Ken Kellar is a reporter who was born and raised in Fort Frances. After spending several years in various parts of the country for school and work, Ken returned home to join the Fort Frances Times in 2019. He has an Advanced Diploma in Print & Broadcast Journalism from Humber College in Toronto, Ontario, and has contributed to the Humber Etcetera, Humber Daily News and CityNews Toronto (formerly 680News).
Santa Claus is coming to Fort Frances on Saturday, Nov. 29, and his grand entry will be heralded by a parade of floats from businesses and organizations from across the Rainy River District at 5 p.m. After being hosted by the Fort Frances BIA for a number of years, the… Read more: Kiwanis Santa Claus Parade a only happens with community support
It’s not uncommon for those out of the know in the Rainy River District to think that 4-H Club is nothing but beef in the summer, but the club is working to prove that there’s a project for everyone, and welcomes new volunteers to help run them. The Rainy River… Read more: 4-H Clubs have a project for everyone, and you can help bring them to life
Ann Rousseau has received an 18 month conditional sentence after pleading guilty to one count of mail theft. The sentencing came down on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, following years of the case making its way through the justice system. While Rousseau had originally entered a guilty plea in the case… Read more: Rousseau receives 18-month conditional sentence for mail theft case
Residents of the Rainy River District will have a chance to learn more about one of history’s darkest moments first-hand, from someone with an unexpected connection to the region. Scheduled for next Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Holocaust survivor and speaker Nate Leipciger will be at the Townshend Theatre as part… Read more: Holocaust survivor, educator with ties to the district shares his story next week
‘Bram Stoker’s Dracula’ feels like a fever dream. I’m sure I’m not the first person to write that out. I can imagine several critics who first went to see Francis Ford Coppola’s 1992 adaptation of the classic vampire novel wrote something similar in their notebooks as the film played for… Read more: The season for scares…
A special fundraiser dinner will take place later this month to help support a local hairdresser living with a life-altering illness. Friends of Megan Finlayson will be hosting a special fundraiser dinner at the Sunset Country Metis Community Centre on Saturday, October 18, 2025, beginning at 5 p.m. Finlayson, a… Read more: Benefit spaghetti dinner for Megan Finlayson scheduled for October 18
A local law firm is celebrating its newly renovated space, taking a historic town building into the future in a way that will continue to serve the community and beyond. Douglas Judson and Peter Howie, the partners at the helm of JudsonHowie LLP., held a private open house event on… Read more: JudsonHowie LLP celebrates renovated office space with open house event
Group circulating petition to bring the matter back before council A local sports group is fighting to keep what it sees as its home following a decision made in the Fort Frances council chambers. The Borderland Skating Club, a long-running figure skating group operating in Fort Frances, has been sounding… Read more: Skating Club “frustrated and disheartened” over dressing room decision
By James Matthews Local Journalism Initiative Reporter jmatthews@fortfrances.com Fort Frances council will work with Agency One to meet municipal storage needs until a solution can be decided during next year’s budget discussions. Travis Rob, the town’s operation and facilities manager, said the only heated storage currently available is the garage… Read more: Council defers storage construction for 2026 budget
Staff Lindsey Coyle, the nurse who pleaded guilty to a charge of Criminal Negligence Causing Death in the death of Hermina Fletcher in November of 2022, will be facing the College of Nurses of Ontario next month. Coyle served less than one year of her two year sentence in the… Read more: Coyle to face College of Nurses of Ontario Hearing
From Riverside Health Care Press release Riverside Health Care has opened the ground-floor registration area at La Verendrye General Hospital (LVGH), conveniently located at the main entrance off Front Street. Scheduled patients, including those attending Rehabilitation, Diagnostic Imaging, Surgery, Chemotherapy, Telehealth, Laboratory or Specialist Clinics, are now asked to check… Read more: La Verendrye General Hospital Registration Services Now at Front Street Main Entrance
By Allan Bradbury Staff writer abradbury@fortfrances.com Odd weather patterns have made for a strange year for farmers in the District and nowhere is that more evident than at the Emo Agricultural Research Station. Manager Kim Jo Bliss says the station’s annual open house, to be held Thursday evening, July 31,… Read more: See how this spring’s odd weather has affected crops at the Research Station’s open house
From Riverside Health Care Press release While out fishing on July 25th, Norm Wood got the call that he had reeled in Riverside Health Care’s very first 50/50 win, netting $8,400. “It was my big catch of the day!” Norm said, chuckling. His lucky ticket also meant another $8,400 went… Read more: Norm Wood Reels in a Big One – Riverside’s First 50/50 Winner!
By James Matthews Local Journalism Initiative Reporter jmatthews@fortfrances.com Music and science have always been a huge part of Anna Schwartz’s life. Her father is a pharmacist in Fort Frances and her mother teaches high school chemistry online. So that’s the science influence during her formative years. “But they are both… Read more: Musical sensitivities inform Fort Frances local’s switch to medicine
A beloved Emo Fall Fair tradition has undergone significant changes in order to keep with the times. The Rainy River Valley Agricultural Society Fair Queen event, a longstanding fixture of the annual Emo Fair, is no more. According to event organizer Mary Croswell, even though the event hasn’t run since… Read more: Sun sets on Fair Queen, and rises on Fair Ambassador
At the conclusion of a legal case that has spanned nearly three decades and eight terms of council, the Town of Fort Frances has acknowledged a recent ruling from the Ontario Superior Court of Justice regarding ownership of the lands making up Point Park and announced it will not be… Read more: Town of Fort Frances acknowledges Point Park ruling, will not appeal
When is the last time you’ve seen nearly a hundred kids lining the waterfront in Fort Frances, lost in the joy of fishing and dreams landing “the big one”? If you were out and about this past Saturday, you might have, but if you weren’t and missed out on it,… Read more: “Nothing to do?” Well…
In a lengthy ruling from the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, the Town of Fort Frances has had its claims to the lands that make up the Point Park, as well as claims for financial compensation, dismissed in their entirety. The 72-page ruling was issued on Tuesday, June 17, 2025,… Read more: Judge dismisses town’s claims to Point Park lands
A downtown Fort Frances fixture is opening back up under a new name and ownership, but with the same commitment to quality and service. What was once Howarth’s Home Centre, and then Leon’s is now Hometown Furniture and Appliance, a brand-new venture from two local businessmen who are looking to… Read more: Hometown Furniture and Appliances opens in former Howarth’s space
It’s time to crown new Fort Frances royalty as the Mini King and Queen event returns ahead of Canada Day. The annual event is once again open to registration from now until Tuesday, June 10, 2025, allowing those interested in participating just under a week to submit their names. The… Read more: The search is on for Fort Frances’ next Mini King and Queen
Following two days of fishing, and more technical issues than any angler wants to deal with, Mike Maxton and Dylan Ossachuk were crowned the 2025 Champions of the Emo Walleye Classic on Saturday night. Maxton and Ossachuk, Team #41 in last weekend’s Emo Walleye Classic, took home the grand prize… Read more: Maxton and Ossachuk take 2025 Emo Walleye Classic title
One hundred and thirty years is an awfully long time. Think about it. One hundred and thirty years brings us all the way back from 2025 to 1895, just before the dawn of the 20th century. The Titanic hadn’t yet sunk. Neither World War had ravaged society, to say nothing… Read more: From the Editor
The public has an opportunity to learn more about a pair of energy projects planned for Fort Frances that could significantly contribute to the municipality once they are up and running. FirstLight Energy will be holding an open house information session about its proposed Solar Panel array and Battery Energy… Read more: Info sessions on solar, battery storage projects tonight at La Place Rendez-Vous
The weather may not have been ideal, but Canadian and U.S. anglers still turned out in droves last weekend to get the 2025 fishing season underway, and business was booming for one area bait and tackle shop. Hannah Mueller is the co-owner of Westside Bait and Tackle, a shop located… Read more: Westside sees strong start to walleye season with plenty of tourists
Ann Rousseau pled guilty to one count of mail theft under Canada’s Criminal Code last Thursday, May 8, 2025 at the Fort Frances Courthouse. Rousseau, a 59-year-old woman from LaVallee, is facing charges related to the theft of mail from the Fort Frances Post Office, resulting from a joint investigation… Read more: Rousseau enters guilty plea in mail theft case
Confederation College in Fort Frances recognized the newest graduates of their Women in Skilled Trades apprenticeship program. In a ceremony held at the College’s Rainy River District Campus early in the afternoon of May 13, 2025, college administrators and faculty celebrated the achievements of the most recent cohort of graduates… Read more: Confederation College celebrates graduates of Women in Skilled Trades program
From the Rainy River Future Development Corporation Press release FORT FRANCES, ON – The Rainy River Future Development Corporation (RRFDC) is pleased to announce the hiring of Cameron Scholfield as the new Tournament and Events Growth Coordinator. A recent graduate of the Sports Management program at Humber College, Cameron brings… Read more: RRFDC welcomes Cameron Scholfield as Tournament and Events Growth Coordinator
By Allan Bradbury Staff Writer abradbury@fortfrances.com In service since the 1980s, the Fort Frances water tower hasn’t seen this kind of heavy maintenance since its inauguration, but after the work is complete in the fall, it will be good to go for another 20 years or more. Environmental Superintendent for… Read more: Work underway on water tower overhaul
While awareness has risen over the past three years, as long as there are missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG), there will be walks in their honour. The third annual Walk With Our Sisters event is scheduled for Monday, May 5, 2025. The event, which is held each… Read more: Walk With Our Sisters returns to continue fight for MMIWG
A walk to help raise awareness and support of those who struggle with perinatal mental health is returning to Fort Frances next week. Flora’s Walk is an annual awareness and fundraiser walk that has been taking place across Canada since 2022. Named after Flora Babakhani, a mother in southern Ontario… Read more: Flora’s Walk returns for second local event to support perinatal mental health
Tucked away in the town’s north end, one local initiative has been helping dozens of families in town learn more about the food they eat, appreciate the hard work and skill that goes into gardening, and become more connected to the planet we call home. The Fort Frances Community Garden,… Read more: Community Garden a boon for active life, healthy eating and lower grocery bills
With a federal election day less than a month away, the Thunder Bay-Rainy River riding is heading towards a full complement of candidates who will be fighting to be the voice of the region. As of time of writing on Monday, March 31, 2025, just over a week after Liberal… Read more: Thunder Bay-Rainy River riding sees candidates turn up for election race
If you know of a local youth who has gone above and beyond for their community, it’s not too late to put their name into the running for Junior Citizen of the Year. The Town of Fort Frances is searching for its Citizens of the Year, with the nomination period… Read more: Town still searching for nominations for Junior Citizen of the Year
The Ontario government announced today that come October 1, 2025, minimum wage workers in the province will see their hourly rate bump up. The government announced the provincial minimum wage is set to increase from $17.20 to $17.60 an hour beginning October 1, 2025, in a move they are saying… Read more: Ontario set to raise minimum wage this October
The Ukrainian flag is going up at the Fort Frances Civic Centre, but another familiar flag isn’t coming down. That’s the direction taken at this week’s regular meeting of town council as councillors discussed as an item on their agenda directly related to whether or not it should continue to… Read more: Ukraine flag going up, but U.S. not coming down
Work is going ahead on the next phase of repairs to the Memorial Sports Centre roof. During last week’s meeting of town council, a tender was awarded to Se7en Hills Inc. for the project, which will involve continuing work on the Sports Centre roof that was begun with design work… Read more: Memorial Sports Centre roof work continues with second phase
One year after her disappearance, the Government of Ontario is offering a $50,000 reward for information regarding the whereabouts of Melanie Lapish. Lapish was last seen in Fort Frances at approximately 9:00 p.m. on February 26, 2024. Rainy River District OPP said that Lapish was supposed to meet an individual… Read more: $50,000 reward offered in local missing persons case
The Hallett and Owandem will be getting their new homes along the riverfront, but the cost of potential renovation work means the public will have to be content to appreciate their exteriors for the foreseeable future. During Monday night’s meeting of town council, the boats and their final resting places… Read more: Hallett and Owandem park plans moving ahead, but interior rehab work will have to wait
Two French Immersion students at St. Mary School are preparing to take an exam that will test their language skills and provide them official certification of their bilingual status. Jackson Bourgeois and Bilal Toure are both Grade 8 students in the school’s French Immersion program who will be taking the… Read more: St. Mary students preparing for official French exam
While the implementation of punishing U.S. tariffs was not a surprise to the Border Mayors Alliance, much as they hoped to avoid them, the group will continue to push to have Canada’s interests and economy protected while advocating for the border towns who stand to be deeply impacted, including Fort… Read more: Hallikas encourages residents to buy local during tariff war
In the wake of punishing tariffs imposed by the United States Government and U.S. President Donald Trump, Canada and Ontario are pushing back. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ontario premier Doug Ford held back to back press conferences yesterday, Tuesday, March 4, 2025, following the imposition of the U.S.’s… Read more: Under trade war and economic threats, Trudeau and Ford push back
On the morning following the U.S. Government’s implementation of 25 percent tariffs on Canadian goods, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has hit back, promising retaliation on what he bluntly called a “dumb thing to do.” In a press announcement held this morning, Trudeau said that Canada has been working to avert… Read more: Trudeau calls tariffs a “dumb thing” in address to Canadians
It’s Elections Day in Ontario, and if you’re reading this before 8:00 p.m. Central Time on Thursday, February 27, 2025, you still have time to make your voice heard. Head down to the local voting location, which in Fort Frances this year will be the Fort Frances Public Library Technology… Read more: Get out and vote today
As the U.S. Government continues to threaten tariffs against Canada, the local member of the Border Mayor’s Alliance says the group is still fighting to stand up for all border communities. Fort Frances mayor Andrew Hallikas is a member of the group that was formed in response to U.S. President… Read more: Mayor’s Alliance continues to work to advocate for border communities: Hallikas
It’s that time of year again when performers across the district are called to take part in the Rainy River District Festival of the Performing Arts. The Festival returns for its 83rd year in 2025, with competition beginning on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, with the French drama and speech arts… Read more: Rainy River District Festival now open for entries
Beleaguered Sunny Cove Camp is once more the subject of discussion as the town looks at alternative directions the property could be taken. At last night’s meeting of town council, Rainy Lake property returned to the agenda. Since its shutdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has extended after significant structural… Read more: Sunny Cove Camp plans head back to the drawing board
Council has adjusted how much it is spending in its capital budget for 2025 as it continues towards final approval for its financials for the year. At a special budget meeting held last night, Tuesday, February 18, 2025, council was presented with an updated budget item to consider, specifically the… Read more: Council adjusts total amounts for 2025 budgets
Ontario is in the middle of an election, but you’d be forgiven for having not noticed that. In spite of everything going on in the world, here in our corner of it, we’ve slid into an almost anemic election season. The premier called for a snap election on January 24,… Read more: Snap election too snappy?
Voters in the Kenora-Rainy River will have five names to choose from on their ballot this election. According to Elections Ontario, as of closing of nominations, members from five of Ontario’s registered political parties have stepped forward to represent the riding as part of the next provincial government. In the… Read more: Five candidates on ballot for Kenora-Rainy River
With Saturday, February 15, 2025 marking the 60th anniversary of the Canadian Flag, all of Canada’s living former prime ministers have called on Canadians to show pride in their country by flying the flag in the face of U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats and insults. In a letter to Canadians… Read more: Former Prime Ministers call on Canadians to show their pride this Saturday
A mechanical failure at Rainycrest has caused a heater to fail, though staff have assured residents and families there is no risk involved. According to an email sent out to residents, families and decision-makers by Raincrest Long-Term Care Home Administrator Tara Morelli, a rooftop heating unit on the northeast corridor… Read more: Heater fails at Rainycrest, no risk to residents
After nearly 50 years, Mark Howarth is setting off onto his next chapter. Howarth, the longtime owner of Leon’s, formerly Howarth’s Home Centre, in Fort Frances alongside his wife Twyla, has officially retired from the family business he has been running for close to five decades. It’s a significant milestone… Read more: Howarths step away from business life to enjoy retirement
A fishing site that aims to connect anglers with the best fishing around the world has named Fort Frances as one of Canada’s Best Fishing Destinations for 2025. FishingBooker is an online marketplace that claims to have 6,000 fishing guides in over 100 countries that “helps customers find and book… Read more: Fort Frances named one of Canada’s best fishing destinations
Bob Dylan probably said it best: “The Times, they are a-changin’.” I don’t imagine Dylan had the Fort Frances Times in mind when he wrote that song in the early 60s (though we were here when he did) but it’s apropos of both the situation I find myself in now,… Read more: A note from our new editor
The mayor of Fort Frances is part of an alliance he says is aimed at standing up for the rights of Canadian border towns as the United States government continues to threaten heavy tariffs against the country. As part of his regular update to council made at Monday night’s regular… Read more: Mayor joins new alliance to advocate for Canadian border towns
A long-serving Fort Frances business is changing hands, passing down through the family who has owned it since its opening and committing to continue to help the town with all of its cleaning needs. Share Bears Laundromat, located in the town’s west end, recently announced that longtime owner and operator… Read more: Share Bears Laundromat changes hands, but not commitment to the community
The Town of Fort Frances is currently looking into the feasibility of accepting international waste from Koochiching County into its aging landfill site. During last Monday night’s meeting of town council, discussion turned to an administrative report from the town’s operations and facilities division which suggested Fort Frances begin looking… Read more: Town exploring possibility of hosting U.S. waste at landfill
The Town of Fort Frances has given the final stamp of approval to two documents that will guide it through the next quarter-century or beyond. At last Monday’s meeting of Town Council, approval was given to the final draft of the Town of Fort Frances Official Plan and Zoning By-law… Read more: Town approves final drafts of new Official Plan and Zoning By-law
The Liberal Party of Canada has lost its leader, but one MP thinks the party could be all the stronger for it. Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP Marcus Powlowski spoke to the Times this week about Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s surprise announcement to step down as Liberal party leader on Monday,… Read more: Trudeau stepping down could bring back lapsed Liberals: Powlowski
After almost two months of uncertainty, the town of Fort Frances has a new sitting councillor. Following a special meeting of town council last night, William Morrison Jr. was appointed to fill the council vacancy that was created in October 2024 when then-councillor Mandi Olson announced her resignation. Morrison was… Read more: Morrison appointed to council
The nomination period for candidates looking to fill the vacant seat on Fort Frances council has ended, and six names remain in standing to become the town’s next councillor. The nomination period for the vacancy began on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, after town council elected to undergo an appointment process… Read more: Council application period closes with six names
The Town of Fort Frances is working to bring back a long-lost municipal mascot. At Monday night’s meeting of town council, Little Amik (sometimes referred to as Li’l Amik), the town’s beaver mascot, was brought back into the spotlight after years of absence. The mascot was created and registered as… Read more: Li’l Amik returning to town
A southern Ontario builder has approached the Town of Fort Frances to get in on an ambitious plan to build more affordable homes in Ontario. At Monday night’s regular meeting of town council, councillors heard a presentation from Daniel Sega, owner of Segal Construction, a Hamilton-area developer that specializes in… Read more: Southern Ontario developer brings plans to tackle affordable housing shortage in Fort Frances
If you’re still looking for a great last minute Christmas or holiday gift for your loved ones, then the Holly Daze sale event in Emo this weekend is a perfect opportunity to check out Emo Drugs and Misty River Alternatives to check out their wide selections of gifts, decor, treats… Read more: Gifts aplenty at Emo Drugs and Misty River Alternatives for Holly Daze
There’s always plenty on the go in Emo for the annual Holly Daze weekend, but be sure to make a stop in at the Emo Public Library for a bit to enjoy some crafts and activities with the kids, while also supporting the library itself. The Emo Public Library and… Read more: Crafts and snacks at Emo Public Library for Holly Daze
The count of individuals who have put their names up for the vacant Town of Fort Frances council seat has increased to five as of 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, with one week to go until the closing date for potential candidates. The nomination period for the vacancy… Read more: Five names in running for council seat
A group is proposing two new power projects in the north end of Fort Frances that it says will generate clean electricity and help support the municipality for decades. Council of the town of Fort Frances heard a presentation at their Monday, November 25, 2024, meeting from FirstLight Energy, a… Read more: Energy projects eyeing Fort Frances
The count of individuals who have put their names up for the vacant Town of Fort Frances council seat has increased to five as of Monday, December 2, 2024, with just over a week to go until the closing date for applications. The nomination period for the vacancy began on… Read more: Five names in running for council seat
Three individuals have put their names up for the vacant Town of Fort Frances council seat. The nomination period for the vacancy began on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, after town council elected to undergo an appointment process to fill the seat vacated by Mandi Olson in October. The applicants for… Read more: Three names in running for council seat so far
Fort Frances councillors are tasking administration to report on the future of Sunny Cove Camp and other revenue generating activities for the town following a series of notices of motion raised by coun. Kaleb Firth. At Monday night’s meeting of town council, three motions originally introduced by Firth at their… Read more: Councillor motions for reporting on municipal options for Sunny Cove, additional revenue
About two years ago, I got a really nice pair of boots. They’re a pair of Blundstone, a brand I had never heard of before I walked into McTaggart’s on Scott Street. I am rough on my shoes. I tend to buy at a reasonable (to me) price (around $70)… Read more: Take care of your leather goods and they’ll take care of you
If you’ve been watching the price of everything climb higher and higher over the past few years, it can be especially daunting to think about Christmas. While there can be something to be said for minimalist holiday seasons when it comes to gift giving, it’s also true that everyone likes… Read more: Sports gifts that won’t break the bank
We live in the age of technology, and its just a fact of life that most wish lists these days are heavy on the electronics. That’s not necessarily a bad thing! As technological research continues to advance by leaps and bounds, the benefits eventually trickle down to the public in… Read more: Tech toys for your (Amazon free) Christmas list at Wilson’s
$12,247,165 in capital carries over from 2024 with $17,063,530 of new capital spending proposed A number of local projects will potentially see funding in 2025 as administrations presents town council with next year’s capital budget. Council of the Town of Fort Frances held a special meeting on Monday, November 18,… Read more: 2025 Draft Capital Budget comes in at $29.3 million
The Town of Fort Frances is gearing up for significant work on the water tower in order to keep it in tip-top shape providing pressure and reserves for the system for decades to come. The discussion of the water tower and the work it requires was one of the key… Read more: Water tower will receive renovations, facelift as part of Budget 2025
Curvy Chick owner Jennifer Horton, right, was joined by Jacquee Loerzel is the community family violence counsellor forRiverside Community Counselling Services, left, to raise funds for the rainy River District Women’s Shelter of Hope in Atikokan.-Ken Kellar photoAs the month of November draws to a close, a special tea helped… Read more: Shine the Light Campaign marks Wear Purple Day with tea and scone fundraiser
The town of Fort Frances will be appealing to the provincial government for funding as it continues to grapple with aging infrastructure and equipment. At last night’s meeting of town council, council approved three reports that will see the town enter into funding agreement with the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund… Read more: NOHFC funding supporting several projects in Fort Frances
Applications are now open for the next councillor of the Town of Fort Frances. At last night’s meeting of town council, it was officially decided that the process to appoint a councillor to fill the seat vacated by Mandi Olson would begin today, and be concluded with a Special Council… Read more: Applications for vacant council seat now open
Rainy River will be receiving a new clinic thanks to a partnership that will see a continuum of health care in the region, while expanding representation for Indigenous voices in local health care. In a press release dated November 1, 2024, Riverside Health Care, along with Gizhewaadiziwin Health Access Centre… Read more: New clinic announced for Rainy River
It may be considered a niche sport by some, but squash is alive and well and growing in the District, according to someone who’s been part of the scene for decades. Bob Tkachuk, along with wife Mary Beth, has been a fixture of the local squash community since the 1980’s,… Read more: Squash Club keeps growing with Munchkin program
The draft for a new town policy covering special events is heading back to administration for further adjustment after council provided feedback to ensure parades in town aren’t negatively affected. At Monday night’s meeting of town council, Town of Fort Frances recreation and culture manager Nathan Young presented the draft… Read more: Draft special events policy could have significant impact on parades: council
Council has decided to go ahead with the design phase of a potential roundabout in Fort Frances, though larger concerns still linger. At Monday night’s meeting of Town of Fort Frances council, the application to the Connecting Links Program for funding to come up with a design to replace the… Read more: Roundabout design application to go ahead, but cost still a sticking point
Fort Frances town council has lost another sitting councillor, the second resignation to rock council so far this term. Former councillor Mandi Olson announced her resignation in a letter posted to Facebook on Friday, October 18, 2024. The resignation was officially accepted by Town of Fort Frances municipal clerk Gabrielle… Read more: Olson resigns from council
The District of Rainy River Services Board (DRRSB) is moving ahead with its plans to reshuffle paramedic services in the region in order to ensure as high a standard of service as possible, while keeping as many ambulances on the road where staffing allows. In a press release issued on… Read more: DRRSB moving forward by adjusting service levels to align with staffing
Two health care advocate organizations are pushing back against health care emergencies by way of a giant Trojan Horse. Residents of the Rainy River District who may have seen the towering horse traversing the region this week will be relieved to know their eyes aren’t playing tricks on them. Rather,… Read more: Trojan Horse Tour challenges health care privatization
UPDATE (23/10/2024): Following the original publication of this article, the office of the Solicitor General provided this statement. “We understand that some municipalities face additional costs due to their existing agreements with the OPP. We will work with these municipalities to ensure they are not negatively financially impacted by this.”… Read more: Rising policing cost not sustainable for northern municipalities: Hallikas
A new intersection could be on the way for drivers in Fort Frances, which could help to relieve traffic congestion in the centre of town. At Tuesday night’s meeting of town council, a report was brought before councillors that will kick off the process of replacing the Central Avenue intersection… Read more: Council opening the doors to rounding out Central intersection
Reprieve is coming for a local group as the town looks to adjust some user fees. At last Monday night’s meeting at the Civic Centre, Fort Frances town council heard a report from administration recommending that the Cyclone Swim Club receive a bit of a break on their pool rental… Read more: Town council grants swim club minor respite in pool rental fee
The Bargain Shop Fort Frances and Salvation Army are joining forces once again to help support those experiencing food insecurity in the lead-up to the Thanksgiving season. The Bargain Shop’s annual Thanksgiving Food Drive is now underway, officially kicking off and running until October 10, 2024. During the drive, shoppers… Read more: The Bargain Shop running annual Thanksgiving drive to benefit Salvation Army
Monday, September 30, 2024, is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation across Canada, and local organizations and agencies have banded together to offer a handful of events to honour it. The Truth and Reconciliation Committee is a group of more than a dozen local organizations who have worked together… Read more: Truth and Reconciliation events planned for Friday and Monday
The Town of Fort Frances has officially begun its annual budget process, and has heard from several citizens regarding where its attention, and a portion of its money, should be spent. At Monday night’s meeting of town council, the 2025 budget process was officially started with deliberations and a public… Read more: Traffic crossings, senior parking raised as concerns during public budget consultation
Monday, September 30, 2024, is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation across Canada, and local organizations and agencies have banded together to offer a handful of events to honour it. The Truth and Reconciliation Committee is a group of more than a dozen local organizations who have worked together… Read more: Truth and Reconciliation events planned for Friday, Monday
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Santa Claus is coming to Fort Frances on Saturday, Nov. 29, and his grand entry will be heralded by a parade of floats from businesses and organizations from across the Rainy River District at 5 p.m. After being hosted by the Fort Frances BIA for a number of years, the… Read more: Kiwanis Santa Claus Parade a only happens with community support
It’s not uncommon for those out of the know in the Rainy River District to think that 4-H Club is nothing but beef in the summer, but the club is working to prove that there’s a project for everyone, and welcomes new volunteers to help run them. The Rainy River… Read more: 4-H Clubs have a project for everyone, and you can help bring them to life
Ann Rousseau has received an 18 month conditional sentence after pleading guilty to one count of mail theft. The sentencing came down on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, following years of the case making its way through the justice system. While Rousseau had originally entered a guilty plea in the case… Read more: Rousseau receives 18-month conditional sentence for mail theft case
Residents of the Rainy River District will have a chance to learn more about one of history’s darkest moments first-hand, from someone with an unexpected connection to the region. Scheduled for next Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Holocaust survivor and speaker Nate Leipciger will be at the Townshend Theatre as part… Read more: Holocaust survivor, educator with ties to the district shares his story next week
A cat-owner and her spirited companion have been reunited after a case of mistaken identity saw the feline accidentally travel from Atikokan to Fort Frances. Heather Miller and her cat Grayson have been inseparable since she acquired him in Sioux Narrows at the age of four. Now a respectable 15… Read more: Atikokan woman reunited with missing cat after mistaken identity landed him in Fort Frances
‘Bram Stoker’s Dracula’ feels like a fever dream. I’m sure I’m not the first person to write that out. I can imagine several critics who first went to see Francis Ford Coppola’s 1992 adaptation of the classic vampire novel wrote something similar in their notebooks as the film played for… Read more: The season for scares…
A special fundraiser dinner will take place later this month to help support a local hairdresser living with a life-altering illness. Friends of Megan Finlayson will be hosting a special fundraiser dinner at the Sunset Country Metis Community Centre on Saturday, October 18, 2025, beginning at 5 p.m. Finlayson, a… Read more: Benefit spaghetti dinner for Megan Finlayson scheduled for October 18
A local law firm is celebrating its newly renovated space, taking a historic town building into the future in a way that will continue to serve the community and beyond. Douglas Judson and Peter Howie, the partners at the helm of JudsonHowie LLP., held a private open house event on… Read more: JudsonHowie LLP celebrates renovated office space with open house event
Group circulating petition to bring the matter back before council A local sports group is fighting to keep what it sees as its home following a decision made in the Fort Frances council chambers. The Borderland Skating Club, a long-running figure skating group operating in Fort Frances, has been sounding… Read more: Skating Club “frustrated and disheartened” over dressing room decision
By James Matthews Local Journalism Initiative Reporter jmatthews@fortfrances.com Fort Frances council will work with Agency One to meet municipal storage needs until a solution can be decided during next year’s budget discussions. Travis Rob, the town’s operation and facilities manager, said the only heated storage currently available is the garage… Read more: Council defers storage construction for 2026 budget
Staff Lindsey Coyle, the nurse who pleaded guilty to a charge of Criminal Negligence Causing Death in the death of Hermina Fletcher in November of 2022, will be facing the College of Nurses of Ontario next month. Coyle served less than one year of her two year sentence in the… Read more: Coyle to face College of Nurses of Ontario Hearing
From Riverside Health Care Press release Riverside Health Care has opened the ground-floor registration area at La Verendrye General Hospital (LVGH), conveniently located at the main entrance off Front Street. Scheduled patients, including those attending Rehabilitation, Diagnostic Imaging, Surgery, Chemotherapy, Telehealth, Laboratory or Specialist Clinics, are now asked to check… Read more: La Verendrye General Hospital Registration Services Now at Front Street Main Entrance
By Allan Bradbury Staff writer abradbury@fortfrances.com Odd weather patterns have made for a strange year for farmers in the District and nowhere is that more evident than at the Emo Agricultural Research Station. Manager Kim Jo Bliss says the station’s annual open house, to be held Thursday evening, July 31,… Read more: See how this spring’s odd weather has affected crops at the Research Station’s open house
From Riverside Health Care Press release While out fishing on July 25th, Norm Wood got the call that he had reeled in Riverside Health Care’s very first 50/50 win, netting $8,400. “It was my big catch of the day!” Norm said, chuckling. His lucky ticket also meant another $8,400 went… Read more: Norm Wood Reels in a Big One – Riverside’s First 50/50 Winner!
By James Matthews Local Journalism Initiative Reporter jmatthews@fortfrances.com Music and science have always been a huge part of Anna Schwartz’s life. Her father is a pharmacist in Fort Frances and her mother teaches high school chemistry online. So that’s the science influence during her formative years. “But they are both… Read more: Musical sensitivities inform Fort Frances local’s switch to medicine
Another tournament is in the books, and this year’s champions sure look a lot like last year’s. Ian Waterer and Motei Demers are the repeat winners of the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship (FFCBC), which ran last week and saw more than one hundred teams face off for a chance… Read more: Waterer and Demers crowned the repeat champions of the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship
A staple business of the Barwick area may be changing hands, but the new owners promise that customers to the shop will get the same high quality service they’ve come to expect over the years. Dimit Bus Lines Ltd. have purchased Barwick Service from longtime owner George Oltsher in a… Read more: Barwick Service purchased by Dimit Bus Lines, but same high quality service not changing
A beloved Emo Fall Fair tradition has undergone significant changes in order to keep with the times. The Rainy River Valley Agricultural Society Fair Queen event, a longstanding fixture of the annual Emo Fair, is no more. According to event organizer Mary Croswell, even though the event hasn’t run since… Read more: Sun sets on Fair Queen, and rises on Fair Ambassador
At the conclusion of a legal case that has spanned nearly three decades and eight terms of council, the Town of Fort Frances has acknowledged a recent ruling from the Ontario Superior Court of Justice regarding ownership of the lands making up Point Park and announced it will not be… Read more: Town of Fort Frances acknowledges Point Park ruling, will not appeal
When is the last time you’ve seen nearly a hundred kids lining the waterfront in Fort Frances, lost in the joy of fishing and dreams landing “the big one”? If you were out and about this past Saturday, you might have, but if you weren’t and missed out on it,… Read more: “Nothing to do?” Well…
A downtown Fort Frances fixture is opening back up under a new name and ownership, but with the same commitment to quality and service. What was once Howarth’s Home Centre, and then Leon’s is now Hometown Furniture and Appliance, a brand-new venture from two local businessmen who are looking to… Read more: Hometown Furniture and Appliances opens in former Howarth’s space
It’s time to crown new Fort Frances royalty as the Mini King and Queen event returns ahead of Canada Day. The annual event is once again open to registration from now until Tuesday, June 10, 2025, allowing those interested in participating just under a week to submit their names. The… Read more: The search is on for Fort Frances’ next Mini King and Queen
Following two days of fishing, and more technical issues than any angler wants to deal with, Mike Maxton and Dylan Ossachuk were crowned the 2025 Champions of the Emo Walleye Classic on Saturday night. Maxton and Ossachuk, Team #41 in last weekend’s Emo Walleye Classic, took home the grand prize… Read more: Maxton and Ossachuk take 2025 Emo Walleye Classic title
One hundred and thirty years is an awfully long time. Think about it. One hundred and thirty years brings us all the way back from 2025 to 1895, just before the dawn of the 20th century. The Titanic hadn’t yet sunk. Neither World War had ravaged society, to say nothing… Read more: From the Editor
The weather may not have been ideal, but Canadian and U.S. anglers still turned out in droves last weekend to get the 2025 fishing season underway, and business was booming for one area bait and tackle shop. Hannah Mueller is the co-owner of Westside Bait and Tackle, a shop located… Read more: Westside sees strong start to walleye season with plenty of tourists
Confederation College in Fort Frances recognized the newest graduates of their Women in Skilled Trades apprenticeship program. In a ceremony held at the College’s Rainy River District Campus early in the afternoon of May 13, 2025, college administrators and faculty celebrated the achievements of the most recent cohort of graduates… Read more: Confederation College celebrates graduates of Women in Skilled Trades program
From the Rainy River Future Development Corporation Press release FORT FRANCES, ON – The Rainy River Future Development Corporation (RRFDC) is pleased to announce the hiring of Cameron Scholfield as the new Tournament and Events Growth Coordinator. A recent graduate of the Sports Management program at Humber College, Cameron brings… Read more: RRFDC welcomes Cameron Scholfield as Tournament and Events Growth Coordinator
By Allan Bradbury Staff Writer abradbury@fortfrances.com In service since the 1980s, the Fort Frances water tower hasn’t seen this kind of heavy maintenance since its inauguration, but after the work is complete in the fall, it will be good to go for another 20 years or more. Environmental Superintendent for… Read more: Work underway on water tower overhaul
While awareness has risen over the past three years, as long as there are missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG), there will be walks in their honour. The third annual Walk With Our Sisters event is scheduled for Monday, May 5, 2025. The event, which is held each… Read more: Walk With Our Sisters returns to continue fight for MMIWG
A walk to help raise awareness and support of those who struggle with perinatal mental health is returning to Fort Frances next week. Flora’s Walk is an annual awareness and fundraiser walk that has been taking place across Canada since 2022. Named after Flora Babakhani, a mother in southern Ontario… Read more: Flora’s Walk returns for second local event to support perinatal mental health
Tucked away in the town’s north end, one local initiative has been helping dozens of families in town learn more about the food they eat, appreciate the hard work and skill that goes into gardening, and become more connected to the planet we call home. The Fort Frances Community Garden,… Read more: Community Garden a boon for active life, healthy eating and lower grocery bills
With a federal election day less than a month away, the Thunder Bay-Rainy River riding is heading towards a full complement of candidates who will be fighting to be the voice of the region. As of time of writing on Monday, March 31, 2025, just over a week after Liberal… Read more: Thunder Bay-Rainy River riding sees candidates turn up for election race
The Ontario government announced today that come October 1, 2025, minimum wage workers in the province will see their hourly rate bump up. The government announced the provincial minimum wage is set to increase from $17.20 to $17.60 an hour beginning October 1, 2025, in a move they are saying… Read more: Ontario set to raise minimum wage this October
Work is going ahead on the next phase of repairs to the Memorial Sports Centre roof. During last week’s meeting of town council, a tender was awarded to Se7en Hills Inc. for the project, which will involve continuing work on the Sports Centre roof that was begun with design work… Read more: Memorial Sports Centre roof work continues with second phase
One year after her disappearance, the Government of Ontario is offering a $50,000 reward for information regarding the whereabouts of Melanie Lapish. Lapish was last seen in Fort Frances at approximately 9:00 p.m. on February 26, 2024. Rainy River District OPP said that Lapish was supposed to meet an individual… Read more: $50,000 reward offered in local missing persons case
The Hallett and Owandem will be getting their new homes along the riverfront, but the cost of potential renovation work means the public will have to be content to appreciate their exteriors for the foreseeable future. During Monday night’s meeting of town council, the boats and their final resting places… Read more: Hallett and Owandem park plans moving ahead, but interior rehab work will have to wait
Two French Immersion students at St. Mary School are preparing to take an exam that will test their language skills and provide them official certification of their bilingual status. Jackson Bourgeois and Bilal Toure are both Grade 8 students in the school’s French Immersion program who will be taking the… Read more: St. Mary students preparing for official French exam
While the implementation of punishing U.S. tariffs was not a surprise to the Border Mayors Alliance, much as they hoped to avoid them, the group will continue to push to have Canada’s interests and economy protected while advocating for the border towns who stand to be deeply impacted, including Fort… Read more: Hallikas encourages residents to buy local during tariff war
In the wake of punishing tariffs imposed by the United States Government and U.S. President Donald Trump, Canada and Ontario are pushing back. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ontario premier Doug Ford held back to back press conferences yesterday, Tuesday, March 4, 2025, following the imposition of the U.S.’s… Read more: Under trade war and economic threats, Trudeau and Ford push back
A mechanical failure at Rainycrest has caused a heater to fail, though staff have assured residents and families there is no risk involved. According to an email sent out to residents, families and decision-makers by Raincrest Long-Term Care Home Administrator Tara Morelli, a rooftop heating unit on the northeast corridor… Read more: Heater fails at Rainycrest, no risk to residents
After nearly 50 years, Mark Howarth is setting off onto his next chapter. Howarth, the longtime owner of Leon’s, formerly Howarth’s Home Centre, in Fort Frances alongside his wife Twyla, has officially retired from the family business he has been running for close to five decades. It’s a significant milestone… Read more: Howarths step away from business life to enjoy retirement
The mayor of Fort Frances is part of an alliance he says is aimed at standing up for the rights of Canadian border towns as the United States government continues to threaten heavy tariffs against the country. As part of his regular update to council made at Monday night’s regular… Read more: Mayor joins new alliance to advocate for Canadian border towns
At a time when frigid weather and cold/flu season make the thought of venturing out of doors an inconvenience for some and a danger to others, one local entrepreneur is hoping to bring the warmth of a cup of tea and a good conversation to people where they are at.… Read more: Business owner takes to the road to bring tea and conversation to those at home
The Liberal Party of Canada has lost its leader, but one MP thinks the party could be all the stronger for it. Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP Marcus Powlowski spoke to the Times this week about Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s surprise announcement to step down as Liberal party leader on Monday,… Read more: Trudeau stepping down could bring back lapsed Liberals: Powlowski
After almost two months of uncertainty, the town of Fort Frances has a new sitting councillor. Following a special meeting of town council last night, William Morrison Jr. was appointed to fill the council vacancy that was created in October 2024 when then-councillor Mandi Olson announced her resignation. Morrison was… Read more: Morrison appointed to council
The Town of Fort Frances is working to bring back a long-lost municipal mascot. At Monday night’s meeting of town council, Little Amik (sometimes referred to as Li’l Amik), the town’s beaver mascot, was brought back into the spotlight after years of absence. The mascot was created and registered as… Read more: Li’l Amik returning to town
Fort Frances councillors are tasking administration to report on the future of Sunny Cove Camp and other revenue generating activities for the town following a series of notices of motion raised by coun. Kaleb Firth. At Monday night’s meeting of town council, three motions originally introduced by Firth at their… Read more: Councillor motions for reporting on municipal options for Sunny Cove, additional revenue
About two years ago, I got a really nice pair of boots. They’re a pair of Blundstone, a brand I had never heard of before I walked into McTaggart’s on Scott Street. I am rough on my shoes. I tend to buy at a reasonable (to me) price (around $70)… Read more: Take care of your leather goods and they’ll take care of you
If you’ve been watching the price of everything climb higher and higher over the past few years, it can be especially daunting to think about Christmas. While there can be something to be said for minimalist holiday seasons when it comes to gift giving, it’s also true that everyone likes… Read more: Sports gifts that won’t break the bank
We live in the age of technology, and its just a fact of life that most wish lists these days are heavy on the electronics. That’s not necessarily a bad thing! As technological research continues to advance by leaps and bounds, the benefits eventually trickle down to the public in… Read more: Tech toys for your (Amazon free) Christmas list at Wilson’s
When it’s your business to help improve herd genetics for cattle farmers across the Rainy River district, well, sometimes your peers and the province make sure you’re recognized for it. That’s life for Aaron Bujold of Bujold Farms lately. On November 2, 2024, Bujold Farms was awarded the Northern Business… Read more: Work helping strengthen herd genetics in the Rainy River District nets Bujold provincial recognition
Curvy Chick owner Jennifer Horton, right, was joined by Jacquee Loerzel is the community family violence counsellor forRiverside Community Counselling Services, left, to raise funds for the rainy River District Women’s Shelter of Hope in Atikokan.-Ken Kellar photoAs the month of November draws to a close, a special tea helped… Read more: Shine the Light Campaign marks Wear Purple Day with tea and scone fundraiser
Rainy River will be receiving a new clinic thanks to a partnership that will see a continuum of health care in the region, while expanding representation for Indigenous voices in local health care. In a press release dated November 1, 2024, Riverside Health Care, along with Gizhewaadiziwin Health Access Centre… Read more: New clinic announced for Rainy River
It may be considered a niche sport by some, but squash is alive and well and growing in the District, according to someone who’s been part of the scene for decades. Bob Tkachuk, along with wife Mary Beth, has been a fixture of the local squash community since the 1980’s,… Read more: Squash Club keeps growing with Munchkin program
The draft for a new town policy covering special events is heading back to administration for further adjustment after council provided feedback to ensure parades in town aren’t negatively affected. At Monday night’s meeting of town council, Town of Fort Frances recreation and culture manager Nathan Young presented the draft… Read more: Draft special events policy could have significant impact on parades: council
Fort Frances town council has lost another sitting councillor, the second resignation to rock council so far this term. Former councillor Mandi Olson announced her resignation in a letter posted to Facebook on Friday, October 18, 2024. The resignation was officially accepted by Town of Fort Frances municipal clerk Gabrielle… Read more: Olson resigns from council
The District of Rainy River Services Board (DRRSB) is moving ahead with its plans to reshuffle paramedic services in the region in order to ensure as high a standard of service as possible, while keeping as many ambulances on the road where staffing allows. In a press release issued on… Read more: DRRSB moving forward by adjusting service levels to align with staffing
Two health care advocate organizations are pushing back against health care emergencies by way of a giant Trojan Horse. Residents of the Rainy River District who may have seen the towering horse traversing the region this week will be relieved to know their eyes aren’t playing tricks on them. Rather,… Read more: Trojan Horse Tour challenges health care privatization
Reprieve is coming for a local group as the town looks to adjust some user fees. At last Monday night’s meeting at the Civic Centre, Fort Frances town council heard a report from administration recommending that the Cyclone Swim Club receive a bit of a break on their pool rental… Read more: Town council grants swim club minor respite in pool rental fee
The Bargain Shop Fort Frances and Salvation Army are joining forces once again to help support those experiencing food insecurity in the lead-up to the Thanksgiving season. The Bargain Shop’s annual Thanksgiving Food Drive is now underway, officially kicking off and running until October 10, 2024. During the drive, shoppers… Read more: The Bargain Shop running annual Thanksgiving drive to benefit Salvation Army
Monday, September 30, 2024, is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation across Canada, and local organizations and agencies have banded together to offer a handful of events to honour it. The Truth and Reconciliation Committee is a group of more than a dozen local organizations who have worked together… Read more: Truth and Reconciliation events planned for Friday and Monday
