Prescription Drug Abuse Rate on the Rise

Parents need to talk to their kids.

More teenagers then ever are using prescription drugs to get high and only 14 per cent are talking to their parents about the risks involved.

Patti Dryden-Holmstrom from the youth addiction program says more parents need to initiate talks with their children.

Although it's believed that Prescription drug abuse is safer, they can be just as deadly as illegal drugs.

For more information visit any of these area addiction and prevention services.

http://www.lwdh.on.ca/index.php/Programs-and-Services/addictions-services-kenora.html

http://substanceabuse.kenora.ca/

http://www.drugandalcoholhelpline.ca/Directory/Organization/1612

Mayor Canfield Selected as NOMA President

Mayor Dave Canfield has been elected the president of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association.

Canfield says he hopes to do a lot of work with the government and that there is no time to be politically correct with the mining and forestry sectors expanding.

Canfield was selected as president last week at the NOMA Annual General Meeting in Dryden.

Mixed Local Reactions to Budget

The Provincial budget is getting some mixed reactions.

Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell says it is a bit concerning.

Campbell says the Liberal's are fine with spending five times the amount the NDP suggested for home care, but there is still no commitment to service.

She adds there was also no mention of the Ring of Fire and mining opportunities in Northwestern Ontario.


Meanwhile, Nishnawbe Aski Grand Chief Harvey Yesno is giving the provincial budget a thumbs down.

Chief Yesno says he's disappointed there is nothing new about building transmission lines for the Ring of Fire project or all weather roads.

Chief Yesno says he will take a closer look at the budget and form his opinion on the Liberals from there.


And, despite the negative comments about the Ontario Budget, the Minister of Northern Development and Mines says the North will benefit.

Michael Gravelle says keeping industrial electricity rates down in the north remains a priority

Gravelle further emphasized the government's commitment to the 100 million dollar fund for roads and bridges.

Hertiage Fund Makes Money Available for the Region

The province is out with new funding opportunities for northwestern Ontario.

Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Executive Director Bruce Strapp is hoping to hand out 30-million dollars this year for various projects.

The Heritage Fund had a budget of 291-million dollars last year and Strapp says 681 jobs were created or retained.

For more information on Heritage Fund programs go to www.nohfc.ca.

New Cell Tower to go up in Keewatin

Calling it a cell tower may be a little misleading.

A new T-Bay Tel tower going on top of the water tower in Keewatin will just be a minor extension.

Mayor Dave Canfield says unless you look at a before and after picture you won't notice a difference.

He added that the tower will just be some new metal infrastructure that looks like railing.

PC Leader Annoucned Plans for the North

Progressive Conservatives are out promoting their plan for northern Ontario.

Leader Tim Hudak says it includes bringing back more decisions about the north by northerners

Hudak says Conservatives would work to permitting at least 10 new mines and introduce initiatives that strengthen the mining and forestry sectors.

Treaty 3 Police Vote for Provincial Jurisdicition

The Treaty Three Police is challenging the Federal Jurisdiction in a fight for better rights.

All employees with the service will take part in a union vote today on whether the officers should be represented under provincial jurisdiction.

Public Service Alliance of Canada Spokesperson Sandra Goodick says it's only a matter of time.

Goodick says if passed, she doesn't think the workers will see a significant difference.

Voting will be held at the Couchicing Detachment between 3-4 and 6-8 and the General Headquarters in Kenora between 3-4  and 6-8.

Tree Canada Mulches Tree in City

A new tree outside the Discovery Centre will have to wait to be planted.

This year Tree Canada held their annual general meeting in Kenora at the Discovery Centre and president Mike Rosen said the cold weather changed their plans of planting a new tree in every city the meet in.

Rosen adds that once the ground allows it TD bank will plant a tree for them.

Endless Opportunities for Youth in the Region

The options are endless in Northwestern Ontario.

Andy Scribilo is the past president of the Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce, and says the jobs are out there, but it's a matter of finding people to fill them.

Scribilo says schools need to let students know what is out there and let them try it.

Spay and Neuter Program at White Dog

White dog is starting a new spay and neuter program to help control the dog population in the community.

Project Manager Waylon Scott says it's a 5 year program and is more humane than the dog shoots they had used previously.

Scott says there are more dogs than houses in the community.

A team to help with the initial spaying and neutering will arrive on May 2nd. and will start the program on the 3rd.

Rail Safety Week

Some tips for anyone caught hanging around the tracks.

CN Police Constable Cynthia Stotz says it's Rail Safety Week and is reminding people that walking along the tracks is illegal.

Stotz says people should contact the railway if they see continually crossing the tracks.

An identifier at each cross-way that will tell you the name and number of the railway.

Stotz adds that ATV's and snowmobiles can damage the tracks and are at risk of being hit because it can be difficult to hear an oncoming train over the sound of the engine.

Victory For Shoal Lake in Water Dispute

It's a big victory for the Shoal Lake First Nations.

The International Joint Commission has ruled against the City of Winnipeg's plan to sell water to surrounding communities.

The first nations argued that the city would break the agreement in place by making a profit off the water.

In a letter, the IJC supported the argument and informed Winnipeg that it could not sell the water.

The decision put a dent into the city's CentrePort project.

MPP Speaks Up for Remote First Nations

The MPP for Kenora-Rainy River is calling on the premier to address the social conditions in First Nation communities.

Speaking at Queens Park, Sarah Campbell says it's unfair that these communities have to declare a state of emergency to get some attention from the government.

A remote Northern First Nation declared a state of emergency last week due to recent suicides and the issue of prescription drug abuse.

Update for LOWBIC Annual General Meeting

The chair of the board at the Lake of the Woods Business Incentive Corporation is stepping down.

last week at the annual general meeting Executive Director Ryan Reynard says Anita Webb did a lot of great work and will be missed.

Reynard says last year LOWBIC did a great job helping to diversify the economy by creating 31 full time jobs and handing out 15 loans to small businesses.

He also announced a surplus of over 7 million dollars.

Health Fair in Machin

Promoting health services available to residents in Machin.

That's the focus of a Health Fair being put on by the Northwestern Health Unit on May 1st at Lillian Berg School in Vermilion Bay.

Public Health Nurse Sue Wood says it runs from 2 till 6pm, with two evening sessions to follow.

The sessions including speakers from the Dryden OPP, Dryden Regional Health Center,
and Firefly.

MPP States Demands for Upcoming Budget

Home health care and auto insurance premiums are Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell's main concerns.

And she hopes that the provincial government will address them when they reveal the budget on May 2nd.

Campbell says she's heard from local residents who can't afford their car insurance because it's too high.

Campbell adds that she would also like to see the government close some of the corporate tax loopholes.

New Infrastructure Funds for Smaller Communtiies

The Provincial Government is investing in small communities across Northwestern Ontario.

Provincial Infrastructure Minister Glen Murray says they are going to benefit from a new 100-million dollar infrastructure fund that will go to bridge and road repairs.

Murray says the new fund would be available by October 1st.

New NOACC President Selected

Times are changing for the Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce.

Michael Nitz, who comes from Thunder Bay was announced as the new president at the spring Annual General Meeting this past weekend in Dryden.

Nitz says a big focus for him is getting more people involved.

Nitz says another priority for him is connecting all Chambers in the Northwest and making sure they are coming to the table and providing input.

Health Unit Offers Needle Safety Tips

Now that the warmer temperatures are finally here, more people are hitting the outdoors.

However, the Northwestern Health Unit wants to remind the public to be careful if you see needles laying around.

Manager of Infectious Diseases Donna Stanley says it's important to use gloves and tongs to pick one up and the place it in a hard-sided plastic container..

Stanley says don't forget to wash your hands after, and needles can be dropped off at the health unit.

Mining Report Released at NOMA AGM

A report on the future of mining in the area has been unveiled.

The strategy was presented at the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association Conference yesterday in Thunder Bay.

The analysis indicates that there will be considerable opportunities for suppliers to support the potential mining projects in the north.

The mining sector is expected to create 10,000 full-time jobs over the next decade and bring in up to 1.7-billion dollars in overall economic revenue each year over the same period.

On the downside, the study warns that upgrades to the province's electricity transmission system may not be completed in time to foster completion of planned mining projects.

NOACC AGM in Dryden This Weekend

Businesses and organizations from all over the region will be in Dryden this weekend.

The Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce is holding its spring Annual General Meeting starting tonight at the Best Western.

President Andy Scribilo says there's lots happening over the two-day conference.

Scribilo says the public is invited to attend.

visit www.noacc.ca for information.

Local Reactions to Proposed Border Fee

Speaking out against the proposed border fee to enter the United States

Kenora Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell says both countries will benefit if the fee does not pass.

Campbell adds that a more open border concept will help keep tourists from the United States coming into the region and in turn impact the economy.

At the same time, the MP for Kenora says he is working to advance our borders with the United States.

Greg Rickford says we have advanced border crossings and the purposed border fee to enter the United States goes against what Canada is trying to do.

The purposed fee is going into a feasibility study to see if it would work and help the US pay for security costs.

Neither Campbell or Rickford expect the proposal to pass.

Mayors Unhappy With MPAC Presentation

A presentation from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation has done nothing to appease area Mayors.

Several Northwestern Ontario communities including Dryden are withholding payments to MPAC over their assessments of mill property.

Dryden Mayor Craig Nuttall calls the MPAC presentation at yesterday's NOMA conference bureaucratic rhetoric.

MPAC President Antoni Wisniowski says they hear the communities concerns and that's why they came to the conference in the first place.

Storm Watcher Session in Dryden

A safer way to watch the weather.

Environment Canada Meteorologist Geoff Coulson is offering a program called CANWARN, which is essentially how to become a "Storm Watcher" in Northwestern Ontario.

A session is being held in Dryden on June 7th, starting at 7:00.

For more information email geoff.coulson@ec.gc.ca.

Priorities Remain the Same for New Director of Education

There may be a new director but the goal remains the same.

Last week Sean Monteith was selected as the director of Education at the Keewatin Patricia District School Board, and he says they will continue down the same educational path.

Monteith says some key priorities are the unique learning needs in the region, infrastructure needs, and advocating to the powers that be in Southern Ontario.

Local Reactions to ELA Announcement

 A level of cautious optimism for the Experimental Lakes Area.

Kenora Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell says she was excited to hear the government commit to keep the facility open.

However Campbell said they did not clarify how they'll support the ELA.

Campbell adds it's about time the government recognized how important the facility is and how it benefits the province.

At the same time Kenora MP Greg Rickford says the announcement was quite a pleasant surprise.


Rickford says it's great news that the Provincial Government has stepped up to the plate to save the Experimental Lakes Area, East of Kenora.

However, Rickford notes it's not official yet bu is confident an agreement will be reached in the near future.

27th Annual Home & Leisure Show Right Around the Corner

The 27th annual Home and Leisure show signifies that spring is just around the corner in Kenora.

The Leisure show goes from May 3rd to the 5th at the Rec center.

This year it'll be a full house of vendors with hundreds of ideas for your home or cottage.

Chairman of the Leisure Show Andy Scribilo says that they are always looking for volunteers.

Scribilo adds that none of this would be possible without the help of their volunteers.

It's a Dog's Life Social

It's a dogs life will be having a social on May 4th at the Lakeshore Hotel.

It's a Dogs Life volunteer Chris Madison says that they wont be doing a silent auction but will have lots of prizes.

The proceeds will be go towards spay and neutering dogs in their care and within the community.

Tickets are available at, Johnsons Pharmacy, Taylor Made Pet Products, Pet Value, and Ho Joe's Coffee.

ELA Gets Big Boost by Province

The Experimental Lakes Area has gotten a big boost from the province.

Ontario is working hand in hand with the federal government, Manitoba government, and other partners to sustain long term operations at the facility East of Kenora.

Premiere Kathleen Wynne says they have had numerous meeting with the scientific and academic communities and that investing in science and research is a wise choice for the people of Ontario.

The province will provide the operating support needed as an agreement is worked on with International Institute for Sustainable Development.

NOMA Gathers in Thunder Bay

Municipal leaders from across the region are in Thunder Bay for the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association Annual General meeting.

The highlight of the 3 day conference, which starts today, is a forum with 8 Ontario Ministers.

Conservative Leader Tim Hudak and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath will also address delegates.

There will also be an appointment of a new President.

Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield is widely expected to replace Ron Nelson who has indicated he won't seek another term.

Kenora Man Fined by MNR

A reminder to be careful where you shoot.

A Kenora man has been fiend two-thousand-dollars for shooting a deer from a roadway.

Conservation officers with the Ministry of Natural Resources came across Steven Burke with an antler-less deer in the back of his truck, and saw him again returning to the site where the deer was apparently killed.

Officers spoke to Burke, and learned that he had shot the deer on the side of the road and was returning to the site to cover his tracks.

The MNR would like to remind the public that it's illegal to discharge a firearm from, down or across a roadway.

Sunset Area Victims Services Holds Open House

Sunset Area Victims Services is reaching out to the community in a bid to raise its profile.

An open house is being held from 11 until 2 today and tomorrow at 136 Main Street South.

Executive Director Monika Huminuk says they provide immediate emotional and practical support and referral services to victims of crime or other tragic circumstances.

"Vickers" partners with police and emergency services in the Kenora and Dryden areas as well as northern First Nations.

Next Step in Re-banding City

Changing the perception of available docking spaces in the city.

The Brand Leadership Team is asking for public input as they venture into the next phase of re-branding the city as the premiere boating destination.

Chair of the Team Randy Nickle says they were at the boat show in Winnipeg and docking spaces was the main question they faced.

The Leadership team is also looking at available docks, waiting lists, day spots, and parking.

An public survey has been posted online at www.kenoradocking.ca.

Big Drug Bust by Kenora OPP

A 26 year old from Pickering is facing numerous possession charges in Kenora.

Kenora OPP say they stopped a vehicle driven by Bulchan Sukhedo yesterday for speeding.

During the stop police found 7 kilograms of cocaine, cell phones, and money inside the vehicle.

Opp say the street value is $750,000.

Sukhedo has been charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking and possession of property obtained by crime.

Health Unit Talks About Immunization Week

It's time to roll up your sleeves as a part of Immunization Awareness Week.

Judy Hovi is a nurse with the Northwestern Health Unit, and says it's important that children receive all of their vaccinations.

Hovi recommends that adults need to keep to up to date with tetanus and diphtheria shots every 10-years.

Northern Leaders to Meet with Finance Minister

Several municipal leaders will bend the ear of the province next week regarding the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation.

They're concerned with how MPAC has greatly reduced the assessment of pulp and paper mills.

Fort Frances Councillor Ken Perry says it's an issue that growing.

Meanwahile Fort Frances Mayor Roy Avis is joining with other mayors for a meeting in Toronto on Monday with the province's Deputy Finance Minister

Resolute Temporarily Stops Production in Thunder Bay

There's time off coming for some workers at Resolute Forest Products in Thunder Bay.  

Marvin Pupeza of the Paperworkers Union says the newsprint operations are down for two weeks because he says there is too much paper on the market and hopes it's not part of a bigger plan

About 100 workers are affected by the shutdown.

Earth Day Walk-A-Bout In Kenora

A group of Kenora residents are showing their support for Earth Day and climate change this year.

Ashley Bennett organized a walk-about that took place yesterday in an effort to raise awareness
 on environmental issues.

Bennett talked about how climate change can affect people around the world.

Bennett says that we must come together as a community to sustain a healthy future for the planet.

Hockey for Health Exceeds Fundraising Goal

The 5th Annual Hockey for Health Tournament is a roaring success.

Organizer Dean Caron says he has been blown away by the support, as they surpassed their fundraising goal by 11 thousand dollars.

Caron says everything was simply amazing.

Caron congratulated the community after the final game.

A total of over $66,000 was raised.

The money is all in support of the District Hospital Foundation, twinning the ice at the Rec Centre, and the Canadian Cancer Society.

Treaty 3 Happy with Health Funding

Aboriginal Health Access Centres in Kenora are having a positive affect on the aboriginal community.

Treaty 3 Grand Chief Warren White says the centres are very welcoming to aboriginal people who practice traditional medicine.

White added that  the centres benefit elders who prefer to stay in their communities to receive health care.

Last Week Aboriginal Affairs Minister David Zimmer Announced over $2.3 million in funding to the Aboriginal Health Access Centres in Kenora and Fort Frances.

Sunset Travels Responds to Northern Tourism Remarks

The Executive Director of Ontario's Sunset Country Travel Association is reacting to tourism discussions in Queens Park.

Last week Tourism Minister Michael Chan responded to questions in Queens Park saying we need to modernize our tourism information.

However, Gerry Cariou says Sunset Travel is all over the internet.

Cariou adds that websites can only do so much and don't offer the services that can be provided at travel centres.

Senior Thistles Lose Semi-Final

Close but no cigar for the Kenora Triple "A" Senior Thistles.

On Friday the Thistles faced off with the Bentley Generals in the Allan Cup Semi Finals.

Bentley started the scoring and took a 2-0 lead midway through the 2nd before Kenora answered with a goal of their own.

After another goal by the general the Thistles continued to fight and potted a goal in the last 30 seconds.

Unfortunately, they were unable to find the equalizing 3rd goal and lost 3-2.

the Generals went on to win the championship on Saturday over the Clarenville Caribous.

Senior Thistles Advance at Allan Cup

It's just what the doctors ordered for the Kenora Triple "A" Senior Thistles.

Kenora came out flying in their quarter final against Fort St John and pummeled them 8-2.

Alternate Captain Jeff Richards had a hat trick in the victory.

The Thistles will now have a rematch with the host Bentley Generals in the semi finals tonight.

Bentley beat Kenora 5-2 in the round robin on Tuesday

The puck is scheduled to drop at 9:00.

Aboriginal Affairs Looking at Education Funding

Ontario's new Aboriginal Affairs minister hopes to balance education budgets.

David Zimmer, was in Kenora this week, and said the funding for off-reserve schools is much higher than it is in schools on-reserves.

Zimmer adds that they are focusing on closing that gap and offering better education to students living on reserves.

Other priorities for the minister are health concerns and land claim disputes.

OSSTF Votes in Favor of New Contract

Public high school teachers and support staff have endorsed the recently-negotiated contract changes with the provincial government.

The government says there won't be any additional costs to the deal.

However, Tory education critic Lisa MacLeod disagrees.

The Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation says members voted 84 per cent in favor of the revision to the contract imposed in January under Bill 115.

Emergency Management Ontario Looking at Host Communities

The Chief of Emergency Management Ontario is asking local communities to be "host ready".

Allison Stuart stressed that area leaders must be prepared in the event of evacuations this summer.

Stuart says the province looks at services such as spiritual services, recreation, and accommodations when looking at a community to host evacuees.

In 2011, some 44-hundred people from several northern First Nations were forced to live elsewhere because of raging forest fires near their homes.