The Lake of the Woods District Hospital Foundation has its fourth executivedirector in the past year.
Jess Rheault was hired last week to fill the position.
She says in addition to the Tree of Lights campaign, they will alsobe erecting the lighted Christmas structures along Lakeview Drive.
Rheault says their fundraising efforts right now are going towards a PCR analyzer forthe Lab department.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Community Foundation Grants
A total of 14 groups in Kenora have been given over 46 thousand dollars from the Lake of the Woods Regional Community Foundation.
Executive Director Darlene MacGilivry says the foundation helps out a variety of programs in the region.
The Kenora Fellowship Centre, and St. John's Ambulance will each be receiving 3 thousand dollars, and the Sioux Narrows School Student Nutrition program will utilize over 2 thousand dollars.
Executive Director Darlene MacGilivry says the foundation helps out a variety of programs in the region.
The Kenora Fellowship Centre, and St. John's Ambulance will each be receiving 3 thousand dollars, and the Sioux Narrows School Student Nutrition program will utilize over 2 thousand dollars.
Hampton on HST
The New Democrats say a harmonized sales tax of 13-percent is nothing more then a tax break for large and profitable corporations.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton is asking residents to voice their opposition to Legislation creating the single tax.
Hampton notes ordinary people will end up paying more in hydro, heat and filling their gas tank.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton is asking residents to voice their opposition to Legislation creating the single tax.
Hampton notes ordinary people will end up paying more in hydro, heat and filling their gas tank.
KPDSB Kindergarten
The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board has started the process of deciding where to extend all-day junior and senior kindergarten classesnext year.
The public school board will be able to offer only two classes starting next fall.
Superintendant of Business, Dean Carrie says its going to take some work to find locations that fit the Ministry of Education criteria.
Carrie says under the government's regulations, the schools will have to be able to accomodate at least 26 students, whichwill limit the number of locations they can use next year.
The public school board will be able to offer only two classes starting next fall.
Superintendant of Business, Dean Carrie says its going to take some work to find locations that fit the Ministry of Education criteria.
Carrie says under the government's regulations, the schools will have to be able to accomodate at least 26 students, whichwill limit the number of locations they can use next year.
DSSAB Increase
Kenora City Council has reluctantly agreed to hand over an extra 217 thousand dollars to the Kenora District Services Board this year.
The board says due to unexpectedly high costs for Ontario Works programs this year, they had to amend their 2009 budget.
Councillor Chris Van Wallenghem refused to vote in favourof the increase, saying the 10 percent hike is out of line.
While other members of council agreed, they said the city's hands are tied and its required by law to pay the extra costs.
The board says due to unexpectedly high costs for Ontario Works programs this year, they had to amend their 2009 budget.
Councillor Chris Van Wallenghem refused to vote in favourof the increase, saying the 10 percent hike is out of line.
While other members of council agreed, they said the city's hands are tied and its required by law to pay the extra costs.
Ignatieff in Kenora today
The leader of the federal Liberals will be paying a visit to theKenora Riding today.
Michael Ignatieff has a number of events planned for his stay in town.
He will be holding a Town Hall meeting tonight atthe Best Western Lakeside Inn starting at 7:30.
He is also will be meeting local aboriginal and municipal leaders throughout the day.
This is Ignatieff's first visit to the Kenora Riding since hewas chosen to lead the party almost a year ago.
Michael Ignatieff has a number of events planned for his stay in town.
He will be holding a Town Hall meeting tonight atthe Best Western Lakeside Inn starting at 7:30.
He is also will be meeting local aboriginal and municipal leaders throughout the day.
This is Ignatieff's first visit to the Kenora Riding since hewas chosen to lead the party almost a year ago.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Thunder Bay Flu Scanners
Wait times at Thunder Bay flu shot clinics should get shorter once new computer equipment is up and operating.
The Thunder Bay District Health Unit is receiving gear that will allow quicker sign-ins at swine flu and seasonal flu clinics.
The equipment will allow those seeking shots to swipe an Ontario health card or driver's licence for identification.
The health unit will receive about 20 scanners at a cost of about 60-thousand dollars.
The Thunder Bay District Health Unit is receiving gear that will allow quicker sign-ins at swine flu and seasonal flu clinics.
The equipment will allow those seeking shots to swipe an Ontario health card or driver's licence for identification.
The health unit will receive about 20 scanners at a cost of about 60-thousand dollars.
Dryden Highways
The City of Dryden plans to lobby the provincial government to improve the state of highways in northwestern Ontario -- and ask fora higher speed limit.
Dryden will ask that the speed limit to be increased by 10 kilometres an hour.
One councillor says most travellers are going stateside because of the state of Ontario's highway's.
Dryden will ask that the speed limit to be increased by 10 kilometres an hour.
One councillor says most travellers are going stateside because of the state of Ontario's highway's.
Greyhound Hampton
No news, isn't good news when it comes to Greyhound Bus Service in northwestern Ontario.
Greyhound has said it will suspend bus service December 2nd unless the government agrees to provide some sort of subsidy for the service.
Kenora-Rainy River M.P.P. Howard Hampton says he asked the Transportation
Minister yesterday in the Ontario Legislature what's being done to keep the service running.
Hampton says so far no other bus company has applied to the Ontario Transportation Board to operate in northern Ontario if Greyhound pulls out.
Greyhound has said it will suspend bus service December 2nd unless the government agrees to provide some sort of subsidy for the service.
Kenora-Rainy River M.P.P. Howard Hampton says he asked the Transportation
Minister yesterday in the Ontario Legislature what's being done to keep the service running.
Hampton says so far no other bus company has applied to the Ontario Transportation Board to operate in northern Ontario if Greyhound pulls out.
Greyhound Hampton
No news, isn't good news when it comes to Greyhound Bus Service in northwestern Ontario.
Greyhound has said it will suspend bus service December 2nd unless the government agrees to provide some sort of subsidy for the service.
Kenora-Rainy River M.P.P. Howard Hampton says he asked the Transportation
Minister yesterday in the Ontario Legislature what's being done to keep the service running.
Hampton says so far no other bus company has applied to the Ontario Transportation Board to operate in northern Ontario if Greyhound pulls out.
Greyhound has said it will suspend bus service December 2nd unless the government agrees to provide some sort of subsidy for the service.
Kenora-Rainy River M.P.P. Howard Hampton says he asked the Transportation
Minister yesterday in the Ontario Legislature what's being done to keep the service running.
Hampton says so far no other bus company has applied to the Ontario Transportation Board to operate in northern Ontario if Greyhound pulls out.
KDSB Budget
Area Municipalities may be paying less for social services next year.
The Kenora District Service Board has released its proposed budget for 2010, with net costs dropping 147-thousand dollars from 2009.
Finance Chair Anne Krassilowsky says they are still facing considerable pressures.
The KDSB is expecting to pay 6.1-million dollars in Ontario Works financial benefits next year, up 700-thousand dollars from this year.All communities in the District have seen an increase in cases, with the exception of Red Lake.
The Kenora District Service Board has released its proposed budget for 2010, with net costs dropping 147-thousand dollars from 2009.
Finance Chair Anne Krassilowsky says they are still facing considerable pressures.
The KDSB is expecting to pay 6.1-million dollars in Ontario Works financial benefits next year, up 700-thousand dollars from this year.All communities in the District have seen an increase in cases, with the exception of Red Lake.
The Kenora Riding did very well in terms of securing federal infrastructure funding this year.
A total of 6.7 million dollars was handed out to communities in first nations under the Recreational Infrastructure Canada Fund.
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford says he's not going to apologize for the fact this riding got more funding under that program than any other in Canada.
Rickford says at this point its too early to say whether the Harper government will pump any more money into infrastrucuture projects next year.
He says the finance department is currently holding consultation sessions and will decide before the budget is released in the spring.
A total of 6.7 million dollars was handed out to communities in first nations under the Recreational Infrastructure Canada Fund.
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford says he's not going to apologize for the fact this riding got more funding under that program than any other in Canada.
Rickford says at this point its too early to say whether the Harper government will pump any more money into infrastrucuture projects next year.
He says the finance department is currently holding consultation sessions and will decide before the budget is released in the spring.
Nutritious Food Basket
The cost of eating a healthy, well-balanced diet continue to go up in northwestern Ontario.
The Health Unit has come out with its annual nutritious food basket survey for 2009.
Dietician, Julie Slack says their main concern isn't the cost of food in the region, so much as how people on limited incomes are managing to eat health meals.
Slack says the cost of feeding a family of four has risen to 825 dollars in 2009.
The survey is based on the average price of groceries in 25 stores thoughout the Kenora and Rainy River Districts.
The Health Unit has come out with its annual nutritious food basket survey for 2009.
Dietician, Julie Slack says their main concern isn't the cost of food in the region, so much as how people on limited incomes are managing to eat health meals.
Slack says the cost of feeding a family of four has risen to 825 dollars in 2009.
The survey is based on the average price of groceries in 25 stores thoughout the Kenora and Rainy River Districts.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Blood Donor Clinic Today
There are still at least 40 open appointments for the second day of the Canadian Blood Services Blood Donor Clinic today.
Yesterday, 162 donors walked through the doors of St. Thomas Aquinas High School.
Spokesperson Harvey Heather says they don't think the flu season has impacted their blood drive.
To make an appointment for today's clinic call 1-888-2-DONATE.
141 units of blood were collected yesterday.
Yesterday, 162 donors walked through the doors of St. Thomas Aquinas High School.
Spokesperson Harvey Heather says they don't think the flu season has impacted their blood drive.
To make an appointment for today's clinic call 1-888-2-DONATE.
141 units of blood were collected yesterday.
Jones Road Landfill
Municipal waste will start being trucked out to the Jones Road Landfillsite on Wednesday.
Councillor Dave McCann says they had hoped to start using the siteon November 1st, but they had to wait for delivery of a landfillcompactor.
As for the site itself, he says it should be good for several decades.
City council decided to use the Jones Road Landfill site because thecost of shipping garbage to the Brady Road Site in Winnipeg wasgoing to double this year.
Councillor Dave McCann says they had hoped to start using the siteon November 1st, but they had to wait for delivery of a landfillcompactor.
As for the site itself, he says it should be good for several decades.
City council decided to use the Jones Road Landfill site because thecost of shipping garbage to the Brady Road Site in Winnipeg wasgoing to double this year.
Kenora Budget Meeting
The City of Kenora hasn't received a lot of input into its 2010 budget processso far from local taxpayers.
Just one group came out to a public meeting last night to give its thoughts on how the city budget should be spent.
Program Manager for Triple Play, Tanya Watts says they would likea 15 thousand dollar grant next year to meet a skyrocketing demand.
Watts says their program is facing a "perfect storm" in theirfundraising efforts, including a loss of local jobs, combined with the downturnin the global economy.
Just one group came out to a public meeting last night to give its thoughts on how the city budget should be spent.
Program Manager for Triple Play, Tanya Watts says they would likea 15 thousand dollar grant next year to meet a skyrocketing demand.
Watts says their program is facing a "perfect storm" in theirfundraising efforts, including a loss of local jobs, combined with the downturnin the global economy.
Drive Test Site Thunder Bay
The Director of Young Drivers in Kenora and Dryden has mixed feelings about a partial Drive Test Centre being opened in Thunder Bay.
Written G1 Drivers tests are being offered by Drive Test Managers in centres across Ontario.
Young Drivers Spokesperson Maria Bagdonas says most new drivers are still in high school and would have a hard time getting to the Thunder Bay site.
The Thunder Bay office will offer only partial services which includes, written tests for all classes of licences, road test for commercially classified licences and out-of-province or out-of-country licence exchanges.
Written G1 Drivers tests are being offered by Drive Test Managers in centres across Ontario.
Young Drivers Spokesperson Maria Bagdonas says most new drivers are still in high school and would have a hard time getting to the Thunder Bay site.
The Thunder Bay office will offer only partial services which includes, written tests for all classes of licences, road test for commercially classified licences and out-of-province or out-of-country licence exchanges.
Dr. Paul Gully First Nation Health
Public Health doesn't work without the co-operation of the community.
That message was delivered by Dr. Paul Gully of the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Gully was one of the speakers at a recent public health day in Whitefish Bay first nation.
The Federal Government spokesperson says they want to improve health care for first nations.
Gully was alongside Assembly of First Nations Chief Shawn Atleo to celebrate Public Health Day recently.
That message was delivered by Dr. Paul Gully of the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Gully was one of the speakers at a recent public health day in Whitefish Bay first nation.
The Federal Government spokesperson says they want to improve health care for first nations.
Gully was alongside Assembly of First Nations Chief Shawn Atleo to celebrate Public Health Day recently.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Local Sports Round Up
In local hockey over the weekend...
The Beaver Brae Bronco's girls team beat visiting Fort Frances 6 to 3.
The Bronco's then went on to defeat Red Lake 5-3.
The Kenora Tripple A Thistles couldn't finish their game with the Central Plains Capitals on Saturday.
The game was suspended after 40 minutes at 2 and 2.
On Sunday, the Thistles beat the Capitals 3 to 1.
The J and M Judo Club has returned from competing in the St. Bonniface Judo Open in Winnipeg.
The club picked up 5 gold, two silver & two bronze medals on the day.
Multi medal winners included Daniel Gordon, Luke Heatherington & Ben Dennis.
Boe & Rhianna Rogers rounded out the medals for the group.
The Beaver Brae Bronco's girls team beat visiting Fort Frances 6 to 3.
The Bronco's then went on to defeat Red Lake 5-3.
The Kenora Tripple A Thistles couldn't finish their game with the Central Plains Capitals on Saturday.
The game was suspended after 40 minutes at 2 and 2.
On Sunday, the Thistles beat the Capitals 3 to 1.
The J and M Judo Club has returned from competing in the St. Bonniface Judo Open in Winnipeg.
The club picked up 5 gold, two silver & two bronze medals on the day.
Multi medal winners included Daniel Gordon, Luke Heatherington & Ben Dennis.
Boe & Rhianna Rogers rounded out the medals for the group.
New Osnaburgh Homocide
Charges against an 18-year-old New Osnaburgh First Nation woman have been upgraded from second degree murder to first degree murder.
Kecia Leanne Spade was arrested in the stabbing death of 18-year-old Mariah Wesley in the First Nation community near Pickle Lake a week ago.
OPP and Nishnawbe-Aski Police are still investigating the incident.
Spade remains in Police custody.
Kecia Leanne Spade was arrested in the stabbing death of 18-year-old Mariah Wesley in the First Nation community near Pickle Lake a week ago.
OPP and Nishnawbe-Aski Police are still investigating the incident.
Spade remains in Police custody.
MNR Lying
A Dryden resident has been fined 750-dollars for failing to report the acquisition of wildlife parts and making a false statement to a conservation officer.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Natural Resources executed a search warrant at Lee-Anne Corbin's home and officer seized roughly 100-animal parts including moose and deer antlers.
Corbin claimed she found, purchased and received the wildlife parts, but did not have the necessary paper work.
The MNR is now determining which items Corbin can keep.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Natural Resources executed a search warrant at Lee-Anne Corbin's home and officer seized roughly 100-animal parts including moose and deer antlers.
Corbin claimed she found, purchased and received the wildlife parts, but did not have the necessary paper work.
The MNR is now determining which items Corbin can keep.
Water Line
The three million dollar submarine water line between Water Street and Norman has finally been completed.
Kenora City council officially celebrated the end of the project Friday morning.
Operations Manager Rick Perchuck says the project costs also include a new section of the water line to Coney Island.
The new 16 inch water line is 2.2 kilometers long and services 45 hundred residents and businesses on Tunnel Island, Norman and Keewatin.
Kenora City council officially celebrated the end of the project Friday morning.
Operations Manager Rick Perchuck says the project costs also include a new section of the water line to Coney Island.
The new 16 inch water line is 2.2 kilometers long and services 45 hundred residents and businesses on Tunnel Island, Norman and Keewatin.
Changes in Latitude
The City of Kenora has found some problems with a local business owner's proposed marina along Highway 17 west.
Bruce Krawicki's Changes of Latitude Marina was originally approved for 38 parking spots and 38 boat slips.
Planning Assistant Tara Rickaby says Krawicki has 3 weeks to come into compliance.
Councillor Dave McCann says Krawicki can either remove some boat slips or create more adequate parking so that the two are equal.
Bruce Krawicki's Changes of Latitude Marina was originally approved for 38 parking spots and 38 boat slips.
Planning Assistant Tara Rickaby says Krawicki has 3 weeks to come into compliance.
Councillor Dave McCann says Krawicki can either remove some boat slips or create more adequate parking so that the two are equal.
Flu Shot Clinics
Attendance to the Northwestern Health Unit's flu shot clinics continue to be brisk.
Nearly 9-thousand doses of the H-1-N-1 vaccine have been administered to residents in the Kenora and Rainy River district since flu shot clinics began two weeks ago.
And while other parts of the province experience shortages, Director of Health Protection Arlene Lesenke says they have been able to meet the local demand.
Lesenke says even though clinics are being promoted for the H-1-N-1 vaccine, residents can get their seasonal flu shot with it as well.
For more information on clinic times and to make an appointment call 468-3147.
Nearly 9-thousand doses of the H-1-N-1 vaccine have been administered to residents in the Kenora and Rainy River district since flu shot clinics began two weeks ago.
And while other parts of the province experience shortages, Director of Health Protection Arlene Lesenke says they have been able to meet the local demand.
Lesenke says even though clinics are being promoted for the H-1-N-1 vaccine, residents can get their seasonal flu shot with it as well.
For more information on clinic times and to make an appointment call 468-3147.
Blood Donor Clinic
It's time once again to give the gift of life.
The 2-day Blood Donor Clinic starts today at 4:30 at St. Thomas Aquinas High School.
Canadian Blood Services Spokesperson Michael Hyduk says they are hoping to attract more then 300-donors.
Hyduk says he doesn't believe the on-going H1N1 vaccination program will hurt attendance.
To make an appointment to donate blood call 1-888-2-DONATE.
The 2-day Blood Donor Clinic starts today at 4:30 at St. Thomas Aquinas High School.
Canadian Blood Services Spokesperson Michael Hyduk says they are hoping to attract more then 300-donors.
Hyduk says he doesn't believe the on-going H1N1 vaccination program will hurt attendance.
To make an appointment to donate blood call 1-888-2-DONATE.
MNR Bait Fish
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.
Dream Draw
The Kenora Rotary Club is hoping for another sell-out of its Dream Draw.
Monday is the deadline for the purchase of the 100 dollar tickets.
Gord McTaggert is a member of the Rotary Club and says this is their most profitable fundraiser of the year.
A total of ten vacation packages are up for grabs in the draw.
The winning tickets will be selected Monday evening.
Monday is the deadline for the purchase of the 100 dollar tickets.
Gord McTaggert is a member of the Rotary Club and says this is their most profitable fundraiser of the year.
A total of ten vacation packages are up for grabs in the draw.
The winning tickets will be selected Monday evening.
DSSAB Budget
Municipalities in the Kenora District should soon have a better idea on how much they will have to pay for social services next year.
The Kenora District Services Board is planning to approve its 2010 budget this week.
Rory McMillan is chair of the board and says one area they may have to look at increasing spending is for Ontario Works programs.
Earlier this week, the District Services Board wrote a letter to local municipalities to cough up and extra 10 percent to cover higher than expected Ontario Works costs.
The Kenora District Services Board is planning to approve its 2010 budget this week.
Rory McMillan is chair of the board and says one area they may have to look at increasing spending is for Ontario Works programs.
Earlier this week, the District Services Board wrote a letter to local municipalities to cough up and extra 10 percent to cover higher than expected Ontario Works costs.
CAO Job Posting
The City of Kenora has drafted a new job description for its Chief Administrative Officer.
Bill Presentanz will be retiring next year, and says he wanted an updated job description before they hired someone new for the position.
Presentanz says they plan to start advertising the job prior to Christmasand have someone in place by August 1st of next year.
Bill Presentanz will be retiring next year, and says he wanted an updated job description before they hired someone new for the position.
Presentanz says they plan to start advertising the job prior to Christmasand have someone in place by August 1st of next year.
Homework Help
The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board is one of 15 across the province involved in an on-line math tutoring service.
Scott Sparkman is a special assignment teachers with the public board and says math students from grade 7 to grade 10 can take advantage of program.
The on-line tutoring program is available Sunday to Thursday from 4:30 to 8:30.
Students can log onto WWW.HOMEWORKHELP.ILC.ORG
Scott Sparkman is a special assignment teachers with the public board and says math students from grade 7 to grade 10 can take advantage of program.
The on-line tutoring program is available Sunday to Thursday from 4:30 to 8:30.
Students can log onto WWW.HOMEWORKHELP.ILC.ORG
Kenora Budget
The City of Kenora is starting its 2010 budget process a lot earlier than normal.
The first public budget meeting will take place tomorrow night in council chambers.
Councillor Rory McMillan says they want feedback from local residents about how they want their property tax dollars spent.
The budget meeting will take place after the regular open meeting of council tomorrow night.
Anyone wanting to make a deputation is asked to contact city hall prior tothe meeting.
The first public budget meeting will take place tomorrow night in council chambers.
Councillor Rory McMillan says they want feedback from local residents about how they want their property tax dollars spent.
The budget meeting will take place after the regular open meeting of council tomorrow night.
Anyone wanting to make a deputation is asked to contact city hall prior tothe meeting.
Health Awards
Northern Diabetes Health Network is up for a provincial award.
The network's Northern Ontario Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative is among finalists for an
Innovation in Health Care Award to be presented later this month in Toronto.
The Initiative helped identify priority needs of Aboriginal communities and organizations in dealing with diabetes among First Nations people.
The network's Northern Ontario Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative is among finalists for an
Innovation in Health Care Award to be presented later this month in Toronto.
The Initiative helped identify priority needs of Aboriginal communities and organizations in dealing with diabetes among First Nations people.
Royal Winter Fair
There is a strong northwestern Ontario flavour to this year's Royal Winter Agricultural Fair in Toronto.
17-different products from companies between Thunder Bay and Kenora are on display at this year's agricultural showcase.
Rural Agricultural Coordinator for the Rainy River Futures Development Corporation Jeannette Cawston says attendance at last year's event convince them to join forced with other communities this year.
The fair includes a separate section for northern Ontario which Cawston says help local producers promote their products to fair goers.
17-different products from companies between Thunder Bay and Kenora are on display at this year's agricultural showcase.
Rural Agricultural Coordinator for the Rainy River Futures Development Corporation Jeannette Cawston says attendance at last year's event convince them to join forced with other communities this year.
The fair includes a separate section for northern Ontario which Cawston says help local producers promote their products to fair goers.
PARO Cash
The Federal Government is investing nearly 500-thousand dollars in the PARO Centre for Women's Enterprise.
The FedNor funding will support a 3-year initiative allowing the Agency to expand training, networking and support services for women entrepreneurs in remote and rural communities in Northwestern Ontario.
Minister of Industry Tony Clement made the announcement Tuesday in Thunder Bay.
The FedNor funding will support a 3-year initiative allowing the Agency to expand training, networking and support services for women entrepreneurs in remote and rural communities in Northwestern Ontario.
Minister of Industry Tony Clement made the announcement Tuesday in Thunder Bay.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Missing hunter found
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.
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.
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.
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