Welcome to TheEcho.ca, your source for local news, weather, information, business, artist and service groups directories and more about Manitouwadge, Ontario, Canada. Proudly brought to you by Manitouwadge Printers Ltd. <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 468x60, created 6/2/10 */ google_ad_slot = "6276332501"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60; //--> </script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><br /> <br /> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: small"><b>(AURORA, ON)</b> &ndash; This Civic Holiday Long Weekend the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) will be working to help ensure that motorists and outdoor enthusiasts have a safe holiday.&nbsp;Officers will continue to focus on &ldquo;the big three&rdquo; causes of injuries on the roads waterways and trails - aggressive driving, drinking and driving and improper use of seatbelts, restraints and floatation devices.&nbsp;</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: small">&nbsp;</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: small">Aggressive driving includes the offences of speeding, following to closely and unsafe lane changes.&nbsp;Off-road and waterway aggressive driving is defined as speeding too fast for conditions and operating vessels and all-terrain vehicles without due care and attention for other users.&nbsp;These offences are the leading causes of serious crashes and fatalities on Ontario&rsquo;s highways, waterways and trails.&nbsp;</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: small">&nbsp;</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: small">Drinking and driving offences continue to be the leading criminal cause of death in Ontario.&nbsp;Throughout the province, R.I.D.E. programs will be set up to target drivers who disrespect others by drinking and driving.&nbsp;The proper use of seatbelts and child restraints will also be a focus as the OPP continues to see preventable injuries and deaths occurring in collisions where occupants are either not wearing seatbelts or are using them improperly.&nbsp;</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: small">&nbsp;</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: small">OPP Commissioner Julian Fantino reminds motorists that collisions and injuries are preventable.&nbsp;&ldquo;Motorists and pleasure craft operators must drive according to conditions and obey the laws.&nbsp;It is sad that emergency services personnel continue to need to respond to these tragedies where someone has needlessly lost their life and family members have to deal with that loss just because basic common sense was replaced by reckless behaviour&rdquo;. </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: small">&nbsp;</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: small">OPP Deputy Commissioner Larry Beechey, Provincial Commander for Traffic Safety reminds everyone that incidents aren&rsquo;t limited to our highways but also occur on our waterways and trails.&nbsp;&ldquo;During the recent Canada Day extra-Long Weekend, 16 people lost their lives on Ontario Highways, trails and waterways.&nbsp;This is why we will be doubling our efforts at enforcement to prevent fatalities this long weekend.&nbsp;Take time to keep each other safe and set a safe example for others.&nbsp;Drive carefully, wear your lifejackets and seatbelts and ask others to do the same.&rdquo;&nbsp;&nbsp; </span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: small">&nbsp;</span></div> <div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt"><span style="font-size: small">STAY FOCUSED, STAT ALERT and STAY SAFE.</span></div> <br /> <span style="color: #999999"><strong><span id="1254320718475S" style="display: none">&nbsp;</span>Advertisement</strong><br /> <!-- saved from url=(0022)http://internet.e-mail --> <meta content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1" http-equiv="Content-Type" /><script language="JavaScript" src="http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/adsheader.js"></script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ var OA_channel = '/theechoca'; // ]]> --> </script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ OA_adjs(28,'echo915c4e5'); // ]]> --> </script><noscript> <a target='_blank' href='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/ck.php?n=echo915c4e5'> <img border='0' alt='' src='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/avw.php?zoneid=28&n=echo915c4e5' /></a> </noscript><br /> </span><br /> <br /> Subscribe to our new online edition. Visit <a href="http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm">http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm</a> to start today. 100% Digital copy of The Echo. <br /> http://www.theecho.ca/OPP-Police-Beat.page?ArticleID=52540 2010-07-30T15:56:58.5858748Z <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 468x60, created 6/2/10 */ google_ad_slot = "6276332501"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60; //--> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><br /><br /><p><img border="1" hspace="10" width="448" height="336" alt="" src="/_mndata/echo/uploaded_images/979341.jpg" /><br /> <strong><span style="font-size: xx-small">Submitted Photo<br /> Volunteer Firefighter Marilyn Tremblett answers playground kids questions about the fire truck.</span></strong><br /> <br /> This weeks theme for the Playground Program was safety. After a visit from the O.P.P. the children were visited by Marilyn Tremblett of the Manitouwadge Fire Department on July 22nd. Marilyn drove the fire truck over to the Recreational Center in full uniform.&nbsp; The 12 children were shown everything that was important about the truck such as the hoses and the sirens.&nbsp; The kids loved climbing all over the truck and had an amazing time with firefighter Marilyn.&nbsp; <br /> <br /> Safety week didn't end there, on July 23rd the children and employees, Jessica Stevens, Felicia Cain and Angele Lamothe, headed over to the Ambulance base and were given a tour by Paramedic Steve Leroux and Cori Recker. The kids thought is was &quot;awesome!&quot;. Steve made sure the kids knew everything about the truck and how each part play a role is saving lives. The kids were allowed to climb around the back of the truck and once again loved the sirens. The kids had a great week and each one was excited to spend that time learning about what Police Officer, Fireman, and Paramedic do in their busy days. Of course they also had a ton of fun with people in professions that they look up to.<br /> &nbsp;</p><br /> <span style="color: #999999"><strong><span id="1254320718475S" style="display: none">&nbsp;</span>Advertisement</strong><br /> <!-- saved from url=(0022)http://internet.e-mail --> <meta content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1" http-equiv="Content-Type" /><script language="JavaScript" src="http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/adsheader.js"></script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ var OA_channel = '/theechoca'; // ]]> --> </script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ OA_adjs(28,'echo915c4e5'); // ]]> --> </script><noscript> <a target='_blank' href='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/ck.php?n=echo915c4e5'> <img border='0' alt='' src='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/avw.php?zoneid=28&n=echo915c4e5' /></a> </noscript><br /> </span> <br /> <br /> Subscribe to our new online edition. Visit <a href="http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm">http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm</a> to start today. 100% Digital copy of The Echo.</span> <br /> http://www.theecho.ca/News.page?ArticleID=52508 2010-07-30T15:56:58.5858748Z <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 468x60, created 6/2/10 */ google_ad_slot = "6276332501"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60; //--> </script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><br /> <br /> <img border="1" hspace="10" alt="" width="450" height="337" src="/_mndata/echo/uploaded_images/979340.jpg" /><br /> <span style="font-size: xx-small"><strong>Photo By Charrly Maynard / The Echo<br /> Workers begin rehabilitation on Hwy 614. <br /> Motorists are reminded to be prepared to stop while the work is being done. <br /> </strong></span><br /> The Ministry of Northern Development Mines and Forestry recently sent out a News Update regarding the highway infrastructure program for 2010-2011. The hope is to create 5,500 jobs across the area and rehabilitate many of the undesirable highways in Northern Ontario. Some of these improvements include new passing lanes, intersection upgrades and to improve lighting conditions.<br /> &nbsp;&quot;Our government puts a high priority on the expansion and improvement of northern highways. We know that investments in highway infrastructure are important for creating jobs and fostering prosperity throughout Northern Ontario.&quot; said Kathleen Wynne, Minister of Transportation.<br /> &nbsp;At this time Northern Ontario contributes about 60% of the 11,000kms of the provincial highway network. In 2010-2011 approximately $327 million will used towards the &quot;expansion and safety initiative projects&quot; and $446 for &quot;rehabilitation and additional bridge funding&quot; <br /> There are over 140 project in effect across the Northern Ontario region including our own 614 highway. The 614 is set for rehabilitation along with 27 others in the North-western Region. <br /> The government plans on the rehabilitation of 26kms of the 614.<br /> <br /> <span style="color: #999999"><strong><span id="1254320718475S" style="display: none">&nbsp;</span>Advertisement</strong><br /> <!-- saved from url=(0022)http://internet.e-mail --> <meta content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1" http-equiv="Content-Type" /><script language="JavaScript" src="http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/adsheader.js"></script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ var OA_channel = '/theechoca'; // ]]> --> </script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ OA_adjs(28,'echo915c4e5'); // ]]> --> </script><noscript> <a target='_blank' href='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/ck.php?n=echo915c4e5'> <img border='0' alt='' src='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/avw.php?zoneid=28&n=echo915c4e5' /></a> </noscript><br /> </span><br /> <br /> Subscribe to our new online edition. Visit <a href="http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm">http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm</a> to start today. 100% Digital copy of The Echo. <br /> http://www.theecho.ca/News.page?ArticleID=52507 2010-07-30T15:56:58.5858748Z <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 468x60, created 6/2/10 */ google_ad_slot = "6276332501"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60; //--> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><br /><br />WFN is searching for Canada&rsquo;s Ultimate Fishing Town!&nbsp; Does your town, community or city have the ultimate fishing spot no one knows about? Is your town a destination for outdoor enthusiasts? Does your town have something unique to offer? Are you more passionate about fishing than a neighboring town, city or province?<br /> <br /> You have until August 16th, to nominate your town as WFN&rsquo;s Ultimate Fishing Town for a chance to win a $25,000 community donation. The money can be used towards any fishing-related need or initiative your town would benefit from. Not only will the winning town receive the money, WFN will film a half-hour TV show dedicated entirely to fishing in your town.<br /> Once a town is nominated, your friends, family and co &ndash;workers can add to the nomination. Build up your town&rsquo;s entry for when the voting begins!<br /> Starting August 17th, all the nominated towns will be open to a public vote.&nbsp; Make sure you promote your entry!&nbsp; Click the &ldquo;Promote Your Entry&rdquo; button for ideas and creative elements to help get the word out about our town.&nbsp; Each person is allowed to vote once every 24 hours. <br /> <br /> Starting September 7th, the final round of voting begins.&nbsp; The top two vote getters from each region ((1) Atlantic Region: Newfoundland &amp; Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick; (2) Ontario Region: Ontario, and; (3) West Region: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon, North West Territories and Nunavut) will advance to the final round of voting.&nbsp; WFN will then select an additional 6 &ldquo;wild card&rdquo; nominations to make your top 10 towns.&nbsp; The town that gets the most votes will be named &ldquo;WFN&rsquo;s Ultimate Fishing Town&rdquo;.<br /> <br /> Do you agree? visit&nbsp; <a href="http://www.wfn.tv/ultimate-fishing-town/Ontario-Manitouwadge">http://www.wfn.tv/ultimate-fishing-town/Ontario-Manitouwadge</a><br /> To learn more and to nominate your our town, visit <a href="http://www.wfn.tv/fishingtown">www.wfn.tv/fishingtown</a>.<br /> <span style="color: #999999"><strong><span id="1254320718475S" style="display: none">&nbsp;</span>Advertisement</strong><br /> <!-- saved from url=(0022)http://internet.e-mail --> <meta content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1" http-equiv="Content-Type" /><script language="JavaScript" src="http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/adsheader.js"></script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ var OA_channel = '/theechoca'; // ]]> --> </script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ OA_adjs(28,'echo915c4e5'); // ]]> --> </script><noscript> <a target='_blank' href='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/ck.php?n=echo915c4e5'> <img border='0' alt='' src='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/avw.php?zoneid=28&n=echo915c4e5' /></a> </noscript><br /> </span> <br /> <br /> Subscribe to our new online edition. Visit <a href="http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm">http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm</a> to start today. 100% Digital copy of The Echo.</span> <br /> http://www.theecho.ca/News.page?ArticleID=52506 2010-07-30T15:56:58.5858748Z <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 468x60, created 6/2/10 */ google_ad_slot = "6276332501"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60; //--> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><br /><br />This weekend the Manitouwadge Golf Course hosted it's annual Mixed Open tournament. Sixteen teams of four players were signed up to play two rounds on Saturday. Gail Isaacs who has helped work this tournament for the last 4 years said the day long tournament is an attraction to most golfers since it offers a chance to win $10,000 for sinking a hole in one on Hole 3. This year half of the teams were local and the other half came in from Marathon. A dinner was held after the Tournament and winners were announced. <br /> Gross Score winners&nbsp; were 1st place&nbsp; went to Pat and Terry&nbsp; Tuomi of&nbsp; Manitouwadge with a score of 74 for&nbsp; 18 holes. This included an eagle. Wow! 2nd place to&nbsp; Julie and Mark Amadeo of Marathon with&nbsp; a 76, while&nbsp; 3rd&nbsp; place went to Nancy and Eric&nbsp; Esarte from town with a score of 76 with a&nbsp; count back. <br /> <br /> In the&nbsp; Net&nbsp; division it was&nbsp; Sandy and Guy Houde of Marathon with net score of&nbsp; 48 , Rick Dumas and Leah Ritchie of Marathon with a score&nbsp; of&nbsp; 52 took second place and&nbsp; third&nbsp; place went to&nbsp; Mike Dumas and Linda Machano of Marathon with a net score of 54. Novelty prizes&nbsp;&nbsp; were&nbsp; given out&nbsp; to&nbsp; the following :<br /> Sandy Houde of Marathon for&nbsp; Closest to the&nbsp; hole&nbsp; on number 6 green for the&nbsp; ladies.<br /> Terry Tuomi of Manitouwadge for&nbsp; closest to the&nbsp; hole&nbsp; on number 3&nbsp; green for the&nbsp; men.<br /> Hole number 8&nbsp; showed Leah Ritchie of Marathon&nbsp; wining the&nbsp; most accurate for the ladies and&nbsp; Andy Keough of Manitouwadge , most accurate&nbsp; for the&nbsp; men.<br /> The&nbsp; winner&nbsp; of&nbsp; GUESS YOUR SCORE was&nbsp;&nbsp; guessed&nbsp; right on target&nbsp; for&nbsp; Bram Perry and Gail Isaacs&nbsp; who&nbsp; guessed&nbsp; a&nbsp; score&nbsp; of&nbsp; 80 and&nbsp; then&nbsp; did it. <br /> The day&nbsp; was wrapped&nbsp; up with a steak BBQ dinner which&nbsp;&nbsp; was enjoyed by&nbsp; everyone&nbsp; who participated.<br /> <em>Final score information provided by Gail Isaacs.<br /> Reminder the Crime Stoppers 5th Annual Tourney is September 18th.<br /> </em><br /> <span style="color: #999999"><strong><span id="1254320718475S" style="display: none">&nbsp;</span>Advertisement</strong><br /> <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 336x280, created 1/13/10 */ google_ad_slot = "1212072581"; google_ad_width = 336; google_ad_height = 280; //--> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script> <br /> <br /> Subscribe to our new online edition. Visit <a href="http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm">http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm</a> to start today. 100% Digital copy of The Echo.</span> http://www.theecho.ca/News.page?ArticleID=52505 2010-07-30T15:56:58.5858748Z <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 468x60, created 6/2/10 */ google_ad_slot = "6276332501"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60; //--> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><br /><br /><img border="1" hspace="10" width="439" height="600" alt="" src="/_mndata/echo/uploaded_images/979327.jpg" /><br /> <span style="font-size: xx-small"><strong>Submitted Photo<br /> Ab Doyle during the 4 km run.<br /> </strong></span><br /> On July 17th at 6pm, two local residents began a tough challenge at the Penn Lake Pursuit in Marathon, Ontario. Kristy LaChance and Ab Doyle competed in what is called a Sprint Triathlon. A 'Sprint' means that distances for each event are cut in half compared to a regular Triathlon. Swimming distance was 750m, Biking was 18.8km and Running was just over 4 km. There was also a Try Triathlon for anyone willing to get out there and just give it a 'try'. All ages were invited to attempt. <br /> Ab and Kristy have been training together for quite sometime now, with swims from the Lion's beach to the dock and back. As well as, riding their bikes out highway 614. It all paid off as Ab Doyle finished 3rd in his age category and Kristy finished 2nd in hers. That's not it for the duo either, Ab Doyle is headed to another event this weekend and Kristy will be attempting the St. Joseph Island Sprint Triathlon on August 14th. We wish them both the best of luck.<br /> <img border="1" hspace="10" width="381" height="336" alt="" src="/_mndata/echo/uploaded_images/979328.jpg" /><br /> <span style="font-size: xx-small"><strong>Submitted Photo<br /> Kristy LaChance pedaling thru 18.8 kms</strong></span><br /><br /> <span style="color: #999999"><strong><span id="1254320718475S" style="display: none">&nbsp;</span>Advertisement</strong><br /> <!-- saved from url=(0022)http://internet.e-mail --> <meta content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1" http-equiv="Content-Type" /><script language="JavaScript" src="http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/adsheader.js"></script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ var OA_channel = '/theechoca'; // ]]> --> </script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ OA_adjs(28,'echo915c4e5'); // ]]> --> </script><noscript> <a target='_blank' href='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/ck.php?n=echo915c4e5'> <img border='0' alt='' src='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/avw.php?zoneid=28&n=echo915c4e5' /></a> </noscript><br /> </span> <br /> <br /> Subscribe to our new online edition. Visit <a href="http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm">http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm</a> to start today. 100% Digital copy of The Echo.</span> <br /> http://www.theecho.ca/News.page?ArticleID=52504 2010-07-30T15:56:58.5858748Z <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 468x60, created 6/2/10 */ google_ad_slot = "6276332501"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60; //--> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><br /><br />The recent announcement by the Conservative Government , that refusing to fill out the long-form census will no longer be punishable, came out of the blue and left many wondering what the motivation for the decision is based upon.&nbsp; According to the government, they are merely responding to the call they had been hearing to change the law.&nbsp; For libertarians, the law requiring compliance with census is a classic example of the kind of intrusive government they seek to avoid.&nbsp; The problem is why are the Conservatives the only ones hearing this outcry?<br /> <br /> Many offices on Parliament Hill remember well the organized campaign that flooded e-mail inbox based on the American arms manufacturer Lockheed Martin being contracted to create the software used for the 2006 census.&nbsp; Then, thousands of e-mails were received from across Canada in a campaign that was undeniably existent.&nbsp; This time, it is a mystery why only Conservatives are hearing about those who find the law requiring Canadians to fill out long-form census questionnaires to be intrusive.<br /> <br /> Perhaps it is an internal party lobby.&nbsp; It still remains a mystery why the Conservatives are seeking to change the variables in a longitudinal study that tells Canadians who they are.&nbsp;&nbsp; What is not a mystery is that Canadians of all shape are lining up in opposition to the government&rsquo;s announcement and are providing some compelling reasons for us to continue with the mandatory census.<br /> Census information is not just used by the federal government.&nbsp; Provincial and municipal Governments rely on the information for their planning as well.&nbsp; It is not surprising provinces, with the exception of Alberta (likely for dogmatic reasons) have lined up to oppose the decision.&nbsp; <br /> <br /> The information that we gather in a census helps us know ourselves.&nbsp; When compared with data from other census it allows us an important window into how we are changing and where that change is happening.&nbsp; It may sound oversimplified, but without census data, we would be working from best-guesses instead of hard fact.<br /> <br /> Criticism of the change to census compliance is not limited to the provinces.&nbsp; Charitable organizations, advocacy groups, health providers, religious organizations, and community groups are also lining up to question the Conservative&rsquo;s decision.&nbsp;&nbsp; They too claim the knowledge gleaned from the census is invaluable to determine the activities and social program we should pursue, claiming that the information about where we have been and where we are going allows for the most effective planning to address trends in our population.<br /> <br /> Of real interest is that the Conservatives, as a political party, have arguably benefitted the most from social mapping, the kind that is available from a robust census.&nbsp;&nbsp; One has to wonder if they are merely trying to shut others out of the process while they use their expansive war-chest to fund private census-type data collection for their eyes only.<br /> What is clear is that the decision was made in private with no mandate and with no consultation.&nbsp; For such an important issue, Canadians deserve to truly be involved in the process.&nbsp; <br /><br /> <span style="color: #999999"><strong><span id="1254320718475S" style="display: none">&nbsp;</span>Advertisement</strong><br /> <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 336x280, created 1/13/10 */ google_ad_slot = "1212072581"; google_ad_width = 336; google_ad_height = 280; //--> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script> <br /> <br /> Subscribe to our new online edition. Visit <a href="http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm">http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm</a> to start today. 100% Digital copy of The Echo.</span> http://www.theecho.ca/News.page?ArticleID=52503 2010-07-30T15:56:58.6014753Z <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 468x60, created 6/2/10 */ google_ad_slot = "6276332501"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60; //--> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><br /><br />The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association is adding its name to the list of groups from across the country expressing concern about the recent Federal Census decision. <br /> &ldquo;The recent announcement that Statistics Canada will discontinue the use of the mandatory long-form questionnaire during the 2011 Census in favour of a voluntary National Household Survey is of great concern to NOMA members,&rdquo; says Anne Krassilowsky, NOMA President.&nbsp; &ldquo;This Government decision is troubling because of its significant potential negative impact to our collective capacity to conduct reliable, accurate analysis of municipal issues.&rdquo;<br /> <br /> &ldquo;It is our belief that a survey methodology that relies on voluntary responses will compromise the effectiveness of the data, as evidence indicates that a significant portion of Northwestern Ontario will be underrepresented.&nbsp; While we recognize that the 2011 voluntary survey will be sent to more households (from one-fifth to one-third), the voluntary nature will make the data size and response unreliable and not to the accuracy required to ensure efficient and effective program delivery.&rdquo;<br /> <br /> Krassilowsky continues, &ldquo;A lack of current, accurate Census data will be especially challenging in Northwestern Ontario where sufficient information has traditionally been less attainable, even with the previous mandatory collection system.&rdquo;<br /> <br /> In response to this Federal Government decision, the NOMA Board of Directors has passed the following resolution:&nbsp; &ldquo;THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association calls on the Federal Government to reverse this decision immediately and return to the previously applied mandatory long form process for the 2011 National Census.&rdquo;<br /> NOMA represents the interests of municipalities from the City of Kenora in the west to the Township of Wawa in the east.&nbsp; It provides leadership in advocating regional interests to all orders of government and other organizations.<br /><br /> <span style="color: #999999"><strong><span id="1254320718475S" style="display: none">&nbsp;</span>Advertisement</strong><br /> <!-- saved from url=(0022)http://internet.e-mail --> <meta content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1" http-equiv="Content-Type" /><script language="JavaScript" src="http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/adsheader.js"></script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ var OA_channel = '/theechoca'; // ]]> --> </script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ OA_adjs(28,'echo915c4e5'); // ]]> --> </script><noscript> <a target='_blank' href='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/ck.php?n=echo915c4e5'> <img border='0' alt='' src='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/avw.php?zoneid=28&n=echo915c4e5' /></a> </noscript><br /> </span> <br /> <br /> Subscribe to our new online edition. Visit <a href="http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm">http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm</a> to start today. 100% Digital copy of The Echo.</span> <br /> http://www.theecho.ca/News.page?ArticleID=52502 2010-07-30T15:56:58.6014753Z <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 468x60, created 6/2/10 */ google_ad_slot = "6276332501"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60; //--> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><br /><br /><p>The hot weather sends Ontarians in search of cool summer fun.&nbsp; Whether it's swimming in a pool or a lake, playing outdoor sports, camping or boating, it's important to make safety a top priority.<br /> To help you and your family stay safe this summer, the Ontario Real Estate Association and your local Realtor offer the follow summer safety tips.</p> <p>Pool safety<br /> Each year a number of children drown in backyard swimming pools so attention to safety is critical.&nbsp; Before beginning your swimming season, review the importance of strict safety guidelines with every member of the family.&nbsp; <br /> Be sure everyone knows the rules and informs any guests of those rules too.&nbsp; <br /> You may even want to consider taking a pool safety course from your local Red Cross.&nbsp; Here are some pool safety guidelines from Health Canada.&nbsp; <br /> &bull; Build a fence and a gate that will keep children away from your pool. Keep the gate locked at all times.<br /> &bull; ALWAYS have an adult watching children in and around the pool.<br /> &bull; Children under the age of 3 and children who cannot swim must wear a life jacket or PFD (personal floatation device).<br /> &bull; Send children to swimming and water safety lessons.<br /> &bull; Make sure lifesaving equipment and a first aid kit are handy.<br /> &bull; Take a course on pool safety, first aid and lifesaving skills (such as CPR).<br /> &bull; Have emergency phone numbers listed at the telephone closest to the pool.<br /> &bull; Make sure toys, garden furniture and tools are not near the pool fence. Children can climb up on these things to get into the pool.<br /> To learn more about water safety and learn to swim programs, please call your local Canadian Red Cross Society, or the local Branch Office of the Lifesaving Society. <br /> More swimming safety</p> <p>Lake safety<br /> &bull; Never go swimming or out on a lake alone. Make sure someone on shore knows where you're going and when to expect you back. <br /> &bull; Know your limits. Don't try to prove a point around water. You may be testing more than your ability to perform a trick. <br /> &bull; Swim safely. Never swim in an area frequented by motorized watercraft. Make sure you can be seen and swim along the shore rather than away from it. <br /> &bull; Learn to &quot;drownproof.&quot; Even strong swimmers can tire or suffer a cramp. Knowing how to rest while afloat may save your life. <br /> &bull; Watch the weather. Never swim or enter the water in an electrical storm. Lightning striking the water can have deadly consequences. <br /> Boating safety<br /> &bull; All Canadian boaters operating a powered watercraft for recreational reasons in Canada need a Pleasure Craft Operator Card or they risk a $250 fine.&nbsp; You can take the exam online at <a href="http://www.boaterexam.com">www.boaterexam.com</a> &bull; If possible, take a companion on every outing on the water. If you have to go alone, make sure someone on shore knows where you're going and when to expect you to return. <br /> &bull; Wear a lifejacket at all times. You never know when you might fall overboard. A lifejacket can save your life, especially if you are rendered unconscious or are injured in the fall. <br /> &bull; Know the waterway. If possible, equip yourself with charts and a depth finder. <br /> &bull; Keep an eye on the weather. Be prepared for storms and be able to seek shelter from the elements. <br /> &bull; Don't overload your boat and never stand in a small boat. <br /> &bull; Avoid the use of alcohol. <br /> &bull; Always carry a first aid kit and a full array of safety equipment. By learning life-saving techniques like artificial respiration and CPR, you can be <br /> ready for any emergency.&nbsp;&nbsp; Contact your nearest St. John Ambulance branch for more information. <br /> Beat the Heat<br /> Before heading outdoors for a day of fun, be sure you've applied sunscreen and take along a hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun's harmful rays.&nbsp; If you'll be enjoying water sports, use a waterproof sunscreen and reapply it throughout the day.</p> <p>Staying hydrated in the heat, especially if you will be participating in active outdoor sports like soccer, volleyball or running, is vital.&nbsp; Drink plenty of water and natural fruit juices throughout the day to replace the fluids lost to the heat and activity.&nbsp; Without proper fluid intake, dehydration and heatstroke can occur.</p> <p>Don't get bugged<br /> To avoid nasty mosquito and other bug bites this summer, always apply a bug repellent containing DEET.&nbsp; Take along a small spray can or pump bottle of repellent and reapply it later in the day to ensure it's effectiveness lasts.&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /> Wearing long sleeves and light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing also helps.&nbsp; As well, avoid being outdoors at dawn and dusk if possible which is when mosquitoes are at their worst.</p> <p>The Ontario Real Estate Association and your local Realtor wish you a safe, happy and enjoyable summer.&nbsp;&nbsp; Just be sure to take safety rules with you&nbsp; wherever you go.</p> <p>This article is provided by local REALTORS&reg; and the Ontario Real Estate Association for the benefit of consumers in the real estate market.<br /> &nbsp;</p> <br /> <span style="color: #999999"><strong><span id="1254320718475S" style="display: none">&nbsp;</span>Advertisement</strong><br /> <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 336x280, created 1/13/10 */ google_ad_slot = "1212072581"; google_ad_width = 336; google_ad_height = 280; //--> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script> <br /> <br /> Subscribe to our new online edition. Visit <a href="http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm">http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm</a> to start today. 100% Digital copy of The Echo.</span> http://www.theecho.ca/News.page?ArticleID=52501 2010-07-30T15:56:58.6014753Z <script type="text/javascript"><!-- google_ad_client = "pub-7740248616197944"; /* 468x60, created 6/2/10 */ google_ad_slot = "6276332501"; google_ad_width = 468; google_ad_height = 60; //--> </script><script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script><br /> <br /> The Government of Canada is reminding Canadians to take steps to prevent cross-contamination of foods when shopping using reusable grocery bags and bins.<br /> As an environmental choice, many Canadians are now shopping with reusable bins, reusable plastic bags and cloth bags to reduce the amount of plastic they are using. Health Canada supports the proper use of these products, but it is important that Canadians use them safely to prevent cross-contamination of food with bacteria that can cause foodborne illness.<br /> Because these bags and plastic bins are reused frequently, they can pick up bacteria from the foods they carry, or from their environment (the ground, the back of your car or the items stored in them between grocery trips).<br /> <br /> The following steps can help you prevent cross-contamination:<br /> &bull;When using cloth bags, make sure to wash them frequently, especially after carrying fresh produce, meat, poultry or fish.&nbsp; Reusable grocery bags may not all be machine washable. If you are using this type of grocery bag, you should make sure to wash them by hand frequently with hot soapy water. Plastic bins should be washed using hot soapy water on a regular basis as well.<br /> &bull;Put your fresh or frozen raw meat, poultry and fish in separate bins or bags from fresh produce and other ready-to-eat foods.<br /> &bull;Putting your fresh or frozen raw meat, poultry or fish in plastic bags (the clear bags found in the produce and some meat sections work well) will help prevent the juices from leaking out and contaminating your reusable containers and other foods. Fresh produce should also always be put in plastic bags to protect them from contamination.<br /> &bull;If you are using your grocery bags or bins to store or transport non-food items, they should be thoroughly washed before using them for groceries.<br /> <br /> It is estimated that there are approximately 11 million cases of food-related illnesses in Canada every year.&nbsp; Many of these illnesses could be prevented by following proper food handling and preparation techniques.<br /> <br /> For more information on reusable grocery bags and bins and other food safety tips, please visit:<br /> Government of Canada&rsquo;s Reusable Grocery Bags and Bins Tips ( <a href="http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/securit/kitchen-cuisine/reusable-bags-sacs-reutilisable-eng.php">http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/securit/kitchen-cuisine/reusable-bags-sacs-reutilisable-eng.php</a> ) <br /> Government of Canada&rsquo;s Food Safety Portal ( <a href="http://www.foodsafety.gc.ca">www.foodsafety.gc.ca</a> )<br /> Partnership for Consumer Food Safety Education&rsquo;s Be Food Safe Canada Campaign ( <a href="http://www.befoodsafe.ca">www.befoodsafe.ca</a> )<br /> <br /> <span style="color: #999999"><strong><span id="1254320718475S" style="display: none">&nbsp;</span>Advertisement</strong><br /> <!-- saved from url=(0022)http://internet.e-mail --> <meta content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1" http-equiv="Content-Type" /><script language="JavaScript" src="http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/adsheader.js"></script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ var OA_channel = '/theechoca'; // ]]> --> </script><script type='text/javascript'> <!--// <![CDATA[ OA_adjs(28,'echo915c4e5'); // ]]> --> </script><noscript> <a target='_blank' href='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/ck.php?n=echo915c4e5'> <img border='0' alt='' src='http://www.nnw.ca/openads/www/delivery/avw.php?zoneid=28&n=echo915c4e5' /></a> </noscript><br /> </span><br /> <br /> Subscribe to our new online edition. Visit <a href="http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm">http://ezread.ca/echo/index.htm</a> to start today. 100% Digital copy of The Echo. <br /> http://www.theecho.ca/News.page?ArticleID=52500 2010-07-30T15:56:58.6014753Z 7/30/2010 11:56:57 AM http://www.theecho.ca/ 7/30/2010 11:56:57 AM info@theecho.ca