The Provincial Government is asking Hydro One to begin with the planning and implementation of 20 major transmission projects across Ontario, including 10-specific projects in Northern
Ontario.
Minister of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry Michael Gravelle says about 2.3-million dollars will be spent by Hydro One over the next 3-years.
This includes an upgrade of a line between Thunder Bay and Kenora.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Parson sworn in
The newest member of Kenora City Council has officially been sworn in.
Jim Parson took his oath of office yesterday afternoon at the end of the open meeting of council.
Parson is retiring next month as the C.P.R. station manager and says he was looking for a new challenge.
Parson replaces Andrew Poirier, who resigned at the end of July.
Parson will the city's Utilities and Communications Committee and be vice-chair of Emergency Services.
Jim Parson took his oath of office yesterday afternoon at the end of the open meeting of council.
Parson is retiring next month as the C.P.R. station manager and says he was looking for a new challenge.
Parson replaces Andrew Poirier, who resigned at the end of July.
Parson will the city's Utilities and Communications Committee and be vice-chair of Emergency Services.
New Fire Hall Approved
Kenora City Council has voted unanimously to spend almost six million dollars to build a new fire hall on Barsky's Hill.
Construction is expected to begin over the next few weeks and be complete by the end of next summer.
Kenora Fire Chief Warren Brinkman says the project has been in the planning stages for almost 10 years and is releived that the city has finally given the go ahead.
Brinkman says the current fire hall on 2nd Street South has long since served its purpose.
It was built in 1912 and can no longer accomodate the larger vehicles needed to fight fires these days.
Construction is expected to begin over the next few weeks and be complete by the end of next summer.
Kenora Fire Chief Warren Brinkman says the project has been in the planning stages for almost 10 years and is releived that the city has finally given the go ahead.
Brinkman says the current fire hall on 2nd Street South has long since served its purpose.
It was built in 1912 and can no longer accomodate the larger vehicles needed to fight fires these days.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Peace March
The Community Peace Project will be holding a peace walk this evening to mark the United Nations International Peace Day.
The walk will leave from the Harbourfront Pavilion shortly after 5:00 and head to Husky the Muskie and return with peace balloons.
The march will end with a Mexican traditional drum for peace with percussion instruments to celebrating the end of summer and peace in our community.
The walk will leave from the Harbourfront Pavilion shortly after 5:00 and head to Husky the Muskie and return with peace balloons.
The march will end with a Mexican traditional drum for peace with percussion instruments to celebrating the end of summer and peace in our community.
Nestor Falls fine
A Nestor Falls campowner is facing a hefty fine for illegal deer hunting activity.
Dean Roy is the owner and operator of Meline's Lodge and Guide Service and was fined six thousand dollars for hunting out of season and lying to a conservation officer.
The charges date back to November of 2008, when Roy acted as a guide for three non-resident hunters in a closed season for deer.
One of the deer killed by the hunters was stored at the resort, but when asked about the hunt the next day by the MNR, he denied any knowlege of it.
Conservation officers located the hidden deer and charged Roy with two offenses under the Fish and Wildlife Act.
Dean Roy is the owner and operator of Meline's Lodge and Guide Service and was fined six thousand dollars for hunting out of season and lying to a conservation officer.
The charges date back to November of 2008, when Roy acted as a guide for three non-resident hunters in a closed season for deer.
One of the deer killed by the hunters was stored at the resort, but when asked about the hunt the next day by the MNR, he denied any knowlege of it.
Conservation officers located the hidden deer and charged Roy with two offenses under the Fish and Wildlife Act.
Forestry Caucus Proposed
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty is calling for the development of an all-party caucus committee focusing on forestry.
The N-D-P forestry critic says given the state of the industry, it makes sense to form such a committee.
Rafferty says there are also similar committee's focusing on issues related to the steel industry as well as border issues.
The N-D-P forestry critic says given the state of the industry, it makes sense to form such a committee.
Rafferty says there are also similar committee's focusing on issues related to the steel industry as well as border issues.
Mining Agreement in Place
Several first nation communities in the Rainy River district are expected to benefit from a new agreement signed with a Vancouver-based mining firm.
The memorandum of agreement between Brett Resources and the Fort Frances Chiefs Secretariat and the Lac Des Mille Lac First Nation set out processes toward an Impact Benefits
Agreement surrounding the company's exploration activities of the Hammond Reef Gold Deposit near Atikokan.
Company president Patrick Soares says the agreement would identify a number of issues.
Soares says the agreement is believe to the first of its kind for the area.
The memorandum of agreement between Brett Resources and the Fort Frances Chiefs Secretariat and the Lac Des Mille Lac First Nation set out processes toward an Impact Benefits
Agreement surrounding the company's exploration activities of the Hammond Reef Gold Deposit near Atikokan.
Company president Patrick Soares says the agreement would identify a number of issues.
Soares says the agreement is believe to the first of its kind for the area.
Shoreline Clean-up
It's time to pitch in and help clean up Kenora's shoreline.
The TD Great Canadian Shoreline Clean Up will be held in our community once again.
Lake of the Woods Property Owners Association Spokesperson Rosemary Robertson says they'll be tracking what type of garbage they pick up.
Anyone interested in volunteering needs to be at Safeway at 12:30 the day of the event.
The TD Great Canadian Shoreline Clean Up will be held in our community once again.
Lake of the Woods Property Owners Association Spokesperson Rosemary Robertson says they'll be tracking what type of garbage they pick up.
Anyone interested in volunteering needs to be at Safeway at 12:30 the day of the event.
American Hunter Fined
A Minnesota man has been fined three thousand dollars for illegally hunting deer in the Kenora area.
In October of 2006, a hunter was travelling down the Worona Road with a guide they they spotted a couple of deer crossing the road.
The MNR says John Kosnitch got out of the truck and shot a buck in the middle of the road in the direction of a number of homes and cottages in the area.
Later that day he transported the deer back to Minnesota with him.
He was fined 25 hundred dollars for careless hunting and 500 dollars for transporting illegally killed wildlife.
In October of 2006, a hunter was travelling down the Worona Road with a guide they they spotted a couple of deer crossing the road.
The MNR says John Kosnitch got out of the truck and shot a buck in the middle of the road in the direction of a number of homes and cottages in the area.
Later that day he transported the deer back to Minnesota with him.
He was fined 25 hundred dollars for careless hunting and 500 dollars for transporting illegally killed wildlife.
Animal Welfare Committee
Kenora City Council is planning to set up a special committee to deal specifically with animal welfare.
A total of eight people will sit on the committee, including representitives from Rescue North, It's a Dog's Life, the Cat Shelter and the Kenora Veternary Clinic.
Council is also seeking a member from the public to sit on the committee.
The City decided to set up the committee after Rescue North approached council about supporting their efforts.
The animal rescue agency told council last month that its running short of funds and is seeking help from the community.
A total of eight people will sit on the committee, including representitives from Rescue North, It's a Dog's Life, the Cat Shelter and the Kenora Veternary Clinic.
Council is also seeking a member from the public to sit on the committee.
The City decided to set up the committee after Rescue North approached council about supporting their efforts.
The animal rescue agency told council last month that its running short of funds and is seeking help from the community.
More EQAO results
The Kenora Catholic District School Board says its sees mostly positives from the most recent Education Quality and Accountability Office test scores.
Grade three and grade six students received their results for math, reading and writing tests conducted last year.
Phylis Aikre is the director of education and says while they exceeded provincial standards in math, scores were a little lower in reading and writing.
Aikre adds they had very good scores from the math tests done by grade nine students.
She says both applied and academic students exceeded the provincial standard.
Grade three and grade six students received their results for math, reading and writing tests conducted last year.
Phylis Aikre is the director of education and says while they exceeded provincial standards in math, scores were a little lower in reading and writing.
Aikre adds they had very good scores from the math tests done by grade nine students.
She says both applied and academic students exceeded the provincial standard.
Kenora Invitational Volleyball
Beaver Brae took top honors at the Kenora Invitational Boys Volleyball tournament overthe weekend.
The Broncos beat their cross-town rivals from Thomas Aquinas in the gold medal game inthe senior boys division.
In the junior tournament, Fort Frances got by Dryden to claim gold, while T.A. had to settlefor third place overall.
The Broncos beat their cross-town rivals from Thomas Aquinas in the gold medal game inthe senior boys division.
In the junior tournament, Fort Frances got by Dryden to claim gold, while T.A. had to settlefor third place overall.
Broncos win again
An impressive win for Beaver Brae's football team.
The Broncos eked out a 24-23 victory over the River East Kodiaks Fridayat Pete Fair Memorial Field.
Broncos Head coach Chris Penner says the game was a real charactertest for his squad.
Jeff Trudeau had 10 of the Bronco points, including a single off a missedfield goal as time expired.
The Broncos improved to 2-0 in the Winnipeg High School Football League.
Their next game is Thursday when Beaver Brae travels to PortageLa Prairie to face the Trojans.
The Broncos eked out a 24-23 victory over the River East Kodiaks Fridayat Pete Fair Memorial Field.
Broncos Head coach Chris Penner says the game was a real charactertest for his squad.
Jeff Trudeau had 10 of the Bronco points, including a single off a missedfield goal as time expired.
The Broncos improved to 2-0 in the Winnipeg High School Football League.
Their next game is Thursday when Beaver Brae travels to PortageLa Prairie to face the Trojans.
Friday, September 18, 2009
TransCanada Fatal
A 29-year-old Winnipeg man is charged with a non-criminal offence following an accident in northern Ontario that left one man dead.
A pick-up truck crashed into a small car on Highway 17 on Wednesday, about 50 kilometres east of White River.
The crash killed the car driver -- 46-year-old Alexander Duffittof Fox Creek, Alberta.
The pick-up driver -- who was charged with ``drive left of centre'' -- and two other men suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
A pick-up truck crashed into a small car on Highway 17 on Wednesday, about 50 kilometres east of White River.
The crash killed the car driver -- 46-year-old Alexander Duffittof Fox Creek, Alberta.
The pick-up driver -- who was charged with ``drive left of centre'' -- and two other men suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
Bears Fort Frances
Black bears not expected to go into hibernation for at least another month and Fort Frances residents are being warned to watchout for prowling bruins.
Bylaw enforcement officer Arlene Byrnes says numbers are on parwith last year.
By the time bears started going into hibernation last October, the town had received a total of 40 reports.
Byrnes says residents should avoid attracting bears to their property by doing things such as picking apples have fallen off trees and can attract bears.
Bylaw enforcement officer Arlene Byrnes says numbers are on parwith last year.
By the time bears started going into hibernation last October, the town had received a total of 40 reports.
Byrnes says residents should avoid attracting bears to their property by doing things such as picking apples have fallen off trees and can attract bears.
Abitibi Bowater
Fort Frances couldn't be spared from the latest cost cutting measures announced by Abitibi-Bowater.
The Montreal-based company is halting production at its commercial printing paper plant in Fort Frances effective October 31st.
A total of 75 employees will be impacted.
It is one of four operations across the country to be shutdown.
The Montreal-based company is halting production at its commercial printing paper plant in Fort Frances effective October 31st.
A total of 75 employees will be impacted.
It is one of four operations across the country to be shutdown.
Schools Building Schools
Schools building schools.
That's the new program being put on by Rotary and area highschools.
St. Thomas Aquinas Chaplin Dean Woodbeck says he's happy to help fundraise for a new school in Guatamala.
Dryden Highschool and Queen Elizabeth High School in Sioux Lookout will also be fundraising for the project.
That's the new program being put on by Rotary and area highschools.
St. Thomas Aquinas Chaplin Dean Woodbeck says he's happy to help fundraise for a new school in Guatamala.
Dryden Highschool and Queen Elizabeth High School in Sioux Lookout will also be fundraising for the project.
Greyhound Rickford
Kenora MP Greg Rickford is hopeful a resolution will be reached between the Provincial Governments and Greyhound Canada.
The bus company stated that they are having meaningful dialogue with the Manitoba Government.
Rickford says they are encouraging the Ontario Government to do the same.
The bus company's recent threat was aimed at squeezing 15 million dollars a year in subsidies out of the provincial governments.
Greyhound hopes to talk with the Ontario government soon, warning it could still pull the plug in December if things don't work out.
The bus company stated that they are having meaningful dialogue with the Manitoba Government.
Rickford says they are encouraging the Ontario Government to do the same.
The bus company's recent threat was aimed at squeezing 15 million dollars a year in subsidies out of the provincial governments.
Greyhound hopes to talk with the Ontario government soon, warning it could still pull the plug in December if things don't work out.
Pandemic Planning
Schools in the Kenora area are bracing for an increase in flu activity this fall.
The Northwestern Health Unit has set up a pandemic planning team to try and prevent the spread of the H1N1 virus.
Director of Education with the Kenora Catholic District School Board, Phylis Aikre says they are doing their best to be prepared.
Aikre says they are no considering any school closures this year due to thethreat of the Swine Flu.
She adds that they have been asked to contact the Health Unit if more than10 percent of a school's population comes down with the flu.
The Northwestern Health Unit has set up a pandemic planning team to try and prevent the spread of the H1N1 virus.
Director of Education with the Kenora Catholic District School Board, Phylis Aikre says they are doing their best to be prepared.
Aikre says they are no considering any school closures this year due to thethreat of the Swine Flu.
She adds that they have been asked to contact the Health Unit if more than10 percent of a school's population comes down with the flu.
EQAO Results KPDSB
Mixed results for local schools in the most recent Education, Quality and Accountability reading, writing and math tests.
Almost every elementary school in the Kenora area saw its math test scores improve, with the public andseparate school boards seeing their results exceed the provincial standard.
Larry Hope is the director of education with the public school board and says for the most part they are pleased with the progress they've seen.
The results show an increase of six percent in grade three math results compared to last year in the public school system.
Almost every elementary school in the Kenora area saw its math test scores improve, with the public andseparate school boards seeing their results exceed the provincial standard.
Larry Hope is the director of education with the public school board and says for the most part they are pleased with the progress they've seen.
The results show an increase of six percent in grade three math results compared to last year in the public school system.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Union Gas Rates
Union Gas customers in northwestern Ontario will be getting a break on their bills in October.
Company spokesperson Andrea Stass says the Ontario Energy Board is allowing Union Gas to lower rates for the fourth time this year.
Stass attributes the decrease in rate to increased supplies of natural gas.
Company spokesperson Andrea Stass says the Ontario Energy Board is allowing Union Gas to lower rates for the fourth time this year.
Stass attributes the decrease in rate to increased supplies of natural gas.
Rickford on Election
Kenora MP Greg Rickford feels Canada will be spared another election.
A confidence vote will be introduced in Parliment on Friday, with the Bloc throwing their support behind the Conservatives.
Rickford is fairly sure the NDP will throw in their support as well.
The Liberals are the only party determined to vote against the Government on Friday.
A confidence vote will be introduced in Parliment on Friday, with the Bloc throwing their support behind the Conservatives.
Rickford is fairly sure the NDP will throw in their support as well.
The Liberals are the only party determined to vote against the Government on Friday.
Recreation Centre After School Program
After school programs in the City of Kenora have been given a boost from the provincial government.
The Ministry of Health Promotion has announced it will be giving the recreation department 58 thousand dollars to run the programs this year.
Recreation manager, Colleen Neil says they will be offering after schoolactivities at four schools.
Neil says Kenora is one of the few communities in the region to receive the funding.
After school programs are currently offered at Valleyview, King George, Pope John Paul and Evergreen.
The Ministry of Health Promotion has announced it will be giving the recreation department 58 thousand dollars to run the programs this year.
Recreation manager, Colleen Neil says they will be offering after schoolactivities at four schools.
Neil says Kenora is one of the few communities in the region to receive the funding.
After school programs are currently offered at Valleyview, King George, Pope John Paul and Evergreen.
Catholic School Board Enrollment
Catholic schools in Kenora and Red Lake are now all under the direction of one school Board.
The Kenora Cathlic District School Board merged with the St. Joseph's Boardin Red Lake over the summer.
Phylis Aikre is the director of Education and says they still aren't sure whatthe economic impact is going to be on the board.
The new board has 13 hundred and 79 students enrolled in Kenora Schools this year, plus 114 in Red Lake.
The Kenora Cathlic District School Board merged with the St. Joseph's Boardin Red Lake over the summer.
Phylis Aikre is the director of Education and says they still aren't sure whatthe economic impact is going to be on the board.
The new board has 13 hundred and 79 students enrolled in Kenora Schools this year, plus 114 in Red Lake.
Fort Frances Portal
Fort Frances is looking to take part in an Internet-based projectthat town officials hope will attract more residents.
Twenty-six municipalities in northwestern Ontario have alreadypartnered for the Northwestern Ontario Immigration Portal Project.
Fort Frances development officer Geoff Gillon says the site will have all the information pertaining to immigration to northwest Ontario.
Gillon says the town must now determine what type of immigrant it's looking for.
Twenty-six municipalities in northwestern Ontario have alreadypartnered for the Northwestern Ontario Immigration Portal Project.
Fort Frances development officer Geoff Gillon says the site will have all the information pertaining to immigration to northwest Ontario.
Gillon says the town must now determine what type of immigrant it's looking for.
Wawa Fatal
One person is dead following a crash near Wawa.
Two vehicles collided on Highway 17 yesterday about 45 kilometres north of the community.
O-P-P say the person killed was from outside Ontario.
Three other people were taken to hospital in Wawa.
The highway was closed to traffic until mid-afternoon.
Two vehicles collided on Highway 17 yesterday about 45 kilometres north of the community.
O-P-P say the person killed was from outside Ontario.
Three other people were taken to hospital in Wawa.
The highway was closed to traffic until mid-afternoon.
Greyhound Saga
Greyhound is backing off its threat to stop serving Manitoba and northern Ontario -- at least for now.
Two weeks ago, the bus company said it would drop routes in those areas by October 2nd if it didn't get 15 million dollars a year in government subsidies.
Since then Greyhound says it has had positive talks with Manitoba government officials on a short-term solution to the company's financial woes.
Greyhound says it also hopes to meet with Ontario government officials in the coming days.
But if no subsidy deal is reached, Greyhound warns that it will proceed with plans to drop service in northwestern Ontario on December 2nd.
Two weeks ago, the bus company said it would drop routes in those areas by October 2nd if it didn't get 15 million dollars a year in government subsidies.
Since then Greyhound says it has had positive talks with Manitoba government officials on a short-term solution to the company's financial woes.
Greyhound says it also hopes to meet with Ontario government officials in the coming days.
But if no subsidy deal is reached, Greyhound warns that it will proceed with plans to drop service in northwestern Ontario on December 2nd.
Sign By Law
The City of Kenora wants to make changes to its sign by-law.
Councillors and City Employees discussed the current laws at Wednesday's Property and Planning meeting.
City Planner Jeff Port says several businesses are concerned with the current laws involving awnings.
Port says the City needs to look at what type of advertising they want in the harbourfront area.
Councillors and City Employees discussed the current laws at Wednesday's Property and Planning meeting.
City Planner Jeff Port says several businesses are concerned with the current laws involving awnings.
Port says the City needs to look at what type of advertising they want in the harbourfront area.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Council split on free gym passes
Kenora City Council remains split over the issue of whether to give medical students workingin the community free access to the gym at the Kenora Rec. Center.
Councillor Rory McMillan raised the issue once again this week, trying to gain support for the free passes.
However, Mayor Len Compton, and Councillors Chris Van Wallenghem, and Dave McCann votesd against providing the freebies.
Compton says he's been complaining about the deficit at the Rec. Center for months now, and doesn't feel it would be appropriate to ask the facility to foot the bill for free gym access.
It has been suggested that the city provide a couple of free passes in packages handed out to medical school students when they arrive in the city.
Councillor Rory McMillan raised the issue once again this week, trying to gain support for the free passes.
However, Mayor Len Compton, and Councillors Chris Van Wallenghem, and Dave McCann votesd against providing the freebies.
Compton says he's been complaining about the deficit at the Rec. Center for months now, and doesn't feel it would be appropriate to ask the facility to foot the bill for free gym access.
It has been suggested that the city provide a couple of free passes in packages handed out to medical school students when they arrive in the city.
OPP Recruitment
The Ontario Provincial Police are holding an information session on the hiring process for new officers.
Two sessions will be held on Thursday, September 17th at the local detachment on
Highway 17-A.
O.P.P. Constable Dave Cain says there are a couple of prerequisites that need to be met before applying.
The first session will be held at 3 and the second at 7 at the OPP detachment.
Two sessions will be held on Thursday, September 17th at the local detachment on
Highway 17-A.
O.P.P. Constable Dave Cain says there are a couple of prerequisites that need to be met before applying.
The first session will be held at 3 and the second at 7 at the OPP detachment.
Jones Road Landfill back in use?
It looks as if the City of Kenora is ready to start using the Jones Road Landfill site for municipal garbage.
Council received a report outlining the increasing costs of sending garbage to the Brady Road Landfill in Winnipeg.
Operations Manager Rick Perchuck says the local landfill site is currrently used only for construction and demolition waste.
Perchuck says the cost of sending garbage to Winnipeg is will almost double this year and suggeststhe city could save about 200 thousand dollars a year by using the Jones Road site.
Council received a report outlining the increasing costs of sending garbage to the Brady Road Landfill in Winnipeg.
Operations Manager Rick Perchuck says the local landfill site is currrently used only for construction and demolition waste.
Perchuck says the cost of sending garbage to Winnipeg is will almost double this year and suggeststhe city could save about 200 thousand dollars a year by using the Jones Road site.
Hampton at Queen's Park
The harmonized sales tax and the on-going spending scandal at OLG and E-Health Ontario dominated disuccsions on the opening two days at Queen's Park.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton also raised the issue of bus service in Northwestern Ontario, stating the Liberals must take immediate action.
Hampton says there are currently 2-Government owned bus lines in Northeastern Ontario and the Toronto area, so the McGuinty Liberal should strongly consider bus service in our area.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton also raised the issue of bus service in Northwestern Ontario, stating the Liberals must take immediate action.
Hampton says there are currently 2-Government owned bus lines in Northeastern Ontario and the Toronto area, so the McGuinty Liberal should strongly consider bus service in our area.
Opposition to Via Cuts
First it was Greyhound, now its looks as if Via Rail is looking to reduce service in northern Ontario.
Thunder Bay Councillor Iain Angus is asking municipalities across the region to support a resolution opposing any cuts in rail service.
Angus says Via has been told to cut its budget by five percent, which could result in the loss of at least one cross-country train a week.
Via currently operates its passenger trains on the CN mainline, which has stops in Redditt, Sioux Lookout and Armstrong in northwestern Ontario.
Thunder Bay Councillor Iain Angus is asking municipalities across the region to support a resolution opposing any cuts in rail service.
Angus says Via has been told to cut its budget by five percent, which could result in the loss of at least one cross-country train a week.
Via currently operates its passenger trains on the CN mainline, which has stops in Redditt, Sioux Lookout and Armstrong in northwestern Ontario.
Union Gas Rates Decrease 11 Percent
Local residents can expect to pay less for natural gas this fall.
Union Gas has confirmed that rates in northwestern Ontario will be going down by 11 percent starting October 1st.
Last month, the utility confirmed that natural gas prices would be decreasing, but was waiting for the Ontario Energy Board to approve the new rates.
Union Gas says the price of natural gas is now at its lowest level in ten years and has gone down 45 percent since January of 2009.
Union Gas has confirmed that rates in northwestern Ontario will be going down by 11 percent starting October 1st.
Last month, the utility confirmed that natural gas prices would be decreasing, but was waiting for the Ontario Energy Board to approve the new rates.
Union Gas says the price of natural gas is now at its lowest level in ten years and has gone down 45 percent since January of 2009.
Fire Rangers Return Home
Most of the fire ranger crews from Ontario battling blazes out west in British Columbia are expected to be home by the end of the day.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says 99 fire fighters were flown back yesterday and the remaining 59 are due to return sometime today.
Ontario has had fire ranger crews out in B.C. for nine weeks, battling wildfires in that province.
Things remain quiet on the home front in terms of forest fire activity, with just one new blaze reported in the Sioux Lookout District.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says 99 fire fighters were flown back yesterday and the remaining 59 are due to return sometime today.
Ontario has had fire ranger crews out in B.C. for nine weeks, battling wildfires in that province.
Things remain quiet on the home front in terms of forest fire activity, with just one new blaze reported in the Sioux Lookout District.
Pikangikum Training Center
Aboriginal workers in Northwestern Ontario will soon be able to train for jobs in forestry, tourism and mining at a new educational facility in Pikangikum.
The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund is providing over 600 thousand dollars towards the project.
The facility will have three classrooms, and a residence for instructors.
Five people will be employed at the facility.
The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund is providing over 600 thousand dollars towards the project.
The facility will have three classrooms, and a residence for instructors.
Five people will be employed at the facility.
Catholic School Board Enrolment
Not a big change in the student population at the Kenora Catholic DistrictSchool Board this year.
Enrolment in the Kenora schools decreased by just one student, to 1,379 compared to 1,380 last year.
Director of Education, Phylis Aikre says the good news is that their funding should remain stable from the Ministry of Education, as a result.
The only big change for the separate school board is the addition of St. John's Catholic School in
Red Lake.
The merger was announced by the provincial government this past spring and adds another
114 students to the separate school system.
Enrolment in the Kenora schools decreased by just one student, to 1,379 compared to 1,380 last year.
Director of Education, Phylis Aikre says the good news is that their funding should remain stable from the Ministry of Education, as a result.
The only big change for the separate school board is the addition of St. John's Catholic School in
Red Lake.
The merger was announced by the provincial government this past spring and adds another
114 students to the separate school system.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Downtown Revitalization
The second phase of the downtown revitalization project has begun in the City of Kenora.
Titan Contractors is removing the bridge beside Scotia bank.
The construction company is is preparing the site for further work in the area.
On Monday, crews will begin to dig on First Street South between Main Street and Bernier.
Pedestrian access will be closed in that area.
Construction is expected to wrap up by November 30th.
CBS Clinic Day One Results
Some 152-donors gave the gift of life yesterday at the Canadian Blood Donor Clinic at St. Thomas Aquinas High School.
The 118-units of blood collected will help some 354-patients.
Spokesperson Harvey Heather says to make an appointment call 1-888-2-donate.
Today's blood donor clinic runs from 9:30 until 12:30.
The 118-units of blood collected will help some 354-patients.
Spokesperson Harvey Heather says to make an appointment call 1-888-2-donate.
Today's blood donor clinic runs from 9:30 until 12:30.
Boating Deadline
If you want to enjoy the warm weather out on the lake, you will need a Pleasure Craft Operator Card starting today.
Boaters can complete the online exam at boatsmartexam.com.
Cameron Taylor is the president of the company and says taking the exam is cheaper than thefine for not having a licence.
You can take the test at any time, however starting today you will need the new boating license.
Failing to have an operators card will cost you 250-dollars.
Officials say 8-million Canadian boaters still need to be certified.
Boaters can complete the online exam at boatsmartexam.com.
Cameron Taylor is the president of the company and says taking the exam is cheaper than thefine for not having a licence.
You can take the test at any time, however starting today you will need the new boating license.
Failing to have an operators card will cost you 250-dollars.
Officials say 8-million Canadian boaters still need to be certified.
Rafferty on Fall Session of Parliment
The fall session of the House of Commons got under way yesterday but just how long Parliament will sit is anyone's guess.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River M-P John Rafferty says he want to see parliament make it through the session as long as it can.
Rafferty says his party is also reviewing a proposal for E-I reform which on the surface has some benefit for many unemployed workers.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River M-P John Rafferty says he want to see parliament make it through the session as long as it can.
Rafferty says his party is also reviewing a proposal for E-I reform which on the surface has some benefit for many unemployed workers.
Council Position
The manager of the CP Rail station in Kenora could have a new job next week.
Jim Parson was one of eight people who submitted applications to fill avacancy on council created by the resignation of Andrew Poirier earlier this summer.
Each councillor was asked to vote secretly for the candidate of theirchoice, and Parson was the overall winner.
If he agrees to sit on council, he will be sworn in at the end of next Monday's open meeting.
Initially, nine people submitted applications, but one person with drew due to a conflict of interest.
Jim Parson was one of eight people who submitted applications to fill avacancy on council created by the resignation of Andrew Poirier earlier this summer.
Each councillor was asked to vote secretly for the candidate of theirchoice, and Parson was the overall winner.
If he agrees to sit on council, he will be sworn in at the end of next Monday's open meeting.
Initially, nine people submitted applications, but one person with drew due to a conflict of interest.
Abitibi Bowater Cuts
About 400 workers who supply logs and chips to AbitibiBowater's Thunder Bay pulp, newsprint and lumber operations have agreed to a pay cut.
The workers hope the move will help keep their employer in business.
A new three-year contract, to take effect November 1st, will shave hourly wages by a-dollar-50 and reduce overtime and benefits.
Workers currently earn around 27 dollars per hour.
The workers hope the move will help keep their employer in business.
A new three-year contract, to take effect November 1st, will shave hourly wages by a-dollar-50 and reduce overtime and benefits.
Workers currently earn around 27 dollars per hour.
Firehall Tender
Kenora City Council is leaning towards approving a 5.9 million dollar tender to build a new firehall on Barsky's Hill, despite the inflated cost of the project.
Council spent a lot of time debating whether it is willing fund the project without federal or provincial assistance.
David Nelson is the Architect on the project and says they have already scaled back the original cost of the project.
The lowest initial bid came in at 6.3 million dollars, which is about 1.3 million higher than initially budgeted.
Council will vote on whether to approve the tender on Monday night.
Council spent a lot of time debating whether it is willing fund the project without federal or provincial assistance.
David Nelson is the Architect on the project and says they have already scaled back the original cost of the project.
The lowest initial bid came in at 6.3 million dollars, which is about 1.3 million higher than initially budgeted.
Council will vote on whether to approve the tender on Monday night.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Broncos Footbal
A good start to the regular season for Beaver Brae's football team.
The Broncos blanked the Fort Frances Muskies 44-0 Friday afternoon at Pete Fair Memorial Field.
Mark Gramenz was Beaver Brae's player of the game with 165 yards receiving and a touchdown.
He says the team made big strides in the past week to get ready for the regular season.
Billy Kitt had a pair of touchdowns for the Broncos and over 100 yards rushing.
Scott Morgan, and Michael Menzies also scored majors for Beaver Brae.
The Broncos next game is on Friday at home against the River East Kodiaksfrom Winnipeg.
The Broncos blanked the Fort Frances Muskies 44-0 Friday afternoon at Pete Fair Memorial Field.
Mark Gramenz was Beaver Brae's player of the game with 165 yards receiving and a touchdown.
He says the team made big strides in the past week to get ready for the regular season.
Billy Kitt had a pair of touchdowns for the Broncos and over 100 yards rushing.
Scott Morgan, and Michael Menzies also scored majors for Beaver Brae.
The Broncos next game is on Friday at home against the River East Kodiaksfrom Winnipeg.
Blood Donor Clinic
Canadian Blood Services needs your help.
A two day blood donor clinic will be held today and tomorrow at St. Thomas Aquinas High School.
Spokesperson Harvey Heather says their goal for the fall clinic is 300 donors.
The clinic runs from 4:30 until 9 today and 9 until noon tomorrow.
Anyone wanting to make an appointment to donate can call 1-888-2-DONATE.
A two day blood donor clinic will be held today and tomorrow at St. Thomas Aquinas High School.
Spokesperson Harvey Heather says their goal for the fall clinic is 300 donors.
The clinic runs from 4:30 until 9 today and 9 until noon tomorrow.
Anyone wanting to make an appointment to donate can call 1-888-2-DONATE.
Kenora Aging Forum
A forum on how to make local communities more age-friendly is being heldin Kenora next week.
Jennifer Rasmussen is helping organize the one day session and says theyare working with the province on the initiative.
Rasmussen says there is still space available for last minute registrations.
The forum will take place at the Minis Hall at the Super 8 Motel on Tuesday, September 15th.
Jennifer Rasmussen is helping organize the one day session and says theyare working with the province on the initiative.
Rasmussen says there is still space available for last minute registrations.
The forum will take place at the Minis Hall at the Super 8 Motel on Tuesday, September 15th.
Experimental Lakes Funding
The Experimental Lakes Area east of Kenora is getting 850 thousand dollars in funding from the federal government to build a new laboratory.
The money will be used to erect as new fish research facility.
Dr. Mike Paterson works out at the E.L.A. and says their current lab is about 40 years old and in desperate need of replacement.
The funding will be spread out over the next two years and is part of the federal governments 250 million dollar initiative to upgrade laboratory facilities across Canada.
The money will be used to erect as new fish research facility.
Dr. Mike Paterson works out at the E.L.A. and says their current lab is about 40 years old and in desperate need of replacement.
The funding will be spread out over the next two years and is part of the federal governments 250 million dollar initiative to upgrade laboratory facilities across Canada.
Whiteshell Canoer
The RCMP in eastern Manitoba have located the body of a canoer who had been missing in Whiteshell Provincial Park since last weekend.
Police and a civilian boater located the body of the man in Big Whiteshell Lake,near where his canoe was found capsized last Sunday morning.
A post-mortem was conducted Thursday at St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg and it determined the man died as a result of drowning.
Foul play has been ruled out.
The name of the deceased has not yet been released.
Police and a civilian boater located the body of the man in Big Whiteshell Lake,near where his canoe was found capsized last Sunday morning.
A post-mortem was conducted Thursday at St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg and it determined the man died as a result of drowning.
Foul play has been ruled out.
The name of the deceased has not yet been released.
Fire hall tenders
The fate of a new fire hall in the City of Kenora is somewhat up in the air.
Council had hoped to award a tender for the project by the end of last month.
But councillor Charito Drinkwalter says the bids came in higherthan expected.
She adds that they are going back to the drawing board to try andreduce the cost of the project and bring it more in line with theiroriginal budget, which is about 4.5 to five million dollars.
Council had hoped to award a tender for the project by the end of last month.
But councillor Charito Drinkwalter says the bids came in higherthan expected.
She adds that they are going back to the drawing board to try andreduce the cost of the project and bring it more in line with theiroriginal budget, which is about 4.5 to five million dollars.
Forest Fires Weekend
Despite fairly wet weather over the past few days, the Kenora district has been the busiest in terms of forest fires this week.
The Ministry of Natural Resouces says there have been three fires reported over the past couple of days.
The most recent was reported on Friday.
A pine tree was hit by lightning and ignited.
Local residents were able to put it out before it spread into thesurrounding bush.
The other two fires are located on islands on Lake of the Woodsand are being allowed to burn for ecological reasons.
The Ministry of Natural Resouces says there have been three fires reported over the past couple of days.
The most recent was reported on Friday.
A pine tree was hit by lightning and ignited.
Local residents were able to put it out before it spread into thesurrounding bush.
The other two fires are located on islands on Lake of the Woodsand are being allowed to burn for ecological reasons.
NWHU Funding
The Northwestern Health Unit will be tackling illicit drug use thanks tofunding from the federal government.
The Health Unit has received 301 thousand dollars from the NationalAnti-Drug Strategy.
Dr. Jim Arthurs is the chief medical officer of health and says healthunit employees will work with local youth to come up with strategiesfor combatting drug abuse.
Dr. Arthurs says the Youth Action on Drugs program will be rolledout in communities across the Kenora and Rainy River Districts,including first nations.
The Health Unit has received 301 thousand dollars from the NationalAnti-Drug Strategy.
Dr. Jim Arthurs is the chief medical officer of health and says healthunit employees will work with local youth to come up with strategiesfor combatting drug abuse.
Dr. Arthurs says the Youth Action on Drugs program will be rolledout in communities across the Kenora and Rainy River Districts,including first nations.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Terry Fox Run
The 29th Annual Terry Fox Run goes Sunday in Communities across the Region.
Registration will be held at Valleyview school from 9 until noon.
Participants can walk, run, or skate five or ten kilometers.
Registration will be held at Valleyview school from 9 until noon.
Participants can walk, run, or skate five or ten kilometers.
Greyhound Petition
Dryden's Roger Valley says thousands of people rely on Greyhound Bus service in Northwestern Ontario and stresses we need to rally to save the local run.
Valley is urging residents to sign a petition calling on the Feds to intervene and work on a solution to maintain what he calls an essential service.
You can also pick up a copy by e-mailing rvalley@drytel.net
Valley is urging residents to sign a petition calling on the Feds to intervene and work on a solution to maintain what he calls an essential service.
You can also pick up a copy by e-mailing rvalley@drytel.net
Board Improvement Plan
The Keewatin Patricia District School board plans to improve students literacy, math and career options over the next school year.
The public board reviewed its draft improvement plan at its September meeting.
Assistant to the Director of Education, Caryl Hron says they want to bring students math marks up.
Younger kids in elementary school will also look at what careers they may want to pursue.
The public board reviewed its draft improvement plan at its September meeting.
Assistant to the Director of Education, Caryl Hron says they want to bring students math marks up.
Younger kids in elementary school will also look at what careers they may want to pursue.
No More Boil Water
Good news for residents of Tunnel Island, Norman and Keewatin.
The Northwestern Health Unit has lifted its boil water advisory, which has been in place since last Saturday evening.
The Health Unit says tests of the water supply conducted this week show no evidence of bacteria.
The boil water advisory was put in place as a precaution, while work is being carried out on the submarine water line between downtown Kenora and Norman.
The Health Unit has also rescinded its closure of Keewatin Beach.
It says e-coli levels have now returned to acceptible levels.
The Northwestern Health Unit has lifted its boil water advisory, which has been in place since last Saturday evening.
The Health Unit says tests of the water supply conducted this week show no evidence of bacteria.
The boil water advisory was put in place as a precaution, while work is being carried out on the submarine water line between downtown Kenora and Norman.
The Health Unit has also rescinded its closure of Keewatin Beach.
It says e-coli levels have now returned to acceptible levels.
Emergency Rooms Report LHIN
A consultant had drafted a report on how to improve wait times and staffing issues at emergency rooms across northwestern Ontario.
The board of the Local Health Integration Network received the report this week.
Laura Kokochinski is a spokesperson for the LHIN's and says KPMG was hired to provide a number of recommendations to improveemergency service.
A total of 25 recommendations were presented in the final report.
Increased cooperation between hospitals in the region wasthe main suggestion to improve
operations in localemergency rooms.
The board of the Local Health Integration Network received the report this week.
Laura Kokochinski is a spokesperson for the LHIN's and says KPMG was hired to provide a number of recommendations to improveemergency service.
A total of 25 recommendations were presented in the final report.
Increased cooperation between hospitals in the region wasthe main suggestion to improve
operations in localemergency rooms.
Manitoba Sewage Leak
Cottage owners in Manitoba's Whiteshell claim a sewage lagoon has overflowed onto a popular beach and into the Winnipeg River, but the province argues it was just a trickle.
Cottagers at Dorothy Lake say the local lagoon started oveflowing at the end of July and leached under a highway before ending up in the water.
But Manitoba Conservation say there's no way the sewage reached all the way to the lake.
Department staff say there was a small overflow in July but there was nowhere near enough effluent to reach the lake or cause any water quality problems.
Manitoba Conservation has since stopped allowing sewage trucks to empty their waste in the lagoon, closed some campground showers and is checking the lagoon's levels almost daily.
Cottagers at Dorothy Lake say the local lagoon started oveflowing at the end of July and leached under a highway before ending up in the water.
But Manitoba Conservation say there's no way the sewage reached all the way to the lake.
Department staff say there was a small overflow in July but there was nowhere near enough effluent to reach the lake or cause any water quality problems.
Manitoba Conservation has since stopped allowing sewage trucks to empty their waste in the lagoon, closed some campground showers and is checking the lagoon's levels almost daily.
Manitoba Sewage Leak
Cottage owners in Manitoba's Whiteshell claim a sewage lagoon has overflowed onto a popular beach and into the Winnipeg River, but the province argues it was just a trickle.
Cottagers at Dorothy Lake say the local lagoon started oveflowing at the end of July and leached under a highway before ending up in the water.
But Manitoba Conservation say there's no way the sewage reached all the way to the lake.
Department staff say there was a small overflow in July but there was nowhere near enough effluent to reach the lake or cause any water quality problems.
Manitoba Conservation has since stopped allowing sewage trucks to empty their waste in the lagoon, closed some campground showers and is checking the lagoon's levels almost daily.
Cottagers at Dorothy Lake say the local lagoon started oveflowing at the end of July and leached under a highway before ending up in the water.
But Manitoba Conservation say there's no way the sewage reached all the way to the lake.
Department staff say there was a small overflow in July but there was nowhere near enough effluent to reach the lake or cause any water quality problems.
Manitoba Conservation has since stopped allowing sewage trucks to empty their waste in the lagoon, closed some campground showers and is checking the lagoon's levels almost daily.
Thunder Bay Brick Beating
Friends and family of a gay man whose face was shattered in anattack in Thunder Bay are using Facebook and community spirit tospeak out.
John Raynard was with some friends last Friday night whena group of men attacked them.
The 30-year-old man managed to help his friends escape into a cabbut was then beaten, allegedly with a brick.
Juan Anderson, who has known Raynard for 15 years, set up aFacebook page called ``Unified Community around Jake Raynard.''
A rally is planned for a local park today.
John Raynard was with some friends last Friday night whena group of men attacked them.
The 30-year-old man managed to help his friends escape into a cabbut was then beaten, allegedly with a brick.
Juan Anderson, who has known Raynard for 15 years, set up aFacebook page called ``Unified Community around Jake Raynard.''
A rally is planned for a local park today.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Thunder Bay Hospital Sprinkler
Hospital officials in Thunder Bay suspect an agitated patient was responsible for setting off a sprinkler.
A hospital spokesman says damage at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre will be in the tens of thousands of dollars.
A Thunder Bay fire spokesman says flooding was restricted to the emergency department and neonatal care unit.
Officials say no one saw the sprinkler head removed, but say there was only one patient in the room at the time.
A hospital spokesman says damage at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre will be in the tens of thousands of dollars.
A Thunder Bay fire spokesman says flooding was restricted to the emergency department and neonatal care unit.
Officials say no one saw the sprinkler head removed, but say there was only one patient in the room at the time.
Drive Test impacts Young Drivers
There is an increasing traffic jam of would-be drivers wanting to take their road tests.
550 Drive Test employees have been on strike since August 23rd.
Maria Bagdonis is the local operator of Young Drivers of Canada and says for the sake of her students, she hopes the strike doesn't last much longer.
Bagdonis says she has at least 15 students in Kenora waiting to take their drivers test.
She adds that there are also a number of other people waiting to take their G-2 drivers exam.
550 Drive Test employees have been on strike since August 23rd.
Maria Bagdonis is the local operator of Young Drivers of Canada and says for the sake of her students, she hopes the strike doesn't last much longer.
Bagdonis says she has at least 15 students in Kenora waiting to take their drivers test.
She adds that there are also a number of other people waiting to take their G-2 drivers exam.
Long Weekend Fires
Its been a while since there have been any forest fires in the Kenora District,but there were three small blazes reported over the Labor Day Long Weekend.
All three were located on Lake of the Woods, and two are being allowed to continue to burn.
The other was extinguished by volunteer fire fighters in the Town of Sioux Narrows.
Under the Lake of the Woods Fire Response Plan, any fires that don't pose a hazard to property, will be monitored and allowed to burn for ecological reasons.
All three were located on Lake of the Woods, and two are being allowed to continue to burn.
The other was extinguished by volunteer fire fighters in the Town of Sioux Narrows.
Under the Lake of the Woods Fire Response Plan, any fires that don't pose a hazard to property, will be monitored and allowed to burn for ecological reasons.
Red Cross 9/11
The Canadian Red Cross is helping remember the terrorist attacks of 9/11.
The Kenora Chapter is bringing in a guest speaker to talk about her experiences volunteering in New York City after the twin towers fell.
President Will Scutt says Robin Chant will be speaking at their remembrance event tonight.
The Kenora Chapter of the Red Cross was just recently formed, and Scutt notes they're always looking for people interested in volunteering.
The Kenora Chapter is bringing in a guest speaker to talk about her experiences volunteering in New York City after the twin towers fell.
President Will Scutt says Robin Chant will be speaking at their remembrance event tonight.
The Kenora Chapter of the Red Cross was just recently formed, and Scutt notes they're always looking for people interested in volunteering.
College enrollment rates
Confederation College in Kenora is full to bursting at the seams.
Tuesday was the first day of classes at campuses right across the region.
Rick Moore is director of the local campus and says they have seen a big increase inenrolment this year.
Moore says Con College satellite campuses in Dryden, Fort Frances and Sioux Lookout have also seen similar increases in enrolment this year.
Tuesday was the first day of classes at campuses right across the region.
Rick Moore is director of the local campus and says they have seen a big increase inenrolment this year.
Moore says Con College satellite campuses in Dryden, Fort Frances and Sioux Lookout have also seen similar increases in enrolment this year.
EQAO Results KPDSB
The Keewatin Patricia District School Board is concerned with its recent provincial literacy test results.
72 percent of students who wrote the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test were succesful.
Assistant to the Director of Education, Caryl Hron says for this years tests they plan to provide extra help for applied english students.
Applied english students with the public board were only 48 percent succesful at the test.
72 percent of students who wrote the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test were succesful.
Assistant to the Director of Education, Caryl Hron says for this years tests they plan to provide extra help for applied english students.
Applied english students with the public board were only 48 percent succesful at the test.
Highway Landing
Authorities are investigating after a small plane was forced to make an emergency landing on the TransCanada Highway east of Thunder Bay.
The OPP say the late-model Piper landed on the highway yesterday after pilot Sebastien Gombardie became concerned about low fuel levels.
The 35 year old was flying from Montreal to British Columbia.Witness Brenda Fortier says the pilot brought the plane in for a smooth landing.
She says traffic did have to pull over to let him through and one car had to swerve.
But then he taxied into the parking lot of an old gas station.
The OPP say the late-model Piper landed on the highway yesterday after pilot Sebastien Gombardie became concerned about low fuel levels.
The 35 year old was flying from Montreal to British Columbia.Witness Brenda Fortier says the pilot brought the plane in for a smooth landing.
She says traffic did have to pull over to let him through and one car had to swerve.
But then he taxied into the parking lot of an old gas station.
OFIA on Forestry Ministry
A forest industry group is being critical of the new amalgamated Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry.
The Ontario Forest Industries Association calls the split of power between the new ministry and natural resources incomplete.
Scott Jackson is the OFIA'S Manager of Forest Policy and says the new split leaves Minister Gravelle without any tools in his tool box.
Jackson notes the Ministry of Forestry needs to be in control of the Crown Forest Sustainability Act.
The Ontario Forest Industries Association calls the split of power between the new ministry and natural resources incomplete.
Scott Jackson is the OFIA'S Manager of Forest Policy and says the new split leaves Minister Gravelle without any tools in his tool box.
Jackson notes the Ministry of Forestry needs to be in control of the Crown Forest Sustainability Act.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Aggravated Assault
The OPP have arrested a 33 year old man in connection to a disturbance over the weekend at a Railway Street residence.
Police were called out Saturday night to investigate an alleged assault.
Marshall Morrison from Big Island habeen charged with aggravated assault after one person was taken to Lake of the Woods District Hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in an altercation.
The OPP say they are continuing the investigation.
Police were called out Saturday night to investigate an alleged assault.
Marshall Morrison from Big Island habeen charged with aggravated assault after one person was taken to Lake of the Woods District Hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in an altercation.
The OPP say they are continuing the investigation.
Missing Man Manitoba
The RCMP in Manitoba are searching for a man believed to be missing in Whiteshell Provincial Park.
Early Sunday morning, police say they received reports of someone who seemed to be struggling in the water near the campground in Big Whiteshell Lake.
Later in the morning, a canoe was found floating in the lake with no-one around.
The canoe had been submerged with a few personal effects around.
The Winnipeg Police Underwater Search and Recovery Unit has been brought in to help search the lake for the missing person.
Police say a 20 year old Winnipeg man has been reported missing by his family, but his name is not being released at this time.
Early Sunday morning, police say they received reports of someone who seemed to be struggling in the water near the campground in Big Whiteshell Lake.
Later in the morning, a canoe was found floating in the lake with no-one around.
The canoe had been submerged with a few personal effects around.
The Winnipeg Police Underwater Search and Recovery Unit has been brought in to help search the lake for the missing person.
Police say a 20 year old Winnipeg man has been reported missing by his family, but his name is not being released at this time.
OPP Long Weekend Results
A busy weekend for the OPP on local roads and highways.
Officers were out in force over the Labor Day Long weekend cracking down on agressive drivers.
A total of 165 speeding tickets were issued, along with one charge of following too close, three for disobeying traffic signs, and two seat belt infractions.
The OPP also pulled over one person for impaired driving.
There were eight minor motor vehicle collisions investigated as well.
Officers were out in force over the Labor Day Long weekend cracking down on agressive drivers.
A total of 165 speeding tickets were issued, along with one charge of following too close, three for disobeying traffic signs, and two seat belt infractions.
The OPP also pulled over one person for impaired driving.
There were eight minor motor vehicle collisions investigated as well.
Drunk Driving
A Manitoba man encountered a different type of hazard on Beauty Bay Golf Course in Kenora.
Police and Ambulance personnel were called to the course Sunday morning around 5 o'clock.
Someone was thrown from a golf cart and required medical attention.
OPP say the driver of the cart was impaired and he was taken into custody.
The 20-year-old from Woodridge was charged with impaired operation.
Police and Ambulance personnel were called to the course Sunday morning around 5 o'clock.
Someone was thrown from a golf cart and required medical attention.
OPP say the driver of the cart was impaired and he was taken into custody.
The 20-year-old from Woodridge was charged with impaired operation.
Hospital Annual Planning Submissions
The Lake of the Woods Hospital is starting to work on its annual planning submissions for 2010-2011 and 2011-2012.
The board must have the plans in the hands of the Northwest Local Health Integration Network by November 30th.
C.E.O. Marc Balcaen says its going to be difficult to balance their budget.
Balcaen notes they've already started talking to fellow hospitals, the LHIN and their staff.
The board must have the plans in the hands of the Northwest Local Health Integration Network by November 30th.
C.E.O. Marc Balcaen says its going to be difficult to balance their budget.
Balcaen notes they've already started talking to fellow hospitals, the LHIN and their staff.
NDP Cameron
The New Democrats say they would consider supporting the Harper government in certain circumstances.
The Liberals say they're ready to pull the plug on the minority Conservative government.
NDP candidate in the Kenora Riding, Tania Cameron says they have basic social issues they want the government to address.
A non-confidence motion could come as early as the first week of October.
The Liberals say they're ready to pull the plug on the minority Conservative government.
NDP candidate in the Kenora Riding, Tania Cameron says they have basic social issues they want the government to address.
A non-confidence motion could come as early as the first week of October.
Amalgamation Costs School Board
The Ministry of Education has provided a funding projection for the 3 schools that have been amalgamated with the local public school board.
The Keewatin Patricia District School Board should get almost 3 million dollars to offset the costs of running the additional facilities.
Superintendent of Finance Dean Carrie says they will be reviewing the financial records for those schools and establishing 2009-2010 operating budgets.
Carrie says the funding is sufficent; but notes the Ministry projection does not include any extra funding to offer new programs at the schools.
The Keewatin Patricia District School Board should get almost 3 million dollars to offset the costs of running the additional facilities.
Superintendent of Finance Dean Carrie says they will be reviewing the financial records for those schools and establishing 2009-2010 operating budgets.
Carrie says the funding is sufficent; but notes the Ministry projection does not include any extra funding to offer new programs at the schools.
Accomodation Review Schools Kenora
The Keewatin Patricia District School Board is reviewing the enrollment and accommodation needs at its five elementary schools in Kenora.
The first step in the lengthy process is to establish what community stakeholders should be involved.
Superintendent of Finance Dean Carrie says there will be a sizeable contingent of school board officials and staff on the committee.
The committee will decide if any of the schools should be closed; if new facilities need to be built and what the impacts will be on the local community.
The first step in the lengthy process is to establish what community stakeholders should be involved.
Superintendent of Finance Dean Carrie says there will be a sizeable contingent of school board officials and staff on the committee.
The committee will decide if any of the schools should be closed; if new facilities need to be built and what the impacts will be on the local community.
Drive Test Talks Resume
DriveTest and the United Steel Workers, which represents driving examiners across the province, are slated to resume negotiations this morning.
Jim Young, president of Local 9511, says it remains to be seen how long this rounds of talks will last.
Job security is the key issue at the table.
The strike affects all 55 full-time DriveTest locations and 38 part-time centres -- the only facilities that grant licences to novice drivers and renew licences for motorists over 80.
Jim Young, president of Local 9511, says it remains to be seen how long this rounds of talks will last.
Job security is the key issue at the table.
The strike affects all 55 full-time DriveTest locations and 38 part-time centres -- the only facilities that grant licences to novice drivers and renew licences for motorists over 80.
Bears
The Northwestern Ontario Sportsmen's Alliance says more cubs are being orphaned or killed now because of fatal nuisance bear encounters than before the cancellation of the spring bear hunt.
The group says that Ministry of Natural Resources statistics collected before and after the hunt's cancellation show the annualharvest of bears has been reduced by nearly a third.
Prior to the cancellation of the spring bear hunt, hunters killed an average of 68-hundred bears a year.
But during the next two five-year periods following the hunt's cancellation, hunters shot an average of 48-hundred and 56-hundred bears, respectively.
The ministry has blamed the upswing in bear-human encounters on a lack of summer food, and on people attracting bears into their yards with garbage, greasy barbecue grills and full bird feeders.
The group says that Ministry of Natural Resources statistics collected before and after the hunt's cancellation show the annualharvest of bears has been reduced by nearly a third.
Prior to the cancellation of the spring bear hunt, hunters killed an average of 68-hundred bears a year.
But during the next two five-year periods following the hunt's cancellation, hunters shot an average of 48-hundred and 56-hundred bears, respectively.
The ministry has blamed the upswing in bear-human encounters on a lack of summer food, and on people attracting bears into their yards with garbage, greasy barbecue grills and full bird feeders.
Speedy Trucker
A 45-year-old Sault Ste. Marie trucker truckeris facing a stunt-driving charge.
OPP say they clocked a transport truck at more than 50 kilometres an hour over the posted speed limit on Sunday near Schreiber.
Police say the westbound transport was going 142 in a 90-zone on Highway 17.
The truck's driver had his licence suspended for 7-days and his transport was impounded for 7-days.
OPP say they clocked a transport truck at more than 50 kilometres an hour over the posted speed limit on Sunday near Schreiber.
Police say the westbound transport was going 142 in a 90-zone on Highway 17.
The truck's driver had his licence suspended for 7-days and his transport was impounded for 7-days.
Northwestern Ontario Greyhound
Ontario's minister for the north says Greyhound's threat tocancel bus service in northwestern Ontario is ``a great concern.''
But Michael Gravelle is still hopeful a bailout won't be necessary to keep the buses on the roads.
Greyhound says unless the government coughs up 15 million dollars in subsidies, it'll close routes in northwestern Ontario and Manitoba this fall.
It has already suspended some routes but Transportation MinisterJim Bradley says other bus companies are picking up the slack.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Dryden in Kenora
A two hour round table discussion on poverty was held on Friday in Kenora.
Former Liberal Cabinet Minister Ken Dryden chaired the brainstorming session and asked those taking part to create a party platform on the issue.
Dryden says there are things the Federal Government could do immediatly to help those living in poverty.
Dryden notes the Federal Government also needs to make strides in income support, housing and education to help those living in poverty.
Gas Theft
A Quebec man couldn't high tail-it out of Northwestern Ontario after a gas and dash on the weekend.
Dryden OPP were contacted Saturday morning after someone failed to pay for gas at the Village Corner Esso in Vermilion Bay.
The vehicle was intercepted on Highway 17 with support from Kenora OPP.
OPP also determined with assistance from Dryden OPP that the 2-suspects in the vehicle were in possession of stolen food from Dryden IGA.
29-year-old Anthony Gilbert faces 2-counts of theft and speeding.
34-year-old Christian Audet faces 2-counts of theft and obstructing police.
Both are in custody.
Dryden OPP were contacted Saturday morning after someone failed to pay for gas at the Village Corner Esso in Vermilion Bay.
The vehicle was intercepted on Highway 17 with support from Kenora OPP.
OPP also determined with assistance from Dryden OPP that the 2-suspects in the vehicle were in possession of stolen food from Dryden IGA.
29-year-old Anthony Gilbert faces 2-counts of theft and speeding.
34-year-old Christian Audet faces 2-counts of theft and obstructing police.
Both are in custody.
Abitibi Creditors
U.S. and Canadian authorities have set a November 13 deadline for creditor claims against AbitibiBowater.
The Quebec Superior Court in Canada and the U-S Bankruptcy Court for the District of
Delaware also established procedural rules for filing the creditor claims.
Company C-E-O David Paterson says the claims process will low the company to assess the scope and nature of creditor claims and assist AbitibiBowater in formulating a restructuring plan.
The Quebec Superior Court in Canada and the U-S Bankruptcy Court for the District of
Delaware also established procedural rules for filing the creditor claims.
Company C-E-O David Paterson says the claims process will low the company to assess the scope and nature of creditor claims and assist AbitibiBowater in formulating a restructuring plan.
Dryden Olympics
The 2010 Olympics will have a taste of Dryden.
Detective Constable Janet Kaus and Sergeant Scott Silver have been invited to the Games in Vancouver.
The two will serve in the security detail.
Detective Constable Janet Kaus and Sergeant Scott Silver have been invited to the Games in Vancouver.
The two will serve in the security detail.
Boil Water Advisory
A boil water advisory is now in effect for residents of Keewatin and Norman.
The Northwestern Health Unit says the advisory went into effect as of 5:00 Friday night.
The Health Unit says the quality of the water cannot be guaranteed while work is beingcarried out on the submarine waterline between downtown Kenora and Norman.
Its suggested that water be boiled for at least one minute before its consumed.
The Northwestern Health Unit says the advisory went into effect as of 5:00 Friday night.
The Health Unit says the quality of the water cannot be guaranteed while work is beingcarried out on the submarine waterline between downtown Kenora and Norman.
Its suggested that water be boiled for at least one minute before its consumed.
OPG Atikokan
Ontario Power Generation will close 4 coal-burning power generating units next year.
The announcement impacts the Nanticoke station near Simcoe and the Lambton plant near Sarnia.
Spokesperson Bob Osbourne says this will have no local impact.
The Ontario Government's goal is to have all of its coal plants shut down by 2014.
The announcement impacts the Nanticoke station near Simcoe and the Lambton plant near Sarnia.
Spokesperson Bob Osbourne says this will have no local impact.
The Ontario Government's goal is to have all of its coal plants shut down by 2014.
NWHU Generation Y
Generatgion Y-those people who were born in the 1980's and 90's grew up on fast food, and in a culture of instant gratification.
That data is from the Northwestern Health Unit.
Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Jim Arthurs says the region's youth is much different from the previous generations.
Arthurs says Gen Y also faces credit card debit and over spending.
That data is from the Northwestern Health Unit.
Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Jim Arthurs says the region's youth is much different from the previous generations.
Arthurs says Gen Y also faces credit card debit and over spending.
Land Ambulance Base
There could be a break through in the search for a new land ambulance base in Kenora.
The Kenora District Services Board is evaluating several properties up for sale.
Chief Administrative Officer Sten Lif says unfortunatly they've had to turn down two other possible sites.
The current land ambulance base is located in the Lake of the Woods Hospital's old laundry facilities.
The Kenora District Services Board is evaluating several properties up for sale.
Chief Administrative Officer Sten Lif says unfortunatly they've had to turn down two other possible sites.
The current land ambulance base is located in the Lake of the Woods Hospital's old laundry facilities.
Friday, September 4, 2009
OPP Long Weekend
The OPP say they will be stepping up enforcement on both land and water this Labor Day Long Weekend.
The provincial police are launching Operation Maximum Effort starting early Friday morning.
Constable Dave Cain says Labor Day tends to be one of the busiest weekends of the year in the Kenora area.
The OPP say their goal is to reduce fatalities across Ontario thislong weekend and officers will be cracking down on aggressive drivers and boaters.
The provincial police are launching Operation Maximum Effort starting early Friday morning.
Constable Dave Cain says Labor Day tends to be one of the busiest weekends of the year in the Kenora area.
The OPP say their goal is to reduce fatalities across Ontario thislong weekend and officers will be cracking down on aggressive drivers and boaters.
Valley on Liberals Election
The Federal Liberal Candidate in the Kenora Riding is behind his leader.
Michael Ignatieff announced Tuesday that he will not prop up the minority Government.
Roger Valley says its time for Canada to move forward.
Valley says no funds have actually flowed to communities and stresses there's no sign that the recession is actually over.
Michael Ignatieff announced Tuesday that he will not prop up the minority Government.
Roger Valley says its time for Canada to move forward.
Valley says no funds have actually flowed to communities and stresses there's no sign that the recession is actually over.
Ken Dryden in Kenora Today
A former Liberal cabinet minister and hockey player will be visiting Kenora today.
Ken Dryden will be stopping to speak to party faithful this evening and is also holding a round
table discussion on poverty.
Dryden says he's looking at poverty and what it looks like in different communities across Canada.
Dryden will be speaking with community organizations about poverty today at the Fellowship Centre.
Ken Dryden will be stopping to speak to party faithful this evening and is also holding a round
table discussion on poverty.
Dryden says he's looking at poverty and what it looks like in different communities across Canada.
Dryden will be speaking with community organizations about poverty today at the Fellowship Centre.
Second Phase of Downtown Revitalization
The first phase of the downtown revitalization project is just wrapping up and the city is getting ready to embark on phase two.
The contract for the next phase of the project has been awarded.
Councillor Wendy Cuthbert says most of the work will be underground.
Titan Contractors had the lowet of three bids on the project at 464 thousand dollars.
KGS Group will also be paid 61 thousand dollars to carry out the administration and inspection of the project.
The contract for the next phase of the project has been awarded.
Councillor Wendy Cuthbert says most of the work will be underground.
Titan Contractors had the lowet of three bids on the project at 464 thousand dollars.
KGS Group will also be paid 61 thousand dollars to carry out the administration and inspection of the project.
Kenora Rainy River MPP on Greyhound Service
Former Ontario N-D-P Leader Howard Hamptonsays Greyhound Canada's threat to pull out of Manitoba and northwestern Ontario is a bargaining chip.
Hampton, who stillrepresents the riding of Kenora-Rainy River, says Grehound has been cutting service to dozens of small northwestern Ontario communities that have no train or airplane service.
Greyhound says it is giving 30 days' notice to cancelservice in Manitoba and 90 days' notice to halt service innorthwestern Ontario, which will end as of December 2nd.
Hampton, who stillrepresents the riding of Kenora-Rainy River, says Grehound has been cutting service to dozens of small northwestern Ontario communities that have no train or airplane service.
Greyhound says it is giving 30 days' notice to cancelservice in Manitoba and 90 days' notice to halt service innorthwestern Ontario, which will end as of December 2nd.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
CAA Worst Roads
CAA'S Worst Roads Campaign wrapped up their province wide tour in Kenora and Dryden last week.
The 7th annual campaign is used to to prod governments to invest more to repair roads, highways and bridges.
Spokesperson Korey Kennedy says Northwestern Ontario residents can help fix area roads and highways just by voting.
Votes will be accepted up until September 30th on www.worstroads.ca.
The 7th annual campaign is used to to prod governments to invest more to repair roads, highways and bridges.
Spokesperson Korey Kennedy says Northwestern Ontario residents can help fix area roads and highways just by voting.
Votes will be accepted up until September 30th on www.worstroads.ca.
Hospital Foundation Fundraisers
The Lake of the Woods Hospital Foundation is gearing up for another funraising year.
The foundations annual general meeting is being held this Thursday and will be used to highlight the group's previous sucesses and goals for this year.
Director Meagan Barr says this year they'll be fundraising for a PCR instrument for the labratory.
Barr notes the PCR equipment costs 50 thousand dollars and is just one of the many purchases the hospital has identified in its capital equipment wish list.
The foundations annual general meeting is being held this Thursday and will be used to highlight the group's previous sucesses and goals for this year.
Director Meagan Barr says this year they'll be fundraising for a PCR instrument for the labratory.
Barr notes the PCR equipment costs 50 thousand dollars and is just one of the many purchases the hospital has identified in its capital equipment wish list.
MNR Fires B.C.
It's been a busy year for some of Ontario's forest firefighters - in British Columbia.
Another one hundred firerangers and support staff will be joining the 230 now helping with suppression efforts in the west coast.
Dave Manol an incident commander, says area firefighters benefit from these type of exchanges.
It's been almost eight weeks since the first group of firefighters were deployed in B-C by the M-N-R.
Another one hundred firerangers and support staff will be joining the 230 now helping with suppression efforts in the west coast.
Dave Manol an incident commander, says area firefighters benefit from these type of exchanges.
It's been almost eight weeks since the first group of firefighters were deployed in B-C by the M-N-R.
Fatal Crash near Nipigon
1-person is dead and 7-are injured after a crash on the Trans-Canada Highway near Nipigon.
A minivan carrying 6-people, including 4-children, crossed the centre line and hit a Jeep, carrying 2.
The male driver of the van died at the scene.
The others were taken to Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre with undetermined injuries.
No names have been released.
A minivan carrying 6-people, including 4-children, crossed the centre line and hit a Jeep, carrying 2.
The male driver of the van died at the scene.
The others were taken to Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre with undetermined injuries.
No names have been released.
Thunder Bay Drug Bust
Four Fort William First Nation men face drug charges following raids at 2-homes by Thunder Bay OPP.
Police say that 20 grams of marijuana, more than 10 grams of cocaine and drug paraphernalia were seized.
One man was charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking a controlled substance, obstructing a police officer and breach of an undertaking.
He is being held for a bail hearing.
3-others have been charged and released.
Police say that 20 grams of marijuana, more than 10 grams of cocaine and drug paraphernalia were seized.
One man was charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking a controlled substance, obstructing a police officer and breach of an undertaking.
He is being held for a bail hearing.
3-others have been charged and released.
Alzheimer's Ride For Memories
Photo Courtesy of Bruce WalchukThe totals are in from last week's Alzheimer's Ride for Memories.
The fundraiser was a major success, with the event raising the most money ever in its 7-year history.
137-motorcycles participated and nearly 35-thousand dollars was raised.
Rickford Employment Forum
A round table discussion on maximizing employment opportunities in Kenora was held on Tuesday.
Community stakeholders spent the afternoon brainstorming ideas on how to create more jobs in Kenora.
Kenora MP Greg Rickford says it was a fruitful discussion.
The meeting also looked at how to best use recent funding announcements from the Federal Government.
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