The Fort Frances Lakers were able to snap a three-game losing skid last week but couldn't turn that into an extended winning streak over the weekend.

Jersey Masson looked to get her skate and pad against the left post as quick as she could to thwart a wraparound attempt by a Fort Frances Bantam 'AA' Canadians' forward during her squad's 5-0 loss Saturday morning at the annual Scott Clendenning Memorial Showcase at the Ice For Kids Arena.

Kimmy and Malcolm Daley posed for a pic at this festive photobooth on Thursday evening during Friends of the Fort Frances Museum's “Novemberfest” fundraiser there. The seventh-annual wine, cheese, and beer fundraiser, which drew a packed house, also featured hors d'oeuvres, live music, games, and a live auction.

Julie Lowry, left, and Priscilla Wright were among the few hundred people who came out to the annual Remembrance Day tea, hosted by the local Legion Ladies' Auxiliary, yesterday afternoon at the Legion here. The always-popular event featured baking and candy tables, meat pies, cabbage rolls, and perogies, as well as a cookie walk, “Pick-a-Poppy,” penny table, door prize, and a 50/50 draw.

OTTAWA—The newly-struck North American trade agreement will let more American dairy products into Canada and, while it has yet to be ratified, it's already putting at least one MP from the governing Liberals in an awkward spot.

OTTAWA—Paramedics say one person is dead after two small planes crashed mid-air in Ottawa yesterday morning.

Ottawa police said the collision occurred over the west end of the city just after 10 a.m.

Staff Sgt. Jamie Harper said one plane then crashed into a field while the other managed to land at the Ottawa International Airport.

TORONTO—Ontario Premier Doug Ford is shuffling his cabinet just months after taking the reins of the province—a move that follows the abrupt resignation of one of his ministers last week.

TORONTO — A paper published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests life expectancy in Canada could be threatened by the same factors that are causing it to fall in the United States.

FORT WORTH, Tex.—Kevin Harvick gave the checkered flag to a young fan he brought onto the track to take a selfie—one with the winning driver and car that will have a shot at another NASCAR Cup championship.

OTTAWA—The Ottawa Senators held a closed-door, players-only meeting after dropping a 4-3 overtime loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning at Canadian Tire Centre last night.

The Senators (5-6-3) now have lost six of their last seven games and the players know they need to right the ship.

VANCOUVER—The Calgary Stampeders have cemented their spot atop the CFL's West Division but the club's head coach feels like his squad doesn't have what it takes to win heading into the playoffs.

“We need to be a better team,” Dave Dickenson said Saturday night after the Stamps beat the B.C. Lions 26-9.

LOS ANGELES—Serge Ibaka outscored the Lakers by himself in the first quarter and he didn't miss a shot until the third.

He beat L.A. inside and outside on the way to the biggest offensive game of his career.

Thanks to Ibaka's brilliance for the Toronto Raptors, Kawhi Leonard wasn't missed by anyone except the Lakers' fans who might have been hoping to entice him home.

MINNEAPOLIS—Danielle Hunter had three-and-a-half of Minnesota's franchise-record 10 sacks and a fourth-quarter fumble return for a touchdown, making for a miserable afternoon for Matthew Stafford and the Detroit Lions in a 24-9 victory by the Vikings yesterday afternoon.

ATLANTA — Georgia’s online voter database morphed into a last-minute curveball in one of the nation’s hottest governor’s races, with Republican nominee Brian Kemp making a hacking allegation against Democrats just as reports emerged of a gaping vulnerability in a system that Kemp controls as secretary of state.

WASHINGTON—Earth's protective ozone layer finally is healing from damage caused by aerosol sprays and coolants, a new United Nations report said.

The ozone layer had been thinning since the late 1970s.

Scientist raised the alarm and ozone-depleting chemicals were phased out worldwide.

WASHINGTON — Earth’s protective ozone layer is finally healing from damage caused by aerosol sprays and coolants, a new United Nations report said.

The ozone layer had been thinning since the late 1970s. Scientist raised the alarm and ozone-depleting chemicals were phased out worldwide.

It will be overcast tonight, with an overnight low of minus-one C (30 F) and light south-east winds.

Tomorrow will see the chance of snow, with a possible accumulation of one-three cm (about an inch).

Look for a high of three (37) and low around minus-six (21), along with west-northwest winds gusting up to 18 km/h.

Laura Gosse, standing, community engagement co-ordinator for the Fort Frances Museum & Cultural Centre, and Kayleigh Speirs, administration manager at the Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre, were busy this morning getting the new exhibit, “Indigenous Veterans of Treaty No. 3,” ready at the local museum. The exhibit will open this Thursday (Nov. 8) with a reception from 5-7 p.m.

BURNABY, B.C.—A rare duck native to East Asia is making a splash in a lake east of Vancouver and experts believe he is an escaped pet.

The Mandarin duck, with his vibrant golden, green, and blue plumage, is attracting visitors to Burnaby Lake and first was seen in May, says Irene Lau, chair of the Burnaby Lake Park Association.

A similar fowl in New York has drawn crowds, too.

REGINA—Police in Saskatchewan soon could be allowed to release information about someone's abusive past if they believe that person's partner may be at risk.

Dubbed “Clare's Law,” the proposed legislation is said to be the first of its kind in Canada and is aimed at reducing the province's high domestic violence rates.

Postmedia Network Inc. no longer will be delivering newspapers to schools across Canada in order to comply with federal laws that restrict how cannabis is advertised to minors, the company said yesterday.

OTTAWA—Canada's spy agency says many members of the environmental and Indigenous communities see the federal purchase of the Trans Mountain pipeline as a betrayal, and suggests that could intensify opposition to expanding the project.

OTTAWA—The federal Liberals are promising more money to more cities through their cornerstone homelessness strategy—pledging $1.25 billion over the next nine years to cities looking to tackle poverty.

Social Development minister Jean-Yves Duclos also said yesterday that there will be dedicated funding for the territories of $43 million over the same period.

OTTAWA—Repaying hundreds of thousands of disabled veterans and their survivors for a calculating error that deprived them of some of their pensions for seven years will cost $165 million, the federal government says.

TORONTO — A paper published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests life expectancy in Canada could be threatened by the same factors that are causing it to fall in the United States.

SALT LAKE CITY—Without Kawhi Leonard, the Raptors used a balanced team effort to get their fourth-straight win.

“We have been playing basically position-less basketball,” said Kyle Lowry, who had 17 points and 11 assists as Toronto beat the Utah Jazz 124-111 last night.

NEW YORK—After his team's first four skaters in the shootout couldn't beat goalie Thomas Greiss, Montreal Canadiens' coach Claude Julien decided to go with the right-handed Joel Armia instead of Charles Hudon.

The move paid off.

Armia scored in the fifth round on the first shootout attempt of his career to give the Canadiens a 4-3 win over the N.Y. Islanders last night.

ARLINGTON, Tex.—Kevin Byard secured the interception that sparked the sluggish Tennessee Titans and turned toward midfield.

The flashback for the Dallas Cowboys was just as disheartening as the original.

BEIJING — Chinese authorities have begun deploying a new surveillance tool: “gait recognition” software that uses people’s body shapes and how they walk to identify them, even when their faces are hidden from cameras.

BAGHDAD — More than 200 mass graves containing between 6,000 and 12,000 bodies have been found in Iraq from the time of the Islamic State group’s three-year reign, U.N. investigators said Tuesday.

TORONTO—A paper published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests life expectancy in Canada could be threatened by the same factors that are causing it to fall in the United States.

“There are some signs which are pointing in the same direction,” said Juergen Rehm of Toronto's Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, a large teaching and research hospital.

European-style dinner rolls are different from their rich, tender American cousins. The dough for these rustic rolls is lean and the crumb is open, with a yeasty, savory flavour. But the best part might be their crust—so crisp it practically shatters when you bite into it, yet chewy enough to offer satisfying resistance.

So, what do you say, dressing or stuffing?

Baked Brie topped with jam or fruit is popular for good reason. When the cheese is warmed, it becomes rich and gooey, and pairing it with sweet fruit brings out the savory notes in the cheese.

There is much to love about sweet, nutty pecan pie, but it’s easy for this simple dessert to turn out tooth achingly sugary and void of pecan flavour, with a curdled filling sogging a leathery crust.

We wanted to create the ideal recipe for a not-too-sweet pie with a smooth-textured filling and a properly baked bottom crust. We decided to start from the bottom up.

Heating and glazing a cured ham seems effortless, but many recipes yield leathery meat in an overly sweet glaze. We wanted to guarantee moist meat in a nuanced glaze.

Panini, sandwiches traditionally cooked in a ridged press, are hard to get wrong—but also surprisingly hard to get just right.

An additional one-three cm (about an inch) of snow is possible tonight, with an overnight low of minus-five C (23 F) and north-northwest winds gusting up to 24 km/h.

Tomorrow will be overcast, with a high of minus-three (26) and low around minus-nine (16).

Look for northwest winds gusting up to 35 km/h.

The “snowflake” decorations that line a few blocks of Scott Street each holiday season are getting a fresh look this year thanks to the BIA.

The group representing downtown businesses has been busy painting all 34 of the large, metal snowflakes red.

“We've been doing them for years,” noted BIA president Doug Cuthbertson.

The local museum will be able to continue to provide top-notch workshops for another year thanks to the Friends of the Fort Frances Museum.

Their annual wine, cheese, and beer fundraiser gala, entitled “Novemberfest,” drew a full house of more than 100 people last Thursday evening and raised at least $4,000 with the live auction alone—about $1,000 more than last year.

The Christmas parade here will be held in December this year—as well as on a different day of the week and at a different time of day.

Following the theme, “Christmas at the Movies,” the parade is set to go at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 2—a change from early Saturday evening as it's been in recent years.

November is Women Abuse Prevention Month and Fort Frances is getting involved for a fifth year with the “Shine the Light” campaign.

“We feel it's really important to bring that to our community,” said Jaquee Loerzel, a community family violence counsellor at Riverside Health Care here.

The Church of the Holy Spirit in Fort Frances is excited to be offering a new social activity!

On Friday, Nov. 23, the church is going to become a coffee house! They will open the doors at 6:30 p.m., with live music starting at 6:45.

People are invited to come in, enjoy a beverage and some goodies, while being entertained, with admission being $5/person.

Local MPP Greg Rickford doled out funding for four district farms during the Rainy River Federation of Agriculture's annual dinner and meeting Saturday night at the Millennium Hall in Stratton.

Some $44,500 was earmarked for Delton Martin's cattle operation in Stratton while $43,500 went to Allen Jolicouer to purchase a tractor for his cow/calf operation in Barwick.

A new town council is preparing to be sworn-in next month but they won't be the only fresh faces seen around local municipal meeting tables in the coming term.

The town is accepting applications from qualified residents to serve on various boards and committees until Nov. 21 and from the looks of it, quite a few applicants are needed to fill those positions.

Here are the sunrise and sunset times for Nov. 8-14:

A reminder that several cenotaph services will be held in the district for Remembrance Day this Sunday (Nov. 11).

There first will be a church service at 10 a.m. at the Devlin Hall, followed by services at the Devlin cenotaph (11 a.m.) and the Emo cenotaph (11:45 a.m.)

The Northwestern Health Unit reports a first case of influenza has been confirmed in the region.

Having one positive case means that there are other, non-lab tested cases in the area.

Influenza cases this early in the season are rare, and the health unit is urging everyone to get a 'flu shot right away as the vaccine takes two weeks to work.

The Rainy River Owls' junior and senior girls' basketball teams have battled hard and shown good resilience so far this season.

That was exemplified even further in their wins over the visiting Red Lake Rams in the NorWOSSA 'A' regular-season finale last Wednesday afternoon.

The juniors romped to a 46-12 win over the Rams to finish with an unblemished 7-0 record.

They may have finished with the same record but the Rainy River Owls' senior and junior boys' volleyball teams had much different conclusions in the NorWOSSA 'A' regular-season finale last Wednesday afternoon at RRHS.

It's been a tale of two different seasons for the Muskie junior and senior boys' volleyball teams, but the latter was hoping that anything could happen in the playoffs.

Both squads hosted NorWOSSA semi-final matches yesterday, with the juniors downing the Kenora Broncos 3-1 while the seniors earned a 3-0 sweep over the Dryden Eagles.

The local Cyclone swim club racked up 53 medals at the season-opening meet hosted by the Dryden Dolphins over the weekend.

On the boys' side, Gabe Gunderson took home five medals in the age 13-and-up division.

That included gold in the 25m back (21.84) and bronze in each of the 50m back (44.89), 100m back (1:33.15), 50m fly (43.65), and 100m I.M. (1:34.28).

The Muskie football team showed all season a never-say-die, never-give-up attitude—and that was much the same in their semi-final loss to the top-ranked Elmwood Giants last Thursday in Winnipeg.

A fourth-quarter touchdown proved to be the difference as the Giants outlasted the Muskies by a narrow 31-30 margin.

Things appeared to be going well for the Fort Frances Lakers heading into Saturday night's showdown against the Thief River Falls Norskies at the Ice For Kids Arena.

The Lakers had snapped a three-game losing streak last Wednesday with a 4-3 shootout win over the host Norskies, then won their second-straight Friday night after blanking the visiting Minnesota Iron Rangers 4-0.

They played all season to earn this shot and they were hoping to make the most of it.

Both the Muskie junior and senior girls' basketball teams capped off impressive regular seasons with wins last Tuesday against the visiting Kenora Broncos—and were excited at the prospect of winning gold at yesterday's NorWOSSA playoffs at Fort High.

A season's worth of hard work and dedication paid off for eight members of the Muskie cross-country team as they took part in the OFSAA championships in Hamilton on Saturday.

The first game action of the season can be unnerving for any team—and the Muskie girls' hockey squad isn't exempt from those feelings.

But any bouts of nervousness quickly faded away over the weekend as the black-and-gold compiled a 2-1 record at the annual Scott Clendenning Memorial Showcase at the Memorial Sports Centre.

It was a nice way for the Muskies to kick things off.

Volunteer Jorja Pope, top left, offered Ron Bridgeman some sandwiches while her friend, and Bridgeman's granddaughter, Piper Cross, refilled his coffee Sunday afternoon during the annual Remembrance Day Tea hosted by the Legion Ladies' Auxiliary at the Legion Hall.

Emcee Lauren Hyatt, centre, interviewed Kevin Kennedy, left, as fellow stein-holding contestant Cameron Daley focused intently on keeping his mug aloft during “Novemberfest” last Thursday evening at the museum. Ultimately, Vance Dick won the men's contest while Colleen Fawcett won for the women.

Diane Clifford, left, Val Calder, and Min Crowe had a friendly chat as music played and festive laughter filled the air on the main floor of the museum Thursday evening during “Novemberfest.”

Legion Br. #29 president Ray Watson, Legion member Rod Davis, and Mayor Roy Avis held up the poppy flag before raising it ain front of the Civic Centre last on Wednesday. The flag is a symbol of remembrance and recognition for the sacrifices made by those who fought for the country's freedom.

Laura Gosse, community engagement co-ordinator for the Fort Frances Museum & Cultural Centre, showed off a set of paddles made and donated by Friends of the Museum members Eric Fagerdahl during the live auction. One paddle has an image of the “Hallett" burned into it while the other depicts the "Owandem.”

Lori Maki, left, Lisa Belluz, Jacquee Loerzel, Tyson Dennis, Coun. June Caul, and Mayor Roy Avis held up the bright purple “Shine the Light" flag before it was raised in front of the Civic Centre on Thursday morning.

J T J Contracting Ltd. demolished the “United Church Building” at the fairgrounds in Emo on Friday morning, which will be replaced by a new 170-foot-long structure that will house food booths, a commercial kitchen, and bathrooms. The Exhibition Hall also is being renovated, with construction for both hoped to be completed in time for next year's fair.

Jordie Baird performed songs throughout most of the evening, only take short breaks for the stein-holding contests and live auction.

Jean Richards last week got the silent auction ready for the Fine Line Art Gallery's upcoming “Christmas Extravaganza.” From now until the open house this Saturday (Nov. 10), people are urged to drop by 529 Mowat Ave. and bid on upwards of 25 items. The bids will be drawn during the open house, which will run from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and feature a variety of unique gift ideas for sale.

“From the Grind Up" owner Ben Morelli, left, chatted with "Friends of the Museum" volunteer Sarah Marusyk during the "Novemberfest” fundraiser gala Thursday evening at the Fort Frances Museum & Cultural Centre. The sold-out event saw nearly 100 people enjoy live music, games, a live auction, and beer, wine, and food—all in support of museum programming. See story, more photos on A5.

Debbie Collett was dressed in the spirit of the event as she enjoyed a plate of Bavarian fare. Flint House served up a smorgasbord of tasty food, ranging from bratwurst and Black Forest ham to soft pretzels and cheese dip.

Darren and Chantal Derendorf of Gold Star Taxi took won first place in the “Brightest" category at the annual "Trunk-or-Treat" event that took place last Wednesday at the Fort Frances Public Library parking lot. The display was decked out in "Jurassic Park”-themed decorations and provided a prehistoric feel to the young trick-or-treaters who stopped by.

The appeal of German desserts made upstairs at the museum a popular stop for the those attending “Novemberfest.” Here, Jason and Barb Kabel each indulged their sweet tooth.

BIA members showed off the newly-repainted “snowflake” decorations that will be hung on streetlights along Scott Street next week. Pictured here are Heather Gill (TD Canada Trust), Duane Cridland (Flint House), Pat Gartshore (Garth's Pub), Doug Cuthbertson (Northwoods Gallery & Gifts), Ed Gackley (Flint House), and Katie Trigg (TD Canada Trust).

Mike Reid with a trophy musky that he caught and released earlier this week on Lake of the Woods.

Tatum Glowasky looked to drive to the hoop during the second half of the Muskie junior girls' basketball team's 29-19 win over the visiting Kenora Broncos in the NorWOSSA regular-season finale last Tuesday afternoon (Oct. 30). Glowasky netted five points to help pace the Muskies' offence in their league-leading seventh win of the eight-game season.

Fort Frances Lakers' forward Brett Hahkala did his best to tip a shot in front of Minnesota Iron Rangers' goalie Nick Corneliusen during the third period of his squad's 4-0 win Friday night at the Ice For Kids Arena. Hahkala scored a second-period goal to help pace the Lakers to their seventh win of the season.

Cole Allan of the Fort Frances Lakers looked to blast a shot top-shelf over Thief River Falls Norskies' goalie Fletcher Bolda during his squad's 3-1 loss Saturday night in SIJHL action at the Ice For Kids Arena. Unfortunately for Allan and Lakers, the scoring chance went high and wide.

Isabella Fortes had her eyes focused on where the puck was going, and did her best to keep it from entering the net, during the first period of the Muskie girls' hockey team's 5-0 loss to the Fort Frances Bantam 'AA' Canadians on Saturday morning at the annual Scott Clendenning Memorial Showcase at the Ice For Kids Arena.

TORONTO — Canadian youth can now access mental health support through a free bilingual texting service being rolled out across the country by Kids Help Phone.

The charitable organization is introducing the 24/7 texting support option through a service partnership with U.S. based helpline and technology pioneer Crisis Text Line.

TOKYO — Attention Simone Biles: They’re building a venue in Tokyo where you can add to the four Olympic gold medals you won in Rio de Janeiro.

The 2020 Olympic gymnastics venue is halfway completed and should be finished by this time next year.

COMPIEGNE, France — Adolf Hitler went in wartime for revenge. Angela Merkel plans a pilgrimage in the name of peace. Two German chancellors, with opposite aims and the same destination: a train car in a French forest.

If you know anything about Texas Red Chili, then you know the one thing that is NOT in this recipe.

If you have just yelled “BEANS!”, then you are correct (and you knew you were correct and did not need me to tell you, thank you very much).

On Nov. 11, 1918, when news of the armistice broke, churches across Canada responded by spontaneously ringing their bells.

With this news came joy and a sense of hope that eased a nation's fears and sorrow.

The Fort Frances Volunteer Bureau needs a new cook to head up this year's community Christmas dinner at Knox United Church—or the perennially-popular event simply won't happen.

“We'd like to get somebody in place by Nov. 15,” Judy Koski of the Volunteer Bureau told the Times.

The Backus Community Center in International Falls is pleased to announce the return of seven siblings, “The Hunts,” this Friday (Nov. 9) at 7 p.m.

The Hunts are an indie-alternative-folk band comprised of seven brothers and sisters. Born and raised in Chesapeake, Va., they grew up in a musical home and fell in love with composing their own music.

On Tuesday around 9 p.m., officers from the Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau, Community Street Crime Unit, and the Dryden Police Service executed a search warrant on a Dryden residence.

Police seized 284 grams of methamphetamine, with a street value of about $56,800, as well as drug trafficking materials and Canadian currency.

Craig Miller, environmental superintendent for the Town of Fort Frances, yesterday gave a presentation on the process of treating raw lake water at the town's treatment plant for a Grade 8 class at St. Francis School. The class then toured the plant this morning, led by Miller and the senior water treatment plant operator Randy White.

Crews managed to finish laying the first layer of asphalt for the overpass construction on Tuesday and Wednesday but line painting for the roadway likely will be delayed until next year due to the recent cold and wet conditions. Temporary reflective stickers will be put on the asphalt instead.

ASTRA, Ont.—A senior Ontario cabinet minister was forced to step down last week after facing an allegation of sexual misconduct, Premier Doug Ford said yesterday, breaking his government's days-long silence on the controversial matter.

TORONTO—Canada Post publicly admitted to a privacy breach involving thousands of Ontario's online cannabis customers yestersday after the province's only outlet for legal recreational marijuana notified clients of the problem.

OTTAWA—Longtime Conservative MP Tony Clement was forced out of his party caucus yesterday, the day after he admitted to sending someone sexually-explicit images and a video.

TORONTO — It’s long been known that Alzheimer’s patients often retain musical memories, even when recall of names, faces and places has been lost as the disease relentlessly destroys key areas of the brain.

Now Canadian researchers believe they know why, thanks to the power of MRI brain scanning.

SACRAMENTO, Calif.—Kawhi Leonard isn't making a big deal out of Toronto's NBA-best 11-1 start.

He's trying to stay focused on the nuances of coach Nick Nurse's offence.

Once that happens, Leonard says, the Raptors really will get rolling.

Leonard had 25 points and 11 rebounds in his return from an ankle injury as Toronto beat the Sacramento Kings 114-105 last night.

REGINA—Roughriders' quarterback Zach Collaros says he believes the CFL is trying to remove hits like the one that left him questionable for the West Division semi-final.

Collaros left Saskatchewan's Oct. 27 regular-season finale against the B.C. Lions following a late first-quarter hit from Odell Willis.

CHARLOTTE, N.C.—Kevin Harvick's bid for a second NASCAR title suffered a massive setback when he was stripped of his berth in the championship race after series inspectors found his winning car from Texas Motor Speedway had been deliberately altered to give him a performance advantage.

WASHINGTON—Scientists have found the oldest-known example of an animal drawing: a red silhouette of a bull-like beast on the wall of an Indonesian cave.

The sketch is at least 40,000 years old, slightly older than similar animal paintings found in famous caves in France and Spain.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—A Missouri landlord stumbled upon an unwanted house guest while evicting a tenant: a large alligator in a hot tub.

The tenant described the 150-pound reptile as “gentle as a puppy” after animal control workers were called to the Kansas City home yesterday.

The workers also found two boa constrictors and a rabbit.

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif.—Using a smoke bomb and a handgun, a hooded gunman dressed all in black opened fire during “college night” at a country music bar in southern California last night, killing 12 people and sending hundreds fleeing in terror, authorities said today.

The gunman then apparently killed himself.

Authorities said the motive for the attack was under investigation.

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. — A hooded gunman dressed entirely in black opened fire on a crowd at a country dance bar holding a weekly “college night” in Southern California, killing 12 people and sending hundreds fleeing including some who used barstools to break windows and escape, authorities said Thursday. The gunman was later found dead at the scene.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A Missouri landlord stumbled upon an unwanted house guest while evicting a tenant: a large alligator in a hot tub.

The tenant described the 150-pound reptile as “gentle as a puppy” after animal control workers were called to the Kansas City home on Wednesday. The workers also found two boa constrictors and a rabbit.

WASHINGTON — Scientists have found the oldest known example of an animal drawing: a red silhouette of a bull-like beast on the wall of an Indonesian cave.

PLYMOUTH, Mass. — If a tree falls in the Tidmarsh Wildlife Sanctuary, it doesn’t matter if there’s no one around. You can hear it anyway.

CANBERRA., Australia — Australia’s prime minister on Thursday outlined plans to increase investments in infrastructure in the South Pacific as China’s influence in those nations grows.

It will be cloudy tonight, with an overnight low of minus-nine C (16 F) and west-northwest winds gusting up to 17 km/h.

Tomorrow will see a chance of snow, with a possible accumulation of two-four cm (an inch or so).

Look for a high of minus-four (24) and low around minus-12 (10), along with north winds gusting up to 26 km/h.

“Indigenous Veterans of Treaty No. 3,” a new exhibit running through December at the Fort Frances Museum and Cultural Centre, will open today (Nov. 8) from 5-7 p.m., with opening remarks at 5:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served and everyone is welcome to attend.

Unifor national representative Stephen Boon confirmed three new tentative agreements were reached Thursday covering more than 500 members from Unifor Locals 105-1, 105-3, and 324 at Domtar's Pulp Mill and Woodlands Operations in Dryden.

“We are pleased to have reached solid new tentative agreements with Domtar that achieve Unifor's Eastern Canada Pulp and Paper Pattern,” Boon said.

54•40 frontman Neil Osborne sang his heart out while performing yesterday evening at the Townshend Theatre. The show, entitled “Unplugged: Songs & Stories," featured all of 54•40's hits reimagined and was the second in the 2018-19 "Tour de Fort" passport season. The next show is "Boreal,” a showcase of winter-themed original songs and holiday classics, set for Friday, Dec. 7.

Dave Taggart of the Canadian Border Services laid a wreath during the annual Remembrance Day ceremony held yesterday morning at the Fort Frances cenotaph. About 150-200 people braved the chilly weather to attend the ceremony, which saw close to 30 wreathes and crosses being laid. Similar ceremonies were held at cenotaphs across the district.

The return of colder weather to Borderland also has brought with it the return of minor hockey tournaments. It was a tight battle on the ice between the Emo Express Green and the Westend Bruins during Emo's 4-1 win yesterday in the gold-medal game of the Fort Frances Minor Hockey Association's annual PeeWee 'A' tournament at the Ice For Kids Arena.

Fort High student Brianna Eldridge belted out “House of the Rising Sun" by Georgia Turner and Bert Martin during the school's annual fall musical revue that ran from Thursday to Saturday. With the theme being "Shade of Yellow and Sunshine,” the show featured a series of songs and choreographed performances based on the colour yellow and the sun.

OTTAWA—Spiritual leaders yesterday reflected on the horrors of the First World War while calling for a world of tolerance and peace as thousands of Canadians braved the biting cold to remember and honour those who fought to defend such ideals.

PARIS—Politicians working to harness the power of social media to connect with voters need to figure out how to do so positively in the face of leaders using those platforms to undermine democracy, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says.

MILWAUKEE — Pabst Brewing Company and MillerCoors are going to trial, with hipster favourite Pabst contending that MillerCoors wants to put it out of business by ending a longstanding partnership through which it brews Pabst’s beers.

CHICAGO — Fish oil, vitamin D, novel drugs, new cholesterol guidelines: News from an American Heart Association conference over the weekend reveals a lot about what works and what does not for preventing heart attacks and other problems.

CHICAGO — Move more, sit less and get kids active as young as age 3, say new federal guidelines that stress that any amount and any type of exercise helps health.

AVONDALE, Ariz.—The three most dominant drivers of this NASCAR season fittingly will race each other for the championship—a chance for Kyle Busch, Kevin Harvick, and Martin Truex Jr. to settle which team truly is the best.

It was Busch who claimed the latest round, winning for the eighth time this year yesterday to tie Harvick for the most Cup victories.

REGINA—Blue Bombers' head coach Mike O'Shea noticed Andrew Harris enter the media room after Winnipeg's West Division semi-final victory and felt compelled to downplay his running back's performance.

“Yeah, he was OK,” O'Shea said with a laugh.

Harris ran in a fourth quarter touchdown as the Blue Bombers beat the Saskatchewan Roughriders 23-18 yesterday.

WINNIPEG—Mark Scheifele figures the pieces of the puzzle are starting to click together for the Winnipeg Jets.

His pair of goals, which gave him a team-leading nine, helped the Jets earn a 5-2 victory over the New Jersey Devils yesterday.

He also had one assist.

“We've been playing the right way," Scheifele said. ”We've been in the right spots.

GREEN BAY, Wis.—For a change, it was the Packers in a runaway.

Aaron Jones ran for career highs of 145 yards and two scores, and Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams connected for two touchdown passes, as the Green Bay beat the Miami Dolphins 31-12 yesterday.

PARIS — Fifty nations and over 150 tech companies are pledging to do more to fight criminal activity on the internet, including interference in elections and hate speech. But the United States, Russia and China are not among them.

PARIS — For President Donald Trump in Paris, America First meant largely America alone.

At a weekend commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I, the president who proudly declares himself a “nationalist” stood apart, even on a continent where his brand of populism is on the rise.

NEW YORK — More than 200 items belonging to Frank and Barbara Sinatra ranging from movie scripts to jewelry are going up for auction.

LONDON — For kids growing up in today’s cashless society, the piggy bank is going virtual.

Father of two Roland Hall turned to a British startup’s digital pocket money app because his kids were still too young to get bank cards from traditional banks.

It will be cloudy tonight, with an overnight low of minus-13 C (eight F) and west winds gusting up to 17 km/h.

Tomorrow will be partly sunny and cold, with a high of just minus-six (21) and low around minus-11 (12).

Look for west-southwest winds gusting up to 17 km/h.

Since 2016, Rainy River First Nations and the Royal Ontario Museum have been engaged in a collaborative effort to return ancestors and sacred objects that were removed from the community during excavations of the burial mounds in the 1950-'70s.

The ROM recognizes its participation in these past excavations by Walter Kenyon, who served as curator at the ROM from 1956-1982.

A familiar sleigh will be displayed at the Rainy Lake Square this winter.

Town council endorsed the use of Linda and Bob Hamilton's cutter sleigh for display at the square with a forthcoming agreement that outlines ownership, maintenance responsibilities, and release of liability.

Since March, the Family Drop In Centre at 272 Scott St. has provided friendship, clothing, food, and quality conversation to members of the community who may be struggling.

But the centre, which is run by volunteers, will be shut down by the end of February if it does not receive more funding from the community.

The Rainy River District Women's Shelter of Hope is hoping to have a permanent presence in Fort Frances, and has asked town council for its support for the initiative.

In a letter from Donna Kroocmo, executive director of the Shelter of Hope, she indicated the agency is applying for a grant from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.

The incoming council will be busy right off the bat with the 2019 municipal budget.

The current council approved the timetable for planning out next year's budget at its regular meeting yesterday evening (held one day later due to the Remembrance Day observance).

New local ownership, new opportunities, and new options for customers recently has come to Causeway Insurance here.

New owner/operator of the insurance brokerage, John Homer, who purchased it on Nov. 2 from Mario Galluzzo, recently teamed up with another independent broker, StoneRidge Insurance, located in southern Ontario.

User fees here could go up 2.6 percent next year.

Town council has directed division managers to affect the indicated user fee increase in the 2019 user fee schedule, with each executive committee to then review the impact of the increase on their respective division.

Council then will make a decision regarding any increase based on feedback from the executive committees.

The Fort Frances Police Services Board is seeking motivated, community-minded individuals to apply for two provincially-appointed positions on it.

Two current board members—John McTaggart and Andrew Hallikas—recently were elected to town council and have to vacate their positions on the PSB.

The Fort Frances PSB is a five-person board consisting of the following:

Local families and businesses will benefit from new economic opportunities thanks to a Government of Canada investment of $270,000.

This investment, through FedNor's Community Investment Initiative for Northern Ontario (CIINO), will help the Town of Rainy River and the Townships of Lake of the Woods and Dawson hire an economic development officer (EDO) for a three-year period.

Darlene Begin and R. & A. Radbourne of Fort Frances were among the Alzheimer Society of Kenora/Rainy River Districts' cash calendar winners for November.

Most residents of the district know they are under Treaty #3 but not everyone knows what that means.

Schools across the district tried to change this by getting students more educated on the topic through hosting presentations about the history and importance of “Treaty #3 for "Treaty Recognition Week” (Nov. 5-9).

The Emo and District Lions Club's annual “Hunters Night," also known as "Wild Meat Night,” was a complete success, according to organizers.

More than 300 people were served a fantastic meal of moose roast, deer stew, bear and apple sausages, walleye, buns, and veggies.

The final cattle sale of 2018, which took place Saturday at the sales barn in Stratton, brought a close to another great season.

The farmer owned and operated livestock auction saw 669 head of cattle fetch just under $650,000.

The five sales of 2018 generated close to $7 million from the 6,273 animals that went through the ring.

Kathy and Glen Boyda (Atikokan) and Jamie Caouette (Atikokan) won the $100 up for grabs on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, respectively, in the Rainy River District Mutual Aid Association's weekly cash calendar draw.

Local MPP Greg Rickford on Friday unveiled new “Open for Business” signs that have been installed at the Canada-U.S. border at Rainy River and the Ontario-Manitoba boundary.

“[Our government] is sending a clear message to the world that the province is open for business,” said Rickford.

The provincial government is planning to honour past and present members of the Canadian Armed Forces, who have sacrificed so much for the people of Ontario and Canada.

Work is underway to amend fishing regulations so veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces members can enjoy free recreational fishing by early 2019.

Acquired from the Red Lake Miners for a player development fee last Thursday, Owen Lee wasted little time in shining with his new squad.

The 19-year-old scored twice and added two assists to help the Fort Frances Lakers earn a pair of victories over the weekend.

Team Jackson is ready to show what it can do on a national stage.

It appeared as though the Muskie senior boys' volleyball team was close to putting a disappointing regular season behind them early in the NorWOSSA final here last Tuesday.

But after claiming the first two sets by scores of 25-19 and 25-15 against the top-ranked Kenora Broncos, things started to fall apart for the third-seeded Muskies in their upset hopes.

Talk about capping a successful weekend in style.

Callum McCormick's hat trick helped the Emo Express Green roll to a 4-1 win over the West End Bruins in the gold-medal game of the Fort Frances Minor Hockey Association's annual PeeWee 'A' tournament Sunday at the Ice For Kids Arena.

The squad compiled a 3-0-1 record to advance to the final.

They knew the target was squarely on their backs and that a talented Kenora Broncos' team would be hungry to try to snatch the crown from them at the “Fish Tank.”

But the top-ranked Muskie junior girls' basketball team displayed the skills that had made them the top dogs of the regular season in a scrappy 39-25 win over Kenora in the NorWOSSA final last Tuesday.

They were the best team in the regular season and rightfully earned the bye to the NorWOSSA 'A' junior girls' basketball final.

And as it turns out, they were the best team between them and the host St. Thomas Aquinas Saints last week in Kenora.

The Rainy River Owls capped an undefeated season with NorWOSSA gold as they downed the Saints 37-25 score on Thursday.

Their head coach had the utmost confidence in them all season and they came through in the clutch.

The second-seeded Muskie junior boys' volleyball team rallied for a 3-1 victory over the top-ranked Dryden Eagles to claim NorWOSSA gold last Tuesday afternoon at Fort High.

Here are the sunrise and sunset times for Nov. 15-21:

A return trip to the worlds just wasn't in the cards for Team Bonot at the Canadian Mixed Curling Championship last week in Winnipeg.

They almost played the role of underdogs to perfection but came up just short in the end.

The third-seeded Rainy River Owls' senior boys' volleyball team battled hard but just couldn't muster up enough to take down the second-ranked Atikokan Voyageurs in a heart-breaking five-set loss in the NorWOSSA 'A' semi-final last Wednesday in Kenora.

A new season brings new hope for the Muskie boys' hockey team.

The black-and-gold were denied an 11th-straight trip to OFSAA last season when they lost 4-3 in double-overtime to the Sioux Lookout Warriors in the third-and-deciding game of the NorWOSSA final here back in March.

The new exhibit also features some artifacts from both world wars, including medals, a gas mask, and bayonets.

Local lawyer Clint Calder visited St. Francis School on Thursday for “Treaty Recognition Week,” in which he spoke to students about the history of Treaty #3, why it's important, and how indigenous people have been affected. Other schools in the district heard similar presentations.

Fort High students Maya Davis, Erica Lemelin, and Mira Donaldson provided some reggae energy to the “Shade of Yellow and Sunshine"-themed fall musical revue that ran from Nov. 8-10 when they sang "Don't Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin. The three performances provided attendees with a two-hour break from the cold as the students performed warm and happy summertime tunes.

Genny Jourdain shared a few words on behalf of her husband, Glenn, during the reception last Thursday at the museum. Glenn Jourdain helped Laura Gosse and Kayleigh Speirs with their research in putting the exhibit together.

Multi-instrumentalist Dave Genn of the iconic Canadian rock band, 54•40 played a guitar solo during a number Sunday evening at the Townshend Theatre. The show, entitled “Unplugged: Songs Stories," featured all of 54•40's hits reimagined and was the second in the 2018-19 "Tour de Fort" passport season.

Elaine Medicine read through the names of veterans from area First Nations listed on the honour wall that is part of the new exhibit, “Indigenous Veterans of Treaty No. 3,” during its opening reception Thursday at the Fort Frances Museum & Cultural Centre.

Provincial representative Troy Kadikoff laid a wreath at the annual Remembrance Day ceremony held Sunday morning at the Fort Frances cenotaph. About 150-200 people came out to show their respects for those who served our country. See more photos A6.

Daniel Friday, left, Charles Friday, and Jeremy Jordan of Seine River First Nation opened last Thursday's reception with a drum song. Several men and women who attended the opening were relatives of local veteran Buddy Friday, who went overseas to fight in WWII at just 17 years of age.

John and Cindy Homer cut into the celebration cake during the official launch party that was held Nov. 3 at Flint House to celebrate his new ownership of Causeway Insurance. About 75 people came out to join in the festivities.

Close to 30 people marched through town carrying signs for Weechi-it-te-win's “Domestic Violence Awareness Walk" held Thursday morning. Some of the signs read "Love Shouldn't Hurt,""The Silence Surrounding Abuse Must Be Broken," and "Choose To Be Kind.”

The 1st Fort Frances Sparks and Brownies (above) laid a wreath at the local cenotaph during the annual Remembrance Day ceremony on Sunday to pay their respects to Canada's fallen. Fort High student Katelyn Bruyere (top right) recited “In Flanders Fields," the famous poem written by Lt.-Col.

Randi Roth of the Royal Canadian Legion Br. #29 Colour Guard looked over a display dedicated to well-known, decorated indigenous war veterans such as Tommy Prince.

Alina Eldridge looked to stand her ground defensively while Brynn Montgomery of the Dryden Eagles tried to blow past her and cut to the hoop during the first half of the Muskie senior girls' basketball team's 46-35 win in the NorWOSSA final last Tuesday night at Fort High.

Jeff Gustafson is moving from the FLW Tour to the Bassmaster Elite Series tournament circuit in 2019.

Aiden Knapaysweet of the West End Bruins looked to clear the puck out of his own end while Ryan Brown (#15) of the Emo Express Green had his sights set on him during Emo's 4-1 win Sunday in the gold-medal game of the Fort Frances Minor Hockey Association's annual PeeWee 'A' tournament at the Ice For Kids Arena. The Express Green compiled a 3-0-1 record en route to claiming the title.

Joe Hardy (#6) and Jaxon Gartzke (#17) looked to combine to form a stellar wall on a block during the Muskie junior boys' volleyball team's 3-1 win over the Dryden Eagles in the NorWOSSA final last Tuesday afternoon at Fort High. That good defence was key after the Muskies had dropped the first set but then rallied back to snatch gold away from the Eagles.

Fort Frances Lakers' captain Nick Lucas looked to fire a shot from a sharp angle upstairs on Thief River Falls Norskies' goalie Fletcher Bolda during his squad's 6-4 win here Saturday night. Lucas ended up registering a goal and an assist in that one after having notched a pair of markers in the Lakers' 5-2 win over the Minnesota Iron Rangers the previous night in Hoyt Lakes.

Kobi Ward and Caleb Allan were prepared to do whatever it took to keep the ball from creeping over the net during the Muskie senior boys' volleyball team's 3-2 loss to the top-ranked Kenora Broncos in the NorWOSSA final last Tuesday at Fort High.

GENEVA — Christie’s sold the “Pink Legacy” diamond at auction Tuesday for more than $50 million including fees, saying it’s a new world record price per carat for a pink diamond.

Calgary’s bid to host the 2026 Winter Olympics was rebuffed on Tuesday when local voters said “no” in a nonbinding referendum.

Unofficial results showed that 56 per cent voted against bidding for the Olympics. Results showed that out of 767,734 eligible voters, 304,774 cast ballots and 171,750 of those voted against the Olympic bid.

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — A grey wolf relocated this fall from mainland Minnesota to Isle Royale National Park has died of unknown causes, officials said Tuesday, a minor setback in a multiyear plan to rebuild the predator species on the Lake Superior archipelago.

Senior water treatment plant operator Randy White showed St. Francis students a sample of polyelectrolyte during their tour of the town's water treatment plant Thursday. He explained that the thick and sticky chemical is added to water to help remove suspended solids and make it more clear.

TORONTO—Ontario Premier Doug Ford defended his finance minister yesterday, saying allegations of sexual misconduct against the veteran legislator referenced in a book by former Progressive Conservative leader Patrick Brown are nothing but a “disgusting smear campaign.”

TORONTO—The Pistons delivered for coach Dwane Casey in his return to Toronto.

But Detroit left it late—rallying from a 19-point deficit to edge the Raptors 106-104 last night on Reggie Bullock's buzzer-beater before 19,800 at Scotiabank Arena.

GREEN BAY, Wis.—Running back Aaron Jones' break-out game led to a breakthrough performance in the red zone for the Green Bay Packers.

In Sunday's 31-12 victory over the Miami Dolphins, Jones rushed for a career-high 145 yards and two touchdowns.

DETROIT — Testing by AAA shows that electronic driver assist systems on the road today may not keep vehicles in their lanes or spot stationary objects in time to avoid a crash.

The tests brought a warning from the auto club that drivers shouldn’t think that the systems make their vehicles self-driving, and that they should always be ready to take control.

SEVRES, France—The kilogram is getting an update.

No, your bathroom scales won't suddenly become kinder and a kilo of fruit still will weigh a kilo. But the way scientists define the exact mass of a kilogram is about to change.

OAKFIELD, N.Y. — Cows that can withstand hotter temperatures. Cows born without pesky horns. Pigs that never reach puberty.

A company wants to alter farm animals by adding and subtracting genetic traits in a lab. It sounds like science fiction, but Recombinetics sees opportunity for its technology in the livestock industry.

NEW YORK—Mercedes or Mustang? John Deere or Jeep?

Electric ride-ons for kids are busting out all over this holiday season.

Target will add nearly a quarter-million square feet of new space for toys across more than 500 stores.

Some of that real estate will show off a broad selection of ride-ons and other large toys.

TORONTO — They come from all walks of life, young and old: millions of Canadians who are unpaid caregivers for aging parents, children with a disability or a sibling with a chronic illness. Yet a survey reveals many are struggling, often in isolation, trying to fulfil a critical role with not enough support from the health-care system.

WASHINGTON — The next generation of biotech food is headed for the grocery aisles, and first up may be salad dressings or granola bars made with soybean oil genetically tweaked to be good for your heart.

“Girls' Night Out” goes today (Nov. 15) at participating downtown merchants, with many staying open until 8 p.m.

In celebration of Louis Riel Day, a flag-raising ceremony will be held on Friday, Nov. 16 at 11:30 a.m. at the Civic Centre, with a free luncheon to follow at the Sunset Country Métis Hall (714 Armit Ave.) All are welcome to attend.

A number of service degradation issues that arose on Nov. 15 for some of Tbaytel’s land line telephone customers primarily have been resolved as a result of efforts made by Tbaytel technicians.

Some customers, both business and residential, in Fort Frances and Thunder Bay were experiencing one-way audio or a loss of dial tone, which resulted in the inability to complete calls.

Carolyn Kozlowski, left, bought some baked goods from C.W.L. volunteer Jenny Sieders yesterday afternoon during the Christmas tea and bazaar at St. Mary’s Church. The popular event, hosted by the C.W.L. of St. Mary’s Parish, featured handmade crafts, draws, a silent auction, and a kids’ zone, as well as coffee, tea, and refreshments.

Brandon Croswell looked to get a handle on a loose puck near his net during the third period of the Fort Frances Bantam ‘AA’ Canadians’ 3-2 loss to the North End Flames (Thunder Bay) yesterday afternoon in the gold-medal game of their annual home tournament at the Ice For Kids Arena. The Canadians scored a late goal in that one but couldn’t quite complete the comeback and settled for silver.

Mayor Roy Avis, left, Ed Lucier, a Métis representative from Manitoba, Sunset Country Métis president Brady Hupet, and mayor-elect June Caul held up a Métis flag in front of the Civic Centre on Friday to mark Louis Riel Day. A flag-raising ceremony followed. Nov. 16 is the anniversary of Riel’s execution that took place in 1885.

KAMPALA, Uganda — Campaigners are urging governments and businesses to invest more to improve sanitation in poor countries facing a dangerous shortage of toilets.

The toilet crisis is severe in parts of Africa and Asia battling extreme poverty.

CHICAGO — The recent turbulence in the U.S. stock markets is spooking some older workers and retirees, a group that was hit particularly hard during the most recent financial crisis.

There’s no indication, though, that the recent volatility has brought about large-scale overhauls in retirement planning.

Walmart assistant manager Rosanne DeGagne, left, and store manager Cheri Dyck joined Pastor Ryan MacDonald and Donna Haney to kick off the annual Christmas kettle campaign there yesterday morning. Kettles also are out at Safeway, with one to be set up at the local LCBO starting Dec. 1. Volunteers will be ringing the bells until Dec. 22. To volunteer, call 1-807-456-3654.

OTTAWA—Brynn Vincent was only 13 when she started experimenting with drugs and alcohol.

Two years later, she was addicted and had run away from home, and then she found out she was pregnant.

She sought treatment for addiction at a rehab facility, then moved into a homeless shelter.

OTTAWA—Auditor general Michael Ferguson today fired a bullet at the Trudeau government's plan to buy second-hand Australian fighter jets, revealing the air force doesn't have enough people to fly the planes it already has.

TORONTO—Six teens were arrested and charged yesterday in connection with an alleged sexual assault at an all-boys' private school in Toronto as police said they were looking into more incidents and additional charges could follow.

Police said five teens, accompanied by their parents or lawyers, turned themselves in to police while a sixth student was arrested on his way to school.

TORONTO—The Ontario government will not move forward with a proposed policy that called for gender identity references to be removed from the sexual-education curriculum, Premier Doug Ford said yesterday after the issue surfaced at a weekend gathering of his Progressive Conservative party.

WASHINGTON—American officials can't yet say for sure if there's been any change in the number of people being turned away at the Canada-U.S. border for using marijuana or working or investing in the legal cannabis industry.

TORONTO—Quebec's premier yesterday pressed his Ontario counterpart to reconsider controversial changes to French language services but couldn't sway Doug Ford, who maintained francophones in his province would continue to be well-served.

TORONTO—Frederik Andersen held the fort long enough for his teammates to wake up from their West Coast hangover.

The Maple Leafs' goalie made 37 saves, and Zach Hyman scored the go-ahead goal with less than five minutes to go in regulation time, as Toronto overcame a sluggish start to beat the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-2 last night.

The numbers appear to be in the Calgary Stampeders' favour ahead of this Sunday's Grey Cup in Edmonton.

Whether that's enough to end the team's losing skid in the championship game remains to be seen.

The West Division champion Stampeders led the CFL in victories again this season, were second in points scored, and allowed the fewest points of all nine teams.

LOS ANGELES—Even before the fourth lead change of the fourth quarter, well before the 1,001st yard of combined offence was tallied, the Kansas City Chiefs and the L.A. Rams already knew this was a classic.

WASHINGTON — Cat lovers know when kitties groom, their tongues are pretty scratchy. Using high-tech scans and some other tricks, scientists are learning how those sandpapery tongues help cats get clean and stay cool.

The secret: Tiny hooks that spring up on the tongue with scoops built in to carry saliva deep into all that fur.

WASHINGTON—Cat lovers know when kitties groom, their tongues are pretty scratchy.

Using high-tech scans and some other tricks, scientists are learning how those sandpapery tongues help cats get clean and stay cool.

The secret: tiny hooks that spring up on the tongue with scoops built in to carry saliva deep into all that fur.

Most glazed roast chicken recipes offer some variation on these instructions: Roast a chicken as you would normally, painting on a sweet glaze 15 to 30 minutes before the bird is done.

When the food processor was introduced in the 1970s, it suddenly made difficult or time-consuming recipes so much easier. The fast blades combine ingredients in just seconds.

Beautifully braided, rich, and lightly sweet, freshly baked challah is delicious on its own or smeared with softened butter. After a few days, it’s great dunked in custard and made into French toast for a decadent breakfast.

Applesauce cakes don’t have a singular definition; they run the gamut from dense, chunky fruitcakes to gummy “health” cakes without much flavour. We wanted a moist and tender cake that actually tasted like apples.

Also known as posole, this fragrant and spicy New Mexican stew combines toothsome hominy and tender chunks of pork in a mildly spicy, verdant base. We wanted to use the multicooker to make a streamlined version that would maintain the stew’s characteristically complex flavour.

It will be cloudy and cold tonight, with an overnight low of minus-16 C (three F) and north winds gusting up to 20 km/h.

Tomorrow will be mostly cloudy, with a high of minus-10 (14) and low around minus-11 (12).

Look for east-southeast winds gusting up to 15 km/h.

School Bus Safety Week ran Oct. 22-26, 2018.

To promote school bus safety, the Rainy River District Transportation Services Consortium held its annual School Bus Safety Poster Contest with the theme, “My Driver-My Safety Hero.”

A total of 278 posters were submitted for the contest.

The winners for each category are as follows:

The Northwestern Health Unit has released a report on “Cannabis in the Community.”

The report was completed in preparation for the legalization of cannabis in Ontario (on Oct. 17), gathering information about public perceptions to inform future programs.

It summarizes the results of an online discussion panel and online survey that had almost 600 responses.

While plans are shaping up for the annual Christmas parade, set for Sunday, Dec. 2 and this year entitled “Christmas at the Movies,” volunteers now are needed for the holiday event.

“They're definitely something we still need,” said TD manager of customer experience Heather Gill, who is co-organizing the parade along with branch manager Katie Trigg.

The Ontario PC Party has been under fire for passing a resolution to debate the recognition of gender identity on Saturday during the party's three-day policy convention in Toronto.

The resolution that sparked controversy was proposed by parental rights advocate Tanya Granic Allen.

Treaty #3 Grand Chief Ogichidaa Francis Kavanaugh issued a statement Friday expressing shock and deep concern over the closure of the Office of the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth.

Local residents Wilna and Hubert Meyers have handcrafted quilts over the last few years that have been given to various veterans in the community to recognize their service.

The contributions are part of the “Quilts of Valour” program that is made up of volunteers who create quilts to recognize injured soldiers and veterans.

The Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce will be holding its annual general meeting this Tuesday (Nov. 27) from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Copper River Inn, which is open to all members in good standing.

The FFCC is excited to welcome mayor-elect June Caul as the guest speaker.

With November being Woman Abuse Prevention Month in Canada, a local business has been raising funds to support victims of sexual assault.

For the past two years, Curvy Chick on Scott Street has held a cupcake fundraiser in November.

Store owner Jennifer Horton was able to sell 162 cupcakes this time around.

In a story on page A5 of last week's Times, local resident Robert Holmes incorrectly was identified as a pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force (R.C.A.F.)

In fact, he was an aircraft mechanic in the R.C.A.F.

The Times regrets any inconvenience this error may have caused.

BDO had another successful year promoting its “Drive Away Hunger” campaign.

We were able to raise a total of what worked out to be 9,621 meals.

The Fort Frances office placed 10th for donations collected out of 106 offices across Canada that participated.

The town will be removing snow more often from local sidewalks this winter.

Thanks to changes to the provincial Minimum Maintenance Standards (MMS), which came into effect back in May, the Operations and Facilities division has had to revise its winter maintenance policy.

The Rainy River District OPP would like to inform the public that the 2019 Canine Unit Calendar is available for purchase at the OPP detachment in Fort Frances.

The calendar showcases beautiful photographs of service dogs from across the province.

The ninth-annual “Stuff-a-Cruiser” campaign is less than a month away and organizers are lining up volunteers to help out.

The event will be held Saturday, Dec. 8 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Safeway, The Place, and Walmart here, Cloverleaf Grocery in Emo, and Beaver Mills Market in Rainy River.

Volunteers will be outside of those locations, collecting food donations from customers.

Infrastructure and Communities minister François-Philippe Champagne and Vicki-May Hamm, president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, yesterday announced more than $4.5 million in funding for 109 new initiatives in communities across Canada.

Another Christmas Bird Count season is just around the corner!

Between Dec. 14 and Jan. 5, tens of thousands of bird and winter enthusiasts will rally together to count millions of birds across the continent as part of the 119th year of this long-running wildlife survey.

“Louis Riel Day” was held Friday and Métis nations around the country celebrated his life as a brave leader and the founding father of Manitoba.

Locally, a flag-raising ceremony was held in front of the Civic Centre. A lunch followed in the Sunset Country Métis Hall, where president Brady Hupet and mayor-elect June Caul shared a few words.

Members of the Rainy River District OPP are requesting the public's assistance in solving five break-and-enters that occurred on the Red Wing Road in the Morson area over the past week.

Unknown culprit(s) entered the seasonal residences and stole numerous items, including alcohol, a generator, a television, and a number of firearms.

The OPP is reminding the community of the dangers of thin ice.

With the colder weather among us, the ice is beginning to form but unstable conditions still are present on many lakes, rivers, and waterways.

This past week, the Kenora OPP responded to three calls for service of youths trying to walk on thin ice.

While Riverside Health Care continues its recruitment efforts for a new administrator at Rainycrest, we have made arrangements with Extendicare Assist for an acting administrator at the home.

Brad Hall and Cathi Allison of Extendicare Assist will serve as administrator at Rainycrest on a rotational basis.

Our rural area is a flurry of activities these days—a sure sign that the Christmas season has arrived!

The annual “Holly Daze” festivities take place Nov. 30-Dec. 1 in Emo.

The parade will be held on the Friday at 6 p.m., with hot chocolate and fireworks afterwards.

The Rainy River District School Board is committed to providing a safe and positive learning environment for all of its students.

Over the years, forestry has played a major role in building the town's economy—and it continues to play an important role in the lives of many residents.

To help today's youth develop a better understanding of the local forestry industry and forestry renewal, now-retired renewal forester Judy Kaufman spoke to a Grade 7 class at St. Francis School on Friday.

The Catholic Women's League at St. Patrick's in Emo will be holding its annual Christmas tea and bake sale this Saturday (Nov. 24) from 1-3 p.m. in the church hall.

There also will be basket draws, as well as religious articles and raisin, apple, and meat pies for sale.

Admission is $5 at the door.

Females are significantly under-represented in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math, making up just 22 percent of the total workforce in these careers, according to Statistics Canada.

If you conjure up an idea of what you wanted to be when you grew up, a mustachioed pilot probably was pretty high up on your list.

There's a reason this is a mainstay in the dream professions of children (and, let's face it, adults, too): it's cool!

The Backus Community Center in International Falls is pleased to announce that Jaime Sjoblom has joined the staff as event and volunteer co-ordinator.

Those who are suffering from a loss are not alone—there are local resources they can access to help address their grief.

In the end they were simply overmatched, but it wasn't for a lack of effort by the Muskie senior girls' basketball team.

The black-and-gold saw their impressive season come to an end as they were swept by the Hammarskjold Vikings at the best-of-three NWOSSAA championship held Friday and Saturday in Thunder Bay.

Focus on the goal at hand and work to get better each day.

That was the mindset of the Muskie girls' hockey team as they headed into a busy slate of games this week.

Here are the sunrise and sunset times for Nov. 22-28:

With their original NorWOSSA regular-season opener against the Kenora Broncos rescheduled to Dec. 15, the Muskie boys' hockey team was able to fine-tune its skills ahead of the season with a trio of scrimmage games Saturday in Warroad, Mn.

With the season officially in the books, it was time to hand out some hardware.

The Muskie football team held its annual awards banquet Monday night at the Copper River Inn.

Taking home the Paul Renaud Most Valuable Player award was wide receiver Riley Argue.

Although it wasn't showing on the scoreboard, Fort Frances Lakers' head coach/general manager Wayne Strachan felt his squad was getting the better of the chances and dictating play Friday night against the visiting Red Lake Miners.

The problem was the Lakers couldn't bury their scoring opportunities while the Miners did in taking a 2-1 lead into the third period.

The Fort Frances PeeWee Leafs claimed the title at the Mankato Meltdown 12U tournament over the weekend with a 4-3 shootout win over Shakopee in the gold-medal game.

Piper Miller scored all three of the Leafs' goals in regulation time while Julia Guertin and Hayden Allam both tallied in the shootout.

A new season has brought with it a new experience for a local wrestler.

Hudson Mann, who was born in Fort Frances but lived in International Falls, has moved to Annandale/Maple Lake, Mn. to fill out a heavyweight spot on the wrestling team there.

Most recently, Mann competed in the Outlaw Middle School Duel Championship at Luther College on Remembrance Day in Decorah, Iowa.

The Fort Frances Canadians unfortunately felt the heat Sunday afternoon at the Ice For Kids Arena.

Jett Mintenko scored twice to pace the North End Flames (Thunder Bay) to a narrow 3-2 win over the Canadians in the gold-medal final of the Fort Frances Minor Hockey Association's annual Bantam 'AA' tournament.

The Sunset Country Squash Club sent 15 players to Thunder Bay over the weekend to battle at the Northwestern Ontario Open tournament.

Winners were from both ends of the spectrum, with veteran Mary-Beth Tkachuk capturing the 'D' title in round-robin play with five-straight wins.

New Gold production driller Maria Vandenbrand, New Gold geologist and health/safety advisor Amy Shute, John Gavel/New Gold welder/operator Kaitlyn Baldwin, and New Gold geologist Lisa McGlinchey spoke to girls in Grades 9-12 about their respective careers for the Skills Ontario's Young Women's Career Exploration Event held Thursday at La Place Rendez-Vous.

Morgan Fulcher, left, and her aunt, Melissa Yellowega, enjoyed some dainties amidst the hustle and bustle of the C.W.L. of St. Mary's Parish's Christmas tea and bazaar held Sunday afternoon. The very popular event featured handmade crafts, draws, a silent auction, and a kids' zone, as well as coffee, tea, and refreshments.

There are plenty of great gift ideas for people who enjoy cold-weather activities.

Brenda Dolph, left, Joy Lockman, Helen Preston, Mary Tank, and Susan Wieler of the Loaves & Fishes soup kitchen here were all smiles last week after receiving donations of $1,467 in cash and 585 pounds of non-perishables courtesy of the BDO Canada “Drive Away Hunger” campaign.

A group of ladies shared big smiles Saturday as they enjoyed a delicious spread during Knox United Church's Christmas luncheon and bake sale. Close to 100 people came through the church basement to purchase some homemade treats and enjoy a hot meal.

Robert Moore students Rilee Armstrong, left, and Georgia Wigdor showed off their winning posters. Armstrong had the top poster in Division 4 (Grades 6-8) while Wigdor won Division 1 (JK/SK).

Sunset Country Métis president Brady Hupet shared some words about Louis Riel at the Métis Hall on Friday following the flag-raising ceremony at the Civic Centre in honour of “Louis Riel Day.” He thanked Mayor Roy Avis for all his service through the years to the Métis community and also welcomed incoming mayor June Caul.

Snow will be removed from town sidewalks more often this winter thanks to changes to the provincial Minimum Maintenance Standards (MMS). One change is the requirement to have the sidewalks cleared within 48 hours of a three-inch (7.5-cm) snowfall.

Peggy Johnson and Rhonda Howells of “Oh For FUDGE Sakes!" offered free samples of their homemade fudge to passers-by during the fourth-annual "Walkin' in a Winter Vendorland” event held Saturday at the Memorial Sports Centre. The pair had a variety of flavours to choose from, including creamsicle, lemon pie, unicorn, s'more, cupcake, banana cream, and many more.

J.W. Walker students Lila Black, left, and Casey Egan proudly displayed their colourful posters. Black's poster won Division 3 (Grades 3-5) while Egan came out on top of Division 2 (Grades 1-2). —Photos courtesy of Rainy River District School Board

Retired renewal forester Judy Kaufman came into a Grade 7 class at St. Francis School on Friday to speak to students about renewable forestry concepts. She touched on her experience working with Resolute Forest Products, where she helped manage re-planting and renewing areas where resources were extracted.

A group of kindergarten students at St. Michael's School recently were recognized by the principal for their environmental efforts.

During the class's nature walk, Logan Dallas, Aela Drombolis, Ainsley Johnson, and Jasper Dennis noticed the school's bike rack was chained to a tree.

The wrong headline was used for a front-page story that jumped to page A6 in yesterday's Times.

The “Spirit of Christmas" jump ended up under a headline that instead referred to the story on "Louis Riel Day.”

The Times regrets any confusion or disappointment this error may have caused.

Members of the Rainy River District OPP had requested the public's assistance in solving five break-and-enters that occurred on the Red Wing Road in the Morson area over the past week.

Unknown culprit(s) entered the residences and stole numerous items, including alcohol, a generator, a television, and a number of firearms.

On Nov. 19, members of the Rainy River District OPP and the Community Street Crime Unit started an investigation into the trafficking of crystal methamphetamine in Rainy River District.

At 6:55 p.m., members of the Atikokan OPP conducted a vehicle stop. Two male occupants were located in the vehicle and subsequently arrested.

This season, “Rhythmic Circus” comes to the Backus stage in International Falls with its trademark blend of live music and tap dance as you've never seen before.

Don't miss out on this wildly-imaginative, “not-so-silent night” the whole family can celebrate together.

The local Legion Ladies' Auxiliary met on Nov. 14, with 32 members in attendance.

The charter was draped in memory of Gloria Bergner.

An election of officers for 2019 was held, with Alfreda Easton to be president, Leslie as first vice, Christina McDougall as second vice, and Josie Miller as treasurer.

The surging Thunder Bay North Stars used a hat trick from Keighan Gerrie to skate to their seventh-straight win in a 6-3 decision over the Fort Frances Lakers in SIJHL action last night at the Fort William Gardens.

It was the St. Thomas Aquinas Saints who went marching in to victory on Tuesday in Kenora.

Jill Calder tallied a second-period goal but it wasn't enough as the Muskie girls' hockey team lost 3-1 to the host Saints to see their NorWOSSA record drop to 1-1.

St. Michael's kindergarten students Jasper Dennis, Ainsley Johnson, Logan Dallas, and Aela Drombolis did a science project entitled “Free the Tree” that looked at their experience trying to better the health of a tree at their school. The four young environmentalists noticed the tree had a chain wrapped around it to hold a bike rack in place and did what they could to help it grow.

SASKATOON—A Saskatchewan scientist is telling a three bears' story that has a very different ending than the familiar fairy tale.

Doug Clark of the University of Saskatchewan said he's got the first recorded proof of grizzly, black, and polar bears all using the same land.

OTTAWA—The federal Liberals have come up with a $16-billion answer to Canada's competitiveness concerns.

Ottawa's long-awaited plan to help Canada compete with the United States for investment dollars is the centrepiece of its latest fall economic statement, which forecasts slightly deeper annual deficits over the coming years.

OTTAWA—The federal government is stepping in to help the struggling Canadian media industry with new tax credits and incentives valued at nearly $600 million over the next five years.

CALGARY — The National Energy Board says crude-by-rail exports from Canada rose to a record 269,829 barrels per day in September.

That’s up more than 17 per cent from 229,544 in August and just over double the 134,132 barrels per day recorded in September 2017.

Total crude exports reached 3.47 million bpd in September, up from 3.31 million a year earlier.

ATLANTA—Vince Carter grabbed his career milestone with a last-second dunk—long after his first NBA team had the victory secured.

Kyle Lowry scored 21 points during his first triple-double of the season and the Toronto Raptors never trailed while beating the reeling Atlanta Hawks 124-108 last night.

EDMONTON—The Calgary Stampeders' beleaguered receiving corps got a bit of good news yesterday as receiver Eric Rogers suggested he'll be good to go against Ottawa on Grey Cup Sunday.

“Everyone's a little banged up at this time of year, some more than others,” Rogers told reporters prior to team practice on the southern campus of the University of Alberta.

NEW ORLEANS—The latest chance for Saints' fans to show Drew Brees their gratitude for the many memorable, triumphant moments he's brought them comes on Thanksgiving night.

The Saints (9-1) are riding an NFL-high, nine-game winning streak as the rival Atlanta Falcons (4-6) land in New Orleans, so don't expect a sleepy crowd in the Superdome no matter how well-fed.

CALGARY—Sam Bennett continues to make the most of increased playing time.

Bennett scored the go-ahead goal and added an assist as the Calgary Flames erupted for five first-period goals, then hung on for a 6-3 victory over the Winnipeg Jets last night.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — A pair of tiny experimental satellites trailing NASA’s InSight spacecraft all the way to Mars face their biggest test yet.

Their mission is to broadcast immediate news of InSight’s plunge through the Martian atmosphere on Monday.

The photos from doctors came quickly and in succession: blood-stained operating rooms, blood-covered scrubs and shoes, bullets piercing body parts and organs.

Look for areas of freezing drizzle late tonight, with an overnight low of minus-five C (23 F) and south winds gusting up to 18 km/h.

Tomorrow will be cloudy but mild, with a high of four (39) and low around minus-four (24)

Expect south winds gusting up to 13 km/h.

Riverside Health Care will hold its next open board meeting today (Nov. 22) at 6 p.m. in the boardroom at Rainycrest Long-Term Care.

The Church of the Holy Spirit will host a “Coffee House” on Friday, Nov. 23, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $5. Enjoy live music, beverages, and dessert, with a penny table and baked goods for sale.

It was a weekend of very different results for the two Muskie hockey teams.

The Dryden Eagles used a late three-goal outburst in the third period to down the Muskie girls' squad 4-1 yesterday afternoon at the Ice For Kids Arena.

The SIJHL announced Thursday the coaches and officials for its all-star game and skills competition, which is slated for this Wednesday (Nov. 28) at the Ice For Kids Arena.

Wayne Strachan of the Fort Frances Lakers was named as head coach for the Team Canada.

Strachan, a five-time recipient of the SIJHL's coach-of-the-year award, also is the winningest coach in league history.

Muskie Issy Taylor and Cali Lappage of the Dryden Eagles both looked to have the quickest stick in the draw during a face-off in the third period of Fort High's 4-1 loss yesterday afternoon at the Ice For Kids Arena. Lappage won the face-off and later scored an empty-netter to hand the Muskies (1-2) their second loss of the NorWOSSA season.

Beth Logue showed off some of the baked goodies she was selling Saturday morning during the Alberton Rec Committee's fifth-annual “Holiday Bazaar” at the Alberton municipal office. Vendors of all ages were selling their wares at the event, which was just one of several holiday-themed bake sales and bazaars held in recent weeks.

TORONTO—General Motors will close its production plant in Oshawa, Ont., along with four facilities in the U.S., as part of a global reorganization that will see the company focus on electric and autonomous vehicle programs.

Canadians can expect a “mixed bag” of winter weather in the coming months, according to The Weather Network.

The network is predicting western Canada will have warmer-than-normal temperatures this winter while the eastern half of the country will experience a long-lasting and colder-than-normal season.

TORONTO—After days of backlash over its cuts to institutions serving francophones, Ontario's Progressive Conservative government says it's making changes meant to recognize the “significant and ongoing” contributions of the Franco-Ontarian community.

VANCOUVER—An opportunistic otter that is preying on koi in a unique downtown Vancouver garden has eaten at least three more of the large fish and continues to evade efforts to trap and remove it.

TORONTO — General Motors is planning to announce the closure of its Oshawa, Ontario, plant Monday, which will eventually result in the loss of about 2,500 jobs.

TORONTO — Canadian kids continue to rank low in a global report on physical activity.

The most recent release from the Active Healthy Kids Global Alliance finds children in Slovenia and Japan to be the most active among 49 countries studied.

MINNEAPOLIS—Once Kirk Cousins and the Minnesota Vikings took the lead on Green Bay, they played with a fierce refusal to let it go.

They held onto the ball with the same determination.

TORONTO—Kawhi Leonard scored 29 points with a typically dominant performance yesterday.

But it was an out-of-character moment that happened after a whistle that was the talk of the Toronto Raptors' locker-room afterward.

Leonard led the league-leading Raptors to a 125-115 victory over veteran Dwyane Wade and his Miami Heat for their fifth-straight win.

EDMONTON—A slick turf couldn't derail Bo Levi Mitchell, Terry Williams, and the Calgary Stampeders.

Mitchell threw two TD passes to earn game MVP honours while Williams had a record 97-yard punt return touchdown as Calgary ended two years of Grey Cup misery with a 27-16 win over the Ottawa Redblacks in the CFL final last night.

GLENDALE, Ariz.—Calgary coach Bill Peters took one on the chin yesterday—and so did the team his Flames dominated, the Arizona Coyotes.

Noah Hanifin and Mark Jankowski each scored twice, and former Coyotes' goalie Mike Smith just missed his 38th career shutout, as the Flames dumped Arizona 6-1.

PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP, Mich. — In a renovated old cash register factory in suburban Detroit, 300 engineers are toiling away on an all-electric pickup truck and an SUV that they hope can take on Tesla.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.—A NASA spacecraft's six-month journey to Mars neared its dramatic grand finale today in what scientists and engineers hoped would be a soft precision landing on flat red plains.

The InSight lander aimed for an afternoon touchdown as anxiety built among those involved in the $1-billion international effort.

MOSCOW — Ukraine’s president demanded Monday that Russia immediately release Ukrainian sailors and ships seized in a standoff around Crimea that sharply escalated tensions between the two countries and drew international concern.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — A NASA spacecraft’s six-month journey to Mars neared its dramatic grand finale Monday in what scientists and engineers hoped would be a soft precision landing on flat red plains.

The InSight lander aimed for an afternoon touchdown, as anxiety built among those involved in the $1 billion international effort.

It will be overcast tonight, with an overnight low of minus-13 C (eight F) and northwest winds gusting up to 20 km/h.

Tomorrow will see some sunny breaks, with a high of just minus-nine (16) and low again around minus-13 (eight).

Look for northwest winds gusting up to 17 km/h.

Cynthia Donald is the 2018 “Citizen of the Year.”

Donald, a retired teacher and longtime volunteer, was honoured by mayor and council at last night's meeting.

In addition to being chairperson of the “Fun in the Sun” committee in recent years, Donald is a Kiwanis Club member and vice-chair of the Rainy River District Festival for the Performing Arts.

A group of local postal workers were out picketing this morning prior to the federal government's legislation that forced them back to work at 11 a.m. today. Local union president Sandra Lange said this was their “last hurrah” before being forced back. The local staff are upset by the legislation and disappointed in the government.

Mayor Roy Avis chatted with Cynthia Donald after she was named the 2018 “Citizen of the Year” during last night's town council meeting at the Civic Centre.

EDMONTON—The Alberta government is opening a new front in its beer war with other provinces by targeting Ontario for what it says are its unfair trade barriers to Alberta-made suds and other alcoholic products.

The initiative emerged yesterday as Alberta announced a full retreat on its own craft beer subsidies that were found by a judge last spring to be unconstitutional.

WINNIPEG—A five-goal performance by the Winnipeg Jets' Patrik Laine on the weekend has netted a Winnipeg man a $1-million prize.

Retail grocer Sobeys automatically draws names of customers before NHL games involving teams in western Canada, and that person can win $1 million if a single player on the team scores five goals.

NEWMARKET, Ont.—A Toronto police officer who stole and ate a pot-laced chocolate bar seized during a raid on an illegal dispensary will have to spend six months under house arrest as part of a sentence to be served in the community, a judge ruled yesterday, saying his actions could not go unpunished.

TORONTO—The union representing workers at the General Motors assembly plant in Oshawa, Ont. is promising “one hell of a fight” after the automaker announced yesterday it would close the location, along with four other facilities in the U.S., as part of a global reorganization.

OTTAWA—Conservative leader Andrew Scheer's campaign for prime minister next year will get some star power from businessman Kevin O'Leary, the two said yesterday in Toronto.

O'Leary ran against Scheer for the Conservative party leadership before dropping out and backing Scheer's main rival, Maxime Bernier.

OTTAWA—Mail service was to resume all across the country at noon today after the Senate passed legislation ordering an end to five weeks of rotating strikes by postal workers.

Royal assent was granted late yesterday shortly after senators approved Bill C-89 by a vote of 53-25.

Four senators abstained.

MONTREAL — Air Canada has signed a definitive agreement to buy the Aeroplan loyalty program from Aimia Inc. for $450 million in cash, confirming the airline as sole owner and bringing closure to credit card customers wondering how long their points would have value.

There has been a dramatic increase in the number of complaints raised against Canada’s telecommunications providers, according to an annual tally released Tuesday by the private-sector body assigned to resolve disputes brought by customers who haven’t been able to get satisfaction directly from their provider.

PHILADELPHIA—Caught at a crossroads between a full-blown rebuild and a legitimate playoff push, the Philadelphia Flyers fired general manager Ron Hextall yesterday—the latest front-office leader to fail to win the franchise's first Stanley Cup in 44 years.

The Flyers might not be done cleaning house.

TORONTO—On a night when Patrick Marleau celebrated his 1,600th NHL game, Mitch Marner did what he does best—make goals.

The 21-year-old winger had three assists in Toronto's 4-2 win over the Boston Bruins last night.

Two were primary assists, upping his NHL-best total to 24 (he has 27 assists in all).

TORONTO—On a night when Patrick Marleau celebrated his 1,600th NHL game, Mitch Marner did what he does best—make goals.

The 21-year-old winger had three assists in Toronto's 4-2 win over the Boston Bruins last night.

Two were primary assists, upping his NHL-best total to 24 (he has 27 assists in all).

CLEVELAND—There's no question the Minnesota Timberwolves have been better since trading disgruntled star Jimmy Butler.

Last night's 102-95 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers improved Minnesota's record to 6-2 since the trade two weeks ago that sent Butler to Philadelphia.

HOUSTON—The Houston Texans wanted to honour their late owner and founder Robert “Bob” McNair, who died last week at age 81.

They knew the perfect way to do that last night was to keep their winning streak going.

LONDON — Lawmakers from nine countries grilled a Facebook executive on Tuesday as part of an international hearing at Britain’s parliament on disinformation and “fake news.”

Richard Allan, Facebook’s vice-president for policy solutions, answered questions in London in place of his boss, CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who ignored repeated requests to appear.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.—Minutes after touching down on Mars, NASA's InSight spacecraft sent back a “nice and dirty” snapshot of its new digs.

Yet the dust-speckled image looked like a work of art to scientists.

The photo revealed a mostly smooth and sandy terrain around the spacecraft, with only one sizable rock visible.

TORONTO — Canadian researchers have added their voices to widespread international condemnation of a Chinese scientist who says he helped create genetically modified twin girls using a gene-editing tool known as CRISPR.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — Minutes after touching down on Mars, NASA’s InSight spacecraft sent back a “nice and dirty” snapshot of its new digs. Yet the dust-speckled image looked like a work of art to scientists.

The photo revealed a mostly smooth and sandy terrain around the spacecraft with only one sizable rock visible.

TIJUANA, Mexico — Many among the more than 5,000 Central American migrants in Tijuana were urgently exploring their options amid a growing feeling that they had little hope of making successful asylum bids in the United States or of crossing the border illegally.

Beef short ribs are a prime example of how the precise control of time and temperature afforded by sous vide cooking can affect a piece of meat.

Monkey bread is a knotty-looking loaf of sweet bread made from balls of dough coated with cinnamon, sugar and melted butter. It’s traditionally served warm so that the sticky baked pieces can be pulled apart. The name “monkey” refers to how you eat this sweet treat—with your hands. Follow this recipe with your kids.

MONKEY BREAD

Servings: 8

This classic rendition of chicken soup starts the old- fashioned way, by making a from-scratch broth. But instead of using a whole chicken we turned to meaty chicken thighs, which kept things easier; they also added intense, meaty flavour to the broth.

Mixed fried seafood or fritto misto di mare can be found throughout Italy; however, the most iconic and evocative incarnation hails from Campania. Indeed, it’s easy to imagine sitting in a Neapolitan trattoria eating crisp, piping hot tidbits of fried seafood while looking out on the Bay of Naples.

Skies will become cloudy tonight, with an overnight low of minus-12 C (10 F) and light south-southwest winds.

Tomorrow will be cloudy, with a high of minus-six (21) and low around minus-eight (17).

Look for southeast winds gusting up to 15 km/h.

Light snow is forecast for Thursday, along with a high of minus-three (26) and low dipping to minus-seven (19).

Christmas is a time when magical memories that last a lifetime are made, so why not make sure this one is special for all district children?

The Kenora-Rainy River Districts Child and Family Services' annual “Adopt an Angel” campaign is underway again, with trees now up at Walmart, The Bargain Shop, and Taggs Source for Sports here, as well as Tompkins Hardware in Emo.

Buying a natural Christmas tree is a win-win—it brings the beauty and aroma of Ontario's forests inside your home for the holidays.

A real tree is eco-friendly and supports the provincial economy. More than 500 farmers produce upwards of one million Christmas trees each year in Ontario.

These trees are not plastic, nor produced and transported from overseas.

A building on the 300 block of Scott Street will be demolished in the near future.

Sometimes, the best part about volunteering is the other volunteers.

At least that's the opinion of Cynthia Donald, who was surprised and humbled to be honoured as the 2018 “Citizen of the Year” for Fort Frances during Monday night's council meeting.

She noted that mayor-elect June Caul had asked her if she wanted to go in the Christmas parade with her this Sunday (Dec. 2).

Do you quilt, cross-stitch, knit, sew, bead, hook, felt, spin, weave, or otherwise craft using textiles?

If so, the Fort Frances Museum & Cultural Centre wants you to enter your creations in its “Fibre Arts Festival 2019.”

The town will be looking at upgrading its White Pine lift station next year.

If you've entered La Verendrye Hospital using the ramp access outside of the E.R. department recently, you may have noticed a little something extra.

On the wall opposite the registration desk is a map of a different kind.

Using bold graphics underscored with precise labelling is a new visual resource for stroke survivors, their families, and caregivers.

T'was a month before the holidays with shoppers about. This also meant that, unfortunately, criminals were out!

There are a number of ways to ensure your purchases make it to the right person and do not end up stolen.

The OPP is encouraging citizens to “Lock It or Lose It.”

It's that magic time of the year and one district event that makes this true is the annual “Holly Daze” festivities in Emo taking place this Friday and Saturday (Nov. 30-Dec. 1).

The parade goes on Friday at 6 p.m., followed by the tree-lighting ceremony and a fireworks display.

Hot chocolate also will be served.

The Borderland Community Orchestra will spread holiday cheer through music this Sunday (Dec. 2) starting at 2 p.m. at the Backus Community Center in International Falls.

A lot can be learned from the collaborative efforts taking place between Rainy River First Nations and the Royal Ontario Museum.

The Fort Frances Choraliers are getting ready to perform this year's Christmas cantata three times over the next few weekends.

A group of about 50 women and men will perform “Good News from Home” at 1:30 p.m. this Sunday (Dec. 2) for residents at Rainycrest Long-Term Care here.

The Rainy River School Board's new student trustee sat down with a group of fellow students earlier this month to discuss their input for the province's education consultation.

According to the organizers and everyone who attended, the Church of the Holy Spirit's first-ever “Coffee House” on Friday evening was a total success.

The interior of the building magically was transformed into a welcoming space, complete with small tables, “coffee bean candle” centerpieces, and the soft glow of colourful Christmas lights.

The Rainy River District School Board recently participated in an array of anti-bullying and inclusion activities for Ontario Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week (Nov. 18-24).

Students at Crossroads School in Devlin kicked off the week last Monday by holding an assembly with the message that “kindness is cooler.”

Transportation minister Jeff Yurek visited a maintenance facility on Friday to announce the province is making the winter commute easier by allowing drivers to track their plow and plan their route all at one stop: the Ontario 511 website.

“Keeping Ontario's highways as safe as possible during winter weather conditions is a top priority for our government,” said Yurek.

With transport drivers in increasingly high demand, Confederation College has partnered with the Northern Academy of Transportation Training (NATT) to launch a new AZ truck driver program in Northwestern Ontario.

It has been developed in direct response to the growing need for qualified drivers both in the region and across Canada.

It's been a rough start to the NorWOSSA regular season for the Muskie boys' hockey team.

Not in terms of how they've played but in how depleted the roster has become due to a rash of early injuries.

The Muskies headed into Friday's home-opener against the defending NorWOSSA champion Sioux Lookout Warriors with three defencemen on the shelf and knew they would be in tough.

The province has launched a better way for hunters and anglers across the province to get their Outdoors Cards, as well as hunting and fishing licensing products.

“Our government is making life easier and allowing you to get outdoors quicker,” said Natural Resources and Forestry minister John Yakabuski.

The provincial government is working to make the moose draw fairer, more accessible, and simpler for hunters by updating its approach to managing moose.

Over the next two years, the government intends to work with an advisory committee, which will review how tag quotas are developed, how hunters apply for tags, and the current allocation process.

Here are the sunrise and sunset times for Nov. 29-Dec. 5:

Isaiah Allam's goal with just 1:28 to go lifted the Current River Comets to a 2-1 win over the Westfort Rangers on Sunday afternoon at the Ice For Kids Arena in the 'A' final of the Fort Frances Minor Hockey Association's annual Midget 'A' tournament.

After a scoreless first period, Cole Lambert of the Comets found himself on a breakaway with just over six minutes left in the second.

A year later and the mindset is still the same for the Muskie junior girls' volleyball team: win NorWOSSA gold.

The black-and-gold head into this season having done exactly that back in February, when they swept the host Dryden Eagles 3-0 in the final to cap an impressive season in which they compiled a 7-1 record during the regular season.

Oct. 31 marked the official end of the 2018 fire season in Ontario.

In a year marked by large, problematic forest fires burning relatively close to populations, properties, and major travel corridors in the province's Northeast Region, a busy albeit less visible fire season unfolded in the more remote corners of the Northwest Region.

There were more winners in the Rainy River District Mutual Aid Association's weekly cash calendar draw.

Winning $30 for Nov. 18-24 were Renee Perry (Atikokan), Peter Neilson (Emo), Kendall McClain (Fort Frances), Bill Galusha (Fort Frances), Doug Moynhan (Thunder Bay), Terry and Cheryl Beadle (Devlin), and Vance Hemphill (Devlin).

It will be a season full of learning for the youthful Muskie girls' hockey team.

The black-and-gold were taken to school by the more experienced Dryden Eagles on Sunday afternoon, with the visitors using a three-goal outburst late in the third period to snag a valuable two points with a 4-1 win in NorWOSSA action at the Ice For Kids Arena.

It's all systems go for the Muskie senior and junior boys' basketball teams.

Both teams were able to get in some game action recently in order to fine-tune their skills ahead of their NorWOSSA regular-season opener next Tuesday (Dec. 4) against the host Kenora Broncos.

The Fort Frances Lakers knew this recent stretch of games was going to be tough for them.

The last four all came against the first- and second-place teams in the SIJHL in the Thunder Bay North Stars and Red Lake Miners.

Unfortunately for the Lakers, all ended in losses, including a pair of 5-2 setbacks to those clubs over the weekend here.

Volunteers Susan Chiasson, left, and Johanna Strahl got ready for the next round of gift-buying customers during the C.W.L. of St. Mary's Parish's Christmas tea and bazaar on Nov. 18. The very popular event featured handmade crafts, draws, a silent auction, and a kids' zone, as well as coffee, tea, and refreshments.

Marg Bogacki, left, and Priscilla Wright showed off some of the fresh baking that was sold at the Knox United Church's Christmas bake sale and luncheon held Nov. 17. Soups, sandwiches, and delicious desserts were served up to those who attended.

Mayor Roy Avis said Monday evening that his 21 years on town council has been both challenging and rewarding, and he wished the incoming mayor and council all of the best.

FCpl. Maxwell VanDrunen, left, and FSgt. Courtney Sinclair of the 908 Rainy Lake Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron were selling baked goods Saturday morning at The Bargain Shop here. The air cadets are raising funds to travel to Europe for the 75th anniversary of D-Day in June, 2019.

Courtney Yatchuk, left, offered a plate of finger sandwiches to her grandmother, Alice Pollard, during the annual Christmas tea, bazaar, and bake sale held Saturday afternoon at the Zion Lutheran Church. The event was the most recent in a series of opportunities to socialize and stock up on goodies and gifts for the holiday season.

Dawn Gray, interim store manager at The Bargain Shop here, arranged the tags with names on them on Saturday. It is just one of the district stores with “Adopt an Angel” trees in them this holiday season.

Mayor Roy Avis and mayor-elect June Caul presented the 2018 “Citizen of the Year” Cynthia Donald with a plaque and bouquet during Monday night's council meeting at the Civic Centre.

Jasper Dennis, left, and her brother, Blase, were selling their homemade wares—cookies and fridge magnets—on Saturday during the Alberton Rec Committee's fifth-annual “Holiday Bazaar” at the Alberton municipal office. The popular event was just one of several holiday-themed bake sales and bazaars held in recent weeks.

Jolene Richert had her kitchen gadgets and spices on display during the fourth-annual “Winter Vendorland” that took place in the Memorial Sports Centre auditorium on Nov. 17. More than 20 vendors set up tables featuring their wares, with many offering locally-produced products and goods that work great as a gift for the holiday season.

Sam Arbuckle, left, and Dr. Robert Green were among those who dropped by the annual Christmas tea hosted by St. John's Anglican Church back on Nov. 17. More than 50 people turned out to enjoy homemade baking, meat pies, draws, a mystery gift table, and quality time with friends.

Paislee Christiansen got help from fellow Crossroad student Kolton McCormick during a craft-making session for Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week. For the craft, students partnered up, read the story “Snippets,” built paper houses with scrapbooking paper, celebrated the differences each home had, and worked together to build a little paper house community.