Around the North

North Bay received $3 million from FedNor for five economic development-related initiatives.

Two major industry unions are exploring the possibility of merging by mid-2013.

The two-year extension of the Canada-U.S. softwood lumber agreement is being lauded as “good news” by Ontario and Quebec forest industry groups.

Algoma University is the recipient of funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) for a research project that may provide clues into the environmental impact of alternative energy strategies such as solar power and wind turbines on Canadi

The Ontario Superior Court of Justice has granted Ernst & Young approval to sell St. Marys Paper Corp. in Sault Ste. Marie. Ernst & Young was appointed manager and receiver for the mill after it went into receivership Dec.

Northern College has received $750,000 from Hydro One to support its electrical engineering technician and technology programs and to enhance recruitment.

Phase two of Sault College's campus rebuild is getting underway with the replacement of the student centre. The current student centre, The Outback, will be demolished to make way for a 45,000-square-foot health and wellness centre.

Cliffs Natural Resources expects public and private investment in a transportation corridor to process and export Ring of Fire chromite.

The North Bay Mining Association hosts its Hall of Fame gala, May 3. The association established the gala dinner in 2001 to recognize those who have made a significant contribution in the city's mining service and supply scene.

Sioux Lookout is doing some administrative restructuring in a cost-cutting move to finalize its 2012 budget. The municipality is combining the public works and development services.