The NDP says it wants the provincial government to take a close look at the sale of Abitibi's hydro
dams in Ontario.
MPP Gilles Bisson says any decision that allows Abitibibowater to sell hydro assets
must be carefully scrutinized and involve local community leaders.
Last week, Abitibi announced the sale of eight Hydro dams, including those in Iroquois Falls, Fort Frances and Kenora to an unnamed buyer.
The sale is still subject to approval by the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Historically the dams have provided low-cost electricity to mills in these communities.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Federal Funding for Aboriginal Housing
A number of first nation communities in northwestern Ontario will benefitfrom a 14 million dollar housing program announced by the federal government.
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford announced the infrastrucuture project at the Northern Housing Conference taking place in Thunder Bay.
The Rat Portage and Couchiching First Nations will get the largest share of the money in this region.
Both communities have been promised 400 thousand dollars.
Rickford says the money will be used for social housing projects and also to help repair aging homes in the communities.
NorWOSSA Court Sport Finals in Kenora starting today
Both Thomas Aquinas and Beaver Brae are hosting NorWOSSA play-offs
this week.
Action begins today up at T.A. were the semi-finals of the single "a" boys basketball and girls volleyball take place.
The finals are scheduled to start at 9:00 tomorrow morning.
The Double "a" semis and finals will take place tomorrow at Beaver Brae.
this week.
Action begins today up at T.A. were the semi-finals of the single "a" boys basketball and girls volleyball take place.
The finals are scheduled to start at 9:00 tomorrow morning.
The Double "a" semis and finals will take place tomorrow at Beaver Brae.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Second Career Program Deemed a Success
The McGuinty Government is celebrating the success of the Second Career program in the North.
Just over 32 hundred Northern Ontario workers have particapated in the program, which offers financial assistance to laid off workers to retrain for a second career.
A recent survey shows 74 percent of Second Career students have found employment in less than a year after completeing the program.
The Second Career program was launched in 2008 by Employment Ontario.
Just over 32 hundred Northern Ontario workers have particapated in the program, which offers financial assistance to laid off workers to retrain for a second career.
A recent survey shows 74 percent of Second Career students have found employment in less than a year after completeing the program.
The Second Career program was launched in 2008 by Employment Ontario.
Woman fined for Illegal Deer Hunting
A Terrace Bay woman found out shooting deer can be expensive.
She was fined one-thousand dollars after pleading guilty to
shooting a deer from a roadway near Kenora last October.
Donna Parise was met by conservation officers on the Villeneuve Road after
they'd received a report of a high powered rifle been discharged in the area.
Parise said she fired a single shot at a deer from the centre of the road but believed she had missed.
The Ministry of Natural Resources reminds hunters it is illegal to shoot from, down or across a public road.
She was fined one-thousand dollars after pleading guilty to
shooting a deer from a roadway near Kenora last October.
Donna Parise was met by conservation officers on the Villeneuve Road after
they'd received a report of a high powered rifle been discharged in the area.
Parise said she fired a single shot at a deer from the centre of the road but believed she had missed.
The Ministry of Natural Resources reminds hunters it is illegal to shoot from, down or across a public road.
New Electronic Billboard Proposed for Harborfront
Its a sign of the times.
A national advertising company wants to put an electronic billboard up on
the Kenora Harborfront along the C.P. right of way.
Pattison Signs made a pitch to city council to replace the five conventional
billboards along the harborfront, with one electronic one.
Rob Sedgewick is a spokesperson for the company and says the concept is
a good one for the Harbortown area.
The only fly in the ointment, is that Kenora's new sign by-law prohibit any
new billboards from being erected in the Harbortown area.
Council has decided to set up an ad-hoc committee to look at the issue to
decide whether to allow the electronic billboard or not.
A national advertising company wants to put an electronic billboard up on
the Kenora Harborfront along the C.P. right of way.
Pattison Signs made a pitch to city council to replace the five conventional
billboards along the harborfront, with one electronic one.
Rob Sedgewick is a spokesperson for the company and says the concept is
a good one for the Harbortown area.
The only fly in the ointment, is that Kenora's new sign by-law prohibit any
new billboards from being erected in the Harbortown area.
Council has decided to set up an ad-hoc committee to look at the issue to
decide whether to allow the electronic billboard or not.
Free Parking for Veterans?
There may be no such thing as a free ride, but there is such a thing as
free parking, at lease if you are a military veteran in Kenora.
City council has re-visited a by-law allowing free parking for vets only
on certain days, such as Remembrance Day and D-Day.
Councillor Rod McKay feels anyone who fought for out country should be eligible for free parking.
He says it won't cost the city a lot of money.
There was some concern about people abusing the privaledge, but
Councillor Ron Lunny says the number would be so small, that it
shouldn't be a real issue.
free parking, at lease if you are a military veteran in Kenora.
City council has re-visited a by-law allowing free parking for vets only
on certain days, such as Remembrance Day and D-Day.
Councillor Rod McKay feels anyone who fought for out country should be eligible for free parking.
He says it won't cost the city a lot of money.
There was some concern about people abusing the privaledge, but
Councillor Ron Lunny says the number would be so small, that it
shouldn't be a real issue.
LU closer to getting a Law School
Lakehead University is taking the next step towards getting a law school.
The proposed school's curriculum has received approval from the Law Societies of Canada.
University President Brian Stevenson says the curriculum focuses on aboriginal and resource based economy law.
The final law school decision rests with the Ontario government.
The proposed school's curriculum has received approval from the Law Societies of Canada.
University President Brian Stevenson says the curriculum focuses on aboriginal and resource based economy law.
The final law school decision rests with the Ontario government.
Healthy Food Basket comes to council
The Northwestern Health Unit says there are things City Council can do
to help people live more comfortably on a fixed income.
Health Unit dietician Chelsea Lecain made a presentation to council to
coincide with the Week of Action Against Poverty.
She says their healthy food basket program shows prices have
gone up higher in the Kenora area than anywhere else in Ontario.
Lecain says its costs about 918 dollars to feed a family of four, based on
the healthy food basket.
to help people live more comfortably on a fixed income.
Health Unit dietician Chelsea Lecain made a presentation to council to
coincide with the Week of Action Against Poverty.
She says their healthy food basket program shows prices have
gone up higher in the Kenora area than anywhere else in Ontario.
Lecain says its costs about 918 dollars to feed a family of four, based on
the healthy food basket.
Plans for new land ambulence base coming together
Still no firm decision from the Kenora District Services Board when construction on
a new land ambulence base in Kenora will begin.
The city has given some land beside the new fire hall on Barsky's Hill to the Services
board to build the new facility.
Louis Roussin is the new council representitive on the board and says they still haven't
decided whether to begin construction this year, or next year.
He says the estimated cost of the project is about 2.8 million dollars.
Roussin says the District Services board may go ahead with the design portion of
the project this year, and wait til 2012 to begin construction.
a new land ambulence base in Kenora will begin.
The city has given some land beside the new fire hall on Barsky's Hill to the Services
board to build the new facility.
Louis Roussin is the new council representitive on the board and says they still haven't
decided whether to begin construction this year, or next year.
He says the estimated cost of the project is about 2.8 million dollars.
Roussin says the District Services board may go ahead with the design portion of
the project this year, and wait til 2012 to begin construction.
Bronco hockey teams finish the regular season with a split
Beaver Brae's boys hockey team put a big exclamation mark on their season.The Broncos beat the league leading Fort Frances Muskies 3-2 last night in
a shootout.
With the win Beaver Brae finishes second overall in the Double "A" standings
and now faces Dryden in the First round next week.
Meanwhile, the Bronco Girls dropped a 3-2 decision to the Dryden Eagles in
a shootout. Beaver Brae had already clinched first overall.
In Sioux Lookout, the Warriors edged the Thomas Aquinas boys hockey team 6-5 last night to wrap up the regular season.
The two teams tied for first in the single "a" division, but the Saints will have home ice advantage in the play-offs thanks to a better goals against average.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Council Unwilling to float loan for Paterson Medical Clinic
Kenora city council says its not willing to be the banker for the Paterson Medical Clinic.
The clinic owes the city about 6.8 million dollars for the renovation and expansion of the
medical facility on Tunnel Island.
Councillor Ron Lunny says they want the Kenora Medical Clinic to seek an outside financial
institution to pay the loan off to the city.
Councillor Louis Roussin says while he supports the resolution, he thinks the medical clinic
will find it difficult to find any financial institution which would be willing to foot the entire
loan amount.
The clinic owes the city about 6.8 million dollars for the renovation and expansion of the
medical facility on Tunnel Island.
Councillor Ron Lunny says they want the Kenora Medical Clinic to seek an outside financial
institution to pay the loan off to the city.
Councillor Louis Roussin says while he supports the resolution, he thinks the medical clinic
will find it difficult to find any financial institution which would be willing to foot the entire
loan amount.
Province to Appoint Facilitator to look into Evergreen Closure
Parents at Evergreen School haven't won the war yet, but they have scored
a minor victory.
The Ministry of Education has agreed to appoint a facilitator to look into
the Keewatin-Patricia District School Board's decision to close Evergreen
at the end of this school year.
Patti Letourneau is a member of the parents committee they really don't know
how the process is going to unfold.
The Ministry of Education says it can't overturn the school board's decision, but
it can determine if the public board followed its own processes in closing the
school.
a minor victory.
The Ministry of Education has agreed to appoint a facilitator to look into
the Keewatin-Patricia District School Board's decision to close Evergreen
at the end of this school year.
Patti Letourneau is a member of the parents committee they really don't know
how the process is going to unfold.
The Ministry of Education says it can't overturn the school board's decision, but
it can determine if the public board followed its own processes in closing the
school.
Don't feed the Deer
Problems with deer experienced by some residents in the area over the past few years could be minimized by this winter's snowfall.
Melissa Mosley, a biologist with the Ministry of Natural Resources, says the full impact won't be known for a while, but this year's heavy snowfall will help in keep deer in the bush.
The snow, though, is not impacting on the animal's ability to feed, and area residents should avoid setting up feeding areas.
Melissa Mosley, a biologist with the Ministry of Natural Resources, says the full impact won't be known for a while, but this year's heavy snowfall will help in keep deer in the bush.
The snow, though, is not impacting on the animal's ability to feed, and area residents should avoid setting up feeding areas.
Kenora Hunter Fined illegally hunting wolf
A Kenora area resident has been fined 15 hundred dollars for hunting a wolf
north of town.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says Jaques Choquette was hunting with a group in an area
off Ena Lake Road last October.
Conservation officers came across some photos of a wolf, and upon further investigation
discovered that a wolf had been shot a couple of days previous, but a tag had not been
affixed to the animal.
The wolf carcass had also been abandoned.
Choquette was fined a thousand dollars for abandoning a wolf pelt and 500 dollars for
failing to attach a game seal.
His digital camera and rifle have been seized until the fines are paid up.
north of town.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says Jaques Choquette was hunting with a group in an area
off Ena Lake Road last October.
Conservation officers came across some photos of a wolf, and upon further investigation
discovered that a wolf had been shot a couple of days previous, but a tag had not been
affixed to the animal.
The wolf carcass had also been abandoned.
Choquette was fined a thousand dollars for abandoning a wolf pelt and 500 dollars for
failing to attach a game seal.
His digital camera and rifle have been seized until the fines are paid up.
Relay for Life Hosts Kick-Off event tonight
The Relay For Life for the Canadian Cancer Society will get a kick start this evening.
The kick-off event will take place this evening at the Minis Hall of the Super 8
Andrea Perchuck is co-chair of the local Relay and says they are actively seeking volunteers.
Perchuk says the Relay garnered over 77 thousand dollars last year, and they are hoping to top that
number this year.
The kick-off event will take place this evening at the Minis Hall of the Super 8
Andrea Perchuck is co-chair of the local Relay and says they are actively seeking volunteers.
Perchuk says the Relay garnered over 77 thousand dollars last year, and they are hoping to top that
number this year.
Sharks Claim 88 medals in Fort
It was quite the medal haul for the Kenora Sharks Swim Club.Chill Invitational swim meet.
The Kenora swimmers collected 88 medals in all.
Winnie Boucha topped the leaderboard seven times, and also won a bronze.
Bryn Jones took home six gold and two silver, while Orion Demisse won four gold,
three silver and two bronze.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Three People Fined for Illegal Hunting near Minaki
Three Michigan men have been fined more than seven thousand dollars for illegally
hunting in the Minaki area.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says technicians discovered a couple of deer carcasses
in the ditch out side of Minaki last October.
Conservation officers checked some local tourist lodges and located the men responsible.
They discovered the hunters had removed the antlers but left the rest of the animal to
rot.
Two men have been charged with abandoning a white-tailed deer and also littering.
They each have been fined over 32 hundred dollars and banned from hunting in Ontario for
three years.
A third hunter was fined 750 dollars for allowing deer meat to spoil.
hunting in the Minaki area.
The Ministry of Natural Resources says technicians discovered a couple of deer carcasses
in the ditch out side of Minaki last October.
Conservation officers checked some local tourist lodges and located the men responsible.
They discovered the hunters had removed the antlers but left the rest of the animal to
rot.
Two men have been charged with abandoning a white-tailed deer and also littering.
They each have been fined over 32 hundred dollars and banned from hunting in Ontario for
three years.
A third hunter was fined 750 dollars for allowing deer meat to spoil.
Rickford opposes FedNor Private Members Bill
Kenora MP Greg Rickford says a Private Members Bill to establish FedNor as a permanent regional economic development agency will do nothing but add an unnessary level of buracracy to the system.
The Conservative member voted against Bill C-309 in the House of Commons this week.
Rickford says the current system doesn't need to be fixed.
He stresses the Bill will never see the light of day.
The Conservative member voted against Bill C-309 in the House of Commons this week.
Rickford says the current system doesn't need to be fixed.
He stresses the Bill will never see the light of day.
Five groups band together for Northwestern Ontario Energy Plan
A group of Northwestern Ontario political leaders is now part of a new Energy Task Force.
It consists of the Municipal Association, the Chambers of Commerce, city of Thunder Bay and the Nishnawbe Aski Nation.
NOMA president Ron Nelson says they'll fight for an energy plan for the northwest
Nelson says the northwest needs it's own plan for electricity generation, transmission and pricing
It consists of the Municipal Association, the Chambers of Commerce, city of Thunder Bay and the Nishnawbe Aski Nation.
NOMA president Ron Nelson says they'll fight for an energy plan for the northwest
Nelson says the northwest needs it's own plan for electricity generation, transmission and pricing
School Board Saves Money on Green Energy Projects
Apparently it is easy being green.
The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board says its seen a three percent
reduction in its energy costs in the past year due to a number of different
conservation programs.
Kim Carlson is the school board's facilities manager and says by doing simple
things like upgrading the lighting system, they have been able to save money.
Carlson says the public school board is on the cutting edge in implementing
green technology, and they are being recognized not only in Ontario but
across Canada.
The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board says its seen a three percent
reduction in its energy costs in the past year due to a number of different
conservation programs.
Kim Carlson is the school board's facilities manager and says by doing simple
things like upgrading the lighting system, they have been able to save money.
Carlson says the public school board is on the cutting edge in implementing
green technology, and they are being recognized not only in Ontario but
across Canada.
Ontario's Abitibi Dams Being Sold
It looks like the long talked about sale of the Abitibi dams in Ontario is
about to come to fruition.
AbitibiBowater has announced its has sold a 75 percent share of its
hydro assets in the province, that includes dams in Kenora, Fort Frances
and Iroquois Falls.
The sale price is listed at 300 million dollars.
The unnamed buyer is expected to close the sale in the next 60 days.
Abitibi says it will use the proceeds to help pay off its outstanding debt.
about to come to fruition.
AbitibiBowater has announced its has sold a 75 percent share of its
hydro assets in the province, that includes dams in Kenora, Fort Frances
and Iroquois Falls.
The sale price is listed at 300 million dollars.
The unnamed buyer is expected to close the sale in the next 60 days.
Abitibi says it will use the proceeds to help pay off its outstanding debt.
Kenora Skiiers win Gold at Manitoba Championships
A busy weekend out at Mount Evergreen Ski Club, where the Kenora Nordic Trails hosted a pairof events for the Cross Country Ski Association of Manitoba.
On Saturday, the classic races were held, and a couple of Kenora racers won gold.
Alyson Stoliker won the 1.2 kilometer girls event and also the 1.2 kilometer girls freestyle mass start
yesterday, while Christopher Moose took
the 1.2 kilometer boy race.
It was a Kenora sweep of the medals on the atom girls 1.2 kilometer race, with Shayna
Hensrud claiming top honors. She also won Sunday's 1.2 kilometer freestyle mass start.
In the eight kilometer junior girls race, Samantha Burkhart beat out Maya Boivin for
gold.
Burkhart also won the eight kilometer freestyle event yesterday.
Thistles end regular season on a losing note
The Kenora Triple "a" Midget Thistles go into the play-offs this week on a
five game losing streak.
The Thistles dropped both of their games over the weekend.
They were blanked 2-0 by the Winnipeg Thrasher Friday and 5-2 by
the Eastman Selects on Saturday.
The Thistles will meet up with the Selects starting Thursday in Beausejour
in game one of their preliminary round play-off series.
Meanwhile, Beaver Brae's girls hockey team has clinched first place in the
NorWOSSA double "a" hockey league.
The Broncos came back from a three goal deficit, to beat Fort Frances 5-3.
Meanwhile, the Thomas Aquinas girls hockey team continues to roll along,
beating Dryden 3-1.
five game losing streak.
The Thistles dropped both of their games over the weekend.
They were blanked 2-0 by the Winnipeg Thrasher Friday and 5-2 by
the Eastman Selects on Saturday.
The Thistles will meet up with the Selects starting Thursday in Beausejour
in game one of their preliminary round play-off series.
Meanwhile, Beaver Brae's girls hockey team has clinched first place in the
NorWOSSA double "a" hockey league.
The Broncos came back from a three goal deficit, to beat Fort Frances 5-3.
Meanwhile, the Thomas Aquinas girls hockey team continues to roll along,
beating Dryden 3-1.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Ultimate Fishing Town Contest Returns
The search is on again to find Canada's Ultimate Fishing town.The World Fishing Network contest will begin accepting nominations March 1st.
Spokesperson Shawna Gosevitz says the success of the event last year convinced them to run it again.
Two more Child care agencies merging
Two more child care agencies in northwestern Ontario will be merging their services this spring.The Patricia Center for Children and Youth will be amalgamating with
the Lake of the Woods Child Development Center as of April 1st.
Jackie Mitchell is chair of the board of the Patricia Center and says they are looking forward to combining their resources.
Kenora-Patricia Child and Family Services and Family and District Services of Rainy River will also be merging on April 1st.
Scribilo back as chamber president
The Kenora and District Chamber of Commerce is going to maintain the status
quo for another year.
The business group held its annual general meeting yesterday, and this is
no change in the executive.
Andy Scribilo is back for a second term as president and says having
continuity isn't a bad thing.
Scribilo says the chamber has a busy agenda this spring as it prepares to
host the Northwestern Associated Chambers of Commerce Spring conference
in April, then the Kenora Home and Liesure Show in May.
quo for another year.
The business group held its annual general meeting yesterday, and this is
no change in the executive.
Andy Scribilo is back for a second term as president and says having
continuity isn't a bad thing.
Scribilo says the chamber has a busy agenda this spring as it prepares to
host the Northwestern Associated Chambers of Commerce Spring conference
in April, then the Kenora Home and Liesure Show in May.
Bombers join Kenora and District Chamber of Commerce
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are trying to build back up its image in the region.The Bombers have been heading out into the hinterland to try and re-connect with their fan base.
Bomber president, Jim Bell says its really a win/win situation.
Bell spent the past two days meeting with local business groups and even took out a membership in the Kenora and District Chamber of Commerce.
Northern Health Panel Stops in Dryden
Non-urgent patient transfers continues to be an issue across Northern Ontario.
So says Liz Sandals, the Parliamentary Assistant for the Ministry of Health, who took part in a round-table disscussion on improving the Northern and Rural health care system.
Sandals was in Dryden yesterday and says other concerns were raised.
The Guelph MPP hopes to deliver her list of recommendations to the Government early this Summer.
So says Liz Sandals, the Parliamentary Assistant for the Ministry of Health, who took part in a round-table disscussion on improving the Northern and Rural health care system.
Sandals was in Dryden yesterday and says other concerns were raised.
The Guelph MPP hopes to deliver her list of recommendations to the Government early this Summer.
Bombers visit Lakewood
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are looking forward to a better year in2011.
Four members of the team were in Kenora yesterday to meet with
students at Lakewood School.
Quarterback, Buck Pearce says its good to get out and expand
their fan base.
Pearce was joined by Doug Brown, Glen January and Chris Cvetcovic
on the tour.
Broncos lose three of four to Dryden
The Dryden Eagles continue have Beaver Brae's number.
In the final regular season games of the season, the Broncos lost
three of four games against Dryden yesterday.
The lone win came from the Beaver Brae senior boys basketball team,
which earned a 41-34 victory.
The Bronco junior boys dropped a 56-32 decicison to the Eagles.
In girls volleyball, Beaver Brae's junior and senior teams lost in three
straight sets.
The NorWOSSA play-offs will take place one week from today.
In the final regular season games of the season, the Broncos lost
three of four games against Dryden yesterday.
The lone win came from the Beaver Brae senior boys basketball team,
which earned a 41-34 victory.
The Bronco junior boys dropped a 56-32 decicison to the Eagles.
In girls volleyball, Beaver Brae's junior and senior teams lost in three
straight sets.
The NorWOSSA play-offs will take place one week from today.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Chamber of Commerce hands out Business Awards
A total of 12 local businesses and business owners have been honored by their
colleagues.
The Kenora and District Chamber of Commerce held its annual business
awards ceremony last night.
Mark Skrzypek from Energy Tech Services was named Business Owner of the Year.
Randy Nickle was named entrepreneur of the year, while Jake Garrow from Custom
Drilling was given the Young Entrepreneur award.
Other Award winners:
Mayors Award: Keric Fund
New Business: Boreal Datacom
Tourism/Hospitality: Mount Evergreen Ski Club
Customer Service (Staff over 10 employees): ScotiaBank
Customer Service (Staff under 10 employees): Kitchen and Bath Factory
Environmental Business: North Winds Energy Inc.
Business Improvement: Agnew Chapman Optometric Services
Innovative Small Business: Kenora Design Group
Home Based Business: DC Productions
colleagues.
The Kenora and District Chamber of Commerce held its annual business
awards ceremony last night.
Mark Skrzypek from Energy Tech Services was named Business Owner of the Year.
Randy Nickle was named entrepreneur of the year, while Jake Garrow from Custom
Drilling was given the Young Entrepreneur award.
Other Award winners:
Mayors Award: Keric Fund
New Business: Boreal Datacom
Tourism/Hospitality: Mount Evergreen Ski Club
Customer Service (Staff over 10 employees): ScotiaBank
Customer Service (Staff under 10 employees): Kitchen and Bath Factory
Environmental Business: North Winds Energy Inc.
Business Improvement: Agnew Chapman Optometric Services
Innovative Small Business: Kenora Design Group
Home Based Business: DC Productions
Dragon's Den Host Addresses Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet
Just because there is an economic downturn, doesn't mean its a bad
time to start up a new business.
That was one of the messages delivered by Diane Buckner at the Chamber
Awards Dinner last night.
Buckner is the host of the Dragon's Den and says the key to starting up a
new business is to know your market.
Buckner will be making another presentation this morning about the
art of the pitch, at a brunch sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.
time to start up a new business.
That was one of the messages delivered by Diane Buckner at the Chamber
Awards Dinner last night.
Buckner is the host of the Dragon's Den and says the key to starting up a
new business is to know your market.
Buckner will be making another presentation this morning about the
art of the pitch, at a brunch sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.
Rainy River Resources to make a pitch in England
A mining project south of Kenora will be get some international attention next week.
Rainy River Resources will be among companies scheduled to make a presentation about their projects at a conference in London, England.
The conference allows companies to meet with potential overseas investors.
Rainy River Resources is proposing a gold mine north of Barwick.
Rainy River Resources will be among companies scheduled to make a presentation about their projects at a conference in London, England.
The conference allows companies to meet with potential overseas investors.
Rainy River Resources is proposing a gold mine north of Barwick.
Public School Board posts Suplus in 2010
The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board finished the last fiscal year in the
black.
Trustees were presented the audited financial statement for 2010 at last night's
board meeting.
Finance Manager Kathleen O'Flaherty says they actually posted a fairly healthy
surplus.
O'flaherty says of their 16 million dollar surplus, 14 million will go directly to
pay for the new elementary school in Dryden.
black.
Trustees were presented the audited financial statement for 2010 at last night's
board meeting.
Finance Manager Kathleen O'Flaherty says they actually posted a fairly healthy
surplus.
O'flaherty says of their 16 million dollar surplus, 14 million will go directly to
pay for the new elementary school in Dryden.
Making Kenora Home Launches Poverty Challenge
The Making Kenora Home Commitee has selected 12 local Kenora residents and given them a challenge.They are going to be given 35 dollars to live on for 5 days.
Chair of the Communications commitee Dan Jorgensen says they want people to know what it's like to live on Social Asisstance.
Jorgensen says that they are also going to be given a daily challenge card which could be anything from buying toothpaste to getting ready for a job interview.
The challenge begins tomorrow and wraps up on February 16th.
Six medals for Kenora Skiiers At NWOSSA
Kenora Skiiers took home six medals from the NWOSSA cross country ski championships
at Mount Evergreen.
Despite bitterly cold conditions, local racers claimed gold, silver and bronze in the junior girls
race.
Sammi Burkart finished first, followed by Maya Boivin and Keisha Strachen.
In the Senior girls event, Manon Magnon won the gold, while Kaitie Dennis claimed
silver.
Erick Lockhart won the gold medal in the shortened senior boys six kilometer race.
at Mount Evergreen.
Despite bitterly cold conditions, local racers claimed gold, silver and bronze in the junior girls
race.
Sammi Burkart finished first, followed by Maya Boivin and Keisha Strachen.
In the Senior girls event, Manon Magnon won the gold, while Kaitie Dennis claimed
silver.
Erick Lockhart won the gold medal in the shortened senior boys six kilometer race.
Thistles lose in Winnipeg
The Kenora Triple "A" Midget Thistles have extended their losing streak to three
games.
The Thistles were in Winnipeg last night and were shelled 7-2 by the Wild.
The local midget squad wraps up the regular season at home with a pair of
games at home this weekend.
games.
The Thistles were in Winnipeg last night and were shelled 7-2 by the Wild.
The local midget squad wraps up the regular season at home with a pair of
games at home this weekend.
Broncos lose three of four on the road
Beaver Brae's court teams managed just one win in Fort Frances in their last
road trip of the regular season.
The Bronco senior boys basketball team was upended 53-31, while the junior
squad lost by ten points.
In girls volleyball, Beaver Brae's junior girls won the only game of the day, downing
the Muskies three sets to one.
The Bronco senior girls lost three sets to one.
Beaver Brae wraps up the regular season on home court today with Dryden in town.
road trip of the regular season.
The Bronco senior boys basketball team was upended 53-31, while the junior
squad lost by ten points.
In girls volleyball, Beaver Brae's junior girls won the only game of the day, downing
the Muskies three sets to one.
The Bronco senior girls lost three sets to one.
Beaver Brae wraps up the regular season on home court today with Dryden in town.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Aerial Moose Survey Wrapping Up
The annual aerial moose survey is underway in Northwestern Ontario.
Ministry of Natural Resources wildlife biologist Brad Allison says they're trying to see if certain trends are continuing this year, which includes low numbers in the Kenora and Fort Frances areas.
In recent years, brainworm has killed off a number of moose in the local area.
Allison says it's been an ideal winter for the survey because of the early snow cover
Ministry of Natural Resources wildlife biologist Brad Allison says they're trying to see if certain trends are continuing this year, which includes low numbers in the Kenora and Fort Frances areas.
In recent years, brainworm has killed off a number of moose in the local area.
Allison says it's been an ideal winter for the survey because of the early snow cover
TBSO celebrates 50th Anniversary in Kenora
The Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra is celebrating its 50th birthday
this year.
The TBSO is in Kenora tonight for its annual concert.
Arthur Post is the new conductor and says he's looking forward
to his first tour with the musicians.
The Thunder Bay Symphony will be playing Knox United Church this
evening.
this year.
The TBSO is in Kenora tonight for its annual concert.
Arthur Post is the new conductor and says he's looking forward
to his first tour with the musicians.
The Thunder Bay Symphony will be playing Knox United Church this
evening.
Public School Board Tackles Student Mental Health
The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board is taking a pro-active approach to dealing with student mental
health issues.
The public school board is working with a couple of local child care agencies to come
up with a Children's Mental Health Strategy.
Peter Harland is a retired pediatrician and says about a third of kids show signs of mental
health problems, such as anxiety, depression or worse.
The public school board is working with the Lake of the Woods Child Development Center
and the Patricia Center for Children and Youth on the Children's Mental Health Strategy.
health issues.
The public school board is working with a couple of local child care agencies to come
up with a Children's Mental Health Strategy.
Peter Harland is a retired pediatrician and says about a third of kids show signs of mental
health problems, such as anxiety, depression or worse.
The public school board is working with the Lake of the Woods Child Development Center
and the Patricia Center for Children and Youth on the Children's Mental Health Strategy.
Bed Shortage Continues at Lake of the Woods Hospital
Lake of the Woods District Hospital says it hasn't seen a lot of relief in the
use of its beds in the past few months.
Chief Executive Officer Marc Belcaen says as of the end of January they still
had 25 so-called Alternate Level of Care Patients, eight of which were waiting
for a long term care bed to open up locally.
The other 17 patients are rehabilitiating, but Belcaen says its possible they will
also soon be on the waiting list for a long term care bed.
He adds they still haven't heard any word from the Northwest Local Health Integration
about opening up any new long term care beds in Kenora.
An announcement had been expected early in the new year.
use of its beds in the past few months.
Chief Executive Officer Marc Belcaen says as of the end of January they still
had 25 so-called Alternate Level of Care Patients, eight of which were waiting
for a long term care bed to open up locally.
The other 17 patients are rehabilitiating, but Belcaen says its possible they will
also soon be on the waiting list for a long term care bed.
He adds they still haven't heard any word from the Northwest Local Health Integration
about opening up any new long term care beds in Kenora.
An announcement had been expected early in the new year.
New Board of Health In Place
The Northwestern Health Unit has sworn in a new Board of Directors.
The Board features 4-new appointees.
John Albanese has been acclaimed as Chair, while Julie Roy will continue to serve as Vice-Chair.
Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield is one of the new appointees to the board of health.
Bill Thompson from the Township of Sioux Narrows/Nestor Falls will continue to
represent his community, while Mel Fisher is the representitive for Vermillion Bay and Dryden.
The Board features 4-new appointees.
John Albanese has been acclaimed as Chair, while Julie Roy will continue to serve as Vice-Chair.
Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield is one of the new appointees to the board of health.
Bill Thompson from the Township of Sioux Narrows/Nestor Falls will continue to
represent his community, while Mel Fisher is the representitive for Vermillion Bay and Dryden.
Hospital says its in compliance with new regulations on Consultants
Lake of the Woods District Hospital feels its in compliance with new
legislation being drafted by the provincial government regarding the
hiring of consultants.
The legislation is scheduled to go into effect as of April 1st, and will
make instititutions that recieve public funds more accountable how they
spend their money.
Chief Executive officer Marc Belcaen says they rarely use consulants,
and doesn't feel they will have any problem with the new regulations.
He adds they are still waiting for clarification about whether professions
such as lawyers and accountants who conduct audits are considered consultants
under the new bill.
legislation being drafted by the provincial government regarding the
hiring of consultants.
The legislation is scheduled to go into effect as of April 1st, and will
make instititutions that recieve public funds more accountable how they
spend their money.
Chief Executive officer Marc Belcaen says they rarely use consulants,
and doesn't feel they will have any problem with the new regulations.
He adds they are still waiting for clarification about whether professions
such as lawyers and accountants who conduct audits are considered consultants
under the new bill.
KDMA adopts a couple of resolutions
Municipal leaders in the Kenora District have given their backing to an emergency
resolution calling on the federal and provincial governments to move ahead
as quickly as possible with the double-laning of the Trans-Canada Highway in
northestern Ontario.
Kenora City council brought the resolution forward over the weekend at the
KDMA annual conference in Red Lake.
Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield says support for the resolution shows the
need for the city to continue to support the work of the KDMA.
One other resolution supported by KDMA called on the federal and provincial
levels of government to expand cellular phone service into smaller communities
such as Pickle Lake.
resolution calling on the federal and provincial governments to move ahead
as quickly as possible with the double-laning of the Trans-Canada Highway in
northestern Ontario.
Kenora City council brought the resolution forward over the weekend at the
KDMA annual conference in Red Lake.
Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield says support for the resolution shows the
need for the city to continue to support the work of the KDMA.
One other resolution supported by KDMA called on the federal and provincial
levels of government to expand cellular phone service into smaller communities
such as Pickle Lake.
Dryden woman killed in weekend fire Identified
Dryden Police say foul play is not suspected in a fatal fire at a women's shelter early Sunday morning.
However, Police say the investigation into the cause has ruled out an accidentally caused fire.
50-year-old Darlene Chartrand died in Hospital from smoke inhalation.
Nine others were treated and released from Hospital.
The fire caused roughly 100-thousand dollars in damage.
The Van Horne Avenue apartment complex is for abused women and their families.
However, Police say the investigation into the cause has ruled out an accidentally caused fire.
50-year-old Darlene Chartrand died in Hospital from smoke inhalation.
Nine others were treated and released from Hospital.
The fire caused roughly 100-thousand dollars in damage.
The Van Horne Avenue apartment complex is for abused women and their families.
Saints Edge Fort
The Thomas Aquinas Girls hockey team seems to have Fort Frances' number.The Saints edged the Muskies 4-3 last night at the Keewatin Arena.
Their next game is Friday in Dryden against the Eagles.
Saints soar past Falcons
The regular NorWOSSA court sport season is quickly winding down.
The Thomas Aquinas Saints have just two league games left before the play-offs begin next week.
Yesterday, the Saints swept the Ignace Falcons at home.
The T.A. junior boys basketball team cruised to a 56-30 victory.
Patrick Van Bellingham had 15 points to lead the Saints offense.
In girls volleyball action, both the Thomas Aquinas junior and senior girls beat Ignace three sets to none.
The final home game of the regular season is tomorrow against Whitefish Bay.
The Thomas Aquinas Saints have just two league games left before the play-offs begin next week.
Yesterday, the Saints swept the Ignace Falcons at home.
The T.A. junior boys basketball team cruised to a 56-30 victory.
Patrick Van Bellingham had 15 points to lead the Saints offense.
In girls volleyball action, both the Thomas Aquinas junior and senior girls beat Ignace three sets to none.
The final home game of the regular season is tomorrow against Whitefish Bay.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Chamber awards tomorrow
The Kenora and District Chamber of Commerce will honor some of its best and
brightest at its annual awards banquet this week.
A total of 45 businesses have been nominated in 12 categories, including best
home based business, customer excellence, young entrepreneur, business owner of the
year, new business and environmental business award.
The Chamber awards will be presented tomorrow night at the Best Western Lakeside Inn at their annual general meeting.
brightest at its annual awards banquet this week.
A total of 45 businesses have been nominated in 12 categories, including best
home based business, customer excellence, young entrepreneur, business owner of the
year, new business and environmental business award.
The Chamber awards will be presented tomorrow night at the Best Western Lakeside Inn at their annual general meeting.
Hospital still in the black
Lake of the Woods District Hospital continues to show a surplus on its operations
this year.
After three quarters of this fiscal year, the hospital is about 331 thousand dollars
in the black.
Chief Executive Officer, Marc Belcaen says they still expect to remain in a surplus
situation by the end of the fiscal year at the end of March.
He adds that the hospital does tend to spend more during the winter months, due to
higher utility costs, and revenues are lower, which will cut into their surplus.
this year.
After three quarters of this fiscal year, the hospital is about 331 thousand dollars
in the black.
Chief Executive Officer, Marc Belcaen says they still expect to remain in a surplus
situation by the end of the fiscal year at the end of March.
He adds that the hospital does tend to spend more during the winter months, due to
higher utility costs, and revenues are lower, which will cut into their surplus.
Three arrested in local drug bust
A total of four people have been arrested following two separate drug
seizures in the Kenora area.
In one incident, a 34 year old Quebec man and two Kenora residents were taken
into custody after the OPP's Organized Crime and the Street Crimes Units
executed a search warrent on a residence in downtown Kenora.
Officers seized a quantity of drugs including 21 grams of hash, more than 100 grams
of marihuana, two grams of morphine and a small quantity of Methadone.
Police also discovered over 700 in cash as well as other drug paraphernalia.
34 year old Dany Chartrand, 28 year old Vernon Jack and Ashley Noname have
been charged with possession of a narcotic, trafficking, and possession of
property obtained by crime.
They are due to appear in Kenora Court next month.
seizures in the Kenora area.
In one incident, a 34 year old Quebec man and two Kenora residents were taken
into custody after the OPP's Organized Crime and the Street Crimes Units
executed a search warrent on a residence in downtown Kenora.
Officers seized a quantity of drugs including 21 grams of hash, more than 100 grams
of marihuana, two grams of morphine and a small quantity of Methadone.
Police also discovered over 700 in cash as well as other drug paraphernalia.
34 year old Dany Chartrand, 28 year old Vernon Jack and Ashley Noname have
been charged with possession of a narcotic, trafficking, and possession of
property obtained by crime.
They are due to appear in Kenora Court next month.
Horwath continues to call for HST relief on Home Heating bills
The Leader of the Provincial NDP is taking another shot at the HST.
Andrea Horwath made a quick stop in northwestern Ontario yesterday and says scrapping the HST on home heating bills would benefit people across the region.
She says the McGuinty government is out of touch.
Horwath says the HST is costing people in the Northwest 50-60 dollars each month in extra heating costs.
Andrea Horwath made a quick stop in northwestern Ontario yesterday and says scrapping the HST on home heating bills would benefit people across the region.
She says the McGuinty government is out of touch.
Horwath says the HST is costing people in the Northwest 50-60 dollars each month in extra heating costs.
A new Executive Council for KDMA
Red Lake mayor Phil Vinet has been returned as the president of the Kenora
District Municipal Association.
The 70th annual KDMA conference was held in Red Lake over the weekend.
Vinet had been the acting president of the municipal organization.
Roy Hoffman of Pickle Lake is first vice-president, while former Kenora
resident, Kevin Kahoot, the new mayor of Ear Falls is second vice.
Next year's KDMA convention will take place in Sioux Lookout to help
celebrate that's town's 100th birthday.
District Municipal Association.
The 70th annual KDMA conference was held in Red Lake over the weekend.
Vinet had been the acting president of the municipal organization.
Roy Hoffman of Pickle Lake is first vice-president, while former Kenora
resident, Kevin Kahoot, the new mayor of Ear Falls is second vice.
Next year's KDMA convention will take place in Sioux Lookout to help
celebrate that's town's 100th birthday.
Dryden Woman Dies in House Fire
A 50-year-old woman is dead following a fire at a Dryden Apartment complex.
Dryden Fire and Police were dispatched to the blaze early Sunday morning.
Crews arrived and found smoke billowing from a second floor window.
Firefighters broke into the unit and fought the blaze, only to find an unconsious woman.
She was transported to Hospital where she was pronounced dead.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Nine other people were treated for smoke inhalation.
Dryden Fire and Police were dispatched to the blaze early Sunday morning.
Crews arrived and found smoke billowing from a second floor window.
Firefighters broke into the unit and fought the blaze, only to find an unconsious woman.
She was transported to Hospital where she was pronounced dead.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Nine other people were treated for smoke inhalation.
Council decides to Finance new fire hall internally
After much debate, city council has decided to fund the long-term debenture for the Kenora Fire Hall.Council held a special meeting this morning and agreed to borrow money from the Citizan's propertity fund to finance the five million dollar building.
Councillor Ron Lunny says its better to finance the debenture internally rather than externally.
Mayor Dave Canfield admits he has mixed feelings on the 20 year loan, which will pay the city three percent a year.
Council was almost unanimous in the decision.
Louis Roussin voted against, saying the Citizans Prosperity fund was never intended to pay for public projects.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Council Meets This Morning
Five members of Kenora city council are back from Red Lake and the 70th
annual Kenora District Municipal Association.
They will be put right back to work this morning.
A special meeting of council is scheduled for 9:00 this morning.
There is only one item on the agenda.
Council will be talking about how to pay for the new Kenora Fire
Hall on Barsky's Hill.
The previous edition of council had planned to take a debenture out
on the building, but some members of the new council say they would
prefer to borrow internally from city reserves.
annual Kenora District Municipal Association.
They will be put right back to work this morning.
A special meeting of council is scheduled for 9:00 this morning.
There is only one item on the agenda.
Council will be talking about how to pay for the new Kenora Fire
Hall on Barsky's Hill.
The previous edition of council had planned to take a debenture out
on the building, but some members of the new council say they would
prefer to borrow internally from city reserves.
Gravelle hopes for Compromise in Land Use Fee Issue
Michael Gravelle says he's working to find a compromise in an area tourist outfitters dispute.
The Northern Development Minister says he understands how upset some the some outfitters are upset over increased government fees, especially since it was their own association that recommended them
Gravelle hopes to find a solution that will be agreeable to all sides
The Northern Development Minister says he understands how upset some the some outfitters are upset over increased government fees, especially since it was their own association that recommended them
Gravelle hopes to find a solution that will be agreeable to all sides
No Chronic Wasting Disease in NWO
Nearly 14-hundred deer heads were tested for chronic wasting disease last year in Ontario.
Ministry of Natural Resources Wildlife Research Technician Tore Buchanan says 362 deer heads were tested in the Dryden, Kenora and Fort Frances Districts.
The results weren't surprising according to Buchanan.
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal disease affecting members of the deer family.
Ministry of Natural Resources Wildlife Research Technician Tore Buchanan says 362 deer heads were tested in the Dryden, Kenora and Fort Frances Districts.
The results weren't surprising according to Buchanan.
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal disease affecting members of the deer family.
Body Found on Lower Manitou Lake
A post-mortem exam is scheduled to take place today at Lake of the Woods District Hospital
on the body of a man found in Lower Manitou Lake, southeast of Kenora.
74 year Ted Davis of Fort Frances disappeared last week while operating a trail groomer
on the lake.
On Saturday afternoon shortly after 1:00, and OPP Dive Team found his body in the
depths of the lake.
Davis was working for Manitou Gold at the time, and was building an ice road.
The Ontario Ministry of Labor is also investigating the accident.
on the body of a man found in Lower Manitou Lake, southeast of Kenora.
74 year Ted Davis of Fort Frances disappeared last week while operating a trail groomer
on the lake.
On Saturday afternoon shortly after 1:00, and OPP Dive Team found his body in the
depths of the lake.
Davis was working for Manitou Gold at the time, and was building an ice road.
The Ontario Ministry of Labor is also investigating the accident.
PeeWee Thistles win Stonewall Tourney
Home ice held no advantage for the Kenora Triple "a" Thistles.
Back at the Thistle Rink after a seven game road trip, the Kenora Midgets
dropped a pair of games to the Interlake Lightning over the weekend.
Yesterday, the Thistles were beaten 6-2.
Saturday night, it was the Lightning over the Thistles 3-1.
The regular season wraps up next weekend with a pair of games at
home for the Kenora Midgets.
Meanwhile, the Kenora Double "a" Peewee Thistles took top honors
from a tournament in Stonewall, Manitoba.
The Thistles beat Morden 3-1 in the A-side final.
Back at the Thistle Rink after a seven game road trip, the Kenora Midgets
dropped a pair of games to the Interlake Lightning over the weekend.
Yesterday, the Thistles were beaten 6-2.
Saturday night, it was the Lightning over the Thistles 3-1.
The regular season wraps up next weekend with a pair of games at
home for the Kenora Midgets.
Meanwhile, the Kenora Double "a" Peewee Thistles took top honors
from a tournament in Stonewall, Manitoba.
The Thistles beat Morden 3-1 in the A-side final.
Saints Girls Volleyball Squad wins Thunder Bay Tourney
A big weekend for the Thomas Aquinas senior girls volleyball team.The Saints were in Thunder Bay for the Thunderwolves Invitational Tournament
at Lakehead University.
T.A. went through the tournament without dropping a set, and won the gold medal with a straight sets win over St. Ignatius from Thunder Bay.
Becky Elliot was named the tournament MVP, while three other members of the Saints
were named to the tournament all-star team.Meanwhile, the Thomas Aquinas Boys hockey team compiled a 2-1 record at a tournament
in Duluth, Minnesota.
The Saints tied for 5th overall out of 15 teams entered in the Junior Gold A tournament.
In their final game, the Saints got by at team from Blaine, Minnesota 4-3.
Meanwhile, the Saints girls hockey team was in Sioux Lookout over the weekend, and skated
to an easy 13-2 victory.
Two Kenora Figure Skaters Qualify for Provincials
Three medals for the Kenora Figure Skating Club at the Festival of Stars in
Sault Ste. Marie.
Kelsey Scribilo won a silver in the Senior Ladies event, and then collected a bronze
in the Gold Triathon.
Julia Withers also placed second in the Silver Triathlon.
Both skaters have now qualified for the Provincial Silver Star Skate in Mississauga
next month.
Sault Ste. Marie.
Kelsey Scribilo won a silver in the Senior Ladies event, and then collected a bronze
in the Gold Triathon.
Julia Withers also placed second in the Silver Triathlon.
Both skaters have now qualified for the Provincial Silver Star Skate in Mississauga
next month.
Hospital looking for new board members
A campaign to attract new members to the Lake of the Woods District Hospital has
been launched.
A number of ads have been posted asking local residents to purchase corporate
members prior to the Hospital Board's Annual General meeting.
Vice-chair of the Hospital board Fred Richardson says its a challenging, but rewarding
job.
Corporate memberships cost just five dollars, but anyone wanting to become a director
on the Hospital Board has to purchase a membership at least 60 days prior to the board
elections in June.
been launched.
A number of ads have been posted asking local residents to purchase corporate
members prior to the Hospital Board's Annual General meeting.
Vice-chair of the Hospital board Fred Richardson says its a challenging, but rewarding
job.
Corporate memberships cost just five dollars, but anyone wanting to become a director
on the Hospital Board has to purchase a membership at least 60 days prior to the board
elections in June.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Government Under Fire for OPP pay raise
The governing Liberals are under fire for agreeing to a 5-percent pay hike for the OPP while demanding a wage freeze from public sector workers.
Municipal leaders across the region have called the increase`irresponsible'' and putting towns and cities, which have to pay for policing, in a tight spot.
Premier Dalton McGuinty is insisting his plan to curb salaries is still on track.
Last spring's budget called for a 2-year freeze on wages for more than a million public sector workers to help fight a record Provincial deficit of about 20-billion dollars.
Municipal leaders across the region have called the increase`irresponsible'' and putting towns and cities, which have to pay for policing, in a tight spot.
Premier Dalton McGuinty is insisting his plan to curb salaries is still on track.
Last spring's budget called for a 2-year freeze on wages for more than a million public sector workers to help fight a record Provincial deficit of about 20-billion dollars.
Hospitals get more funding for joint replacement
The Northwest Local Health Integration Network is promising more money for knee and hip replacement surgeries in Kenora, Fort Frances and Dryden.However, Lake of the Woods District Hospital doesn't think it will be able to take advantage of the of the extra funding.
Chief Executive Officer, Marc Belcaen says they don't have the same demand for the surgeries as other hospitals in the region.
The LHIN's is providing 275 thousand dollars to carry out 40 more knee and hip replacement surgeries in the region.
Local Nurses train in Smoking Cessation Techniques
A valuable day of information for health care professionals across the region.
Roughly 50 people participated in a Nurses Association of Ontario 'Smoke Free' Workshop this week.
Public Health Nurse Sue Wood says their goal was to train nurses so they can improve their smoking cessation and brief intervention techniques.
The Nurses Association stresses when nurses intervene, smokers quit.
Roughly 50 people participated in a Nurses Association of Ontario 'Smoke Free' Workshop this week.
Public Health Nurse Sue Wood says their goal was to train nurses so they can improve their smoking cessation and brief intervention techniques.
The Nurses Association stresses when nurses intervene, smokers quit.
OHA head meets with local hospital CEO's
The Ontario Hospital Association is touring Northwestern Ontario this week.
President Tom Closson met with hospital CEO's from across the region yesterday.
Closson says hospitals continue to struggle with patients taking up beds because
they don't have anywhere else to go.
Closson is also asking for a freeze in salaries for unionized hospital workers.
President Tom Closson met with hospital CEO's from across the region yesterday.
Closson says hospitals continue to struggle with patients taking up beds because
they don't have anywhere else to go.
Closson is also asking for a freeze in salaries for unionized hospital workers.
Camp owner upset with NOTO
It looks like it's a war of words between the Northwestern Ontario Tourist Outfitters and some camp owners in northwestern Ontario.
Paul Boucher of Ogoki Frontier Outpost says many resorts feel betrayed by the outfitters association after their land use permit fees went up 800 percent.
Boucher says NOTO had a choice and they chose wrong.
NOTO was responsible for negotiating the rental fee system with the Provincial government.
Paul Boucher of Ogoki Frontier Outpost says many resorts feel betrayed by the outfitters association after their land use permit fees went up 800 percent.
Boucher says NOTO had a choice and they chose wrong.
NOTO was responsible for negotiating the rental fee system with the Provincial government.
Search continues for missing man Southeast of Kenora
A Fort Frances man is the subject of a search at a lake southeast of Kenora.
Provincial police are releasing few details, but Manitou Gold, a mining exploration company doing work in the Manitou chain of lakes, says a vehicle broke through the ice near its exploration project early Wednesday morning.
The company says the man working on its behalf.
His name has not been officially released.
Ontario's Ministry of Labour has also been called to investigate.
Provincial police are releasing few details, but Manitou Gold, a mining exploration company doing work in the Manitou chain of lakes, says a vehicle broke through the ice near its exploration project early Wednesday morning.
The company says the man working on its behalf.
His name has not been officially released.
Ontario's Ministry of Labour has also been called to investigate.
KDMA conference begins today in Red Lake
The 70th annual Kenora District Municipal Association Convention gets underway
today in Red Lake.
Unlike in past years, the City of Kenora is sending a full delegation this year.
Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield says these conferences are important and would
like to see the city take a more active role in the future.
Canfield says councillors will be bringing an emergency resolution to KDMA, asking
the federal and provincial government's to proceed with the twinning of the Trans-Canada
Highway between the Manitoba Border and the Kenora By-Pass.
today in Red Lake.
Unlike in past years, the City of Kenora is sending a full delegation this year.
Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield says these conferences are important and would
like to see the city take a more active role in the future.
Canfield says councillors will be bringing an emergency resolution to KDMA, asking
the federal and provincial government's to proceed with the twinning of the Trans-Canada
Highway between the Manitoba Border and the Kenora By-Pass.
Broncos split with Muskies
Beaver Brae's Court Sport teams managed a split in their games against 
Fort Frances on home court yesterday.
Fort Frances on home court yesterday.The Bronco junior boys earned a 32-16 victory over the Muskies.
Adam Chartrand led the way with 16 points.
The Beaver Brae senior boys dropped a 62-36 decision.
In girls volleyball, the Broncos junior girls got by Fort three games to two,
while the Muskies blanked the senior squad three sets to none.
Today, the annual Kenora Invitational Senior Boys basketball tournament
gets underway up at Beaver Brae.
The Thomas Aquinas Saints hockey team extracted a measure of revenge against
Sioux Lookout last night.
T.A. edged the Warriors 6-5 last night at the Thistle Rink.
The win gives the Saints a 3-2 edged in the season series between the two teams with just one game left in the regular season.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Schools Building Schools Holds Virtual Ground Breaking Ceremony
A virtual ground breaking ceremony has taken place for the Schools Building Schools
project.
Five high schools in Kenora, Dryden, Sioux Lookout and Ignace have raised 17 thousand
dollars to help build a new school in a tiny community in Guatamaula.
Gord LeMaistre is a member of the Kenora Rotary Club and says he was impressed with
the students fundraising efforts.
Amanda Wiebe is the chair of the Schools Building Schools committee at Thomas Aquinas
and says they managed to raise six thousand dollars for the project.
The money helped build a new two room school in the central american country along with
new washroom facilities.
project.
Five high schools in Kenora, Dryden, Sioux Lookout and Ignace have raised 17 thousand
dollars to help build a new school in a tiny community in Guatamaula.
Gord LeMaistre is a member of the Kenora Rotary Club and says he was impressed with
the students fundraising efforts.
Amanda Wiebe is the chair of the Schools Building Schools committee at Thomas Aquinas
and says they managed to raise six thousand dollars for the project.
The money helped build a new two room school in the central american country along with
new washroom facilities.
Questions Raised about new Internet Rates
A northwestern Ontario politician is raising alarm bells about a CRTC decision about
internet rates.
The broadcast regulator says it's okay for internet service providers to put a cap on data downloads.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty says there is a move to get the government
to reverse the policy
Rafferty says such a policy will be disastrous for people in northern Ontario who rely on the Internet
internet rates.
The broadcast regulator says it's okay for internet service providers to put a cap on data downloads.
Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty says there is a move to get the government
to reverse the policy
Rafferty says such a policy will be disastrous for people in northern Ontario who rely on the Internet
Sioux Lookout Hunters Fined
Tag sharing and providing false information has proved costly for 2-Sioux Lookout men.
The hunters have been fined 45-hundred dollars for various offences.
Court heard that Conservation officers responded to a complaint last November of shots heard in Sioux Lookout.
Officers investigated and found Gregory Marino loading an antlered deer into the back of his pick-up truck.
The animal was tagged with a seal belonging to Carl Bober, who was at work at the time.
Despite having a valid deer seal himself, Marino called Bober and asked for his seal.
Both men made numerous false statements to officers.
The hunters have been fined 45-hundred dollars for various offences.
Court heard that Conservation officers responded to a complaint last November of shots heard in Sioux Lookout.
Officers investigated and found Gregory Marino loading an antlered deer into the back of his pick-up truck.
The animal was tagged with a seal belonging to Carl Bober, who was at work at the time.
Despite having a valid deer seal himself, Marino called Bober and asked for his seal.
Both men made numerous false statements to officers.
Fort Frances Man Survives Trip to Egypt
A northwestern Ontario man is back from Cairo where he says he saw humanity at its worst.
Tristin Hutton says it was chaos on the streets.
The 44-year-old from Fort Frances says he watched rolling battles between police and protesters from his hotel window.
Police used water cannons and tear gas on the protesters who set fire to police vehicles, and fought back with rocks and bats.
He says he didn't see anyone killed but talked to people who did and saw pictures of people being crushed by police vehicles.
The bush pilot was in Egypt on holiday and was visiting his sister who works at the Canadian Embassy.
Tristin Hutton says it was chaos on the streets.
The 44-year-old from Fort Frances says he watched rolling battles between police and protesters from his hotel window.
Police used water cannons and tear gas on the protesters who set fire to police vehicles, and fought back with rocks and bats.
He says he didn't see anyone killed but talked to people who did and saw pictures of people being crushed by police vehicles.
The bush pilot was in Egypt on holiday and was visiting his sister who works at the Canadian Embassy.
Rat Portage Charges Non Residents for Ice Road Access
The Rat Portage First Nation says its now charging non-band members for use of the
ice road through their community.
As of February 1st, the band has set up manned check points at the Gap Road and the Matheson Bay
entrances to the First Nation.
A toll of 25 dollars a day is being charged to drive on the ice road.
A monthly permit of 50 dollars, or a seasonal pass for 75 dollars are also available.
The access passes can be purchased at the Rat Portage Band office.
ice road through their community.
As of February 1st, the band has set up manned check points at the Gap Road and the Matheson Bay
entrances to the First Nation.
A toll of 25 dollars a day is being charged to drive on the ice road.
A monthly permit of 50 dollars, or a seasonal pass for 75 dollars are also available.
The access passes can be purchased at the Rat Portage Band office.
NOTO Defends new Land Use Permit costs
There are a lot of unhappy campers in Northwestern Ontario.
Several area outfitters have written to the Premier upset about an increase to their land use permit fees.
NOTO Executive Director Doug Reynolds says his organization has been listening to the concerns of tourist outfitters from this region.
Reynolds says the industry knew the fees were coming for over three years and he negotiated the best deal he could.
Several area outfitters have written to the Premier upset about an increase to their land use permit fees.
NOTO Executive Director Doug Reynolds says his organization has been listening to the concerns of tourist outfitters from this region.
Reynolds says the industry knew the fees were coming for over three years and he negotiated the best deal he could.
Stand Off Ends Peacefully near Pickle Lake
An 18-year-old man is in custody following an armed stand-off at the Band Office in New Osnaburgh First Nation.
Nishnawbe-Aski Police received a call of an armed suspect at the Security office around 3:30 yesterday morning.
The OPP Crisis Negotiation Team and OPP Tactics and Rescue Unit were called in to assist officers.
The incident was resolved peacefully 8-hours later, with no shots fired.
No formal charges have yet to be laid.
Nishnawbe-Aski Police received a call of an armed suspect at the Security office around 3:30 yesterday morning.
The OPP Crisis Negotiation Team and OPP Tactics and Rescue Unit were called in to assist officers.
The incident was resolved peacefully 8-hours later, with no shots fired.
No formal charges have yet to be laid.
Broncos lose four on the road
It wasn't a good day on the court for Beaver Brae's boys basketball
and girls volleyball teams.
The Broncos were in Dryden yesterday and came away without a win.
In senior boys basketball, The Eagles edged Beaver Brae 32-26.
The Bronco junior boys were upeneded 60-38.
In volleyball action, the Dryden senior girls won in three straight set,
while the Beaver Brae junior girls lost three sets to one.
The Broncos don't have a lot of time to lick their wounds.
All four teams are back in action today with Fort Frances in town.
and girls volleyball teams.
The Broncos were in Dryden yesterday and came away without a win.
In senior boys basketball, The Eagles edged Beaver Brae 32-26.
The Bronco junior boys were upeneded 60-38.
In volleyball action, the Dryden senior girls won in three straight set,
while the Beaver Brae junior girls lost three sets to one.
The Broncos don't have a lot of time to lick their wounds.
All four teams are back in action today with Fort Frances in town.
Thistles lose in Winnipeg
The Kenora Triple "a" midget Thistles will be happy to play at home
again.
The Thistles wrapped up a seven game road swing last night with a
4-1 lost to the Winnipeg Thrashers.
Bowen Alcock scored the lone goal for the Kenora Midgets.
The Thistles are back home this weekend with a pair of games
against the Interlake Lightning.
again.
The Thistles wrapped up a seven game road swing last night with a
4-1 lost to the Winnipeg Thrashers.
Bowen Alcock scored the lone goal for the Kenora Midgets.
The Thistles are back home this weekend with a pair of games
against the Interlake Lightning.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Morning accident on the Redditt Road
Traffic has been moving slower than usual on the Redditt Road this morning.
A two vehicle collision closed Highway 658 down for about an hour.
The road has since been re-opened to two lane traffic.
No other details about the collision have been released.
Meanwhile, the accident has caused some delays for school bus service
along the Redditt Road.
Excel Coachlines says its number 13, 14 and 16 buses are running about
30 minutes behind schedule.
A two vehicle collision closed Highway 658 down for about an hour.
The road has since been re-opened to two lane traffic.
No other details about the collision have been released.
Meanwhile, the accident has caused some delays for school bus service
along the Redditt Road.
Excel Coachlines says its number 13, 14 and 16 buses are running about
30 minutes behind schedule.
Broncos win Battle of Kenora
Beaver Brae's girls hockey team won the battle of Kenora.
The Broncos met the Saints last night at the Kenora Rec. Center and
skated away with a 4-2 victory.
Ainsley Lindquist, Jess Ricklefs, and Sam Smith each scored for Beaver Brae,
while Jody Melillo added an empty netter.
The Broncos are back in action this weekend at home with a pair of games against
the Lake of the Woods Bears from Beaudette, Minnesota.
The Broncos met the Saints last night at the Kenora Rec. Center and
skated away with a 4-2 victory.
Ainsley Lindquist, Jess Ricklefs, and Sam Smith each scored for Beaver Brae,
while Jody Melillo added an empty netter.
The Broncos are back in action this weekend at home with a pair of games against
the Lake of the Woods Bears from Beaudette, Minnesota.
No Increase in Health Unit Levies
The levy charged to municipalities to help fund the Northwestern Health Unit will remain the same as last year.
Chief Administrative Officer of the Health Unit, Mark Perreault says the per capita rate, combined with declines in population, will mean area town and cities will pay less this year than they did in 2010.
Perreault says staff reductions through attrition has allowed the Health Unit to work with less money from municipalities.
Chief Administrative Officer of the Health Unit, Mark Perreault says the per capita rate, combined with declines in population, will mean area town and cities will pay less this year than they did in 2010.
Perreault says staff reductions through attrition has allowed the Health Unit to work with less money from municipalities.
Community Plan in the Works for the Abitibi lands
The Lake of the Woods Economic Development Commission wants to establish
a community improvement plan for the Abitibi lands in Kenora.
Fo-Tenn Consulting met with City council yesterday to outline the process.
Economic Development Officer for the City, Jennifer Findlay says over the next few months, they will
be seeking public input on the Community Improvement Plan.
Findlay says they will be holding a couple of public meetings in coming months to outline some of the incentives that could be offered to businesses willing to re-locate.
a community improvement plan for the Abitibi lands in Kenora.
Fo-Tenn Consulting met with City council yesterday to outline the process.
Economic Development Officer for the City, Jennifer Findlay says over the next few months, they will
be seeking public input on the Community Improvement Plan.
Findlay says they will be holding a couple of public meetings in coming months to outline some of the incentives that could be offered to businesses willing to re-locate.
Atikokan Company first to get new Wood Allocation
Atikokan Renewable Fuels is hoping to begin production of its wood pellet plant later this year after being granted the rights to access 179-thousand cubic metres per year of poplar and birch fibre.The Atikokan plant also received one-point-two million from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund.
Spokesperson Ed Fukushima says that money offsets costs incurred while they waited for wood.
Fukushima says the wood allocation allows them to begin talks with potential customers.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Break-ins reported in Rabblit Lake area
The OPP are investigating another rash of vehicle break-in's in the
Rabbit Lake area.
On Friday, a number of unlocked vehicles located along Rabbit Lake
Road were entered.
A quantity of change, an i-pod and other personal items were stolen.
Anyone with information about these break-ins are asked to contact
the Kenora Detachment of the OPP or Crimestoppers.
Rabbit Lake area.
On Friday, a number of unlocked vehicles located along Rabbit Lake
Road were entered.
A quantity of change, an i-pod and other personal items were stolen.
Anyone with information about these break-ins are asked to contact
the Kenora Detachment of the OPP or Crimestoppers.
Aboriginal Groups Applaud Rickford's Appointment
Aboriginal groups in the region are giving their thumbs up for the appointment of Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford as the new parliamentary assistant for Aboriginal Affairs.
Stan Beardy is the grand Chief of the Nishinabe-Aski Nation and says Rickford's appointment as is a welcome move.
Beardy says the Kenora MP is very familiar with NAN issues
Grand Council Treaty #3 has also given its blessing to Rickford's appointment and hopes
the Harper government lives up to its commitments to first nation education and creating
healthy and sustainable communities.
Stan Beardy is the grand Chief of the Nishinabe-Aski Nation and says Rickford's appointment as is a welcome move.
Beardy says the Kenora MP is very familiar with NAN issues
Grand Council Treaty #3 has also given its blessing to Rickford's appointment and hopes
the Harper government lives up to its commitments to first nation education and creating
healthy and sustainable communities.
Impaired Driving charge results in impounded vehicle
A local woman has learned the hard way about Ontario's new, tougher drinking and
driving laws.
The OPP say over the weekend a 23 year old male and a 19 year old female had their
licences suspended after registering a warning on a roadside breath test.
The 19 year old driver also had her vehicle impounded for seven days.
Under new legislation, there is a zero tolerance level for alcohol for
drivers 21 and under.
The new laws went into effect back in December.
driving laws.
The OPP say over the weekend a 23 year old male and a 19 year old female had their
licences suspended after registering a warning on a roadside breath test.
The 19 year old driver also had her vehicle impounded for seven days.
Under new legislation, there is a zero tolerance level for alcohol for
drivers 21 and under.
The new laws went into effect back in December.
Hampton bullish on the Mining Industry
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton feels this region will benefit from a gold mine long before the so-called Ring of Fire can be adequately developed.Speaking at the Rainy River District Municipal Association meeting on the weekend, Hampton says the northwestern Ontario has everything needed to make a gold mine proposed by Rainy River Resources possible.
Hampton feels it will be at least a decade before any mine in the Ring of Fire is developed because it lacks the necessary infrastructure.
January snowier than norml
The Month of January seemed like a cold and snowy one.
And it was, but there were no record broken.
Severe Weather Specialist for Environment Canada, Geoff Coulson
says the Kenora area had over 50 centimeters of snow last month, which is almost
double the amount we usually get.
Temperature-wise, Kenora was almost normal for the month of
January.
The average daily mean temperature last month was -17.6 celcius,
while the norm is -17.3.
And it was, but there were no record broken.
Severe Weather Specialist for Environment Canada, Geoff Coulson
says the Kenora area had over 50 centimeters of snow last month, which is almost
double the amount we usually get.
Temperature-wise, Kenora was almost normal for the month of
January.
The average daily mean temperature last month was -17.6 celcius,
while the norm is -17.3.
JM Judo Club four for four at Selkirk
It was a golden weekend for the Jaffray Melick Judo Club.
Four members braved the snowy roads and travelled to Selkirk for their annual Open Judo Tournament.
All four fighters came back with gold medals.
Thomas Hertz won the Under 13 boys division with a perfect 3-0 record,
Taylor Tom had a two and 0 record, good enough to win her division, while Luke Heatherington was compiled a 2-0 record to take the Under 20 men's competition.
Daniel Gordon was 3-1 on the day, which also earned him a gold medal in the boys
under 15 division.
Four members braved the snowy roads and travelled to Selkirk for their annual Open Judo Tournament.
All four fighters came back with gold medals.
Thomas Hertz won the Under 13 boys division with a perfect 3-0 record,
Taylor Tom had a two and 0 record, good enough to win her division, while Luke Heatherington was compiled a 2-0 record to take the Under 20 men's competition.
Daniel Gordon was 3-1 on the day, which also earned him a gold medal in the boys
under 15 division.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Police investigate Snowmachine accident
The OPP are continuing to investigate a collision between a snowmachine and a motor vehicle over the weekend.Police say that sometime yesterday, a 15 year old female sledder left the trail and started driving onto Airport Road.
Police say anyone 12 to 15 has to hold a valid snow vehicle operators
licence, but is not permitted to travel on or across any roadway.
Broncos win Silver in Manitoba Girls tournament
A couple of medals for Kenora girls high school hockey teams. In Pilot Mound, Manitoba, the Beaver Brae girls won the silver medal, after dropping a 4-1 decision to the host Pembina Tigers in the tournament final.
Thomas Aquinas Girls hockey team took the bronze medal in that same tournament.
Plans in the works to import more elk to NWO
The Lake of the Woods Elk Restoration Committee is hoping to be able to increase the size of the herd in northwestern Ontario in the next year or so.Kenora.
Murray English is the co-chair of the committee and says because they are no longer allowed to import wild elk from out west, they are looking to southern Ontario now to increase their numbers.
English says it would be 2012 at the earliest to have any elk transported from southwestern Ontario.
Kenora's Relay for Life Team honored
Kenora's Relay for Life team has been singled out for its fundraising efforts.Two members of the local Relay for Life Committee were in Toronto recently to accept an award for Fundraising Development.
Kenora's Relay for Life in 2010 raised more than 77 thousand dollars, which was more than double the previous year.
Co-chair Amanda Van Wallenghem says last year more teams, more people and more money was raised and they want to make this year's event bigger and better.
Rickford shuffles parliamentary secretary duties
Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford will have new duties when parliamentresumes sitting today.
to parliamentary secretary for Indian and Northern Affairs.
Rickford replaces Winnipeg M.P. Shelley Glover, who has been shuffled
over as the new parliamentary secretary for Finance.
Rickford just took on his new duties as parliamentary secretary this past
summer.
Parliament Resumes today
Members of Parliament are heading back to Parliament Hill today after a month off.Thunder Bay Rainy River MP John Rafferty says he's anxious over the fate of his pension bill.
He'll be making a last minute plea to his federal counterparts tomorrow.
Rafferty says it's going to be a busy week.
Broncos take silver at Junior KIT
Beaver Brae's junior Boys basketball team had a strong showing at their own Kenora Invitational Tournament.Saturday evening.
Meanwhile, the Kenora Triple "a" midget Thistles split their road games on the weekend.Saturday, the Thistles were blanked 3-0 by the Southwest Cougars.
Yesterday, the Kenora Midgets eked out a 3-2 win over Pembina
Valley Hawks.
In the Casey's men's hockey tournament over the weekend, CHCP took top honors.
The Jeff Richards-led team tripped up Liesure Time 6-1 in the A-side final Sunday afternoon
at the Keewatin arena.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Fort Frances OPP arrest two people for trafficking
The OPP have arrested two people on trafficking charges after pulling over
a vehicle in Emo.
Members of the Community Drug Action team stopped the vehicle yesterday
on Highway 11.
Officers seized over five pounds of marijuana.
The drugs have a street value of about five thousand dollars.
44 year old Carl Meeches and 33 year old Rhonda Johnson, both of Fort Frances
have been charged with possession of a narcotic for the purpose of trafficking.
The duo are scheduled to appear in Fort Frances court next month.
a vehicle in Emo.
Members of the Community Drug Action team stopped the vehicle yesterday
on Highway 11.
Officers seized over five pounds of marijuana.
The drugs have a street value of about five thousand dollars.
44 year old Carl Meeches and 33 year old Rhonda Johnson, both of Fort Frances
have been charged with possession of a narcotic for the purpose of trafficking.
The duo are scheduled to appear in Fort Frances court next month.
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