Charter school proposal moving forwards
By Amanda Jeffery, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Members of local indigenous groups are working toward opening a charter school with the goal of offering students an education that goes beyond academics. Charlene Bearhead, a member of the board for the Roots of Resilience not-for-profit society, says the group is applying to the Minister of Education to be able to open a charter school in Drayton Valley, with a goal of opening in September. The society is hosting an information night on February 13 from 5-7:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express. Bearhead says her 40 years of working in education has made it clear that the system is failing children and staff as human beings. “I’m always a big believer in doing the best you can to try to work...
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Aiming to save lives
By Sandi Krasowski, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Chronicle-Journal When Confederation College cancelled its pre-service firefighter program in 2024, it left instructor Shane Ferguson with more time on his hands to focus on his new fire safety company. “When one door shut, another opened giving me more time to work in the northern communities, doing fire safety and firefighter training, and to develop the Stay Alive Fire Safety company,” he said. Ferguson developed his award-winning game, The Great Escape, more than 20 years ago and it has grown into a vital learning tool for children to learn about fire safety. During the last several months, he has expanded the computer game to an Indigenous app version, changing characters to include the Seven Sacred Animals and voicing by community elders. In...
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Timber firms win right to appeal in massive Aboriginal title case
By John Chilibeck, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Daily Gleaner Three timber firms will have a chance to convince the New Brunswick Court of Appeal that a lower-court decision should be struck in the Wolastoqey Nation’s big, precedent-setting Aboriginal title case. On Friday, Justice Ivan Robichaud, who serves on the higher court, granted J.D. Irving, Limited, Acadian Timber and H.J. Crabbe and Sons leave to appeal. They all appeared for a one-day hearing last month seeking permission from the appeal court, New Brunswick’s highest, to re-examine Justice Kathryn Gregory’s decision on motions they had filed to remove them from the massive lawsuit that includes both public and private property. As is customary in such decisions, Robichaud did not offer any reasons for granting their request. The companies didn’t like Gregory’s...
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Manitoba RCMP say house fire that left one dead appears suspicious
RCMP are investigating a deadly house fire in the Interlake region of Manitoba. Officers and firefighters responded Friday to a blaze at Pinaymootang First Nation, where they found a home fully engulfed in flames. Two days later, the body of one person was found in the rubble. RCMP say the cause of the fire appears suspicious. They are asking anyone with information about the fire to call the Gypsumville detachment or Crime Stoppers. ...
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Quebec Solidaire joins First Nation in fight against nuclear waste site
By Marc Lalonde, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Iori:wase Quebec Solidaire joined the Kebaowek First Nation in the fight against a nuclear-storage facility close to the Ottawa River, urging the Quebec government to publicly oppose the project. Kebaowek First Nation Chief Lance Raymond was joined at the podium by Quebec Solidaire Indigenous Affairs critic Manon Masse and Quebec Solidaire environment critic Alexandre Leduc. Raymond said he was glad to have Quebec Solidaire’s support in fighting the Chalk River Near Surface Nuclear Disposal Facility. “For years, Kebaowek First Nation has spoken out against the inequities of the current process. The activities proposed at Chalk River violate the rights guaranteed to our community under Section 35 of the Constitution. These lands are those of our ancestors, and we refuse to bear, generation after...
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OPP investigate firearm discharged at Highway 6 business
HALDIMAND COUNTY, ON -Haldimand County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are investigating after shots were fired at a Highway 6 business overnight. Haldimand OPP said shots were fired at the business at about 7a.m. Wed., February 12, 2025. OPP said early reports indicated an unknown individual (or individuals) were on the property sometime overnight and discharged a firearm at the unoccupied business. The Haldimand County OPP Crime Unit and West Region Forensic Identification Services attended the scene to process evidence. There are no concerns for public safety currently. Any person with information regarding this incident should contact the Haldimand County OPP Crime Unit at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may leave an online tip at www.helpsolvecrime.com or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), where you may be eligible...
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Manitoulin’s own Al Douglas leads climate resilience efforts with federal funding
By Jacqueline St. Pierre, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Manitoulin Expositor SUDBURY—Communities across Northern Ontario are set to benefit from new federal funding aimed at tackling the growing challenges of climate change. The Government of Canada has announced an investment of over $2.7 million in five projects designed to strengthen climate resilience, including initiatives led by Manitoulin’s Al Douglas, president of the Climate Risk Institute. The funding comes as part of the federal Climate Change Adaptation Program (CCAP), which supports efforts to prepare for and mitigate climate-related risks across Canada. Mr. Douglas, a respected climate expert, is at the helm of three of these projects, run out of Laurentian University’s Climate Risk Institute. His work focuses on equipping professionals, decision-makers and First Nations communities with the tools and training needed...
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Wiikwemkoong moves ahead on transitional housing plan
By Jacqueline St. Pierre, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Manitoulin Expositor ONTARIO—Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory’s own Jonathan Peltier of the Justice Program was one of the keynote speakers at the Chiefs of Ontario Mental Wellness and Substance Use conference, held in Collingwood from January 28 to 30. His story is one of perseverance, transformation and a deep commitment to justice and healing for Indigenous communities. Mr. Peltier, who serves as a Gladue aftercare worker and in prisoner reintegration, has dedicated his life to assisting Indigenous men and women in federal custody. His work involves not only helping individuals transition out of incarceration but also delivering culturally relevant programs within correctional facilities. As a shkabewis (helper), Mr. Peltier builds relationships, carrying forward the teachings that shaped his own journey. A Journey of...
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The number of Americans seeking jobless benefits falls as employers continue to hold on to workers
By Matt Ott U.S. applications for unemployment benefits fell last week as employers continue to retain workers despite resurgent inflation and elevated interest rates. The number of Americans filing for jobless benefits fell by 7,000 to 213,000 for the week ending February 8, the Labor Department said Thursday. Analysts projected that 215,000 new applications would be filed. Weekly applications for jobless benefits are considered representative of layoffs. The four-week average, which smooths out some of the week-to-week volatility, inched down by 1,000 to 216,000. Despite showing some signs of weakening during the past year, the labor market remains healthy with plentiful jobs and relatively few layoffs. Last week, the Labor Department reported that U.S. employers added 143,000 jobs in January, significantly fewer than December’s 256,000 job gains. However, the unemployment...
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White House says it has the right to punish AP reporters over Gulf naming dispute
By David Bauder NEW YORK (AP) — The White House said Wednesday that news organizations that refuse to use President Donald Trump’s new name for the Gulf of Mexico were telling “lies” and insisted it would continue to bar Associated Press journalists from presidential events. Trump has decreed that the international body of water — which borders Mexico, the United States and other nations — be called the Gulf of America. In its influential Stylebook, the AP said it would continue to use Gulf of Mexico, while also noting Trump’s decision, to ensure that names of geographical features are recognizable around the world. The White House’s outright attempt at regulating language used by independent media — and the punitive measures attached to it — mark a sharp escalation in Trump’s...
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Trump readies matching tariffs on trade partners, possibly setting up a major economic showdown
By Josh Boak WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump is taking additional action to upset the world trade system, with plans to sign an order as soon as Wednesday that would require that U.S. tariffs on imports match the tax rates charged by other countries. “It’s time to be reciprocal,” Trump told reporters earlier this week. “You’ll be hearing that word a lot. Reciprocal. If they charge us, we charge them.” The president had suggested that the order would come on Tuesday or Wednesday. But when Tuesday passed without the tariffs being officially announced, Trump was asked if he would sign the order on Wednesday and Trump answered: “We’ll see what happens.” On Wednesday, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said she believes that the tariffs would come before Thursday’s...
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Unlocking northern opportunities
By Sandi Krasowski, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Chronicle-Journal Indigenous communities throughout Northwestern Ontario could have better opportunities for economic growth and new business development thanks to a $2.5-million investment from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, (FedNor). Patty Hajdu, minister of Indigenous Services and minister responsible for FedNor, made the funding announcement Tuesday in Thunder Bay while attending the Neegani-Iishwin Gathering at the Valhalla Inn. Hajdu said the investments total $2,665,565 for seven initiatives supported and led by Indigenous communities and organizations in the Northwest. “These initiatives will enhance the ability of First Nations communities to lead and benefit from business development within their traditional territories,” Hajdu told The Chronicle-Journal. “The projects include the delivery of several critical plans and strategies, the hiring of skilled professionals including...
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First Nation calls on Alaskan fishery to stop intercepting vulnerable salmon
By Andie Mollins, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Tŝilhqot’in chiefs are calling on the Alaskan District 104 Fishery to stop intercepting vulnerable salmon stocks bound for their territory, stating the fishery’s harvesting is infringing on Tŝilhqot’in Aboriginal rights. “Our people depend on the salmon run every year to ensure that our families do not go hungry,” Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Joe Alphonse said in a Feb. 11 press release issued by the Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG). The chiefs are making their call at the Pacific Salmon Commission’s fortieth annual meeting in Portland, Ore. The commission works to implement the Pacific Salmon Treaty which authorizes the Alaskan Salmon Fishery. “Year after year we are faced with record low Chilko sockeye returns while the Alaskan 104 Fishery catches these salmon without limit,” said Alphonse. In...
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Brantford Police arrest second person in robbery and shooting
BRANTFORD, ONT- Brantford Police Service (BPS) has arrested and charged a Mississauga man in a robbery and shooting in the city Jan. 22, 2025. BPS said as a result of continued investigation an 18-year-old man was arrested Feb. 10, 2025 and has been charged with: Attempt to murder x 2 Point firearm Robbery with a firearm Weapons Dangerous Assault with a weapon Aggravated assault Discharge firearm with intent Unauthorized possession of firearm Knowledge of unauthorized possession of firearm Disguise with intent Careless use of firearm, weapon, ammunition Discharge firearm with intent to wound Possession of stolen property over $5000.00 Flight from police The man was held for bail to appear at bail court February 11, 2025. The second arrest comes after a 21-year-old Dundalk man was was “quickly located by...
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Mohawk Chapel warning of potential scam
Mohawk Chapel in Brantford warns of alleged scam website By Joshua Santos Writer Six Nations Police are investigating after officials of Six Nation’s historic Mohawk Chapel raised concerns that a “fraudulent website” is mirroring the chapel site and may be soliciting funds. Mohawk Chapel represents said, they learned recently that another Mohawk Chapel website has surfaced impersonating its official page complete with a fundraising section that once activated could see funds designated for the preservation of Indigenous heritage misdirected. Six Nations Police Chief Darren Montour told Turtle Island News the police force had been contacted is “looking into this.” His Majesty’s Royal Chapel of the Mohawks, 301 Mohawk St., has now published a notice on its website stating its domain is the only official websiteand entity authorized with the upkeep...
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Six Nations federal schools will now administer Jordan’s Principle dollars
Six Nations may have found a solution to the Jordan’s Principle woes, but some councillors are concerned. Councillor Audrey Powless-Bomberry, chair of the Education Committee shared an update from the committee at the Six Nations Elected Council’s (SNEC) General Council meeting on January 28. She said Six Nations federal schools would now administer Jordan’s Principal to parents. “It makes a lot of sense,” she said. “They’re working in tandem with Six Nation’s Jordan’s Principle and a lot of applications are put in with the school,” she said. The committee received a presentation from Travis Anderson, director of federal schools with Indigenous Services Canada. Anderson told the committee the federal school’s Jordan’s Principle Group application was approved. Parents can now apply through the schools. Powless-Bomberry said they met with principals and...
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Six Nations restaurant owners suspect arson after devastating fire
By Joshua Santos Writer The owners of a popular Six Nations restaurant say they believe arson was behind the fire that raged through its establishment late January, though an official report from the Office of the Fire Marshal has yet to be released. Burger Barn owners Jason and Celeste Hill took to social media, calling the blaze a “heinous act” that has temporarily shuttered their award-winning business. “Intentionally destroying the family restaurant that we worked so hard to build from the ground up over the last 14 years is not only a truly disgusting scheme, but a cowardly one,” the Hills wrote in a statement. The fire broke out at the popular Fourth Line restaurant on Jan. 27 at about 3:30 a.m. leaving the barn-like building heavily damaged. Flames guttered...
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Six Nations Police arrest three in altercation over stolen truck
Three people have been arrested after police fired a shot into a rear tire to stop a stolen vehicle that was being driven erratically through the community. Six Nations Police said the incident at Third Line Road and Mohawk Road Friday (Feb. 7th) saw the truck almost colliding with other motorists several times before the pickup became stuck in the snow along Third Line Road near Mohawk Road. Police said when officers blocked in the truck, in an attempt at escape, the truck driver drove at the driver’s door of one of the cruisers striking an officer with an open door. As a result, the officer discharged his firearm into the rear tire of the vehicle to disable the vehicle. The driver and two passengers were arrested. No injuries were...
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Police warn of romance scams this Valentine’s Day
With Valentine’s Day approaching, many people are looking for love, while scammers are searching for victims. The Ontario Provincial Police is warning about the rise of romance scams, where fraudsters build trust and manipulate emotions to steal money. According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC), Canadians lost $58.4 million to romance scams in 2024. The total amount of investment fraud reached $310 million.Police state scammers use artificial intelligence to manipulate victims with fake voices and pictures. Bad faith actors establish trust and emotional intimacy through fake profiles on social media, dating platforms and other online channels. Once trust is gained, victims are pressured into sending money or investing in fraudulent business ventures. Romance schemes often can be identified, police say, when someone you’ve never met in person declares their love...
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Six Nations business owner helps employees in tragic time
By Joshua Santos Writer Mandy Plourde worked her last shift at the Burger Barn the day before a monstrous blaze consumed the business late January. She served customers on Jan. 26 before a fire ravaged the Fourth Line restaurant on Jan. 27 at about 3:30 a.m. She said she was in total shock. She was all of a sudden without a job. “I was there the night before,” said Plourde. “I was grateful nobody was at the place when it happened. “I was in total shock.” Six Nations Police said the popular restaurant was hit by two violent attacks. A shooting spree occurred on Jan. 25 followed by, what is believed to be, a suspect arson attack on Jan. 27. Police continue to investigate if the two incidents are connected....
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