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Wednesday, September 30, 2009 $1.19 plus 6 GST, $1.25 U.S.

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Volume 115 Number 22 PAP No. 07429

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ISSN 0834-6283

Forest industry needs support to survive: Harrison

By Duane Hicks Staff writer While theres no doubt the forest industry is suffering, its possible the emerging bioeconomy could be an integral part of Northwestern Ontarios economy in the future albeit only if the primary industry can get the support it needs to survive. Thats the message local AbitibiBowater mill manager John Harrison offered Friday to delegates attending the Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce fall meeting here. As residents of Northwestern Ontario, all of us have grown up with the forest products industry being a major presence in our life, Harrison noted. If it wasnt our direct employer or the employer of our parents, chances are that someone in our extended family worked in the mill or in the bush. . . . But in the course of just one generation, that pictures been drastically altered, he said. Across Northwestern Ontario, from Marathon to Kenora, pulp mills, kraft mills, paper mills, and sawmills either have closed entirely or have idled lines. Just 30 years ago, there were more than 20 paper machines in operation and five pulp mills in the region. Today, that number has been reduced to three paper machines and three pulp millswith the lumber side of the business looking even bleaker. Harrison said the decline can be attributed to a decreasing market demand and loss of competitive position in the last 10-15 years. The four key components that make up the roughly 80 percent of the cost of delivering products to customers are fibre, fuel, folks, and freight. Harrison explained that advances made over the years in pulping technologies have taken away the regions position as the finest fibre basket in the world. The quality of the slow-growing fine fibre in the north has been overcome by the application of new technologies to fast-growing species in the southern U.S. and South America, opening up a new region of pulp and paper-making where costs are roughly half of what they are in Northwestern Ontario. The south has warmer climates and shorter regeneration cycles, lower transportation costs to get the wood to the mills, and can do year-round operations. Fuel, including electricity and thermal energy (steam), is another factor. The latter is made by burning natural gas or biomass. The increased price of natural gas from $3/gigajoule to Please see Forestry, A11

Couchiching families still await action on contamination

By Peggy Revell Staff writer Couchiching First Nation residents still are waiting for action and answers from federal agencies months after engineering tests revealed high levels of contamination at the former site of the J.A. Mathieu sawmill. Absolutely nothing has changed for residents, said Lisa McPherson, whose family home is within the identified site that stretches along Harrys Road off Highway 11. Instead, she noted testing continuesthis time for six newly-identified chemicals that are present on top of the high levels of PCDDs and PCDFs identified in soil, groundwater, and dust samples taken by DST Consulting Engineering. But at this point, the main objective should be to get people out of there, not just continue with testing, stressed Amanda Jourdain, whose family was relocated earlier this year as a precautionary measure and now are renting a house in Fort Frances. They have declared in all the reports, in the air sampling, in the dust samplings, groundwater and soil, theyve all come back [at whats] called unacceptable human health risk, she noted. Our main point is that they need to get the people out of there, and how bad does it have to get? Move the people first and then they can test for 10 years and spend a godawful amount of money if they want to, Jourdain added. But the people and the kids shouldnt have to stay there and be affected by it. It would make just senseget [everyone] out, quarantine the area off, dont let anybody back, agreed McPherson. Then they could take their time cleaning it upnot that they shouldbut at least were not sitting here during this. This is inevitable, so why drag it out? Its ridiculous, absolutely ridiculous, she fumed, pointing out many of the families already could have been bought out with the money INAC has put into testing alonea number theyve been told is $1.2 million. Like the Jourdains, the McPhersons relocated in March but eventually returned back to their home due to mental and financial stress. While they were the only two families relocated, the range of contamination stretches to include dozens of family homes in the area. While it originally was assumed the contaminants arose from the former dipping pond of the J.A. Mathieu sawmill site, further historical research by DST has found that the site and surrounding areas have been used for other activities, such as wood treatment using zinc chloride as early as 1911, as well Please see Couchiching, A11

Garden of serenity
Over $2 million in renovations have been done at Rainycrest Long-Term Care in the past year, including the rebuilding of several courtyards for residents. This courtyard, located just off the special needs unit at Rainycrest, is a beautiful example of what the newly-renovated courtyards at the long-term care facility could look like once theyre ready. The flowers and furnishings were donated by families and friends of residents. See story, photos A3. Duane Hicks photo

Town relaxing fence bylaw

By Duane Hicks Staff writer The Town of Fort Frances is preparing a new fence bylaw for councils consideration, which will relax the rules regarding corner sight triangles as well as fences and hedges on corner lots. Planning and Development superintendent Rick Hallam said yesterday that during a recent review of Bylaw 13/01, one of the biggest concernsand source of controversywas the issue of safety at intersections where sight is impeded by an over-height fence, hedge, or other visual obstruction. As directed, Planning and Development staff researched municipalities across Ontario in regards to corner sight triangles, and found that the concept has been included in many municipal zoning or fence bylaws across Ontario. Please see Town, A10

Talks aim to resolve cash crunch at FACS

By Peggy Revell Staff writer Negotiations are underway with the province as Family and Children Services of the Rainy River District is facing a budget shortfall that could see it run low of cash before years end. Family and Children Services of the District of Rainy River is currently in dialogue with the Ministry of Children and Youth Services regarding funding issues, Bob McGreevy, president of the board of directors of FACS, said last week. Declining provincial revenues has led to funding reductions to child welfare agencies across the province, he noted. FACS is working closely with the ministry to address the funding shortfall and to ensure that child welfare services continue without interruption, he stressed. While he declined to give an exact amount of how short FACS may be, McGreevy said it was a significant amount. Were hoping to have worked out something before the end of November. So thats our hope, and that depends on many things, he said, noting the ministry is the only source of funding for FACS. The shortfall comes as a result of several factors, McGreevy said, most all of which the board sees as Please see Talks, A10

Cleaning shoreline
J.W. Walker students helped fill up a bag with garbage during the TD Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup held here last week. The top five things picked up this year were 988 cigarette butts, 453 food wrappers, 233 plastic bags, 184 paper bags, and 98 caps and lids. Some of the more interesting finds included a wallet, a $5 bill, giant bolts, carpet, and duct tape. Heather Latter photo

Inside
Honduran group shares, learns here
Its been a learning experience that bridges thousands of miles as a district First Nation hosted an exchange group from Honduras over the past week. Nigigoonsiminikaaning First Nation was proud to welcome the six guests who hail from the Pech tribe, which is made up of eight remote communities in Honduras, Chief Gary Allen noted.

Lifestyles
Lift means better mobility for teen
Call it an up-lifting story. After fundraising efforts by Safeway here, local teen William Moody Jr. now has a brand new portable lift to help with his mobility. Moody, who was born with spina bifida and requires a wheelchair to get around, was selected by Safeway staff to be focus of its 2007-08 We Care campaign.

Sports
Muskie hoopsters stay undefeated
Both the Muskie senior and junior girls basketball teams improved to 2-0 on the NorWOSSA season with victories over the Kenora Broncos here Monday. The seniors stretched their lead to 23-13 by the midway point of the fourth quarter, but a late push by the Broncos had them within a three-pointer when the final buzzer sounded, with the Muskies surviving a scare 23-20.

See story on A2

See story on A6

See story on B1

A10 FORT FRANCES TIMES

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Talks aim to resolve cash crunch at FACS

More from A1 being beyond its control. One of these factors is limitations the ministry has placed on the amount of money agencies can spend on infrastructure, which are a part of administrative costs. Because were a very small board, our administrative costs as a percentage of our budget are higher than they are in larger agencies within the province, McGreevy explained. Thats because we need a building, whether were large or small, we need telephones, he remarked. All of theses things that make up infrastructure have a certain cost, and large agencies have economy of scale that allow them to reduce their infrastructure cost. Because of our size, thats much more difficult for us to do. While FACS traditionally has managed to provide service to the children relatively cheaply, McGreevy also noted that for the first time this year, they have a couple of kids in care who require very expensive, intensive care in an institution that has had to come out of the existing budget. Ordinarily in other years, the board would be eligible for mitigation funding from the province, which is received at the end of the budget year. But with the current shortfall, FACS may not even make it until the end of the year. Negotiations with the province include working on an agreement so FACS is able to cover the cost of these high-needs children, McGreevy said, noting these expenses also are only temporary since eventually these children will be able to move once they can function in other environments. But having said that, theres no guarantees that we wouldnt have other children who have high needs who would have to be placed in facilities, too, he added. Several solutions also are possible, McGreevy said, such as an adjustment to the funding formula to enable smaller agencies to function better. He also pointed out they arent the only child welfare organization facing these type of issues. In the meantime, FACS also is making cuts to reduce costs. Over the short-term, were looking at elimination of training, over the short-term reduction in travel, reduction in meetings, McGreevy explained. While they have not made any decisions yet, the board also is considering some staffing allocations. FACS also has, to this point, been providing services to other organizations free of charge, added McGreevy, so it has imposed some fees and is looking at other user fees to increase revenue. But thats not going to generate too much money, he stressed. While the province and FACS havent reached an agreement yet, McGreevy said hes optimistic they can arrive at an understanding. I think that its important that the public understand that both the ministry and FACS are deeply committed to providing uninterrupted service to our children and their families, he remarked. And above all else, we are hopeful, and at times even optimistic, that this can be taken care of fairly soon. But I want to assure the public that we will do everything we can, the ministry will do everything it can, to ensure that the service continues as it has, McGreevy pledged.

Obituary
CECELIA ELISABETH KAST
Cecelia Elisabeth Kast, 88, passed away peacefully on Monday, Sept. 21, 2009 at St. Boniface General Hospital in Winnipeg, Man. Cecelia was predeceased by her husband, Herman; as well as her four brothers and three sisters. She leaves to mourn three sons, Harold (Wendy), Albert (Elaine), and Mack (Nancy); two daughters, Bertha (Bill Nelson) and Irene (Pat Duffy); seven grandchildren, Michael, Scott, Kathy (Murray), Kevin, Nicole (Jamie), Heather, and Jennifer (Richard); and four greatgrandchildren. Cecelia was the proud daughter of Paul Sr. and Elisabeth Hiebert, born on June 11, 1921 in Humboldt, Sask. Cecelia witnessed the unfolding of many significant events over time, including her fathers first car, a Model T Ford. After marrying and moving to Northwestern Ontario, Cecelia made a wonderful life in Sioux Narrows. She and Herman built a log home and began raising their family. They started their tourist resort business, Hermans Cabins, in 1945, which later became known as Tomahawk Resort. Around all of this, they raised their children, instilling a sense of independence in them through the importance of education and family. Cecelia loved to cook and bake, with dinner being a time for family. Her lemon pie and roast chicken dinners will be missed. Cecelia also loved to do many crafts, such as pottery, stain-glass, sewing, knitting, and crocheting. She loved to make personalized crafts for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Cecelia was a fun-loving person full of energy, and in her younger years gathered crowds to listen to her play the pump organ. She loved music and dancing, espe-

Town relaxing sight triangle regulations

More from A1 Since there seems to be no universal standard of corner distance or height of visual obstruction, municipalities instead have adopted individual standards of what works best for them, noted Hallam. We felt it was time that we addressed this particular issue, but we wanted to address it in a way that is was more sensitive to, I guess you would say, a more rural setting as opposed to the City of Toronto or Mississauga, he remarked. And I think weve accomplished that. As a result of this review, the Planning and Development executive committee has recommended a whole new fence bylaw be drafted for adoption by council. The requirements for fences, in general, are going to stay the same but there will be a renewed focus on corner sight triangles, said Hallam. We have actually relaxed the requirements dramatically. One change is the linear measurement of a sight triangle to be taken along the intersecting exterior lot lines and be a distance of 4.5 metres from the intersection point measured along both directions. Under the current fence bylaw, that distance is nine metres. As well, under the proposed new bylaw, the maximum height of any fence, hedge, or other visual obstruction located on a corner lot must not be greater than 1.2 metres (four feet) above the established grade. This is double the current height of two feet. But while the restrictions have been relaxed, the new fence bylaw will not permit grandfathering of existing non-compliant situations (i.e., fences or hedges on corner lots) as they relate to corner sight triangles. We are going to ensure in the new bylaw there will be no carryover and no grandfathering for those persons who have existing hedges or fences on corner lots, Hallam noted. They will be compelled to reduce the height, but it wont be as dramatic as in the past, when we had to go out and say, Look, you have got to chop this down to two feet. Now, were going to allow them four feet, he explained. Another big change is that the provision of sight triangle regulations only will apply to uncontrolled intersections (i.e., those without a four-way stop or traffic signal light). Under the current fence bylaw, sight triangle regulations apply to every intersection. Putting safety at the forefront, Hallam said there always may be exceptions to the rules and there will continue to be a provision addressing this in the new fence bylaw. If theres an identified traffic safety issue, and it would be up to the town to decide if theres an actual traffic safety issue, then we can say, notwithstanding the rest of the bylaw, weve identified this particular corner as having an issue and youre going to have to do what we tell you to do, he remarked. Hallam noted the issue of sight triangles only will be addressed or spoken to in the new fence bylaw, adding references to sight triangles will be removed from the zoning bylaw by way of an amendment to coincide with the adoption and passing of the new fence bylaw. This is because the zoning bylaw currently is being updated along with the towns official plan, but this process likely wont be completed until next spring or summer. Rather than wait on the fence bylaw and deal with the issue in the zoning bylaw all at the same time, its more expedient to do an amendment to the existing zoning bylaw and then have that amendment picked up in the new zoning bylaw when it comes forward, Hallam said. Council approved a report from Hallam regarding the new fence bylaw at its regular meeting Monday night. It now is being prepared for council consideration, to be voted on at a future meeting. Proper notice of the meeting will be given to the public in the near future. I am pretty confident the residents of Fort Frances are going to embrace this new bylaw, said Hallam. It certainly goes a long way to relax the requirements and to make it more palatable for all of those people who wish to have a hedge on their corner, he added.

cially the polka. She also enjoyed travelling, going to Cuba, South America, and Europe on many occasions. She spent a number of winters in Arizona with her close friend and companion, Edward Kulson, and they enjoyed each others company for many years. Cecelia has enriched the lives of all who knew her. We are very grateful for the many choices and sacrifices she made over the years, and we are all better people for having known and loved her. Cremation has taken place. A private family graveside service will be held at the Pineridge Cemetery in Sioux Narrows. Family and friends are welcomed to make an in memoriam donation to the Alzheimers Society of Kenora/Rainy River District, P.P. Box 837, Kenora, Ont., P9N 4B5 or the Heart and Stroke Foundation, P.O. Box 3064, Kenora, Ont., P9N 4C8. Online condolences may be offered at www.nbardal.mb.ca

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ISSN 0834-6283

Wednesday, October 7, 2009 $1.19 plus 6 GST, $1.25 U.S.

Printed in Canada email: info@fortfrances.com

Volume 115 Number 23 PAP No. 07429

www.fortfrances.com

ISSN 0834-6283

Town reveals deal to buy Sunny Cove Camp

By Duane Hicks Staff writer Citing a declining membership, the local Kiwanis Club is proposing to sell its Sunny Cove Camp to the Town of Fort Frances for $1, with the intent being for the town to preserve and maintain the camp for the use of district residents. Details of the proposed deal, which will be voted on by council at its regular meeting next Tuesday (Oct. 13), were explained to a group of about 30 local residents, Kiwanis members, town staff, and mayor and council yesterday evening during a public meeting at the Civic Centre. Town CAO Mark McCaig recalled that back in early 2008, the Kiwanis Club approached the town about the future operation of Sunny Cove Camp, advising the town that attempts to recruit new members had not been successful and that the ongoing upkeep of the facilities had become a considerable strain on their aging membership. Since the Kiwanis wanted to see the camp continue to be run, they offered to sell it to the town for the sum of $1as long as the town kept running the camp in the manner that has always been intended: as a beautiful and serene setting for area church organizations, youth groups, and others to enjoy, said McCaig. Then last November, a town committee began examining the feasibility of acquiring Sunny Cove Camp, reviewing all aspects of its operations. The town also continued to consult with the club on financial, operational, and philosophical issues. In the last year, the parties came up with an agreement that would see the town buy the camp and continue to run it. Some of the highlights of the proposed agreement include: the town will acquire Sunny Cove Camp for the sum of $1 once town council passes a resolution agreeing to the acquisition; the name of the camp will stay Kiwanis Sunny Cove Camp; the Kiwanis will keep and maintain all of the pictures, plaques, and historical items on the walls of Russell Hall (if the hall is renovated or replaced, these artifacts will be placed in an appropriate place to continue to recognize the Fort Frances Kiwanis Club); a Kiwanis Sunny Cove Camp Advisory Committee will be struck, which will see the Kiwanis working with the town to provide input and ensure the present usage will be maintained to certain camp users. (The town will provide a maximum of three designated members of the local Kiwanis Club to sit on the new committee. If the local Kiwanis Club ever ceases to exist, the town will solicit applications from the community, with preference given to former Kiwanians); the town will adopt the current booking schedule as priority users based on historical bookings (bookings will need to remain current in accordance with the towns recreational booking policy); the town will provide priority placement based on historical usage and the towns recreational booking policy, such that if a group traditionally has used the camp at a certain time, they will be given the first opportunity for that Please see Town," A11

FACS funding fight taken to Queens Park

By Peggy Revell Staff writer At the same time Ontario legislators donned purple ribbons to mark Child Abuse Prevention Month, the McGuinty government has come under fire for the budget shortfalls facing various Childrens Aid Societies across the province, including Family and Childrens Services here in Rainy River District. During question period at Queens Park last Thursday morning, Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton demanded answers on the funding shortfall at FACSa story first broken by the Times back on Sept. 25. The Family and Childrens Services of the District of Rainy River has had a balanced budget for the last three years, despite receiving a blended funding rate of only $39 per child in care, while the provincial blended funding rate is $79 per child in care, Hampton stated. However, this agency has now been put in a very difficult financial situation because your ministry, mid-year, cut their budget by $400,000, on a full-year budget of only $3 million. This means they will not have the money to provide services for children in need over the last three months. My question is this: Why is the McGuinty government undermining this family and childrens services organizations capacity to protect children in need? Hampton asked. Hampton also brought forth a recent letter sent from the Ontario Association of Childrens Aid Societies to Premier Dalton McGuinty. Currently. . . the governments . . . funding strategy for Childrens Aid Societies . . . threatens to undermine their capacity to protect children and to meet even the minimum standards of the Child and Family Services Act, Hampton read. The negative impact of this funding strategycutting back money mid-yearon all CASs has been enormous. . . . It is estimated that one-fifth of the 53 CASs in Ontario will be insolvent by the end of this fiscal year, the letter continued. Operations at some may not be sustainable within the next few weeks.. . . . The governments recent actions represent a significant and farreaching funding strategy change. . . . Monday mornings question period saw Conservative MPP for Dufferin-Caledon, Sylvia Jones, also demanding answers from Children and Youth Services minister Deborah Matthews, pointing out that 36 of the 51 Childrens Aid Societies across Ontario have filed Section 14 requests asking for a ministerial review of their budget. They know they cannot fulfill their legislated mandate with the budget cuts your ministry is forcing halfway through their fiscal year, Jones stated. Minister, in this National Family Week, how do you explain the fact that there have never, ever before been so many requests for Section 14 reviews? Charging that the ministers words do not match her action, Jones argued the budget cuts will mean reductions in front-line staff, and asked which services the minister recommends being cut. In response to these questions, Matthews stressed theres nothing more important to her and the Ontario government than the children who are in the care of the provincial Childrens Aid Societies. In this particular case, were working very closely with Family and Childrens Services of the District of Rainy River to find a solution to this particular situation, Matthews said in response to Hampton. But let me assure you: there is no impending shutdown, she stressed. We are looking to actually improve services to kids, Matthews noted, pointing out the province has increased funding for child protection by $385 million since first elected, and that this years budget contains $30 million more for child protection than last years. She also said the provinces transformation is working, with 41 percent fewer kids and fewer cases. But Matthews also warned, We are notand weve been clear with the CASsgoing back for yearend funding to fund those deficits. Those days are behind us. In response to Jones questions, Matthews stated there has been unsustainable growth in spending Please see FACS, A11

Steel going up at library site

By Duane Hicks Staff writer After months of groundwork at the site adjacent to the Memorial Sports Centre, the form of the future Fort Frances Public Library and Technology Centre is starting to take shape, with steel girders now being erected there. Community Services manager George Bell said Monday that the foundation slab has been poured, and all the electrical and plumbing roughing that goes into it has been completed, with work entering its next phase. We hope to have the steel up by the end of the week, Bell noted, adding that quite a bit has been erected since late last week. The steel work is being done by the crew which also is doing it at the new school on the Robert Moore property, and has been going back and forth between the two sites. Bell said residents can expect to see wooden trusses put up starting next week, and a roof built in the following weeks. He added that with winter on its way, the construction crew obviously wants to get inside as soon as possible. Also at the new library site, the parking lot curbs have been poured and the granular A material put down. Paving may take place next week (weather permitting). Bell said the new facility hopefully will be ready to move into next May or June, although there still may some work to be done, such as brickwork on the exterior. But the preparations havent been limited to the site work. Please see Steel, A10

Colourful awareness
Jolene Morrisseau and Erin Devlin, staff members with the District Mental Health Services for Older Adults Program, showed off just some of the colourful mums that will be distributed to long-term care facilities and seniors manors across the district to raise awareness for Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Ontario, which falls on Oct. 19 this year. Peggy Revell photo

No appeal filed on Alberton re-zoning decision

By Peggy Revell Staff writer With no appeal underway after Alberton councils denial of a zoning bylaw amendment, Weechit-te-win Family Services Inc. is looking into other possibilities for the relocation of its Training and Learning Centre (TLC). The decision was made not to appeal the decision of Alberton primarily because of the cost and time associated with pursuing that, said Clint Calder, legal counsel for Weechi-it-te-win. I think the parties felt that appeal would likely be successful, but it would just take too long and be too expensive, he noted. But Calder cautioned this decision doesnt mean Weechi-it-te-win necessarily is giving up on the TLC facility eventually being relocated to the contested property in Crozier, just that the agency isnt pursuing it as urgently as they were initially. I wouldnt say things have entirely stopped, Calder noted. I would just say that people are just kind of regrouping and trying to figure out whats going to be done. The issue first surfaced earlier this year when Alberton resident Gayle Arpin requested a zoning bylaw amendment that would have seen a portion of her land located Please see No, A10

Inside
Energy saving program launched
Small actions can make a big difference was the message last Wednesday as Union Gas and the Rainy River District School Board launched a new program at J.W. Walker School that will see students and staff receive free Energy Savings Kits. Its a $35 retail value that were providing free and at no cost for the board and no cost to the households, Jonathan Foulds of Union Gas said about the kits.

Lifestyles
Oktoberfest another hit
On Saturday night, more than 180 people came to the Memorial Sports Centre for an evening of fun and games to help support the Riverside Foundation for Health Care. Along with raising a lot of fun, Oktoberfest also raised a lot of fundsnetting more than $17,000 for district health care. In addition, Gillons Insurance Brokers presented a gift of $5,000 to the foundation for the Rainycrest beautification project.

Sports
Muskie golfers fall short
The Muskie golf team failed to use home course familiarity to their advantage at the NWOSSAA championship last Thursday at Heron Landing on Couchiching. The black-and-gold finished in fourth place overall with a fourperson total of 369. St. Ignatius (Thunder Bay) earned the lone team berth to the all-Ontarios next week with a 338 total.

See story on A3

See story on A5

See story on C1

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

FORT FRANCES TIMES A11

Town reveals deal to buy Sunny Cove Camp Dont over-cook your Thanksgiving turkey
More from A1 booking time the following year, if possible; the town will maintain the primary use of the property as a camp for youth of the district, with the understanding that others uses of benefit to youth, families, and the public are encouraged, as well; and if the town ever chooses to divest itself of the operation and ownership of the property, then the town turn it over to an organization that, as closely as possible, parallels the original intent and vision of Kiwanis Sunny Cove Camp, and not to a private entity to make a profit. Longtime Kiwanian Dr. Bob Lidkea, speaking on behalf on the service club, said he feels the agreement is the best way to go. Our membership, like most other service clubs, has been declining, he noted. In 1961, the club had 67 members. Today, we have 22. The average age is high, and we have several members on the Sunny Cove Camp committee that will be called Kiwanis Sunny Cove Camp and a Town of Fort Frances advisory board is to be established that will ensure the present usage will be maintained to certain camp users. All bookings are to be made through the town and the present system of rotation will be maintained with existing users having priority, he explained. It is our opinion that the offer to the Town of Fort Frances to take over ownership of Kiwanis Sunny Cove Camp is the best way to preserve and maintain the camp for the use of the district population, Dr. Lidkea concluded. Mayor Roy Avis said town council and administration, with the full co-operation of the Kiwanis Club, has done due diligence in reviewing the assets and operations of the camp prior to drafting the agreement, and believes the agreement is going to be a win-win situation. This agreement will continue to provide a much-needed service for families in Fort Frances and district, and also cement the future of Sunny Cove Camp, he remarked. I think the decision we make will enhance the quality of life in this area for many years to come, the mayor later added. Briefly reminiscing about the camp, Mayor Avis also noted theres no doubt Sunny Cove has touched many lives in this community. What a feel good story this is, enthused Linda Hamilton, who was among the residents offering input at last nights meeting. I cant imagine anybody having anything bad to say about this. How gracious of the Kiwanis, she added. And being the volunteer that I am, I know its getting harder and harder and harder to get people to volunteer. We can now advertise and say, Fort FrancesOn the beautiful shores of Rainy Lake and actually own something on the shores of Rainy Lake, Hamilton noted. Thank you, Kiwanis and town council, she concluded. I hope things go well because this is a wonderful, wonderful opportunity for us, I think.
Chef Dez On Cooking Thanksgiving weekend is now on the horizon. Enjoying the aroma of a turkey roasting in the oven on a cool autumn day revives many warm and comforting childhood memories for me. My last column focused on cranberries and sweet potatoes, so its only fitting to discuss turkey and stuffing. Although there are a growing number of vegetarians in our society, the majority of our Thanksgiving Day meals will include a turkey accompanied by a bread dressing of varying types. The problem that most frequently plagues people who attempt roasting this traditional fowl (stuffed or not) is over-cooking. Roasted turkey meat should be moist when cut into, not dry. The breast is always the victim of this predicament since it has a far lower fat content than the dark meat sections (fat always aids in keeping cuts of meat juicy). I have talked to many people, and it seems like everyone has a trick to achieve this. Several claim that roasting the turkey upside down (i.e., breast side down) for the first half of the cooking time will produce a moist bird. The juices, following gravitys pull downward, collect in the breast section of the turkey, justifying this method. The top exposed dark meat is fatty enough to be able to supply excess juices while still retaining a sufficient amount of moisture. The second half of the cooking time will be ample to achieve the browning required for an attractive presentation. The only downfall to this method is that the breast will be left imbedded with lines from the roasting rack, thus blemishing the appearance somewhat. I practice a different method in my home. First, I rub the bird completely with butter and even trap some bacon slices between the skin and the breast meat. I keep the turkey breast side up, but completely seal the top of the roasting pan for the first three-quarters of the cooking time (I usually use a wide sheet of aluminum foil or the roaster lid with aluminum foil around the seams). By doing this, it creates a steaming and self-basting environment, thus keeping the meat moist. Many argue that this is not roasting, but steaming, and therefore refuse to accept it. However, the turkey browns beautifully during the last part of the uncovered cooking time, providing a fantastic presentatioand the meat will be moist! Stuffing a turkey also contributes to over-cooking if one is not careful in preserving moisture. In order to cook the inside stuffing to a safe temperature, the complete cooking time is obviously lengthened and jeopardizes the turkey itself. Many are in the practice of cooking stuffing separately in a casserole dish for this exact reason. This, however, will sacrifice the flavour the stuffing would have derived from the juices of the turkey. I always stuff my turkey and cook it accordingly to the steaming method described above, and never have any problems. A whole stuffed turkey must be cooked to a high enough internal temperature in order to kill bacteria and provide a safe meal. The stuffing must reach a minimum of 165 degrees F while the innermost part of the thigh must be a minimum of 180 degrees F. This is why recipes are always vague when it comes to recommending a time period for cooking. I recommend using an oven-proof thermometer that you leave in the turkey, or at least an instant read thermometer. Stuffing does not have to be made out of bread. Many are made with an abundance of different fillers and flavourings. There are countless delicious stuffing recipes available to us, but there is one simple rule to follow for all of them. Before stuffing the bird, taste and re-season the stuffing accordingly. This will prevent it from a bland entrance at the dinner table when its too late to turn back.

Dr. Robert Lidkea

have done far more than their share, Dr. Lidkea added. The mayor and council were aware of our dilemma and did not want to see this facility fold or go into private hands, so negotiations have been ongoing to protect the camp and maintain its current use, and also try to enlarge the use by developing town programs and possible area seminars to increase income, he noted. Dr. Lidkea said the camp still

FACS funding fight taken to Queens Park

More from A1 at CASs Over the last 10 years, spending has almost tripled. Its gone from about $500 million to $1.4 billion, she noted. We have been working with CASs for the past several years, Matthews added. Last year, we made it very clear that there would be no end-of-year funding for them. Weve reiterated that this year. We actually have $30 million more in this years budget than in last years budget. The difference is that we are not going to be able to do the end-of-year top-ups. Matthews pointed to the Liberal governments move to establish a commission to promote sustainability in the child protection sector. The question is about the mandate, she stressed. Thats why were moving forward with a commission that will actually look at what is driving the costs. Why is it costing so much more to deliver service? We know that this is a very important responsibility of government, but there are things that CASs do that are actually not part of their legislative mandate, Matthews argued. Its very important that every CAS look very hard at the range of services they provide and make sure they can meet their budget this year. Since the funding shortfall at FACS here first was reported by the Times, not much has changed concerning the situation, said Bob McGreevy, president of the board of directors at FACS. Were still hoping for a negotiated resolution. Were confident that there will be one, but were not there quite yet, he remarked, pegging the exact deficit FACS faces at $604,000. Were continuing to look for cost-savings and thats pretty much it, he added. Several factors are behind the budget shortfall at FACS, McGreevy had said, most of all which essentially we feel are beyond our control, including declining provincial revenues because of the economy, which has led to funding reductions to child welfare agencies across the province. This has resulted in ministryimposed caps on the amount that can be spent on infrastructure (i.e., building costs, telephone lines), which falls under administrative costs, McGreevy explained, noting that because FACS is a smaller board, it does not have the economy of scale that bigger agencies have. Another factor in the budget shortfall also includes year havingfor the first time in the history of FACStwo children in care who require very expensive, intensive care in an institution that the organization is paying for out of its existing budget. In light of the budget crunch, FACS has been looking into what measures can be taken to reduce costs, including short-term elimination of training, travel, and a reduction of meetings, as well as considerations over staffing allocations. FACS also has been providing services to other organizations for free, but will be looking at imposing fees and user fees to increase revenues. Other Northwestern Ontario CASs also are being hit by funding shortfalls. The province also has faced a backlash from the Ontario Public Service Employees Union, with OPSEU president Warren Smokey Thomas accusing the McGuinty government of treating the lives of Northern Ontario children as throwaways. Services for children and families across Northern Ontario are about to collapse because the government is simply not providing enough money to fund them, Thomas charged in a statement. In fact, this funding crisis has spread across the province, and soon the entire system will implode, he warned. The government has basically said to the agency, Too bad, deal with it, we arent giving you any extra money, Thomas added. They have put a price tag on these kids heads, and if its too expensive to care for them, then thats not their problem. Thomas called for an immediate reassessment of how the province is funding children and family services across all of Ontario. The entire system is in crisis due to a severe lack of proper funding, Thomas argued. The Ontario government, a Liberal government, must put children and youth first, no matter where they live in the province. Premier McGuinty must address this immediately, before an irreversible tragedy occurs.

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2009

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Printed in Canada Volume 116 Number 32

ISSN 0834-6283 PAP No. 07429

FACS turns to credit line for finances

By Peggy Revell Staff writer

INSIDE

Facing a $604,000 deficit, Family & Childrens Services of the District of Rainy River has had to tap into its $450,000 line of credit as it struggles to make it to the end of its financial year. The decision to access this line of credit came after a lengthy discussion by the board of directors, explained its president, Bob

McGreevy. We have a line of credit that we use for normal business transactions because cash is always coming and going, but weve never used our line of credit to actually pay foster parents or pay salaries or to pay rent, he noted. At the ministrys request, we have decided we would use our line of credit so that we could continue to operate as long as we could, so we have gone ahead and

done that. The impact of using this line of credit means the agency now is borrowing from the bank, which means it will have to find a way to pay the money back, along with interest payments which we dont want, McGreevy said. As first reported by the Fort Frances Times earlier this fall, the $604,000 deficit arose due to several reasons, including declining provincial revenue and fund-

ing, ministry-imposed caps on infrastructure which affect smaller agencies, and because this year FACS has in their care children who require expensive, intensive care in an institution, according to McGreevy. FACS currently is waiting for a response from the Ministry of Children and Youth Services after filing a Section 14 appeal, McGreevy noted. This appeals process is one where

an agency can make its case to the ministry for funding adjustments if it feels it is operating under extraordinary circumstances and isnt being funded, he explained. We went through that process in the beginning of November, and we hope to hear a response within a week or two of the most, McGreevy said, adding this appeal process might mean enough money from the ministry for FACS to Please see FACS, A5

Class learns all about giving

After reading books about helping others and giving to those in need, students in Hue Eldridges Grade 2/3 at Robert Moore School here decided they wanted to make a difference for a local family this holiday season by sponsoring one through the Salvation Army.

Council eyeing 2% hike for most user fees

By Duane Hicks Staff writer While the 2010 user fee schedule will not be voted on until a Dec. 21 meeting, town council agreed Monday that most user fees likely will see a two percent jump. The two percent hike affects 400-plus services provided by the town, ranging from building permits and marriage licences to taxi cab licences and public hall rentals. Treasurer Laurie Witherspoon explained the two percent increase is based on the Consumer Price Index, which increased 1.8 percent between October, 2008 and October, 2009. I think a two percent raise across the board is reasonable and logical, said Coun. Andrew Hallikas, adding that while user fees only make up a small amount of corporate revenue (three-five percent), they are a fairer form of taxation than property tax increases. He noted that by keeping up with the CPI, the town isnt devaluating its services. If the town didnt raise user fees from time to time, theyd get behind the eight ball, he argued. Coun. Sharon Tibbs agreed to the two percent, as did Coun. Paul Ryan, who said the two percent increase is probably the thing to do and it does fall in line with the CPI. Coun. Rick Wiedenhoeft also said he agreed with the two percent hike, especially if it means not having to cut services and keeping down a general tax increase. Coun. John Albanese said he didnt see why taxpayers had to be punished with higher user fees, but that if they have to be increased, two percent is the upper limit. Coun. Ken Perry said two percent was okay, but nothing above that. Mayor Roy Avis said user fee increases should be two percent for all fees. If the new schedule becomes a bylaw, most user fees will kick in Jan. 1 although some others, such as those for the Memorial Sports Centre, wont come into effect until June 1 because ice rental fees, for example, already have been contracted out for the 2009-10 hockey season. But user fees that currently include the GST (such as ice surface and pool rentals, auditorium rentals, boat slips, cemetery-related fees, airport fuel, etc.) will go up another eight percent come July 1 when the new HST is implemented. If a user fee does not currently include the GST, it will not have the HST added to it, noted Witherspoon. For example, an annual pool/ fitness centre membership for an Please see Council, A5

See story on A2

Holly Daze deemed success

It may have been the change in the weather or perhaps the sudden realization that Christmas is almost here. Whatever the reason, people from across the district turned out in great numbers last Friday and Saturday to celebrate the annual Holly Daze festivities in Emo.

See story on B1

Retailers pleased with local shopping

By Heather Latter Staff writer Despite the struggling economy this holiday season, along with the lure of big city shopping and the convenience of online buying, it seems many residents are making their Christmas purchases right here at home and supporting local businesses. Although its difficult to gauge just how much local shopping has taken place so far this year, business owners are pleased with the traffic and sales in their stores. And people only have to look down Scott Street to see the hustle and bustle of busy shoppers. Weve been having lots of people in the store, noted Richard Boileau of McTaggarts. Weve seen lots of new faces in this year, too. And lots of people are telling us that they want to support local jobs. Being that jobs are tough this year, everyone knows the more they shop at home, the more they help local jobs, Boileau added. Seems like the weather has got people rollinga little bit of snow does wonders, enthused Ken Manty at Howarths Home Centre. Its been pretty steady. . . . In comparison to last year, I would say theres probably more local shopping going on, Manty added. Boileau noted some of the hot items this season at McTaggarts are childrens animal hats and holiday dresses for youngsters. But jeans, hoodies, and purses also have been selling well. Meanwhile, Manty said flat-panel televisions, along with Blu-ray and DVD players, are popular electronic gifts this year. Over at Northwoods Gallery & Gifts, Connie Cuthbertson noted candles and handbags as some of the seasons hot sellers. I would say [the local shopping] has been about average for us, but average these days is way ahead of the curve, I guess, she remarked. The people that are coming in the store are thrilled to see all the different items we have here . . . and were just doing our best to offer as much as possible. All we ask is you just give us a chance, she added. Cuthbertson said shes had calls from Thunder Bay and Winnipeg to ship products because they cant get them in the city. Its kind of ironic that people Please see Retailers, A5

On Santas knee
Ten-month-old Erick Burns seemed to enjoy visiting with jolly St. Nick during the annual Cookies and Cocoa with Santa event Saturday at the Fort Frances Museum. Children not only were able to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus but also took part in stringing popcorn, decorating treats, and playing games to get into the Christmas spirit. Heather Latter photo

THawks plagued by slow starts

The Fort Frances Thunderhawks cant seem to wake up and smell the coffee wafting through the air. Perhaps an industrial strength fan blasting the aroma of caffeine into their dressing room would do the trick. The Thawks have been plagued by slow starts in their three games so far this season.

Pay raise likely for next council

By Duane Hicks Staff writer With the 2010 election coming up in October, the next term for mayor and council likely will see them get better pay than the current one. This and other details were discussed last Thursday morning when the remuneration and travel policy committee met to review an updated policy for both town staff and members of council. The proposal includes an increase to remuneration to the positions of mayor and council which, if approved, will come into effect Dec. 1, 2010 to coincide with the installation of the 2010-14 council. The draft policy recommends the position of mayor be paid $23,000 per year, instead of $22,322 as it is now, while councillor remuneration will increase to $12,000 from $10,507. The deputy mayor also will see an increase from $10,507 to $13,500. The committee pointed out the increase to pay is small, adding the last time the salary structure was revised was in 2003, at which time the pay for mayor and council actually went down when the benefits package they used to receive was cutreducing total salaries by about $4,000. The benefits package continues to be offered as an option council members can buy into at their own expense if they so choose. For example, the change in the mayors salary only represents a three percent increase over seven years (2003-10) while the pay hike for councillors only amounts to a Please see Pay, A5

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Wednesday, December 9, 2009

FORT FRANCES TIMES A5

FACS turns to credit line for finances

More from A1 make it to March 31, which marks the end of its fiscal year. Right now, our cash flow projections indicate we should be able to continue to operate to the end of February to the first week of March, he indicated. And after that, Im not sure what well do if we havent been given any extra support. Because the ministry was the one to request that FACS use a line of credit, McGreevy reasoned that by following their request, the FACS board hopes the ministry will be more willing to give them additional funding support following the Section 14 appeal. Which they may or may not dowe took a chance, he admitted. In the meantime, FACS has been implementing various cost-saving measures. Were trying very hard to stretch all of our dollars, and to continue to provide service for families and kids who need help and need support and need protection, McGreevy stressed. Thats the key for us. Looking for all kinds of way to save money, cutbacks at FACS so far include a no-travel restriction on staff and no non-essential training, said McGreevy, noting there are several positions at FACS which have become vacant and not filled. We havent laid off any of our child protection staff because our staffing levels are already so small that we felt, as a board, that we would be compromising our obligations to guarantee protection if we laid off child protection staff, he explained. So we havent done that, and I dont see us doing that, but its still going to be a cash crunch as we get to March of next year, he warned. Across Ontario, 49 Childrens Aid Societies are facing an overall funding shortfall of $67 million, according to the Ontario Association of Childrens Aid Societies, which also noted agencies in Northern Ontario have received some of the largest cutbacks and are facing a collective shortfall of $16.9 million. More than three dozen Childrens Aid Societies, including FACS, have filed for Section 14 reviews, and many already have been making cutbacks to staffing and programs. The Childrens Aid Society in York Region, for instance, laid off 18 workers while the WindsorEssex Childrens Aid Society has cut certain programs and will be laying off 12 people in February. Having already cut 7.5 staff positions, the Peel Childrens Aid Society estimated it will have to cut 24 more to eliminate its 2.1-million deficit. Along with reviewing these Section 14 appeals, the Ministry of Children and Youth Services announced the formation of The Commission to Promote Sustainable Child Welfare back in June to work in partnership with Childrens Aid Societies and the government to find the most efficient ways to improve outcomes for children and youth in care. Appointments of who would sit on the commission were made in November, with Ene Underwood, Barry Lewis, and Dr. Wendy Thomson selected. But both NDP and Conservative MPPs have continued to slam the Ontario governments actions during question period at Queens Park when it comes to the funding of Childrens Aid Societies across the province. The children of this province do not need another commission, argued Ontario NDP leader Andrea Horwath. They need their Childrens Aid Societies to be there for them when they need them. The only pathway this government is preparing is a pathway to bankruptcy and closure of Childrens Aid Societies, she charged.

Bear-y generous fans

The Muskie girls exhibition game against the International Falls Broncos here last night had to be halted while players collected teddy bears chucked onto the ice by fans. The plush toys came raining down from the stands after Danielle Jeans goal as part of the teams annual Teddy Bear Toss for the local Salvation Army. Unfortunately for the blackand-gold, it was all the only offence they could muster in dropping a 2-1 decision to the visitors. Dan Falloon photo

New health services plan for northwest unveiled

Press release The North West Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) has a new Integrated Health Services Plan, which identifies the priorities for health system improvements in Northwestern Ontario over the next three years (2010-13) and the plans to address them. The IHSP, released Nov. 30, builds on the findings and progress made on the priorities in the LHINs plan for 2007-10. The plan was developed using the information gathered through significant engagement and discussion with local health-care providers, communities, health-care workers, and the public throughout the region. The priorities in the new IHSP are focused in three primary areas: access to and integration of services, enablers, and people of Northwestern Ontario. The priorities include, by focus area: 1. Access to and integration of services Department wait times and alternate level of care; Primary care; Specialty care and diagnostic services; Chronic disease prevention and management; Long-term care services; and Mental health and addictions services 2. Enablers Health human resources; eHealth; and Integration of services along the continuum of care 3. People of Northwestern Ontario Aboriginal health services; and French language health services We thank the numerous residents and health-care professionals of Northwestern Ontario who met with the LHIN since 2007, said Janice Beazley, chair of the North West LHIN board of directors. We believe the health system is best shaped by the people who use and work within it, she noted. Their input ensures that our plan will build a better health care system over the next three years. The IHSP is the result of efforts of many people, and it will guide our decision-making and funding decisions for the next three years, echoed North West LHIN CEO Gwen DuBois-Wing. It provides overall direction and opportunities for alignment of health services and providers in the northwest. The IHSP is an action plan that the North West LHIN will carry out together with our health-service providers, partners, and communities, DuBois-Wing added. Thunder Bay-Superior North MPP Michael Gravelle applauded the three-year plan. Once again, the North West LHIN is taking an innovative and integrated approach to delivering health-care services to our vast region, reaching out to ensure people in all our communities can access the health care they need, he said. Thats an enormous challenge, but this plan includes input from the people who matter mostthe people of Northwestern Ontario and also addresses the priorities for health care outlined by the Government of Ontario, Gravelle noted. Thunder Bay and district continues to see major advancements in the provision of health-care services, said Thunder Bay-Atikokan MPP Bill Mauro. This Integrated Health Services Plan will help guide decision-makers over the next three years, and reflects the priorities of stakeholders in our area, he remarked. Each of the 14 LHINs review and revise their IHSP every three years to ensure local priorities are on track and reflect the current needs of residents and service providers. The IHSP was created using information gained from extensive engagement. In 2007/08, the LHIN hosted more than 150 sessions, including forums, roundtable discussions, meetings, workshops, and training for some 2,500 participants. This activity was doubled in 2008/09, with more than 5,435 individuals engaged at 331 sessions across the northwest. The largest single engagement initiative was the Share Your Story, Shape Your Care project, which collected input from more than 800 people. The North West LHIN 2010-13 IHSP has 11 priorities for change to the health-care system in Northwestern Ontario. It is available at www.northwestlhin.on.ca under the IHSP tab.

Council eyeing 2% hike for most user fees in 2010

More from A1 adult (resident) currently costs $424.52 (not including GST). With a two percent increase, it will cost $433.01 (not including GST). With GST added, it will cost $454.67. But after July 1, 2010, it will cost $489.31 because of the HST. I just hope people dont blame us for the HST when they go to rent a boat slip and its $100 bucks more than last year, said Coun. Ryan. Its something we have no control over, he stressed. Meanwhile, user fees that will go up more than two percent are a couple related to waste management. This is to make up for decreasing revenues at the landfill and the increasing cost of recycling. Bag tags will go up from $1.75 to $2 (a 12.5 percent increase) while the minimum charge for tipping at the landfill will jump from $15 to $16 (a six percent increase). Other tipping fees, like the rate per tonne, only will go up two percent. A staunch opponent of bag tags from the start, Coun. Perry said that if they are going up in price, it only should be two percent just like everything else. Operations and Facilities manager Doug Brown noted $2 is the same amount Dryden and Kenora charges for bag tags. He added there has been a $58,000 increase in operating costs for waste management services this year. And if council doesnt want to put it directly on the taxpayers, it has to be made up through user fees. Brown noted in passing that many municipalities do not give their residents a free receptacle like Fort Frances does. But Coun. Perry responded that people are going to recycle more and more in the future, use composting, and otherwise reduce waste, and so the town has to do something if this is going to drive up the price of bag tags. We have got to find a way to make money or sponsor this recycling thing, he stressed. To charge the people more and more money to pick up their garbage isnt going to do it, he argued, adding that if the landfill site needs to be funded, it should be through general taxation and not bag tags. Mayor Avis noted the town has to be cautious with increasing the cost of bag tags, and cant see council raising the price over $2 next year. He added that increasing the price of bag tags hurts families the most because theyre the ones who use more than the one free bag the town allows. The user fee schedule also will receive fine-tuning between now and the Dec. 21 meeting. Mayor Avis, for instance, has asked the Administration and Finance executive committee to look at why photocopier rates are not the same at the town hall, museum, and library, as well as having separate rates for low back and high back curbing. Water and sewer rates for 2010 are not a part of the user fee schedule and will be discussed separately during the budget process.

Pay raise likely for new council next year

More from A1 14 percent increase over that same span. In the revised policy, the benefits package option will remain status quo. Another change is that per diem rates will be increased from $120/ full day to $150/full day (five or more hours) or $74/half-day (less than five hours). Mayor Roy Avis said a change has to be made to more fairly compensate councillors who sit on any number of the 30-plus town committees. For example, unless a councillor is retired or independently wealthy, they often are expected to take several hoursor sometimes even daysoff work to attend meetings in and out of town. The per diem should help compensate them for having to miss work, the mayor said. On the same note, when per diem rates are applicable will be clarified. Right now, members of council are eligible to get paid for basically any meeting that takes place out of town. The revised policy indicates that mayor and council only will get paid per diems to attend meetings when so authorized by a resolution of council. These resolutions would come forward when, for instance, council states its intent for mayor and/or councillors to attend a certain conference, like the multi-day Northwestern Ontario Municipal Associations annual general meeting, or appoint one of its members to a body, like the Rainy River District Municipal Association. Mayor Avis said making the council resolution a per diem stipulation not only will clarify when per diems are to be claimed, but provides transparency to the

Retailers pleased with shopping

More from A1 think bigger is better, but thats not necessarily the case, she noted. Paul Sunstrum of Canadian Tire here also feels people are shopping locally this season. Sales have been strong, he remarked, noting the store recently offered a 20 times Canadian Tire money promotion. It was both to encourage sales and thank customers for supporting us. Sunstrum noted its always a busy time of year, and that they are doing the best they can to keep the shelves full and to provide a good value for shoppers. Fort Frances has everything you need, stressed Chamber of Commerce manager Anthony Mason. There really is no need for people to be going out of town to do their Christmas shopping. The prices arent that much different, and you spend money on gas and usually a hotel, he reasoned. He indicated the Chamber is promoting local shopping through Shop Local signs in store windows and a draw, in conjunction with B93, for Chamber gift certificates. Every dollar spent at home is a dollar used at home, Mason stressed. We want people to shop at home and support the local businesses so they are here in the future, he added.

Can we get this, Mom?

Aiden Wielinga eyed up a plate of goodies for sale at the Riverside Foundation for Health Cares Bake Sale Extravaganza fundraiser Sunday afternoon at the Little Beaver Snow Park lodge here. The event raised about $2,000 for district health care. Duane Hicks photo

public. The draft policy also clarifies what is inside and outside Northwestern Ontario for the purposes of adjusting meal allowances and other expenses. Sudbury and everything west (including Manitoba) are considered inside while locations east and south of Sudbury are considered outside. Mayor Avis noted the travel policy is the same for town employees and members of council. With regards to the use of town vehicles and personal vehicles, the mayor clarified the town van is used for travel most of the time. If anybody elects to use their own vehicle, they dont get paid for mileage but strictly for fuel costs. They also have to sign a waiver regarding using the insurance on their own vehicle while on town business. Committee members also agreed mileage should be aligned with that paid by the Canada Revenue Agency (as the City of Thunder Bay does), and that mileage, food, and other expenses should be reviewed annually. The draft policy now will be forwarded to the Administration and Finance executive committee for review at its Dec. 15 meeting. It, in turn, will make its recommendation to council regarding the policy at a future council meeting. The remuneration and travel policy committee was struck earlier this year upon request of Mayor Avis. The committee consisted of Mayor Avis, Couns. John Albanese, Ken Perry, and Rick Wiedenhoeft, clerk Glenn Treftlin, deputy treasurer Debbie Scofield, and human resources manager Christine Ruppenstein.

Fort Frances Times

AND RAINY LAKE HERALD
$1.19 plus 6 GST, $1.25 U.S.
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Printed in Canada Volume 115 Number 42

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Trio off to Alabama to push town, lake

By Duane Hicks Staff writer

INSIDE

Local delegates are en route to the 2010 Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo, which runs this Friday to Sunday in Birmingham, Ala., to promote Fort Frances and Rainy Lake as a place not only to visit and fish smallmouth bass, but for those in the fishing industry to do business. Having made a similar sojourn down to Shreveport, La. last year, Doug Cain and Jim Cumming of the Fort Frances Canadian Bass

Championship will be joined this year by Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce manager Anthony Mason, who also is an FFCBC director. The trio left for Birmingham today, and will spend tomorrow setting up their booth in anticipation of the three-day trade show. With booth space twice as big last year (20 instead of 10), they hope to meet and talk with as many people as possible while handing out pamphlets with information about Fort Frances and Rainy Lake.

Well be promoting Rainy Lake and Fort Frances as a smallmouth [bass] fishing destination, and the other thing well be doing this year, which is new, is were promoting the area as a possible place to do business for the fishing industry, Cain noted. Like last year, the delegates will be asking people who drop by the booth to fill out surveys/entry forms for a draw for a three-day trip for two at Campfire Island. They will be asked questions like have they ever been to Canada, are they aware of Rainy Lake, how

often do they fish, why would they like to win, and so on. Entrants also will get promotional items provided by sponsors Northland Tackle, Fin-tech Tackle, Canada Jam, Canadian Tire, Faculty of Fishing, Rat-L-Trap, Rapala, Bass Man Magazine, Lindner Media, and In-Fisherman Communication. But something new this year will be a Rainy Lake Canadian Fishing Adventure draw specifically aimed at fishing industry personnel. This is similar to the other sur-

vey/entry form, but also includes questions such as whether their companies are interested in doing business north of the border. The prize includes a five-day multi-species fishing trip for two, with a three-day stay at Camp Ontario on Rainy Lake and a twoday stay at La Place Rendez-Vous here. In addition to making new connections, Cain said the trio is hoping to meet with various companies theyve met in the past and follow up on any leads. Please see Trio, A6

Youth foundation gets funding boost

The Good Life for Young People Foundation (Oshki-Aayaaaag Mino Bimaadiziiwin) is receiving almost $300,000 in funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. The three-year grant totalling $293,700 will go towards expanding the foundationthe first and only one in Ontario that focuses on aboriginal youth initiatives.

Province throws lifeline to FACS

By Peggy Revell Staff writer The provincial government has thrown Family and Childrens Services here a financial lifeline following an announcement Monday of $26.9 million in one-time funding for the dozens of Childrens Aid Societies across the province that are facing funding shortfalls. The funding we received is one-time mitigation funding, and it was in the amount of about $430,000, noted Bob McGreevy, president of the board of directors of FACS. We were gratified because the ministry recognizes the exceptional circumstances that we found ourselves in, and they were willing and able to provide us some financial relief. So well be able to continue to operate for the foreseeable future, certainly to the end of this fiscal year and then in the future, McGreevy said. Faced with a deficit of just over $600,000 for this financial year, FACS had tapped into its $450,000 line of credit to make ends meet over the past few months at the request of the ministry, which it now will be able to repay thanks to this funding. While FACS originally had filed for a Section 14 appeal with the ministry, which would have meant a review of their funding for this year, McGreevy said this appeal was unsuccessful as the ministry instead opted to go with this onetime mitigation funding. Were still going to finish the year with a deficit, he warned, saying that at this point FACS anticipates this deficit will be roughly $160,000. So we will have to continue to economize and look for ways of being more efficient while continuing to offer the services that we are obliged to provide to families and children, McGreevy stressed. Over the past several months, FACS has made cutbacks, such as a no-travel restriction on staff and no non-essential training. As well, several positions that have become vacant have not been filled. Along with looking at internal cost-cutting, FACS is looking for external ways to save money, too. One of the things that were doing is were having discussions with agencies in Northwestern Ontario and looking at some partnerships or amalgamations that will, in the end, create a larger agency that is more resilient, I guess, in hard financial times, McGreevy remarked. As first reported by the Times back in September, McGreevy Please see Province, A6

See story on A2

Local man gets vision dog

Life has gotten a little easier for Wayne Lundstrom since he met Sammy. Lundstrom returned to Fort Frances on Friday after graduating as valedictorian of his class at the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides training facility in Oakville, Ont., bringing with him the twoyear-old black Lab which has been specially-trained to help him lead a safer, better life.

Snowy slide
Anne and Rachel McCoy took a bumpy ride down the big tobogganing hill in Alberton on Family Day (Monday) during the townships ninth-annual winter fun day. There was a big turnout for the afternoon as families came out to skate on the Millennium Rink, toboggan, and roast marshamallows and hotdogs over a bonfire. Peggy Revell photo

See story on A5

District businesses saluted at awards gala

By Duane Hicks Staff writer District businesses once again were in the spotlight Saturday night during the 14th-annual Bell Business Awards at the Adventure Inn here. West End Motors, a long-time mainstay on the local business scene, was named Business of the Year (16+ employees). I would say that its very nice to receive that award after 44 years in business here, said owner Roy Avis. Weve had faith in this community. Weve expanded into Emo and throughout the district, he noted. Years ago, when we stared this business, the pavement ended at Wright Avenue and we were part of McIrvine, Avis said. We used to be the furthest dealer in the west end, and thats why we called ourselves West End Motors. Now, were the closest dealer to the central part of town so things

Its our staff that won it for us . . . Ive always said you must earn your business to deserve your business. Roy Avis
have changed, he chuckled. It was very good to win that award, and be recognized by the community and the business leaders of the community, Avis added. Its our staff that won it for us, he stressed. Ive always said you must earn your business to deserve your business. Avis felt the annual business awards is a good night for the district. Its a great thing the Chamber of Commerce and the major sponsor, Bell, has put forward, he remarked, adding its a positive event for the business community and that the award nominees reflect a good cross-section of what happens in business in Rainy River District. The Business of the Year (1-15 employees) award went to The UPS Store here. We love what we do and we have fun doing what we do, said UPS franchisee Lillian Gerley. Just the other day, I was told that when youre nominated for an award, its the community saying that they accept [you]. Well, thank you very much. I am so honoured to be a part of this awards, Gerley added. I thank my staff because I love working with them, and theyre doing a fantastic job. Meanwhile, Blair and Donna Lowey (Loweys Greenhouse) were honoured as Entrepreneurs of the Year.

Error-free play key for spikers

Fort High senior girls volleyball coach Duane Roen was blunt about what his squad had to do to mount a serious challenge at Fridays NorWOSSA playoffs in Dryden. We cant make any mistakes, he remarked.

See story on B1

Were very, very proud to be nominated. We couldnt have done it without you as customers, said Donna Lowey. Were very, very proud to live in this community . . . thank you very, very much. Jennifer Krag (Moss Yoga & Barnswallow Photography) was named Business Woman of the Year on Saturday night. First and foremost, I just want to thank whoever nominated me, a clearly-surprised Krag said as she stepped up to the podium. She noted the last year of her life has seen some big changes, but shes worked hard to be there for her clients, adding all my clients are dear to me. If you werent there at the [yoga] studio every week, I wouldnt have a reason to be doing yoga, Krag reasoned. The support, dedication, and strength that you show when you come and practise with me is very inspiring. Please see District, A6
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59

A6 FORT FRANCES TIMES

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Province throws lifeline to FACS

More from A1 had explained FACSs deficit arose due to several reasons, including declining provincial revenue and funding, ministry-imposed caps on infrastructure which affect smaller agencies, and because this year FACS has in its care children who require expensive, intensive care in an institution. Young people receiving the support and protection of Childrens Aid Societies are some of the most vulnerable children and youth in our province, and we are committed to keeping them safe, Children and Youth Services minister Laurel Broten said Monday in making the funding announcement. This funding will ensure that CASs continue to provide critical services as they work with . . . my ministry to find solutions that are focused on better outcomes for kids, she stressed. This support is appreciated, and will be an important step in meeting the urgent need for funding stability in child welfare, echoed Jeanette Lewis, executive director of the Ontario Association of Childrens Aid Societies. Across Ontario, 49 Childrens Aid Societies are facing an overall funding shortfall of $67 million, according to the OACAS, which also noted agencies in Northern Ontario have received some of the largest cutbacks and are facing a collective shortfall of $16.9 million. Meanwhile, the province is moving ahead with the Commission to Promote Sustainable Child Welfare Works, with the purpose to strengthen service delivery, promote financial sustainability, and improve outcomes for the children, youth, and families who receive child protection services. This commission is made up of three highly-qualified people, explained McGreevy, who have been travelling around the province talking to all sorts of different stakeholders, including [CASs], trying to find out what the immediate issues are and to look for ways of helping agencies . . . become sustainable over the longterm. So we remain optimistic that theyll come up with some good, innovative ideas, McGreevy said. But their mandate is a threeyear mandate, and so I dont know that were going to have much to work with in the immediate future, he admitted. Of the newly-announced $26.9 million in funding, $2.5 million has been earmarked for aboriginal CASs.

Trio off to Alabama to push town, lake

More from A1 We had some interesting talks last year, and even this year, with a couple different companies. We have a couple leads, he remarked. The fact that Rapala uses Rainy Lake as a testing ground, were using that, he stressed. Were using our contacts through the bass tournament. Its tough to measure these things when you walk away from a show, six months after or whatever, Cain admitted. But the town and Rainy River Future Development Corp. made a commitment to do it more than one year because you cant walk away from it after just one year, he argued. [And] with the Classic being in a different location, its a different market, too. Cain said the trip mainly is sponsored by the Town of Fort Frances, the RRFDC, and FedNor, with the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce and FFCBC supplying the legs to actually go down south, and in the latters case, use their fishing industry connections to make it all happen. For example, fishing lure company Fin-tech Tackle again will be hauling their booth and materials from International Falls to Birmingham and back. A couple of district businesses also have gotten involved. For example, they will be giving away 10 cases of Cloverleaf Canada jam at their booth this weekend. Cain said the scope of the Bassmaster Classic is hard to imagine if youve not seen it yourself, calling it the Super Bowl of bass tourneys. Likewise, the trade show in Shreveport last year drew 107,000 people through the gate over the three days. While Fort Frances and Rainy Lake may be a long way from the southern U.S., Cain was amazed at people who recognized the picture of the Noden Causeway at their booth. [They said] Jeez, I drove over that on my way to Lac Seul, Red Lake, Pickle Lake, Sioux Lookout. And our line was, You drove over the best fishing of your trip, Cain chuckled. Our tournament was won a couple years within sight of the Causeway, he noted. It gives us something to talk about. All in all, Cain said he is looking forward to it. It was amazing how small the world was when you were down therethere people who knew people who I knewit was unbelievable, he remarked. And the thing is, doing it the second time, you can work some bugs out that you had the first year and fine-tune your spiel, he reasoned. Mason, who has never been to Alabama but has been to largescale sport fishing shows before, said hes excited to go. I am going to Alabama, its warm down there, he chuckled. Ive never been that far south. Its new to me, he added. Unlike last year, where the bass tourney weigh-ins and trade show took place in separate venues 20 miles apart, all of the 2010 Bassmaster Classic will take place in the same building, As such, Cain said the local delegates will get a chance to see at least some of that event.

Local Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry officer Jeannette Cawston presented a special economic development award to Geoff Gillon (centre) and George Duane Hicks photo Emes of the Rainy River Future Development Corp. on Saturday.

Businesses saluted at awards gala

More from A1 Town of Fort Frances treasurer Laurie Witherspoon was named Employee of the Year. A tearful Witherspoon shared a few words of thanks upon receiving the award Saturday night, but offered further comment Monday via e-mail. What an honour to be recognized as the recipient of such a prestigious award, she wrote. A heart-felt thank you to the nominator for taking the time to forward my name and believing that I was worthy of such an award. The role of treasurer for the Town of Fort Frances is very challenging and demanding given the constant changes that municipalities face, Witherspoon added. I try to stay positive, to keep an open mind, and am committed to do the best job that I can to fulfil the role that I have been entrusted to do. Im very fortunate to have a dedicated treasury staff, to be part of a supportive senior management team, and to have the leadership of mayor and council. Its been truly overwhelming with the number of congratulatory phone calls and e-mails from family, friends, co-workers, and colleagues Ive received since the awards banquet. Thank you everyone. The Customer Service (Individual) award was given to Judy Webster (RBC), who thanked her co-workers for being so good to work with, while Boston Pizza was saluted for Customer Service (Business). Elizabeth and I started our business in November and its been a very busy year, but one of the things that we always committed to each other and to our business was that we would do our best to offer service second-to-none, said Dale Fortes, who is co-franchisee of BP Fort Frances along with wife, Elizabeth Leishman-Fortes. Were working hard at it, he pledged. We have some room to grow and were going to continue to grow, but we thank you very much for this designation and honour. The Safety Award (Business/Individual) went to the Rainy River District Victim Services Program. Manager Peggy Loyie, who took the stage to accept the award, noted the program just turned three years old, and whole-heartedly credited the programs volunteers for tending to the emotional, mental, and physical safety of people who are experiencing trauma. Jack Hedman (Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters) was honoured as the Tony Beyak Memorial Volunteer of the Year. The Accessibility Award was given to Betty-Anne MacKintosh (Supervised Access Program) while Ken and Laurie Pentney (Spruce Greek Golf Course) were named the Small Business Trainer of the Year. Cathy Emes, presenting the latter award on behalf of NCDS Career Works, said the Pentneys couldnt be there to receive it as they were at home waiting by the phone to hear word of the birth of a grandchild. Finally, a special award this year was the 100th Anniversary Economic Development Award, sponsored by the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corp. Meant to honour an organization that has shown dedication towards the growth of economic development in Rainy River District, the award was presented to the Rainy River Future Development Corp. on Saturday evening by local Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry officer Jeannette Cawston. Economic development officer Geoff Gillon credited the RRFDCs success to its board of directors and committee members, adding all I am is a facilitator. If I have something happening out there, you have something happening out there, he added. I need people to do these things and I really appreciate this. The only thing I want to say is Geoff is the Rainy River Future Development Corp. right now, and we really appreciate him, said RRFDC chair George Emes. This years gala drew a total of 56 nominees, a couple of which were nominated in more than one category. Nominations were open to any business in Rainy River District. Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce president Harold Wilson emceed the evening while John McEvoy, regional manager of field services for event sponsor Bell Aliant, greeted attendees. The Fort Harmonies entertained the crowd with some fun songs, including an ABBA medley. There also was a prime rib dinner and a silent auction featuring items donated by local businesses.

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Cash calendar winners

It was a Happy Valentines Day for Courtis Jourdain of Fort Frances, who won the $500 up for grabs Feb. 14 in the Rainy River District Mutual Aid Associations weekly cash calendar draw. Winning $30 for Feb. 14-20 were Ann Tupper (Devlin), Torey Wihlidal (Winnipeg), Patrick Briere (Fort Frances), Dave and Susan Hawn (Kincardine, Ont.), Penny Logan (Fort Frances), Roxanne Wensley (Atikokan), and Gilbert Perreault (Fort Frances). Winning $30 for Feb. 7-13 were Lori and Paul Whatley (Fort Frances), Nathan and Sarah DeGagne (Dryden), Lauren and Larry Brown (Atikokan), Wayne McKay (Fort Frances), Peter Wilkins (Fort Frances), Roberta Wyder (Emo), and Jane Johnstone (Fort Frances).

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Natural Resources Advisory Committee Seeks New Members
The Natural Resources Advisory Committee (NRAC) is seeking open-minded, creative residents of the west half of the Fort Frances District (Mine Centre west to Lake of the Woods) to serve for a term of 3 years on a volunteer basis. A resident for this purpose is a person who has lived for at least 7 of the previous 12 months within this area. Members are needed who have knowledge of and rapport with various community sectors, e.g., aboriginal, agricultural, business, Crown land recreationalists, forest industry, general public, labour, municipalities, resources harvesters and the tourist industry. NRAC members serve to improve government decision-making by advising the Ministry of Natural Resources District Manager on resource management issues, and by communicating with the public. NRAC members act in the broad public interest and promote fair, reasoned advice based on all available facts and information. NRAC members are expected to attend regular meetings and other special functions such as public forums. Funds are available for outof-pocket expenses to attend meetings. Applications for NRAC can be picked up at the main counter of the Ministry of Natural Resources, 922 Scott Street, Fort Frances, Ontario between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Previous applicants are encouraged to reapply. Applications should be submitted to: Chairperson Natural Resources Advisory Committee 922 Scott Street Fort Frances, ON P9A 1J4 Deadline for applications will be Friday, March 5, 2010 at 4:30 p.m. For further information please contact Patti Collett at the Fort Frances District ofce, telephone: 807-274-8603 or e-mail: patti.collett@Ontario.ca Paid for by the Government of Ontario.

Fort Frances Times

AND RAINY LAKE HERALD
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

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Printed in Canada Volume 116 Number 43

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Trio hails Alabama trip as a success

By Duane Hicks Staff writer

INSIDE

If tired feet are a sign of success, then a trip to Alabama last week by a trio of local delegates was a blockbuster. Doug Cain and Jim Cumming of the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship, along with local Chamber of Commerce manager

Anthony Mason, who also is an FFCBC director, got back Monday from the 2010 Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo, which ran Friday through Sunday in Birmingham. Similar to a trip taken to Shreveport, La. last year, they were there to promote Fort Frances and Rainy Lake as a place to fish and for those in the fishing industry to do business.

And while it will take time to see what might result from their efforts, the three did their best to talk to as many people as possible at the major fishing show. It went very well, Cain said yesterday. One thing that we found in Birmingham, versus Shreveport, is there were a lot of people who were familiar with our part of the country because they had moved

from the upper [U.S.] Midwest to retire down there. They would say, I used to live in Wisconsin, or I grew up in Ohio, and we used to go wherever when I was a kid, he noted. It was kind of neat. There was that kind of connection we did not have when we were in Shreveport, Cain added. We ran into far more people that

were familiar with Fort Frances, Rainy Lake, Nestor Falls, and Rainy River District as places to vacation and fish, and thats because an awful lot of people that attended the booth had lived in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri, and either through their jobs changing or retirement, theyd relocated to Please see Trio, A5

Namakan project means hope

The proposed hydroelectric development on the Namakan River means economic and social hope for Lac La Croix First Nation, Chief Leon Jourdain said as the public review period of the projects draft environmental report wraps up by the end of this week.

Provincial funding seen as short-term solution

By Peggy Revell Staff writer Faced with million-dollar deficits, Childrens Aid Societies across the province have welcomed the Ontario governments one-time mitigation funding of $26.9 million but now are left wondering about the state of their budget next year. We were quite pleased, Debbie Leonard, director of administration for Weechi-it-te-win Family Services here, said about the provinces allocation of $942,000 in one-time funding to their agency, meaning their expected deficit of just over $1 million has been reduced and now will be minimal. But despite the provinces funding announcement, the upcoming year is still up in the air. Thats the issue, right? Leonard remarked when asked about how the agency is looking to avoid this same funding shortfall in the upcoming financial year. Were back to square one. We have to start all over again, she stressed. If the agency was short by a million dollars this past year, it probably always will be a million short because of the provinces cut to core funding, she explained, which saw Weechi-it-te-win lose $940,00 in funding last June. This something every agency across the province is facing, she noted. Although we welcome [the funding], it really does nothing for our deficit in future years, Leonard warned, noting they will be meeting very shortly to plan how to keep costs down. When originally faced with this funding shortfall, Leonard said Weechi-it-te-win implemented quite a few cutbacks, including layoffs, a five percent wage cut, and cuts to the pension plan. All in all, about $1 million [in] cutbacks [occurred] to try to reduce our costs, she said, adding that even after this, the agency still was forecasting a $1-million deficit. Prior to receiving the phone call from the ministry, Weechi-it-te-win was ready to take advantage of the political strengthssuch as through the Treaty #3 grand chiefto pressure the ministry to get funding back, Leonard noted. Of the $29.7 million announced by the province of one-time mitigation funding, $2.1 million has been earmarked for aboriginal agencies. Meanwhile, as first reported last week, Family & Childrens Services of the Rainy River Districtwhich had predicted at $600,000 deficitreceived $430,000 from the province. The province either had to provide this funding or you literally would have seen dozens of CAS across the province close their doors, lay off their staff, and cease to provide services to children and Please see Provincial, A5

See story on A3

Spray park achieves goal

The Emo spray park committee has reached its fundraising goal of $150,000 thanks to a $20,000 donation from former district residents Rob and Liana (nee Hyatt) Frenette. Were ecstatic about this, said spray park committee chair Lincoln Dunn. Obviously for us, this is fabulous, he enthused.

Beauty scene
Belles father, Maurice (Caleb Dueck), was surprised by Cogsworth (Conner Pocock) during a rehearsal for Donald Young Schools production of Beauty and the Beast on Monday. Performances will take this evening, as well as tomorrow and Friday, starting at 7 p.m. Tickets, which will be available at the door, cost $10 for adults and $6 for seniors, with children under 12 admitted free. See more photos on B1. Dave Ogilvie photo

Community rug-hooking project in the works here

Ideas wanted
By Duane Hicks Staff writer Organizers are hoping to get local people of all ages hooked on a new community art project which is coming together in Fort Frances. A collaborative rug-hooking project based on the theme What Hooks You Here, which has received funding from the Community Arts and Heritage Education Project (CAHEP), will see community members take turns hooking two pieces over the next year which, when completed, will remain on display at the Fort Frances Museum. Intended to be both a community arts and heritage education project, it will involve creative input from the community while, at the same time, teach the public how to rug hook, explained Debbie Ballard, who along with fellow avid rug hooker Judy Kielczewski, were among those who submitted several hooked pieces to a community art-themed museum exhibit last month. Those same pieces led to a discussion of a community rughooking project at a CAHEP meeting here last month, after which museum curator Pam Cain urged them to apply for funding. They then met with CAHEP coordinator Lila Cano of Thunder Bay a couple of weeks ago, who loved the all-encompassing nature of it, enthused Ballard. Shortly thereafter, the rug-hooking project was given the green light. When I met [Ballard and Kielczewski], they were just amazing. I saw their work at the museum and it is really phenomenal, noted Cano. As a project, it is fantastic, she added, saying the rug-hooking project will see a range of people artists, rug hookers, students, and just about anybody elseworking together to make it happen. And not knowing what theyll come up with is exciting. What were hoping is, say, a writer and maybe a visual artist works in a class to get the kids, seniors, or the learners theyre working with to brainstorm ideas for what the final result could be, said Cano. When you jump off a cliff, you dont know if youre going to fly or where youre going to land, and part of it is because the initial creative work has got to come from the groupswhether it is young learners, older learners, seniors, or community groups, she remarked. Please see Community, A5

See story on B1

Sr. hoopsters snag gold

The Kenora Broncos had provided some late-season headaches for the Muskie seniors boys basketball team. Kenora upset the Muskies 49-41 back on Feb. 4, and nearly repeated the feat the following week before falling 49-46.

See story on C1

This selection of hooked rugs now on display at the Fort Frances Museum is an example of what could be done for the CAHEP-funded project. These pieces were among those crafted by Debbie Ballard, Judy Kielczewski, and Cheryl Behan. Duane Hicks photo

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Wednesday, February 24, 2010

FORT FRANCES TIMES A5

Trio hails Alabama trip as a success

More from A1 the southeastern United States, echoed Cumming. Many of the people had fonds memories of their time spent fishing here, and spent time reminiscing, he added. Oft times, they brought other family members who hadnt been here and were really curious about Rainy Lake. . . . That was really encouraging to see they had a connection to this area, this community, Cumming enthused. Cain and Cumming went to Shreveport last year, but Mason was new to the Bassmaster Classic experience. I think it was a very successful event, he remarked. Mind you, its 1,300 miles away. How many people are we going to attract from down there? Who knows? But the thing is they now know where we are, the people that walked through, Mason reasoned. It was a nice show. I met a lot of good people, Mason added later. One of the highlights was I met a guy [Kevin Ogle] who started up a paper [Coastal Angler] and talked to him for 20-30 minutes, and then he came up to us later and offered us a free quarter-page ad in his paper. I met another guy who was interested in coming up here and doing a sports show. But its all a time game, Mason stressed. Youve got to wait and see what comes out of all of the businesses you talked to. . . . Its a time game to see how many people we met will actually get back to us. That said, he reiterated it never hurts. You go down there and you talk with 2,000 people, and youve made contact with 2,000 people who didnt know about Rainy Lake or Fort Frances, nothing bad will come out of this. Its always a positive thing, Mason noted. Cumming said they made a serious effort to talk with manufacturers and distributors of fishing tackle and gear, and met as many as they could (100-150)even doing so prior to the trade show opening each morning. Many of them were smaller businesses that had an interest in expanding beyond their regional area, he added, noting Fort Frances is a ideal spot for them to expand to, with a central location and an easy access borderperhaps a good location where tackle comes in bulk, is packaged, and then shipped east or west. The Rainy River Future Development Corp. will follow up on any leads in the next several months, noted Cumming. The local trio also got media coverage while down there. Cumming was interviewed by CBC Radios Gord Ellis on Thursday afternoon and Lisa Laco on Friday morning, as well as by Darla Bardelli of popular U.S. radio program, Outdoors In America. Cumming said they also tried to talk to as many outdoor writers, filmographers, and other members of the media they could catch up to, and when possible, had them fill out a survey. They will be holding a draw for members of the media, the winner of which will win a trip to come here and do a story (similar draws will be held for survey participants from the public and fishing industry sectors, respectively). All of these surveys will provide valuable data that could be used for future marketing purposes here. Cumming said the show was laid out better than in Shreveport. And their booth not only was twice as big, but located near the entrance to the weigh-ins, which were held in the same building, bringing by extra traffic. I think the traffic was down a little bit from Shreveport, but we had far more people stop, Cum-

It was a nice show. I met a lot of good people. Anthony Mason

ming said. Perhaps a good sign is we were out of literature Saturday afternoon, our main literature. So we had bass literature, and an In-Fisherman article and a Rapala article to hand out all day Sunday, he noted, adding the crowd attendance was highest that day. The bigger booth also allotted them more room to talk to people. Cumming also said they were grateful that FFCBC mainstay Phil Bangert, who has fished the Bassmaster Elite Series in the southern U.S., helped out at their booth. He was able to put a real credible face as to how good the fishing is on Rainy Lake, and talk about the multi-species fishing and what a fun place it is, he noted. Cumming added many people had a hard time fathoming how big Rainy Lake is. Lay Lake, where the Bassmaster Classic was held, is only 1/12 the size. As for the bass tourney itself, Cain said they were very busy at their booth, but he was able to slip away and see the full weigh-in on Friday and the last half of the weigh-in on Saturday, though not the finals on Sunday. He noted the weigh-ins at the 12,000-seat arena were quite a spectacle. They do it up right, Cain said. The lights are down, everything is hot lights, special effects, disco balls, rock n roll. They do a really good job. The set they have to build there is unbelievable, he added. The media centre was in the arena, so we were back and forth and you could see the set up taking shape. Our booth went up in the morning [Thursday], and in that same morning, the transformation that they made was unbelievable. They were hanging stuff from the ceilings. Its a neat thing, Cain enthused. It gives us some ideas we might want to be able to do, just in terms of layout, when we go to the arena this year [for the FFCBC]. The trip was a joint effort of the Rainy River Future Development Corp., Town of Fort Frances, FedNor, Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce, Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship, and the private sector. Cumming stressed the importance of having those private-sector sponsors, who committed tens of thousands of dollars to their promotional efforts. For example, area resorts such as Campfire Island, Camp Ontario, and Camp Narrows donated trips worth $3,900 apiece as draw prizes while La Place Rendez-Vous donated a two-night stay and meals as part of one of those prize packages. Fin-tech Tackle, which transported their booth and materials from International Falls to Birmingham, probably saved them $1,000 in freight costs while other sponsors, like Northland Tackle and Lindner Media, donated thousands of dollars in lures and tackle, DVDs, and other items to give away. Its a positive sign when you have Fin-tech Tackle, Faculty of Fishing, Northland Tackle, Bill Lewis Lures, Lindner Media, InFisherman Magazine, Rapala, who all use this area to test their products, shoot shows, all of that, and they see the value in promoting the Fort Frances area and Rainy Lake, remarked Cumming. They see value in having their products associated with us, he explained. We might not perceive it ourselves, but these national corporations do.

Help for Haiti

Fort High students Caitlin Fitzgerald and Natasha Bragg (above left) dished up pasta and salad, while at right, Kimberly Perreault and Laura Morrish showed off silent auction items during last Thursday evenings spaghetti dinner fundraiser for Haiti in the high school cafeteria. With support from the public, more than $4,000 was raised for earthquake relief efforts in that country. Peggy Revell photos

Community rug-hooking project in the works

More from A1 You dont know what that end result is going to be. They are part of the creative process, Cano stressed. They are either developing the story thats going to go on the rug that will be hooked by the community or they are going to brainstorming into the design or colourswho knows what? Probably a lot of all of those things. Cano also liked the theme What Hooks You Here. People live in Fort Frances, we live in the north, for a reasonwe live here because we love it, she enthused. There are so many things that draw us to these kinds of places that are exciting and beautifularts, heritage, culture, sports, landscapes, all of it. Were trying to really celebrate why we choose to live in these places. Cano said she also was looking for a project that could be done by absolutely anyone. Whether they are young children or seniors in a home, they should be able to hook a rug and get joy out of participating, out of being part of that. I thought, Thats fantastic. Thats real collaboration and its real inclusivity. Absolutely everyone can get on board and celebrate what their story is. Ballard agreed the idea is to get as many hands as possible working on the rug-hooking pieces. They would like to see the pieces passed around from group to groupwhether they are a quilting group, service group, volleyball team, sorority, co-workers, or Rainycrest residentso that they are truly community projects, and people of all ages can say they worked on this or that part of the finished works. The idea is that it is a heritage craft, and rug hooking is a heritage craft, Ballard noted. And many members of the community can participate. Anyone who can pull up loops can work on the project, and our part will be going around putting on workshops, showing people how to pull up loops. Well get the map of the project done so people will know what to do when they get it with their group, or place or work, or wherever, Ballard added. Community input Many details still have to be sorted out, but the gist of the project is that the rug-hooking pieces will be mapped out based on artwork which, in turn, was inspired by what community members like about living here. Whats needed right now is input from the community so the project can start moving ahead. We dont want to sit and wait, enthused Kielczewski, adding they would like to start seeing stories, artwork, photographs, or any other type of creative input as soon as possible. If someone has an idea, we would certainly be open to it, said Ballard. Its a community project. We want to be as all-inclusive as possible, she stressed. Kielczewski conceded it might not be possible to use every idea for these two pieces, but it doesnt mean theyll go to waste and possibly would be used in a future project. Writers, artists, or anyone with ideas to contribute to the project can contact Kielczewski (2747120), Ballard (274-3250), or the museum (274-7891). As well, any individuals, groups, or teachers interested in working on it once the rug hooking actually begins should contact them at the numbers above. Looking ahead, the project will be more formally explained at open house slated for March 25 at the museum. At that time, Ballard said theyll most likely demonstrate how a piece of artwork, done by Cain, will be turned into a rughooking creation. That workshop is for anyone who is involved in the project or even interested in participating in the project, noted Ballard. If youre a teacher and you think it would be cool for your class to get involved, but arent sure if they could, you can come and you can see. Its fine for kids to do. Its actually maybe a little easier for little fingers. The public also will get a chance to work on it during the first week of June, at which time the project should be well underway. Ballard and Kielczewski will have it at one of the various activities being held in conjunction with the grand opening of Phase II of the Heritage Tourism Project (i.e., the Hallett, lookout tower, and other waterfront enhancements). For those who may not be the crafty type, Ballard said rug hooking shouldnt intimidate anyone. Its not difficult. You only have to be able to pull up loops, she promised. Theres a hook thats designed specifically to grab the wool. I have taught quite a few people to hook and really have to say I have only had two or three who had trouble pulling up loops. Thats the beauty of doing within your groupif you have trouble with it, other group members can pick up your slack, added Ballard. Its not hard. Pulling up loops is a means to an end, thats all it is. Its not the final product, its the means to an end. While everything will depend on how many rug-hooking pieces are done and how large they are, Ballard said the entire project will take abut a year to complete. The size of the piece will depend, ultimately, on how much money is available, she reasoned. It is expensive to buy wool, so the bigger it is, the more wool it takes, the more dye it takes. And until we have artwork, we dont know that. But Id really like to have two piecesone piece done completely by kids, and then one piece done by other interested groups, Ballard said. The project received CAHEP funding in the amount of $1,500 while another $1,000 was raised at the Rodney Brown and Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra concert last week at the Townshend Theatre here. In addition to a myriad of projects in Thunder Bay, Cano said CAHEP is working with 13 communities in Northern Ontarioof which Fort Frances is oneto help get those smaller projects off the ground. Called the Big Picture Initiative, the effort is funded by the Ontario Arts Council, Ontario Trillium Foundation, and Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corp., and sponsored by Bearskin Airlines.

Provincial funding seen as short-term solution

More from A1 families in need, said local MPP Howard Hampton. I think the McGuinty Liberals have been forced to admit that they have been underfunding Childrens Aid Societies. Thats really whats happened here. Hampton also warned the mitigation funding is not going to do anything wonderful. It will merely allow the Childrens Aid Societies across Ontario to continue operating until the end of their fiscal year, which is March 31, he argued. But theyre still under the gun, theyre still in a position where theyre having to reduce services. Theyre still in a position where, for the next fiscal year, theyre going to be in the same situation, he stressed. By the time the end of November or December rolls around, many of them will be out of money again, Hampton warned. Ive talked with the CASs, both with Tikinagan, with Weechi-it-tewin, Ive talked with FACS, Ive talked with Kenora-Patricia CAS, Ive talked to all of them over the past six months and all of them are facing these budget pressures in one way or another, theyre all being pushed over the edge, Hampton said. And not because theyve done anything wrong. If anything, theyve done everything right, he noted. Theyve done everything according to the law of Ontario, and they shouldnt be treated this way. Despite this one-time mitigation funding, Childrens Aid Societies from around the province still are predicting deficits. With a projected shortfall of $2.5 million, Algomas CAS received $1.4 million in mitigation funding, according to the Canadian Union of Public Employees. Thats not enough to sustain programs, charged CUPE 1880 Group VP Melissa Guild. Until funding is fixed in a way that includes long-term base funding for these programs, it will be the same scenario next year-end, she warned. With the current funding formula, there will never be adequate dollars for these critical programs that keep children safely with their families whenever possible rather than coming unnecessarily into care of the agency. And thats a shame because its these types of programs that are good for children, and also actually save money in the long-run by keeping children out of institutional care. Ultimately these cuts hurt children, Guild argued. When it comes to the funding of CASs in the province, the Ministry of Youth and Childrens Services has established a commission to promote sustainability in the child protection sector. Hopefully, through this process, theyll be able to come up with an equitable funding formula for all agencies, said Leonard. But she added the process itself will take three years, with reform possibly taking four or five years. The ministry really needs to examine the existing funding formula, she agreed. In my opinion, it dont think it needs to take that long. This review isnt going to do anything for two years, echoed Hampton. Lets be clear. This review is a political creation to get them past the next election. This review wont even report until after the next election. Its a shell game to cover up the fact that Childrens Aid Societies are simply not getting enough funding to enable them to do their job in many places across the province, he charged. [What] needs to be recognized is this: the funding formula that the McGuinty Liberals are using doesnt address the real needs, Hampton said, arguing past Liberal and Conservative governments have loaded up CASs with new obligations, responsibilities, and processes while not increasing the funding to pay for these initiatives. CASs havent just suddenly ratcheted up their spending, Hampton noted. [CASs] dont have control over who comes through the door, he stressed. So the fact that a CAS [such as FACS] has a balanced budget for three years, and everything is working along in a reasonable way, the next year that CAS might be hit with five, six, seven children who have very complex mental health, social, and psychological issues. The budget process the province has established has to address those realities. As well, the downturn of the economy has meant there more children in need than ever, Hampton addedsomething the province hasnt addressed. This increasing demand for service also has been noted by the Ontario Association of Childrens Aid Societies in its submission to the Ontario governments prebudget consultation. As of the end of fiscal year 2008-09, CASs reported increases of three percent for child protection referrals and two percent for investigations, the submission noted. While these increases appear to be modest, they reflect the growth in caseloads before the full impact of the economic downturn. Research clearly indicates that child protection growth lags behind unemployment and social assistance increases, the submission added. There is no doubt that CAS caseloads for referrals and investigations will rise in 2009-11. Hampton said the province also has implemented rules and regulations for CASs which need to be removed, some of which mean that the agencies now are being forced to deal with what are, in effect, really problems of low income and poverty. The way the rules are now, I think a lot of children are being taken into care not because their parents are bad parents, not because their parents are negligent parents, only because their parents are poor, he noted. Thats wrong. You should not be using the Childrens Aid Societies to address poverty issues, he argued. Those should be addressed in other ways, through Employment Insurance federally and through a more realistic social assistance process provincially.

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INSIDE

Merger possible between area child services

By Peggy Revell Staff writer Pending government approval, Family and Childrens Services of the Rainy River District and the Kenora-Patricia Child and Family Services may merge into one agency as of April 1, 2011. The move comes after FACS, alongside dozens of Childrens Aid Societies across the province faced deficits ranging from hundreds of thousands of dollars into the millions last year. Not seeing an improvement on the horizon, FACS began looking for some alternatives to remain financially viable, explained FACS Board of Directors president, Bob McGreevy, leading them to look for a partnership with the neighbouring Kenora-Patricia Child and Family Services. FACS itself faced a deficit of just over $600,000 for their 2009-10 financial year before the province gave them one-time mitigation funding of $430,000 in February. Several meetings were held with KPCFS, McGreevy noted, some of which included the Ministry of Children and Youth Services who were supportive of this approach, and the two agencies have developed a proposal which they are submitting to the Ministry to merge themselves into one single organization. Its a fairly detailed and comprehensive plan, and we will be fine tuning the plan for the next several months before we get final approval, McGreevy explained. Approval couldoptimistically come by the end of July, and if not by then, August, he estimated, and if it unfolds as it currently exists the merger would be complete by April 1, 2011. This date is also the beginning of the agencies new financial year. One of the things that this proposal addresses is economy of scale, explained McGreevy about how this merger would minimize some of the factors which caused the agency to face a funding shortage the previous year. We are the smallest child welfare agency in the province. As such, our administrative costs, our operating costs, are fairly high because we are small and we cover large geographical distances, he added. Were a little larger than Fort Frances, but provincially both of our agencies are on the small side, commented KPCFS executive director Bill Leonard. And small agencies have difficulty providing services in the areas of financial administration, infrastructure, and all of that kind of stuff because were smaller and we dont have the budget. So our hope is that by working together we can share those areas, personnel, payroll, accounting all of that kind of stuffby pooling those resources we can find some savings, he said. Please see Merger, A3

Abattoir wins provincial award

The Rainy River District Regional Abattoir in Emo has been recognized with a Premiers Award for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence. Its humbling to be recognized and its also gratifying, said Steve Loshaw, president of the Rainy River District Abattoir Inc.

Abby Tolen walked around the Relay for Life in a Team Canada sumo suit, while fellow members of her team, Rebecca Tolen, Jeremiah McCart, Gavin Payne and daughter, Katherine, and Tara Tolley joined her for the opening lap. See more photos A5. Bryce Forbes photos

See story on A7

Relay raises over $54,000

By Bryce Forbes Summer reporter The organizers for the Canadian Cancer Society Relay for Life definitely made the right decision. After a somewhat disappointing relay last year with only 14 teams participating, John Homer said the committee mulled over the idea of taking a year or two hiatus from the event. It was 10 years in and it was hard to get people to volunteer and committee members, said Homer, head organizer for this years relay. It was even hard to get teams involved now, cause now its an old thing, something they have done in the past, he added. But they decided to give it one more chance. And Im sure the Canadian Cancer Society cannot thank the decision enough. The relay, held last Friday at Fort High, raised more then $54,000, smashing last years total of around $40,000. The 21 participating teams also helped Northwestern Ontario break another record, raising more than $400,000 for the first time ever. We were the last relay in Northwestern Ontario and we really wanted to hit $400,000, and before our relay, we were at $384,000, said Homer. We shattered that with about $435,000. (Also contributing to that total was the relay in Rainy River the week before which raised around $55,000). Twelve-year-old Madisyn DeGagne picked up a couple of honours as top individual fundraiser with around $2,400 as well as leading her team, Pink Attitude: Second Generation, win the top decorated campsite. Their site was entitled Pirates of the Cure-A-Bbean: Quest for the Cure and was lavished with two wooden ships, waves, palm trees, and tiki torches. It wasnt even an option to pick anyone else, said Homer. The teams went above and beyond decorating their campsites this year, he added. Please see Relay, A5

Canada Day sporting full schedule of events

Staff Local residents wanting to get out of the house to celebrate Canadas birthday are in luck as the Canada Day Celebrations Committee has lined up quite a few activities for families to see and do here tomorrow. Were very excited with all the different events and activities taking place this year, said committee member Dawn Booth. Considering just six weeks ago, we werent even sure we were going to continue as a committee, the schedule we have now is pretty excitingprobably one of the best line-ups weve had in a few years, she enthused. We certainly encourage everyone to come out, show their Canadian pride, [and] support Canada Day and the new Canada Day Celebrations Committee! Canada Day will kick off with the local Legion ladies pancake breakfast from 7-10 a.m. at the Legion. The cost is $6 for adults and $3 for children five and under. Meanwhile, a 4-on-4 beach volleyball tournament will run from 8 a.m.-9 p.m. out at Pithers Point. To enter a team, contact Amy Wilson-Hands at 274-9045 or momma_wils@hotmail.com or Sarah Gould at 274-2326 or serav4@hotmail.com The Canada Rocks Fort Frances Canada Day parade will begin at 11 a.m. It will start at the Shevlin wood yard and proceed westward on Front Street to Victoria Avenue, ending at the St. Marys Church parking lot. There also will be ice cream for kids immediately following the parade, courtesy of the local Legion. For those entering floats, keep in mind that the parade lineup/judging starts at 10 a.m. at the Shevlin wood yard. Boston Pizza gift cards will be given out to the top three floats. To register a float, contact Booth at 274-1843 or via e-mail at dawnbooth@sympatico.ca While on the waterfront, why not check out the heritage tourism sites, like the Hallett and lookout tower? These will be open from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. As well, the Fort Frances Museum will be open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., where people can pick up information to go on a Canada Day scavenger hunt. Please see Canada, A3

Basaraba drafted by Panthers

If Joe Basaraba has his way, hell soon be headed to the land of sand, surf and sun. The former Muskie was taken in the third round, 69th overall, by the Florida Panthers at the NHL Entry Draft in Los Angeles over the weekend, hearing his name called on Saturday.

See story on B1

Police locate mans body

Youth soccer winds up season
The board of directors for youth soccer could not ask for better weather or more exciting soccer for their season finale wind-up held last Saturday at the St. Francis Sportsfield. From the OPP OPP Underwater Search and Recovery Unit members have located and recovered the body of Clayton Windigo, 24, not far from where the man disappeared on Sunday evening. The body was recovered around 11:15 a.m. yesterday in 10 metres of water. Rainy River District OPP officers and Treaty Three officers had been conducting searches of the Bear Pass area of Rainy Lake since Sunday. The young man had been diving with friends from the bridge on Highway #11. The man entered the water and failed to resurface around 8:30 p.m. on Sunday. The death investigation is being handled by detachment personnel, in conjunction with the coroners office.

See story on B1

Members of Boston Pizzas Bermuda Triangle team, including Kari McLean, left, Sean Wiersema, Jacki-Lynn Geravelis, Sarah Gould, Lionel (Boston Pizza mascot), Allison Hyatt, Adam Armit, and in front, Dale and Elizabeth Fortes, posed in front of their campsite at Fridays Relay for Life.
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FORT FRANCES TIMES A3

Canada Day sporting full schedule

More from A1 Kids also can get a Maple Leaf painted on their face at all three locations. Back over at Pithers Point, organizers of the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championships Daytime Land will be providing a variety of arts, crafts, fun, and games for kids from noon-5 p.m. Activities will include a Bobber colouring contest, Pass the Bass (hot potato), minnow races, a Frisbee competition (get a free Frisbee during the parade), water balloons, and more. And while there, check out the food booths set up by Zion Lutheran Church, St. Johns Anglican Church, Hot Doggie, and the Ice Cream Guys (others may be added to the lineup). There also will be a 50/50 Bingo at Pithers Point from noon-5 p.m. (must be 18 years or older to play). From noon-6 p.m., Outlast Laser Sports laser tag will offers hours of fun for kids of all ages at Pithers Point (the grassy area near the volleyball courts). Meanwhile, the Canada Day Celebrations Committee will be selling Fort Frances High Schools Class of 10 listened to the song Little Wonders, performed by Canada Day LED light-up balloons at Pithers Point all day (and along fellow grads Nelson Bragg and Meagan Empey, during last Thursdays ceremonies at the Me- the waterfront around the time of morial Sports Centre. Peggy Revell photos the fireworks). These will be sold for $3 each or two for $5. To place an advance order, call Booth at 274-1843 or e-mail dawnbooth@sympatico.ca Yet another activity on Canada Day will be the Energy Fitness 1K kids run, which will take place from 12:30-1 p.m. It is open to kids aged two-13, with bandanas, medals, and Freezies for the first 60 entrants. Then from 12:30-5 p.m., the Riverside Foundation for Health Care will selling its Canada Day Cash Lottery tickets at a booth at Pithers Point. Tickets are $20 each, three for $50, or seven for $100. Buy a ticket and get cookies and coffee for free (or pay $1 for cookies and coffee). The draw will take place at the Harbourage Restaurant during the fireworks. The Fort Frances Lakers hockey team also will have a booth at Pithers Point from 12:30-5 p.m., where they will be giving out information and selling raffle tickets. From 1-5 p.m., Miss Teen Northwestern Ontario Felicia Schmutz will have a booth, where she will be providing information about the Miss Teen Canada-World competition and her fundraising for Free the Children. As well, the Christian Motorcycle Club Chapter 811 (The Frozen Chosen) will have a display from 1-5 p.m., where they will give out information about their club and free water. The Canada Kidz Karaoke Challenge will run from 1-2 p.m. under the tent. Open to kids aged three-12, there is a $5 entry fee (payable before singing). The Get Outta The Shower! Come Sing for the Crowd! karaoke challenge then will follow from 2-4 p.m. Open to everyone age 13 years and older, the entry fee is $5 (again payable before singing). Cash prizes for first, second, and third place will be awarded in both challenges. Call Sandra at 274-2524 for more information or to pre-register. A Canada Day tradition here, the horseshoe tournament will be run from 1-3 p.m. at the horseshoe pits. Call Gord Calder to register (2745493). The Canada Day Celebrations Committee will be giving out free cupcakes from 1-4 p.m. at the kids area and under the Bingo tent. Finally, the infamous Great Canadian Bathtub Races will return, with action to run from 3:30-5 p.m. on Sand Bay. For more info or to enter, call Al Boivin at 274-6381. Canada Day will be capped off with the fireworks display at Seven Oaks, which will start around 10 p.m. after the playing of the national anthem. To get the most up-to-date schedule of events, join the Facebook group, Canada Rocks Fort Frances 2010.

FFHS Class of 10

Merger in works for area child services

More from A1 Also contributing to the financial crunch in last years budget was FACS having in its care children who required intensiveand expensivecare, unlike previous years. Because a merged organization is financially larger, it is better able to deal with unexpected expenses that come on, McGreevy reasoned. And thats what really got us into trouble last yearwe found ourselves faced with some extremely high costs that were not predictable and we had to struggle to deal with those. In a larger organization, with deeper pockets, then were hopeful that we wont be faced with the same ups and downs that we had to deal with this year. But while the merger is set for April 1, that still leaves a financial year for both agencies to get through. Certainly, the Ministrys grant structure hasnt changed significantly this year from last year to the current year, McGreevy said. However, because we are putting together a proposal that, over the long-term we feel and the ministry feels will make us more viable, they are supportive of what we are doing. So, I dont think were going to be faced with the uncertainty that we had this past year, he reasoned. If we can save whatever money we can, in terms of operations for this year. Im optimistic that well

The services from both agencies will not be affected. Bill Leonard
have a better year in the current year than we did in the last year. As for jobs, McGreevy stated that the initial proposal to the Ministry doesnt deal with jobs specifically. Were in the process of developing an organizational design. but were not at a point yet were we can, any decisions have been made yet in that regard, he said. The proposed plan would see an entirely new entity created from the two agencies, noted McGreevy, including a new board. The services from both agencies will not be affected, noted Leonard. The Childrens Mental Health Services for Fort Frances and Atikokan, Rainy River will remain in those areas, and we have our own childrens mental health agency up here in Kenora that provides those services. From a clients perspective, they probably wouldnt see any differences in terms of services and the staffing that they deal with, he said. As the two organizations plan the amalgamation, they are looking to make best use of the strengths of both locations, facilities and the people working for them, said McGreevy. Our plan is one in which this will become a new entity and everyone is on an equal footing. One of these strengths for the Rainy River District Agency is the offering of integrated services to the community, he highlighted. We have child welfare and childrens serviceswhich are mandatory in nature, McGreevy explained. But we also have what are called voluntary programs, where parents and children can receive support in a whole bunch of different wayschild development, and other things like that. These integrated services are not a part of the Kenora-Patricia program, he noted, but Rainy River District wants to retain them under the proposal. We view it as a strength, were going to work to ensure that in our district at least the integrated service delivery model is maintained, he stressed. This is a proposal only, and it has not been approved. However, we do feel that when it is fully implemented that the people of our district will be receiving services certainly as good or hopefully better than the services that were able to provide now, said McGreevy. Those of us on the board now are quite optimistic that if done right, this could improve our service.

This years valedictorian, Shane Beck, gave his address to the students near the end of the graduation ceremony this past Thursday.

Bailey Strom was presented with the Rainy River District School Board Leading Student Award by education director Heather Campbell. The award is presented to a graduating student with the highest average in six Grade 12 credits. Strom was also recognized with the Sir Isaac Newton Award and the Euclid Medal.

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2010

Printed in Canada Volume 117 Number 17

Avis to seek mayors chair again

INSIDE
Coun. Albanese also running for re-election
By Duane Hicks Staff writer With the deadline to file nominations to run in the Oct. 25 election coming up Sept. 10, both Mayor Roy Avis and Coun. John Albanese have joined Coun. Sharon Tibbs among those council members seeking re-election. Its not a last-minute decision, stressed Mayor Avis, who filed his nomination papers yesterday. Ive been thinking about it since we knew the day was coming, he remarked. I just felt I have enjoyed working for the people for past 13 years, and I enjoyed the last four years as mayor, so I felt I still have a little bit I can offer, the mayor added. As well, theres many things not completed yet that were working on. For instance, Mayor Avis said hed like to see the ongoing land claim issues resolved, and also more done with the towns sewer and water infrastructure reconstruction plan. All of those things are just coming to fruition, were just starting to reap some benefits, he noted. Mayor Avis said the community has gone through a good few projects in recent years, such as the Portage Avenue underpass, which have caused some headaches. [But] weve seen all those tough days, and I think the days ahead are looking a little bit nicer, a little bit greener, he added. That said, Mayor Avis has no illusions the near future wont be challenging due to the state of the economy. Its going to be a tough road the next four years, and I think I am up to the challenge, he pledged. I dont see [infrastructure money] flowing the way it did in the past. I am sure were going to see Please see Avis, A5

Full slate for local rangers

From being in the bush to on the lake, its been a busy summer for the four local youths who have been working as Ontario Stewardship Rangers with the Ministry of Natural Resources. Im having a really great time here, Sara Roach said about her experience so far.

BIA chair welcoming other ideas for old hotel

By Duane Hicks Staff writer With word earlier this month that the Downtown BIA had a study done to look at possibly levelling the old Rainy Lake Hotel and turning the property into a park area, the issue has sparked some discussion. But BIA chair Connie Cuthbertson said Monday shes happy to see people thinking about other alternatives. My big thing really is not to tear down old buildings, she remarked. I happen to love that building. I did a painting of that building years ago, actually, she noted. I am all for saving the Rainy Lake Hotel, and I think that, ultimately, it could be the showcase of downtown, like it used to years ago, for a very long time. But Cuthbertson stressed the reality is its going to take a lot of commitment, as well as money and time. If there are people that are willing to put themselves out there and say, Hey, you know what? Lets form a committee, lets have this Save the Rainy Lake Hotel committee going, I am 100 percent behind that, she said. Anyone interested in starting a committee is encouraged to contact Cuthbertson at northwoodsgallery@bellnet.ca I would gladly be a part of it, she remarked. I dont have enough time to be the one heading it up, but Id certainly be very involved, and I know that there would be a tremendous amount of support from all of the people downtown to have something done in a positive way with that building. Its been such an anchor since the streets inception, really, she added. It would be a sad shame to have it demolished. But on the other hand, if we cant get something going, it is getting to be a hazard and is going to have to be dealt with sooner or later, Cuthbertson reasoned. Anythings possible . . . its definitely a doable project with the right amount of people with the right amount of passion. Cuthbertson called the Rainy Lake Hotel a big building that needs some TLC, a lot of TLC, and admitted that renovating it is even more difficult that demolishing it and redeveloping the land. The reality is its going to take a good core of committed people and a lot of fundraising, she warned, noting it wouldnt hurt to have a couple of key people with grant know-how to apply for funds. Please see BIA, A5

See story on A6

Ambassador visit
Fort Frances Mayor Roy Avis chatted with Gary Doer, Canadas ambassador to the United States, following a luncheon at the AmericInn in International Falls on Friday. Council members, politicians, business owners, and others representatives from both sides of the border attended the meet-and-greet, which saw the former Manitoba premier talk about Canadian and U.S. trade relations. See story on A2. Peggy Revell photo

110th fall fair deemed success

Thanks to some fantastic weather and an attendance level that exceeded previous years, the 110th Rainy River Valley Agricultural Fall Fair was declared a success. RRVAS president Emily Watson was extremely pleased with the weather, the attendance, and the overall success of the fair.

See story on B1

Smooth sailing for second year of folk festival

By Peggy Revell Staff writer With bright sunshine, a cool breeze, and a solid lineup of talent, the Fort Frances Folk Festival sailed into its second year Sunday at the Little Beaver Cultural Centre. I thought it went really, really well, festival director Jennifer Krag said about the day, which kicked off at 1 p.m. and went late into the night with headliner Sean Ashby (best known for his guitar playing with Sarah McLachlan), Wild Strawberries, Delerium, and more. We didnt have as many people as last year, Krag admitted. But the crowd was really consistent throughout the day. Although last years inaugural festival attracted about 300-350 people, the crowd size fluctuated often over the course of the day. This year also saw more people staying later into the evening compared to the first festival, added Krag, which was really, really nice. I am very proud of the committee, and I believe we have the potential of creating a lucrative and exciting event, said Lindsay Hamilton of the Little Beaver Cultural Centre, who sat on the organizing committee. The talent was exceptional and everything was very well-organized. I wish more people were there to appreciate it. Next year will be even bigger and better, Hamilton vowed. The lineup for this years festival saw new and returning artists, from both near and far. Bands such as Johnny Riverboat and Cheering for the Bad Guy came in from Please see Smooth, A5

FACS merger moving ahead

By Peggy Revell Staff writer A merger between Family and Children Services of Rainy River District and Kenora-Patricia Child and Family Services now hinges on the provincial government picking up the tab for the amalgamation and the debt load of FACS. The proposed amalgamate has received approval in principle from the Ontario Ministry of Children and Youth Services, FACS board chair Bob McGreevy, who also is leader of the amalgamation leadership team, said at a press conference held last Thursday morning. While the Kenora board has approved a motion to begin formal amalgamation talks, its executive director said it comes with the caveat that this new organization not be burdened with deficit or debt of FACS, or the cost of amalgamation. Bill Leonard said the estimated one-time cost of the amalgamation is around $900,000 so far, though Please see FACS, A5

Solid turnout for football camp

Muskie football camp started off on the right foot Monday evening with more than 40 players turning out. While coach Chad Canfield anticipates that some of the 42 attendees will find that football isnt the sport for them, he still anticipates the net gain will result in a competitivelysized roster.

Beaming queen
Megan Veniot was beaming after being crowned the 2010 Emo Fair queen last Thursday evening at the Emo arena. At left, 2009 Emo Fair Queen Taylor Pelepetz looked on. See story, photos on B3. Duane Hicks photo

See story on C1

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Wednesday, August 25, 2010

FORT FRANCES TIMES A5

FACS merger moving ahead

More from A1 noting the province hasnt agreed to an exact figure and wants the two organizations to work to reduce that figure. He said almost half of those costs come from the potential legal fees of having two different unions, based upon estimations from an experienced labour attorney. If things go swimmingly, which is always my hope, then that cost would be lessened by a large amount, Leonard remarked. But plan for the worst, hope for the best, I guess thats been our strategy. The move to amalgamate came after FACS, along with numerous other Childrens Aid Societies across the province, faced a significant deficit this past financial year. Despite one-time mitigating funding from the province, McGreevy said FACS still will face a deficit of around $900,000 up until the amalgamationset for April 1, 2011. So our hope is that the ministry will find some solution to get rid of that $900,000 and then as of April 1, the combined agency will be able to live within its means, he added. Leonard said annual savings every year going forward following the amalgamation will be an estimated $400,000. [The province] made a commitment that whatever savings we realize, we get to keepthat we cant expect any more money but were not going to lose any money, he noted. No name for the new organization has been chosen yet. The amalgamation also will mean a combined budget of $17 million$12 million from the KPCFS, $3 million in funding for the child welfare portion of FACS child welfare in Rainy River District, and $2 million for FACS integrated services (i.e., childrens mental health). An estimated 250 children will be under the care of the new organization. And once amalgamated, Leonard vowed the new organization will operate within the existing funding allocations from the government pointing to how an economy of scale will kick in with the larger organization. He also said there will be no fulltime union layoffs and no full-time management layoffs because of the amalgamation. There are a number of positions that have been affected, but weve been able to re-assign them to other places with the organization or have offered a re-assignment, Leonard explained, noting the combined staffing levels are estimated to be at 250 full-time and 100 casual workers. Leonard himself will remain as executive director, with FACS executive director Vik Nowak becoming director of service for the new organization. Changes to the back-end servicesfinance directors, executive directors, and personnel directorsare where the major savings will come from, said Leonard, stressing there will be no lessening of services or front-line staff by either agency. Because FACS is an integrated agency which provides voluntary services and childrens mental health services (unlike KPCFS), these, too, will remain in operation following the amalgamation. As we move forward, there is an understanding that FACS will continue to operate as an integrated wing of the larger organization and theres a commitment from K-P that there will be no leakage of those services to the north, said McGreevy. The government funds Fort Frances, Atikokan, and Rainy River to provide childrens mental health services to that area, and thats where those services will remain. There will be no drift upward, he stressed. As well, since KPCFS has a number of programs which FACS doesnt offer, there is the potential for these services to be extended southwards, Leonard said. Our agency entered into this discussion with some trepidation because, of course, we were in a financial deficit and we are small, admitted McGreevy. But as the plan has evolved, our staff, I think, is feeling comforted in that no front-line staff will lose their positions and the level of service will be maintained, or hopefully enhanced, he added. I think the FACS agency, as a whole, is looking forward to this process, McGreevy continued. They appreciate the fact that they will have the opportunity to be involved in designing and developing the new organization, and were keen to get started, he enthused. Going forward, the two boards and organizations have identified a number of project teams that range the gamut of all the functions of both agencies, noted Leonard. Staff from all levels of both organizations will make up those project teams, and the form of the new organization will largely be based upon the recommendations that come out of those teams. These include family services, resources, residential services for children, human resources, information technology, finance, and more. One of those work teams will be made up of board members, and their responsibility will be to develop a new governance structure that will include bylaws and representation in all manners of things related to board governance, McGreevy said. Leonard acknowledged it is possible for the proposed amalgamation to fall through if the province chooses not to pick up the costs for it. But he also pointed to the provinces Commission for the Sustainability of Child Welfares recent report that stated there needs to be a reduction in the number of Childrens Aid Societies in Ontario. Working with the ministry over the last couple of months, we feel confident that they want this to succeed, Leonard reasoned. So were hopeful that they will find whatever resolution that they need to find to help this come to fruition. As this process began, we recognized, from the FACS point of view, that we could either do this voluntarily, and retain some control over the end result, or we could resist the program but be ultimately forced to amalgamate, noted McGreevy. And we chose the former because we wanted to retain as much control over the end product as we could, he remarked.

BIA chair welcoming other ideas for old hotel

More from A1 The answer could lie in diversifying usage of the building, she added, suggesting it perhaps could be turned back into a hotel, with part of it dedicated as an arts building. All of a sudden, now you can tap into different funds, Cuthbertson explained. You can multipurpose it rather than just make it a hotel . . . theres all kinds of money out there for development. Maybe the tourist information centre could even end up in there? It could be a fun placeif theyre not getting any traffic where they are, they would probably get a lot more foot traffic if they were right downtown, she reasoned. Cuthbertson said theres so many people out there with so many great ideas that the possibilities are truly endless. Its exciting to see there are people out there that feel passionate about it, she enthused. I think its great. I am so excited to see the responses. For those in favour of the idea of a downtown park, Cuthbertson said if its possible to save the old hotel and fix it, theres no reason to scrap the first idea since a park area could be built elsewhere in the downtown core. There are several areas we could look at developing later on, she noted. Its a matter of picking a spot and then going with it. The online poll by the Fort Frances Times conducted for the week of Aug. 11-18 asked the question: Would you like to see a park where the old Rainy Lake Hotel now sits? There were 504 votes cast, with 53 percent saying yes and 47 percent saying no. One online comment read: I think it would be great to see a market square in place where the RL is now. Locals would be able to rent spots for booths to sell arts, crafts, locally-grown food, etc., as well as a place for small events. Of a differing opinion was local resident Caron Cridland, whose letter to the editor published in last weeks Times stated that tearing down the RL would be a mistake. We want Fort Frances to be a destination? Then lets give people something to see when they arrive, she wrote. A park in the middle of town is not the answer. The entire district is pretty much a park. Tearing down the Rainy Lake Hotel would be a mistake in a long line of mistakes that our town seems to make, added Cridland. Lets take the same approach as International Falls or Ranier, who have highlighted their historic buildings and managed to revitalize their downtown, she suggested.

Fort Frances Times sports reporter Dan Falloon, alongside his fellow bandmates in Johnny Riverboat, kicked off the second-annual Fort Frances Folk Festival on Sunday afternoon at the Little Beaver Cultural Centre. The Winnipegbased group was the first of many talented acts coming Peggy Revell photos from far and wide for the day.

Fort Frances Folk Festival headliner Sean Ashby rocked out to a cheering crowd as the final act for the Sunday event. With sunny skies and a cool breeze, it was perfect weather on the hillside next to the Little Beaver Cultural Centre for the day, with something for everyone to enjoy.

Smooth sailing for second year of folk festival

More from A1 Winnipeg to play alongside local favourites like the Mud Lake City Boys and Angus Jourdain Jr. The day also saw plenty of returning acts, such as Myron Hawrylak, Haphazzard, Ben Sletmoen, Lauren Gurski and Michael McCaig, and The Auditor General. Even festival co-founder Alex Marusyk, who now lives in B.C., returned to both emcee and play. Everything went right on schedulelike bang on schedule so we didnt have any issues with going later then we expected to go, noted Krag on how smoothly the day ran. I thought all the performers were excellent, she added. It was great to have some new out-of-town acts that [everyone] really, really enjoyed. For Krag, one of highlight acts was that of Thunder Bays The Alaska Army Band, who describe themselves as a psychedelic folk-rock, jam band with funk and blues overtones. The band already is planning to return to Fort Frances for a solo show at some point in the future, she said. The Alaska Army Band was awesome because they were a little bit different from everyone else, and they had a really strong, a really tight act, she remarked, adding the guys even stayed up jamming until 4 a.m. on the second stage inside the Little Beaver. Besides the main stage, the festival featured a pottery workshop, second stage, guitar workshop led by Ashby, and plenty of activities for attendees throughout the day. I think next year its going to get even better, and going to be even more well-organized, pledged Krag, noting that Hamilton and Carson Webber with the Little Beaver already are planning to take on more responsibility with next years festival. They were awesome this year, they were totally great, and I know theyre going to make lots of good things happen next year, too, she enthused. Planning for the third-annual festival most likely will get underway in the upcoming months, Krag noted. Anyone willing to commit their time for a year, and be part of the organizing committee, is welcome to get contact her at 274-9320 or via e-mail at jennifer@barnswallowphotography.com I want to thank everybody who came out and supported the festival, supported the local arts, stressed Krag. It means a lot, I know especially to the local acts, to have the community come out and support them. And well see everybody next year!

Avis to run again

More from A1 the tap turned off, the mayor warned. Its going to be falling more on municipalities, and we have to spend our dollars the best way we can, be as prudent as possible, he stressed. Mayor Avis said hes enjoyed working with the current members of council over the last four years, and wouldnt mind seeing them running for re-election in October. Our council has worked very well together, he remarked. I think that every councillor that is serving at the present time has the best interest of the community at heart. As a whole, theyre very concerned the decisions we make are in the best interest of the constituents. Mayor Avis, who also owns West End Motors, added its likely he will retire sometime in the near future, and if elected mayor for a second term will have a little more time for a position that carries a demanding schedule. Ive got some very good management people [at West End Motors], and also my sons here and Ive been gradually handing [the running of the business] over, he noted. Retirement is on the horizon. Being mayor keeps me busy, but I enjoy being busy, Mayor Avis added. Coun. Albanese, who also filed his nomination papers yesterday, cited a love for politics and the Town of Fort Frances as his reason for seeking re-election this fall. My goal is to continue the job I am doing and to listen to the people, make sure their concerns are being addressed, he remarked. There are some issues we are dealing with, and Id like to be part of that. I enjoy being on council and enjoy working with the council thats there today, added Coun. Albanese. I hope the majority of them put their name in, and we can continue what were doing. Coun. Albanese has served on council for the past five years (four years plus the final year of the last term of the late Struchan Gilson), and also served for two-consecutive terms from 1985-1991. Coun. Tibbs filed her nomination back in late March. Anyone interested in running for mayor, council, or the two local school boards must file their papers with the clerk at the Civic Centre (or their respective municipality) prior to 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 10. Withdrawal of any nominations also must be made by then. Nominees must pay a $200 fee to run for head of council (mayor) or $100 for any other position (i.e., councillor or trustee). They also must be a Canadian citizen aged 18 or older, and either be a property owner, someone who leases property, or the spouse of someone who owns/leases property. Election day will be held Oct. 25. The first day of the new council term will be Dec. 1. Municipal terms are four years after being increased from three just prior to the 2006 election.

One of the folk festivals youngest performers was 14year-old local resident Larissa DesRosiers, who belted out both covers and some of her original songs during her set Sunday. Young and old came out for the festivalboth to listen and perform on stagein its second year at the Little Beaver Cultural Centre.

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9, 2011

Printed in Canada Volume 117 Number 45

Proposed solar panels raise questions

By Duane Hicks Staff writer

INSIDE

The Town of Fort Frances is considering putting solar panels atop several buildings to generate electricity to sell back to the grid, but several members of council are voicing concerns about the proposed venture. At a budget meeting Monday afternoon, council received a report from sustainability co-ordinator Travis Rob recommending that rooftop-mounted solar panel projects be completed on the Public Works garage, Memorial Sports Centre, Childrens Complex, water treatment plant, and the Civic Cen-

tre. It would cost the town an initial $453,500 to do the five projects, after which time the solar panels are projected to generate $60,756 per year in revenueor $761,620 in revenue over the life of a 20year contract. This revenue would be realized through the feed-in tariff (FIT) program under the Ontario Green Energy Act, which guarantees specific rates for energy generation from renewable sources paid by the Ontario Power Authority (OPA). Under the microFIT program, which is for generators of less than 10 kilowatts, the town would be guaranteed 80 cents per kilowatt

hour produced through a 20-year contract with the OPA. With the life expectancy of the solar panels and related equipment estimated at 40 years, and the energy production of the panels estimated to deteriorate by about 20 percent by the end of the 20year contract, another agreement could be negotiated with the OPA to continue to generate revenue. The revenues made from selling energy collected by the solar panels could be used for energysaving retrofits, infrastructure improvements, facility upgrades, and more. The recommendations in Robs report were based on a feasibility

study conducted back in October. A company called Solar Logix conducted a study on 10 town buildings. It looked at suitable roof areas for installation, an analysis of shade-producing obstructions in the area of installations, a computer model of installations to determine projected generation capacity, and a preliminary cost breakdown. Costs and revenues were analyzed, and possible locations ranked according to annual production, initial cost, and annual revenue. Council accepted the report for consideration separate from the 2011 capital budget, but several people have serious questions about the proposed venture.

Coun. Rick Wiedenhoeft said it sounds too good to be true. I am very leery about this whole project, he remarked, noting he doesnt know how the OPA can continue to pay outover a 20year period80 cents per kilowatt hour when theyre taking in revenue of five cents a kilowatt hour. They cant maintain that, Coun. Wiedenhoeft argued. Im just very leery about this whole thing. He also said he has concerns about the danger of significant elemental damage to the panels, as well as putting the panels on top of buildings that need roof work, like the Civic Centre. Please see Solar, A5

Health fair held at FFHS

The local Voyageur Lions Club held the first-ever Healthy Futures Fair at Fort Frances High School last Thursday, with the focus being on prevention and early detection of disease.

See story on A5

School busing revisions open to input

By Peggy Revell Staff writer Updates to the Rainy River District School Boards transportation policy are on their way but whether theyre the solution parents are looking for remains up in the air. The school board moved to send proposed changes to Transportation Policy 7.1 for stakeholder consultation at last weeks meetinga step that follows vocal criticism from parents across the district over the current policys inability to accommodate such issues as child care, custody arrangements, work schedules, and emergencies. While glad to see some changes coming forth, Stratton resident Jackie McCormick said the proposed policy still doesnt address many of the issues she brought forth to trustees at the boards meeting in Decemberand urged parents and community members to get in touch with school councils and other stakeholders to voice their concerns. Im hoping that as many people as possible can get some input into the policy and hopefully we can get it clarified, said McCormick, who spearheaded and submitted a petition to the board with more than 400 names asking that its transportation policy be revisited. The deadline for stakeholder feedback is March 25. Im optimistic, said local parent Andrew Labbe, who has resorted to driving his children to and from school when he has custody of them. Under the old policy, Labbes four-day on, four-day off work schedule was deemed to be not Please see School, A5

School board, college ink deal

Confederation College and the Rainy River District School Board celebrated funding for new shop equipment, as well as the re-signing of their corporate agreement, on Monday afternoon at Fort Frances High School.

Playing cribbage
Margaret Benjamin, left, and Marvel Ricard took part in the cribbage tournament Saturday in conjunction with the 29thannual Nestor Falls winter carnival. The weekend event also included a fish derby, scavenger hunt, pancake breakfast, and much more. See B1 for the story, more photos. Heather Latter photo

See story on B1

Local reps chat with ministers

By Duane Hicks Staff writer Local delegates had their chance to speak with provincial officials on important issues during the 2011 Ontario Good Roads Association/Rural Ontario Municipal Association conference in Toronto last week. Mayor Roy Avis, Couns. John Albanese and Rick Wiedenhoeft, and Fort Frances CAO Mark McCaig attended the conference, sitting in on plenary sessions, a ministers forum, speeches by the heads of the three major parties, and delegations with various ministers or their parliamentary assistants. Mayor Avis said one meeting was with Revenue minister Sophia Aggelonitis, also the minister responsible for seniors, to get some guidance on establishing assisted living homes in Fort Frances. We were just trying to seek where the government stands on assisted living and what path we could take, the mayor noted. Should we be involved in the initiation of it, should it be the LHIN [Local Health Integration Network], should it be the DSSAB board? We went through this process with her and, of course, they dont really answer you there but they do take it under advisement, Mayor Avis added. There is no actual funding available at the present time but . . . there is some slight direction from her that we should talk to LHINs, talk to our DSSAB, talk to different areas, he remarked. The local delegates also spoke with both Northern Development, Mines and Forestry minister Michael Gravelle and MTO regional manager Ian Smith about the status of Connecting Link funding, which the town has relied on for projects like the reconstruction of Please see Local, A5

FACS merger hinges on provincial funding

By Peggy Revell Staff writer The merger between the regions childrens aid agencies is inching closer, but still hinges on provincial funding coming through to cover costs. April was set as the original date for the amalgamation between Family and Childrens Services of the Rainy River District and Kenora-Patricia Children and Family Services to occur, FACS board president Bob McGreevy noted. But the exact merger date remains up in the air pending ministry funding to cover the past deficit at FACS, as well as amalgamation costs. Part of the understanding was that when FACS merged with the Kenora agency, that the ministry would address the debt and deficit that FACS had because K-P was not willing to assume responsibility for the debt that we had, McGreevy explained. However, there is a delay because of funding, he said. That is holding things back, if you will. The move to amalgamate came after FACS, alongside dozens of Childrens Aid Societies across the province, faced deficits ranging from hundreds of thousands of dollars to millions in the 2009-10 financial year. FACS itself faced a deficit of just over $600,000 before receiving one-time mitigation funding of $430,000 from the province back in February, 2010. In an interview this past fall, McGreevy said the total estimated deficit and amalgamation costs are $900,000. As soon as [the ministry] comes up with a plan to address [these costs], were moving ahead full speed, he pledged. But until that point, were essentially getting ready, but I cant guarantee that the amalgamation Please see FACS, A5

Muskie boys OFSAA-bound

It may have seemed like the same old, same old in the NorWOSSA boys hockey loop this season as the Muskies captured yet another league title with a sweep of the Kenora Broncos in the best-of-three final.

See story on C1

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FORT FRANCES TIMES A5

FACS merger hinges on provincial funding

More from A1 will be completed by the first of April, McGreevy admitted. April marks the beginning of a fiscal year for both agencies. McGreevy stressed FACS has every confidence the ministry will fund the deficit as it had verbally committed to addressing the shortfall. Part of the problem is that were not the only agency thats amalgamating, said McGreevy, noting several agencies across the province are just beginning the process. The ministry wants to make sure that they develop a process it will apply not only to us, but to other agencies who will be going through this process over the next two-three years, so theyre being very careful to make sure theyre doing it right, he reasoned. The request from FACS and the KPCFS is still under consideration, a ministry spokesperson coonfirmed. We have committees, many committees, doing their work and harmonizing policies and procedures between the two existing agencies, and that work continues, McGreevy said. And were nearing completion of all of that work, its running pretty much on time. Really the only thing thats holding us back would be the announcement by the ministry, he stressed. The amalgamation also will mean a combined budget of $17 million$12 million from the KPCFS, $3 million in funding for the child welfare portion of FACS child welfare in Rainy River District, and $2 million for FACS integrated services (i.e., childrens mental health). Once merged, there will be an estimated annual savings of $400,000 due to economy of scale kicking in as administrative costs, which are more burdensome on smaller agencies like FACS, would be reduced. Meanwhile, the larger agency would be better able to financially care for children requiring intensive and expensive caretwo issues which contributed to FACS original deficit. An estimated 250 children will be under the care of the new organization. When the proposed amalgamation was first announced last summer, there also was the promise that the level of service will remain the same as it is now, and that no full-time union layoffs and full-time management layoffs would occur as affected positions would be re-assigned within the organization. The combined staffing levels are estimated to be at 250 fulltime and 100 casual workers. Bill Leonard of the KPCFS will remain as executive director, with FACS executive director Vik Nowak becoming director of service for the new organization.

Solar panels raise questions

More from A1 If something happens to the roof, what are we going to have to do? asked Coun. Wiedenhoeft. Remove all the panels to replace the roof, put the panels back? Ive got some serious questions about this, he reiterated. Operations and Facilities manager Doug Brown said he has a concern about high winds tearing panels from rooftops, and wants to check to see if the town is insured for that. Am I nervous? Yeah, I am nervous because weve got lots of wind and stuff and I dont want to see, if all these panels fall off, that were paying for something and were not generating any money, he noted. Thats where Im nervous. Mayor Roy Avis asked the same about hail, but Brown said hes been assured the panels are hailproof. The panels also come with a 20year warranty. Fort Frances CAO Mark McCaig also wondered about ongoing maintenance, like washing the solar panels and snow removal. But Brown replied hes been told the panels generate enough energy to melt snow, and only have to be washed about three times a year (at the start of spring, pollen season, and in the fall). Coun. Ken Perry said he has experience with solar panels. Hes put them on top of two cabins, and knows theyre durable and low maintenance. Solar panels are indestructible just about, he remarked. Theyre not going to blow off in a hurricane the way theyre put up. Theyre not going to fold up, theyre not going to bend, theyre not going to break, he stressed. Hails not going to hurt them, ice and snows not going to hurt them. I am not leery about this at all, Coun. Perry added. Coun. John Albanese asked how common solar panels are in Northwestern Ontario, to which Brown replied theyre on some homes and cabins. Meanwhile, Community Services manager George Bell said area municipalities like Dryden and Kenora are looking at them right now. Coun. Paul Ryan said he still cant believe the province can pay 80 cents per kilowatt hour, then asked, Do you build the panels and then get the agreement or do you get the agreement and then build the panels? Brown said the town has been approved to get an agreement and is in the queue to participate in the microFIT program if council decides to go ahead. But the town must proceed with the solar panels within a year or it loses the agreement. Coun. Ryan said the town must have its lawyer take a look at the agreement and its got to be airtight. He noted electricity rates are the hottest topic in Ontario, and with a provincial election coming up, a new regime could come in here in October . . . and nix this whole thing because they promised to do it during the election. Coun. Perry said everyone already is subsidizing the 80-cent payout through the global energy adjustment on their electricity bill every month. The other thing is, its going to be a 20-year contract, he argued. Youll sign in, Ontarios going to sign in with you. Theyre going to commit to 20 years at 80.2 cents and were paying for it right now. If you dont want it, youre still going to pay for it. Mayor Avis also said he doesnt know how the province can sustain the 80-cent payout, noting you cant buy lemons for 80 cents and then sell them for five cents. It doesnt make any sense now, and thats basically whats happening, but the governments into it, big time, he remarked, agreeing that a charge to help pay for it is part of everyones hydro bills right now. But Coun. Ryan said its that extra line items on hydro bills that people do not want, and thats why the whole issue is going to be doggone political when this election really fires up. I could see this going out the window, he warned. I want to be darn sure any agreement that we have, if we go ahead with this, is airtight. Mayor Avis and Coun. Andrew Hallikas also noted theres problems in Northern Ontarios hydro transmission and distribution lines. The lines that we have up here are 115 kw as opposed to down south, which are 230, and they only have a certain amount of capacity, said Coun. Hallikas. There has been instances where the lines cant take any more electricity being fed through the grid, so that is something that needs to be looked into, he warned. Whether or not the town goes ahead with the solar panel project will be discussed at future meetings, possibly along with a presentation from Solar Logix.

New look
Ashley McFarlane purchased a Blizzard from Nissa Blase at the newly-renovated Dairy Queen here last Thursday. After being closed for a few days in recent weeks to complete the renovations, the restaurant is now back open for business and ready to show off its updated look. Heather Latter photo

Inaugural health fair held at high school

By Heather Latter Staff writer The local Voyageur Lions Club held the first-ever Healthy Futures Fair at Fort Frances High School last Thursday, with the focus being on prevention and early detection of disease. Its important for students to learn about what to watch out for and how to stay healthy, stressed Carol Ewacha, a club member and retired nurse who spearheaded the event. There have been health fairs in the community before, but nothing directed solely towards the students, she noted. Ewacha said once she had the idea to go ahead with the Healthy Futures Fair, it was easy to get local health groups involved. Booths offered information on hearing (Ear Clinic Inc.), mental health (Riverside Counselling), nutrition (Valley Diabetes), vision (Lidkea Optometry), exercise (Integrity Fitness), dental health (Northwestern Health Unit), and workplace safety (NCDS). I wanted the students to think about their parents and grandparents, and learn how to prevent some of those things, explained Ewacha, adding that by getting them to think about people they know, it brings it to a personal level. For example, she said if a students family member has dentures, they could learn about ways to take care of their teeth at the Healthy Futures Fair. They seemed very interested and I think they got a lot out of it, Ewacha enthused, adding some of the booths had interactive elements, such as answering a question to get a prize or participating in a dental screening. While the booths were set up in the small gym at Fort High, the

Nicole Rogozinski, a dental hygienist with the Northwestern Health Unit, took a look at Twila Kabatays teeth during the Healthy Futures Fair at Fort Frances High School on Heather Latter photo Thursday.
event also featured three speakers who offered presentations in the Townshend Theatre. Trish Wood, with the Valley Diabetes Education Centre, spoke about nutrition and the prevention of disease, followed by Courtney Koval of Integrity Fitness, who delivered a presentation about exercise and the prevention of disease. As well, Katie Esselink, from the Northwestern Health Unit, discussed prevention and early detection of cancer. It was a good day, Ewacha remarked. I think its something we will certainly do again, although we might change a few things, such as the focus or presenters. Were just learning, since its the first time weve done this, but I think its a worthwhile event, she said.

Local reps chat with ministers

More from A1 Central Avenue but has not received in more than two years. [The Connecting Link funding] covers all the main arteries coming into Fort Francesfor tourism to the south, for truck traffic that goes through the municipality, for truck traffic that goes to the mill, Scott Street is a Connecting Link road, the mayor explained. We wanted to find out whether this program, because its been over two years now since we received any funding, is still on, he added. We do what they call a fiveyear capital forecast, and weve been doing it constantly for the last two years and were not getting anyplace. What we want to know is, is it on, it is off, are they going to call it a new programgive us some idea, Mayor Avis stressed. We, basically, didnt get any direct answer nor did they say we were going to get any funding, but we had a good conversation. Local reps also met with Gravelle and Lou Rinaldi, the parliamentary assistant to Municipal Affairs and Housing minister Rick Bartolucci, about the regional airport concept. We told them that because of the cost of operating the airport, the amount of money its costing us, the municipality, its a losing proposition for us, the mayor noted. And yet the airport is used by all district residents and First Nations people, he reasoned. We told them wed already been in contact with the district municipalities, and they were very concerned on whether the unorganized territories would be participating in the funding process in order to keep this airport open. Mayor Avis said they asked the ministries if the town and other district municipalities should expect the unorganized areas to pay for a airport they also use. Speaking more generally about the conference, the mayor said it was busy, with a bear pit session featuring 18 ministers fielding questions from the floor about everything from the regulation of wind farms to arbitration settlements. A good deal of conversation revolved around electricity in Ontario, especially the application of the HST to hydro bills and the overall cost of power and where its going. As well, the local delegates attended several plenary sessions covering various topics, such as Building a Bicycle-friendly Community? and Is Your Community Investment-Ready? (the former was attended by Coun. Wiedenhoeft, the latter by the mayor).

School busing revisions open to input

More from A1 regular enough to have his children dropped off at his home by the school bussomething he hopes will change under the proposed new policy. Im glad to see that the wheels are turning, but Ill believe it when I see it, he remarked. The proposed changes to the busing policy fall into three main areas: regular and fixed patterns, alternative addresses, and courtesy transportation. Instead of defining what a regular and fixed pattern is, the proposed policy states that when it comes to a childs schedule, Parents are encouraged to work with the board to try and adjust schedules to establish a regular and manageable weekly schedule for busing. Schedules are to be submitted to the transportation department well in advance of the start of the school year, it adds. The transportation department will work with parents and principals well in advance to try and establish a regular manageable schedule to accommodate custodial arrangements while maintaining student safety. Under the proposed new policy, the alternative address must be on the students present route, and must not result in a route extension or an additional stop. Or if another bus is required for an alternative address, this may be provided if there is room on the other bus. Three days to two weeks notice would be required for changes, except in the case of emergencies. I think that its a good thing that theyre going to allow alternative transportation, McCormick said. But instead of the three days to two weeks notice, she felt the board should set an exact time or better yet, allow requests to be made up to the time of dismissal on the day in question. Information flow from transportation office to school, and viceversa, was the reason she was given as to why this time frame was needed, McCormick noted. [But] we live in an age of pretty much instantaneous communication, that in my mind that doesnt hold much water, she reasoned. The proposed policy also defines emergency as death or severe illness with the students immediate family. I have huge issues with the emergency guidelines that theyve put forth, McCormick said. Its often not a students immediate family who is receiving a child off the bus, she reasoned, citing the example of how a baby-sitter having to be rushed to the hospital wouldnt count as an emergency in this situation. The current policyand definition of emergencyalso doesnt solve the issue if parents are called into work unexpectedly, McCormick addedsomething the boards own employeessuch as educational assistants and substitute teacherseven experience. They dont meet the three-day requirement, its not an emergency, what are they supposed to do? she wondered. An alternative of getting someone else to meet the child when theyre dropped off isnt feasible, either, for parents such as herself, McCormick explained, noting those she would ask have their own kids they have to meet at home. As well, McCormick said privacy should be respected when it comes to the nature of an emergency, and that the reason behind the emergency shouldnt have to be shared to the board. McCormick also is skeptical about safety being cited as the reason why certain changes cant be made. If they say its unsafe, we need to have some evidence, but Ive asked on several occasions and they cant provide any evidence, she remarked, stressing that numbers or written documents should be provided for these decisions. She also said more evidence is needed on the issue of bus drivers being upset if drop locations for students changebut no questionnaires, testimonials, or other evidence has been provided for this reason. Also updated as part of the proposed busing policy is courtesy transportation, with secondary school students being allowed to receive courtesy busing for employment or academic programming if the request is on an existing route, results in no additional stops or route extensions, and is accompanied with written information of employment and permission of the parent/guardian. As well, secondary students may use busing for medical appointments with two weeks notice again if there is no route extension or additional stop. The policy also saw the addition of a subsection which states that, notwithstanding the above cases, the board is not obligated to provide transportation and may refuse to do so in specific cases where the distance is deemed excessive, the cost prohibitive, or where the pickup/drop-off point is dangerous to the safety of those concerned. Since issues concerning the transportation policy were brought to the newly sworn-in trustees in December, revision of the policy has been underway by both the boards transportation and policy committees. The board also has gathered input from parents, parent councils, principals, bus operators, transportation partners, individual trustees, and the ministry, board chair Michael Lewis said during Marchs meeting. The goal is to try and provide a transportation policy that would provide safe arrival and transportation to students, and one that tries to fit as many individual needs of parents as possible, and a policy that has to be interpreted and used by many different schools, small and large, throughout the district, Lewis noted. Lewis also stressed its not possible to meet every single demand when it comes to busing. However, trustees and the transportation department have been working very closely together to try and accommodate as many individual demands as we can, he remarked.

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Wednesday, April 6, 2011

FORT FRANCES TIMES A5

Childrens aid merger given funding to proceed

By Peggy Revell Staff writer The merger between the regions Childrens Aid Societies is moving ahead now that provincial funding has been confirmed. While April 1 was the original merger deadline between KenoraPatricia Child and Family Services and Family and Childrens Services of the District of Rainy River, the process was stalled as the agencies waited for the province to officially say it would finance both FACs deficit and debt, as well as amalgamation costs. This was a requirement before Kenoras agency would agree to the amalgamation. But last week, the Ministry of Children and Youth Services officially informed both agencies that these costs will be covered, meaning the new combined agency will start out debt-free. Both agencies are excited that the end toward our new beginning is near fruition, Bill Leonard, executive director of the KPCFS and Vic Nowak, Executive director of FACS, said in a news release issued on behalf of both agencies last Friday. With this funding secured, the two agencies now can proceed with formal board motions affirming their intentions to amalgamate, then signing and submitting the required legal documents to various regulatory authorizes for approval. This process should take sixeight weeks. The new organization will be known as Kenora-Rainy River Districts Child and Family Services. Its logo, vision mission, and value statements also were unveiled last Thursdaythe culmination of months of work by amalgamation committees made up of people from both organizations. Like any good logo, the more you look at it, the more you see, FACS board president Bob McGreevy said in explaining the meaning behind the new logo. As a way to reflect the geographical reality of the organizations, the logo has a tree motif with three leaves on a branch in various shadeswith the leaves also representing people with outstretched arms and circles as their heads. The three leaves also represent the three branches of the new agency: family services, childrens services, and clinical/community services. And with such a long name, the new logo features Child and Family as the largest focus, with Kenora-Rainy River Districts/Services in smaller fonts. Meanwhile, the organizations new vision statement will be Children and families reaching their full potential, with their mission statement to be, We are dedicated to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of every child by providing effective services to children and families. The outlined values for the organization include positive attitude, relationships, integrity, diversity, and excellence. Even though the vision, mission, and values remain words on paper, theyre aspiring words but words nonetheless, Leonard said at the unveiling. So as we move forward as one organization, it will be incumbent on each of us working on within the new organization to bring life into these words, to ensure that they are a true reflection of our beliefs and that they will guide how we will provide service, he stressed. We must prove this to be so through our individual efforts, through our work with each other, and, most importantly, through our work with the children, families, and communities to whom we are ultimately accountable, Leonard added. There will be no cuts to frontline staff or services with the merger. The move to amalgamate came after FACS, along with dozens of Childrens Aid Societies across the province, faced deficits ranging from hundreds of thousands of dollars to millions in the 2009-10 financial year. FACS, itself, faced a deficit of just over $600,000 before receiving one-time mitigation funding of $430,000 from the province back in February, 2010. In an interview this past fall, McGreevy said the total estimated deficit and amalgamation costs are $900,000. The amalgamation also will mean a combined budget of $17 million$12 million from the KPCFS, $3 million in funding for the child welfare portion of FACS child welfare in Rainy River District, and $2 million for FACS integrated services (i.e., childrens mental health). Once merged, there will be an estimated annual savings of $400,000 due to economy of scale kicking in as costssuch as administrative ones, which are more burdensome on smaller agencies like FACSwould be reduced. An estimated 250 children will be under the care of the new organization. The combined staffing levels are estimated to be at 250 full-time and 100 casual workers. Leonard will remain on as executive director, with FACS executive director Nowak becoming director of service for the new organization.

Whats in a name?

Years ago, I loved gardening. I wasnt a wonderful gardener, but spent many happy hours digging in the dirt. I loved the feel of the soft, mellow soil on my bare feet. When we first moved to Kansas 40 years ago, it took a while to find out how different it is to garden in Kansas than Canada. Peas and spinach have to be planted in late February or early March, when our garden in Canada was still covered with snow. And its impossible to grow lettuce in Kansas in the middle of the summer. I also found that the northern asters and snapdragons didnt take kindly to our hot summers. Gradually, I began planting native grasses and flowers with good results. During that experimental stage, I tried all kinds of unusual things. Blueberries, which failed because our soil was too alkaline and the weather too hot. After that, I tried garden huckleberries as a substitute for blueberries, a plant from the tomato family. But no one wanted to eat them! Then I planted a few exotic plants: burdock and dandelions. Yes, I actually bought seed from a garden catalogue! I planted the burdock for nostalgia purposes. It reminded me of a time long ago, when I used to sit on the ground and play house, using the huge burdock leaves for plates. Today, when all my other experiments are long gone, these two sturdy plants still flourish. Just last week, in fact, we had a delicious salad of dandelion greens. The dandelion is a perennial plant with a long, sturdy tap root, which means you can cut it down before it flowers and the plant will come back next year with more fresh, nutritious salad greens. A serving of dandelion greens gives you iron, calcium, and potassium, as well as vitamins A, C, and K. While we only use the leaves for salads, the flowers often are used to make dandelion wine while the roots can be ground and roasted as a coffee substitute. The dandelion also has medicinal properties and traditionally was used by the native Canadians, the Chinese, and European herbalists, and it still can be bought in health stores today. Dandelion root sometimes is used for liver and gallbladder problems, and dandelion leaves are a natural diuretic. The dandelion also is used to help normalize blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, assist with urinary tract infections, and support kidney function. Of course, as with all herbs, you have to be careful about interactions if you are taking prescription medicine. With all of its nutritional and medicinal properties, I would like to know why the dandelion is seen as a pesky weed today! It makes me think of the starcrossed lovers from feuding families in Shakespeares Romeo and Juliet. Juliet lamented, Whats in a name? That which we call a rose/ By any other name would smell as sweet. Whats in a name? Capulet or Montague? Weed or vegetable? Take a few moments this spring to really look at that pesky weed before you pull it. Pick a few leaves and make a tasty salad. Then think about other names that might be limiting what you see in the world around you.

Science projects
At left, Nolin Spuzak, of J.W. Walker School, demonstrated his science project, How Hot Is Your Shot, during the regional science fair there Saturday. He and his partner, Tyler VanUden, earned top honours for their project, while fellow J.W. Walker student Hailey Beaudry, above, received an honourable mention. These students now are eligible to to attend the national competition in Toronto next month, along with Stephen Stechishen (Red Lake) who earned silver, and Taylor Whitehead (J.W. Walker) who captured bronze. Heather Latter photo

Addictions treatment centre plans moving ahead

By Heather Latter Staff writer The Atikokan Addictions Committee will move ahead with plans to build an addictions treatment centre there after results from a recently-launched survey show there is a need for one in Rainy River District. Theres a lot of work involved, but that cant stop us from moving ahead. We need to try and do this for the people that we serve, stressed Donna Kroocmo, executive director of the Rainy River District Shelter of Hope, which facilitated the needs assessment survey being funded through Justice Canada. Kroocmo said the committee will meet to review the survey findings, which also were discussed during the Shelter of Hope conference last week. Connie Terlesky, who was hired to collect the data through the survey, presented her final report at that time, which showed the need for an addictions treatment centre in the district. The biggest thing was that prescription drugs [had] surpassed alcohol, marijuana, and other illicit drugs, by far, as a problem, Terlesky noted from the data collected, citing a 65 percent misuse of

Theres a lot of work involved, but that cant stop us from moving ahead. We need to try and do this for the people that we serve. Donna Kroocmo
prescription drugs compared to 30 percent for inhalant, 36 percent for street drugs, and 46 percent for alcohol. The survey, conducted over a four-week period, also highlighted suicide and bullying as major problems locally. All organizations dealing with treatment referrals from communities across the district were invited to participate in the survey. Terlesky said more than 60 people attended the Shelter of Hope conference while a total of 113 people completed the surveya 96 percent response rate. She added plenty of people indicated they had referred others for treatment in the past, with 19 people saying they referred more than 30 people and another 34 noting they had referred one-five people. These are big numbers, Terlesky stressed. And they are all going out of town because there is nothing here. Kroocmo said given the interest from an investor willing to put forth $1.5 million to build a treatment centre in Atikokan, they need a business plancomplete with data and researchto acquire financing from the bank since this amount wont completely cover the construction cost. She noted the committee has submitted a proposal through the Community Giving Program through Green Shield Canada. Next, they will do more research into the normal rate for beds at a residential treatment facility. The private investor wants a return, so at least some of the beds have to be set aside as for-profit beds, which means they would have to pay the going rate, whatever that might be, Kroocmo explained, noting so far they have determined this could be anywhere

from $400-$800 a day. So wed have to find something in the medium range, I would think. She said they also have to consider the cost of ongoing operations. We have to have this be self-sufficient, she remarked. But Kroocmo said her hope is to have at least two of the beds as not-for-profit. Thats my dream, she noted. We just want to make this available to everyone. She said the committee also must decide the approach the treatment facility would take. They have two preferencesto serve youth and to have several beds for familycentered treatment. Twelve- to 16-year-olds are using and we know that, Kroocmo said. You dont want to see young person sent away for treatment. As well, a family-centered approach would allow family, children, or whoever is needed as a support group for the person being treated. This also would allow the facility to be more culturally-appropriate to First Nation communities, where involving family and extended family is important for treatment. In addition, Kroocmo said the treatment facility could offer an

out-patient clinic or day program. We thought that would be a really excellent way to service the people who couldnt otherwise afford a residential treatment program, she explained. And they could access the treatment they need with very little cost to the client. With additional programs, Kroocmo said the centre could be much more than just a residential treatment centre. We could do much more with it, and thats our hope and our plan, she insisted, adding they have a very active committee with community service providers from many sectors, which will be beneficial to assist with all the work ahead of them. Terlesky, meanwhile, conceded the committee is aware other groups also are trying to get a facility going. Whoever gets it first, lets just build it and get it going because a strong need is there, she stressed. Currently, the closest treatment centres include Thunder Bay and Kenora while the closest familycentered one is in Winnipeg.

DSSAB defends uploading position

Staff In response to an article in last weeks Times, the Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board said uploaded savings have been used to offset budget increases for other programs since they first began in 2008. In a press release to the Times, DSSAB administration said they have analyzed information the town received from the Ministry of Finance (which was partially printed in last weeks edition) and do not dispute it. The ministry indicates the estimated total benefit of 2011 provincial uploads for the Town of Fort Frances to be $420,400, which we do not dispute, the release said. Contrary to [Coun. Ken] Perrys statements in the article in the March 30, 2011 edition of the Fort Frances Times, the RRDSSAB has not turned a blind eye to all the verifiable facts, and we concur with the figures from the Minister of Finance. We have taken a good look at this and have not gone astray, or lead the board astray, nor has the board led us astray, it stressed. Not reflected in the provincial numbers is, since 2008, the RRDSSAB members had, by board resolution, utilized amounts from these upload savings to offset budget increases for other programs in 2008 and 2009 to lessen any increase in municipal levies, the release added. This, in turn, decreased the actual amount of the municipal upload savings for those respective years. As a result, there is a difference in the figures provided by the province and the amounts levied to municipalities by the RRDSSAB as the province is not notified of local RRDSSAB decisions on utilization of savings. The local DSSAB said it is committed to working with both the province and the municipalities on this issue as it appears further discussions are required as to how this information applies to the RRDSSAB budget. Meetings with the province and the municipalities are taking place to review this issue, they noted. All information has always been, and will continue to be, available to the DSSAB board members for review and further discussion.

Irish singer taking stage

Press release A reminder for all members of the Border Concert Association that songwriter, masterful pianist, comedian, and one of Irelands best vocalists, Cahal Dunne, will appear at Backus Auditorium in International Falls this Saturday (April 9) starting at 7:30 p.m. Dunne possesses a certain magical quality that comes from deep within a great entertainer and washes over his audiences, captivating them. His vocal style is rich and deep as he takes you on a musical journey to his homeland. Accompanying himself on the piano and with full orchestral tracks, you will be amazed at the sound coming from the stage. With an easy rapport and a great sense of humour, Dunne appeals to audiences of all ages. He is truly an entertainer extraordinaire. This will be his first mid-American tour, although Dunnes concert schedule takes him all over the country. Dunne is a native of Cork, Ireland and received a Bachelor of Music degree from University College of Cork. He has won a number of prizes in Irish song contests, including Irelands National Song Contest. His winning song, Happy Man, earned him the right to represent Ireland in the International Eurovision Music Contest in Israel. Happy Man became number one in Europe and Ireland, with record sales topping the quartermillion mark. This gave him the title that most people know him by: Irelands Happy Man. Dont miss this exceptional concertthe fifth in the 2010-11 Border Concert Association series.