Couchiching FN Toll Booth

Fort Frances Times
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Printed in Canada Volume 116 Number 52

ISSN 0834-6283 PAP No. 07429
Couchiching vows to set up toll booth

INSIDE
Aims to redress unresolved grievances
By Peggy Revell Staff writer Couchiching First Nation has announced its intention to set up a toll booth near the west end of the Noden Causeway as of May 21. The decision by the band council to set up the toll booth is twofold, explained Chief Chuck McPherson. It stems from the failure of the federal and provincial government to properly compensate the community for the land on which Highway 11 is built, as well as the governments response to the soil contamination issue believed to be caused by the former J.A. Mathieu sawmill. In the days prior to the band setting up the toll booth, it will be holding traffic slowdowns along the highway to distribute information pamphlets, outlining their concerns and reasons for the action. Its not going to affect the emergency services, stressed band councillor Eugene McPherson. Wed be dead wrong if we started doing stuff like that, he noted. The band said it also will begin charging a fee for all who launch boats from the Five-Mile Dock. The exact length of time which the toll booth will be in operation is unknown, noted Chief McPherson, saying the ultimate goal is to come to some kind of satisfactory agreement with both levels of government. Over the last 50 years since the construction of the Noden Causeway, theres been billions of dollars generated in the district economy, said Chief McPherson. And we havent been allowed to participate in that. Originally, the province and federal Department of Indian Affairs negotiated an exchange of the 44.5 acres within whats historically known as the two-chain shore allowance for the 33.9 acres of land used to build Highway 11, Chief McPherson explained. But he said the original survey of the two-chain shore allowance land was done erroneously, explaining the surveyor commissioned to survey the neighbouring Agency #1 reserve back in 1876 included land that already was part of the Couchiching reserve. As well, dam construction in the early 1900s meant only nine acres of the original 44.5 acres exists. So, in effect, we got our own land in exchange for the highway right-of-way, argued Chief McPherson. We were never compensated for it. About three years ago, the federal and provincial governments offered a combined amount of $500,000 in compensationan insult, said Chief McPherson, especially as the province has settled million-dollar claims with mining companies, such as the $5-million buy-out of Platinex Inc.s claim following a dispute with Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation. So the Couchiching band council has agreed to erect a toll booth to raise monies for economic and Please see Couchiching, A11
Home, leisure show set to go

The Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its 22nd-annual Home and Leisure Show this Friday and Saturday at the arena. This years event, which is sponsored by TBayTel and the Chamber, follows the theme Embracing the Green RevolutionThink Globally, Act Locally.
FITS plans in jeopardy over money

By Duane Hicks Staff writer Plans for this years Fun in the Sun activities are at a crisis point as the committee is not getting as much money it had hoped for from the town. At the April 12 council meeting, Scott Turvey, on behalf of the Fun in the Sun committee, asked council to provide $10,000 for fireworks this upcoming Canada Day$5,000 more than the town usually gives each year. But on Monday evening, council agreed to a recommendation from the Administration and Finance executive committee that the towns grant this year remain at $5,000the amount it already had earmarked in the 2010 budget. Turvey said yesterday hes disappointed with councils decision, adding councils contribution to the July 1 celebrations has not changed in many years. He noted $5,000 doesnt even begin to pay for a fireworks display, which nowadays cost a minimum of $10,000 each year. I am disappointed in our town council in that they have not foreseen the need of an increase after so many years, Turvey remarked. Coun. Paul Ryan, who sits on the Administration and Finance executive committee, said the town cant afford to give any more than $5,000. We have to tighten our belts, he stressed, explaining the 2010 budget is not finalized yet as council still is waiting to find out whether or not there will be a change in the funding apportionment formula for the local District Social Services Administration Board. If that formula does change, the town will have to find another $100,000 to cover its operating budget deficit. Coun. Ryan also noted the FITS committees request was forwarded to the Economic Development Advisory Committee to see if it could find any possible grants that could be applied for to help pay for Canada Day celebrations here (in addition to the Department of Canadian Heritages Celebrate Canada! grant program, for which FITS already has applied). Turvey said the FITS committee is going to have to look to corporate sources for funding, but admitted that will be difficult. And at this late date, they have very little time to plan for an effective Canada Day. Besides the grant money from the town, the FITS committee essentially has no money to put into Canada Day events. Turvey said the FITS committee has done fundraising raffles in the Please see FITS, A11
See story on A5
Author pens murder mystery

Theres murder, drugs, and drama in Finland, Ont.and its coming from the pen of district resident Chris Gallinger, who has just released her first novel, Justified. I think I wrote [the novel] because I want to leave a piece of me, said Gallinger, a homemaker and mother of six from Finland.
Healthy eating
Dr. Dimitrios about healthy crowd Friday Dr. Vergidis & Vergidis shared his insights eating and exercise with the evening during Dinner with Friends, an educational fundraiser for the Riverside Foundation for Health Care at the Memorial Sports Centre. The dinner netted about $8,500. See story, photo on A5. Duane Hicks photo
See story on B1
DU banquet big success yet again

By Dan Falloon Staff writer The rookie came through. The local Ducks Unlimited chapter, spearheaded by first-year chairperson Kevin Begin, hosted yet another successful banquet at La Place Rendez-Vous on Friday night. The 27th-annual edition of the dinner raised approximately $21,000 for the national DU organizationup from $20,140 last year. Some of the live auction items went for some pretty big bucks, so we were pretty happy to see that everyone came out and spent a little money and had a great evening, enthused Begin. In total, the local chapter has contributed roughly $650,000 to the national organization since 1984. Begin was pleased with the outcome of this years fundraiser given there was a significant changing of the guard over the last year, in
Im very happy. Its my first year as chairman. Things went very well. Kevin Begin
both his position and Chris Wielinga taking the lead as treasurer. Im very happy, he remarked. Its my first year as chairman. Things went very well. With Begin and Wielinga ascending to a pair of the top jobs, newer contributors pitched in to organize some of the raffles. Begin was impressed with their performances. We had some newer people, we gave them some big responsibilities, he noted. The younger bucks took the reins and we were impressed. They did a great job. The committee had a little bit of a younger flavour to it. They brought some younger, fresh ideas, he added. Begin thinks the newer blood at More ways to save: No Mobility Contract No Connection Fee FREE Canadian Roaming
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Arpin pumped after Nationwide debut

By Dan Falloon Staff writer Steve Arpin had to be a gamblin man at Talladega over the weekend. The Fort Frances native channelled thoughts from a fellow driver as he took to the superspeedway in Alabama for a pair of races this past weekend, including his debut in NASCARs Nationwide Series. Kevin Harvick explained Talladega best, Arpin recalled in a phone interview yesterday. Its just like walking into a casino and betting on red or black in roulette. If you bet on black, half the time its going to land on red and youre walking away disappointed, and half the time itll land on black and youre walking away with a pocket full of cash. Arpin said at that racetrack, which tends to force racers into tight packs, there can be situations that are out of a drivers hands. The one thing about Talladega is that theres only so much you can control, he explained. All you can do as a driver, and as a team, is to put yourself in position to have a shot at making a run for the win at the end, he reasoned. In Sundays Nationwide race, the Aarons 312, which was delayed a day due to rain, Arpin ran well for much of the way hovering in second place at one point. But he was dinged for speeding in the pit area and tumbled to a 26th-place finish. I learned a whole bunch, Arpin enthused. We held in Please see Arpin, A10
Boys focused on title repeat

The Muskie boys soccer website posed a question to all of the returning players over the winter. The page asked players what they were doing that day to help the team defend its NorWOSSA crown. Talk about driven.
See story on C1
the top will help lead to a bit of a different feel for the event in the coming years. Change is good, he reasoned. It keeps it fresh. Begin said his biggest challenge was being unsure as to whether he was on the right path, but the support of the committee helped him make it through. It was not knowing if I was doing anything wrong, he noted. Everybody kept asking me, So, how do you think its going? and I said, Well, if it was going badly, I dont know if Id know, he recalled. Everybody gave me a lot of encouragement. But Begin stressed even though the younger members led the Please see DU, A10
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Couchiching eyeing toll booth FITS plans

More from A1 social development ventures in their community, he stated. People think nothing of crossing the international bridge and paying a toll there, noted Chief McPherson, adding Couchiching residents pay non-resident fees to utilize services such as the library, arena, and pool in Fort Frances. And thats all were asking in returnthat if people are utilizing our property and our facilities, we want to be compensated for it, said Chief McPherson. I dont think thats unfair, I think thats reasonable. Besides the issue of the Highway 11 corridor, the decision to set up the toll booth comes following the federal governments handling of the contaminated grounds at the former site of the dipping ponds of the J.A. Mathieu sawmillwhere six residences are now situated. A large portion of Couchiching property has been found to be contaminated with dioxins, furans, and a whole multitude of other chemicals, noted Chief McPherson. The Department of Indian Affairs consented to a lease 100 years ago and in that particular area, there were a series of sawmills and wood treatment plants and so forth, and the Department of Indian Affairs has an obligation and a right to ensure that the property is restored to its original pristine state. They didnt do that, he charged. This contamination was known as early as 2003, when soil testing was done for a new police building. To date, Ottawa has spent almost $2 million in doing studies, to find out, to confirm that which they already knowits contaminated, Chief McPherson said. The land is contaminatedand all they want to do is study it. They dont want to do anything else, he remarked. At some point in time, common sense has to come into play. People are being endangered up there. Its a health issue, he stressed. We have residents living there that have indicated that they are willing to relocate. A number of them have taken out mortgages and built their own homes, and they just want to be compensated for that. And Indian Affairs is not prepared to do that, Chief McPherson said. A preliminary estimate to fully relocate these six residences to a new site that would be the same level of accommodations that they have right now amounts to about $1.5 million. We dont have the financial resources to compensate them or relocate them, noted the chief. So Canada has a responsibility. Yet Indian and Northern Affairs so far has refused to move the families, he said, with band officials being told that if we do it for Couchiching, then we have to do it for everybody. We dont want to set a precedent. Well, certainly, if people are in contaminated lands, I think the government of Canada has an obligation to ensure that safety and health are ensured, Chief McPherson added, noting this lack of action also blatantly ignores the priority of the Canadian government relative to First Nations safety and health. Couchiching Coun. Ed Yerxa called both the Highway 11 corridor and contaminated site historical long-standing issues. Those are issues that have impacted our community in not such a nice way, he said. I think the community has been patient, weve been nice. Some of the comments Ive heard from our community members is weve been nice too long. And we dont owe anybody anything out there, Coun. Yerxa stressed. When you look at the benefits that the highway has had for the district, the province, Canada, I think we need to be compensated, as well. As for the soil contamination, the site is a huge tract of landand its land the band no longer can use, he said. And the only thing that we do have, hopefully, is the land. And we have to take care of that. We have to keep it, and I dont think were ever going to compromise what we do have when it comes to the land. As for the putting up the toll booth, Coun. Yerxa said hes prepared to be here for the long haul. Were not satisfied with the services provided by the federal and the provincial government, Chief McPherson said. While health and education are to be provided to First Nations as a part of the treaties, Chief McPherson cited a recent case where Health Canada refused to cover the costs of a root canal for a young Couchiching resident, deeming it not essential. So we have to take some kind of action to compensate for trying to help our people, he reasoned. And if we can [apply] a toll fee to the million-plus cars that come through here on an annual basis, well have to do that. Unfortunately, its an action thats necessitated by the level of service provided by the federal and provincial governments. Taxpayers always say that, We pay taxes and it goes to the First Nation communitiesand the taxpayer does have a right to be upset, added Chief McPherson, noting that allocations for every status Indian amounts to $20,000$22,000 per capita every year. On Couchiching, that would amount to $42 million a year, he explained. But the last financial agreement with Indian Affairs saw the band receiving a little over $6 million each yearof which 90 percent goes towards education. At this point, the band council has yet to determine what the exact toll at the booth will be. But Chief McPherson said it will be comparable to what the private company charges for crossing the international bridge, and with boat launching fees comparable to what the Town of Fort Frances charges at the Sorting Gap Marina. Were not being radical, were not being dissidents, were not being violent, Chief McPherson stressed. Were just asking for the same consideration that private operators have and municipalities have. As for the contaminated soil, only after the residents are relocated will chief and council be willing to participate in further studies of the location, said Chief McPherson. And while only one site currently is being studied for contamination, the full extent of the contamination is still unknown, he warned. We havent done further studies along the lakeshore to the east, towards the Five-Mile area. There were mills in operation in that area, the chief said, pointing to the land where more Couchiching residences and programs are located. The contamination might not be exclusive to Couchiching, he remarked, noting that with the way the water flows, the issue could be impacting the whole district.
in jeopardy over money

More from A1 past, and had hoped to do another fundraiser this year. But those plans have not moved ahead because the town hasnt given them approval yet. Were tied both ways, he remarked. Theyre not giving us funding nor are they expediting a fundraising procedure. As noted above, the FITS committee has applied to the Department of Canadian Heritages Celebrate Canada! grant program, just as it has in the past. Unfortunately, the committee does not find out how much money theyll be getting, if any at all, until literally a day or two before July 1. That doesnt help us significantly at all, said Turvey, adding that fireworks have to be ordered several weeks in advance. As well, any commitment to staging fireworks has to be made right away because, since the passing of Charlie Turgeon, they have to bring in a person from Manitoba whos licensed to set them off. Turvey said the FITS committee will be meeting next week, and within about two weeks should have made a definite decision as to what it will do for Canada Day this year. But he conceded that realistically, at this late date, it is going
Realistically, at this late date, it is going to be very difficult to put on a quality production. Scott T urvey
to be very difficult to put on a quality production. Turvey said he personally finds the possible loss of [July 1] celebrations in a border community to be devastating. At this time, Turvey said the FITS committee needs all the help it can get to try and keep the Fun in the Sun tradition going here. We are at a crisis point, he stressed, adding if theres corporate sponsors or individual sponsors out there, they are encouraged to contact one of the FITS committee members as soon as possible. Realistically, we need to know in the next week to 10 days, Turvey said. Those wanting to help out the Fun in the Sun committee can contact FITS chair Paul Bock (274-5353) or Turvey (2760800), or e-mail fitsff@shaw.ca
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Fort Frances Times

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 5, 2010

www.fortfrances.com

ISSN 0834-6283 PAP No. 07429
Serious response to issues needed: politicians

By Peggy Revell Staff writer
INSIDE
Local federal and provincial politicians say a serious response to solving the longstanding issues with Couchiching First Nation is needed from government in the wake of the bands announcement last week that it plans to put up a toll booth near the west end of the Noden Causeway starting May 21. I think this is an expression of frustration by Couchiching, said Kenora-Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton, stressing the band has given the provincial and federal governments time to respond to the issues at hand.
The band councils decision stems from longstanding issues over compensation for the land which Highway 11 was built upon and what it sees as a failure to take action on the contaminated soil at the former site of the J.A. Mathieu Sawmill dipping pondswhere six residences now sit. Prior to putting up the toll booth, the band said there will be traffic slowdown to hand out pamphlets outlining the reason for their actions. The band also plans to institute a fee to launch boats at the Five-Mile Dock, with proceeds raised going towards both social and economic development projects.
I think the frustration is this. [Couchiching has] tried meeting with officials, they have tried going through all the official channels over and over again on these issues, and they just feel like they are not getting a response, said Hampton, who vowed to do his best to try to get the province to respond to these issues. I think what has to happen is some of the ministers who have charge over some of these issues need to give a serious response. I think the First Nation needs to hear that the issues are going to be addressed and not just sit on the backburner for years because thats whats happened with some
of these issues, added Hampton. Theyve been on the backburner for years, and the community wants to see if theres going to be a response. Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty hopes cooler heads will prevail when it comes to the planned toll booth. My overwhelming response to it is: lets get something done with all the levels of government, and I think the towns involved, too, so cooler heads can prevail, he remarked. Because once a toll booth goes up, or even an information picket, theres a danger that people on both sides will harden their views
and it will be more difficult to come to a conclusion that benefits everyone in the region. When asked what needs to be done prior to May 21, Rafferty called for the province to get into discussion mode when it comes to issues of the highway. And quite frankly, we have to have some fast action from Health Canada on the rehabilitation of the old mill site, he stressed. Ive seen reports, Ive seen a couple of different reports on the contamination, and quite frankly, I dont know why we havent had any firm action yet. My initial reaction is: why are Please see Serious, A10
Home show called success

The Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce held another successful Home & Leisure Show this past Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Sports Centre, seeing people come out in droves. About 2,500-3,000 people attended the event over the two days.
See story on A2
Bands opt to appeal Point ruling

By Duane Hicks Staff writer The four First Nations involved in the court case over Pithers Point Park are appealing a judges ruling last week that the Town of Fort Frances can continue to maintain it until either ownership finally is determined through the court case or a further order of the court. Couchiching Chief Chuck McPherson said this morning that the plaintiffsCouchiching, Naicatchewenin, Nicickousemenecaning, and Stanjikomingwill appeal the ruling, and that the appropriate parties likely would be notified by the end of today. I wasnt pleased with the initial outcome, Chief McPherson said. Thats one of the reasons we agreed to collectively appeal it. None of the communities were satisfied with that. But Chief McPherson also said he wasnt surprised with the ruling given judicial decisions historically have not been in favour of First Nations. I am disappointed in the tactics the town engaged in, he remarked. Nonetheless, its their prerogative to do it, I guess. We had, in good faith, last year offered them an extension to the [99-year] lease and they, in turn, used that public offer in the courts against us in a negative fashion. So I was disappointed in that. All we ask is that they sit down with us, the chief added. We had said that we would look at the continuation of a lease last year, if there was a fair market value rent paid, and that hasnt occurred. And thats why weve discontinued negotiations with them. There was no money crossing, and $35 [a year] just wasnt going to do it anymore, he argued. Chief McPherson said if a fair market value lease was on the table, negotiations could continue. But in his opinion, the town wants the park but wants someone else to pay for it. The fact that they have got an application in the courts to have all of the unsold, surrendered land in the Agency One reserve declared theirs, thats another tactic that I dont necessarily appreciate, he noted. Its like leasing a car. Once a lease is done, I have to bring it back. I dont automatically own it just because I put gas in it, cleaned Please see Bands, A9 More ways to save: No Mobility Contract No Connection Fee FREE Canadian Roaming
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Trio promoting business plan

Three Fort Frances High School students will be taking their business plan for a funeral home to Ottawa next week to participate in the 10th E-Spirit National Aboriginal Youth Business Plan Competition. Steven Mitchell, Max Calder, and Ryne Strachan will be joining more than 190 youth there on May 11-13.
Rose Bowl winners

Katelyn Shortreed (vocal), Melissa Fletcher (drama), and Ursula Chojko-Bolec (piano) were presented with Rose Bowls for their excellent performances in this years Rainy River District Festival of the Perfoming Arts. The Rose Bowls, along with many other plaques and awards, were handed out during Sunday evenings annual highlights concert at the Townshend Theatre. Peggy Revell photo
See story on B1
Deer control plan Workplace literacy focus at airport submitted of new Transition Centre for MNR approval
By Duane Hicks Staff writer By Duane Hicks Staff writer The Town of Fort Frances has applied for funding under Transport Canadas Capital Assistance Program for perimeter fencing to keep deer away from the airport. But if the town doesnt receive funding for the 5,800-metre long, eight-foot high, specially-designed fixed-knot fence, which would cost about $300,000, airport superintendent Bill Caul said Friday he has developed an action plan for this year, which he submitted last week to the Ministry of Natural Resources for approval. The action plan is as follows: The town will apply to the MNR to have a deer harassment permit in place by July 1 in order to install motion detection noise equipment at the main deer trails near the airport. The equipment will be supplied by the MNR. By Aug. 1, the town will have applied to have a deer removal permit in place so the town can implement a cull if and when deer become a major concern to aircraft. They will use the Fort Frances Sportsmens Club, which has volunteered its members to bow hunt the deer for the cull. The culling area will be expanded to include the rock ridges to the north of the runway. The town also will allow Fort Frances Sportsmens Club members to hunt on airport property during bow hunting season in October. Bow hunters will have to follow procedures established by the town to ensure safe activities on the airport. A public meeting was held March 30 at the airport to gain input regarding the deer problem there. The sportsmens club suggested the archery cull, which has been conducted at airports elsewhere to good effect. At that time, Caul said the Fort Frances Airport has been experiencing problems due to the increasing deer population, adding 2009 was the worst year for deer Please see Deer, A10 The new NCDS Transition Centre held its grand opening here Friday, and the staff want the public to know theyre ready to assist unemployed and laid-off workers, the under-employed, those preparing to write apprenticeship or GED exams, or others hoping to return to post-secondary training to get the skills they need. Centre manager/co-ordinator Cathy Emes said the need for a transition centre has been evident for some time, and identified both locally and provincially. Emes recalled theres been two local Business Retention and Expansion studies conducted in the past five years. In both of them, employers asked for something like this for their staff, and now we have that, she noted. As well, dozens of representatives from various agencies attended a regional planning meeting organized by NCDS last July, and at that time also identified the need for workshops and training available both during the day and in the evening. Then in February, NCDS was
Rookie leads Muskie charge

Colton Spicer blazed through the competition in Winnipeg over the weekend. The rookie on the Muskie boys soccer team lit up opposing squads, tallying four goals during the annual St. JohnsRavenscourt tournament to help the black-and-gold capture the consolation title while being named to the tourney all-star squad.
See story on C1
awarded a $403,000 contract by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities to improve local accessibility and training focusing on the needs of employers and individuals who wish to improve workplace and essential skills. The Workforce Literacy and Essential Skills programone of 33 in Ontarioreflects the ministrys vision of establishing Ontarians as the most-educated people and highly-skilled workforce in North America. We really, really need a program like this because it is a stepping stone for people who really have no clue what they want to do, but theyre not college ready, said Mike Anderson, president of the NCDS board of directors. Its more than just literacy, he stressed. Theres a life skills component, theres computers. Its going to give them a clearer vision and direction, and get them to that point where they say, I want to finish high school to become Aget them to a point where theyre going to know what they want to do with their life, Anderson added. Emes clarified the NCDS Transition Centre (located at 242 Scott Please see Workplace, A10
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A10 FORT FRANCES TIMES
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Serious response to issues needed

More from A1 the provincial and federal governments so slow to reacting to these issues that, quite frankly, have been longstanding, Rafferty added. Why are the wheels moving so slowly? Rafferty said hes had the opportunity to speak at some length with Indian Affairs minister Chuck Strahl, and also will be speaking to federal Health minister Leona Aglukkaq over the issue. Im quite sure that certainly Chuck Strahl is concerned about the situation, and Ive asked that we all sit down and think about how these actions can be avoided because, quite frankly, its not good for anybody, Rafferty stressed. Its not good for First Nations, and certainly not good for people around here, even if you just look at something like tourism, he remarked, noting the move comes at the beginning of tourism season an industry that already has taken blows with border issues and soon the implementation of the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). Meanwhile, official statements from both the provincial and federal government touted discussion and dialogue when it comes to addressing the issues at hand. The Ontario government is committed to working with First Nations partners and in instances like this, our preferred approach is to enter into discussions and try to find a solution agreeable to all parties, said Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs spokesperson Greg Flood. We believe its important to settle disputes and concerns through positive discussion and proactive relationships, he stressed. A similar response came from Strahls office. Our government is committed to working with the Government of Ontario and the First Nation to resolve this, said Strahls press secretary, Michelle Yao. But while the land issue is still in litigation, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time. I want to reiterate that our government believes that open dialogue is a much more constructive and effective way of resolving this issue, and we encourage all partners to work together to find a solution to this issue, Yao added. In regards to the issue of [the] contaminated soil, I would like to emphasize that the health and safety of the residents of Couchiching First Nation is a priority of this government. INAC and Health Canada officials continue to work with the community to address health issues, she noted. The OPP has declined to comment on the situation to date. Meanwhile, Hampton believes the public should take a wait-andsee approach to the toll booth issue. [Couchiching], if they were all set to put up a toll booth, they would have announced the toll booth one day and put it up the next, he said. The fact [is] theyve allowed a fair amount of time here for both the federal and provincial governments to come to grips with some of the issues and respond to some of the issues, he reasoned. If somebody says, If we dont hear from the different levels of government, were going to have to do something in three weeks or a month from now, what theyre really saying is: were giving you some time to think about these issues and respond on them, and thats really whats happening here, Hampton added. And Im hopeful that at least on some of these issues, the First Nations will get a serious response from both the federal and provincial government.
Fine Line Art Gallery co-op member Jean Richards decided where to display this Turbo Beaver, which Ray Cameron made of black and gold wire, in anticipation of the opening of its spring art show, Go for Gold, starting with a mix-and-mingle tomorrow (May 6) from 6:30-9 Duane Hicks photo p.m.
Art gallery going for gold

Staff The Fine Line Art Gallery here will hold a mix-and-mingle to open its spring art show, Go for Gold, tomorrow (May 6) from 6:30-9 p.m. In what has become an annual tradition for the gallery, located at 529 Mowat Ave., the mix-andmingle kicks off the gold-themed exhibit that will run through May and into June. There will be refreshments, door prizes, and a Peoples Choice award. Admission is $8, and everyone is welcome. Fine Line co-op member Jean Richards noted the gallery has been receiving a variety of entries from local artists, some of which will be for sale and others for exhibition only. These range from paintings, stained glass, photographs, and pottery to the more unusualairplanes made of wire and jewellery made with dried Yukon Gold potatoes. All of them will, in some way, represent the gold theme. Gold follows the alternating pattern of colours and objects/ concepts as themes for the annual spring show. Last years theme was Thread while in 2008 it was Think Green. These were preceded by Abracadabra in 2007, Seeing Red (2006), Cup and Dish (2005), Out of the Blues (2004), Wild n Woolly (2003), and Shades of Yellow (2002). For more info, call the gallery at 274-2242.
Workplace literacy focus of new centre

More from A1 St.) and NCDS Career Works and Skills and Employment Source (300 Scott St.) are not the same thing, but the agencies do work hand-in-hand. [NCDS Career Works] is an employment centre, and at this point there are two different programs being delivered from that employment centre, she explained. Career Works, who work with the youth, and Skills and Employment, who work with adults, particularly those in the EI system. They help them with job searching, rsum writing, cover letters, and things like that, Emes noted. Even there, we saw people who were technologically challenged, she added. A lot of them just did not have the computer skills that they need, and computers are a part of literacy. Emes said the NCDS Transition Centre is for people who are not ready to go on to post-secondary education, or maybe dont want to but still need the skills to be effective in todays workplace. Were working with people trying to pass their GED, with employees trying to upgrade their skills, with people that are preparing to write apprenticeship exams, she remarked. Were not going to have structured classes, she stressed. Its when you can come, and thats the reason were open from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. If youre working full-time, you still have the ability to come in the evening. Emes noted the NCDS Transition Centre already has been working closely with NCDS Career Works and Skills and Employment Source. Were getting referrals from them, she said. Its to say, Your skills arent at a level where they need to be for the career you would like to have. Send them down here. Well work with them. When theyre ready to write that rsum and cover letter, then theyll go back there. We work very closely together. We still go to weekly meetings. Were a team, added Emes. It would have been perfect if we could have been attached to them, but there was no room. Emes said the NCDS Transition Centre, which employs five people (including three instructors to ensure one is on the premises at all times), has been open since early April. And so, far its been going very well. Were very pleased with the number of people that we already have as customers, Emes remarked, adding that being in downtown Fort Frances is the perfect location for them. Theres lots of foot traffic and its easy access for people, she reasoned. The NCDS Transition Centre helps people learn and upgrade computer skills, writing skills, math skills, and more. These services are free of charge to residents of Rainy River District. Services are delivered in a confidential, respectful, and comfortable setting. For more information, drop by NCDS Transition Centre or Cathy Emes at 274-2666.
Deer plan at airport submitted for MNR approval

More from A1 hes ever seen there. One private aircraft hit a deer in late fall while it was landing, causing serious damage to the plane. In a second incident, a Bearskin airplane hit a deer with its landing gear while it was taking off (although there was no damage to the aircraft). Caul said Friday that the deer already have started to come back this spring. Theyre roaming around, he noted. This week theyve seemed to have slackened off. I dont know why, but prior to that, they were here every morning, every night, he remarked. Airport staff has increased the frequency of runway inspections prior to landings to try to ensure deer, or any other animals, are not on the runway when planes come in. Between them and seagulls, theres always something, Caul chuckled.
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Fort Frances Times

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Band sets fees for toll booth

INSIDE
To open Friday at noon

By Peggy Revell and Duane Hicks Staff writer Couchiching First Nations plan to erect a toll booth on Highway #11 just west of the Noden Cause-
way is still a go for this Friday at noon. For now, the band was to begin a traffic slowdown today (Wednesday), where information will be handed out to passing vehicles outlining Couchichings reasoning for setting up the toll booth, which includes what it sees as a failure to be properly compensated for the land Highway #11 is built upon and failure to remedy the soil contamination from the former J.A. Mathieu sawmill where six residences now sit. Since first announcing in late April its intentions to set up the
toll booth, the provinces only offer to the community was from the province to put up some street signs, street lights, and possibly a bike path along Highway #11, noted Couchiching Chief Chuck McPherson. Those were maybesthose werent definite offers, echoed Coun. Eugene McPherson. Just today [Tuesday], we got a call from the deputy ministers office asking if wed like to have some serious discussionsthat begs the question, what were the discussions before, if they werent serious? wondered Chief McPherson.
Meanwhile, there has been little to no response from Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, the pair noted. The only response or communication received from the federal ministers office was that [local MP] John Rafferty [who] had sent two letters, along with Diane Kelly, the chief of Grand Council Treaty #3, asking Minister Strahl to convene a meeting with my council and myselfand they acknowledged that they received those letters, Chief McPherson said. Other than that acknowledgement, nothing.
Meanwhile, the fee structure for the toll booth was approved at a band council meeting last night. Councillors opted to set the toll at $1 per passenger vehicle and $10 for commercial vehicles, with tolls to be collected for those travelling in both directions. Monthly passes also will be available for $25 for passenger vehicles and $100 for commercial ones. Passes can be purchased at the C&C Complex and Great Bear, and tomorrow will be sold at the Couchiching multi-use facility. All emergency vehicles, such as Please see Band, A5
New command unit unveiled

Versatility is the key word when describing the Fort Frances Fire and Rescue Services new emergency mobile command unit, which was publicly showcased yesterday outside the fire hall. Fire chief Gerry Armstrong said the unit is a welcome addition to the force.
First Nations, mining company ink agreement

By Peggy Revell Staff writer Local First Nations signed a memorandum of understanding with mining exploration company Rainy River Resources on Thursday afternoon to mark a mutually-beneficial relationship between them. I see this as something that we need in the district, and continue to make it happen, Rainy River First Nations Chief Jim Leonard said at the signing ceremony, which took place at the companys gold exploration project site in Blackhawk. And I hope that everyone can benefit, not only the First Nations people but people from the surrounding area. Were going to need a lot of help, and were here and were neighbours, he added. Representatives from Rainy River Resources and several First Nations that are members of the Fort Frances Chiefs Secretariat were on hand to sign the MOU. As part of it, the company has agreed to inform the First Nations of its exploration proposals and timetables, and conduct all exploration activities in an environmentally-responsible manner. Employment opportunities and the chance to bid on contracts also were highlighted in the memorandum, as well as plans to hire a full-time First Nation Engagement Specialist, who will serve as a liaison between the company and First Nations. Rainy River Resources also will begin working with the First Nations to develop and implement an Impact and Benefits Agreement. Thursdays signing ceremony began with elder Willie Wilson saying a blessing and some opening remarks. From what I know about the document, its going to provide opportunities not only for our First Nations people but for people in the whole district, noted Wilson. And I think that theres opportunity here that should come as a result of this. We started off with some fools gold first, he remarked. Eventually thats going to become real, I hope. To the chiefs and the communities of the secretariat, the seven areas that we could have some potential impact, too, were really looking forward to this, working with you, said Raymond Threlkeld, president and CEO of Rainy River Resources Ltd. He also thanked the local staff of the company for their efforts to make the MOU come together. And this is just a start, this memorandum of understanding, Threlkeld stressed. This memorandum of understanding will lead us farther on to [a] true impact Please see First, A5
See story on A3
Fish fry held at new venue

Located at a new venue, the 40th-annual Manitou Fish Fry was a great success Friday. This was the first time the fish fry was hosted at the new pow-wow grounds at Rainy River First Nations. I think it went well because of more facilities and it went smoothly, said RRFN Chief Jim Leonard.
See story on B1
Underpass closure extended to May 29

Staff The Portage Avenue underpass will be closed eight days longer than expected due to an unforeseen delay in construction. The underpass originally was to be closed to through traffic for 10 days in order to install piping in the Third and Fifth Street intersections, but that has changed, Operations and Facilities manager Doug Brown reported yesterday afternoon. Initially, town records indicated the presence of a storm sewer manhole in the middle of the Third Street intersection, but further field investigation revealed this was not the case. As a result, special storm sewer fittings had to be ordered and manufactured. These fittings are scheduled to arrive at the site next Tuesday (May 25). Brown noted the contractor has advised the town that upon receipt of these storm sewer fittings, the work can be completed by Saturday, May 29 (weather permitting). The Town of Fort Frances apologizes for this eight-day delay in the opening of the underpass to vehicular traffic, stated a press release from the town. The town understands the public frustration over the closures due to the reconstruction of Portage Avenue, including the underpass, it noted. In closing, the Town of Fort Frances would like to thank you for your patience and understanding in this matter as it helps to ensure the project can proceed in a safe and effective manner. Previous arrangements with regards to emergency services will continue during this extended closure. Vehicles accessing the north end of town must continue to use McIrvine Road crossing in the west end. Pedestrian traffic, however, will continue to have access through the underpass during the construction.
Lakers unveil rst signings

The newest member of the Fort Frances Lakers knows a thing or two about winning championships the hard way. Brett Wur, who officially signed with the team on Sunday at the Memorial Sports Centre, helped his Selkirk Fishermen to a Keystone Junior Hockey League (Junior B) title earlier this spring.
Alyssa Chiasson, front, Kaitlyn Chiasson, Mikayla Chiasson, and their uncle, John Storm, climbed the stairs of the relocated and refurbished lookout tower here Saturday. The tower, Hallett, and Sorting Gap Marina all opened for the season on Friday, and so far have been quite popular. Duane Hicks photo
Heritage sites off to busy start

By Duane Hicks Staff writer The relocated and refurbished Hallett and lookout tower along the La Verendrye Parkway opened Friday and have been quite busy so far. Marina operator Meagan Berry said the sites saw about 50 visitors on Saturday, and every other day have drawn 15 or more people. The combined lure of the new attractions, the sunny, warm weather and availability of ice cream at the marina, has meant plenty of business for the Sorting Gap Marina lately, added Berry, who noted, It was one of our best opening weekends. Some of those who toured the sites in the first few days shared their thoughts on the waterfront attractions. I think its sweet, said Dustin Melrose just after coming down from the lookout tower Monday afternoon. Its really good for exercise, noted Karen Jensen. I like it, she added. You can see a lot of the townyou can even see how deep the water is from up there. You can see the Point over there, even, echoed Melrose. Jim Engelman and his six-yearold son, Colton, visited the sites Please see Heritage, A5
See story on C1
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Band sets fees for toll booth

More from A1 police, fire, and ambulance, will be exempt from the toll, as will be school buses. First Nations members with a status card also will be exempt, which includes status First Nations from elsewhere such as the United States (the status card must belong to a passenger who is in the vehicle). Couchiching band members also may apply to get an exemption for vehicles owned by immediate family members who are non-status. An exemption application will be available online and at the Couchiching band office. The fee for launching a boat at the Five-Mile Dock has not been decided yet. While band council has approved these tolls last night, these amounts will be up for final approval at a Couchiching community meeting slated for this evening. Well try to achieve consensus, Chief McPherson said about what that meeting will entail, noting if a large number of community members disagree with the chosen amounts, council will revisit its decision. Fort Frances Mayor Roy Avis said hes concerned about the various ways the toll booth will impact Fort Frances and the surrounding area. I think it will really affect the commercial sector in our municipality and throughout the whole district, he warned. I strongly believe it will become quite contentious, in that it will put family against family. Theres so much inter-marriage in this area, he added. I hope it doesnt get to that. Mayor Avis said he has written a letter to provincial Aboriginal Affairs minister Chris Bentley and has met with Chief McPherson regarding the toll booth, and expressed his concerns. It is a provincial issue and it is a federal government issue, but as a municipality we are very concerned, and we hope it can get resolved, he remarked. Since first announcing plans for the toll booth in late April, there has been tremendous support from band members who attended the first community meeting on the matter, said Chief McPherson. There were some concerns about how they were going to be received in neighbouring communities, how kids were going to be treated in schools, he conceded. But for the most part, we think that common sense is going to prevail and the people of the Town of Fort Frances and neighbouring communities, for the most part, are sensible, logical people and theyll see that its a cause worth fighting for. Meanwhile, the duration of the toll booth will be for as long as it takes for solutions for both of the issues, Chief McPherson vowed. Talking to people in the district and thatthe sad part is, those people that come to me and say they have mixed emotions about this, those people dont understand the true story of whats going on, Coun. McPherson. Its not a fight between us and them, its a fight between those governments. All were asking for is the truth. Tell us the truth for a change. Simple, simple request, he stressed. We want to stress the point that its not a race issue, echoed Chief McPherson. Its non-aggressive, its non-confrontational, and the whole initiative is to help Couchiching, and its just claiming that which is ours. Were trying to stress a point that the government isnt living up to their obligations, he added. If theyre not going to do it, then were going to have to take the responsibility for it, and with that responsibility theres some fiscal costs, and we dont have those monies to do it. And we have to generate the monies to do that somehow. Many people have come forward to talk about the issue, noted band manager Smokey Bruyere, especially the ministers for local churches who want more information and understanding of the issue so they can discuss it with their congregations. People who come in to ask, people who phone, were very courteous to everybody that calls, explaining what the situation is and asking them to call the MPPs and MPs, the ministers, stressed Bruyere. The band also will be posting updates and information at it website at www.tollboothinitiative.com
Representatives from member bands of the Fort Frances Chiefs Secretariat, along with Rainy River Resources CEO Raymond Threlkeld (second from right), signed a memorandum of understanding Thursday afternoon concerning First Nations inPeggy Revell photo volvement with the companys gold exploration in the Blackhawk region.
First Nations, mining company ink agreement

More from A1 benefits agreement that will further define our relationship. Weve come off with a good start, he continued. Our relationship with Chief Leonard has been excellent, and weve had very frank and not-so-easy discussions at times. But I think our friendship [means] were able to sit down and speak to each other very openly. I think that we hope that in the end that we see this really improve the community and all the communities, echoed Chapple Coun. Rick Neilson, who spoke on behalf of the township at Thursdays ceremony, stressing the importance of making sure everyone has an opportunity to be involved and benefit from the project. I think that its really good that First Nations [are] involved in this way, Coun. Neilson added. Their culture has led them to the point of really viewing the environment as where we come from, and I think that that is a very, very important element to have in this endeavour, he stressed. The other point I would like to make, from the Municipality of Chapple, is that we want to be informed and want to know whats happening, Coun. Neilson said. We want to know how we can make it happen better and how we can plan to make things work for this endeavour. As part of the pending Impact and Benefits Agreement, which will be developed by Rainy River Resources and the involved First Nations, provisions to be developed include: the relationship between the parties and the impact and benefits of the First Nations communities and their traditional lands; a process which sets out the requirements of notice and consultation during the development, construction, and operation phase of the Rainy River Resources project; a process that will enable the First Nations communities to access information to satisfy themselves that the mining activities which are carried out within their traditional territory comply with relevant federal and provincial legislation, including compliance with environmental legislation; First Nations rights with respect to access to, and maintenance of, their traditional territory without adversely affecting the companys continuing operations; the identification by the First Nations of registered traplines and sensitive sites having significance to the communities or individuals within the communities, so that the company can avoid and protect such sites to the extent reasonably possible; the identification of the training needs and human resources capacity of the First Nations communities, including employment, business development, investment opportunities, and other related enterprises both parties may see fit to include; the identification of potential sources and responsible agencies to work towards the establishment of a social-economic fund for the use and benefit of the First Nations communities, with funding to be related, in a predictable and reasonable way, to the economic scale and value of the exploitation of the resource identified in the area designated as the Rainy River project area; and a process for resolving disputes or disagreements arising out of the terms and provisions of the interpretation of the IBA. The seven First Nations communities that signed the MOU included Rainy River First Nations, Naicatchewenin, Mitaanjigamiing (formerly Stanjikoming), Couchiching, Nigigoonsiminikaaning (formerly Nicickousemenecaning), Lac La Croix, and Seine River.
Heritage sites off to busy start

More from A1 Saturday. And, at Coltons request, came back again Monday. I liked every part of the big boat, said Colton. I am impressed they opened up the Hallett and all the rooms in it, added Jim Engelman. Colton noted the lookout tower had too much stairs, later clarifying that it made my dad tired, but not me. He ran up there. I had to tell him to stop and wait for me, said Engelman, noting the tower had a nice scenic view. But it could use a flag, and maybe some lights inside so it also could be a nighttime attraction. Generally speaking, Engelman said he thought the sites were a good idea, but hopes the waterfront will be developed further down the road. The only bad thing is you have a nice area and you dont have a restaurant, he remarked. Its supposed to be a tourist attraction, but theres no place for the tourists to come to and sit and enjoy themselves, besides maybe having an ice cream cone. You want to try and attract them to stay here, he stressed. Theres lots they could do down here, Engelman noted. I keep thinking of Kenora . . . its beautiful. I think theres more they could be doing here, he added, saying another feature that would do well here is a loonie bear like they have at the Kenora harbourfront (the Community Foundation Loonie Bear is a five-ton bear which people put money into and take their photos with, with proceeds going to Kenora-area charities). Admission to the heritage sites is available at the Sorting Gap Marina or Fort Frances Museum. The cost is for $3.50 for adults, $2.50 for seniors and children 12 and under, or a maximum family fee of $10.50. Paying admission provides access to the Hallett, lookout tower, and the Fort Frances Museum. Visitors are given a time sensitive tag with an access code that is changed daily.
A look behind the issues prompting the toll booth

By Peggy Revell Staff writer The first of the two main issues surrounding the bands action is compensation for the 33.9 acres of Couchiching FN land which Highway #11 was built upon decades ago. The province and federal Department of Indian Affairs originally negotiated an exchange of the 44.5 acres within whats historically known as the two-chain shore allowance, Chief Chuck McPherson had explained in a previous interview with the Times. But the band says this original survey of the two-chain shore allowance land was done erroneously because the surveyor commissioned to survey the neighbouring Agency #1 reserve back in 1876 included land that already was part of the Couchiching reserve. As well, dam construction in the early 1900s meant only nine acres of the original 44.5 acres exists. The other reason for the toll booth comes from the federal government not yet having relocated the six families whose residences are situated on the identified contaminated site of the former J.A. Mathieu sawmill dipping ponds. The whole approach from Health Canada and First Nations, Inuit Health Branchtheyre quite flexible in changing their standards, said Chief McPherson, referring to all of the testing and reports concerning the high levels of dioxins, furans, and other chemicals that have been identified at the site. On a scale of one to 10, if four was the danger zone, and we were at a six, well, they elevated it to eight so we were under that health standard. Its not a hazard anymore. A report earlier this month, written by hired consultant Dr. Naz, outlined how the identified chemicals have been linked to the original site INAC had leased to the sawmill, and as such INAC has a contractual obligation to restore the site by remediation/clean-up of contaminated properties using the Best Available Technology [BAT]. The report also states concentrations of dioxins and furans at the various residences and tested locations exceed the human health/ Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment criteria. Under the current circumstances, the overriding objective is to reduce the exposure to levels as low as reasonably practicable, the report stated. This can only be achieved by restricting access to the contamination to authorized personnel and/ or by remediating the soil to [below the given criteria]. Thus conducting further investigation while the residents are still living on contaminated soil cannot be justified due to the extreme toxicity of the PCDD-PCDF mixture and the continued exposure of residents. Remediationwhich the report said would require full body protection for those doing the work, and consists of excavating and stockpiling the contaminated soil is a process by which residences still would need to be relocated due to safety and health, the report recommended. With respect to an update on the current situation at Couchiching, INAC and Health Canada officials continue to work with the community to address issues related to the contaminated site, INAC spokeswoman Susan Bertrand said in a May 18 e-mail to the Times concerning the current status of the contaminated site. INAC will continue to provide funding for the site assessment to identify the extent of the contamination and to develop a remedial action plan, she noted. First Nations are responsible for tendering, selecting a contractor, and overseeing implementation of these projects, Bertrand added. Accordingly, the First Nation would be best positioned to provide further information on the site assessment as it is managing this project. INAC is currently awaiting the final site assessment report from the First Nations consultant, Bertrand noted.
Alice Cupp and Talon Cantor checked out the galley in the Hallett on Saturday. Whether it is the engine room or the captains cabin, all areas of the ship are open for people to see.
Duane Hicks photos
The Sorting Gap, as well as the Hallett and tower sites, are open daily from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. (depending on weather). Children under 14 must be accompanied by a caregiver age 16 or older. Appropriate footwear is required. Visitors also are asked to take care and use caution as surfaces are uneven and platforms are steep and high. The Fort Frances Museum, meanwhile, is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. until Oct. 10 (hours subject to change). In related news, a multi-day celebration is planned in conjunction with Tourism Week to mark the grand opening of Phase II of the Heritage Tourism Project. On Friday, June 4, there will be a reception at the Ontario Tourism Information Centre at 10 a.m., followed by a walk down the wayfinding route (from the border to the waterfront via Victoria Avenue. This will be followed by a grandopening ceremony at the lookout tower at noon, followed by an international tug-of-war at 12:30 p.m. and a Fun in the Sun fundraiser barbecue. Also at the waterfront, Fred Scheers Lumberjack Shows will perform at 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 7 p.m., featuring log-rolling, cross-cut sawing, pole-climbing, axe-throw-
The lookout tower is now open to visitors, providing an opportunity for people to get a scenic view of the waterfrontand a little exercise.
ing, and more. Back on Scott Street, a new exhibit at the museum focusing on lumber camps will open while work by local artists will be on display at downtown businesses. There also will be art activities at the museum, coinciding with a visit from Community Arts and Heritage Education Program coordinator Lila Cano. Museum curator Pam Cain said other groups interested in holding events during the celebration should let her know by calling 274-7891 or e-mailing pcain@ fort-frances.com Then the annul fly-in, drive-in barbecue is slated for Saturday, June 5 at the Fort Frances Airport. At the museum, there will be a workshop about grant writing with Cano on Saturday morning, followed by some sort of event to further promote the What Hooks You Here? rug-hooking project. Finally, an afternoon paddle on the upper river is scheduled for Sunday, June 6. Residents are invited to come out with their canoes and paddles (the town also will have a limited supply of them available through the recreation program). For more information, contact the Fort Frances Museum at 2747891 or via e-mail at ffmuseum@ fort-frances.com
Fort Frances Times

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 26, 2010

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ISSN 0834-6283 PAP No. 07429
Toll booth subject of praise, threats: chief

By Peggy Revell Staff writer
INSIDE
Couchiching First Nation has received everything from praise to threats after following through on its controversial plan to set up a toll booth on Highway #11 at the west end of the Noden Causeway late Friday afternoon. Weve had a number of wellwishers. Some people said that we should have done this a long time ago. Some people actually gave tips, said Chief Chuck McPherson, referring to the response from mo-
torists who have passed through the toll booth, which the band says will stay up until the federal and provincial governments adequately address compensation for the land Highway #11 sits upon and the identified contaminated soil at the former J.A. Mathieu sawmill site. But on the other side of the coin, weve had people that have made a number of derogatory remarks, mostly racist in nature, noted Chief McPherson. And I had hoped that it wouldnt get to that point of bringing race into it, he added, admitting that
while that is their freedom of speech, he would hope people could express their disagreement in a more civil nature. If theres any violence, its not going to be started by the membership of Couchiching, Chief McPherson vowed, recounting how at one point a person had suggested bringing in warrior societies and council replied that if that happened, they would remove the booth themselves. Because thats not what were looking for, he stressed. Im disappointed that some
people have to make threatening remarks, racist remarks, because when all is said and done, were not going anywhere, were going to continue to live here. The people of Fort Frances are going to continue to live here, and we have to get along. Weve been telling [community members that] its not personal unfortunately, its based on this toll booth being here, to try as best you can not to internalize those things, to be strong, the cause is bigger than any one of us, said Coun. Sarah Mainville about how the
community is dealing with threats, and the supportive way the community has set up alongside the toll booth. I think that our resolve strengthens when we come here, she noted. Were using our spirituality a lot to strengthen what were doing. The older people here, the communication between the youth and the elders, its strengthening our resolve to continue, to fight for those things, those issues, to be resolved and negotiate a just settlement. Please see Toll, A5
Canyon to headline FFCBC

The Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship thinks country star George Canyon is one good friend. The two-time Juno Awardwinner will headline the entertainment lineup at this years tournament, taking the stage at the Ice For Kids Arena on Friday, July 23.
See story on A10
Council grills OPP on toll booth

By Duane Hicks Staff writer With the Couchiching toll booth at the forefront of many residents minds, Fort Frances council served up a slew of questions for OPP detachment commander Insp. John Kendrick at last nights meeting. Our highways been blockaded on the reserve since May 21, said Coun. Ken Perry. Its an illegal act, and Id like to know what the OPP plan on doing about it to correct the problem? Insp. Kendrick replied the OPP wants to maintain the peace and protect the public. Any complaints that are received will be investigated, with follow-up and appropriate response taken sometime afterwards. Our goal right now is to keep the highway open, to protect the peace, he stressed. And anything that occurs after that will be a measured response. Coun, Andrew Hallikas asked what advice could Insp. Kendrick give to motorists approaching the toll booth. Because it is an obstruction on the highway, motorists should slow down and proceed with caution, he answered. As people approach the toll booth, they have to make a personal decision, Insp. Kendrick added. Its an individual, personal decision whether or not to pay the toll. The OPP cant comment on what action will be taken or provide advice further on a matter that is being dealt with at higher levels of government. Its a continuous, ongoing thing at the present time. Really, who is calling the shots? Who is making the decision as to how the OPP will react to various circumstances that could occur at that toll booth? wondered Coun. Hallikas. Ultimately, for the OPP, Commissioner Julian Fantino will make the decision about how we react, and that will be based on his conversation with other provincial parties, other provincial agencies, said Insp. Kendrick. Theyre working actively now to address a problem, and were asking the publics patience while this dialogue goes on, he added, noting the situation is something new and the OPP wants to make sure its response is measured and correct. Coun. Sharon Tibbs asked if the toll booth is an illegal action, to Please see Council, A5
Dog walk all set to go

As part of a national fundraising campaign, the Voyageur Lions and the Fort High Leo Club are planning their fifth Purina Walk for Dog Guides here this Sunday (May 30) at Pithers Point Park. Intended to raise money for the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides training facility in Oakville, Ont., the walk gets underway at 1 p.m., with registration starting at noon.
Local trucker Scott Stafford stopped to speak with Holly Cogger, who was among the first to work at the Couchiching toll booth once it was set up late Friday afternoon on Highway #11 just west of the Noden Causeway. Some motorists, like Peggy Revell photo Stafford, have been refusing to pay the toll.
Most feeling bullied by toll booth: trucker

By Peggy Revell Staff writer With the Couchiching toll booth now in place, many people are facing the experience of a daily commute through the siteand a decision as to whether or not they will pay the $1 toll. Those working at the toll booth have been courteous, noted one Reef Point resident, although going through it feels like being in a zoo with everyone watching from along the side of the highway. I think its kind of a dangerous set-up, the man said. I dont like the way its being done but other than that, theyre not forcing you to pay, its optional. Other than slowing the traffic down a bit, its fine, he added, reiterating that those who have been working at the toll booth have been very courteous and he has been the same back to them in returndespite not paying the toll. My feelings are is that I dont think they [the band] should include us, he explained. [Including us is] not going to help them resolve their situation. Theyre just making it hard for us. The man is very much so hoping the situation will be resolved, adding that would be a godsend if they figured to do that. Another resident of Rocky Inlet Road said she is surprised the toll booth went up since she hoped an agreement between Couchiching
See story on B1
I dont see any benefit in the First Nations using the general public as fodder in their argument with the government. Scott Stafford
and the federal and provincial governments would have been made beforehand. Each time that weve [crossed], weve just handed over our loonie, and theyve been very polite and said thank you for that, she said. But after five trips and $10, she admitted she is upset and worried the toll booth will become a permanent fixture on the highway. The woman has decided she no longer will pay the toll, like other friends she has spoken to, although she added that having friends on Couchiching, she respects where the band members are coming from and are sympathetic to what has been happeningwhich is why she had paid the toll to begin with. I think the most important thing is that cooler heads prevail and that in the law, that they come to some agreement thats going to work for everybody, thats fair to everyone, she stressed. And fairs important, too, because they have to realize that there are limits to what can be demanded, too. I really wish they could in some lawful manner, within the law, get together and settle this, she continued. I am upset, and I think most of my friends and people out here [are, too], she noted encouraging the Couchiching chief and council to sit down and negotiation a settlement with government. It is harassment for the general public, and I think most people are feeling bullied by it, echoed Scott Stafford, a local logging truck operator who crosses the Noden Causeway about four times a day and 20 times a week. I know for sure if my wife was to drive through there, that she would really feel intimidated by it. Like, I dont think she would feel that she had enough strength or whatever to refuse paying the toll. Although he stops each time at the toll booth, Stafford said he has refused to pay so far. [Its] just on a matter of principle, he explained. I dont believe I should be paying twice to drive on a provincial highway when Ive already licensed my commercial vehicle to use that highway. Stafford noted this principle is the same even after the bands reduction of the commercial vehicle
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See story on C1
toll from $10 to $1 per crossing. I would just like the word spread to everybody that Im passing through unhindered without having to pay, he said, adding he wishes the band would be more upfront with the fact that they arent going to force people to pay. After passing through without paying the toll, Stafford admitted he has received a threatening anonymous phone call, which the OPP currently is investigating. But he still will be going through the toll booth without paying. If Im asked to pay $40 a day to do my [job], in my line of work, $40 a day is far more than what it costs to even feed my family, Stafford argued. Im a 32-year-old self-employed father of four, with a brand new mortgageweve just moved to the outskirts of Fort Frances to get closer to work, and now I see this as another obstacle that I have to deal with to support my family. I was hoping that reason would prevail, he said about his reaction when the toll booth first was announced. I dont see any benefit in the First Nations using the general public as fodder in their argument with the government. I dont see where they feel that that will gain anything as far as a neighbour relationship goesto use your neighbour as fodder in your argument doesnt seem right to me, he remarked.
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As the first vehicles went past the newly-erected toll booth late Friday afternoon, members of Couchiching Chief Chuck McPherson and Coun. Dan Mainville (not pictured) were the first Couchiching First Nation lined the side of Highway #11 to applaud those who opted to pay to step into the toll booth and start collecting tolls from passing vehicles late Friday afterthe $1 toll. Band members did not impede drivers who chose not to do so. noon.
Toll booth subject of praise, threats

More from A1 Its an amazing communitythe community has really come together around [it], Coun. Mainville remarked. We had a meeting on Sunday and they resoundingly said to continue fighting, to continue the fight, she noted. The cause is worthy of the disruptions and well protect each other, and thats what weve been doing. In the meantime, the toll booth remains, with a charge of $1 for all vehicles. The band is offering a monthly pass of $25 available at the booth or the band office (current passes combine both the months of May and June). While some motorists have paid the toll, others have opted to drive through without paying a cent. In a press release issued yesterday, Couchiching chief and council stated they will not impede motorists unwilling to pay the toll. However, they support the application of Section 30 of the Indian Act which states, A person who trespasses on a reserve is guilty of an offence and liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding $50 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding one month, or to both. Meanwhile, the OPP continues to monitor the toll booth area, with OPP officers present to ensure there is a safe and orderly flow of traffic. The OPP recognizes the need to balance individual rights and freedoms with the need to maintain public peace and order, OPP Cst. Anne McCoy said in an e-mail to the Times yesterday about how the police are approaching the situation. As police officers, we will utilize our police discretion as a valid and appropriate approach to deescalate situations. The primary role of the OPP is to keep the peace and ensure public safety, and as such the event has remained peaceful, she added. There are many actions the police are taking to approach the matters at hand. Cst. McCoy said the proper exercise of police discretion should not be confused with a lack of enforcement, noting that officers actively are investigating unlawful acts. But we ask the public to recognize patience is required to handle the matter as public safety is the priority. Her e-mail also noted the OPP is not in a position to resolve the underlying issues. We appreciate the public may have many questions and we acknowledge frustrations, she wrote. Please note our approach has been professional and measured, as officers recognize the matter is very complex and includes many legislative authorities who are currently reviewing the issues. When there are traffic delays, they are minimal, the OPP also stated. The Fort Frances detachment of the OPP has open lines of communication and a good working relationship with chief and council of Couchiching First Nation and the mayor and council of the Town of Fort Frances, police also remarked. Our Provincial Liaison Team is working with the Couchiching
Its an amazing community the community has really come together around [it]. Sarah Mainville
First Nation community, as well as within the Town of Fort Frances, to encourage respectful behaviour and fielding questions from the public. Our Community Services Officer is working to keep the flow of information current and timely to the media, and has been working to relay the messages to our community partners including our schools, businesses and service agencies, police added. As for how long the toll booth will be up, Chief McPherson said that it depends on how the province and federal government responds to the issues behind the bands decision to erect it. We hope to be making some headway, and Ill know later on in the week, he said, noting he and the provincial minister of aboriginal affairs will have a meeting tomorrow (May 27) concerning compensation for the land on which Highway #11 sits. Were going to see what they have to offer and weve got some ideas that were going to present to them, and well see how responsive they are, Chief McPherson said, adding that the band is looking for fair and adequate compensationsomething it hasnt received to date. When it comes to the contaminated soil at the former J.A. Mathieu sawmill site, Chief McPherson said hey have spoken with federal Indian Affairs minister Chuck Strahl, who has indicated that the study period is definitely over and its time for action. He didnt specify what the action is, cautioned Chief McPherson, but noted he also will be meeting with the regional director of INAC tomorrow and that Strahl has committed to meeting the band council the very near future. In terms of progression, were getting to talk to the people that make the decisions, and that looks favourable, said Chief McPherson. Since first going up late Friday afternoon, Chief McPherson, council, and members of the Couchiching community have taken turns manning the toll booth. Im doing it for my children and their children, and to protect our land that we haveits not very much and that worries me, Couchiching band member Daniel Morrisseau said Friday right before the toll booth went up. Morrisseau, a father of four, had volunteered to man the toll booth on Saturday morning. Fearits scary, he said about his feelings of the toll booth going up, noting that if arrested, it would be the first charge hes ever had laid against him, but hes doing it for the community. Its the first time weve ever done this as a community, and I dont know how its going to turn out, he admitted. I dont know how its going to turn out and I hope it turns out good, as peaceful as can be.
Council grills OPP on toll booth

More from A1 which Insp. Kendrick replied, Its a complex issue. It deals with jurisdictional issues, land claim issues, who owns what portion of highway, he explained, adding the OPP has been active in keeping open lines of communication with Couchiching First Nation, as well as meeting with community leaders to try to get out the message that the situation is going to take time before its resolved. We understand that the public is very frustrated, as are the police, but its a process that has to take place, and we want to do it safely, Insp. Kendrick stressed. The public safety is the main thing. Coun. Tibbs said many people are unclear as to whether they should pay the $1 toll, and they should know its an individual decision. You can talk about it being a personal decision you make on your own, she remarked. However, what is happening here is an illegal action in process, and regardless of how were going to carry on to get this thing solved, the bottom line is people are feeling intimidated into doing that they feel obligated to do thatand I dont think they should be feeling that way. It should be clearly stated to the public they are not required to make that payment if they choose not to. Its an individual decision, Coun. Tibbs continued. Are we being policed by the police or policed by the government in this issue? asked Mayor Roy Avis. The term they use is a measured response. What can be done at the present time is being done, replied Insp. Kendrick, noting that until the government leaders come together and decide which route they want to take, the only thing the OPP can do is protect the public and keep the peace to the best of its ability. A lot of people who live in the municipality and the district feel really let down by the OPP on this issue, said Mayor Avis. Thats why I asked that question. Because if your hands are tied, and its the government thats making the response, the criticism is going to the wrong spot. Like any other contentious issue, when people dont know what to do, people turn to the police for answers, acknowledged Insp. Kendrick. And when the answers theyre getting from the police are very structured, which they are in this case because were trying to keep everything calm, they dont get a very good feeling that theyre being well-represented, he admitted. But I can assure you there are many, many police officers around doing many, many different things in order to keep what has occurred over the past several days in the status it currently is, he stressed, noting the OPP will continue to ensure the highway remains open and the public safe until a decision is reached and the OPP will take the necessary actions.
Two OPP officers handed out notices to participants Friday evening, warning them of possible criminal charges that could come if the toll booth continued. Peggy Revell photos
Toll booth drawing outside support

By Peggy Revell Staff writer The toll booth initiative undertaken by Couchiching First Nation is drawing support from beyond its immediate community, including a visit from Grand Council Treaty #3 Ogichidaakwe Diane Kelly yesterday. Im here to support Couchiching First Nation, said Kelly, who took a turn in the booth collecting tolls from passing vehicles. I think its a drastic step that they have to take, and its unfortunate that after all these years, all these decades, that these land issue is still unresolved, she added. I think its unfortunate that we have to put people on the highway, its a safety concern, its a risk, Kelly continued. But I think its an important statement, and I hope that the federal government and the provincial government wake up and start trying to resolve [this] because this isnt the only outstanding thing. Theres numerous claims that still have to be resolved, she stressed. Reaction from other First Nations within Treaty #3 have included support for Couchiching because were all in the same boat when it comes to unresolved land issues, Kelly explained, pointing to the talk about reconciliation of a relationship between aboriginal people and Ontarianssomething of which theres still a lot of work to be done on. I can understand that its an inconvenience to the tourists, as well as the townspeople, but at the same time its been an inconvenience to us, as First Nation people, to have our land issue unresolved, Kelly remarked. So again, lets all work together and try to resolve the situation and reconcile some of the hurt feelings and maybe the misunderstandings because I think a lot of it seems to be misunderstanding. Becoming educated about First Nations issues is one of the things Terry Waboose, deputy grand chief for the Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN), asked the greater community for during his visit to the Couchiching toll booth site yesterday afternoon. Im here basically to support Couchiching and what theyre doing here, which is basically asserting their jurisdiction over their land and trying to call attention to the governments in terms of some of the grievances that they have, noted Waboose, pointing to the issue of land contamination and compensation for the land upon which Highway #11 sits. Couchiching is not unique when it comes to the issues First Nation communities are dealing with with the government, he stressed. NAN itself represents 49 communities within James Bay Treaty #9 and Ontario portions of Treaty #5. Like many other First Nation communities, we do have a lot of unsettled issues with claimsland claims, particularlyand unfortunately what happens is when things arent settled in a timely manner, First Nations, unfortunately, have to resort to these things, Waboose said. While some may disagree with the toll booth, Waboose said its right what Couchiching is doing, and encouraging people to educate themselves when it comes to First Nations issues. A lot of the grievances are historical in nature, but something that should be solved today, he remarked. If they were solved a while ago, you wouldnt have these types of issues, he added, hoping the greater population of Fort Frances should support the community. We are neighbours, he stressed. We want the same things as they want. They want a good education for their children, nice, safe communities, nice clean air, and good environment.
Grand Council Treaty #3 Ogichidaakwe Diane Kelly visited the site of Couchiching First Nations toll booth yesterday to offer her support and take a turn collecting tolls, as did NAN deputy grand chief Terry Waboose.
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Couchiching FN Toll Booth

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