential School Truth and Reconciliation Commission to hold at least onehearing in northwestern Ontario.
The new co-chairs of the commission were officially sworn in yesterday.
Grand Chief of Treaty Three, Diane Kelly attended the swearing inceremony and says residential school survivors in the region wantto put their experiences on the public record.
She adds that there were 11 residential schools in the Treaty Threearea and at least one hearing should take place in their territory.
The new co-chairs of the commission were officially sworn in yesterday.
Grand Chief of Treaty Three, Diane Kelly attended the swearing inceremony and says residential school survivors in the region wantto put their experiences on the public record.
She adds that there were 11 residential schools in the Treaty Threearea and at least one hearing should take place in their territory.
OPP Take over
The OPP promise to have a high visibility in the community when theytake over policing in the City of Kenora today.
Inspector Dave Lucas from the Kenora Detachment says they want to make Kenora one of the safest in the country.
He adds that they will also be keeping a close eye on the bottom line.
A total of 33 members of the Kenora Police Service have been hiredon by the OPP and will be sworn by OPP commissioner Julian Fantino at a special ceremony tomorrow morning.
Inspector Dave Lucas from the Kenora Detachment says they want to make Kenora one of the safest in the country.
He adds that they will also be keeping a close eye on the bottom line.
A total of 33 members of the Kenora Police Service have been hiredon by the OPP and will be sworn by OPP commissioner Julian Fantino at a special ceremony tomorrow morning.
Fire Hazard Update
3-new forest fires were reported yesterday across Northwestern Ontario.
One of the blazes burned in the Northern section of Quetico Park and crews acted quickly to hold the flames.
Another fire is burning in Quetico, but it is being allowed to run its natural course.
Ministry of Natural Resources Information Officer Travis Moffatt says the fire hazard has taken a 180-turn.
Another fire was reported near New Osnaburgh First Nation and it was contained after burning point-1 hectare.
One of the blazes burned in the Northern section of Quetico Park and crews acted quickly to hold the flames.
Another fire is burning in Quetico, but it is being allowed to run its natural course.
Ministry of Natural Resources Information Officer Travis Moffatt says the fire hazard has taken a 180-turn.
Another fire was reported near New Osnaburgh First Nation and it was contained after burning point-1 hectare.
KPS Last Day
The Kenora Police is starting to wind down its operations.
Friday is the last day of existance for the KPS.
The OPP will take over policing duties as of 7AM.
Kenora Police Chief Dan Jorgensen says they are still sorting throughsome last minute issues, such as the disposal of KPS property.
Jorgensen says one of his last duties will be to oversee a farewellceremony Friday afternoon at the Kenora Police station at 2:00.
Friday is the last day of existance for the KPS.
The OPP will take over policing duties as of 7AM.
Kenora Police Chief Dan Jorgensen says they are still sorting throughsome last minute issues, such as the disposal of KPS property.
Jorgensen says one of his last duties will be to oversee a farewellceremony Friday afternoon at the Kenora Police station at 2:00.
Lake Study
Environment Canada is giving the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation 135 thousand dollars to study the water quality of the lake.
The Foundation has embarked on a Nutrient Budget for Lakeof the Woods.
Executive Director of organization, Todd Sellars they want to find outwhere nutrients like phosphorous are coming from, and where they are ending up.
Sellars says they have also received funding support from the Province's of Ontario and Manitoba and also the State of Minnesota for the Nutrient study.
The Foundation has embarked on a Nutrient Budget for Lakeof the Woods.
Executive Director of organization, Todd Sellars they want to find outwhere nutrients like phosphorous are coming from, and where they are ending up.
Sellars says they have also received funding support from the Province's of Ontario and Manitoba and also the State of Minnesota for the Nutrient study.
Downtown Revitalization
Design plans for phase two of the downtown revitalization project are getting mainlyfavorable reviews.
Conceptual design plans were unveiled at a public meeting last night.
Councillor Wendy Cuthbert was a member of the design team and says therecould be some substantial changes to the way the harborfront looks in the future.
The phase two of downtown revitalization is scheduled to begin this summer with the development of Lake of the Woods Plaza.
Design plans also call for a pier, less parking on the Harborfront, and the development of a large festival space.
Conceptual design plans were unveiled at a public meeting last night.
Councillor Wendy Cuthbert was a member of the design team and says therecould be some substantial changes to the way the harborfront looks in the future.
The phase two of downtown revitalization is scheduled to begin this summer with the development of Lake of the Woods Plaza.
Design plans also call for a pier, less parking on the Harborfront, and the development of a large festival space.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
NORTHWOODS EXPANDS
Northwoods Broadcasting is expanding.
The owners of CJRL have purchased Thunder Bay Radio Station's Giant 105.3 as well as Magic 99.9 for 4.5-million dollars.
Vice-President Jim MacMullin says they are pleased with the agreement with Newcap and notes the two stations will be a great addition to the exisiting stations in Dryden, Kenora and Fort Fort Frances.
The deal is subject to approval from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission and is set to close at the end of this year.
The owners of CJRL have purchased Thunder Bay Radio Station's Giant 105.3 as well as Magic 99.9 for 4.5-million dollars.
Vice-President Jim MacMullin says they are pleased with the agreement with Newcap and notes the two stations will be a great addition to the exisiting stations in Dryden, Kenora and Fort Fort Frances.
The deal is subject to approval from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission and is set to close at the end of this year.
Missing Person
The OPP is searching for a missing 44 year old Keewatin resident.
Valerie Cain works at Lake of the Woods District Hospital in Kenora, but was working extra shifts in Red Lake at Margaret Cochenor Memorial Hospital.
She was last seen checking out of the Norseman Inn in Red Lake around 9:30 Sunday morning, but never made it to work.
She has not been in phone contact with her family and has not made any purchases from her bank account.
She is listed as about 5 feet 7 inches tall, and weight 144 poundswith short, black hair, and blue eyes.
She drives a 1999 Ford Explorer with licence plate number BEHE 028.
Anyone who might know her whereabouts is asked to contact the Red Lake OPP or Crimestoppers.
Impaired Driver
Kenora OPP have charged more people with drinking and driving.
On Friday, officers noticed a vehicle being operated in an erratic manner.
The vehicle was stopped and the driver was found to be impaired.
22 year old Christopher Batiuk was charged with impaired driving and will attend court on August 17th to answer the charge.
On Friday, officers noticed a vehicle being operated in an erratic manner.
The vehicle was stopped and the driver was found to be impaired.
22 year old Christopher Batiuk was charged with impaired driving and will attend court on August 17th to answer the charge.
Bearskin Shooting
Nishnawbe-Aski Police continue to investigate a shooting on Bearskin Lake First Nation, about 425-kilometres north of Sioux Lookout.
Police say a young person suffered non-life threatening injuries when he was shot on July 7th.
A 30-30 calibre firearm was used by the shooter according to police.
The victim is being treated in Winnipeg Hospital.
Police say a young person suffered non-life threatening injuries when he was shot on July 7th.
A 30-30 calibre firearm was used by the shooter according to police.
The victim is being treated in Winnipeg Hospital.
New Schools
The Federal Government has announced plans to build two new schools on Lac Seul and Cat Lake First Nations.Minister of Indian Affairs Chuck Strahl made the announcement today in Lac Seul.
The school in that community will be a kindergarten-to-grade 8 facility with room for 112-students.
Construction is expected to begin this year and is expected to be completed in September, 2011.
The Cat Lake First Nation School will also be kindergarten-to-grade 8, with room for 138-students.
Officials are hoping to break ground on the project in 2011.
The school in that community will be a kindergarten-to-grade 8 facility with room for 112-students.
Construction is expected to begin this year and is expected to be completed in September, 2011.
The Cat Lake First Nation School will also be kindergarten-to-grade 8, with room for 138-students.
Officials are hoping to break ground on the project in 2011.
Ignace Boil Water
A Boil water advisory remains in effect in Ignace.Although the Township has been supplied with water from the new treatment plant since early June, the notice is still in place.
Mayor Lionel Cloutier says a number of problems with the control systems had been detected.
He notes the engineers and contractors have resolved all but one of the problems, which is expected to be fixed shortly.
Cloutier is hopeful that the Town will have clean drinking water in a few weeks time.
Mayor Lionel Cloutier says a number of problems with the control systems had been detected.
He notes the engineers and contractors have resolved all but one of the problems, which is expected to be fixed shortly.
Cloutier is hopeful that the Town will have clean drinking water in a few weeks time.
Shooting in Kingfisher
A 35-year-old man is in custody in relation to a shooting on Kingfisher Lake First Nation, roughly 360-kilometres northeast of Sioux Lookout.
Nishnawbe-Aski Police say a 22-year-old woman sustained non-life threatening injuries during the incident last Sunday.Police say the accused faces 2-counts of unauthorized possession of a firearm, 2-counts of careless use of a firearm and counts of discharging a firearm with intent, dangerous possession of a weapon and pointing a firearm.
Nishnawbe-Aski Police say a 22-year-old woman sustained non-life threatening injuries during the incident last Sunday.Police say the accused faces 2-counts of unauthorized possession of a firearm, 2-counts of careless use of a firearm and counts of discharging a firearm with intent, dangerous possession of a weapon and pointing a firearm.
Kenora Swimming Sharks
6 members of the Kenora Swimming Sharks are competing in Montreal this week at the Canadian Age Group Championships.
Michelle Balcaen, Ronan and Cheyenne Cameron, Tasha Schabler, Kaity Inookee and Paige Murphey will be swimming in the event from July 15th to the 19th.
Live results will be available at www.swimming.ca
Michelle Balcaen, Ronan and Cheyenne Cameron, Tasha Schabler, Kaity Inookee and Paige Murphey will be swimming in the event from July 15th to the 19th.
Live results will be available at www.swimming.ca
Army Reserve Recruitment
The Kenora Army Reserve is always looking for new recruits.
Bombadier Lynne Danielson is a recruitment officer with the local reserve and notes its a great part time job for students.
Danielson notes the military offers solid employment, and notes its a good fit for those who have been laid off from forestry related jobs.
Anyone looking for more information on the reserves can Danielson at 466-3474
Bombadier Lynne Danielson is a recruitment officer with the local reserve and notes its a great part time job for students.
Danielson notes the military offers solid employment, and notes its a good fit for those who have been laid off from forestry related jobs.
Anyone looking for more information on the reserves can Danielson at 466-3474
Kenora Surplus
The City of Kenora actually posted a small surplus on its operationslast year.
Kenora City Council has approved the 2008 audited financial statement.
Councillor Rory McMillan says the audit shows the city is still is a prettysound financial situation.
Kenora had a surplus of about 119 thousand dollars last year.
There was also 22.6 million dollars in reserves, not including the41.3 million in the Citizan's Reserve Fund from the sale of KMTS.
Kenora City Council has approved the 2008 audited financial statement.
Councillor Rory McMillan says the audit shows the city is still is a prettysound financial situation.
Kenora had a surplus of about 119 thousand dollars last year.
There was also 22.6 million dollars in reserves, not including the41.3 million in the Citizan's Reserve Fund from the sale of KMTS.
Valley Liberal Candidate
The Kenora Riding Liberals are turning to a familiar face to lead their party once again.
Dryden's Roger Valley has been acclaimed as the Federal Liberal candidate.
Valley says his focus will be forestry.
Valley notes he will be ready to fight if a Federal Election is called this Fall.
Dryden's Roger Valley has been acclaimed as the Federal Liberal candidate.
Valley says his focus will be forestry.
Valley notes he will be ready to fight if a Federal Election is called this Fall.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
OPP Takeover Friday
The OPP will officially take over policing the City of Kenora at 7AMthis Friday morning.
Inspector Dave Lucas from the Kenora Detachment provided an update to the media yesterday about the transfer of police services.
Lucas says a majority of the officers from the KPS were hired on by the OPP.
Lucas says the OPP will have a total of 160 employees working in the City of Kenora by the time the official transfer takes over on Friday.
Officers will be working out of the Kenora Detachment on the ReddittRoad, the old Kenora Police Building and also the OPP's Water Street office.
Inspector Dave Lucas from the Kenora Detachment provided an update to the media yesterday about the transfer of police services.
Lucas says a majority of the officers from the KPS were hired on by the OPP.
Lucas says the OPP will have a total of 160 employees working in the City of Kenora by the time the official transfer takes over on Friday.
Officers will be working out of the Kenora Detachment on the ReddittRoad, the old Kenora Police Building and also the OPP's Water Street office.
Jones Road
Some residents of the James Road are so upset with the condition oftheir roadway, they held a meeting to decide what to do about thesituation.
Many property owners are upset that the surface treatment has beenripped up and replaced with a very coarse granular material.
Councillor Wendy Cutherbert attended the meeting and felt it wasvery productive.
Cuthberts says she's talked to the Operations Department about thesituation, and they have promised to look at the James Road try toresolve the concerns of the residents.
Many property owners are upset that the surface treatment has beenripped up and replaced with a very coarse granular material.
Councillor Wendy Cutherbert attended the meeting and felt it wasvery productive.
Cuthberts says she's talked to the Operations Department about thesituation, and they have promised to look at the James Road try toresolve the concerns of the residents.
Poirier Last Day
Kenora City Council has officially said farewell to one of its members.
Andrew Poirier attended his final meeting last night, after announcinghis resignation a week ago.
He says despite some challenges, he predicts good things for the city going forward.
Administration is expected to present several options to councilnext month on how to fill Poirier's vacancy.
He had been a member of council since the fall of 2003.
Andrew Poirier attended his final meeting last night, after announcinghis resignation a week ago.
He says despite some challenges, he predicts good things for the city going forward.
Administration is expected to present several options to councilnext month on how to fill Poirier's vacancy.
He had been a member of council since the fall of 2003.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Pacific Iron Ore Shoal Lake
Pacific Iron Ore has received the results from a study on its Seperation property in Northwestern Ontario.
The Separation Property consists of 21 unpatented mining claims and one mining lease.
The property is 70 kilometres north of Kenora and is located within the traditional land use area of the Whitedog First Nation.
The area has a history of precious metals exploration with work focusing on uranium and iron ore potential.
The company plans to complete its preliminary work and then seek a joint venture with the First Nation to further develop the property.
The Separation Property consists of 21 unpatented mining claims and one mining lease.
The property is 70 kilometres north of Kenora and is located within the traditional land use area of the Whitedog First Nation.
The area has a history of precious metals exploration with work focusing on uranium and iron ore potential.
The company plans to complete its preliminary work and then seek a joint venture with the First Nation to further develop the property.
Fort Frances Abitibi
Abitibi Bowater dusted off the idled number 6 paper machine at its Fort Frances mill.
The paper machine was restarted so that tests could be run to see if the machine could be used to produce different types of paper.
If the machine can be used to make different products, the Fort Frances operation will be more viable down the road.
Mill Manager John Harrison says they're testing to see how heavy they can make the sheet of paper.
After this week, the #6 paper machine will be shut down again due to the continuing market conditions.
The paper machine was restarted so that tests could be run to see if the machine could be used to produce different types of paper.
If the machine can be used to make different products, the Fort Frances operation will be more viable down the road.
Mill Manager John Harrison says they're testing to see how heavy they can make the sheet of paper.
After this week, the #6 paper machine will be shut down again due to the continuing market conditions.
Everton Resources in Kenora
There's a new mining company setting up shop in the Kenora area.
Everton Resources has tentatively agreed to acquire all of Hays Lake Gold.
The Ottawa based company has options to acquire land in the Shoal Lake region.
The Shoal Lake area contains two identified gold deposits.
The deal between the two mining companies means Everton will exchange its shares for Hays Lake Gold equity under an agreed-upon formula.
Everton Resources has tentatively agreed to acquire all of Hays Lake Gold.
The Ottawa based company has options to acquire land in the Shoal Lake region.
The Shoal Lake area contains two identified gold deposits.
The deal between the two mining companies means Everton will exchange its shares for Hays Lake Gold equity under an agreed-upon formula.
Water Levels
Outflow from the Norman Dam into the Winnipeg River has been reduced once again.
The Lake of the Woods Control Board says it cutback outlfow to 850cubic meters per second yesterday, down from 1000 cubic meters.
As a result of the reduction, water levels on the Winnipeg River arestarting to drop.
The river is down about two feet below the dam and is expected to dropanother two feet in the
next week or so.
Lake of the Woods also has seen a drop in water levels, with the lakedown about four inches over the last seven days.
The Lake of the Woods Control Board says it cutback outlfow to 850cubic meters per second yesterday, down from 1000 cubic meters.
As a result of the reduction, water levels on the Winnipeg River arestarting to drop.
The river is down about two feet below the dam and is expected to dropanother two feet in the
next week or so.
Lake of the Woods also has seen a drop in water levels, with the lakedown about four inches over the last seven days.
H1N1 Update
Northwestern Ontario is still considered one of the busiest regionsfor the H1N1 virus in the province.
The Ministry of Health updated statistics on the swine flu outbreakFriday afternoon and of the 175 new cases, 11 were located in the Northwestern Health Unit's catchment area.
There are now 60 confirmed H1n1 cases in the region, but all are considered mild
The Ministry of Health updated statistics on the swine flu outbreakFriday afternoon and of the 175 new cases, 11 were located in the Northwestern Health Unit's catchment area.
There are now 60 confirmed H1n1 cases in the region, but all are considered mild
Hunting Fine
An Oshawa man faces a two thousand dollar fine for illegally huntingin northwestern Ontario.
The MNR says a calf moose had been killed along a logging road eastof Ear Falls this past fall.
A conservation officer encounted a hunting party in the area andafter a lenghthy investigation, it was determined the moose hadbeen shot while one of the hunters was standing in the road near an intersection.
Rodolfo Kovic has been fined 15 hundred dollars for careless huntingand 500 dollars for providing a false statement to a conservation officer.
The MNR says a calf moose had been killed along a logging road eastof Ear Falls this past fall.
A conservation officer encounted a hunting party in the area andafter a lenghthy investigation, it was determined the moose hadbeen shot while one of the hunters was standing in the road near an intersection.
Rodolfo Kovic has been fined 15 hundred dollars for careless huntingand 500 dollars for providing a false statement to a conservation officer.
Gravelle on new Ministry
The Ministry of Northern Development and Mines is getting ready totake over responsibility for some forestry issues later this year.
The premier announced the change last month, which will see forestrymove out the Ministry of Natural Resoures.
Michael Gravelle heads up Northern Development and says his ministrywill basically take over economic development issues surrounding forestry.
Gravelle suggests the MNR will still handle the regulatory aspects offorestry, such as issuing harvesting licences.
The premier announced the change last month, which will see forestrymove out the Ministry of Natural Resoures.
Michael Gravelle heads up Northern Development and says his ministrywill basically take over economic development issues surrounding forestry.
Gravelle suggests the MNR will still handle the regulatory aspects offorestry, such as issuing harvesting licences.
Osnaburgh First Nation
Another first nation community in northwestern Ontario is gettingfunding from the provincial government for a new community center.
New Osnaburgh, which is located south of Pickle Lake, will be gettinga million dollars from the
Northern Ontario Heritage Fund to build thefacility.
The community center will include a fitness room, a gymnasium,locker rooms, washrooms, meeting rooms, a kitchen as well asan office.
The community says the center will serve as a local gathering placefor both the young and old.
New Osnaburgh, which is located south of Pickle Lake, will be gettinga million dollars from the
Northern Ontario Heritage Fund to build thefacility.
The community center will include a fitness room, a gymnasium,locker rooms, washrooms, meeting rooms, a kitchen as well asan office.
The community says the center will serve as a local gathering placefor both the young and old.
Fire Situation Update
The Kenora District has seen a couple of new forest fires over thepast couple of days.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says one of the blazes was locatedon an island near Sunset Channel on Lake of the Woods north of the Aulneau Peninsula.
Its believed the fire was human-caused, and the MNR is currently investigating.
Fire ranger crews are not actively battling the blaze, and instead willmonitor it for the time being.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says one of the blazes was locatedon an island near Sunset Channel on Lake of the Woods north of the Aulneau Peninsula.
Its believed the fire was human-caused, and the MNR is currently investigating.
Fire ranger crews are not actively battling the blaze, and instead willmonitor it for the time being.
Rafferty on Conservatives
Thunder Bay-Rainy River M-P John Rafferty is questioning the fairness of the infrastructure funding being handed out across the country.
Millions of dollars have been handed out to communities over the past several weeks.
But Rafferty says there's an impression Conservative ridings received far more money than areas being represented by other political parties.
Rafferty says the party is currently looking at the announcements to determine if these has been any bias.
Millions of dollars have been handed out to communities over the past several weeks.
But Rafferty says there's an impression Conservative ridings received far more money than areas being represented by other political parties.
Rafferty says the party is currently looking at the announcements to determine if these has been any bias.
Boil Water Advisory Lifted Again
Kenora residents can breathe a sigh of relief; Its finally safe to drink the tapwater in your home.
The Northwestern Health Unit has lifted the boil water advisory inthe City of Kenora, which had been in place since Thursday.
The boil water advisory was lifted on Sunday after the health unit determined there was no bacterial presence in the city's water supply.
The drinking water ban went into place after a second power bump resulted problems at the city's water treatment plant in Lakeside.
The Northwestern Health Unit has lifted the boil water advisory inthe City of Kenora, which had been in place since Thursday.
The boil water advisory was lifted on Sunday after the health unit determined there was no bacterial presence in the city's water supply.
The drinking water ban went into place after a second power bump resulted problems at the city's water treatment plant in Lakeside.
Missing Man found
The search for a missing man in northwestern Ontario is over.
Emergency response teams have found a man who was picked up by atornado that swept through a hunting and fishing resort in Ear Fallson Thursday.
Dennis Kinkaid of Ponca City, Oklahoma, was with two friends atthe Fisherman's Cove Resort in Ear Falls when the cabin the men werein was ripped from its foundation.
The cabin was tossed into the lake almost a kilometre away.
The bodies of Bernie Jackson and Stan Hollis, also from PoncaCity, were pulled from the water Friday.
Meanwhile, Environment Canada has classified last week's storm that lifted 2-cabins into a lake as an F-2 tornado.
Meteorologist Geoff Coulson says wind speeds reached upwards of 240 kilometres an hour during Thursday's tornado at Fisherman's Cove Resort.
Emergency response teams have found a man who was picked up by atornado that swept through a hunting and fishing resort in Ear Fallson Thursday.
Dennis Kinkaid of Ponca City, Oklahoma, was with two friends atthe Fisherman's Cove Resort in Ear Falls when the cabin the men werein was ripped from its foundation.
The cabin was tossed into the lake almost a kilometre away.
The bodies of Bernie Jackson and Stan Hollis, also from PoncaCity, were pulled from the water Friday.
Meanwhile, Environment Canada has classified last week's storm that lifted 2-cabins into a lake as an F-2 tornado.
Meteorologist Geoff Coulson says wind speeds reached upwards of 240 kilometres an hour during Thursday's tornado at Fisherman's Cove Resort.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Build Canada Fund
Kenora M-P Greg Rickford is critical over what he says is the N-D-P's failure to support the government's economic action plan.
Both the federal government and provincial governments have been announcing grants for northwestern Ontario in recent weeks.
The Conservative M-P says 80 per cent of the government's plan has been implemented.
Rickford says the millions of dollars that have flowed to northwestern Ontario can only help the area prosper.
Both the federal government and provincial governments have been announcing grants for northwestern Ontario in recent weeks.
The Conservative M-P says 80 per cent of the government's plan has been implemented.
Rickford says the millions of dollars that have flowed to northwestern Ontario can only help the area prosper.
NOHFC Mining Funding
The Northern Ontario Heritage Funding is providing 120 thousand dollars to help expand the market for companies that support the mining industry in the region.
Ontario's North Economic Development Corporation will be spearheading a research project.
Northern Development and Mines Minister, Michael Gravelle says mining supply and services are definitely growth areas for the province.
Gravelle says the North Economic Development Corporation will be working with companies in the region to determine which global markets could provide the greatest opportunities for growth.
Ontario's North Economic Development Corporation will be spearheading a research project.
Northern Development and Mines Minister, Michael Gravelle says mining supply and services are definitely growth areas for the province.
Gravelle says the North Economic Development Corporation will be working with companies in the region to determine which global markets could provide the greatest opportunities for growth.
Possible Tornado
Environment Canada suspects a tornado may have touched down in the Ear Falls area.
Two people are dead and five others were injured at a tourist camp on Lac Seul.
Two people are dead and five others were injured at a tourist camp on Lac Seul.
At least three cabins at Fisherman's Cove were destroyed by a storm that passed through the area last night.
Geoff Coulson says early indications suggest it was a tornado.
O-P-P also says one person from the camp is still unaccounted for.
Hydro One Power Outage
Several Hydro One customers in the Kenora area are without power this morning.
Shortly after midnight last night, 138 Kenora residents lost their power.
Spokesperson Cory Labbatt says the power outage affects Main land and island residents.
A Hydro One crew is flying to the island this morning, and hopes to restore the power.
Shortly after midnight last night, 138 Kenora residents lost their power.
Spokesperson Cory Labbatt says the power outage affects Main land and island residents.
A Hydro One crew is flying to the island this morning, and hopes to restore the power.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
A New Boil Water Advisory Issued
Yet another boil water advisory has been issued in the City of Kenora.
This is the second advisory in less than a week.
Operations manager Rick Perchuck says a power outage this morning resulted in low water pressure in the city's distribution system.
Perchuck says they will be carrying out work on the the water holding tank on 4th Street North over the next three to four weeks, so there is still the possibility of more boil water advisories, if the power goes outagain for any length of time.
The advisory is expected to be in effect right through the weekend.
This is the second advisory in less than a week.
Operations manager Rick Perchuck says a power outage this morning resulted in low water pressure in the city's distribution system.
Perchuck says they will be carrying out work on the the water holding tank on 4th Street North over the next three to four weeks, so there is still the possibility of more boil water advisories, if the power goes outagain for any length of time.
The advisory is expected to be in effect right through the weekend.
Free Fishing Weekend
Its time to grab the fishing rod and head out to the lake.
Its National Fishing Week and Spokesperson Mike Melnyk says the goal is to get more people interested in the activity.
License free fishing will be held throughout the Region July 10th to 12th.
For fishing tips you can log onto www.catchfishing.com.
Its National Fishing Week and Spokesperson Mike Melnyk says the goal is to get more people interested in the activity.
License free fishing will be held throughout the Region July 10th to 12th.
For fishing tips you can log onto www.catchfishing.com.
Whiskey Jack Forest Licence
Ontario's Natural Resources Minister Donna Cansfield says she'spleased with the progress she's seen to date on the Cooperative Forest Licence for the Whiskey Jack Forest north of Kenora.
The MNR had hoped to have the forest licence ready to roll out by thispast April.
Cansfield admits the process has been time consuming, but she's satisfied with the process that they're engaged in.
The province plans to merge the Whiskey Jack and Kenora Forests under one co-operative forest licence, which will involve forest companies,first nation communities and other local stakeholders.
The MNR had hoped to have the forest licence ready to roll out by thispast April.
Cansfield admits the process has been time consuming, but she's satisfied with the process that they're engaged in.
The province plans to merge the Whiskey Jack and Kenora Forests under one co-operative forest licence, which will involve forest companies,first nation communities and other local stakeholders.
Odd Jobs Week
Northwestern Ontario's Service Canada Youth Employment Centre's are promoting odd jobs in their communities.
It's Odd Jobs Week in Ontario.
Local Youth Services Officer Dayna Debenedet says they want to encourage local businesses to consider hiring a youth even for just a few hours.
The Kenora Youth Employment Centre is located in the Market Square and is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 to 4pm.
It's Odd Jobs Week in Ontario.
Local Youth Services Officer Dayna Debenedet says they want to encourage local businesses to consider hiring a youth even for just a few hours.
The Kenora Youth Employment Centre is located in the Market Square and is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 to 4pm.
Fire and Emergency Services Plan
The City of Kenora has a massive new emergency plan.
A final draft of the 130 page document was presented to Kenora citycouncil this week.
Kenora's chief of Fire and Emergency Services, Warren Brinkman saysthey will be providing copies of the plan to other agencies throughout the community.
Brinkman says the plan outlines every emergency scenario, including what to do during a pandemic.
He adds that while the city has a role to play in any major outbreak, it will be following the lead of the Northwestern Health Unit.
A final draft of the 130 page document was presented to Kenora citycouncil this week.
Kenora's chief of Fire and Emergency Services, Warren Brinkman saysthey will be providing copies of the plan to other agencies throughout the community.
Brinkman says the plan outlines every emergency scenario, including what to do during a pandemic.
He adds that while the city has a role to play in any major outbreak, it will be following the lead of the Northwestern Health Unit.
Pikangikum Funding
The community of Pikangikum is getting funding from the provincialgovernment to help build a new multi-purpose center.
The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund is providing another 485 thousanddollars to the project.
It had also pledged just over 500 thousand dollars last year.
Pikangikum says its building a facility that will include a gymnasium, a fitness complex, and a early childhood center.
The community says it will be promoting healthy lifestyles with thedevelopment of the multi-purpose center.
The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund is providing another 485 thousanddollars to the project.
It had also pledged just over 500 thousand dollars last year.
Pikangikum says its building a facility that will include a gymnasium, a fitness complex, and a early childhood center.
The community says it will be promoting healthy lifestyles with thedevelopment of the multi-purpose center.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Farmers Market
Over 75 vendors will be selling their wares under the big tent on the Kenora Harbourfront this Wednesday.
The community is welcoming back the Farmers Market.
The farmers market will open at 9am and close at 2:30 in the afternoon.
The community is welcoming back the Farmers Market.
The farmers market will open at 9am and close at 2:30 in the afternoon.
Sioux Narrows Fatality
A 23 year old St. Catharines man is dead after being reported missing onLake of the Woods last week.
The OPP says they were contacted by Totem Lodge after one of theiremployees failed to show up for work.
He could not be located and was reported as missing.
The OPP's Emergency Response Team was called in and began a search of the area.
The body of the 23 year old was found near the shore.
The OPP says they were contacted by Totem Lodge after one of theiremployees failed to show up for work.
He could not be located and was reported as missing.
The OPP's Emergency Response Team was called in and began a search of the area.
The body of the 23 year old was found near the shore.
Body Found Sioux Narrows
A 23 year old St. Catharines man is dead after being reported missing onLake of the Woods last week.
The OPP says they were contacted by Totem Lodge after one of theiremployees failed to show up for work.
He could not be located and was reported as missing.
The OPP's Emergency Response Team was called in and began a search of the area.
The body of the 23 year old was found near the shore.
The OPP says they were contacted by Totem Lodge after one of theiremployees failed to show up for work.
He could not be located and was reported as missing.
The OPP's Emergency Response Team was called in and began a search of the area.
The body of the 23 year old was found near the shore.
Recreation Centre Rates
Its going to cost more to rent ice, swim, work out, or rent rooms at theKenora Rec. Center starting this fall.
Kenora City council has tentatively approved a number of rate increases at the recreation facility.
Colleen Neil is the city's recreation manager and says many of the rateshave remained unchanged for years.
Neil adds that ice rental rates will go up about five percent across the board starting in September.
This is the first rate increase since 2007.
Kenora City council has tentatively approved a number of rate increases at the recreation facility.
Colleen Neil is the city's recreation manager and says many of the rateshave remained unchanged for years.
Neil adds that ice rental rates will go up about five percent across the board starting in September.
This is the first rate increase since 2007.
NOHFC Arts Money
A community-based arts project is getting a shot in the arm from theNorthern Ontario Heritage Fund.
The Community Arts and Heritage Education Project is getting a grant for 30 thousand dollars to support its efforts.
Northern Development and Mines Minister, Michael Gravelle says thefunding will help expand the work of the arts group.
Gravelle says the funding will bring workshops and seminars in artseducation into northern communities.
The Community ARts and Heritage Education Project currently haspartners across the region, including Kenora, Dryden, Fort Frances,Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout.
The Community Arts and Heritage Education Project is getting a grant for 30 thousand dollars to support its efforts.
Northern Development and Mines Minister, Michael Gravelle says thefunding will help expand the work of the arts group.
Gravelle says the funding will bring workshops and seminars in artseducation into northern communities.
The Community ARts and Heritage Education Project currently haspartners across the region, including Kenora, Dryden, Fort Frances,Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout.
Thieves in Sioux Narrows
The OPP is investigating a rash of thefts in the Sioux Narrows area.
Police say in one instance, some money was stolen from the cashregister of a business in the town.
The provincial police say they have also received numerous complaintsof camps being broken into, but at this point, its unclear what might have been stolen.
The OPP say alcohol, electronic items and firearms are the usual targetsof thieves and cottage owners are reminded to take appropriate steps to protect their property.
Police say in one instance, some money was stolen from the cashregister of a business in the town.
The provincial police say they have also received numerous complaintsof camps being broken into, but at this point, its unclear what might have been stolen.
The OPP say alcohol, electronic items and firearms are the usual targetsof thieves and cottage owners are reminded to take appropriate steps to protect their property.
No Free Passes
Kenora City Council is balking at giving medical students and internsfree passes to use the wellness center at the Kenora Rec. Center.
Councillor Rory McMillan raised the issue at a committee meeting thisweek.
He suggests the free passes are a good way of attracting medicalprofessionals to the community.
However, other councillors don't think the city should be footing thebill for the passes, especially since the Rec. Center is already operatingwith a sizable deficit.
In the end, council agreed that if other organizations, like the Economic Development Commission, want to pay the cost of the passes, that would be acceptible.
Councillor Rory McMillan raised the issue at a committee meeting thisweek.
He suggests the free passes are a good way of attracting medicalprofessionals to the community.
However, other councillors don't think the city should be footing thebill for the passes, especially since the Rec. Center is already operatingwith a sizable deficit.
In the end, council agreed that if other organizations, like the Economic Development Commission, want to pay the cost of the passes, that would be acceptible.
Recreation Centre Review
A Winnipeg company has been hired by the City of Kenora to review recreational services and facilities in the community.
Scatliff, Miller and Murray Incorporated had the only complete bidto do the work.
It will cost the city 50 thousand dollars for the study to be completed.
Recreation Manager Colleen Neil says the report will not only focus on the mechanical health of Rec. Center, but also the services provided in the facility.
Its expected the study will be complete by the fall.
Scatliff, Miller and Murray Incorporated had the only complete bidto do the work.
It will cost the city 50 thousand dollars for the study to be completed.
Recreation Manager Colleen Neil says the report will not only focus on the mechanical health of Rec. Center, but also the services provided in the facility.
Its expected the study will be complete by the fall.
Forest Fires Human Caused
Two new forest fires were reported in northwestern Ontario yesterday, both caused by people.
One of the human caused fires was in the Kenora District and has been put out.
Fire Information Officer Debbie McLean reminds the public to follow the rules when burning grass and brush.
The forest fire hazard is high across much of the Kenora District.
One of the human caused fires was in the Kenora District and has been put out.
Fire Information Officer Debbie McLean reminds the public to follow the rules when burning grass and brush.
The forest fire hazard is high across much of the Kenora District.
Kenora Swimming Sharks
14 swimmers from Kenora brought home 40 medals between them.
Paige Murphy: 2 gold, 5 silver, 1bronze
Michelle Balcaen: 2 gold, 3 silver, 3 bronze
Kaity Inookee: 1 gold, 1 silver, 3 bronze
Alex Olsen: 3 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze
Ronan Cameron: 3 gold, 2 silver
Chetenne Cameron: 2 Gold, 2 bronze
Conor O'Flaherty: 1Gold
Sara Marcine: 1 bronze
Tasha Schabler: 1 Bronze
Winnie Boucha: 1 silver
Bryce Jones: 1 bronze
Paige Murphy: 2 gold, 5 silver, 1bronze
Michelle Balcaen: 2 gold, 3 silver, 3 bronze
Kaity Inookee: 1 gold, 1 silver, 3 bronze
Alex Olsen: 3 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze
Ronan Cameron: 3 gold, 2 silver
Chetenne Cameron: 2 Gold, 2 bronze
Conor O'Flaherty: 1Gold
Sara Marcine: 1 bronze
Tasha Schabler: 1 Bronze
Winnie Boucha: 1 silver
Bryce Jones: 1 bronze
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
June Weather Review
Northwestern Ontario residents can expect a cooler than normal summer.
Environment Canada says last month was a degree and a half cooler in Kenora.
Climatologist Chris Hampel says the colder than normal weather will continue.
Hampel notes the region will also see less rainfall in July and August.
Environment Canada says last month was a degree and a half cooler in Kenora.
Climatologist Chris Hampel says the colder than normal weather will continue.
Hampel notes the region will also see less rainfall in July and August.
Above and Beyond Canada
There's an unusual Cross Canada tour making its way to Kenora.
Above and Beyond Canada is a group of individuals who are flying a powered paraglider 10 thousand km across the country.
Spokesperson Benjamin Gordon says they're fundraising to send kids to camp.
Gordon and his crew will be arriving some time this afternoon at Anicinabe Park.
Visit www.aboveandbeyondcanada.com
Above and Beyond Canada is a group of individuals who are flying a powered paraglider 10 thousand km across the country.
Spokesperson Benjamin Gordon says they're fundraising to send kids to camp.
Gordon and his crew will be arriving some time this afternoon at Anicinabe Park.
Visit www.aboveandbeyondcanada.com
Boil Water Advisory
Its going to be a few more days before the water in the City of Kenorais considered safe to drink again.
A boil water advisory was put in place on Saturday night following apower bump at the water treatment plant in Lakeside.
Operations manager, Rick Perchuck says part of the problem was thatmaintenance work was being carried out at the plant at the time ofthe power outage.
The Northwestern Health Unit says it needs to have two clear watertests back before it can lift the boil water advisory.
That's not expected to happen until the end of the week.
A boil water advisory was put in place on Saturday night following apower bump at the water treatment plant in Lakeside.
Operations manager, Rick Perchuck says part of the problem was thatmaintenance work was being carried out at the plant at the time ofthe power outage.
The Northwestern Health Unit says it needs to have two clear watertests back before it can lift the boil water advisory.
That's not expected to happen until the end of the week.
Fire Hall
Kenora's Fire and Emergency Services Department is hoping to put atender out on the new fire hall before the end of this month.
The detailed design is being finalized and should be ready to out totender by July 20th.
David Nelson has been working on the project and says there is stillspace to add a land ambulence base, if the Kenora District Services Board has a change of heart.
Fire chief Warren Brinkman says he's looking for alternate sourcesof funding for the project, including the Northern Ontario Heritage Funding and FedNor.
The detailed design is being finalized and should be ready to out totender by July 20th.
David Nelson has been working on the project and says there is stillspace to add a land ambulence base, if the Kenora District Services Board has a change of heart.
Fire chief Warren Brinkman says he's looking for alternate sourcesof funding for the project, including the Northern Ontario Heritage Funding and FedNor.
Keewatin Memorial Arena
Its going to cost the City of Kenora over 30 thousand dollars to getthe Keewatin Memorial Arena ready for summer ice.
Recreation Manager Colleen Neil says they did an inspection of the facility recently and discovered a number of deficiencies.
The work will include amonia detection upgrades, brine pumps, valvesand water pump repair.
Neil says they hope to have all the work complete before the end of the month.
Recreation Manager Colleen Neil says they did an inspection of the facility recently and discovered a number of deficiencies.
The work will include amonia detection upgrades, brine pumps, valvesand water pump repair.
Neil says they hope to have all the work complete before the end of the month.
Family Day Kenora
The Kenora Rec. Center could be open once again on Family Day in 2010.
Council says its willing to put the item into next years budget.
Chair of the Community Services Committee, Chris Van Wallenghem says Keewatin Arena wasn't used very much last year, so it won't be included next year.
But he says it was likely one of the busiest days of the year for the Kenora Rec. Center.
He adds that it will likely cost about 38 hundred dollars to operatethe Rec. Center on the Statutory Holiday.
Council says its willing to put the item into next years budget.
Chair of the Community Services Committee, Chris Van Wallenghem says Keewatin Arena wasn't used very much last year, so it won't be included next year.
But he says it was likely one of the busiest days of the year for the Kenora Rec. Center.
He adds that it will likely cost about 38 hundred dollars to operatethe Rec. Center on the Statutory Holiday.
OPP Parking
The Ontario Provincial Police will have access to some free parkingon Water Street in front of their building.
Council says its willing to approve the removal of three parking metersin front of the former Communications Center.
Councillor Dave McCann says it will offer the community some extrapolice visibility if police cars are parked there.
He feels it will more than make up for a potential loss in revenue fromthe parking meters.
Council says its willing to approve the removal of three parking metersin front of the former Communications Center.
Councillor Dave McCann says it will offer the community some extrapolice visibility if police cars are parked there.
He feels it will more than make up for a potential loss in revenue fromthe parking meters.
Blood Donor Clinic Today
The Summer Blood Donor Clinic resumes at St. Thomas Aquinas High School today.
Yesterday, 120 units of blood were collected.
Spokesperson Harvey Heather encourages people to attend today's clinic.
The clinic runs from 9:30 until 12:30.
Yesterday, 120 units of blood were collected.
Spokesperson Harvey Heather encourages people to attend today's clinic.
The clinic runs from 9:30 until 12:30.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Outflow Control Board
For the first time in more than a month, outflow from the NormanDam into the Winnipeg River has been reduced.
The Lake of the Woods Control Board says outflow has been reducedby about 80 cubic meters per second, as water levels on the lake continue to drop.
Lake levels went down almost three inches this past week, and expected to drop a similar amount over the next seven days.
As for the Winnipeg River, its expected to decrease by about eight inches over the next week with the reduction of outflows from the Norman Dam.
The Lake of the Woods Control Board says outflow has been reducedby about 80 cubic meters per second, as water levels on the lake continue to drop.
Lake levels went down almost three inches this past week, and expected to drop a similar amount over the next seven days.
As for the Winnipeg River, its expected to decrease by about eight inches over the next week with the reduction of outflows from the Norman Dam.
Health Unit Flu
Northwestern Ontario continues to be one of the busiest in termsof active cases of the swine flu virus.
The Ontario Ministry of Health says there were 15 new confirmed casesof the H1N1 virus this past week in the Northwestern Health Unitcatchment area, which includes remote first nation communities in the far north.
There are currently 49 active cases of H1N1 in this region and justfive in the Thunder Bay Health Unit.
The Ontario Ministry of Health says there were 15 new confirmed casesof the H1N1 virus this past week in the Northwestern Health Unitcatchment area, which includes remote first nation communities in the far north.
There are currently 49 active cases of H1N1 in this region and justfive in the Thunder Bay Health Unit.
Wincrief Forest Products
One of Kenora's newest industries was shown off to the public Friday.
Wincrief Forest Products is a partnership between Moncrief Construction and the Wabaseemung First Nation.
Since the beginning of April, the company has been building prefabricated homes, most of which will end up on first nation communities.
Chief Eric Fisher from Wabaseemung says the first eight homes willbe placed in his community.
He's hoping that by next year, they will be able to build as many as28 new modular homes.
Wincrief Forest Products is a partnership between Moncrief Construction and the Wabaseemung First Nation.
Since the beginning of April, the company has been building prefabricated homes, most of which will end up on first nation communities.
Chief Eric Fisher from Wabaseemung says the first eight homes willbe placed in his community.
He's hoping that by next year, they will be able to build as many as28 new modular homes.
Cansfield Visits Kenora
Bureaucrats with the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Ministry ofNorthern Development and Mines have started work to move forestry out of the MNR.
Premier Dalton McGuinty announced last month that he wanted Northern Development and Mines to take over responsibility for forest issues.
Natural Resources Minister Donna Cansfield says there are a number of issues that still have to be worked out.
Cansfield suggests that her ministry will still have some responsibility for forest issues that pertain to the Species At Risk Act, Invasive Species and maintaining water quality.
She made her comments during a short visit to Kenora on Friday.
Premier Dalton McGuinty announced last month that he wanted Northern Development and Mines to take over responsibility for forest issues.
Natural Resources Minister Donna Cansfield says there are a number of issues that still have to be worked out.
Cansfield suggests that her ministry will still have some responsibility for forest issues that pertain to the Species At Risk Act, Invasive Species and maintaining water quality.
She made her comments during a short visit to Kenora on Friday.
Blood Donor Clinic
Canadian Blood Services is hoping for over 280 donors to its annualsummer blood donor clinic this week in Kenora.
The clinic will start this afternoon at the Thomas Aquinas Gym.
Michael Hyduk is a spokesperson for CBS and says they have changedtheir hours slightly for the clinic.
The clinic will run from 4:30 to 9:00 this evening and again tomorrowfrom 9:30 in the morning until 12:30.
The clinic will start this afternoon at the Thomas Aquinas Gym.
Michael Hyduk is a spokesperson for CBS and says they have changedtheir hours slightly for the clinic.
The clinic will run from 4:30 to 9:00 this evening and again tomorrowfrom 9:30 in the morning until 12:30.
Biz Kids Camp
The Northwest Business Centre is holding its week long Biz Kid camp again this summer.
Outreach Co-ordinator Mike McCaffrey says the region's future depends on a thriving business community.
The day long camp sessions will run from July 20th until the 24th.
Anyone interested in signing up their kids can contact the NW Business Centre at 467-4635.
Outreach Co-ordinator Mike McCaffrey says the region's future depends on a thriving business community.
The day long camp sessions will run from July 20th until the 24th.
Anyone interested in signing up their kids can contact the NW Business Centre at 467-4635.
Boil Water Advisory Kenora
The entire City of Kenora is under a boil water advisory.
The safety of the municipalities drinking water can not be guaranteed at this time.
Until the safety of the water supply can be assured, all water from the City distribution system must be boiled for at least a minute.
Water must be boiled if it is to be used for human consumption, that includes brushing your teeth and washing dishes.
The boil water advisory will remain in effect until it is rescinded by the City of Kenora and Northwestern Health Unit.
The safety of the municipalities drinking water can not be guaranteed at this time.
Until the safety of the water supply can be assured, all water from the City distribution system must be boiled for at least a minute.
Water must be boiled if it is to be used for human consumption, that includes brushing your teeth and washing dishes.
The boil water advisory will remain in effect until it is rescinded by the City of Kenora and Northwestern Health Unit.
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