Kenora is working towards preventing injuries.
The municipality joined the Safe Communities Canada organization several years ago and has
started up several safety initiatives since then.
National President Paul Kells says Kenora is a very safe community, scoring 18 out of 20 on their national report card.
Kells says the city should be proud of its high ranking.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Pickle Lake Arrest
A 41-year-old Sandy Lake First Nation man has been charged in relation to a break and enter in Pickle Lake.
While on patrol early Friday morning, OPP found the front door to a local convenience store forced open.
Police investigated and found the accused inside the vacant store eating several items.
OPP arrested and charged Joseph Loon.
Loon will appear in court next month.
While on patrol early Friday morning, OPP found the front door to a local convenience store forced open.
Police investigated and found the accused inside the vacant store eating several items.
OPP arrested and charged Joseph Loon.
Loon will appear in court next month.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Operation Impact Today
Be patient when driving this Thanksgiving long weekend.
Police will be hitting the road in full force starting at noon today and will be on the lookout for unsafe, aggressive and impaired drivers.
Constable Dave Cain says they're launching "Operation Impact."
The initiative concludes Monday just before midnight.
Police will be hitting the road in full force starting at noon today and will be on the lookout for unsafe, aggressive and impaired drivers.
Constable Dave Cain says they're launching "Operation Impact."
The initiative concludes Monday just before midnight.
ORNGE Sioux Lookout
Ornge has deployed a new aircraft in Sioux Lookout.Ornge is the provider of air and land ambulance patient transfers in Ontario.
President Dr. Chris Mazza says the Pilatus aircraft will help them provide more efficient and effective service.
Mazza says the PC-12 will provide service for patients requiring advanced and critical care during transport.
President Dr. Chris Mazza says the Pilatus aircraft will help them provide more efficient and effective service.
Mazza says the PC-12 will provide service for patients requiring advanced and critical care during transport.
Yet another children's aid agency in the Kenora and Rainy River districts is feeling the pinch from recent government cuts.
It was revealed at Queen's Park yesterday that Wee-chi-ti-win Family Services lost 941-thousand as part of a 4-point-5 million dollar cut to six native agencies.
N-D-P leader Andrea Horwath joined aboriginal leaders in calling for a moratorium on those cuts.
Aboriginal Affairs Minister Brad Duguid says his ministry to working with the agencies to find solutions, but noted several millions of dollars had been provided to help children in need.
It was revealed at Queen's Park yesterday that Wee-chi-ti-win Family Services lost 941-thousand as part of a 4-point-5 million dollar cut to six native agencies.
N-D-P leader Andrea Horwath joined aboriginal leaders in calling for a moratorium on those cuts.
Aboriginal Affairs Minister Brad Duguid says his ministry to working with the agencies to find solutions, but noted several millions of dollars had been provided to help children in need.
Boil Water Advisory
The final connection on the City of Kenora's new water line is expected to be complete after the Thanksgiving long weekend.
Due to the on going work, the City and the Northwestern Health Unit decided to leave the boil water advisory in place as a precaution.
Operations Manager Rick Perchuk says the advisory impacts Keeatin, Norman and Tunnel Island.
The health unit will be sampling the water after the final connection is made.
It could be mid week before the advisory is lifted; since it takes several days for the tests to come back.
Due to the on going work, the City and the Northwestern Health Unit decided to leave the boil water advisory in place as a precaution.
Operations Manager Rick Perchuk says the advisory impacts Keeatin, Norman and Tunnel Island.
The health unit will be sampling the water after the final connection is made.
It could be mid week before the advisory is lifted; since it takes several days for the tests to come back.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Balmertown Arrested
A Balmertown woman failed to go quietly.
An off-duty OPP officer was driving by Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park and witnessed an altercation between 2-females.
With the assistance of a Thunder Bay Police Officer, one of the females was eventually arrested.
OPP say 29-year-old Wanda Wabano has been charged with assault with a weapon, assault causing bodily harm, assault, assaulting police and resisting arrest.
Wabano remains in custody.
An off-duty OPP officer was driving by Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park and witnessed an altercation between 2-females.
With the assistance of a Thunder Bay Police Officer, one of the females was eventually arrested.
OPP say 29-year-old Wanda Wabano has been charged with assault with a weapon, assault causing bodily harm, assault, assaulting police and resisting arrest.
Wabano remains in custody.
Busters BBQ Award
Another award for Vermilion Bay's Busters Barbeque Sauce.
The famous Blueberry sauce picked up the 2009 People's Choice Champion Award at the American Royal BBQ Contest in Kansas City.
That's the second People's Choice award of the year for Busters.
Officials say Busters is hounoured with the accolades they've received.
The famous Blueberry sauce picked up the 2009 People's Choice Champion Award at the American Royal BBQ Contest in Kansas City.
That's the second People's Choice award of the year for Busters.
Officials say Busters is hounoured with the accolades they've received.
Bootlegger Charged
A 75-year-old Fort Frances man faces charges following an investigation into an illegal liquor sales operation in the community.
Provincial police charged Edward Teeple after a nearly two-week probe into illegal liquor sales in which several individuals, many of whom were under aged, had purchased alcohol from a resident.
Teeple is appear in court this week on charges of unlawfully keeping Liquor for sale, unlawfully selling liqour and selling to a Person Who Appears Under 19 Years.
Provincial police charged Edward Teeple after a nearly two-week probe into illegal liquor sales in which several individuals, many of whom were under aged, had purchased alcohol from a resident.
Teeple is appear in court this week on charges of unlawfully keeping Liquor for sale, unlawfully selling liqour and selling to a Person Who Appears Under 19 Years.
Problem Gambling
The Responsible Gambling Council says there are a number of gambling blind spots, that if left unchecked, may lead to a serious problem.
Job Kelly explains some of the signs of a problem gambler.
He says research shows that an estimated 21-hundred people in the Kenora and Rainy-River
Districts are experiencing a moderate to severe gambling problem.
Job Kelly explains some of the signs of a problem gambler.
He says research shows that an estimated 21-hundred people in the Kenora and Rainy-River
Districts are experiencing a moderate to severe gambling problem.
Universities Courting Students
Twenty-one Ontario Universities were in vying for the attention of this year's graduating class from Beaver Brae Secondary School.
University representatives were at the school on Monday to promote their institutions to local students.
Amelia Burton of the University of Waterloo says its effective recruitment tool for her university.
The Universities began their northern swing in Thunder Bay and will end it in Timmins by the end of the week.
University representatives were at the school on Monday to promote their institutions to local students.
Amelia Burton of the University of Waterloo says its effective recruitment tool for her university.
The Universities began their northern swing in Thunder Bay and will end it in Timmins by the end of the week.
Kenora Death More Charges
Four more people have been charged as a result of the on-going investigation into the death of a 43 year old Kenora man this past March in the area of the Tower Motel.
The OPP say one man has been charged with assault and theft, a second charged with assault and possession of stolen property.
The other two suspects face charges of assault.
The body of Edward Harvey Wilson was found near the CP train tracks in Norman on March 21st.
Two people are currently awaiting trial on second degree murder charges.
The OPP say one man has been charged with assault and theft, a second charged with assault and possession of stolen property.
The other two suspects face charges of assault.
The body of Edward Harvey Wilson was found near the CP train tracks in Norman on March 21st.
Two people are currently awaiting trial on second degree murder charges.
Hampton on Health Minister Resignation
Kenora Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton is applauding the resignation of Ontario Health Minister David Caplan.
Caplan resigned yesterday over the electronic health records scandal.
Hampton says the minister's resignation is long over due.
The health portfolio will now be held by Children and Youth Services Minister Deb Matthews.
Caplan resigned yesterday over the electronic health records scandal.
Hampton says the minister's resignation is long over due.
The health portfolio will now be held by Children and Youth Services Minister Deb Matthews.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
OPP Camp break ins
Ontario Provincial Police are reminding camp owners to lock their summer homes up tight before leaving for the winter.
Valuables should be removed or hidden out of the sight of possible burglers.
Constable Dave Cain adds in the late fall unwanted animal guests may also show up to raid your garbage.
Cain notes burglers have broken into camps in the Kenora and Sioux Narrows over the winter and stolen electronics and alcohol.
Valuables should be removed or hidden out of the sight of possible burglers.
Constable Dave Cain adds in the late fall unwanted animal guests may also show up to raid your garbage.
Cain notes burglers have broken into camps in the Kenora and Sioux Narrows over the winter and stolen electronics and alcohol.
OPPA Levi Schaeffer
More than three months following a fatal shooting in northwestern Ontario, details have been released into the death of a 25 year old Peterborough man near Pickle Lake.
The Ontario Provincial Police Assoication says they recently discovered the circustances surrounding the death of Levi Schaeffer on June 24th on Osnaburgh Lake.
Karl Walsh is president of the OPPA and says he's concerned that the director of the Special Investigations Unit did not include the details of the incident in his final report.
Walsh says the incident took place after officers confronted Schaeffer after receiving reports of a stolen boat.
He says Schaeffer had a knife and threatened the officers and backed them into an area they couldn't get out of.
One of the officers fire in self-defense, killing Schaeffer.
The Ontario Provincial Police Assoication says they recently discovered the circustances surrounding the death of Levi Schaeffer on June 24th on Osnaburgh Lake.
Karl Walsh is president of the OPPA and says he's concerned that the director of the Special Investigations Unit did not include the details of the incident in his final report.
Walsh says the incident took place after officers confronted Schaeffer after receiving reports of a stolen boat.
He says Schaeffer had a knife and threatened the officers and backed them into an area they couldn't get out of.
One of the officers fire in self-defense, killing Schaeffer.
Fatal Accident Rainy River
A post-mortem is being carried out today at Lake of the Woods District Hospital on a 63 year old Emo man killed in an industrial accident.
The OPP say the accident involved a grader which had been working on the Turtle River Road in the Rainy River District yesterday morning.
Ambulence and fire crews were dispatched from Fort Frances.
The deceased has been identified as Larry Mann.
An investigator from the Ministry of Labor has been brought in to look into the incident.
The OPP say the accident involved a grader which had been working on the Turtle River Road in the Rainy River District yesterday morning.
Ambulence and fire crews were dispatched from Fort Frances.
The deceased has been identified as Larry Mann.
An investigator from the Ministry of Labor has been brought in to look into the incident.
Mining Act
Progressive Conservative Randy Hillier says the Ontario government is pushing through its reforms to the Mining Act without enough debate.
The government ended discussion on the bill with a vote of 56 to 30.
Hillier, a critic for northern affairs, mining and forestry, says that it's too soon to end the discussion because several stakeholders still have problems with the bill.
He says a committee sat for only 5-sessions and only 1-Liberal member spoke.
The new Mining Act was brought in this spring to modernize outdated provisions and address conflicts between prospectors and private landowners.
The government ended discussion on the bill with a vote of 56 to 30.
Hillier, a critic for northern affairs, mining and forestry, says that it's too soon to end the discussion because several stakeholders still have problems with the bill.
He says a committee sat for only 5-sessions and only 1-Liberal member spoke.
The new Mining Act was brought in this spring to modernize outdated provisions and address conflicts between prospectors and private landowners.
Hammond Reef
Drilling has started on the Hammond Reef Gold property north of Atikokan.
Vancouver-based Brett Resources says the work is to further examine a potentially large gold deposit in the area and to seek out new deposits.
The drilling program is to be completed by the fall of 2010.
Vancouver-based Brett Resources says the work is to further examine a potentially large gold deposit in the area and to seek out new deposits.
The drilling program is to be completed by the fall of 2010.
Laurentian Dryden
Laurentian Goldfields has wrapped up its summer exploration program on its Van Horne project south of Dryden.
The Vancouver based company is now developing targets for a winter drilling program.
Drill targets will be selected using geochemical and geophysical data.Laurentian has more than 3-thousand hectares of mining claims in the area.
The Vancouver based company is now developing targets for a winter drilling program.
Drill targets will be selected using geochemical and geophysical data.Laurentian has more than 3-thousand hectares of mining claims in the area.
Bootlegger Charged
A 75-year-old Fort Frances man faces charges following an investigation into an illegal liquor sales operation in the community.
Provincial police charged Edward Teeple after a nearly two-week probe into illegal liquor sales in which several individuals, many of whom were under aged, had purchased alcohol from a resident.
Teeple is appear in court this week on charges of unlawfully keeping Liquor for sale, unlawfully selling liqour and selling to a Person Who Appears Under 19 Years.
Provincial police charged Edward Teeple after a nearly two-week probe into illegal liquor sales in which several individuals, many of whom were under aged, had purchased alcohol from a resident.
Teeple is appear in court this week on charges of unlawfully keeping Liquor for sale, unlawfully selling liqour and selling to a Person Who Appears Under 19 Years.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Grassy Narrows Logging
The Grassy Narrows First Nation's fight against logging on traditional lands is expected to be heard today in an Ontario court.
The aboriginal group from northwestern Ontario ischallenging the province's right to permit industrial logging, which the First Nation says violates its treaty rights.
Joseph Fobister , a spokesman for the group, says the First Nation has been asking the province for years to stop the logging on their traditional lands.
The case was supposed to start yesterday, but was put offbecause one of the government lawyers got the flu.
The aboriginal group from northwestern Ontario ischallenging the province's right to permit industrial logging, which the First Nation says violates its treaty rights.
Joseph Fobister , a spokesman for the group, says the First Nation has been asking the province for years to stop the logging on their traditional lands.
The case was supposed to start yesterday, but was put offbecause one of the government lawyers got the flu.
EI Northern Ontario
Ontario N-D-P Leader Andrea Horwath says the McGuinty governmentneeds to get jobs to people in northern Ontario.
Her demand follows a Statistics Canada report which shows a sharp increase in employment insurance claims in the region.
But Minister of Northern Development and Mines Michael Gravelle says the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund has helped retain more than 12-thousand jobs over the last six years.
Her demand follows a Statistics Canada report which shows a sharp increase in employment insurance claims in the region.
But Minister of Northern Development and Mines Michael Gravelle says the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund has helped retain more than 12-thousand jobs over the last six years.
Fire Prevention Week
Stay Fire Smart-Don't get burned.
That's this year's theme for fire prevention week in Ontario.
Kenora Fire Chief Warren Brinkman says everyone should have working smoke alarms.
The Ontario Fire Marshall's Office says in some home fires people have less than a minute to escape.
Fire Prevention Week runs today until Saturday.
That's this year's theme for fire prevention week in Ontario.
Kenora Fire Chief Warren Brinkman says everyone should have working smoke alarms.
The Ontario Fire Marshall's Office says in some home fires people have less than a minute to escape.
Fire Prevention Week runs today until Saturday.
Flu Aboriginal Communities
Aboriginal leaders and opposition parties warn that communities in northern Ontario could be more vulnerable to the spread of swine flu this fall.
N-D-P health critic Frances JELL'-ee-nah says poverty and overcrowding is creating dangerous situations on First Nation reserves and remote communities.
Health Minister David Caplan says protective gear and antivirals have already been shipped to areas across the province, but the province is still waiting for federal approval of the H-1-N-1 vaccine.
N-D-P health critic Frances JELL'-ee-nah says poverty and overcrowding is creating dangerous situations on First Nation reserves and remote communities.
Health Minister David Caplan says protective gear and antivirals have already been shipped to areas across the province, but the province is still waiting for federal approval of the H-1-N-1 vaccine.
Winnipeg Shoal Lake #40
Winnipeg is poised to sign a deal with a Shoal Lake-area First Nation that could see the community receive a water treatment plant of its own.
For the past 90 years, Winnipeg has obtained its drinking water from a small body of water called Indian Bay, which is part of Shoal Lake on the Manitoba-Ontario border.
Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz says the agreement is a follow-up to a deal signed between the two sides back in 1989.
Katz says ideally, Shoal Lake #40 should be able to get its own water treatment facility out of the agreement.
For the past 90 years, Winnipeg has obtained its drinking water from a small body of water called Indian Bay, which is part of Shoal Lake on the Manitoba-Ontario border.
Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz says the agreement is a follow-up to a deal signed between the two sides back in 1989.
Katz says ideally, Shoal Lake #40 should be able to get its own water treatment facility out of the agreement.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Mental Health Week
Mental Health Week is being observed by the Canadian Mental Health Association with this year’s theme being "invest in yourself".
CMHA spokesperson Debbie Baldwin says positive mental health enables us to resist stress, take opportunities and tackle challenges.
Baldwin notes they'll be spreading the word about their services during mental health week 2009.
Mental Health Week runs October 5th to 9th.
CMHA spokesperson Debbie Baldwin says positive mental health enables us to resist stress, take opportunities and tackle challenges.
Baldwin notes they'll be spreading the word about their services during mental health week 2009.
Mental Health Week runs October 5th to 9th.
Confederation College Votes
Voting will take place this week at Confederation College campuses across the region for part-tim support staff.
The issue is whether the workers should belong to the Ontario Public Service Employees Union.
Spokesperson for the college workers Richard Belleau says they were only given the right to join a union recently.
Voting will take place in Kenora, Dryden and Sioux Lookout on Tuesday, and Fort Frances on Wednesday.
The certifcation vote is scheduled to wrap up across the province at the end of this month.
The issue is whether the workers should belong to the Ontario Public Service Employees Union.
Spokesperson for the college workers Richard Belleau says they were only given the right to join a union recently.
Voting will take place in Kenora, Dryden and Sioux Lookout on Tuesday, and Fort Frances on Wednesday.
The certifcation vote is scheduled to wrap up across the province at the end of this month.
H1N1 Flu Update
There appears to be a second wave of the HINI breaking outin southern Ontario.
That's the suggestion from Dr. David Williams, the AssociateMedical Officer of Health for the province.
Williams was in Kenora last week meeting with health unitstaff and says they are still awaiting results on the suspected cases.
The Minister of Health is urging the federal government torelease the vaccine for the HINI virus sooner rather than later.
The shots are expected to be ready until early November.
That's the suggestion from Dr. David Williams, the AssociateMedical Officer of Health for the province.
Williams was in Kenora last week meeting with health unitstaff and says they are still awaiting results on the suspected cases.
The Minister of Health is urging the federal government torelease the vaccine for the HINI virus sooner rather than later.
The shots are expected to be ready until early November.
Water Levels
With winter starting to close in, water levels are starting to decline on Lake of the Woods.
The Lake of the Woods Control Board says levels went down more than an inch this past weekand is expected to drop another two to four inches over the next seven days.
Outflow has increased slightly in recent days, with 485 cubic meters per second flowing through the Norman Dam into the Winnipeg River.
The Lake of the Woods Control Board says levels went down more than an inch this past weekand is expected to drop another two to four inches over the next seven days.
Outflow has increased slightly in recent days, with 485 cubic meters per second flowing through the Norman Dam into the Winnipeg River.
Boil Water Advisory
Another boil water advisory has been put in place in parts of the City of Kenora.
Homes, businesses, and facilities located in Tunnel Island, Norman, and Keewatin are asked to
boil their water for at least a full minute before consuming it.
The Lake of the Woods District Hospital is also affected by the advisory.
The Northwestern Health Unit has determined that the safety of the drinking water cannot be guaranteed at this time.
The advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
Homes, businesses, and facilities located in Tunnel Island, Norman, and Keewatin are asked to
boil their water for at least a full minute before consuming it.
The Lake of the Woods District Hospital is also affected by the advisory.
The Northwestern Health Unit has determined that the safety of the drinking water cannot be guaranteed at this time.
The advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
Grassy Narrows Court
The Ontario Superior Court in Toronto will start hearing evidence today in the Grassy Narrows First Nation's fight against logging.
The northwestern Ontario First Nation is challenging the province's right to give industrial logging the green light when Grassy Narrows says the logging interferes with its treaty rights.
Last year, forest industry giant AbitibiBowater pulled out of theWhiskey Jack Forest north of Kenora.
The company said it couldn't wait four more years for theprovince and the Grassy Narrows First Nation to agree on logging practices.
The northwestern Ontario First Nation is challenging the province's right to give industrial logging the green light when Grassy Narrows says the logging interferes with its treaty rights.
Last year, forest industry giant AbitibiBowater pulled out of theWhiskey Jack Forest north of Kenora.
The company said it couldn't wait four more years for theprovince and the Grassy Narrows First Nation to agree on logging practices.
Northwestern Ontario Bears
The Ontario government says complaints about nuisance black bearswon't bring back the spring bear hunt.
Natural Resources Minister Donna Cansfield says there's noevidence to support the claims of more nuisance bears in northernand central Ontario.
She says it's no surprise there have been more complaints becausethe government's Bear Wise program encourages reporting.
Natural Resources Minister Donna Cansfield says there's noevidence to support the claims of more nuisance bears in northernand central Ontario.
She says it's no surprise there have been more complaints becausethe government's Bear Wise program encourages reporting.
A and W Landing
The Ministry of Defence is launching an investigation into the landing of a Canadian Forces helicopter in Kenora.
Defence Ministry Spokesperson Dan Dugas says they're trying to determine why the landing happened.
On Thursday, a Canadian Military Helicopter touched down in the parking lot across from A&W for a food run.
Dugas says at no time during the landing or takeoff was there a danger to the public's safety.
Defence Ministry Spokesperson Dan Dugas says they're trying to determine why the landing happened.
On Thursday, a Canadian Military Helicopter touched down in the parking lot across from A&W for a food run.
Dugas says at no time during the landing or takeoff was there a danger to the public's safety.
Layton HST
NDP Leader Jack Layton is taking his campaign for Employment Insurance reform to Northwestern Ontario.
Layton was in Thunder Bay on a tour of the region on Saturday to meet with local workers and ask them what they need from the Employment Insurance system.
At a press conference he also discussed the possibility of a harmonized sales tax and Layton said Prime Minister Stephen Harper would put eight more cents on the dollar.
Layton asked why the legislation has to go through the House of Commons in order for the tax to be passed if the HST is a provincial decision.
Layton was in Thunder Bay on a tour of the region on Saturday to meet with local workers and ask them what they need from the Employment Insurance system.
At a press conference he also discussed the possibility of a harmonized sales tax and Layton said Prime Minister Stephen Harper would put eight more cents on the dollar.
Layton asked why the legislation has to go through the House of Commons in order for the tax to be passed if the HST is a provincial decision.
Police Training
The entire Thunder Bay police force is going to get additional human rights training.
The news accompanied an announcement the force has reached a settlement approved by Ontario`s Human Rights Tribunal with Abraham Miles.
Miles, an aboriginal, was a 17-year old high school student in the fall of 2007 when he was grilled by officers about a possible connection to a street gang while he was on a tour of the city`s police station.
The news accompanied an announcement the force has reached a settlement approved by Ontario`s Human Rights Tribunal with Abraham Miles.
Miles, an aboriginal, was a 17-year old high school student in the fall of 2007 when he was grilled by officers about a possible connection to a street gang while he was on a tour of the city`s police station.
Greyhound Talks
Talks are set to go Wednesday to help save Greyhound services in northwestern Ontario.
The company and Ontario Transportation Minister Jim Bradley will meet for an undetermined length of time to work out a solution.
Greyhound vice-president Stuart Kendrick says he would like to see a leadership role from provincial and federal ministers for a short-term, 15-million break-even subsidy, that would give both sides 12 months to look at a long-term plan.
Greyhound has set a December 2nd deadline of pulling the plug on northwestern Ontario services.
The company and Ontario Transportation Minister Jim Bradley will meet for an undetermined length of time to work out a solution.
Greyhound vice-president Stuart Kendrick says he would like to see a leadership role from provincial and federal ministers for a short-term, 15-million break-even subsidy, that would give both sides 12 months to look at a long-term plan.
Greyhound has set a December 2nd deadline of pulling the plug on northwestern Ontario services.
Friday, October 2, 2009
NWHU FLU
The Northwestern Health Unit says its continuing to work on plans for the upcoming flu season.
Staff are meeting this week in part to get ready for what's expected to be a busy flu season.
Dr. Jim Arthurs is the acting medical officer of health and says while plans are important, they also have to be flexible.
Arthurs adds that he's not planning any widespread immunization program for the schools this fall, even though people aged 5-20 are thought to be the most at risk for the swine flu.
Staff are meeting this week in part to get ready for what's expected to be a busy flu season.
Dr. Jim Arthurs is the acting medical officer of health and says while plans are important, they also have to be flexible.
Arthurs adds that he's not planning any widespread immunization program for the schools this fall, even though people aged 5-20 are thought to be the most at risk for the swine flu.
Post Office Makeover
The federal building in Kenora is getting a makeover.
The federal government is going to spend 330 thousand dollars to refurbish the red brick structure.
Work will include upgrades to the washrooms, new carpetsand repairs to the crawl space
foundation walls.
The upgrades are scheduled to be complete by March of 2010.
The funding comes from the government's Economic Action Plan.
The federal government is going to spend 330 thousand dollars to refurbish the red brick structure.
Work will include upgrades to the washrooms, new carpetsand repairs to the crawl space
foundation walls.
The upgrades are scheduled to be complete by March of 2010.
The funding comes from the government's Economic Action Plan.
September Weather
It was a September to remember for most communities innorthwestern Ontario.
Environment Canada says temperatures averaged aboutsix degrees above normal.
Geoff Coulson is a climatologist and says surprisingly,there was still a fair bit of rainfall in Kenora last month.
Coulson says Kenora, Sioux Lookout, Dryden, Red Lake and Pickle Lake actually set records for the warmest September onrecord.
Environment Canada says temperatures averaged aboutsix degrees above normal.
Geoff Coulson is a climatologist and says surprisingly,there was still a fair bit of rainfall in Kenora last month.
Coulson says Kenora, Sioux Lookout, Dryden, Red Lake and Pickle Lake actually set records for the warmest September onrecord.
Ignace Hunting Fine
Three Ignace hunters have been fined a total of 900 dollars for illegally camping on crown land.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says the trio had set up camp sites in three separate locations in the fall of 2008 and winter of 2009.
The camps had been used during moose hunting season and left up all winter long.
The hunters were fined for unauthorized use of crown land.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says the trio had set up camp sites in three separate locations in the fall of 2008 and winter of 2009.
The camps had been used during moose hunting season and left up all winter long.
The hunters were fined for unauthorized use of crown land.
Pickle Lake Death
The Special Investigations Unit says the results are inconclusive into a police-shooting death of a Peterborough man in Northwestern Ontario.
The agency examined the death of Levi Schaeffer, who was killed on June 24th near Pickle Lake.
Despite the inconclusive results, the S-I-U found no basis for criminal charges against the unidentified O-P-P officer.
The S-I-U says notes made by police officers after the incident were not independent, nor written in a timely manner.
The agency examined the death of Levi Schaeffer, who was killed on June 24th near Pickle Lake.
Despite the inconclusive results, the S-I-U found no basis for criminal charges against the unidentified O-P-P officer.
The S-I-U says notes made by police officers after the incident were not independent, nor written in a timely manner.
First Nation Health Care
Lake of the Woods Hospital and area first nations could be teaming up in the near future.
The hospital board discussed possible partnerships between the hospital and first nation when it comes to building a new facility.
Board Member Anita Cameron says the first nations community wants to provide input.
Cameron notes the hospital needs to talk to more than just the first nation's chief and council, and should talk to other first nation organizations as well.
The hospital board discussed possible partnerships between the hospital and first nation when it comes to building a new facility.
Board Member Anita Cameron says the first nations community wants to provide input.
Cameron notes the hospital needs to talk to more than just the first nation's chief and council, and should talk to other first nation organizations as well.
Take Back The Night
Two women's organizations will be banding together to raise awareness of gender violence.
Women's Place Kenora will be teaming up with the aboriginal women's group Sister's In Spirit to offer Take Back the Night on Saturday.
Women's Place Spokesperson Erica Olson says the event gets underway at 4pm.
In the Kenora, Dryden and Fort Frances area there have been 30 women reported missing, or murdered.
Women's Place Kenora will be teaming up with the aboriginal women's group Sister's In Spirit to offer Take Back the Night on Saturday.
Women's Place Spokesperson Erica Olson says the event gets underway at 4pm.
In the Kenora, Dryden and Fort Frances area there have been 30 women reported missing, or murdered.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Albanese Health Unit
Fort Frances councillor John Albanese will remain on the Northwestern Health Unit Board of director for another three years.
The chair of the health unit had his position recently reappointed by the province.
Albanese has been on the board for the past twenty years, the last five as its chair.
The chair of the health unit had his position recently reappointed by the province.
Albanese has been on the board for the past twenty years, the last five as its chair.
Forest Fires
The fire season in northwestern Ontario is starting to wind down, but there are still a fewsmall blazes cropping up.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says they had to respond to a couple of fires in theKenora District over the past couple of days.
Both started on islands on Lake of the Woods and were caused by lightning.
One of the blazes was near Nestor Falls and was put out by volunteerfire crews.
The other was located southwest of Blueberry Island and grew to about 0.1hectares, before being extinguished by fire ranger crews.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says they had to respond to a couple of fires in theKenora District over the past couple of days.
Both started on islands on Lake of the Woods and were caused by lightning.
One of the blazes was near Nestor Falls and was put out by volunteerfire crews.
The other was located southwest of Blueberry Island and grew to about 0.1hectares, before being extinguished by fire ranger crews.
Abitibi Bowater NOACC
Don't be afraid to print those e-mails.
That message from John Harrison, manager of AbitibiBowater's mill in Fort Frances.
Speaking at the Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce meeting, Harrison says there is nothing wrong with using paper, and questions why government thinks there is.
Harrison says the vast majority of paper produced is being recycled into products such as boxes and feminine hygiene products.
That message from John Harrison, manager of AbitibiBowater's mill in Fort Frances.
Speaking at the Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce meeting, Harrison says there is nothing wrong with using paper, and questions why government thinks there is.
Harrison says the vast majority of paper produced is being recycled into products such as boxes and feminine hygiene products.
H1N1 Williams
Local health care agencies are gearing up for a busy flu season.
Not only will there be the seasonal flu shots available, but starting in November,vaccinations for the HINI virus should be ready to administer.
Dr. David Williams is the Associate Medical Officer of Health for the province andsays to date, the outbreaks of the swine flu have been mild, but they are preparing for the worst.
Williams is meeting this week with staff from the Northwestern Health Unitto prepare for the upcoming flu season.
Not only will there be the seasonal flu shots available, but starting in November,vaccinations for the HINI virus should be ready to administer.
Dr. David Williams is the Associate Medical Officer of Health for the province andsays to date, the outbreaks of the swine flu have been mild, but they are preparing for the worst.
Williams is meeting this week with staff from the Northwestern Health Unitto prepare for the upcoming flu season.
Drug Sweep
15-Thunder Bay residents and 1-North Bay man have been charged following a 10-month police drug investigation.
Two of the accused are aged 16 and 17.Police say the undercover investigation focused on drug traffickers operating in and around the Thunder Bay area.
Police laid a total of 84 charges, including trafficking and possession of property obtained by crime.
Officers seized cocaine, marijuana, marijuana plants and a rifle.
Two of the accused are aged 16 and 17.Police say the undercover investigation focused on drug traffickers operating in and around the Thunder Bay area.
Police laid a total of 84 charges, including trafficking and possession of property obtained by crime.
Officers seized cocaine, marijuana, marijuana plants and a rifle.
Drug Problem Dryden
Dryden Police Chief Shayne MacKinnon says the rash of recent home invasions and robberies in the community is mostly drug related.
MacKinnon says the potential for violent crime is always high when it involves the trafficking of illegal and prescription drugs.
He says Dryden is not unlike any other community in Northwestern Ontario and stresses Police are continuing their fight to get drugs off the streets.
MacKinnon says the potential for violent crime is always high when it involves the trafficking of illegal and prescription drugs.
He says Dryden is not unlike any other community in Northwestern Ontario and stresses Police are continuing their fight to get drugs off the streets.
Fatal Fire in Fort
One person is dead following an overnight fire at the Lakeview Trailer Court in Fort Frances.
Emergency personnel and fire crews were called around 11 o'clock last night.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
The name of the deceased has not yet be released.
Emergency personnel and fire crews were called around 11 o'clock last night.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
The name of the deceased has not yet be released.
Thunder Bay Drug Bust
Fifteen Thunder Bay residents and one North Bay man have been charged following a 10 month police drug investigation.
Two of the accused are aged 16 and 17.
Police say the undercover investigation focused on drug traffickers operating in and around the Thunder Bay area.
Police laid a total of 84 charges, including trafficking and possession of property obtained by crime.
Officers seized cocaine, marijuana, marijuana plants and a rifle.
Two of the accused are aged 16 and 17.
Police say the undercover investigation focused on drug traffickers operating in and around the Thunder Bay area.
Police laid a total of 84 charges, including trafficking and possession of property obtained by crime.
Officers seized cocaine, marijuana, marijuana plants and a rifle.
Paper Industry Fights back
Don't be afraid to print those e-mails.
That message from John Harrison, manager of AbitibiBowater's mill in Fort Frances.
Speaking at the Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce meeting, Harrison says there is nothing wrong with using paper, and questions why government thinks there is.
Harrison says the vast majority of paper produced is being recycled into products such as boxes and feminine hygiene products.
That message from John Harrison, manager of AbitibiBowater's mill in Fort Frances.
Speaking at the Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce meeting, Harrison says there is nothing wrong with using paper, and questions why government thinks there is.
Harrison says the vast majority of paper produced is being recycled into products such as boxes and feminine hygiene products.
LHIN's Prepare Health Report
A three year health services plan for the region is nearing completion.
The Northwestern Local Health Integration Network has been working on the integrated services plan for the past three years.
Kristin Sheilds is a spokesperson for the LHIN's and says their plan included extensive public consultations.
Sheilds says the Share Your Story, Shape Your Care initiative was recently given a prestigious international award for public participation.
The Northwestern Local Health Integration Network has been working on the integrated services plan for the past three years.
Kristin Sheilds is a spokesperson for the LHIN's and says their plan included extensive public consultations.
Sheilds says the Share Your Story, Shape Your Care initiative was recently given a prestigious international award for public participation.
Health Unit readies for Flu Season
The province is working with the Northwestern Health Unit to ensure there is enough vaccine for everyone wanting it this fall and winter.
Dr. David Williams is Ontario's Associate Medical Officer of Health and is meeting this week with health unit staff on plans to roll out immunization programs.
He says its ultimately up to local health units to decide how they want to do their vaccinations.
Williams says the HINI vaccination likely won't be available locally until the beginning of November.
He adds that the most vulnerable populations, including remote first nations will be among the first to receive the vaccine.
Dr. David Williams is Ontario's Associate Medical Officer of Health and is meeting this week with health unit staff on plans to roll out immunization programs.
He says its ultimately up to local health units to decide how they want to do their vaccinations.
Williams says the HINI vaccination likely won't be available locally until the beginning of November.
He adds that the most vulnerable populations, including remote first nations will be among the first to receive the vaccine.
Two new forest fires
The fire season in northwestern Ontario is starting to wind down, but there are still a few small blazes cropping up.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says they had to respond to a couple of fires in the Kenora District over the past couple of days.
Both started on islands on Lake of the Woods and were caused by lightning.
One of the blazes was near Nestor Falls and was put out by volunteerfire crews.
The other was located southwest of Blueberry Island and grew to about 0.1hectares, before being extinguished by fire ranger crews.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says they had to respond to a couple of fires in the Kenora District over the past couple of days.
Both started on islands on Lake of the Woods and were caused by lightning.
One of the blazes was near Nestor Falls and was put out by volunteerfire crews.
The other was located southwest of Blueberry Island and grew to about 0.1hectares, before being extinguished by fire ranger crews.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
OPP Lakehead University Student Complaint
The O-P-P is looking into a complaint by a Lakehead University student.
Sergeant Pierre Chamberland says the written complaint from Ayoub Ansari will be taken ``very seriously.''
Ansari alleges police stranded him and his companions in Terrace Bay when his car was impounded after being stopped for excessive speeding earlier this month.
In his letter, Ansari alleges when he and his companions asked police for help following the speeding incident, they were rebuffed and one officer used foul language.
Sergeant Pierre Chamberland says the written complaint from Ayoub Ansari will be taken ``very seriously.''
Ansari alleges police stranded him and his companions in Terrace Bay when his car was impounded after being stopped for excessive speeding earlier this month.
In his letter, Ansari alleges when he and his companions asked police for help following the speeding incident, they were rebuffed and one officer used foul language.
Fort Frances Power
Fort Frances Power customers will be without power for about eight hours this Sunday so Hydro One can perform maintenance at a transformer station.
The outage is scheduled to last from 9 a-m to 5 p-m.
The disruption initially was supposed to last for only 10 minutes, but Hydro One says they discovered there is no alternate supply.
The work is intended to make the power supply reliable for the upcoming winter season.
The outage is scheduled to last from 9 a-m to 5 p-m.
The disruption initially was supposed to last for only 10 minutes, but Hydro One says they discovered there is no alternate supply.
The work is intended to make the power supply reliable for the upcoming winter season.
Tourism Award
The Dryden Development Corporation has been recognized for its hard work.
The DDC has won the 'Best of Category Award' for its Dryden Tourism Development and Marketing Strategy.
The project was picked from nearly 200-other submissions from across Canada.
DDC Chair Janet Pilozow says they are pleased with the award and notes its the sort of forward thinking Dryden needs to help grow the local economy.
The DDC has won the 'Best of Category Award' for its Dryden Tourism Development and Marketing Strategy.
The project was picked from nearly 200-other submissions from across Canada.
DDC Chair Janet Pilozow says they are pleased with the award and notes its the sort of forward thinking Dryden needs to help grow the local economy.
Forestry Consultations Update
Modernizing the Forest Licensing and Allocation system was the hot topic at a public consultation forum in Dryden last night.
The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and
Forestry was looking for input on what changes need to be made.
Spokesperson Brady Irwin says a final report will be presented to the Minister in charge.
One of the issues debated was what role the Provincial Government should play in determining the amount charged for Crown timber.
The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and
Forestry was looking for input on what changes need to be made.
Spokesperson Brady Irwin says a final report will be presented to the Minister in charge.
One of the issues debated was what role the Provincial Government should play in determining the amount charged for Crown timber.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Forestry Consultations
Public consultation on the forest industry will be held today in Dryden.
The Provincial Government will release details on its discussion paper, 'Ontario's Forests, Ontario's Future.
The paper looks at how wood supplies are licensed, allocated and priced.
Officials say the review of the tenure and pricing system is an important step in building a strong industry.
The consultation is set for the Regional Training Centre at 6:30.
The Provincial Government will release details on its discussion paper, 'Ontario's Forests, Ontario's Future.
The paper looks at how wood supplies are licensed, allocated and priced.
Officials say the review of the tenure and pricing system is an important step in building a strong industry.
The consultation is set for the Regional Training Centre at 6:30.
Flu Shot Clinic Dates
The former Medical Officer of Health for Ontario is paying a visit to Kenora on Wednesday.
Dr. David Williams will be talking about the upcoming H1N1 flu vaccine with members of the Northwestern Health Unit.
Health Unit Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Jim Arthurs says they look forward to discussing the upcoming flu season.
Seniors over the age of 65 are not as likely to catch the H1N1 flu and can still get their regular flu shots in October.
Meanwhile, the rest of the population will be immunized for the swine flu in November and then receive their regular flu shot in December and January.
Dr. David Williams will be talking about the upcoming H1N1 flu vaccine with members of the Northwestern Health Unit.
Health Unit Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Jim Arthurs says they look forward to discussing the upcoming flu season.
Seniors over the age of 65 are not as likely to catch the H1N1 flu and can still get their regular flu shots in October.
Meanwhile, the rest of the population will be immunized for the swine flu in November and then receive their regular flu shot in December and January.
New Fire Hall
The City of Kenora will soon have a new state of the art fire hall.
A sod turning ceremony was held this morning at the facility's new location on Barsky's Hill.
Jarnel Contracting Owner Doug Lafreniere says the building is expected to be ready by September of next year.
The new facility will cost the City around 6 million dollars.
A sod turning ceremony was held this morning at the facility's new location on Barsky's Hill.
Jarnel Contracting Owner Doug Lafreniere says the building is expected to be ready by September of next year.
The new facility will cost the City around 6 million dollars.
Women Councillors NWO
Northwestern Ontario is celebrating women in municipal politics.
In this region, the average female participation in council is 30 percent.
Thunder Bay Councillor Linda Rydholm is organizing the "Celebration of Women in Politics" at the Northwestern Ontario Regional Conference and says females bring a different perspective to the table.
Northwestern Ontario has more female representation on area councils than the Provincial Average of 23 percent.
In this region, the average female participation in council is 30 percent.
Thunder Bay Councillor Linda Rydholm is organizing the "Celebration of Women in Politics" at the Northwestern Ontario Regional Conference and says females bring a different perspective to the table.
Northwestern Ontario has more female representation on area councils than the Provincial Average of 23 percent.
Solar Power NWO
Communities across northwestern Ontario are hoping to benefit from a Provincial move to implement 10-new transmission lines creating green energy in Northern Ontario.
President of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association Anne Krassilowsky says it a great step forward but notes its just the beginning.
Krassilowsky says the 2.3-million dollar investment will help create new jobs in this region.
The Provincial opposition parties claim that it will drive up industrial hydro rates.
President of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association Anne Krassilowsky says it a great step forward but notes its just the beginning.
Krassilowsky says the 2.3-million dollar investment will help create new jobs in this region.
The Provincial opposition parties claim that it will drive up industrial hydro rates.
HST Wilkinson
Ontario's Revenue Minister says blending the provincial sales tax with G-S-T is only a part of a more comprehensive tax reform package, others aren't talking about.
John Wilkinson was at the Nortestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce meeting in Fort Frances to sell that package to area business leaders.
He says the reforms come with measures to help people cope with the taxing of goods now exempt from the PST.
Wilkinson adds there will be new tax grants for families, especially those who have a lot of children.
John Wilkinson was at the Nortestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce meeting in Fort Frances to sell that package to area business leaders.
He says the reforms come with measures to help people cope with the taxing of goods now exempt from the PST.
Wilkinson adds there will be new tax grants for families, especially those who have a lot of children.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Dufresne's Furniture Expands
Dufresne's furniture and appliances has bought up two existing Colonial Furniture Stores in Ottawa.
The Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario company will be taking over those outlets in the near future.
Vice President Debra Jonasson-Young says they have a lot in common with the stores they bought.
Jonasson-Young says they're business is thriving and hope to expand their franchise further.
The Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario company will be taking over those outlets in the near future.
Vice President Debra Jonasson-Young says they have a lot in common with the stores they bought.
Jonasson-Young says they're business is thriving and hope to expand their franchise further.
LHIN Award
The Northwest Local Health Integration Network has been handed a prestigeous international award.
The LHIN received the 2009 Innovation Award at the International Association for Public Particpation Conference in San Diego.
The group was recognized for its Share Your Storey, Shape Your Care initiative.
The project reached out to residents across the Region to help shape the future of the local health care system.
Dryden was a major player in the initaitive with the highest participation rate.
The LHIN received the 2009 Innovation Award at the International Association for Public Particpation Conference in San Diego.
The group was recognized for its Share Your Storey, Shape Your Care initiative.
The project reached out to residents across the Region to help shape the future of the local health care system.
Dryden was a major player in the initaitive with the highest participation rate.
Rabbit Lake Shoreline
After much discussion, Kenora City Council has agreed to sell parcels of the Rabbit Lake
Shoreline to homeowners with abutting property.
There will be a number of conditions attached to the sale of the shoreline.
Council says that that there cannot be any negative impact to fish and wildlife in the area.
The municipality also cannot have any interest in the land, and best practices need to be followed for shoreline stewardship.
A number of Rabbit Lake residents had made a request to the property and planning committee to make shoreline property available to them.
Shoreline to homeowners with abutting property.
There will be a number of conditions attached to the sale of the shoreline.
Council says that that there cannot be any negative impact to fish and wildlife in the area.
The municipality also cannot have any interest in the land, and best practices need to be followed for shoreline stewardship.
A number of Rabbit Lake residents had made a request to the property and planning committee to make shoreline property available to them.
OPP Charge Daily Miner
The editor and the publisher of the Kenora Daily Miner and News have been charged under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
After a lengthy investigation, the OPP laid the charges after receiving a complaint that the local newspaper had published a photograph of a youth who was charged with a criminal offense.
Shelley Garr is a spokesperson for the OPP in Thunder Bay and says a couple of charges have been laid in this incident.
They are due to appear in Kenora Court on November 9th to answer the charges.
Under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, its illegal to publish anything that might lead to the identity of a young offender.
After a lengthy investigation, the OPP laid the charges after receiving a complaint that the local newspaper had published a photograph of a youth who was charged with a criminal offense.
Shelley Garr is a spokesperson for the OPP in Thunder Bay and says a couple of charges have been laid in this incident.
They are due to appear in Kenora Court on November 9th to answer the charges.
Under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, its illegal to publish anything that might lead to the identity of a young offender.
OPP Service Hours August
The commander of the Kenora Detachment of the OPP says their first month of policing the City of Kenora has gone well.
Inspector Dave Lucas made his first report to the Kenora Police Services Board on Friday.
Lucas says officers compiled over seven thousand hours of duty, plus another 324 hours in overtime.
The OPP had over 15 hundred calls for service last month.
Lucas says August tends to be one of the busier months of the year due to all the special events in the city, including Harborfest and KBI.
Inspector Dave Lucas made his first report to the Kenora Police Services Board on Friday.
Lucas says officers compiled over seven thousand hours of duty, plus another 324 hours in overtime.
The OPP had over 15 hundred calls for service last month.
Lucas says August tends to be one of the busier months of the year due to all the special events in the city, including Harborfest and KBI.
OPP Data Entry
The OPP says its found a way of keeping officers out onthe street and on patrol instead of behind the desk writing reports.
Inspector Dave Lucas says they have a state-of-the-art dataentry system, which is freeing up officers for other more important duties.
Lucas says the data entry system is one of the few beingused by the OPP.
He says it was part of the contract agreement when the OPPagreed to start policing the city.
Inspector Dave Lucas says they have a state-of-the-art dataentry system, which is freeing up officers for other more important duties.
Lucas says the data entry system is one of the few beingused by the OPP.
He says it was part of the contract agreement when the OPPagreed to start policing the city.
Police Services Board
The Kenora Police Services Board is now down to just three members.
The new board met yesterday for the first time.
Colin Wasacase and Kenora mayor Len Compton were appointed asthe municipal representitives on the board.
The province still hasn't indicated who it plans to appoint.
Pat Brett is continuing on as the provincial representive,but he says his appointment is basically a six monthinterim position.
He says he will remain on the board until he's re-appointedas the provincial rep, or the Minister of Community Safetyfinds a replacement.
The new board met yesterday for the first time.
Colin Wasacase and Kenora mayor Len Compton were appointed asthe municipal representitives on the board.
The province still hasn't indicated who it plans to appoint.
Pat Brett is continuing on as the provincial representive,but he says his appointment is basically a six monthinterim position.
He says he will remain on the board until he's re-appointedas the provincial rep, or the Minister of Community Safetyfinds a replacement.
Thunder Bay Wood
The McGuinty Government is providing over 1-million dollars in funding and more then 3.8-million dollars in loan guarantees to support a new Wood Products Factory in Thunder Bay.
Canadian Company Global Sticks will build a state-of-the-art factory to create sticks used for ice cream bars, popsicles, corn dogs and tongue depressors.
Construction is expected to begin next month and will be completed in January.
The Mill will employee roughly 75-people.
Canadian Company Global Sticks will build a state-of-the-art factory to create sticks used for ice cream bars, popsicles, corn dogs and tongue depressors.
Construction is expected to begin next month and will be completed in January.
The Mill will employee roughly 75-people.
Northern Growth Plan Update
It hasn't been released yet, but there is already concerns being expressed with the proposed Northern Growth plan.
David Lindsay, Northern Development, Mines and Forestry Deputy Minister, says a draft of the economic blueprint for the north should be released by the end of October or early November.
But Lindsay says there is already talk that it will be a grant program for the north which it won't be.
Lindsay says the document should be more about changing attitudes and policies that foster development.
David Lindsay, Northern Development, Mines and Forestry Deputy Minister, says a draft of the economic blueprint for the north should be released by the end of October or early November.
But Lindsay says there is already talk that it will be a grant program for the north which it won't be.
Lindsay says the document should be more about changing attitudes and policies that foster development.
Worst Roads Campaign
There is only 3-days left to vote for Ontario's worst road.
Local residents can submit their vote by going to www.worstroads.ca.
90-percent of the top 20 worst roads listed in previous years have been or about to be repaired.
The initiative is meant to convince the Government to fix roads, highways and bridges.
Local residents can submit their vote by going to www.worstroads.ca.
90-percent of the top 20 worst roads listed in previous years have been or about to be repaired.
The initiative is meant to convince the Government to fix roads, highways and bridges.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Greyhound Hampton
Kenora-Rainy River M-P-P Howard Howard wants to know why the province hasn't met with Greyhound over the bus company's plans to withdraw service in northwestern Ontario.
Hampton told the legislature yesterday that while Greyhound worked out a deal last week to continue service in Manitoba, no such meetings are planned with the McGuinty government.
Transportation Minister Jim Bradley said he felt optimistic another company would be prepared to take over Greyhound's routes if it moved forward with its withdrawal of service on December 2nd.
Hampton told the legislature yesterday that while Greyhound worked out a deal last week to continue service in Manitoba, no such meetings are planned with the McGuinty government.
Transportation Minister Jim Bradley said he felt optimistic another company would be prepared to take over Greyhound's routes if it moved forward with its withdrawal of service on December 2nd.
Expensive Sidewalk
Its going to cost a lot more to complete a sidewalk along Lakeview Drive between Bayview Toyota and Minnesota Street.
Council has approved an extra 60 thousand dollars for the project.
Councillor Dave McCann says the project was very expensive and they need the extra funds to complete it properly.
That inlcudes a pedestrian handrail, vehicle guardrails and ashphalt patching.
Council has approved an extra 60 thousand dollars for the project.
Councillor Dave McCann says the project was very expensive and they need the extra funds to complete it properly.
That inlcudes a pedestrian handrail, vehicle guardrails and ashphalt patching.
Sidewalk Plowing
The City of Kenora is going to have to cough up over 40 thousand dollars for a new sidewalk plow.
Councillor Dave McCann says the city has a fleet of three sidewalk plows, but one is on its last legs and needs to be replaced prior to winter.
He adds that the plow that is being replaced is so old that they werenot able to get a good trade-in for it.
He suggests the new plow will be more efficient and shouldn't breakdown as much.
Councillor Dave McCann says the city has a fleet of three sidewalk plows, but one is on its last legs and needs to be replaced prior to winter.
He adds that the plow that is being replaced is so old that they werenot able to get a good trade-in for it.
He suggests the new plow will be more efficient and shouldn't breakdown as much.
Parking Problems
The City of Kenora is trying to decide what to do about parking in the harborfront next year when phase two of the downtown revitalization project begins.
A number of the permanent spaces on the south parking lot will be taken out of service due to contruction.
Bill Richards is the chair of the Harbortown Center Committee and says they had a meeting of stakeholders yesterday morning to discuss the issue.
A number of suggestions have been made, including using the parking lot beside Hing's Restaurant,the Kenora Rec. Center, or the Mall Parking lot.
A report will be made to council with all the options next month.
A number of the permanent spaces on the south parking lot will be taken out of service due to contruction.
Bill Richards is the chair of the Harbortown Center Committee and says they had a meeting of stakeholders yesterday morning to discuss the issue.
A number of suggestions have been made, including using the parking lot beside Hing's Restaurant,the Kenora Rec. Center, or the Mall Parking lot.
A report will be made to council with all the options next month.
Pickle Lake
A big boost for the community of Pickle Lake.
The federal government has announced three million dollarsfor a new community multi-plex.
The new building will house a court house, town offices, a communityhall, and a library.
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford says the facility will bring together municipal, provincial and federal offices all under one roof.
The total project cost is expected to top five million dollars.
The federal government has announced three million dollarsfor a new community multi-plex.
The new building will house a court house, town offices, a communityhall, and a library.
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford says the facility will bring together municipal, provincial and federal offices all under one roof.
The total project cost is expected to top five million dollars.
Hefty Fine
A Manitoba resident has been given a hefty fine for trying to smuggle contraband cigarettes in northwestern Ontario.
Carl Fontaine of For Alexander has been sentenced to six months injail and will have to pay almost 340 thousand dollars for possessing unmarked cigarettes for the purpose of sale.
Fontaine was pulled over last August near Marathon with over 900 thousand cigarettes in his possession.
In addtion to the fine, he also will have to pay an 84 thousand dollar surcharge to the Victim Justice Fund.
Carl Fontaine of For Alexander has been sentenced to six months injail and will have to pay almost 340 thousand dollars for possessing unmarked cigarettes for the purpose of sale.
Fontaine was pulled over last August near Marathon with over 900 thousand cigarettes in his possession.
In addtion to the fine, he also will have to pay an 84 thousand dollar surcharge to the Victim Justice Fund.
Harrasment Thunder Bay
A man who once ran for mayor in Thunder Bay is serving afour-month jail sentence for launching a ``campaign'' of harassment against a former girlfriend.
James Gamble was charged in 2007 with assault, criminalharassment, uttering threats, intimidation and failing to comply with bail conditions.
The charges followed complaints lodged by a 42-year-old woman.
In May, Gamble was acquitted on three charges, but found guiltyof criminal harassment and breach of a court order.
James Gamble was charged in 2007 with assault, criminalharassment, uttering threats, intimidation and failing to comply with bail conditions.
The charges followed complaints lodged by a 42-year-old woman.
In May, Gamble was acquitted on three charges, but found guiltyof criminal harassment and breach of a court order.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Tourism Marketing Ideas
The Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership is hoping to create a buzz on the internet about the wonders Northern Ontario has to offer.
The Corporation has launched a new on-line portal northernontario.travel, with pictures, testimonials and a calander of events.
Spokesperson Chris Milner says they also want to look outside the box to attract more tourists.
Milner says they have also formed great partnerships to promote the area and aligned with Mountain Co-Op across Canada and the Bass Pro Shop chain in Vaughn, Ontario.
The Corporation has launched a new on-line portal northernontario.travel, with pictures, testimonials and a calander of events.
Spokesperson Chris Milner says they also want to look outside the box to attract more tourists.
Milner says they have also formed great partnerships to promote the area and aligned with Mountain Co-Op across Canada and the Bass Pro Shop chain in Vaughn, Ontario.
Chamber of Commerce Responds to Council
The Kenora and District Chamber of Commerce says its more than willing to work with city council on initiatives that affect local business.
The chamber took time this week to clarify some recent comments it made about the relationship between the city and small business.
Thelma Wilkens-Page is past president of the chamber and says they feel they have a good working relationship with council, but want more input from their members on municipal issues that could affect them.
Wilkens-Page says its important that the chamber remains in close contact with council in order to find out what future initiatives could impact their members.
The chamber took time this week to clarify some recent comments it made about the relationship between the city and small business.
Thelma Wilkens-Page is past president of the chamber and says they feel they have a good working relationship with council, but want more input from their members on municipal issues that could affect them.
Wilkens-Page says its important that the chamber remains in close contact with council in order to find out what future initiatives could impact their members.
Council Endorse Jones Road Landfill
Despite the objections of some residents of Black Sturgeon Lake, Kenora City Council has decided to start shipping garbage to the Jones Road Landfill site.
Council voted unanimously last night to use the Silver Lake site for waste starting November 1st.
Dan Olscamp represents Black Sturgeon property owners and says he has concerns about the location of the municipal landfill.
Councillor Dave McCann defended council's decision.
He says the municipality can save almost 200 thousand dollars by taking city garbage to the Jones Road Landfill rather than Winnipeg.
Olscamp had asked council to defer its decision until it could hold a public meeting on the issue.
Council voted unanimously last night to use the Silver Lake site for waste starting November 1st.
Dan Olscamp represents Black Sturgeon property owners and says he has concerns about the location of the municipal landfill.
Councillor Dave McCann defended council's decision.
He says the municipality can save almost 200 thousand dollars by taking city garbage to the Jones Road Landfill rather than Winnipeg.
Olscamp had asked council to defer its decision until it could hold a public meeting on the issue.
NOACC Starts today in Fort
The fall meeting of the Northwestern Ontario Associated Chamber of Commerce will be hearing from several provincial government representatives.
The Minister of Revenue, Minister of Northern Development Mines and Forestry are expected to speak at the event.
Kenora Chamber President Dwayne Yaremko says it'll be good for the chambers from across the Northwest to catch up.
Deputy Minister Dave Lindsey and Kenora Property Developer John Gale are also possible speakers and have yet to confirm.
The Minister of Revenue, Minister of Northern Development Mines and Forestry are expected to speak at the event.
Kenora Chamber President Dwayne Yaremko says it'll be good for the chambers from across the Northwest to catch up.
Deputy Minister Dave Lindsey and Kenora Property Developer John Gale are also possible speakers and have yet to confirm.
Arson Project Kenora
The City of Kenora is going to be involved in a pilot project aimed at reducing arson incidents.
Fire Chief Warren Brinkman says they will be launching a campaignin the next couple weeks asking retailers to restrict the sale of matchesand lighters to youth under the age of 16.
Kenora is one of seven cities across Canada involved in the campaign.
Brinkman says millions of dollars in damage is done each year by kids playing with matches or setting fires.
Fire Chief Warren Brinkman says they will be launching a campaignin the next couple weeks asking retailers to restrict the sale of matchesand lighters to youth under the age of 16.
Kenora is one of seven cities across Canada involved in the campaign.
Brinkman says millions of dollars in damage is done each year by kids playing with matches or setting fires.
Market Northwestern Ontario
Look outside the box to capitalize on the resources we have here in Northwestern Ontario.
That message was delivered in Dryden by Berkeley Young, an American based specialist in Travel-Tourism research and marketing.
Young says visitors want to escape and don't want local issues impacting their visit.
He adds, instead of focusing on the usual markets, looking outside to markets in the Southern United States.
Young points out that Charlotte is growing 60 to 70-thousand people a year and is full of outdoor entusiasts who like to hunt and fish.
That message was delivered in Dryden by Berkeley Young, an American based specialist in Travel-Tourism research and marketing.
Young says visitors want to escape and don't want local issues impacting their visit.
He adds, instead of focusing on the usual markets, looking outside to markets in the Southern United States.
Young points out that Charlotte is growing 60 to 70-thousand people a year and is full of outdoor entusiasts who like to hunt and fish.
By Pass Accident
The driver of a semi-tractor trailor unit has been charged in connection with an accident that closed a section of the Kenora By-Pass for about six hours yesterday.
The OPP say the driver of an eastbound vehicle had to take action to avoid a head-on collision with a west-bound semi-tractor trailor unit.
The truck had crossed into the eastbound lane and side-swiped the passenger vehicle causing the driver to lose control.
The tractor trailor left the road and landed on its side in the ditch.
There were no serious injuries reported.
The truck driver has been charged with careless driving as a result of the collision.
The OPP say the driver of an eastbound vehicle had to take action to avoid a head-on collision with a west-bound semi-tractor trailor unit.
The truck had crossed into the eastbound lane and side-swiped the passenger vehicle causing the driver to lose control.
The tractor trailor left the road and landed on its side in the ditch.
There were no serious injuries reported.
The truck driver has been charged with careless driving as a result of the collision.
Government Tourism
The Assistant Deputy Minister for the Ministry of Tourism says the implementation of the Sorbara Report should take place in April 2010.
The Final Regional Tourism Strategy was released in February.
Michael Kurts says the Government is still working with industry stakeholders on establishing regions, boundaries and funding allocations.
Kurts adds they want one organization in place in each region to handle marketing and tourism issues and notes 40-million dollars has been allocated.
He says after speaking with groups across Ontario, they have determined that funding should be tied to the level of tourism activity in each area, but notes it should be sensitive to some areas that need assistance.
The Final Regional Tourism Strategy was released in February.
Michael Kurts says the Government is still working with industry stakeholders on establishing regions, boundaries and funding allocations.
Kurts adds they want one organization in place in each region to handle marketing and tourism issues and notes 40-million dollars has been allocated.
He says after speaking with groups across Ontario, they have determined that funding should be tied to the level of tourism activity in each area, but notes it should be sensitive to some areas that need assistance.
Lawyer Fined for being late
A Superior Court justice in Thunder Bay was so irritated by a lawyer's ``habitual lateness'' he decided to hit him in the pocketbook.
After lawyer Leon Nicol arrived late for two hearings last month on a trial matter, Justice Patrick Smith decided to fine him 250-dollars.
Smith noted that more than a warning was needed to get the message across that lawyers must be on time when court is scheduled to start.
Nicol said he was ``disappointed'' with the outcome, but immediately paid the fine.
After lawyer Leon Nicol arrived late for two hearings last month on a trial matter, Justice Patrick Smith decided to fine him 250-dollars.
Smith noted that more than a warning was needed to get the message across that lawyers must be on time when court is scheduled to start.
Nicol said he was ``disappointed'' with the outcome, but immediately paid the fine.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Platinex update
Junior mining company Platinex says it plans to talk to the province about accessing its mining claims near Big Trout Lake.
The company says it plans to enter into mediation with the province to discuss getting access to its mining claims near Big Trout Lake First Nation.
The talks are to begin this week.
Platinex has launched a 70-million-dollar lawsuit against the government, claiming it has lost millions of dollars because the province allegedly botched its duties toward the Northern First Nation.
The company says it plans to enter into mediation with the province to discuss getting access to its mining claims near Big Trout Lake First Nation.
The talks are to begin this week.
Platinex has launched a 70-million-dollar lawsuit against the government, claiming it has lost millions of dollars because the province allegedly botched its duties toward the Northern First Nation.
Tourism Forum
The Tourism industry will take centre stage the next couple of days as Dryden plays host to a marketing forum for tourism in Sunset Country.
The Session starts this morning at 10 o'clock at the Best Western.
Outfitters, camp owners, community leaders, chamber of commerce representatives, members of destination marketing organizations and government brass will also discuss ways to enhance the tourism sector in Northwestern Ontario.
Organizers say they want to make this the most productive gathering of tourism businesses ever in our area.
The Session starts this morning at 10 o'clock at the Best Western.
Outfitters, camp owners, community leaders, chamber of commerce representatives, members of destination marketing organizations and government brass will also discuss ways to enhance the tourism sector in Northwestern Ontario.
Organizers say they want to make this the most productive gathering of tourism businesses ever in our area.
House Party gone bad
A house party turned nasty over the weekend.
The OPP say they were called to a disturbance on Cambrian Drive early Sunday morning.
Police say an altercation broke out and a number of people had to be taken to Lake of the Woods
District Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.
Officers are continuing to canvas the area and are speaking to witnesses of the incident.
The OPP say they were called to a disturbance on Cambrian Drive early Sunday morning.
Police say an altercation broke out and a number of people had to be taken to Lake of the Woods
District Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.
Officers are continuing to canvas the area and are speaking to witnesses of the incident.
Vehicle Break-ins
The OPP say they are investigating a rash of thefts from vehicles.
Over the weekend a number of break-ins were reported.
In one instance, a care on Third Street South was entered and an i-pod, a cell phone and some jewellry were stolen.
Police say in every instance, the vehicles that were entered had not been locked.
Over the weekend a number of break-ins were reported.
In one instance, a care on Third Street South was entered and an i-pod, a cell phone and some jewellry were stolen.
Police say in every instance, the vehicles that were entered had not been locked.
Litterbugs fined
A couple of Kenora area residents have been fined over 12 hundred dollars for illegally dumping garbage.
The MNR says the duo went to the waste transfer station in Kenora to drop off a load of household garbage back in February.
The facility was closed by the time they got there, so they drove out to the Olson Road in Pellatt Township and threw five bags of garbage outalong a one kilometer stretch.
The bags either split open on impact or was spread about by birds.
Conservation officers were able to track down the culprits by talking to eyewitnesses and through evidence contained in the garbage.
The MNR says the duo went to the waste transfer station in Kenora to drop off a load of household garbage back in February.
The facility was closed by the time they got there, so they drove out to the Olson Road in Pellatt Township and threw five bags of garbage outalong a one kilometer stretch.
The bags either split open on impact or was spread about by birds.
Conservation officers were able to track down the culprits by talking to eyewitnesses and through evidence contained in the garbage.
New Transmission Lines
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.
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.
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.
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