Monday, June 6, 2011

Library Sale Discussed

Fort Frances council will discuss today the potential sale of the former Fort Frances Library building.

Councillors are doing so behind closed doors in advance of tonight's regular council meeting.

The Fort Frances Community Clinic and Evangelical Fellowship Church each submitted bids for the vacant building.

The Salvation Army had also expressed interest but did not submit a formal bid.

Strategic Plan Input Sought

Residents in Fort Frances will get an opportunity tonight to provide input into a new strategic plan for the community.

CAO Mark McCaig says the plan will serve as a blueprint for council over the next four years.

"This is an opportunity to get involved in the planning process," says McCaig, "and give some direction to Mayor and Council about initiatives or areas that the town should start moving in on a long-term basis."

McCaig says residents who don't attend tonight's meeting can still submit suggestions before the end of this week.

Local College Grads Get Diplomas

Graduating students from Confederation College's campus in Fort Frances will be honoured tonight.

Commencement ceremonies will be held for 49 students at the Townshend Theatre beginning at 5 p.m.

For the first time, the College will hand out its employer of the year award to a local business for its contributions to the school.

New School Opens

An official opening of the new Robert Moore School in Fort Frances was celebrated in Friday.

Principal Dianne Thompson says the school incorporates the latest in technology to assist in student learning.

"Things from Smartboards incorporated into every single classroom," says Thompson. "Computer labs on both floors, really incorporating where we are in this point in time and looking towards the future for the education of our students."

More than four hundred students have attended classes in the new school since September.

Forest Fire Watched

The Ministry of Natural Resources is monitoring a forest fire in Quetico Provincial Park.

The lighting caused fire in the southwest portion of the park was reported Saturday.

Since it's causing no concern, the MNR says the fire will be allowed to burn as it will benefit the area.