Local News

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 4:27pm

Provincial Police want to speak to anyone who witnessed a car crash at the Northern Lights Credit Union in Sioux Lookout.
Sometime between 12:10pm and 12:15pm on June 7th, a red Ford Ranger truck hit a person in the parking lot.
Police say a number of people were in the area at that time.
Police say 76-year-old Al Best was taken to hospital, where he died from his injuries.
If you have any information, call Sioux Lookout OPP at 737-2020 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 4:23pm

Pikangikum and the Province plan on working together to boost the forestry sector in the Far North.
The First Nation has received a Sustainable Forest Licence for the Whitefeather Forest, 90km north of Red Lake.
The Whitefeather Forest Community Resource Management Authority will be responsible for implementing a Forest Management Plan, which addresses harvesting, building access roads, monitoring and reporting on compliance, as well as managing area trees, plants, animal life, water, air and soil.
Chief Dean Owen says he is thankful to the Elders, the Whitefeather Forest Initiative Team and the Ministry of Natural Resources staff who have worked with the community over the past years and helped them reach this milestone.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 4:18pm

The start-up of the Kenora Forest Products Mill is being delayed.
Manager Rod McKay says they had hoped to start producing studs and other wood products this summer, but says they are having some problems finding markets for their hog fuel.
He says they are going to have to send a lot of it as far as Thunder Bay, adding that they hope to see a change once the mill in Fort Frances is back online.
McKay says they didn't anticipate there would be as much red tape and obstacles, but notes the mill should be up and running by the fall.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 11:34am

The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board says schools in the Red Lake area will remain open today despite the power outage.
Officials say the Facilities department has ensured all the necessary health and safety precautions have been taken and school bus transportation will run as usual this afternoon.
Anyone with concerns or in the event of an emergency call the Dryden office toll free at 1-877-287-5430 ext. 247.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 11:30am

Thunder Lake Road in Dryden has been voted the worst road in this area.
That's according to the final results released by the Canadian Automobile Association in the Ontario Worst Roads campaign.
Spokesperson Korey Kennedy says the Dryden road didn't make the top 10, but notes it's great to see that so many people took part in the campaign.
Kennedy says the solid response from this area shows that people are concerned about the state of the roads and it shows that both levels of government need a stronger infrastructure plan.
Kennedy adds the campaign is important as 90% of the roads selected have either been fixed or are about to be improved.
Northwestern Ontario was shut out in the Toronto dominated rankings.
Dufferin Street in Toronto was selected Ontario's worst road for a second straight year.
The only northern Ontario road making the cut was Kraft Creek Road in Timmins at number 4.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 10:39am

An unexpected power outage in the Red Lake area.
Some 2,200 Hydro One customers are in the dark.
Officials say the cause of the outage is unknown at this time and note that crews are en route to investigate.
Hydro One hopes to have power restored around 4:00pm.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 10:35am

The Commissioner of the Ontario Provincial Police is defending the cost of his police service.
Speaking in Kenora, Chris Lewis admitted that municipalities are concerned about a pending 8.5% increase in officer salaries next year.
Lewis notes officers took two years without a raise.
He stresses the OPP remains a competitive alternative for a number of municipalities.
Lewis says the OPP ranks 32nd in Ontario right now in terms of the cost of providing police service.
Lewis also maintains that the OPP is one of the lowest costing police services in the province.
He notes they will continue to work with municipalities to find savings and notes other police forces are going through the same trials and tribulations right now.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 9:30am

The 'Dryden Days of Summer' are almost upon us!
That's the name of the new Summer long event in the community.
Suzanne Scherban has been spearheading the initiative with the help of a dedicated group of volunteers and she says special events will be held every Thursday starting on July 4th.
Scherban says they have received City approval to close King Street every Thursday from 3:00-7:00.
She notes the goal is to have businesses, community groups, buskers, musicians, artists and others to set-up shop outside.
Scherban is also encouraging highway businesses to get involved and do something special at their locations.
She says the purpose of the event is for everyone to come together and to help improve the mood in the community.
Some events already planned include a vintage car show on July 11th as well as aboriginal drumming and dancing on August 8th.
Other ideas include a farmers market as well as a the Dryden Fire Demonstration.
Events will also be held along the river at Cooper Park and the Riverview Lodge.
Anyone interested in taking part or anyone interested in organizing something specific is asked contact ddosevents@gmail.com
The organizing committee has come up with a logo and has established a Facebook page.
Visit "Dryden Days of Summer" for more information.
The event concludes on August 18th.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 8:32am

The Dryden Youth Centre is expected to continue operating this year thanks to outside grants and donations but it's long-term future is murky!
City funding dries up at the end of June but Rotary has committed $15,000 and another $4,000 grant application has been submitted by the Dryden Native Friendship Centre.
Community and Development Services Manager Bob Cunningham says they can keep the Centre open this year off of grant money.
Cunningham notes the Youth Centre has used $19,000 of the total $30,000 allocated for operations this year.
He notes any left over funds will go towards paying down the City deficit.
City funding for the facility is unlikely in 2014 as officials embark on an extensive operations review.
During the six month period from July 1st, to December 31st, 2012, Youth Centre operating expenditures were $26,018.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 8:20am

Debra Kincaid has been named acting Chief Administrative Officer.
Art Wellington is stepping down as interim City Manager.
Kincaid has been in the role of acting Clerk up until now.
Mayor Craig Nuttall says the search for a full-time replacement continues and says they are negotiating with two individuals.
Nuttall says he appreciates all the work Wellington has done over the past couple of months, and helping them pass the budget.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 8:14am

Talks continue between the City of Dryden and the provincial government regarding the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation and its mill assessments in northern Ontario.
Mayor Craig Nuttall says his recent trip to Toronto was a successful one, adding that the Ministry of Finance understands the city's situation.
Nuttall also had a chance to speak with the President of MPAC about the property assessments.
He says he discussed how MPAC might change the way it does business.
Nuttall says another problem is how the municipalities are going to pay back what they owe.
He believes another meeting will be held in Thunder Bay at a later date to further discuss the situation.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 8:06am

A memorial service is scheduled for this afternoon in Toronto for the two pilots and two paramedics who died late last month in an air ambulance crash in northern Ontario.
Premier Kathleen Wynne is among those who will be attending.
The Ornge helicopter had just left its base at the Moosonee airport to pick up a patient in the remote Attawapiskat First Nation when it crashed early on May 31st.
The Transportation Safety Board has stated that mechanical failure did not appear to be the cause.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 8:03am

Provincial Police in Sioux Lookout have laid charges following a theft investigation in Big Trout Lake.
OPP say the theft from the Tasona Store was reported last Friday.
Police say 40-year-old Cheryl Brenda Meekis and 25-year-old Violet Moskotaywenene each face counts of theft over $5,000 and breach of trust.
They are due in court next month.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 8:01am

A young woman from Nova Scotia has an extended stay in the Sioux Lookout area.
Provincial Police stopped a vehicle on Highway 72 on Friday for speeding.
OPP say she was clocked doing over 130 in an 80 kilometers an hour zone.
Police say the 18-year-old Halifax woman has been charged and her vehicle has been impounded for 7-days.
She's due in Sioux Lookout court on July 4th.

By CKDR News - June 18th, 2013 - 7:57am

An Atikokan man has been fined $1,700 for unlawfully hunting deer.
Court heard that Michael Fogg shot a deer with a .22-calibre rifle in the Highland Lake area, even though he didn't have a deer licence.
He's been banned from hunting in Ontario for one year.
The Ministry of Natural Resources is reminding the public that rim-fire rifles can't be used to hunt big-game animals.

By CKDR News - June 17th, 2013 - 3:07pm

A Nakina man has been fined $1,000 for stealing and keeping a red fox he took from a trapline.
Ministry of Natural Resources Conservation Officers saw trail camera images of George McKay removing the dead fox from a snare and leaving with it. McKay was living in Ear Falls at the time.
Officials say McKay wasn't licensed to trap on the trapline where he took the fox.
The MNR would like to remind the public that it's illegal to interfere with lawful trapping practices, including taking harvested animals from traps.

By CKDR News - June 17th, 2013 - 10:56am

It's now easier for Provincial Police in the Northwest to handle the high volume of calls they receive.
A new forensic identification unit has opened in Kenora.
Commissioner Chris Lewis says it will help handle the needs of the region.
Lewis says the building has the proper ventilation and safety measures to ensure safety for officers who process evidence.
He adds the facility will ensure that no evidence gets contaminated.

By CKDR News - June 17th, 2013 - 8:30am

Thunder Bay-Superior North MP Bruce Hyer is heading to Big Trout Lake First Nation today.
Hyer and 24 other Canadians from all walks of life will be living in KI for a week.
Band members want them to experience the living conditions on the remote reserve.
The individuals will be living in the community member's homes, share in their daily activities and experience their challenges.

By CKDR News - June 17th, 2013 - 8:27am

A Dryden woman is in hospital in serious condition following a single vehicle crash on Sandy Beach Road.
The vehicle left the road and went deep into the trees and bush about 100-feet from the road on Friday afternoon.
The Dryden Fire Service needed the jaws of life to rescue the woman from the badly smashed car.
Dryden Police are investigating the cause of the crash.

By CKDR News - June 17th, 2013 - 8:26am

Slate Falls First Nation, just northwest of Sioux Lookout, is mourning the loss of five community members.
Provincial Police say a vehicle was travelling north on Slate Falls Road Saturday night when it left the road and entered Brokenmouth River.
Police say the vehicle was recovered the next morning and 5-bodies were located inside.
The deceased have been identified as 55-year-old Gordon Carpenter, 26-year-old Samantha Loon, 23-year-old Kimberly Whiskeyjack, 23-year-old John Bighead and 20-year-old Claudia Loon.
The cause of the crash is unknown at this time.

By CKDR News - June 17th, 2013 - 8:24am

Now that the provincial budget has been approved, the Mayor of Dryden is looking for a quick response on its funding application for underpass upgrades.
Craig Nuttall says he believes the province is prepared to fund 80% of the upgrades.
Original estimates had the project totaling $800,000.
Nuttall believes the province understands that the upgrades are badly needed as they have seen photos and evidence of the underpass.
He stresses it has become a major safety issue and that's a number one priority for the government.

By CKDR News - June 17th, 2013 - 8:15am

Kenora MP Greg Rickford says the federal government continues to work with First Nations on the issue of policing.
There have been discussions of major changes and rollbacks within the Treaty 3 Police Service.
Rickford says the province has to jump on board and help all parties find a solution.
Rickford stresses their top priority is more stable funding for more than just one or two years.
In regards to the Treaty Three Police issue, Rickford says there will be further discussions on where their deficits have resulted from.

By CKDR News - June 17th, 2013 - 7:58am

The Sioux Lookout Meno-Ya-Win Health Center is remembering Elder Frank Beardy.
Beardy passed away Thursday at the age of 63, following a lengthy illness.
Meno-Ya-Win President and CEO Dave Murray says Beardy devoted a lot of time to helping the area.
Murray says Beardy was instrumental in the bringing everyone together to build the new hospital.
Murray notes Beardy was the hospital's Co-Chair for the past 7-years and he stepped down last year.
He stresses Beardy was very interested in governance and working together.
Beardy was also a one-time Grand Chief with the Nishnawbe-Aski Nation.

By CKDR News - June 17th, 2013 - 7:54am

The Deputy Grand Chief of the Nishnawbe-Aski Nation welcomes an Appeals Court ruling on Aboriginal jury rolls.
The court has thrown out a manslaughter conviction on the basis that not enough Aboriginals were on the jury.
Alvin Fiddler says now it's time to move forward on the issue.
Fiddler says the province must work with First Nations on finding a solution.
He stresses the ruling validates what they have been saying about the state of jury rolls in the Kenora district since 2008.

By CKDR News - June 17th, 2013 - 7:45am

Today is 'Operation Corridor' across northwestern Ontario.
Provincial Police will be paying close attention to transport drivers breaking the rules during the 24-hour safety blitz.
OPP will be looking for aggressive and distracted drivers.
Sergeant Shelly Garr says a recent survey showed 26% of truck drivers are using hand-held devices while driving.
OPP laid 400-charges last year in Ontario during 'Operation Corridor'.

By CKDR News - June 15th, 2013 - 6:14pm

A successful year for the Bob Izumi's Kids, Cops and Canadian Tire Fishing Days at the Government Dock in Dryden.
Jaden Rafer caught the heaviest fish, a 8.9 pound jackfish.
There were other prize categories such as first boy and girl, sportsmanship and smallest fish caught by a boy and girl.
The winners will get to ride in the boat parade tomorrow at the Dryden Shaw Walleye Masters.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 4:55pm

A well known aboriginal leader from the region has died.
Frank Beardy passed away Thursday evening at the age of 63, after battling a long-time illness.
Beardy is recognized for devoting his life to improving the lives of First Nations, helping in the development of such initiatives as Wawatay Native Communications Society, Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 3:59pm

It's home time for about 30 people from Attawapiskat First Nation.
They were flown back today after residing in Fort Frances due to flooding in their community.
Emergency officials are now looking honouring a request by the remaining thirty to relocate to towns closer to their community where family and friends may be.
The residents have been living out of a local hotel since May 11th.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 3:55pm

The family of Ed Wilson will have to wait another two weeks before Kenneth Ivall is formally sentenced.
Ivall was found guilty in February of second degree murder in the death of Ed Wilson.
Wilson was found dead behind the Tower Motel in Kenora in March 2009.
A sentencing hearing was held Friday morning at the Kenora Court House with the crown and Ivall's defense lawyer taking part.
A second degree murder conviction automatically comes with a sentence of life in prison, with no chance for parole for at least 16-years.
Justice Terrance Plantana will have to decide if he will extend Ivall's first chance of parole beyond 16-years.
Plantana is expected to hand down his ruling on June 28th.
Crown Attorney Mary-Anne Mousseau says Ivall was a prolific criminal, with a long list of assault, domestic assault and drug trafficking charges against him.
Although he has already been convicted for the murder of Ed Wilson, Ivall has maintained his innocence.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 1:40pm

A Nova Scotia judge has sentenced a
48-year-old man who kidnapped, confined and sexually assaulted a teenage boy last fall to 11 years in prison.
David James LeBlanc was arrested in Northern Ontario and pleaded guilty last month to kidnapping a 16-year-old boy and holding him against his will in a cabin for days last September.
During LeBlanc's sentencing hearing today, the boy's mother told the Nova Scotia Supreme Court in Bridgewater that her son has been traumatized since the horrific incident.
She read two victim impact statements today, one from her and one on behalf of her son.
She said she feels like LeBlanc robbed her of her son, saying her boy has been scarred both physically and emotionally.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 12:02pm

The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board is out with their new 5-year strategic plan.
Incoming Director of Education Sean Monteith says one of their main priorities is the needs of the "whole" child, with an emphasis on what student achievement is.
Monteith says they are an organization that is about learning for all, as well as putting students first.
Monteith adds the plan focuses on creating success, reaching out to at risk students and bringing 21st century learning into all classrooms.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 11:58am

Thunder Bay-Superior North Independent MP Bruce Hyer is releasing a report on restoring Via Rail service to the North Shore area.
Hyer commissioned the 90 page report and is hoping to get the Federal government's attention.
He says majority of developed countries in the world are investing in passenger rail, with the exception of Canada.
Hyer adds Canada is going in the opposite direction and pretty much eliminating it.
Hyer feels Via Rail service is feasible in the Northwest, and is environmentally friendly.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 11:53am

The perks of Northwestern Ontario have reached the Provincial Legislature.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell took a few moments to talk about the endless amount activities that are happening here right at home.
She talked about the float planes in Red Lake, bannock bake off in Sioux Lookout, Trout Music Festival in Ear Falls, Moosefest in Dryden and White Otter Days in Ignace.
Campbell says thousands of people from all over come to the region to experience the Northern life, and encouraged fellow MPP's to do the same.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 11:51am

Local police are teaming up with Dryden students to support the Special Olympics.
Provincial Police Constable Erin Huckell says the "Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run" is happening June 17th
Huckell and Constable Kevin Hildebrand with the Dryden Police will be visiting all elementary schools in Dryden and Lillian Berg School in Vermilion Bay.
Huckell says they will be taking the kids out and running around the school with them.
Roughly 1,200 students will be participating.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 11:47am

A convicted killer has won his bid to have his manslaughter finding tossed out on the basis that aboriginals were systematically excluded from Ontario jury rolls.
The Ontario Court of Appeal found the absence of aboriginal
jurors violated Clifford Kokopenace's constitutional rights.
The court ruled that the province had long known of the problem of aboriginal under-representation on juries but did little to address the issue.
The court ordered a new trial for Kokopenace, who was convicted in 2008 of stabbing a friend to death on the Grassy Narrows reserve in northwestern Ontario.
The jury had no aboriginals on the panel.
The Appeal Court had already upheld the manslaughter conviction as reasonable, but put the ruling on hold pending the outcome of the constitutional fight.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 8:32am

Ontario's Premier says municipal concerns about policing costs in the northwest are at the top of her agenda.
Speaking with our sister station CFOB News in Fort Frances, Kathleen Wynne stated a new committee is looking at how to contain costs.
Wynne says provincial officials will engage with the Ontario Provincial Police, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Ontario Association of Police Services Board.
No time frame has been given as to when the team will bring forward recommendations.
The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association is accepting a resolution from Fort Frances Council calling on the province to provide more financial support.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 8:09am

A sentencing hearing will be held today in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia for a man who was arrested in northern Ontario.
48-year-old David James LeBlanc was convicted in the confinement and sexual assault of a 16-year-old boy.
LeBlanc pleaded guilty last month to kidnapping, forcible confinement, sexual assault, uttering threats and breach of
conditions.
After the victim escaped last September, LeBlanc was arrested on a remote logging road near Geraldton.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 7:34am

The Friday line-up for Harbourfest in Kenora has been announced.
The show will feature the classic rock band Sweet as well as Kenny Shields and Streetheart.
Director of Entertainment Dave Blake says the headliner will be Bachman and Turner.
They performed at Harbourfest last year.
Blake admits it was a real challenge to book the acts this year.
The annual Summer festival runs August 2-4.

Here is a list of long weekend entertainment
Saturday: Fabour Drive and Theory of a Deadman
Sunday: Honeymoon Suite, Starship featuring Mickey Thomas and REO Speedwagon.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 6:57am

The Relay for Life continues in northwestern Ontario.
Events are being held in Ear Falls, Kenora and Thunder Bay overnight tonight.
The Ear Falls event starts at 7 o'clock at the Elementary school.
All proceeds go to the Canadian Cancer Society.
$174,000 has already been raised from events in Sioux Lookout and Red Lake.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 6:55am

A fixture in the development of Red Lake is calling it quits.
Chief Administrative Officer Brian Anderson retires today after 38-years on the job.
Anderson says the municipality has come a long way, especially in the last 10-years.
Anderson points to upgrades at the Arena and Centennial Park as well as numerous road improvements.
He says the growth of the municipality has been incredible and stresses the future looks bright for Red Lake.
He notes the growth rate will be fast with the Rubicon and Cochenour mines set to come on-line in the next two years.
Anderson adds he'll miss working with staff and council the most.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 6:47am

Premier Kathleen Wynne is reacting to news that Cliffs Natural Resources has suspended operations at the Ring of Fire in northern Ontario.
Wynne says she doesn't see the move as a pressure tactic to get the environmental process moving faster.
She says the move is natural and notes it's a complicated project.
Wynne most of the work is engaging impacted communities and First Nations.
She is pledging to work with Cliff's to iron out any concerns.
Meantime, a Sudbury city councillor is putting out a challenge to the provincial and federal governments to grant the necessary approvals to get the Ring of Fire project back on track.
Dave Kilgour notes that when car plants in southern Ontario have threatened to close, speedy government action is never
an issue, so why can't the same happen in northern Ontario.

By CKDR News - June 14th, 2013 - 6:43am

Provincial Police are reminding folks to keep an eye on their personal belongings.
Police are investigating the theft of a cell phone at Town Beach in Sioux Lookout.
The owner of the phone had put it down, and came back to find it gone.
Police say the victim did see a man in the area at the time.
Anyone with information is asked to call OPP or Crime Stoppers.

By CKDR News - June 13th, 2013 - 4:08pm

Helping aboriginal people get off welfare.
That's the focus of a new plan being pushed Federal Aboriginal Affairs Minister Bernard Valcourt, who has announced $241 million in funding for the program.
Kenora MP Greg Rickford says the money will help aboriginal youth achieve the same job opportunities as other Canadians.
He says it ties specific skills for those 18-24 years old to training that actually leads to a job.
Rickford adds it has the flexibility to focus on smaller industries.
He notes they to provide opportunities for young aboriginals to break the cycle and put them in a good position for jobs.

By CKDR News - June 13th, 2013 - 4:03pm

A 52-year-old Sioux Lookout man has been charged with sexual assault.
Provincial Police say the incident happened at a local home last month.

By CKDR News - June 13th, 2013 - 3:09pm

Provincial Police have charged a Sioux Lookout man after he was found to be in violation of his bail conditions.
While on patrol Wednesday night, officers saw a man who appeared to be drunk on Wellington Street.
Police say 22-year-old Silas Rae has been charged with two counts of failing to comply with a recognizance.

By CKDR News - June 13th, 2013 - 12:46pm

A Dryden woman has been defrauded through Facebook.
Dryden Police say the woman contacted them, saying someone hacked into her relative's account and told her she won $250,000.
The victim was told to send a money order for $700 to a man in Washington in order to receive the prize.
Trusting the source of the message, the woman is now trying to cancel her order and get her money back.
Police say a good rule of thumb is that if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

By CKDR News - June 13th, 2013 - 12:19pm

A 25-year-old man is facing charges following a theft at a Sioux Lookout business.
Provincial Police were called to the Rexall Pharmacy yesterday.
As a result, police say Anton Turtle is charged with theft under $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime.

By CKDR News - June 13th, 2013 - 11:43am

Provincial Police have located 26-year-old Jade Kolba in Kenora.
She was reported last seen Wednesday morning near the Main Street Dock.
Police would like to thank the public for helping to locate her.

By CKDR News - June 13th, 2013 - 9:51am

Cliffs Natural Resources says it still plans to stay on the Ring of Fire chromite project in northern Ontario.
Spokesperson Bill Boor says the company decision to put the project on hold is necessary because of government and court delays in the environmental assessment process.
Boor can't say if the move will end up delaying the start up of the mine.
Boor notes the current schedule is up in the air as several issues need to be resolved.
He's hoping for a quick fix.

By CKDR News - June 13th, 2013 - 9:30am

The provincial government has a tentative deal with the union representing elementary teachers.
Officials say the agreement is similar to the one signed in April with the Ontario Secondary School Teachers's Federation.
The contract would provide employees with 11-sick days at 100% pay, with an additional 120-days at 90% pay.
It also provides 100% pay for eight weeks of maternity leave.
However, there's no confirmation the teachers will see their pay frozen for two years as the government was hoping, in order to help eliminate the deficit.
A government release says the elementary teachers will also get an enhanced retirement gratuity payout similar to one given to the Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation.
The deal also includes a clause to eliminate the pay difference between English public elementary teachers and their counterparts in the Catholic and French public schools.
Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario members have until June 23rd to ratify the agreement in principle.
A period of local bargaining would begin immediately after.

By CKDR News - June 13th, 2013 - 7:17am

Confederation College says it's too late to move its float plane training program.
The College set up operations at Eva Lake, east of Atikokan, drawing the ire of area cottagers.
College spokesperson Sue Prodaniuk says they understand the cottagers concerns, but the program has to stay where it is for this season.
She says the issue will be revisited at the end of summer.
Cottagers in the area feel they weren't properly consulted by the College.

By CKDR News - June 13th, 2013 - 7:16am

Fort Frances wants the province to help small municipalities struggling to pay for policing.
In a resolution heading to the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association for support, the town points to economic and financial challenges.
Councillor Andrew Hallikas says for some communities the burden is unbearable.
Hallikas calls the current funding formula is inadequate.
Hallikas stresses northern communities are getting hit hard with sky high policing and fire costs.
He's also concerned what the financial impact will be when OPP officers receive an 8.5% wage increase next year.

By CKDR News - June 13th, 2013 - 6:47am

The City of Dryden is celebrating "Ontario Tourism Week" today.
An open house is being held at the Visitor Information Centre on Highway 17 from 10 until 5:30.
Officials will be promoting the area and the services available at the Centre.
Marketing Coordinator Dana Soucie says Dryden has lots to offer both visitors and residents alike.
More information is available by visiting the Centre or calling 1-807-223-2174 or toll-free 1-800-667-0935.
You can also email tourism@dryden.ca as well as visit www.gonwo.ca
Soucie will also be promoting "Moosefest".
Dryden's annual summer festival is entering its final year on June 28th to July 7th.
Additional information is available by visiting www.MooseFest.ca

By CKDR News - June 13th, 2013 - 6:41am

The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board is predicting a drop in student numbers next year.
The Board is out with enrollment projections for next school year
The public board estimates that overall student numbers will fall by about 100.
The largest decline will be felt at the secondary level, where enrollment is forecast to drop by 86 students next year.
Elementary numbers are expected to drop by just 20 students.
Director of Education Sean Monteith says there is some good news.
Monteith says incoming kindergarten numbers are so big, they will be replacing the outgoing grade 12 numbers.

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 4:32pm

There's no word yet on the local impact on Sobeys planned purchase of the Canadian assets of Safeway.
The parent company of Sobeys, Nova Scotia-based Empire Company, plans to acquire fellow grocer Canada Safeway for $5.8-billion cash.
Empire says the deal to buy Safeway's 213 Canadian stores and other assets will boost its presence in Western Canada.
It hasn't decided yet if the Safeway stores will keep the Safeway name.

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 3:30pm

Local spokesperson with the Public Service Alliance of Canada Judith Monteith-Farrell says the service's employer has announced a massive rollback in salaries, benefits, and hours.
She says originally they announced one level of cuts, but this time it's another step backwards and any increases they received in the last agreement are negated.
In addition, there has been talk their benefits will fall under a different rate, and hours will be cut.
The employer signed a contract in December 2012, and Monteith-Farrell says there was no indication this would happen.
However, now the service seeing huge deficits in areas where the members have no control.
A budget reduction strategy meeting was held today in Kenora.
Meanwhile, First Nation chiefs who are policed by the Police Service will meet on June 17th to discuss how to proceed.

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 3:22pm

The NDP Northern Development and Mines Critic believes the government is mismanaging the Ring of Fire.
Michael Mantha says the announcement by Cliffs Natural Resources that they are suspending their environmental assessment paints a clear picture of how the Wynne government is handling this project.
He says if they're going to start something of this magnitude, it should have been started with proper consultation and meaningful discussions with communities and First Nations that will be affected.
He adds a lot of communities near the Ring of Fire were looking forward to the economic development, but now that's being put on hold.
Mantha goes on to say Premier Kathleen Wynne seems more focused on the gas plant scandal in southern Ontario then the Ring of Fire, and that the government needs to stand up and show some leadership.

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 3:09pm

Provincial Police and Big Trout Lake Police have charged a Big Trout Lake woman following a theft.
Police say on April 19th, a large amount of money was shipped to the community and when the recipient opened the package, some of the money was missing.
As a result, police say 21-year-old Kaitlyn Sakakeep is charged with one count of theft under $5,000 and one count of breach of trust.
She is expected to appear in court on July 11th.

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 2:57pm

It's graduation day for a students at the Red Lake campus of Confederation College.
They were enrolled in the Native Child and Family Services, Personal Support Worker and Pre Health Sciences programs.
These graduates join over 1350 across Northwestern Ontario who have received their diplomas and degrees from the college.
President Jim Madder says he is very proud of the students and they should be of their personal success.

Here is a list of 2013 Red Lake grads
Kayla Sundstrom - ECE
Donna June Land - ECE
Tammy Delorme - NCFS
Leanne Maltais - pre-health

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 10:13am

It could take several weeks to make a decision on who will be able to legally take part in an inquest into the deaths of seven aboriginal youth in Thunder Bay.
North Region Coroner Dr. Michael Wilson says his boss Dr. David Eden will be reviewing each party's reasons for wanting to be involved in the process.
Wilson notes each submission will be carefully looked at.
Wilson notes interested party's must demonstrate that they have a direct interest in the outcome of the inquest.
The hearing to see who will take part wrapped up yesterday.

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 10:10am

Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell says the passing of the provincial budget is good news for hardworking families across northern Ontario.
Campbell joined her fellow NDP colleagues in supporting the Liberals yesterday.
One thing Campbell is excited about is the appointment of a accountability officer.
She says whether it's the Liberals, Progressive Conservatives or NDP, the officer will have access to resources and make sure there's no spending mishaps ever again.
Campbell also pointed to the 15% cut in auto insurance premiums and addressing home health care concerns.
She says feedback from her constituents made it clear they favoured negotiation and compromise over a costly election.

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 10:09am

The Minister responsible for mining isn't overly concerned that Cliffs Natural Resources is temporarily suspending its environmental assessment activities in the Ring of Fire in northern Ontario.
Michael Gravelle says these sort of challenges aren't unusual in a major project like this one.
Gravelle says Cliffs has made it clear that they are fully committed to the project.
He notes the Ministry of Environment is reviewing the terms of reference for the environmental assessment.
Gravelle stresses the government will continue to work with the mining company.
The mining company says delays and uncertainty of land rights forced them to suspend their environmental assessments.

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 8:55am

Former premier Dalton McGuinty has formally announced he is resigning as the member of provincial parliament for
Ottawa South.
McGuinty says Tuesday's ending of the legislative session is an opportune time for him ``to bring to a close'' his service to the people in his riding after nearly 23 years.
In a written statement, McGuinty says he will tender his
resignation today to the Speaker of the legislature.
Just last month, the former premier had said he would stay as an MPP until the next general election.
McGuinty is leaving with the costly gas plant scandal tainting his legacy, and amid fresh allegations top Liberal staff in his office wiped out email accounts to try to cover up the costs of cancelling the energy projects.
In the statement, McGuinty says he is proud to have been
Ontario's first premier from Ottawa, and leaves politics with his ``idealism intact, and a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have served in public life.''

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 8:34am

Cliffs Natural Resources is suspending its environmental assessment activities on the major Ring of Fire chromite project in northern Ontario.
The mining company says there are several reasons for the decision, including delays and uncertainty about government
environmental assessments.
Among other things, it says a judicial challenge by a number of First Nations communities has created uncertainty in the federal environmental assessment.
At the provincial level, it says there's been a delay in approving the terms of reference for Ontario's environmental assessment process.
It also cites unfinished agreements with Ontario government and unresolved issues with land surface rights.
Senior vice-president Bill Boor says the company is talking to the provincial government and First Nations from the area in the hopes of eventually restarting the environmental assessment.
Both the federal and provincial governments have high hopes for billions of dollars of investment in the Ring of Fire, development they hope will bring prosperity to struggling First Nations and royalties to their own coffers.

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 8:30am

The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board has approved the 2013-2014 budget.
The fiscal document shows a surplus of over $6,000.
Superintendent of Business Dean Carrie says the money will support teaching positions, professional development and supply teachers.
Total spending will be about $83.5-million, down about $1.7-million from this year.
Carrie says the budget also includes payment of loans of $15-million.
The loans were for previous capital projects.
Carrie says they will be borrowing roughly $893,000 from reserves this year to do work at Dryden High School, Red Lake High School as well as Lakewood and Beaver Brae School's in Kenora.

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 8:20am

City restructuring has added extra pressure on the Dryden Fire Service.
The Deputy Fire Chief is now in charge of city-wide health and safety duties.
Fire Chief Ken Kurz says they can't continue to monitor health and safety in the near future.
Kurz says the Deputy Fire Chief is already faced with a huge workload.
A report to Council indicates that meeting legal obligations of both positions for training, policy procedure development and emergency response is doubtful in the long term.

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 7:43am

Ontarians won't hit the polls this summer.
The Provincial Government's budget is in the clear after the NDP kept their promise and voted to support it.
Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle says it's a relief and stresses no one wanted an election.
Gravelle says his party was able to work with the NDP.
Gravelle notes the budget is a good one for northern Ontario.
The Thunder Bay-Superior North MPP specifically mentioned the re-commitment of $100-million for the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund.
Gravelle also points to an increase in the Ontario Child Benefit maximum payment by up to $210 over the next two-years.
The budget passed by a vote of 64 to 36 yesterday.

By CKDR News - June 12th, 2013 - 7:29am

The Progressive Conservative candidate for Kenora-Rainy River is disappointed with the NDP's decision to support the Liberal budget.
Randy Nickle says with everything that has gone over the past couple of months, it seems funny that the NDP decided to sit back and accept it.
Nickle says the budget overlooks northern Ontario once again.
He notes there is some money for infrastructure upgrades but stresses it's nothing special.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 5:16pm

An 80-year-old man is facing a charge of careless driving following a fatal two-vehicle crash in Ignace last December.
Provincial Police say Albert Pautsch from Hawkstone, Ontario was driving the F350 Ford that hit and killed 32-year-old Blake Cheslock of Thunder Bay.
Police say Pautsch will appear in court on July 10th.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 4:19pm

The Nishnawbe Aski Nation says it's critical that it receive permission to take part in a Thunder Bay inquest into the deaths of seven NAN students.
Grand Chief Harvey Yesno says NAN's participation is critical.
He says they are often called because of their advocacy role for First Nations.
NAN represents 49-First Nation communities and Yesno says they must play a part.
The Thunder Bay Police Services Board, the families of the deceased and the City of Thunder Bay also want to take part.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 4:05pm

Ontario's New Democrats kept their promise and voted to
support the minority Liberal government's budget, averting a summer election.
The budget passed by a vote of 64 to 36 in a major achievement for rookie Premier Kathleen Wynne, who took over as leader of the Liberal party from Dalton McGuinty in February.
Wynne says she kept her pledge to try to make the minority
parliament work by introducing a budget that improves lives for Ontarians.
NDP Leader Andrea Horwath says her party felt it was important to work with the Liberals to get changes in the budget rather than washing their hands of the issue like the Progressive Conservatives did.
Horwath says the budget contains several NDP ideas, including a youth jobs program, increased welfare rates, more money for home care services and the creation of a new Financial Accountability Officer.
Opposition Leader Tim Hudak lashed out at the NDP for propping up what he says is a corrupt government that tried to hide the cost of cancelling gas plants in Oakville and Mississauga, now an estimated $585 million.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 2:39pm

Some words of encouragement from the president of Confederation College.
Jim Madder congratulated the 2013 graduates from the Dryden Campus.
Madder says it's great day to be proud of the accomplishments of the students, but also the staff and faculty for supporting their success.
About 40-people accepted their diplomas and certificates this afternoon at the Center.

The graduates include.

Aboriginal Canadian Relations and Native Child and Family Studies: Lee Chartrand

Business-Human Resources: Roy Douglas, Charlee Gamble, Ashley Jacklin, S. Tyler Johnson, Jasmin Marion, Lawrence Sagutch

Office Administration-General: Martina Bushey, Kristina Danielson, Nicole Fradsham, Rebecca Haney, Nicole Kohut

Early Childhood Education: Valerie-Ann Belvin, Mary Bushey, Deena Danielson, Emma Derosier, Carleen Ewen, Brittany Norris

Personal Support Worker: Mary Ambridge, Annie Augustine, Nicole Gouliquer, Erin Johns, Marlene Leclerc, Jessica Palker, Melanie Robertson, Kerrie St. Pierre

Practical Nursing: Nicole Anderson, Marianne Gamble, Elizabeth Gould, Carolyn Hill, Lexie Lavers, Emma Tilley

Pre-Health Sciences: Melissa Felske, Sheena Harrison, Jennifed Hutchinson, Emma-Lee Notte


Graduation ceremonies will also take place tomorrow in Red Lake.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 11:32am

Bob Izumi's Kids, Cops and Canadian Tire Fishing Days tournament is now full.
Dryden Police Constable Kevin Hildebrand says they capped the number at 50-kids this year.
The event gets underway Saturday from noon until 2pm at the Government Dock.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 9:51am

Dryden Police won't be offering its student patrol program this summer.
The initiative has fallen victim to city budget cuts.
The Police Service has traditionally hired two students for the summer season.
The program was partly funded by the province, but funding has been scaled back considerably over the years.
Chief Rob Davis is hoping to bring back the program next year.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 9:33am

Cottagers at Eva Lake near Atikokan are fuming and it's Confederation College they are angry at.
They say since the College moved its float plane training program from Lake Shabandowan it's been nothing but take offs and landings over an over again on their lake.
They counted 40 in one day.
Cottagers say it's making it extremely hard to use or enjoy the lake.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 8:56am

The Dryden Development Corporation continues work on luring more businesses to the community.
Chair Ernie Remillard says in order for that to happen, Council must complete the Norwill Industrial Park within the next 10-months.
Remillard says a potential investor has expressed an interest in developing property in the park starting this Fall.
Remillard adds they have had four inquiries to set-up shop and two are in the process of land sale negotiation with the City Clerk's office.
He notes the DDC has also been working with 3-entrepreneurs who are interested in starting up a business.
Remillard addressed Council last night stating certain incentives would be beneficial for potential investors.
He's calling for the creation of a community improvement plan.
Remillard also stated that the DDC has been in talks with Alex Wilson Coldstream to revamp the two large yellow information signs at the east and west entries.
He says there's a chance for a strong partnership between the City and private sector.
Remillard notes they are still awaiting a written proposal.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 8:47am

The Ministry of Natural Resources is keeping a close eye on mother nature.
The MNR says the wet weather has reduced the fire hazard in the southern portion of the region, but lightning strikes are posing problems.
There are 24-active forest fires in the district.
The Northwest region has been charred by 139 forest fires so far this season.
To date over 3,800 hectares of forest has burned.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 8:46am

An inquest into the deaths of seven Aboriginal youth in Thunder Bay takes a major step forward today.
Coroner Dr. Michael Wilson is holding a hearing to listen to those people who believe they have a right to take part in the process.
Wilson says only those who have a direct or substantial interest in the outcome will be able to participate.
The hearing begins at 9 o'clock.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 8:39am

Dryden Police have charged a local woman after she returned to the scene of a crime.
Police say a disturbance broke out at a local residence, but the accused had left.
While officers were searching for her, she decided to come back to the home and another assault happened.
Police say they arrested 23-year-old Carolyn Stratton Saturday afternoon, and she has been charged with two counts of assault.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 8:36am

Dryden Police are looking for the person(s) responsible for vandalizing a number of vehicles over the weekend.
An SUV parked at Walmart was scratched, resulting in $2,300 in repairs.
Police believe it happened between 8:30 and 8:50 Friday night.
Meanwhile, a truck was damaged while parked at the Comfort Inn that same night.
Police say someone crushed the box cover and kicked out two rear spotlights.
Police also received a call about a vehicle parked at the Flying Club that was damaged while the owner was kayaking.
It was scratched along the driver's side, deep enough to expose bare metal.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dryden Police or Crime Stoppers.

By CKDR News - June 11th, 2013 - 8:16am

A shining moment for a Dryden High School student.
Thomas Cooper is back home from Vancouver where he finished second in the Skills Competence Canada competition.
Cooper was the second best high school carpentry student in the country.

By CKDR News - June 10th, 2013 - 4:07pm

A Northwestern Ontario organization is raising concerns about flying lanterns in the region.
Susan McLeod is the Executive Director with the Lake of the Woods District Property Owners Association, and says they are a serious risk because people can't control them.
McLeod says the newest version stays in the air for 20-minutes and it's hard to tell how far they can travel.
McLeod adds she has photos where the lanterns have landed beside cottages and burned the side of the building.
The association is working with a number of other groups to try and limit the sale of them.

By CKDR News - June 10th, 2013 - 3:30pm

There's lots up for grabs at this weekend's Bob Izumi's Kids, Cops and Canadian Tire Fishing Days tournament.
Dryden Police Constable Kevin Hildebrand says there's over $1,000 in prizes. They include a Sea Doo Dolphin Scooter, a motorized inflatable Aqua-Mate, a Polaroid digital camera and iPhone/iPad docking station, a Colby Kyros tablet, an EZ ski trainer, a camping set, an Airwalk 38'' long board and a Razor Ripstik. Hildebrand says all of the prizes were donated by Canadian Tire.
The event runs Saturday from noon until 2pm at the Government Dock.

By CKDR News - June 10th, 2013 - 3:20pm

It's almost time to open the doors at the Second Chance Pet Network's new location on Wilson Road.
Spokesperson Rebecca Tibbs says they are in the final stages of construction on the residential part for the caretaker.
Tibbs says the rest of the work will be complete this summer, which is when they hope to move in. The original plan was to have it open by this spring, but Tibbs says that was delayed due to the late arrival of spring and they had some trouble finding some of the kennel doors they wanted. When drafting the plan, Tibbs says they estimated it would cost about $250,000 and so far they are keeping very close to it.

By CKDR News - June 10th, 2013 - 3:09pm

Following a boating death in Northwestern Ontario, Provincial Police are reminding the public to be careful when out on the water.
Police responded to a call on Manion Lake in the Thunder Bay District, and learned that three men from Minnesota were thrown off their boat.
Police say it's not known what caused them to be thrown out.
Another group of fishermen saw the boat in the water with no people in it and went over to see what happened.
They saw the three men in the water, and they were taken to shore.
However, police say 64-year-old Douglas Davis was pronounced dead.
Police continue their investigation.

By CKDR News - June 10th, 2013 - 10:42am

The Dryden Ball Diamonds Committee is close to finishing its fundraising campaign for the "Light the Ball" diamonds campaign.
Angie Berrey and Chris Stoiber were guests on the CKDR morning show today and Berry notes a majority of the money has come from volunteers and fundraising.
Berrey says the facility and the total project is over a million dollars.
She stresses the City has invested less than $200,000 on the project.
Berrey says they are $5,000 away from their fundraising goal.

By CKDR News - June 10th, 2013 - 10:37am

A tragic weekend in the Thunder Bay area.
Provincial Police are reporting the drowning death of a 76-year-old man at Cummins Lake.
OPP say Ernest Rumpel went out in his canoe with his German Shepard Saturday afternoon.
It's believed the dog rocked the canoe capsizing it, knocking Rumpel out of the boat.
He was not wearing his life jacket and was pronounced dead at the hospital.

By CKDR News - June 10th, 2013 - 9:53am

It was a busy weekend for Ministry of Natural Resources fire crews.
28-new forest fires were reported over the weekend in northwestern Ontario.
Most of the fires were in the Sioux Lookout, Nipigon and Thunder Bay districts.
An aggressive air attack with water bombers was needed on most of the fires.
The Ministry of Natural Resources is paying close attention to a lightning-caused fire about 35-kilometres east of Summer Beaver.
The blaze is 1,500 hectares and is burning near several cabins in the area.

By CKDR News - June 10th, 2013 - 9:52am

Another successful Relay for Life in Red Lake.
Over $123,000 was raised at the Canadian Cancer Society fundraiser Friday and Saturday.
The next Relay for Life is in Ear Falls this weekend.

By CKDR News - June 10th, 2013 - 9:51am

Hydro One has scheduled a power outage for the Red Lake area.
It's happening on June 23rd from 10:00am until 2:00pm.
About 733-customers will be affected.
Crews will be performing maintenance and upgrades to equipment.

By CKDR News - June 10th, 2013 - 9:50am

New Gold says it's committed to continuing the work started by Rainy River Resources in the development of a new gold mine north of Barwick.
The Vancouver-based mining company has announced it will be taking control of Rainy River in a friendly take-over bid.
President Bob Gallagher says they intend to do a thorough review of the project, but have no plans to shelve it.
Gallagher says one of the first jobs is to get to know the area and its people.
He notes they also intend to honour the agreements Rainy River Resources signed with area First Nations.
Gallagher says they'd being eyeing Rainy River Resources for almost two years before putting forward a bid for the company.

By CKDR News - June 7th, 2013 - 3:55pm

A local mans dedication to the Dryden Mission has paid off in the form of a $500 donation.
Glen Hallett is a retired CN Rail employee, and has spent 900-hours volunteering at the not-for-profit organization.
Hallett says CN provides grants which recognize a former employee who has gone out and done volunteer work in the community.
Executive Director of the Mission Jim Shearer says he applauds Hallett for all the hard work he has put in since last fall.

By CKDR News - June 7th, 2013 - 12:44pm

A television series with a northern Ontario flare makes its debut on TV Ontario Sunday.
It's called Hard Rock Medical.
Actress Tamara Duarte plays a first year med student and she feels it's a good portrayal of the medical challenges facing the north.
Duarte says it also covers a wide array of topics such as the characters personal lives and relationships.

By CKDR News - June 7th, 2013 - 12:40pm

A program that's received positive feedback in the region is being offered once again.
Confederation College and Lakehead University are extending their Bachelor of Science Nursing program through the college's regional campuses.
Corrine Gallagher is one of the instructors and says there is great demand for these positions.
She says hospitals are very clear at advocating they want more nurses, and says that if students are educated in our community, they're more likely to stay in Northwestern Ontario.
Gallagher adds putting this out now gives students lots of time to prepare.
An information session is being held on June 13 from 3:30 to 5pm at the College's campuses in Dryden and Sioux Lookout.

By CKDR News - June 7th, 2013 - 12:31pm

A new Advisory Board for the area's border waters is looking for some bodies.
The new International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Board is seeking nominations for its Industry Advisory Group.
The Group will allow industry on both sides of the border to provide input into the Board's activities related to water management and water quality.
Interested individuals must apply by the end of this month.
For more information visit www.ijc.org

By CKDR News - June 7th, 2013 - 12:29pm

Dryden businesses are encouraged to attend a planning and information meeting on Monday.
It starts at 5:30 at Earl's Court, with the rain out location being the Central.
Business owners will be able to chime in on ideas and initiatives for this summer.

By CKDR News - June 7th, 2013 - 9:24am

The Royal Canadian Legion in Dryden celebrates Flag day this weekend.
A ceremony will be held at the Dryden cemetery on Saturday at 11 o'clock.
There will be a free lunch to follow at the Legion.
A second ceremony takes place Sunday in Amesdale at 11 o'clock.
The Legion recognizes our Canadian flag at this time every year.

By CKDR News - June 7th, 2013 - 8:19am

New Brunswick Premier David Alward is encouraged with the prospect of building a west to east pipeline to bring Alberta oil to Saint John for refining and transport overseas.
The idea will be getting a boost today with the visit to the province by Alberta Premier Alison Redford.
Premier David Alward tells our sister station CHSJ News such a pipeline would provide more money for government programs.
He says the pipeline is important for Canada and compares it to the construction of a national railway line.
Alberta Premier Alison Redford will be speaking to the Board of Trade and touring the Irving Oil refinery.
(Photo: Alison Redford)

By CKDR News - June 7th, 2013 - 8:15am

A tragic end to the search of a missing Minnesota man in Quetico Provincial Park.
The body of 78-year-old Richard Barber was located Thursday in Basswood Lake by Provincial Police and the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Richard and his wife Elaine were in the boundary of the park for a canoe trip when their canoe capsized.
Rescue crews were able to locate Elaine and return her safely to Atikokan.

By CKDR News - June 7th, 2013 - 8:13am

A man caught speeding on Highway 17 in the Dryden area is in trouble with the law.
Officers stopped a 2003 Dodge Caravan and conducted a search of the vehicle.
Police found a large amount of illegal tobacco.
45-year-old Zelzko Paulic has been charged with possession of unmarked cigarettes.
He's due in court on August 13th.

By CKDR News - June 7th, 2013 - 8:12am

The Northern Lights Community Theater in Sioux Lookout is out with its second production of the year.
Spokesperson Stu Cummings says it's based on the original classic "The Odd Couple".
Cummings says this version has a bit of a twist as it centers around two women.
He notes those in attendance will be leaving with their sides sore of laughing.
"The Odd Couple" is being presented at Queen Elizabeth High School and starts at 7:30 Friday and Saturday.

By CKDR News - June 7th, 2013 - 8:04am

The Ministry of Natural Resources is reporting one new fire in the region.
It's about 2-kilometres east of Hudson along the railway tracks.
The fire hazard remains high to extreme in the Far North, while it remains moderate for the Dryden and surrounding area.

By CKDR News - June 6th, 2013 - 4:19pm

Provincial Police are searching for Minnesota man, following a distress call near Basswood Lake, which borders Quetico Provincial Park. After receiving the call on Sunday, police began searching for two missing people, but were unable to find them due to the darkness. OPP along with the Ministry of Natural Resources were able to find a female, also from Minnesota on Monday and she was taken back to Atikokan.
The OPP Underwater Search and Recovery Unit and Aviation Services are helping with the search.

By CKDR News - June 6th, 2013 - 4:09pm

Pulling an all-nighter for a great cause!
Red Lake is holding its Relay for Life tomorrow night at Centennial Park.
Co-Chair Joanne Brownlee says there will be games and activities for kids from 5-7pm, with the opening ceremonies to follow.
Throughout the 12-hour fundraiser, there will be activities and music playing all night long.
Brownlee encourages everyone in the area to come out, and help fight cancer!

By CKDR News - June 6th, 2013 - 4:05pm

Confederation College in Dryden holds its ceremony next Tuesday at 1 o'clock at the Centre.
A dinner will follow at 6 o'clock at Eagles Landing.
A graduation social and dance will be offered to the public after dinner.
Tickets are $3 and all proceeds will go to a local charity to be named later.

By CKDR News - June 6th, 2013 - 4:04pm

The Ontario Provincial Police are celebrating Veterans Day and the president of the Veterans Association was in Kenora to meet with officers.
Bob Arbour says it's great that more detachments in Northwestern Ontario are welcoming their veterans.
He says about 35 different detachments across the province locally invited their retirees for refreshments and to share their stories.
Looking back, Arbour says times are changing and so is the equipment.
Arbour was also able to tour the new Forensic Identification Unit at the Kenora Detachment.

By CKDR News - June 6th, 2013 - 3:24pm

Dryden Police are asking for the public's help to solve a case of mischief.
Officers were called to a St. Charles Street apartment building early this morning where a vehicle parked on the north side of the building had been severely damaged.
Police say a 2002 Chrysler Sebring had the windshield smashed, all four tires punctured and spray painting on the hood, drivers side and trunk.
There was also a small dent on the hood.
Police believe it happened sometime between 12:30 and 6:30am.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dryden Police or CrimeStoppers.

By CKDR News - June 6th, 2013 - 11:03am

Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty says he understands why Conservative MP Brent Rathgeber decided to step down.
Rathgeber is blaming his resignation on what he's calling the Harper government's lack of commitment to transparency.
Rafferty says he's absolutely correct.
He says the Conservative government talks about transparency and being completely open and honest, but stresses it's the furthest from the truth.
Rafferty says Prime Minister Harper is controlling his caucus and private members bills.
The NDP member claims there are a lot of unhappy Conservative MP's and notes there's trouble in the ranks.
Rathgeber, the Edmonton-St. Albert M-P, says he's had doubts for about a year, but the final straw was the Harper government's decision to water down his private member's bill to expose the salaries of senior federal civil servants.
He wanted to set the transparency bar at $188,000, but the Tory-dominated committee raised the threshold to $400,000.

By CKDR News - June 6th, 2013 - 9:48am

No one was injured in a massive barn fire in Oxdrift.
Firefighters were called to the blaze on the Robin Hill farm on Adams road around 10 o'clock Wednesday night.
The Oxdrift Fire Team says crews arrived to a barn fully engulfed and threatening surrounding buildings.
With support from Dryden and Machin fire, crews were able to contain the blaze.
Firefighters spent the entire night and this morning extinguishing the fire.
The barn was completely destroyed and the cause is under investigation.
Officials say smoke from the fire could be seen from Dryden.

By CKDR News - June 6th, 2013 - 7:06am

The Progressive Conservatives want the Provincial Police to investigate the destruction of government documents relating to the cancelled gas plants by senior Liberal staffers.
Tory Rob Leone says there should be penalties after Ontario's Privacy Commissioner found staff in former premier Dalton McGuinty's office broke the law by deleting emails on the cancelled gas plants.
The Tories want to the O-P-P to determine how widespread the
document destruction was and if any of the missing data can be recovered.
N-D-P Leader Andrea Horwath says the report shows it's ``not in the Liberals' D-N-A'' to be transparent or accountable.
Horwath dispute's Premier Kathleen Wynne's claims that documents were no longer destroyed once she took over from Dalton McGuinty.
The opposition parties allege the Liberal destroyed the emails to hide the true cost of cancelling the gas plants, now an estimated $585-million.
(Picture: Tory Rob Leone)

By CKDR News - June 6th, 2013 - 6:47am

The 32nd annual Dryden Family Safety Night is being called a true success.
Police Chief Rob Davis says he believes attendance was up from last year and stresses it was nice to see the family dynamic at the event.
Davis says it's great for the Police Service as officers get a chance to interact with local residents.
He adds Police also get an opportunity to network with other agencies.
Over 30 local organizations took part in the annual event last night at the Memorial Arena.

By CKDR News - June 6th, 2013 - 6:43am

A 25-year-old woman is facing charges after she tried to smuggle painkillers into northwestern Ontario.
Canada Border Services says that she was nabbed at the Thunder Bay International Airport after returning from a trip to the United States.
They say she had over 140 hydrocodone pills which she did not have a prescription for.

By CKDR News - June 5th, 2013 - 4:24pm

The Domtar Mill in Dryden is kicking off Centennial Celebrations with a tree planting ceremony.
Employees have planted 150-seedlings along the Wabigoon River in front of the mill facing the city.
General Manager Jim Blight says 2013 marks 100-years of pulp production on the current site.

By CKDR News - June 5th, 2013 - 2:45pm

Keeping things safe for fuel truck drivers in Northwestern Ontario.
Morgan Fuels and Imperial Oil held a "Truck Rodeo" this afternoon at the Dryden Airport.
The event tests drivers skill levels and tests them on equipment knowledge.
Senior Accountant Executive with Imperial Oil Martyn Iles says they tried to have some fun with it by letting the drivers take part in an obstacle course.
Iles says they also simulated a delivery to a customer, making sure all safety precautions were being met.
The top three drivers who passed the test with the highest grade were awarded prizes.
While this "rodeo" featured drivers from Sioux Lookout, Pickle Lake, Dryden, Vermilion Bay and Kenora, Iles says they will have another rodeo in Atlantic Canada later this year and in Central Canada next year.
Morgan Fuels operates about 15 trucks in Northwestern Ontario.

By CKDR News - June 5th, 2013 - 2:32pm

Provincial Police in Sioux Lookout have nabbed another drunk driver.
Officers were on patrol early this morning when they saw a vehicle run a stop sign.
Police say a 24-year-old man has been charged with impaired driving.
He was held overnight and is scheduled to appear in bail court Thursday.

By CKDR News - June 5th, 2013 - 2:29pm

Provincial Police in Big Trout Lake have been busy over the past few days.
Officers responded to a disturbance call and charged Russell Beardy with one count of assault and uttering threats.
Police say he was released from custody and will appear in court Thursday.
In a separate incident, police arrested a man in connection with the theft of gas at the KI Economic Development fuel farm.
Police say Wally Anderson has been charged with theft under $5,000 and breach of trust.
He's also due in court on Thursday.
In a third case, officers responded to a call for service at the airport and charged Sharon Sainnawap with one count of possession.
She is expected to appear in court on July 11.

By CKDR News - June 5th, 2013 - 2:19pm

There's something for everyone at the 32nd Annual Dryden Family Safety Night.
It's today from 4 until 7 at the Memorial Arena.
Admission is free and there will be draw prizes.
There will be displays and demonstrations, both inside and outdoors.

By CKDR News - June 5th, 2013 - 11:45am

Thunder Bay Councillor Ken Boshcoff is taking issue with Tbaytel's decision to start charging for cell phone paper bills.
The company claims the $2 fee for paper bills will help them save money and become more eco-friendly.
Boshcoff takes issue with the company's environmental claims, stating it hurts the forest industry.
Boshcoff believes it would have made more sense to focus on the financial savings rather than the environment.

By CKDR News - June 5th, 2013 - 11:02am

Tim Hortons will be sending two young Dryden area kids to camp this year.
Dryden store manager Aaron Brown made the announcement today as the CKDR Morning Show broadcast live at Tim Hortons for 'Camp Day'.
Proceeds from all coffee sales until midnight will go towards the 'Camp Day' program.
The Tim Horton Children's Foundation started in 1975 in Parry Sound with just one camp and now operates six year-round camps across Northwestern Ontario.
Last year, 'Camp Day' raised $11-million in Canada and the United States.
Meantime, our area will soon be home to a new Tim Hortons Camp.
The camp will be located in the Whiteshell Provincial Park in Manitoba, near the Ontario boundary.
Aaron Brown says it's an exciting opportunity.
Brown says its taken a couple of years to get off the ground but understands that construction is imminent.
The leadership camp will be for older teens who have been through the 'Camp Day program' and will develop leadership skills.

By CKDR News - June 5th, 2013 - 10:24am

Tbaytel says it should have no problem in complying with new CRTC rules on two year cellphone contracts.
While some phone companies say 6 months may be not be enough time to comply, Tbaytel's Katie Crowe says they will be ready.
Crowe says there isn't anything in the ruling the company isn't working on already.
Crowe adds while complying in some areas may be a challenge the deadline is achievable.
The CRTC has allowed Canadians to terminate their contracts after two years without cancellation fees.

By CKDR News - June 5th, 2013 - 10:22am

Another day, another scam in our area.
Provincial Police say a number of residents have contacted them regarding police organizations calling to solicit funds for the Community Bear Program.
The O-P-P's teddy bear program provides officers with black and white teddy bears which they give to traumatized children they encounter at incidents such as motor vehicle collisions.
The O-P-P says it doesn't solicit funds from members of the public for its Community Bear Program or any other O-P-P program

By CKDR News - June 5th, 2013 - 10:21am

New changes to the Endangered Species Act will benefit forestry companies in Northwestern Ontario.
That's the feeling Jamie Lim who is the President of the Ontario Forest Industries Association.
Lim says the changes will streamline operations and allow for more co-ordination between forestry companies.
She adds it will make it easier for companies to ensure their forest management plans are working as the province has eliminated duplicate rules that the industry is facing.
The new changes will be in place for the next 5-years and come into effect following 6 years of lobbying.

By CKDR News - June 5th, 2013 - 10:14am

Another environment accomplishment for the Keewatin-Patricia District School Board.
Five schools, including Dryden High School and the Golden Learning Centre in Balmertown, have attained Ontario EcoSchools Certification.
Board Spokesperson Kathy Boone says the honour recognizes the work that has been done this year.
Boone notes students and teachers have been instrumental in taking on their own environmental initiatives.
She's calling the public school board a "green leader".
Boone notes the Board was one of the first in Ontario to develop an environmental policy to guide operations and the curriculum.
EcoSchool certification looks at energy conservation, waste management, ecological literacy and school ground greening.
Other schools recognized include Beaver Brae High School, Lakewood and Upsala.

By CKDR News - June 5th, 2013 - 10:09am

The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association feels power needs are being overlooked because of our location.
President Dave Canfield says the province and energy companies still don't have the right numbers for how much power will be needed when the mining sector takes off.
Canfield says the north doesn't have the infrastructure or transmission lines in place to meet future demands.
He stresses they have been sounding the alarm bell for years now but the government hasn't taken action.
Canfield says if we were in southern Ontario, this issue would have been addressed months ago.
Canfield adds that a big concern is the conversion of the Thunder Bay generating station from coal to gas.
He is recommending the Thunder Bay generating station be converted to gas with a back up plan in place to use coal.
Canfield notes we could experience blackouts in 2 years time.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 5:32pm

Dryden Mayor Craig Nuttall says Council was premature to raise taxes.
Nuttall remains confident that the recent Domtar Mill assessment will get overturned and says the loss of $1,000,000 dollars in revenue is not entirely true.
However he adds that once taxes are increased it never goes away.
In addition, Nuttall believes that some City departments haven't bothered to look at cuts and believes they are "overstaffed."
Meanwhile, Nuttall says they continue to fight the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation, adding that it will be stayed because they have their legal opinion to do so.
Nuttall says he continues to meet with high level officials with the Ministry of Finance and Municipal Affairs and is confident that the assessment will get overturned.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 3:56pm

The Northwestern Ontario Tourism Association is supporting proposed changes to walleye fishing.
President Lucas Adams says lower catch limits are needed to protect the local fish population.
Adams adds they also want to see no walleye over 18-inches allowed to be kept.
Adams believes that the proposed rule won't affect fishing camps, saying that most tourists don't ask about regulations when booking trips and don't have any issue when learning about them once arriving to the camps.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 3:53pm

Provincial Police are confirming one fatality in a house fire in the Fort Frances area.
OPP, the Fort Frances Fire Department, the LaVallee Fire Department and Ambulance personnel responded to the blaze in on May 31st on Highway 11/71 in Devlin.
Police say the deceased is 49-year-old Laureen McKay.
The North West Region Crime Unit and Fort Frances OPP will assist the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshall to determine the cause of the fire.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 3:49pm

First Nations in Northwestern Ontario continue to receive support from the Federal Government.
FedNor has announced $73,800 for the Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund, which will enhance the operation of diesel generating stations.
Independent power authorities will receive financial and business management software that will help First Nations communities with cash flow and capital expenses, record purchases, standardize billing and assist with identifying efficiencies.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 10:27am

Ornge Air helicopters across the region are back in service.
The air ambulance provider grounded its Sikorsky S-76 choppers last Friday following a fatal crash in Moosonee.
Ornge says that while the crash remains under investigation, preliminary information from the Transportation Safety Board did not raise concerns regarding the S-76 fleet.
Ornge officials state they ``are confident they are safe to return to service.''
Four people died in the crash.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 9:52am

Dryden High School will be rocking tomorrow night for the annual season ending performance.
Music in Motion 11 starts at 6:30 at the Gordon Wood Auditorium.
Michelle Carter and Amber Warren were guests on the CKDR Morning Show today and they promised a great event.
Grade 9-12 music students at DHS will be joined by music and fine arts students from Open Roads school.
Carter and Warren says more than 100-students will come together for two finale pieces.
One finale will be a rock show with vocals.
Tickets are $5 and are available at the door.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 9:25am

Dryden's Tommy Johnson is receiving a major award for his work promoting fire safety.
The local Shaw Cable producer will receive the award at the Fire Marshal's Public Safety Council ceremony next Thursday in Toronto.
The Council says they rely on Johnson to cover many of their public education activities and he's done that through a number of televised events.
Officials add Johnson strives to enhance fire safety education by posting clips on social media.
Council Chair Ted Wieclawek says Johnson is a well-respected and talented individual who has made fire safety his cause.
He adds he's gone above and beyond the call of duty.
Wieclawek adds that he's been known to engage with residents and question them on their fire safety knowledge as well as providing them with information and tips.
Dryden Fire Chief Ken Kurz added they are proud of Johnson's commitment to public fire and safety education that he and Shaw TV supports throughout Northwestern Ontario.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 9:02am

A group of about 25-people attended last night's special council meeting and several in attendance were quite vocal about the tax hike during the hour long debate.
Cathy Hutchison says she can't afford another increase.
Hutchison says those with higher valued homes already pay more for policing, fire and emergency services.
Hutchison stresses we should all be paying the same.
She believes council should have approved a 0% tax increase.
Hutchison says she's already paying $7,311 in taxes.
Hutchison brought along a 100-plus signature petition calling for a zero percent increase, however that petition was never officially submitted into Council records.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 8:57am

Finance Chair Martin MacKinnon believes the City of Dryden has taken a major step backwards.
MacKinnon is one of two councilors who voted against the 2013 budget and tax increase on Monday night.
MacKinnon says Dryden can't attract new business by raising taxes.
He says a 10% increase last year drove a couple of businesses away.
He says it's clearly obvious that Council is split on the direction the City should take.
MacKinnon notes another tax hike will do nothing to jump-start the economy.
He adds the increase will also hurt low income families.
Sid Wintle was also quite vocal in his opposition to the budget.
Wintle says some homeowners and businesses will be paying 9.3% more in taxes and they can't afford it.
He accuses the city of foolish spending and says money has been wasted on such things as the ball diamonds.
Wintle stresses the city can't continue to spend money it doesn't have.
Wintle is also reacting to news that 41-staff positions have been eliminated and various departments have done everything they can to find savings.
He says most of the impacted workers took a severance package or found better paying jobs.
Wintle stresses there's still plenty of room for cuts.
Dryden Mayor Craig Nuttall also voted against the budget and the tax hike.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 8:43am

Four councilors are speaking in favour of the approved budget and the tax increase.
Brian Collins says he doesn't like the tax increase any more than anyone else but notes it was time to lay the budget to rest.
Collins says staff have done their best to find savings and notes the City had to approve the budget because there's no money coming in.
Collins says the City will be looking at an operational review of all core services.
He notes you likely won't see the same services at this time next year.
Mary Trist also supported the budget, noting the City can't afford any more cuts.
Trist says residents are using our parks, ball diamonds, soccer fields and the arena and notes Dryden must continue to be a community where families and young people want to stay.
Ken Moss was the third to vote in favour of the budget stating it's a difficult balancing act between gutting services and minimizing the impact on taxpayers.
Moss pointed to his department, Public Works, stressing they are already working with a skeleton staff.
Moss says our roads and other critical infrastructure will suffer if additional cuts are made.
Shayne MacKinnon says he's pleased Council passed the budget.
He says staff worked hard to find common ground.
MacKinnon says when you get advice from your workers, managers, Treasurer, City Manager and many members of the public to pass the budget there should be no choice.
MacKinnon notes some on council simply voted no on principle, defying logic and professional advice.
He says in a statement that it's tantamount to have someone else do your dirty work for you.
MacKinnon says he looks forward on moving forward and concentrating on hiring a new City Manager and complete an operational review.
(Picture: Treasurer Adrienne Bodnarchuk)

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 8:31am

Nine months of debate and cuts across the board have come to an end with the passing of the 2013 Dryden budget.
The average ratepayer will see a 6.9% increase, however those with a higher property assessment will by looking at a roughly 9.3% hike.
Treasurer Adrienne Bodnarchuk notes that the average person did see a drop in their assessment this year.
For every $100,000 in assessed value, residential property taxes would be $1,836, broken down by education and municipal taxes. (Up from $1,680 in 2012).
For every $100,000 in assessed value, commercial property taxes would be $4,189, broken down by education and municipal taxes. (Up from $3,891)
Interim City Manager Art Wellington says the hike is needed to cover the costs of the mill assessment, the Dryden Mobility debenture debt and Dryden Telephone debt.
Wellington says a defeated budget would have resulted in additional service cuts.
Treasurer Adrienne Bodnarchuk says the tax ratio for the broad industrial class has been reduced from 18.8% to 11.5%, which she says is more consistent with the tax increases for other classes.
The 2013 capital budget is fairly bare bones at $3.7-million and waterworks capital has been set at $500,000.
Council voted 4-3 in favour of the budget and tax hike last night after an hour of debate at a special meeting.
Yes-Shayne MacKinnon, Ken Moss, Mary Trist and Brian Collins.
No-Mayor Craig Nuttall, Martin MacKinnon and Sid Wintle.
(Picture: Art Wellington)

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 7:42am

Two people escaped serious injuries following a single vehicle mishap on Highway 17 near Upsala.
Provincial Police say the driver of the vehicle fell asleep at the wheel around 6:30 Sunday morning.
Police say the vehicle hit the gravel shoulder and rolled into the ditch.
The driver and passenger walked away from the crash and a Prince Edward Island man has been charged with careless driving.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 7:41am

A 34-year-old man faces second degree murder charges in the May 12th death of Uriah Kakepetum in Sandy Lake First Nation.
Kakepetum died at the Sandy Lake Nursing Station and a post-mortem exam determined he was the victim of a homicide.
An investigation was launched by Provincial Police and the Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service.
Police arrested Leslie Fiddler of Sandy Lake First Nation yesterday.
Fiddler is due in court today.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 7:39am

Ontario and Manitoba are defending the decision to commit more than $15-million to get UNESCO recognition for a large stretch of Boreal forest along the inter-provincial boundary.
Michelle Nowak of Ontario's Natural Resources Department says the site could fill a gap in Boreal forest representation in the world heritage system.
Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger says having the forest designated a world heritage site will attract tourists to the remote area.
He says it will also make it easy to protect the area from development.
The attempt to get a stamp of approval from the United Nations agency has been in the works for almost a decade.
It has hit a snag as two advisory groups to UNESCO's world heritage committee said there were problems with the bid and
recommended that the issue be deferred for at least a year.
The committee will consider that recommendation later this month.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 7:36am

Work continues on the 2014-2018 Wabigoon Forest Management Plan.
Looking at comments from the public meeting in April, Plan Author and Domtar Spokesperson Penny Ratushniak says some residents were concerned about trails being destroyed.
Ratushniak says they follow best management practices to make sure trails aren't destroyed.
She stresses those trails will still be there and it's just a matter of how the area will be harvested and regenerated.
Ratushniak says the Ghost Lake Trail Alliance is building new trails where there are younger trees.
She notes it will be 50-60 years before those trees can be harvested.
Ratushniak says they will bring forward their draft plan on July 5th.
She addressed Alliance concerns at a public meeting Monday night.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 7:19am

A 30-year-old man has been caught lying to police in Sioux Lookout.
Officers were on foot patrol on the Frog Rapids bridge on the weekend when they were notified that some people were fishing and were possibly in possession of an illegal sized fish.
OPP say one of the men provided a false statement about catching slot-sized fish.
Police say Joey Agustin faces counts of making a false statement and possessing a fish of a prohibited size.
A 39-year-old man was also charged with possession of marijuana.

By CKDR News - June 4th, 2013 - 7:13am

The Chief Executive Officer of Firefly in northwestern Ontario is applauding a new national anti-bullying and anti-discrimination program.
Karen Ingebritson says it's still too early to know exactly how it will work, but is confident it will promote anti-bullying initiatives in the region.
Ingebritson notes the program will focus on young people helping each other.
She says they find youth are very responsive to messages they get from their peers and she calls it a promising model that is being proposed.
The program will be set up through the Canadian Red Cross.
The idea is to train thousands of young people to deliver anti-bullying workshops in their communities.
Each facilitator will commit to reaching out to at least 20 other kids.

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 4:27pm

The number crunching is complete and more than $13,000 was raised in CKDR's two week drive to secure fireworks on Canada Day.
$12,000 will be earmarked for July 1st fireworks this year and the rest will be set aside for fireworks next year.
Dryden Mayor Craig Nuttall thanked CKDR for the fundraising effort and stressed it shows there are lots of people and businesses that are concerned about Dryden.
In addition to the $13,000, there is still an extra $1,000 in outstanding pledges.

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 4:21pm

TBaytel has not yet responded to news the federal government is making changes to wireless contracts.
The Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission says as of December, customers will be able to cancel their cellphone contracts after two years without any
penalties, even if they've signed up for longer terms.
Tbaytel's Katie Crowe says they are looking over the decision, but early indications show that it is in line with what the company is doing already.

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 4:20pm

A cross-country bike ride is raising awareness about mental health issues.
Bill Werthmann and two others were in Dryden this afternoon, as they spoke to people about depression, suicide and other issues affecting youth and young adults.
Werthmann's daughter Hillary passed away 10-years ago from suicide, and Werthmann came up with the ride two-years ago.
The riding group started off in Victoria, British Columbia on May 8th and their journey will end in St. John's, Newfoundland in late July.
The next stop for the group is Ignace on Tuesday, where they will be camping at Birchland Trailer Park.
For more information about "Hillary's Ride" and to follow the journey, visit www.hillarysride.ca

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 4:16pm

Two charges for a Sioux Lookout woman following an altercation with Provincial Police.
Officers came across an intoxicated woman on First Avenue early Sunday morning.
OPP say the accused became aggressive.
Police found that 32-year-old Glenda Wesley was also in possession of marijuana.
As a result, police have charged her with resisting arrest and possession of a controlled substance.

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 1:37pm

Kenora-MP Greg Rickford says they are making adjustments in wake of the Senate expense scandal.
It follows the former chief of staffs 90-thousand-dollar payment to Senator Mike Duffy.
Rickford says they are working to make things right.
He says they want to see it taken care of, and unfortunately there has been some disappointing expenditures to an unaccounted senate.
Moving forward, Rickford hopes they can make the Senate a more accountable part of Parliament, by ruling out ruling out the kinds of expenditures, such as travel, that senators can claim.
Rickford concludes by adding they haven't received any reception from the Liberals or NDP.

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 10:50am

The victims of a fatal float plane crash in Red Lake are being remembered as caring, community minded people.
Brenda and Jim Beauchene died when their float plane crashed into the Bruce Channel Thursday evening.
The Beauchene's were prominent figures in Phoenix, Arizona but were both born in Canada.
In an e-mail to the CKDR newsroom, Brenda's cousin Sue Beaudry stated that the two were headed to the fly-in tourist camp they had just purchased.
Beaudry says this would have been one of their first weeks to run the camp.
She says Brenda had just called her all excited about their new adventure and now that they would be close to her, they would be able to renew their friendship.
Jim was a plastic surgeon specializing in hands.
Beaudry says when Brenda contacted her this spring, she was wanting information as to how Jim could maybe help out in the community offering his medical services.
She says they both were community oriented.
The couple leaves behind identical twin daughters and a son.
The cause of the crash is still not known.
(Photo: ABC News)

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 9:43am

Another packed house Saturday at the Fairgrounds for the annual Newfie Night Seafood Dinner and Dance.
This year, funds were raised for the 'Eagles on Track' program.
Mike Wood says they are close to their fundraising goal to resurface the Harry McMaster track.
Wood believes they may be able to start work after the school year finishes and notes it should be ready before the start of a new school year.
Wood says Newfie Night is an "incredible event" and notes they were honoured to be selected as the recipient this year.
Newfoundland Labrador Heritage Club member Bill McIssac says it takes a lot of work to pull this event off each year.
McIssac says they have over 100-volunteers involved and notes they wouldn't be able to host the event without the support of the community.
McIssac says roughly $140,000 has been raised for Dryden area charities over the past 20-years.
The final total for this year isn't yet known.
(Picture: Some of the original members of the Heritage Club)

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 9:26am

The sun is finally out after a rainy weekend.
Ear Falls recorded the most rain at 59.1-millimetres, while Sioux Lookout was next at 56.6-millimetres.
Dryden received 55-millimetres of rain.
The municipality of Red Lake is recording 30.3-millimetres.
The rain was good for the forest fire situation.
No new fires were reported in northwestern Ontario over the past five days and the hazard has dropped to low across most of the region.

These are totals for the 4 days, May 30th to June 2 2013
Dryden-55.0 millimetres
Ear Falls-59.1
Fort Frances airport-16.7
Fort Frances town-20.6
Kenora-38.9
Red Lake town-30.3
Sioux Lookout-56.6
Sioux Narrows-38.1
Mine Centre-16.6

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 9:24am

Provincial Police in Sioux Lookout are looking for a man who attacked a woman outside a Third Avenue apartment complex.
OPP say a man approached the victim and asked her for a smoke.
She declined and the man began to choke her.
He was scared off when a vehicle drove by and honked its horn.
OPP couldn't locate the culprit.
He's described as a First Nations man, 5-foot-10, and about 200-pounds.
He was wearing a long sleeved jean jacket, with a white baseball hat.
Anyone with information is asked to contact OPP or Crime Stoppers.

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 9:22am

Dryden Council is hoping to lay the 2013 municipal budget to rest tonight.
A special meeting has been scheduled for 7 o'clock.
Staff and Council have been debating the financials and how deal with a sizable deficit for months now.
Sid Wintle has already stated he will vote against the budget if the tax hike is more than 3%.

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 9:21am

A cockpit voice recorder may hold clues to the cause of Friday's deadly crash of an Ornge air ambulance helicopter in northern Ontario.
The Transportation Safety Board says its investigation will likely be aided by the discovery of the voice recorder, which is
being sent to the agency's Ottawa lab for analysis.
The copter had just left its base in Moosonee to pick up a patient in the remote community of Attawapiskat when it crashed
early Friday morning, killing the two Ornge pilots and two paramedics on-board.
T-S-B investigators at the crash scene have determined the chopper had a ``high energy impact'' crash and are
interviewing potential witnesses and air ambulance officials.
As a precaution Ornge has grounded all five remaining Sikorsky S-76's in its fleet.

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 9:18am

Provincial Police have recovered the bodies of two Americans from the bottom of Red Lake.
59-year-old Jim Beauchene and 58-year-old Brenda Beauchene were the two people on board a float plane that crashed shortly after takeoff on Thursday evening.
The Beachene's were headed to a tourist camp north of Red Lake when their plane went down in the Bruce Channel.
The Transportation Safety Board is on scene continuing the investigation.

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 9:17am

A successful Relay for Life in Sioux Lookout.
Over $51,000 was raised for the Canadian Cancer Society.
11-teams and over 120-walkers braved the rain to take part in the 12-hour event.
The next Relay is this Friday and Saturday in Red Lake.

By CKDR News - June 3rd, 2013 - 9:15am

A stalemate has developed in a bid to get UNESCO recognition for a stretch of forest along the Ontario-Manitoba boundary.
More than $14-million tax dollars has gone into a bid to have the vast northern region declared a world heritage site, partly based on how aboriginals have maintained their traditional ties to the land.
But a UNESCO advisory body says a ruling should be delayed for a year or more because questions remain about whether aboriginal land-use in the region is different or better than elsewhere.
Project spokesperson Sophia Rabliauskas says First Nations in the region refuse to try to prove superiority over
other aboriginals, and UNESCO should change the way it assesses projects.
The Ontario and federal governments have also contributed money to the project.

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