The OPP say a hunter who had been reported missing earlier this week has been found safe and sound.
Police say the man, who had been hunting in the Minaki and Whitedog areas, was spotted by
officers driving into the city late yesterday afternoon.
The man was last seen Monday morning but finally made it back to his hotel room last night.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Kenora man fined
A Kenora resident has been fined two thousand dollars for illegally importing baitfish into Ontario.
Jerry Wiebe admitted in Kenora court this week to importing live baitfish from Manitoba and providing false information to the Ministry of Natural Resources.
The court heard that Wiebe used minnows that were trapped on a commercial baitfishing licence in Manitoba and used them to supply his commercial baitfish business in Ontario.
The MNR says importing baitfish from other jurisdictions poses a significant risk to local ecosystems and fisheries.
Jerry Wiebe admitted in Kenora court this week to importing live baitfish from Manitoba and providing false information to the Ministry of Natural Resources.
The court heard that Wiebe used minnows that were trapped on a commercial baitfishing licence in Manitoba and used them to supply his commercial baitfish business in Ontario.
The MNR says importing baitfish from other jurisdictions poses a significant risk to local ecosystems and fisheries.
Broncos Win NorWOSSA Gold
Beaver Brae's senior boys volleyball team has won NorWOSSA gold.
The Broncos had an easy time with the Dryden Eagles winning in straight sets by scores of
25-19, 25-17, and 25-20.
Beaver Brae will now move onto the NWOSSA finals next week against the top high school team from Thunder Bay.
The only other Bronco team involved in NorWOSSA final was the senior girls basketball team, which was doubled up 26-13 by Fort Frances in the gold medal game.
Meanwhile, in high school girls hockey action, the Thomas Aquinas Saintscruised to an 11-1 win over Sioux Lookout last night at the Thistle Rink.
The Broncos had an easy time with the Dryden Eagles winning in straight sets by scores of
25-19, 25-17, and 25-20.
Beaver Brae will now move onto the NWOSSA finals next week against the top high school team from Thunder Bay.
The only other Bronco team involved in NorWOSSA final was the senior girls basketball team, which was doubled up 26-13 by Fort Frances in the gold medal game.
Meanwhile, in high school girls hockey action, the Thomas Aquinas Saintscruised to an 11-1 win over Sioux Lookout last night at the Thistle Rink.
Search for Missing Hunter
The search is scheduled to resume this morning for a hunter who has been missing for the past four days in the Kenora area.
The OPP say the 50 year old man was believed to be hunting in the Minaki and Whitedog areas.
He was last seen on Monday morning around 7:00.
He was driving a late model, silver colored Chevy Pick-up truck with large silver front bumper with a winch on the front.
The truck also had a blue plywood homemade camper on the back.
The man is described as about five feet 6 inches tall and weighing 170 pounds.
Anyone who may know of his where-abouts is asked to contact the Kenora Detachment of the OPP.
The OPP say the 50 year old man was believed to be hunting in the Minaki and Whitedog areas.
He was last seen on Monday morning around 7:00.
He was driving a late model, silver colored Chevy Pick-up truck with large silver front bumper with a winch on the front.
The truck also had a blue plywood homemade camper on the back.
The man is described as about five feet 6 inches tall and weighing 170 pounds.
Anyone who may know of his where-abouts is asked to contact the Kenora Detachment of the OPP.
Pilot identified in Cat Lake plane crash
A 50 year old Dryden man has been identified as the pilot of a plane that crashed near the remote community of Cat Lake.
The crash took place last Friday and a post-mortem was conducted on Mike Pateman yesterday at Lake of the Woods District Hospital.
He was the pilot of a Lockhart Air Cessna 310 that went while en route from Sioux Lookout to Cat Lake.
His two passengers have been identified as 46 year old Ronald Oombash from Cat Lake and 29 year old Dean Meekis of the Deer Lake First Nation.
]The OPP say the investigation into the cause of the crash is continuing.
The crash took place last Friday and a post-mortem was conducted on Mike Pateman yesterday at Lake of the Woods District Hospital.
He was the pilot of a Lockhart Air Cessna 310 that went while en route from Sioux Lookout to Cat Lake.
His two passengers have been identified as 46 year old Ronald Oombash from Cat Lake and 29 year old Dean Meekis of the Deer Lake First Nation.
]The OPP say the investigation into the cause of the crash is continuing.
More tree seedlings to be planted
The provincial government is planning to plant an additional 13.5 million tree seedlings next year.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle says they will be spending six million dollars to have the seedlings planted in the spring.
Gravelle says the seedlings will be planted next spring and summer in areas damaged by fire and blowdowns.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle says they will be spending six million dollars to have the seedlings planted in the spring.
Gravelle says the seedlings will be planted next spring and summer in areas damaged by fire and blowdowns.
Drive Test strike drags on
People looking to get their driver's licence are not going to be behind the wheel any time soon.
Ontario's striking driver examiners, represented by the United Steelworkers, have rejected DriveTest's latest offer by 78 per cent.
Young Drivers of Canada Kenora Centre Director Maria Bagdonas says the strike is having an impact on local business.
Bagdonas adds its not fair that Southern Ontario has one Service Ontario office providing G1 tests while Northern Ontario is left out.
Ontario's striking driver examiners, represented by the United Steelworkers, have rejected DriveTest's latest offer by 78 per cent.
Young Drivers of Canada Kenora Centre Director Maria Bagdonas says the strike is having an impact on local business.
Bagdonas adds its not fair that Southern Ontario has one Service Ontario office providing G1 tests while Northern Ontario is left out.
Council seeks parking solutions
Kenora City Council is still trying to decide where people with monthly parking passes on the south parking lot can go when the big tent goes up again next summer.
Council has agreed the tent should go up at least one more summer on the Harborfront.
Councillor Chris Van Wallenghem says they are looking at a number of different options, including allowing parking along the south side of Lakeview Drive to McLeod Park.
Council has ruled out a couple of other options, including building a new parking lot on the north side of Lakeview Drive, because they are too expensive for a short term problem.
Council has agreed the tent should go up at least one more summer on the Harborfront.
Councillor Chris Van Wallenghem says they are looking at a number of different options, including allowing parking along the south side of Lakeview Drive to McLeod Park.
Council has ruled out a couple of other options, including building a new parking lot on the north side of Lakeview Drive, because they are too expensive for a short term problem.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Dryden New School
The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board should know by next month whether it will be able to proceed with a new elementary school in Dryden.
Superintendant of Business Dean Carrie says they have been meeting with the contractor who submitted the orginal tender to build the school to find areaswhere they can reduce costs.
He says if Ministry of Education approves the new costs for construction,then they will bring the
tender to trustees for approval at their December meeting.
The project would start in the spring at the earliest.
The board rejected the initially tender back in June because it came in well above the funding they had available for the project.
Superintendant of Business Dean Carrie says they have been meeting with the contractor who submitted the orginal tender to build the school to find areaswhere they can reduce costs.
He says if Ministry of Education approves the new costs for construction,then they will bring the
tender to trustees for approval at their December meeting.
The project would start in the spring at the earliest.
The board rejected the initially tender back in June because it came in well above the funding they had available for the project.
School Property sold to City
The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board says its willing to sell a small parcel of land to the City of Kenora for one dollar.
The city had requested a 30 meter wide strip of land to help develop an urban trail system in the area.
In order to sell the property however, the public school board had to declare the property surplus and now has to offer its to other agencies, before it can formallysell it to the city.
The property runs along side Laurenson's Creek and is just outside the fencing surroundingKing George School.
The city had requested a 30 meter wide strip of land to help develop an urban trail system in the area.
In order to sell the property however, the public school board had to declare the property surplus and now has to offer its to other agencies, before it can formallysell it to the city.
The property runs along side Laurenson's Creek and is just outside the fencing surroundingKing George School.
All Day Kindergarten
The Keewatin Patricia District School Board will swear in a new nativetrustee next month.
Mary Anne Katchemonia from Eagle Lake First Nation was the only personto submit an application for the position.
Chair of the public school board, Dave Penney says they sent letters toevery first nation that they have tuition agreements with, asking fornominations.
He adds that they did receive two nominations that came after theirdeadline, so trustees agreed to appoint the Eagle Lake resident to theboard.
Mary Anne Katchemonia from Eagle Lake First Nation was the only personto submit an application for the position.
Chair of the public school board, Dave Penney says they sent letters toevery first nation that they have tuition agreements with, asking fornominations.
He adds that they did receive two nominations that came after theirdeadline, so trustees agreed to appoint the Eagle Lake resident to theboard.
Snowmobile Registration
The City of Kenora's snowmobile and ATV committee is asking for council's support for proposed changes to the provincial trail permit system.
The committee wants the Ministry of Transportation to introduce snowmobile registration fees for District 17 of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs.
Councillor Wendy Cuthbert says the fees would do away with the trail permitting system.
The registration fees would be forwarded to the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs to be dispersed among District 17 snowmobile clubs to cover the cost of maintaining trails.
District 17 includes the communities of Kashabowie west to Thunder Bay and the Manitoba Border.
The committee wants the Ministry of Transportation to introduce snowmobile registration fees for District 17 of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs.
Councillor Wendy Cuthbert says the fees would do away with the trail permitting system.
The registration fees would be forwarded to the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs to be dispersed among District 17 snowmobile clubs to cover the cost of maintaining trails.
District 17 includes the communities of Kashabowie west to Thunder Bay and the Manitoba Border.
CAO Job Posting
The City of Kenora will soon have a vacancy for its Chief Administrative Officer.
Bill Presentanz has announced to council that he plans to step down next year.
Presentanz says he wanted to give the city lots of time to find a good replacement.
Presentanz is planning to retire before the new council is sworn in next fall.
He says they will post the job sometime before Christmas and hope to hire someone by next August.
Bill Presentanz has announced to council that he plans to step down next year.
Presentanz says he wanted to give the city lots of time to find a good replacement.
Presentanz is planning to retire before the new council is sworn in next fall.
He says they will post the job sometime before Christmas and hope to hire someone by next August.
Funding for Police Stations
Five remote communities in the Kenora Riding will be getting new police detachments thanks to a 20 million dollar announcement from the federal and provincial levels of government.
Cat Lake, Kasabonika, Wunnimun Lake, Pikangikum and Webequie will get anywhere from 1.3 to four million dollars for new construction.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle says the announcement comes as a result of recommendations into a coronor's inquest into the death of two inmates on the Kashechewan First Nation.
A total of 12 communities will receive funding for new police detachments,including seven served by the Nishinabe-Aski Police Service.
Cat Lake, Kasabonika, Wunnimun Lake, Pikangikum and Webequie will get anywhere from 1.3 to four million dollars for new construction.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle says the announcement comes as a result of recommendations into a coronor's inquest into the death of two inmates on the Kashechewan First Nation.
A total of 12 communities will receive funding for new police detachments,including seven served by the Nishinabe-Aski Police Service.
Jack Pine Budworm Infestation
The Ministry of Natural Resources says a jackpine budworm infestation inthe Kenora and Rainy River Districts over the past few years could pose a severe forest fire hazard in the next few years.
The MNR says in some areas, 90 to 100 percent of the jack pines have been killed off and are becoming an issue for fire crews.
Wildlife biologist, Scott Lockhart says the Auleneau Peninsula in Lake ofthe Woods has been particularly hard hit.
The MNR has been meeting with local municipalities to make them aware of the potential fire hazard and how they might need to respond if a major forest fire broke out in the region.
The MNR says in some areas, 90 to 100 percent of the jack pines have been killed off and are becoming an issue for fire crews.
Wildlife biologist, Scott Lockhart says the Auleneau Peninsula in Lake ofthe Woods has been particularly hard hit.
The MNR has been meeting with local municipalities to make them aware of the potential fire hazard and how they might need to respond if a major forest fire broke out in the region.
Rafferty on HST
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty says there's still time to stop the harmonization of the provincial sales tax with the GST in Ontario.
Rafferty says it can be halted in the House of
Commons.
Rafferty says he's planning to tour the province in the new year as part of a campaign against the HST.
Rafferty says it can be halted in the House of
Commons.
Rafferty says he's planning to tour the province in the new year as part of a campaign against the HST.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Holiday Train
Canadian Pacific's brightly decorated Holiday Train returns to Northwestern Ontario in early December.
The CP Holiday Train will be rolling into Ignace, Dryden and Kenora on Saturday, December 5th.
This year's entertainment includes alternative rock band The Odds and blues-rocker Shaun Verreault.
The holiday train raises food, money and awareness for food banks across Canada and the United States.
The CP Holiday Train will be rolling into Ignace, Dryden and Kenora on Saturday, December 5th.
This year's entertainment includes alternative rock band The Odds and blues-rocker Shaun Verreault.
The holiday train raises food, money and awareness for food banks across Canada and the United States.
Mega Precious Metals
Drilling is underway at a Red Lake area mining property owned by Mega Precious Metals.
Several 3-thousand meter drill holes will test prospective zones adjacent to Goldcorp’s High Grade Gold Zone in the Red Lake gold camp.
The Headway gold property is located adjacent to Hwy 125, between the towns of Red Lake and Balmertown.
Several 3-thousand meter drill holes will test prospective zones adjacent to Goldcorp’s High Grade Gold Zone in the Red Lake gold camp.
The Headway gold property is located adjacent to Hwy 125, between the towns of Red Lake and Balmertown.
Canadian Arrow Mining
Canadian Arrow mines is continuing work on its Northwestern Ontario nickle property.
The Sudbury based company has started a diamond drilling program on its high priority Turtlepond area nickel-copper projects located 40 km south of Dryden.
The project consists of 2-thousand 5-hundred metres of drilling over six priority targets.
The Turtlepond area consists of three previously under-explored historic nickel-copper occurrences.
The Sudbury based company has started a diamond drilling program on its high priority Turtlepond area nickel-copper projects located 40 km south of Dryden.
The project consists of 2-thousand 5-hundred metres of drilling over six priority targets.
The Turtlepond area consists of three previously under-explored historic nickel-copper occurrences.
Fatal Crash Sunday
A 34-year-old man from Thunder Bay is dead following a collision last night on Highway 11, east of Hearst.
OPP say just after 9 o'clock, the driver of a pick-up truck heading east crossed the centre line and hit a tractor-trailer head on.
Todd Ketchabaw was pronounced dead at the scene.Police say road conditions were dry and clear at the time.
OPP say just after 9 o'clock, the driver of a pick-up truck heading east crossed the centre line and hit a tractor-trailer head on.
Todd Ketchabaw was pronounced dead at the scene.Police say road conditions were dry and clear at the time.
Homocide Pickle Lake
Pickle Lake OPP and Nishnawbe-Aski Police are looking for a suspect in a fatal stabbing in New Osnaburgh First Nation.
Officers arrived to the First Nation Sunday to find community members attempting to resuscitate an 18-year-old girl who was lying in the street.
Attempts failed and she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police are looking for leads in the case.
The name of the victim is being withheld at this time.
Officers arrived to the First Nation Sunday to find community members attempting to resuscitate an 18-year-old girl who was lying in the street.
Attempts failed and she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police are looking for leads in the case.
The name of the victim is being withheld at this time.
Suspended Drivers
Two people who didn't belong on the road have been charged by Dryden OPP.
Officers stopped a speeding vehicle on Highway 72 near Dinorwic and found that 54-year-old Elizabeth Keesick of Thunder Bay was a suspended driver.
OPP also stopped a vehicle on Highway 17 east of Dryden and an investigation revealed 21-year-old David Valkenburgh of Calgary was a suspended driver in Ontario.
Police seized the licence of both drivers.
Officers stopped a speeding vehicle on Highway 72 near Dinorwic and found that 54-year-old Elizabeth Keesick of Thunder Bay was a suspended driver.
OPP also stopped a vehicle on Highway 17 east of Dryden and an investigation revealed 21-year-old David Valkenburgh of Calgary was a suspended driver in Ontario.
Police seized the licence of both drivers.
DSSAB Levy
Municipalities in the Kenora District are being asked to cough up an extra 10 percent to cover social service costs this year.
The Kenora District Services Board has sent out a letter requesting the increase in levy.
Rory McMillan is chair of the district services board and says there are a couple of reasons for
the increase, including increased demand forOntario Works benefits.
McMillan says the recession is likely to blame for the increase in Ontario Works benefits.
The City of Kenora is being asked to contribute an extra 217 thousand dollars this year.
The Kenora District Services Board has sent out a letter requesting the increase in levy.
Rory McMillan is chair of the district services board and says there are a couple of reasons for
the increase, including increased demand forOntario Works benefits.
McMillan says the recession is likely to blame for the increase in Ontario Works benefits.
The City of Kenora is being asked to contribute an extra 217 thousand dollars this year.
Plane Crash near Cat Lake First Nation
The Cat Lake First Nation in Northwestern Ontario is in mourning.
Two residents who ran the band's youth program were killed in a plane crash Friday night along with an experienced pilot from Lockhart Air Services.
The Cat Lake band's search co-ordinator Russell Wesley says Ronald Ombash and Dean Meekis both died in the crash.
Wesley says witnesses reported that the pilot aborted a landing at the Cat Lake airport and then crashed soon after.
OPP and the Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash.
The former owner of Lockhart Air Services says the pilot had been flying for 25 years, and the crash makes no sense.
The pilot is believed to be from Dryden but OPP have not released any of the names.
Two residents who ran the band's youth program were killed in a plane crash Friday night along with an experienced pilot from Lockhart Air Services.
The Cat Lake band's search co-ordinator Russell Wesley says Ronald Ombash and Dean Meekis both died in the crash.
Wesley says witnesses reported that the pilot aborted a landing at the Cat Lake airport and then crashed soon after.
OPP and the Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash.
The former owner of Lockhart Air Services says the pilot had been flying for 25 years, and the crash makes no sense.
The pilot is believed to be from Dryden but OPP have not released any of the names.
Remembrance Day
Remembrance Day Ceremonies are scheduled for this Wednesday.
Redditt, Kenora and Keewatin Legions will start theirs at 10:30.
The Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario Command of Royal Canadian Legions Past President Roland Fissette says they're creating a history book about the legions in the region.
Anyone who has stories to tell about their service time with the military and their involvement in the legion is asked to submit them by March 31st, 2010.
For more information contact your local legion.
Redditt, Kenora and Keewatin Legions will start theirs at 10:30.
The Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario Command of Royal Canadian Legions Past President Roland Fissette says they're creating a history book about the legions in the region.
Anyone who has stories to tell about their service time with the military and their involvement in the legion is asked to submit them by March 31st, 2010.
For more information contact your local legion.
Of Love and War
You only have a couple of days left to check out the Lake of the Woods Museum's "Of Love and War" exhibit.
The stories of 10 Kenora war brides are on display through a variety of mediums.
Curator Lori Nelson says the exhibit will continue to run after Remembrance Day.
The last day to see the exhibit is this Saturday.
The stories of 10 Kenora war brides are on display through a variety of mediums.
Curator Lori Nelson says the exhibit will continue to run after Remembrance Day.
The last day to see the exhibit is this Saturday.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Kenora Thistles Weekend Results
It was a rough weekend on the road for the Kenora Triple "a" midget Thistles.
Friday night, Kenora was shut out 11-0 by the East Division leading Winnipeg Wild.
On Sunday, the Eastman Selects beat the Thistles 9-1.
The midgets will hope home ice will help them find the win column again when they play a
double header against Central Plains this weekend.
Friday night, Kenora was shut out 11-0 by the East Division leading Winnipeg Wild.
On Sunday, the Eastman Selects beat the Thistles 9-1.
The midgets will hope home ice will help them find the win column again when they play a
double header against Central Plains this weekend.
J and M Judo Club
Luke Heatherington earned himself a gold medal this past weekend competing in Ontario's
largest annual tournament held at RMC Kingston.
The 2009 Ontario Open attracted 600 competitors from across Canada & the USA.
Luke went 4&0 on the day to win his U17, under 66kg division.
Luke's team mate Ben Dennis also made the trip finishing 5th on the day.
J&M will travel to Winnipeg this upcoming weekend to compete in the annual St Bonniface Judo tournament.
largest annual tournament held at RMC Kingston.
The 2009 Ontario Open attracted 600 competitors from across Canada & the USA.
Luke went 4&0 on the day to win his U17, under 66kg division.
Luke's team mate Ben Dennis also made the trip finishing 5th on the day.
J&M will travel to Winnipeg this upcoming weekend to compete in the annual St Bonniface Judo tournament.
Kenora Woman Assaulted
Kenora OPP are asking for the public's assistance after a womn was assaulted on the harbourfront.
Police says a woman walking her dog around 9 pm last Tuesday near the roundabout was attacked.
The woman was grabbed from behind and pushed to ground.
The assailant ran away when she screamed and the police were called.
The victim did not sustain any physical injuries.
Police are requesting the public's assistance to help identify her attacker.
The suspect is described as a First Nation's teen, with shoulder length hair, a thin build and standing at 5'7 to 5'9.
He was wearing a black sweatshirt and black cotton pants at the time.
If anyone has information they are asked to contact the OPP at 548-5534 or Crimestoppers.
Police says a woman walking her dog around 9 pm last Tuesday near the roundabout was attacked.
The woman was grabbed from behind and pushed to ground.
The assailant ran away when she screamed and the police were called.
The victim did not sustain any physical injuries.
Police are requesting the public's assistance to help identify her attacker.
The suspect is described as a First Nation's teen, with shoulder length hair, a thin build and standing at 5'7 to 5'9.
He was wearing a black sweatshirt and black cotton pants at the time.
If anyone has information they are asked to contact the OPP at 548-5534 or Crimestoppers.
Whitefish Bay Immunization Clinics
Whitefish Bay First Nation Chief Warren White is pleased with the turn out to his communities most recent flu shot clinic.
Almost all of the community attended and received their H1N1 flu shot.
White says he also commends the Assembly of First Nation Chief Shawn Atleo for attending
their Public Health Day celebrations.
White says they received 400 doses of the vaccine and they expect to receive more to cover the rest of the community.
Almost all of the community attended and received their H1N1 flu shot.
White says he also commends the Assembly of First Nation Chief Shawn Atleo for attending
their Public Health Day celebrations.
White says they received 400 doses of the vaccine and they expect to receive more to cover the rest of the community.
Missing wood
Dryden OPP are looking for the person responsible for stealing timber from Crown land.
Police say the timber was removed from the April Lake Road area, north of Vemilion Bay.
The wood is believed to have been taken around October 14th.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dryden OPP or Crimestoppers.
Police say the timber was removed from the April Lake Road area, north of Vemilion Bay.
The wood is believed to have been taken around October 14th.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dryden OPP or Crimestoppers.
Plane Crash near Cat Lake First Nation
3-people have been killed in a plane crash about 20-kilometres from Cat Lake First Nation.
An official at CFB Trenton says the wreckage was spotted by the crew of a Hercules airplane from the base on Sunday evening.
Search and rescue technicians jumped from a Griffon Helicopter to the scene.
The Lockhart Air Service charter plane with 3-people aboard left Sioux Lookout for Cat Lake on Friday.
The plane was reported overdue late that evening and a search was launched.
No word yet on the identities of the victims.
An official at CFB Trenton says the wreckage was spotted by the crew of a Hercules airplane from the base on Sunday evening.
Search and rescue technicians jumped from a Griffon Helicopter to the scene.
The Lockhart Air Service charter plane with 3-people aboard left Sioux Lookout for Cat Lake on Friday.
The plane was reported overdue late that evening and a search was launched.
No word yet on the identities of the victims.
Good Weather Coming
Good news for people who hate the cold, but not good news for skiiers and snowmobilers.
Environment Canada has come out with its three month forecast and it calls for both warmer and drier than normal conditions.
Climatologist Geoff Coulson says as an added bonus the balmy weather we have been experiencing should stick around a little longer.
Coulson says they will be adjusting their winter forecast once again at the beginning of December.
Environment Canada has come out with its three month forecast and it calls for both warmer and drier than normal conditions.
Climatologist Geoff Coulson says as an added bonus the balmy weather we have been experiencing should stick around a little longer.
Coulson says they will be adjusting their winter forecast once again at the beginning of December.
Rafferty supports scrapping long gun registry
Northwestern Ontario New Democrats want the law repealed, but there leader says his party will defend the long run registry when it reaches the committee level.
M-P's John Rafferty and Bruce Hyer were among opposition members who supported a Conservative private members bill Wednesday.
Rafferty says despite Jack Layton's views, he'll still listen to his members.
Rafferty says opposition support for the bills is a realization that most Canadians want the gun registry abolished.
M-P's John Rafferty and Bruce Hyer were among opposition members who supported a Conservative private members bill Wednesday.
Rafferty says despite Jack Layton's views, he'll still listen to his members.
Rafferty says opposition support for the bills is a realization that most Canadians want the gun registry abolished.
Whitefish Bay Public Health Day
The Chief of the Dhalles First Nation heralded an aboriginal made health care system for area first nations.
Lorraine Cobiness spoke at the Kenora Chiefs Council's first ever public health day, and told participants that health care starts in the community.
Cobiness notes the health care system should incorporate elders, traditional medicine and how to maintain healthy lifestyles.
Lorraine Cobiness spoke at the Kenora Chiefs Council's first ever public health day, and told participants that health care starts in the community.
Cobiness notes the health care system should incorporate elders, traditional medicine and how to maintain healthy lifestyles.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Headwaters Groundbreaking
Qualico has broken ground on its Headwaters condominium project on Tunnel Island.A ribbon cutting ceremony was held this morning with company and city officials on hand.
Barry Hedgecock is heading up the project for Qualico and says they have sold enough units to begin construction, and isn't worried about the lack of sales so far.
The first building, which will have 10 condo units is slated to be completed by next summer.
About 90 units in all are expected to be built over the next four to five years.
Houston Lake Mining Update
Houston Lake Mining is pleased with its recent results from its Dubenski property.
President and C.E.O. Grayme Anthony says the results have exceeded their expectations and increased the indicated mineral reosource by 84 percent.
Anthony adds that since the gold resource is near surface, they've only just started to reveal the real potential at the Dubenski property.
The property is considering a second drilling program on the property.
President and C.E.O. Grayme Anthony says the results have exceeded their expectations and increased the indicated mineral reosource by 84 percent.
Anthony adds that since the gold resource is near surface, they've only just started to reveal the real potential at the Dubenski property.
The property is considering a second drilling program on the property.
United Reef Limited
United Reef Limited is buying five mining claims in the Kenora Mining District.
The claims take up 435 acres of land and are located 45 kms south east of Dryden.
The Santa Maria Project lies within the Eagle-Wabigoon-Manitou Lakes Greenstone Belt, and has gold and quartz properties.
Inititial work on the property is expected to continue into the coming months.
The claims take up 435 acres of land and are located 45 kms south east of Dryden.
The Santa Maria Project lies within the Eagle-Wabigoon-Manitou Lakes Greenstone Belt, and has gold and quartz properties.
Inititial work on the property is expected to continue into the coming months.
Royal Agricultural Fair
Northern Ontario will have a strong presence at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto.
The annual event, now in its 87th year, showcases Canada's agricultural industry.
CEO Bill Bill Duron says the fair has led to some success for northern Ontario producers who attend.
The fair opens Friday and runs through to the middle of the month.
The annual event, now in its 87th year, showcases Canada's agricultural industry.
CEO Bill Bill Duron says the fair has led to some success for northern Ontario producers who attend.
The fair opens Friday and runs through to the middle of the month.
Royal Agricultural Fair
Northern Ontario will have a strong presence at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto.
The annual event, now in its 87th year, showcases Canada's agricultural industry.
CEO Bill Bill Duron says the fair has led to some success for northern Ontario producers who attend.
The fair opens Friday and runs through to the middle of the month.
The annual event, now in its 87th year, showcases Canada's agricultural industry.
CEO Bill Bill Duron says the fair has led to some success for northern Ontario producers who attend.
The fair opens Friday and runs through to the middle of the month.
Dryden Theft Ring
Three people face charges after Dryden Police broke up an internal theft ring.
Officers arrested the trio after searching a Highway 502 home and a Boyd Road residence.
Police recovered more then 12-thousand dollars worth of merchandise stolen from a local business.
20-year-old James Anthony Shearer and 18-year-old Geoffery Shearer have been charged with possession of stolen property, theft over 5-thousand dollars and posession of property obtained by crime.
28-year-old Adrian Piche has been charged with possession of stolen property.
Most of the goods were taken from a local store where Geoffery was employed.
Officers arrested the trio after searching a Highway 502 home and a Boyd Road residence.
Police recovered more then 12-thousand dollars worth of merchandise stolen from a local business.
20-year-old James Anthony Shearer and 18-year-old Geoffery Shearer have been charged with possession of stolen property, theft over 5-thousand dollars and posession of property obtained by crime.
28-year-old Adrian Piche has been charged with possession of stolen property.
Most of the goods were taken from a local store where Geoffery was employed.
Northwestern Ontario Agriculture Study
A new study on agriculture in northwestern Ontario shows the industry in the Rainy River district is strong.
The study reports the industry generated more than 13-million dollars in agri-related business in the district and created over 300 jobs in 2008.
Author Don Murray says the Rainy River district also showed an increase in the amount of land used for farming over the past forty years.
Murray says the presence of a research station and new abatoir bode well for the future of agriculture in the district.
The study reports the industry generated more than 13-million dollars in agri-related business in the district and created over 300 jobs in 2008.
Author Don Murray says the Rainy River district also showed an increase in the amount of land used for farming over the past forty years.
Murray says the presence of a research station and new abatoir bode well for the future of agriculture in the district.
Hampton on Buchanan
Criticism in the legislature yesterday over the lack of severance pay given to employees with the Buchanan Group of Companies.
Kenora-Rainy River NDP MPP Howard Hampton told the house while the forest company received millions of dollars from the government, none of it went to laid-off workers.
Forestry Minister Michael Gravelle did not say if the government would force the company to comply with provincial laws, but say it is working with those impacted.
Kenora-Rainy River NDP MPP Howard Hampton told the house while the forest company received millions of dollars from the government, none of it went to laid-off workers.
Forestry Minister Michael Gravelle did not say if the government would force the company to comply with provincial laws, but say it is working with those impacted.
Long Gun Registry Rickford
A private members bill calling for the repeal of the federal long gun registry has crossed another hurdle.
Members of Parliament voted in favour of scrapping the legislation this week.
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford says was good to see members of otherparties vote in favour of the Conservative motion.
Rickford says the bill still has to go before a parliamentary committeefor review and possible revision, before its goes to a third and finalvote.
Members of Parliament voted in favour of scrapping the legislation this week.
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford says was good to see members of otherparties vote in favour of the Conservative motion.
Rickford says the bill still has to go before a parliamentary committeefor review and possible revision, before its goes to a third and finalvote.
AFN Chief Visits Whitefish Bay
Assembly of First Nations Chief Shawn Atleo was impressed with his visit to the Treaty Three Community of Whitefish Bay.
Atleo was in the first nation yesterday for the Kenora Chiefs Advisory's first Public Health Day.
The new National Chief says he was pleased to see the preparedness and cooperation in the first nation community.
Atleo also unveilled the AFN's Influenza Surveillance Guide for all first nation communities across Canada.
The plan includes a checklist for schools, and helps teachers keep track of students showing signs of influenza.
Hospital Surplus
A good turn around for Lake of the Woods District Hospital financially.
The hospital is reporting a surplus of 484 thousand dollars in the first six months of the 2009/2010 fiscal year.
Chief Executive Officer Marc Belcaen believes the surplus isa credit to their staff rather than a third party review conducted last year.
At this point last year, the hospital had a modest surplus of 412 thousand dollars.
The hospital is reporting a surplus of 484 thousand dollars in the first six months of the 2009/2010 fiscal year.
Chief Executive Officer Marc Belcaen believes the surplus isa credit to their staff rather than a third party review conducted last year.
At this point last year, the hospital had a modest surplus of 412 thousand dollars.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Kenora Waterline Construction
Construction of a new submarine waterline between Kenora and Norman has been completed.
Work began late this summer and wrapped up recently.
Operations manager Rick Perchuck says employees of Galcon Marine are still on site mapping the current location of the waterline on the lake bed.
He adds that the two million dollar submarine water line is in use and carrying water to Tunnel Island, Norman and Keewatin.
Work began late this summer and wrapped up recently.
Operations manager Rick Perchuck says employees of Galcon Marine are still on site mapping the current location of the waterline on the lake bed.
He adds that the two million dollar submarine water line is in use and carrying water to Tunnel Island, Norman and Keewatin.
AFN Chief Visits NWO
The new national chief of the Assembly of First Nations will be paying his first visit to theTreaty Three area today.
Shawn Atleo is scheduled to spend a couple of hours on the Whitefish Bay First Nation.
He'll tour the community with Chief Warren White and take part in Public Health Day Activities.
Atleo will also attend a public vaccination clinic and a noon-hour feast.
Atleo was elected national chief this summer.
Shawn Atleo is scheduled to spend a couple of hours on the Whitefish Bay First Nation.
He'll tour the community with Chief Warren White and take part in Public Health Day Activities.
Atleo will also attend a public vaccination clinic and a noon-hour feast.
Atleo was elected national chief this summer.
RCMP Drug Seizure
The RCMP in eastern Manitoba say they have seized about 700 marijuana plants with a street value of about 700 thousand dollars.
Police raided a former business last Friday in the tiny community of Elma, which is about 60 kilometers northwest of Falcon Lake.
Sergeant Glen Reitlo said a prior grow-op investigation at a property in the rural municipality of Lac du Bonnet in September led police to raid the Elma location.
RCMP said two men were arrested in connection with the most recent seizure.
Police raided a former business last Friday in the tiny community of Elma, which is about 60 kilometers northwest of Falcon Lake.
Sergeant Glen Reitlo said a prior grow-op investigation at a property in the rural municipality of Lac du Bonnet in September led police to raid the Elma location.
RCMP said two men were arrested in connection with the most recent seizure.
Flu Clinics Kenora
Residents in the Kenora-Rainy River area seem to be heeding the advice of local health officials in getting their H-1-N-1 flu shot.
Director of Health Protection for the Northwestern Health Unit Arlene Lesenke says numbers for the first week alone exceeded expectations.
Lasinski says there have been some changes to its flu clinic schedule with local offices offering additional clinics as required.
A flu clinic is being held today and tomorrow at the Kenora Rec. Centre.
Director of Health Protection for the Northwestern Health Unit Arlene Lesenke says numbers for the first week alone exceeded expectations.
Lasinski says there have been some changes to its flu clinic schedule with local offices offering additional clinics as required.
A flu clinic is being held today and tomorrow at the Kenora Rec. Centre.
Failing Plant Minnesota
A failing sewage treatment plant in Williams, Minnesota is threatening to dump thousands of gallons of raw sewage into Lake of the Woods.
The treatment plant is only nine years old, but city officials says they can't afford the one-point-million dollars needed to fix a tank holding the raw sewage which is heavily corroded and has
started to leak
The city contends faulty material is to blame while the engineering firm that designed the plant believes chemicals being added by the city of two-hundred to the treatment process is contributing to the corrosion.
The treatment plant is only nine years old, but city officials says they can't afford the one-point-million dollars needed to fix a tank holding the raw sewage which is heavily corroded and has
started to leak
The city contends faulty material is to blame while the engineering firm that designed the plant believes chemicals being added by the city of two-hundred to the treatment process is contributing to the corrosion.
Adoption Month
November is Adoption Awareness Month in Ontario, and Kenora-Patricia Family Services says its in need of more parents interested in adopting a child.
Marge Matheson is a spokesperson for the local Children's Aid society and says they provide training and support for people who might want to adopt.
Matheson says there are currently 20 children that are wards of the crown that are in need of adoption.
Marge Matheson is a spokesperson for the local Children's Aid society and says they provide training and support for people who might want to adopt.
Matheson says there are currently 20 children that are wards of the crown that are in need of adoption.
Rainbow Health Ontario
David Belrose has been appointed as Northwestern Ontario's representative for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered group Rainbow Health Ontario.
Belrose says they want to raise awareness in the region that there is a LBGT community.
The Rainbow Health Ontario group wants to improve health care services for the LBGT community.
Belrose says they want to raise awareness in the region that there is a LBGT community.
The Rainbow Health Ontario group wants to improve health care services for the LBGT community.
Kenora Landfill Compactor
It could be a few more weeks before the City of Kenora can begin hauling municipal waste out to the Jones Road Landfill site.
Council approved the purchase of a Caterpillar landfill compactor at a meeting Wednesday afternoon.
Councillor Dave McCann says they need the machinery before they can start sending garbage out to the landfill site.
The landfill compactor will cost about 238 thousand dollars, and the city is spending another 87 thousand dollars to construct a building to house the equipment.
Council approved the purchase of a Caterpillar landfill compactor at a meeting Wednesday afternoon.
Councillor Dave McCann says they need the machinery before they can start sending garbage out to the landfill site.
The landfill compactor will cost about 238 thousand dollars, and the city is spending another 87 thousand dollars to construct a building to house the equipment.
Long Gun Registry Repeal
The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters is applauding a vote in the House ofCommons to repeal the Federal Long Gun Registry.
Second reading of a private members bill was passed yesterday afternoon.
Greg Ferrant is a spokesperson for the OFAH and says while they won the battle, they haven't won the war yet.
The bill still has to go before a commons committee for review, but Ferrant says the legislations seems to have some momentum now.
Second reading of a private members bill was passed yesterday afternoon.
Greg Ferrant is a spokesperson for the OFAH and says while they won the battle, they haven't won the war yet.
The bill still has to go before a commons committee for review, but Ferrant says the legislations seems to have some momentum now.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Mavis Lake Mining
TNR Gold Corp. and International Lithium Gold Corp. are teaming up to work on a Dryden area mining property.
The duo are staking the Mavis Lake rare metals property located 15 km northeast of Dryden.
The company accquired more claims because of high grades of lithium found on the property.
Further work is expected to take place in the coming months.
The duo are staking the Mavis Lake rare metals property located 15 km northeast of Dryden.
The company accquired more claims because of high grades of lithium found on the property.
Further work is expected to take place in the coming months.
Nuisance Bears Fort
Animal control officials in Fort Frances say it appears the bears are heading into their dens to hibernate for the winter.
Animal control officer Arlene Byrnes says only 32 nuisance bears have been reported since June.
She says the most recent report was on October 18th, meaning the nuisance bear season is winding down.
But residents are being urged not to leave garbage out that could attract bears.
Animal control officer Arlene Byrnes says only 32 nuisance bears have been reported since June.
She says the most recent report was on October 18th, meaning the nuisance bear season is winding down.
But residents are being urged not to leave garbage out that could attract bears.
Terrace Bay Speeding
Many Terrace Bay residents say they get the willies trying to cross the town's main drag, which happens to be the Trans-Canada Highway.
In the last few months, police have stopped more than a few vehicles travelling at nearly double the in-town speed limit of 60-kilometres an hour.
The latest incident occurred Sunday morning when police clocked a car at 110 kilometres an hour.
Mayor Mike King says Terrace Bay is just a little town, but that doesn't give people the right to mow down residents.
In the last few months, police have stopped more than a few vehicles travelling at nearly double the in-town speed limit of 60-kilometres an hour.
The latest incident occurred Sunday morning when police clocked a car at 110 kilometres an hour.
Mayor Mike King says Terrace Bay is just a little town, but that doesn't give people the right to mow down residents.
Thunder Bay Stolen Plane
A 31-year-old Canadian man has been sentenced to 2-years in federal prison for stealing a plane in Thunder Bay and flying over 3-states before landing along a dark southern Missouri highway.
Adam Leon had admitted in August to all federal charges he'd faced; interstate transportation of a stolen aircraft, importation of a stolen aircraft and illegal entry.
He told the court he suffered from depression.
Adam Leon had admitted in August to all federal charges he'd faced; interstate transportation of a stolen aircraft, importation of a stolen aircraft and illegal entry.
He told the court he suffered from depression.
Gun Registry
A Conservative M-P from Manitoba says she's a dozen votes away from having the support she needs to kill the long-gun registry.
Candice Hoeppner believes she has secured commitments from 12 opposition M-P's to put the minority Tory government over the top and send the legislation to third reading.
It comes to a vote in the Commons later today.
The bill seeks to gut the decade-old registry and destroy existing data within the system on about seven- million shotguns and rifles.
Candice Hoeppner believes she has secured commitments from 12 opposition M-P's to put the minority Tory government over the top and send the legislation to third reading.
It comes to a vote in the Commons later today.
The bill seeks to gut the decade-old registry and destroy existing data within the system on about seven- million shotguns and rifles.
Beaver Brae Court Sports Results
The Beaver Brae Bronco's hosted the Dryden Eagles yesterday in court sports action.
Dryden's Senior Girls Basketball team beat the Broncos 34 to 31.
The Eagle's Junior Girls team defeated the Bronco's 45 to 27.
In Senior Boys Volleyball...
Beaver Brae beat Dryden 3-nothing
In Junior Boys Volleyball...
The Eagles beat Beaver Brae 3 nothing.
Dryden's Senior Girls Basketball team beat the Broncos 34 to 31.
The Eagle's Junior Girls team defeated the Bronco's 45 to 27.
In Senior Boys Volleyball...
Beaver Brae beat Dryden 3-nothing
In Junior Boys Volleyball...
The Eagles beat Beaver Brae 3 nothing.
Kenora SIJHL Player
Colton Kennedy of the Fort Frances Lakers is the SIJHL Player of the Month for October.
The Kenora native scored 9-goals and added 9-helpers in 9-games last month.
Kennedy currently leads the Lakers in all offensive categories.
Meantime, the National Junior Rankings have been released with only 1 SIJHL team in the top 20.
The Fort William North Stars dropped 4-spots, to sit in 18th place in the Nation.Kingston maintained their number one position.
The Kenora native scored 9-goals and added 9-helpers in 9-games last month.
Kennedy currently leads the Lakers in all offensive categories.
Meantime, the National Junior Rankings have been released with only 1 SIJHL team in the top 20.
The Fort William North Stars dropped 4-spots, to sit in 18th place in the Nation.Kingston maintained their number one position.
Abitibi Pensions
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union will be holding a couple of meetings in Kenora and Fort Frances next week to update former and present AbitibiBowater employees about talks to protect their pensions.
On Monday, members of the CEP met with Ontario's forestries minister, Michael Gravelle about protecting their pensions.
Kim Ginter says they want to update their membership on how talks with AbitibiBowater and provincial governments have been going.
The Kenora meeting will take place at the Best Western Lakeside Inn next Monday at 7 PM.
On Monday, members of the CEP met with Ontario's forestries minister, Michael Gravelle about protecting their pensions.
Kim Ginter says they want to update their membership on how talks with AbitibiBowater and provincial governments have been going.
The Kenora meeting will take place at the Best Western Lakeside Inn next Monday at 7 PM.
New Flu Clinic Location Kenora
The Northwestern Health Unit is changing the location for this week's H1N1 flu clinics.
Initially they had been scheduled to take place at the Norman Community Club, but they are now slated to take place at the Kenora Rec. Center.
The clinics will be for people considered at high risk of contracting theswine flu.
The next clinic will take place on Thursday from 10 in the morning until 8:00 in the evening.
There will also be one on Friday from 10 until 3:00 in the afternoon.
Both will take place at the Rec. Center.
Initially they had been scheduled to take place at the Norman Community Club, but they are now slated to take place at the Kenora Rec. Center.
The clinics will be for people considered at high risk of contracting theswine flu.
The next clinic will take place on Thursday from 10 in the morning until 8:00 in the evening.
There will also be one on Friday from 10 until 3:00 in the afternoon.
Both will take place at the Rec. Center.
Take our kids to work day
You might notice a few younger faces in local work places today.
Its the annual Take Our Kids to Word Day across Canada, and inKenora more than 20 local businesses are taking part.
Nicole Kurtz is a guidance councillor at St. Thomas Aquinas and saysthey've had a very good response to the program.
Kurtz says Lake of the Woods District Hospital is also getting involvedthis year with a special program for grade nine students interested ina career in the medical field.
Its the annual Take Our Kids to Word Day across Canada, and inKenora more than 20 local businesses are taking part.
Nicole Kurtz is a guidance councillor at St. Thomas Aquinas and saysthey've had a very good response to the program.
Kurtz says Lake of the Woods District Hospital is also getting involvedthis year with a special program for grade nine students interested ina career in the medical field.
New Fingerprinting Technology
A business that provides security services has opened a Northern Ontario office in Sudbury.
The Commissionaires office will provide state of the art digital fingerprinting for all of Northwestern Ontario.
Spokesperson Paul Guidon says it will be a quicker ID and fingerprinting service.
The Commissionaires office is accredited by the RCMP and can link securely and directly to their network.
The Commissionaires office will provide state of the art digital fingerprinting for all of Northwestern Ontario.
Spokesperson Paul Guidon says it will be a quicker ID and fingerprinting service.
The Commissionaires office is accredited by the RCMP and can link securely and directly to their network.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Drugs in Car
Kenora OPP came across a vehicle left in a ditch on the Jones Road on Halloween.
Police found a large amount of marihuana and other drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle.
20 year old Tristan Hales of Kenora has been charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking.
Hales will appear in Kneora cour on January 18th to answer the charge.
Police found a large amount of marihuana and other drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle.
20 year old Tristan Hales of Kenora has been charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking.
Hales will appear in Kneora cour on January 18th to answer the charge.
Airport Drugs
OPP and Nishnawbe-Aski Police continue to put their foot down on drug trafficking to remote Northern First Nations.
Police conducted 2-separate drug investigations last Thursday at the Thunder Bay Airport.
Officers seized 349-percocet pills, worth nearly 14-thousand dollars.
The drugs were destined for Fort Hope and Webequei First Nations.
A total of 5-people were arrested.
Police conducted 2-separate drug investigations last Thursday at the Thunder Bay Airport.
Officers seized 349-percocet pills, worth nearly 14-thousand dollars.
The drugs were destined for Fort Hope and Webequei First Nations.
A total of 5-people were arrested.
Flu Northwestern Ontario
The H1N1 flu virus has claimed its first lives in Northwestern Ontario.
2-Thunder Bay residents, a man and a woman, have died of the flu.The Thunder Bay District Health Unit says both had underlying health conditions.
In Dryden, there are no confirmed cases of H1N1.
Vaccine clinics are being held in Atikokan, Dryden and Sioux Lookout today if you have an appointment.
Clinics will be held in Kenora on Thursday and Friday at the Norman Community Club.
2-Thunder Bay residents, a man and a woman, have died of the flu.The Thunder Bay District Health Unit says both had underlying health conditions.
In Dryden, there are no confirmed cases of H1N1.
Vaccine clinics are being held in Atikokan, Dryden and Sioux Lookout today if you have an appointment.
Clinics will be held in Kenora on Thursday and Friday at the Norman Community Club.
Drug Charge
A complaint regarding an eastbound vehicle on Highway 17 resulted in drug charges laid against a Winnipeg woman.
Dryden OPP were called and stopped the vehicle in the City.
Officers located a quantity of cocaine and charged the passenger, 23-year-old Angela Hamilton with possession of cocaine.
Dryden OPP were called and stopped the vehicle in the City.
Officers located a quantity of cocaine and charged the passenger, 23-year-old Angela Hamilton with possession of cocaine.
Speed Racer
An Alberta man has an extended stay in Northwestern Ontario.
OPP stopped a vehicle on Highway 17 doing 146-kilometres in a 70-zone in the Town of Igance.
Police stopped 38-year-old Mark Mahaussier of Eckville and charged him with racing a motor vehicle.
He had his licence and vehicle seized for 7-days.
OPP stopped a vehicle on Highway 17 doing 146-kilometres in a 70-zone in the Town of Igance.
Police stopped 38-year-old Mark Mahaussier of Eckville and charged him with racing a motor vehicle.
He had his licence and vehicle seized for 7-days.
Fatal Accident
The name of a Winnipeg Man who died in Sunday's fatal accident on Highway 17 near Kenora has been identified.
64 year old Alfred Barra was operating his tractor trailer west bound on hwy 17 when he failed to negotiate a corner.
Barra's transport hit a rock cut, and the Winnipeg man died as a result of injuries sustained in the collision.
64 year old Alfred Barra was operating his tractor trailer west bound on hwy 17 when he failed to negotiate a corner.
Barra's transport hit a rock cut, and the Winnipeg man died as a result of injuries sustained in the collision.
Impaired Driver
A Kenora resident helped nab a drunk driver Monday night.
Kenora OPP say a local driver took evasive action to avoid a collision with another vehicle on 5th Street South.
Police heard that the citizen spoke to the irratic driver and came to the opinion that she had been drinking.
Police were called and after speaking with the driver determined that she was impaired.
44 year old Debra Assin of Grassy Narrows was charged with impaired driving.
Assin will attend Kenora court on December 14th to answer the charge.
Kenora OPP say a local driver took evasive action to avoid a collision with another vehicle on 5th Street South.
Police heard that the citizen spoke to the irratic driver and came to the opinion that she had been drinking.
Police were called and after speaking with the driver determined that she was impaired.
44 year old Debra Assin of Grassy Narrows was charged with impaired driving.
Assin will attend Kenora court on December 14th to answer the charge.
Crime Prevention Week
It's Crime Prevention Week in Ontario.
The Kenora OPP will be holding a number of seminars on prevention and community involvement.
Constable Dave Cain says this year's theme was "Prevention Pays."
Home security, travelling safety, seniors issues and stranger danger will be promoted through out this week.
The Kenora OPP will be holding a number of seminars on prevention and community involvement.
Constable Dave Cain says this year's theme was "Prevention Pays."
Home security, travelling safety, seniors issues and stranger danger will be promoted through out this week.
Weather Review
The month of October was a big contrast to our September to remember.
Last month was cooler and cloudier than normal.
Environment Canada Climatologist, Geoff Coulson says much of ourprecipitation last month actually fell in the form of snow.
Coulson says Kenora usually sees about 54 millimeters of precipitationin October.
The average temperature last month was 3.7 degrees , which is about1.5 degrees below normal.
Last month was cooler and cloudier than normal.
Environment Canada Climatologist, Geoff Coulson says much of ourprecipitation last month actually fell in the form of snow.
Coulson says Kenora usually sees about 54 millimeters of precipitationin October.
The average temperature last month was 3.7 degrees , which is about1.5 degrees below normal.
Auto Insurance Reform
The opposition is taking the McGuinty government to task for its insurance reform package.
Finance minister Dwight Duncan suggests the reforms will see insurance premiums fall for some motorists.
Kenora-Rainy River M.P.P. Howard Hampton says lowering coverage is not a good way of dealing with double digit hikes in premiums.
The provincial government is proposing more than 40 revisions to auto insurance regulations to give consumers options to reduce their premiums.
Finance minister Dwight Duncan suggests the reforms will see insurance premiums fall for some motorists.
Kenora-Rainy River M.P.P. Howard Hampton says lowering coverage is not a good way of dealing with double digit hikes in premiums.
The provincial government is proposing more than 40 revisions to auto insurance regulations to give consumers options to reduce their premiums.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Highway 17/71 Accident
The Trans Canada Highway is open to both lanes of traffic again.
OPP responded to a single vehicle crash near the Highway 17/71 junction near Kenora yesterday.
Traffic was lined up in Vermillion Bay and just outside of the turn off to Highway 71.
The highway was opened and closed throughout the day as police cleared debris from that section of highway.
The OPP are investigating the cause of the transport crash.
OPP responded to a single vehicle crash near the Highway 17/71 junction near Kenora yesterday.
Traffic was lined up in Vermillion Bay and just outside of the turn off to Highway 71.
The highway was opened and closed throughout the day as police cleared debris from that section of highway.
The OPP are investigating the cause of the transport crash.
Recycling Program AMO
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario is applauding a discussion paper bythe provincial government which recommends that manufacturers take over 100 percent of recycling costs.
Currently, industry is responsible for 50 percent of blue box programs.
Peter Hume is president of AMO and says local taxpayers should never had been responsible for recycling costs in the first place.
In the City of Kenora, recycling costs are the main reason there is a deficit in the Solid Waste budget.
Hume says he would like the provincial government to implement the recommendations in the discussion paper as quickly as possible.
Currently, industry is responsible for 50 percent of blue box programs.
Peter Hume is president of AMO and says local taxpayers should never had been responsible for recycling costs in the first place.
In the City of Kenora, recycling costs are the main reason there is a deficit in the Solid Waste budget.
Hume says he would like the provincial government to implement the recommendations in the discussion paper as quickly as possible.
Grassy Narrows Charges Dropped
Charges have been dropped against a Grassy Narrows woman for building two cabins on crown land.
Roberta Keesick has built the cabins, without a permit, on her trapline north of Kenora.
Keesick says its a relief to have the charges dropped.
Keesick was charged in March of 2007 and the Crown Prosecutor in Red Lake decided to drop all charges last week.
She says she has not been given an explanation why the crown decided not to pursue the case.
Roberta Keesick has built the cabins, without a permit, on her trapline north of Kenora.
Keesick says its a relief to have the charges dropped.
Keesick was charged in March of 2007 and the Crown Prosecutor in Red Lake decided to drop all charges last week.
She says she has not been given an explanation why the crown decided not to pursue the case.
Water Levels
Despite all the rain this week, water levels on Lake of the Woods Control Board continue to drop.
Water levels went down about one inch in the past seven days and the Lake of the WoodsControl board says the lake should drop another one or two inches in the next week.
The Control Board has been working to draw water levels down before freeze up.
Outflow remains steady at 410 cubic meters per second.
Water levels went down about one inch in the past seven days and the Lake of the WoodsControl board says the lake should drop another one or two inches in the next week.
The Control Board has been working to draw water levels down before freeze up.
Outflow remains steady at 410 cubic meters per second.
Gun Registry
The Conservatives are launching a publicity blitz to help kill the Federal gun registry.
The Tories are targetting specific ridings, aimed at twisting the arm of key MP's who might give them the votes they need to eliminate the registry.
They are buying radio ads in largely rural areas, urging listeners to flood their MPs with calls and emails to vote for a Conservtive Bill next week.
The ads stress the importance of protecting the rural way of life.With the gun registry up for a free vote, the Tories need only a handful of MP's to switch sides in order for the private member's bill to pass.
Opponents of the registry complain that it unfairly hassles honest hunters and owners of long guns, while doing nothing to stop criminals.
The Tories are targetting specific ridings, aimed at twisting the arm of key MP's who might give them the votes they need to eliminate the registry.
They are buying radio ads in largely rural areas, urging listeners to flood their MPs with calls and emails to vote for a Conservtive Bill next week.
The ads stress the importance of protecting the rural way of life.With the gun registry up for a free vote, the Tories need only a handful of MP's to switch sides in order for the private member's bill to pass.
Opponents of the registry complain that it unfairly hassles honest hunters and owners of long guns, while doing nothing to stop criminals.
Crimestoppers Update
The new executive director of Northwestern Ontario and Northern Minnesota Crimestoppers says the program is as strong as its ever been.
Doug Anderson has been meeting with police, media and other community members.
Anderson says he's pleased with the program's response both in northwestern Ontario and northern Minnesota.
Anderson says part of his role is to help bring more community awareness and support for the Crimestoppers program.
Doug Anderson has been meeting with police, media and other community members.
Anderson says he's pleased with the program's response both in northwestern Ontario and northern Minnesota.
Anderson says part of his role is to help bring more community awareness and support for the Crimestoppers program.
Fire Season Wrap Up
There hasn't been a lot of activity for Ministry of Natural ResourcesFire Ranger Crews in recent weeks.
The fire season officially draws to a close on October 31st in northwestern Ontario.
Fire Information Officer Debbie McLean says even though theweather has been very wet this week, its still possible forwild fires to start.
McLean says MNR staff are investigating one new fire this week thatstarted west of Clearwater Bay.
The 0.1 hectare blaze was human caused.
The fire season officially draws to a close on October 31st in northwestern Ontario.
Fire Information Officer Debbie McLean says even though theweather has been very wet this week, its still possible forwild fires to start.
McLean says MNR staff are investigating one new fire this week thatstarted west of Clearwater Bay.
The 0.1 hectare blaze was human caused.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Local Sports
It was a familiar script for court teams Thursday afternoon.
Beaver Brae's Senior Boys Volleyball team cruised to a straight setswin over Fort Frances during Pep Rally Day at the Beaver Brae Gym.
The rest of the Bronco teams didn't fare as well.
The Beaver Brae junior boys volleyball squad lost three sets to noneto the Muskies, while the Bronco junior girls basketball team dropped a 20-14 decision to Fort.
In Senior Girls basketball action, Beaver Brae tied the game late, butthe Muskies managed to rally for a 28-25 victory.
The regular season will wrap up next Tuesday when the Broncos hostthe Dryden Eagles.
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Beaver Brae and Thomas Aquinas Boys hockey team will get their firstreal tests this weekend.
The 24th Annual Dryden High School Tournament begins this morning.
The Saints are in action at 11:00 against Glenborough/Carberry fromManitoba.
The Broncos play right after taking on Fort Frances at 12:30.
The tournament will wrap up with the finals Saturday afternoon.
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The Saint Thomas Aquinas Saints court sports teams travelled to Ignace yesterday.
Senior Boys Volleyball team won in 3-straight and are still undefeated.
Junior Boys Volleyball also won 3-straight.
Senior girls Basketball, T.A. won 56-18.
In Junior Girls Basketball, T.A. won 51-29.
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Beaver Brae's Senior Boys Volleyball team cruised to a straight setswin over Fort Frances during Pep Rally Day at the Beaver Brae Gym.
The rest of the Bronco teams didn't fare as well.
The Beaver Brae junior boys volleyball squad lost three sets to noneto the Muskies, while the Bronco junior girls basketball team dropped a 20-14 decision to Fort.
In Senior Girls basketball action, Beaver Brae tied the game late, butthe Muskies managed to rally for a 28-25 victory.
The regular season will wrap up next Tuesday when the Broncos hostthe Dryden Eagles.
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Beaver Brae and Thomas Aquinas Boys hockey team will get their firstreal tests this weekend.
The 24th Annual Dryden High School Tournament begins this morning.
The Saints are in action at 11:00 against Glenborough/Carberry fromManitoba.
The Broncos play right after taking on Fort Frances at 12:30.
The tournament will wrap up with the finals Saturday afternoon.
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The Saint Thomas Aquinas Saints court sports teams travelled to Ignace yesterday.
Senior Boys Volleyball team won in 3-straight and are still undefeated.
Junior Boys Volleyball also won 3-straight.
Senior girls Basketball, T.A. won 56-18.
In Junior Girls Basketball, T.A. won 51-29.
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Gravelle on Busing
The provincial government says its continuing to work to find a solution to Greyhound's ultimatum to pull out of northwestern Ontario.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle says the NorthernGrowth Plan talks about improving transportation corridors in the region,and that could include bussing.
Kenora-Rainy River M.P.P. Howard Hampton took the government to task yesterdayfor the slow pace of talks with Greyhound in saving service in northwestern Ontario.
Greyhound is planning to cease service as of December 2nd.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle says the NorthernGrowth Plan talks about improving transportation corridors in the region,and that could include bussing.
Kenora-Rainy River M.P.P. Howard Hampton took the government to task yesterdayfor the slow pace of talks with Greyhound in saving service in northwestern Ontario.
Greyhound is planning to cease service as of December 2nd.
Festival of Trees
Over 25 trees will be up for auction at the 6th annual festival of trees fundraiser for the Lake of the Woods Community Foundation.
Festival Committee Chair Linda Wydman says this year's theme is "Childhood Memories."
Over a thousand people viewed the festival of trees last year, and over 23 thousand dollars was raised for the community foundation.
Festivities for this year's event will start on Thursday December 3rd.
Festival Committee Chair Linda Wydman says this year's theme is "Childhood Memories."
Over a thousand people viewed the festival of trees last year, and over 23 thousand dollars was raised for the community foundation.
Festivities for this year's event will start on Thursday December 3rd.
Daylight Savings Time
Don't forget to change your clocks back on Sunday. Daylight savings ends on November 1st.
The City of Kenora's Fire and Emergency Services is reminding residents to change the batteries in their smoke alarms this weekend.
Firehall Spokesperson Fred Ralko says it takes just a couple of minutes and it could save your life.
Failing to meet smoke alarm requirements can result in fines from 235 dollars to 50-thousand.
The City of Kenora's Fire and Emergency Services is reminding residents to change the batteries in their smoke alarms this weekend.
Firehall Spokesperson Fred Ralko says it takes just a couple of minutes and it could save your life.
Failing to meet smoke alarm requirements can result in fines from 235 dollars to 50-thousand.
Gate Night and Halloween
Ghosts and goblins will be out this weekend, but local policewill be keeping an eye out for other mischief makers.
Tonight is Gate Night in the city, traditionally an eveningof lots of minor incidents of vandalism.
Constable Dave Cain of the OPP says they will have extrapatrols out tonight and tomorrow night to reduce mischief complaints.
Cain says in recent years they've noticed a decrease in theamount of mischief on Gate Night, thanks in part to an increasedpolice presence and the work of Citizans on Patrol.
Tonight is Gate Night in the city, traditionally an eveningof lots of minor incidents of vandalism.
Constable Dave Cain of the OPP says they will have extrapatrols out tonight and tomorrow night to reduce mischief complaints.
Cain says in recent years they've noticed a decrease in theamount of mischief on Gate Night, thanks in part to an increasedpolice presence and the work of Citizans on Patrol.
OFIA on Northern Growth Plan`
The Ontario Forest Industries Association isn't a big fan of theNorthern Growth Plan released last week by the province.
The group says the government has basically ignored the loss of forestryjobs in the region.
Michael Gravelle is the Minister of Northern Development and Minesand admits he still has a selling job to do on the growth plan.
Gravelle says for the most part, response to the Northern GrowthPlan has been positive.
The group says the government has basically ignored the loss of forestryjobs in the region.
Michael Gravelle is the Minister of Northern Development and Minesand admits he still has a selling job to do on the growth plan.
Gravelle says for the most part, response to the Northern GrowthPlan has been positive.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Festival of Trees
Over 25 trees will be up for auction at the 6th annual festival of trees fundraiser for the Lake of the Woods Community Foundation.
Festival Committee Chair Linda Wydman says this year's theme is "Childhood Memories."
Over a thousand people viewed the festival of trees last year, and over 23 thousand dollars was raised for the community foundation.
Festivities for this year's event will start on Thursday December 3rd.
Sign By Law Public Meeting
About a dozen people turned out to a public meeting about the City of Kenora's proposed new sign by-law.
A number of changes are planned, including banning the use of neon, or L.E.D. signage in the Harbortown area.
City Planner Jeff Port says another class of sign would also not be permitted.
Port does say that any signs that currently have a permit would continue to be allowed under the
new sign by-law.
The new sign by-law is expected to go before council in the next couple of months.
A number of changes are planned, including banning the use of neon, or L.E.D. signage in the Harbortown area.
City Planner Jeff Port says another class of sign would also not be permitted.
Port does say that any signs that currently have a permit would continue to be allowed under the
new sign by-law.
The new sign by-law is expected to go before council in the next couple of months.
St. Thomas Aquinas Court Sports
St. Thomas Aquinas Court Sport Teams faired well yesterday on the road.
In Junior Boys Volleyball, T.A. defeated the Sioux Lookout Warriors 5 sets to none.
The junior girls basketball clinched first place with a 61-45 victory over an undermanned Sioux Lookout team.
Meanwhile, the senior girls basketball team lost to the Warriors by a score of 34-30.
In Junior Boys Volleyball, T.A. defeated the Sioux Lookout Warriors 5 sets to none.
The junior girls basketball clinched first place with a 61-45 victory over an undermanned Sioux Lookout team.
Meanwhile, the senior girls basketball team lost to the Warriors by a score of 34-30.
Crimestoppers Update
The new executive director of Northwestern Ontario and Minnesota Crimestopper is looking to raise the profile of the organization in the Rainy River district.
Doug Anderson was in the area yesterday to meet with police, media and other community members.
Anderson says residents in Fort Frances have played an important role in reducing crime.
Anderson says the program is also strong in Minnesota where it expanded more than twenty years.
Doug Anderson was in the area yesterday to meet with police, media and other community members.
Anderson says residents in Fort Frances have played an important role in reducing crime.
Anderson says the program is also strong in Minnesota where it expanded more than twenty years.
OPG Hunters
Ontario Power Generation says it will proceed with trespass charges if hunters are found on its property.
The warning comes following recent indicents at hydro facilities in the Terrace Bay area where
O-P-G says hunters ignored barriers and signs and entered lands near its dams.
O-P-G says water levels near hydro facilities can change dramatically, which puts the hunters at risk.
It says its also concerned about the safety of employees who may be workign at the stations and don't expect hunters to be in the area.
The warning comes following recent indicents at hydro facilities in the Terrace Bay area where
O-P-G says hunters ignored barriers and signs and entered lands near its dams.
O-P-G says water levels near hydro facilities can change dramatically, which puts the hunters at risk.
It says its also concerned about the safety of employees who may be workign at the stations and don't expect hunters to be in the area.
Rickford defends money for riding
Kenora M-P Greg Rickford says a Liberal report putting his riding at the top of infrastructure stimulus funding is misleading.
The Liberals claim spending of the federal stimulus program heavily favoured Tory ridings with Rickford's riding near the top.
But Rickford says if you compare the dollars, opposition ridings claimed a bigger share.
Rickford says the 65 projects approved in his riding is a reflection of the number of towns and first nation communities he represents that benefited.
The Liberals claim spending of the federal stimulus program heavily favoured Tory ridings with Rickford's riding near the top.
But Rickford says if you compare the dollars, opposition ridings claimed a bigger share.
Rickford says the 65 projects approved in his riding is a reflection of the number of towns and first nation communities he represents that benefited.
Greyhound Routes in Manitoba SAFE
It looks like Greyhound will continue to operate in Manitoba, at least for the short-term.
The bus company has announced it is working on an agreement with the Manitoba government to keep buses rolling.
Greyhound had threatened to stop operating in Manitoba by next week, and cut service in northwestern Ontario by December, unless it received $15 million a year in subsidies.
The company says it has met with provincial officials and isworking on a deal.
Manitoba Transportation Minister Ron Lemieux says he wants to see bus service continue, but warns some future route reductions are probable.
The bus company has announced it is working on an agreement with the Manitoba government to keep buses rolling.
Greyhound had threatened to stop operating in Manitoba by next week, and cut service in northwestern Ontario by December, unless it received $15 million a year in subsidies.
The company says it has met with provincial officials and isworking on a deal.
Manitoba Transportation Minister Ron Lemieux says he wants to see bus service continue, but warns some future route reductions are probable.
NWHU Flu Information
There are no immediate plans by the Northwestern Health Unit to have children in the district to receive the H-1-N-1 vaccine in local schools.
The death of two teenagers in southern Ontario from the flu has forced health officials to consider allowing children aged 5 to 18 to be among the first to receive the H-1-N-1 flu shot.
Medical officer of health Dr. James Arthurs says if there's a spike in the number of young people locally contracting the flu, it will offer shots different.
Currently, the health unit is encouraging those under the age of 5 and people under 65 with chronic health conditions to be among the first to get the shot.
The death of two teenagers in southern Ontario from the flu has forced health officials to consider allowing children aged 5 to 18 to be among the first to receive the H-1-N-1 flu shot.
Medical officer of health Dr. James Arthurs says if there's a spike in the number of young people locally contracting the flu, it will offer shots different.
Currently, the health unit is encouraging those under the age of 5 and people under 65 with chronic health conditions to be among the first to get the shot.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Don't forget to wash your hands
As the local health unit prepares to administer this season's flu shots, the agency that promotes health protection in Ontario says hand-washing is still the best method in preventing the sread of the flu.
Doctor Michael Gardam of the Ontario Agency for Health Protection and Promotion says while no specific studies it will reduces the transmission of flu, handwashing is effective.
Gardam says the use of hand-sanitizers is also an effective tool especially for health care workers.
Doctor Michael Gardam of the Ontario Agency for Health Protection and Promotion says while no specific studies it will reduces the transmission of flu, handwashing is effective.
Gardam says the use of hand-sanitizers is also an effective tool especially for health care workers.
Regional Hospitals
The number of people visiting Hospital emergency rooms continues to rise, prompting officials to take precautions.Staff in Dryden and Sioux Lookout are asking the public to not visit.
There are some exceptions and in that case visitors will be screened and will be required to wear masks.
In Sioux Lookout, if you do have to go to the Hospital, access will be limited to one entrance at each site.
Staff movement between Hospitals is now restricted and all staff and physicians must be immunized with the H1N1 vaccine.
Officials say they have 1-confirmed case of the H1N1 virus to date.Dryden officials are reported no confirmed cases and note staff and volunteers will get their H1N1 shot starting tomorrow.
There are some exceptions and in that case visitors will be screened and will be required to wear masks.
In Sioux Lookout, if you do have to go to the Hospital, access will be limited to one entrance at each site.
Staff movement between Hospitals is now restricted and all staff and physicians must be immunized with the H1N1 vaccine.
Officials say they have 1-confirmed case of the H1N1 virus to date.Dryden officials are reported no confirmed cases and note staff and volunteers will get their H1N1 shot starting tomorrow.
Abitibi Accident Fort Frances
Authorities now say two people were involved in an incident at the AbitibiBowater mill in Fort Frances Sunday that left a 15-year-old girl with serious injuries, including burns to her body.
Ministry of Labour says the two scaled a fence late Sunday evening and one made contact with a source of electricity.
When emergency personnel arrived on scene, the 15-year-old was found in a fenced off area near a power transformer.
The Electrical Safety Authority is also assisting O-P-P in the investigation.
Ministry of Labour says the two scaled a fence late Sunday evening and one made contact with a source of electricity.
When emergency personnel arrived on scene, the 15-year-old was found in a fenced off area near a power transformer.
The Electrical Safety Authority is also assisting O-P-P in the investigation.
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