by Karina Hunter

White River Economic Development Officer, James Bernardi in front of the White River's Winnie the Pooh Statue.

White River has recently welcomed a new Economic Development Officer, James Bernardi, who is looking forward to the challenge of finding new business alternatives for the struggling Northshore community.  He and Mayor Angelo
Bazzoni have been discussing many options, among them, the idea of collaborations with neighbouring Manitouwadge in regards to snowmobile and ATV tourism. 

Speaking with Bernardi this week, he explained that hopes are that the once popular Superior Snow Challenge Loop might be revisited on a smaller scale as a strategy for welcoming sledders to the communities.  In the past, many of our US snowmobile and ATV tourists have based their adventures out of Wawa, Ontario, primarily because of the availability of nearby destinations for 3-4 day excursions, especially in regards to ATV Tours.   Bernardi hopes that White River, Manitouwadge and possibly Hillsport might offer the same type of 3-4 day touring options. 

Bernardi has been busy getting to know the residents, businesses and organizations within White River but hopes to be in touch with Manitouwadge EDO Dave Raymond in the near future to discuss ideas for possible collaborations that might be possible between the two communities.  When asked about his opinion Raymond stated that “I look forward to meeting with them to discuss future partnerships that could be established between Manitouwadge and White River”. 

Submitted to The Echo & Chronicle Journal 09.19.09