The Giant News

Terrace Bay Pulp owes millions

2012-02-02T07:15:00.001-05:00

Terrace Bay Pulp owes millions of dollars to businesses across the Country and in the United States. That figure is from the CCAA monitor Ernst and Young who released a list of the Mill's outstanding debts recently. The company filed for CCAA bankruptcy protection last week.

Pedestrian struck by car

2012-02-01T19:05:00.000-05:00

City police are investigating a car-pedestrian accident which sent one person to hospital. They say it took place at around 6:40 pm Wednesday at the intersection of Cumberland and River. They say paramedics stabilized the victim and then took her to the Health Science's Centre with unknown injuries.

City couple win$ big

2012-02-01T18:26:00.001-05:00

A Thunder Bay couple are almost one million dollars richer thanks to a recent lottery win. Allan and Darlene Maki won 983 thousand dollars in the January 21st. Lottario draw. The couple has been married for 37 years and plan to share their winnings with their family, pay off some bills, take a vacation and put away the rest in their savings.

Grann grilled over record keeping

2012-02-01T17:51:00.003-05:00

The trial of city police officer Toni Grann is continuing. In cross examination Wednesday, prosecutor Marc Huneault got Grann to admit that on two occasions, that as the administrator of the local file in the Ontario Sex Offender Registry, she didn't force the convicted offenders to update their file in person as required by the law. In her defense Grann told Huneault that in one case the person was confined to a wheelchair and so she used existing information on file about the person. In earlier testimony, Grann portrayed a system she felt was not organized on various levels. Grann is charged with Breach of Trust in connection with falsified records in the registry.

Hyer to hold Budget Meetings

2012-02-01T17:40:00.003-05:00

MP Bruce Hyer wants to know what his constituents want in the upcoming Federal Budget. Hyer says he's planning on holding information meetings in the area with NDP finance critic Peter Julien. Hyer says the meeting in Thunder Bay will take place next Friday at the Prince Arthur Hotel from 7:30 to 9pm.

Transit City could be coming back to life

2012-02-01T17:37:00.003-05:00

A looming legal battle at Toronto City Hall could have major implications for Thunder Bay. A recent statement from a Toronto legal firm said Mayor Rob Ford didn't have the authority to kill the transit city light rail plan. MPP Bill Mauro says the report has reopened the debate that could see Toronto Council go back to the original plan that saw lots of work for the Bombardier plant.

"I wasn't hiding anything"

2012-02-01T14:15:00.002-05:00

Toni Grann (left) leaves courthouse

City Police officer Toni Grann took the stand in her Breach of Trust trial. Grann is charged with falsifying records in the Ontario Sex Offender Registry. On the stand this morning Grann painted a picture of a system that she felt wasn't organized on various levels. She sited an example of how she got so busy that she had to make deals with some uniformed officers to get verifying addresses of some local sex offenders. She told the court "I wasn't hiding anything." Under cross examination she says she did not have all convicted sex offenders come to the police station to register even though it was required by law.

LUSU holds rally

2012-02-01T10:35:00.002-05:00

Over 200 people will be taking part in a rally at Lakehead University today. Student Union President Mike Snoddon says it's a call for increased funding and participation from the Federal Government. The LU rally is part of the Federation of Student's National Day of Action.

Toni Grann to take stand today

2012-02-01T09:46:00.002-05:00

City Police Constable Toni Grann will take the stand today. Her London, Ontario Lawyer Clay Powell says she's been waiting to tell her side of the story for over two years. The Crown rested its case yesterday. Grann is facing 11 charges of Breach of Trust in connection with falsified local records in the Ontario Sex Offender Registry.

NWO needs its own weather rodent

2012-02-01T09:45:00.002-05:00

It's Ground Hog Day Thursday and our meteorologist wants Northwestern Ontario to get its own prognostic rodent. Bill Laidlaw says the region can no longer depend on Southern Ontario's Wiarton Willie. Laidlaw says we're going to have a late start to Spring but the rest of Winter will be warmer than normal.

Ignace has Mayoral vacancy

2012-02-01T09:41:00.000-05:00

Ignace Council is accepting the resignation of Mayor Lee Kennard with regret. Municipal officials say they haven't had a chance to sit down with Council and discuss the options of filling the vacancy.

Budget takes centre stage at City Hall

2012-01-31T21:33:00.000-05:00

The Budget process is underway at City Hall. An overview of the budget was given to council Monday night that came complete with a 2.67 percent tax increase. City Manager Tim Commisso says costs need to be controlled to make a good budget. He said extensive meetings have been held to go over the costs for every department. More Budget meetings will be held next week.

Kaszycki speaks out

2012-01-31T15:41:00.004-05:00

Some critics are surprised that as the McGuinty government's Ring of Fire coordinator, Christine Kaszycki hasn't visited camps in the mining zone. Kaszycki defends the decision saying there have been other priorities which included getting to know the communities affected by the massive development. Kaszycki says as a geologist by trade she has visited many exploration sites.

Medical stop at Thunder Bay airport

2012-01-31T14:53:00.000-05:00

An Air Canada flight from Winnipeg to Toronto made an unscheduled stop at the Thunder Bay airport this morning at around 10 o'clock. Manager Scott McFadden says it was due to a medical emergency. McFadden says the patient on the Airbus A-319 was taken to the Health Science's Centre.

NAN talks energy in far north

2012-01-31T12:08:00.000-05:00

Chiefs from across the Nishnawbe Aski Nation are meeting in Thunder Bay this week talking about the lack of energy infrastructure in the far north. Deputy Grand Chief Les Louttit says they want to come up with a plan by the end of the three day conference. Louttit says the Provincial and Federal Government's have a role to play in getting communities onto the hydro grid.

Stabbing suspect turns himself in

2012-01-31T11:52:00.002-05:00

Police say that they have a 15 year old boy in custody in connection with a stabbing earlier this month. They say he was the last of the 4 people officials say were involved in the incident at Junot and Red River Road. Police say the youth turned himself in.

Youth educators plan conference

2012-01-31T11:27:00.000-05:00

About 200 early childhood educators from the district are converging in Thunder Bay next month. The Social Services Administration Board is holding a conference that organizer Marnie Tarzia believes will lead to some new thinking.

Pellet gun brings out the police dogs

2012-01-31T10:27:00.001-05:00

City police are breathing a sigh of relief that a weapons call this morning turned into a false alarm. They say that just after 9 a concerned person called to report that a teen was seen in the backyard of a Belrose Road home with a gun. After closing down the area and bringing in the sniffer dogs, police say it turned out to be a pellet gun. No one was hurt and there are no charges being laid.

Alex Cameron bursary created

2012-01-31T09:55:00.000-05:00

A former Lakehead Pioneer is being honoured through a new bursary. The Lakehead Public School Board recently created the Alex Cameron Bursary for students who want to attend a Canadian University for Engineering. Alex Cameron lived in Thunder Bay from 1863 to 1952.

NAN Energy Conference Today

2012-01-31T05:46:00.001-05:00

The Nishnawbe Aski Nation is hosting a three day conference on First Nation energy needs. Area Chiefs will talk about energy issues, and what needs to be done to improve the energy distribution. Speakers at the conference will include reps from the Federal and Provincial Governments and First Nations. The event kicks off today at the Valhalla Inn.

Bohonos is Howarth's replacement

2012-01-31T05:30:00.000-05:00

The Thunder Bay North Stars are bringing in Lonny Bohonos to be their interim coach. The move comes after Todd Howarth resigned.

Core Services Review process is getting a big look

2012-01-30T23:40:00.001-05:00

The Mayor is keenly looking forward to the Core Services Review Process. An initial report that included the city's golf courses was presented to council Monday night and Mayor Hobbs says fiscal responsibility needs to be addressed. Hobbs says he's been in favour of selling the Municipal Golf Course for a long time. Hobbs also says he thinks all services need to be looked at. He said he doesn't think there needs to be sweeping changes but it's time to be fiscally responsible. The golf courses won't be back to council until the end of March. City Manager Tim Commisso says the second phase of the Review will include the Conservatory.

Cell Towers discussed again

2012-01-30T23:15:00.001-05:00

The Bell Mobility towers made its way to council again Monday night. Councillor Aldo Ruberto tried to get council to vote against sending a letter to the Federal Government that stated Bell held public meetings. Councillor Marc Bentz says the question was never about whether or not council likes the towers. Bentz says all the concerns will be forwarded to Industry Canada and will be considered before any decision is made.

Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute is booming

2012-01-30T19:58:00.001-05:00

The Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute spoke to council to give them an overview on how the organization has grown since Council's initial 5 million dollar investment. CEO Michael Power says before the investment the Regional Health Sciences Centre had 3 supported Scientists now there is 13. Power says the TBRRI has brought in 70 million dollars in direct and indirect economic activity. Power says the next step is to commercialize the research being done here and to see the economic success stay.

LHIN CEO welcomes new duties

2012-01-30T15:26:00.000-05:00

Ontario's local health integration networks will be given responsibility for family doctors. The CEO of the Northwest LHIN, Laura Kokocinski, says her organization is prepared to make it work. She says they welcome the news since it'll move the health care system to one that is more patient focused. Health Minister Deb Matthews says the LHIN's will help ensure patients have a more seamless experience between doctor and hospital.

LUSU holding daycare centre vote

2012-01-30T13:45:00.002-05:00

The Student Union at Lakehead University is hoping students dig a bit deeper. Spokesperson Neva Bassingthwite says LUSU is holding a referendum on increasing student fees by five dollars to help build a new daycare centre, adding it's become increasingly clear the current centre isn't meeting the needs of students. The voting will take place over three days next month.

Three locals to take part in suit

2012-01-30T12:27:00.000-05:00

We are just days away from a class action harassment lawsuit being filed against the RCMP. Thunder Bay lawyer Sandy Zaitzeff says there could be up to 120 plaintiffs in this case including three in our city. Zaitzeff says it could take years to settle the suit which alleges women in the RCMP faced on the job harassment

Grann trial underway

2012-01-30T11:37:00.000-05:00

The trial of a city police officer is back on at the Ontario Court of Justice. 44 year old Constable Toni Grann has pleaded not guilty to 11 counts of Breach of Trust. The charges involve falsified local records in the Ontario Sex Offender Registry

LRCA releases water quality report

2012-01-30T11:30:00.001-05:00

The Lakehead Regional Conservation Authority is embarking on improving water quality in Rosslyn. Spokesperson Bob Hartley says a recent water quality report shows septic systems in the community are potential threats to the two municipal wells. Hartley adds homeowners will need to have their septic systems inspected. A series of public meetings on the water quality report will be held next week. Thunder Bay's water source Lake Superior came through with flying colours with no potential threats to water quality.

Feds cut off Energy Grant Program

2012-01-30T10:56:00.000-05:00

EcoSuperior is surprised the Federal Government has cut short its registration period for the ecoEnergy for Houses program. The program provides money to homeowners who make improvements to their home that will save energy. Executive Director Ellen Mortfield says the program was supposed to end in March. People already signed up for the program have until June 30th to have their follow up home evaluation.

Nash in T.Bay today

2012-01-30T10:50:00.003-05:00

Federal NDP leadership hopeful Peggy Nash is campaigning in Thunder Bay today. Nash says if she's elected to Party Leader she will work to improve regional economic plans and secure funding for public transit. Nash feels the Prime Minister is using the gun registry to get votes in specific ridings in the North. Nash says she believes in Leader Jack Layton's gun registry plan that included public consultation over what annoys the public about the registry.

Ontario Scotties Results

2012-01-30T05:15:00.002-05:00

A big upset at the 2012 Ontario Scotties Tournament of Hearts. Tracy Horgan from Sudbury toppled the previously unbeaten Rachel Homan foursome from Ottawa 7-6 in Sunday afternoon's final at the Kenora Curling Club. Horgan now advances to the 2012 National Scotties Tournament of Hearts in Red Deer, Alberta next month.

Howarth steps down

2012-01-30T05:14:00.001-05:00

The head coach of the Thunder Bay North Stars is stepping down for personal reasons. Todd Howarth told the ownership board and SIJHL of his decision recently. The team's ownership group will make an announcement on Howarth's replacement in the near future. Howarth is the longest serving coach in SIJHL history.

Missing Man Found Dead

2012-01-29T09:16:00.002-05:00

A post mortem exam will be held tomorrow for 31-year-old missing Terrace Bay man Gregory Muckaday. OPP found Muckaday yesterday in a forested area near the community. They have been searching for him since Monday and do not suspect foul play.

Closed-Door Meeting

2012-01-28T10:35:00.000-05:00

Little is being said about a closed-door meeting this week in Thunder Bay involving Mayors from four northwestern Ontario communities and the CEO of Resolute Forest Products. The mayors of Fort Frances, Kenora, Ignace and Thunder Bay were asked to meet with Richard Garneau Tuesday. Fort Mayor Roy Avis isn't saying much about what was discussed.

MPP Invites Health Minister to Region

2012-01-28T10:32:00.002-05:00

No word yet on whether Ontario's Health Minister will consider an invite to visit to the Kenora-Rainy River riding. MPP Sarah Campbell issued the invite to Deb Matthews so she could hear first hand about the challenges faced in the region's health care sector. The ongoing efforts to staff the Rainy River Health Centre's emergency department was among issues prompting the MPP to issue the invite.

New website hopes to connect Thunder Bay

2012-01-27T17:41:00.002-05:00

Do you want to know whats going on in Thunder Bay, well a new website is hoping to be able to answer your questions. OUTLETPOWERED has just launched and the site will help events, organizations, people or businesses connect with the community. Founder Kayla Quinn says sometimes it's hard to connect with things you are passionate about and this site will help bring it all together. Quinn hopes to open a physical location this summer that will give people a place to meet and discuss all things Thunder Bay.

Lakehead Public Board embraces Twitter

2012-01-27T17:26:00.003-05:00

The Lakehead Public School Board is embracing Twitter. Communications Officer Bruce Nugent says the board sees social media as a way to stay connected to students and parents and since they've started using Twitter, traffic on the Board's website has increased. Nugent says he wants to do a survey to see if social media increases awareness about what's happening at the schools.

Police close Kam River hole case

2012-01-27T17:19:00.002-05:00

The hole in the ice on the Kam River is now a closed case. Police say they received a call from a person who fell through the ice Wednesday night and managed to get themselves out. Police says the person is in fine health and the case is closed.

Michael Kelly sentenced to life

2012-01-27T14:42:00.000-05:00

The jury has found Michael Kelly guilty of First Degree Murder in the death of Judie Thibault. The Alberta man was sentenced to life in prison with no parole for 25 years. He was charged in the death that happened in 2000, although Thibault's body wasn't found until 2004. Thibault's family is happy with the verdict.

Collision sends pedestrian to hospital

2012-01-27T14:36:00.001-05:00

A 25 year old woman is lucky to have only minor injuries after being hit by a car. The woman and 2 others started walking across Oliver Road towards the Hospital after being motioned by a motorist. An eastbound car hit the woman and she was taken to the hospital. Police say no charges have been laid at this time.

Terrace Bay Pulp is under creditors protection

2012-01-26T17:10:00.000-05:00

The situation for Terrace Bay Pulp has gone from bad to worse. The mill is under creditors protection. Forestry Minister Michael Gravelle couldn't be reached but did send us a statement saying he hopes the facility can return to successful operation under new ownership.

OPP looking into fatal fire

2012-01-26T16:19:00.003-05:00

OPP are investigating a fatal fire in Red Lake. The Blaze tore through a house yesterday and destroyed the building. OPP says a 49 year old woman was found inside the fire and they say the cause isn't suspicious.

An ice hole causes some tense moments

2012-01-26T16:19:00.000-05:00

A hole in the ice on the Kam River lead to police searching the area. Police Spokesperson Julie Tilbury says people in the area over the lunch hour say they saw foot prints leading to the hole. Tilbury says a search turned up nothing and if anyone did fall through they likely escaped.

OPP still looking for missing Terrace Bay man

2012-01-26T15:49:00.000-05:00

OPP in Terrace Bay are still looking for a missing 31 year old man. Greg Muckaday hasn't been seen since early Monday morning at his house. A picture of the man can be seen on our news page.

Police make major drug bust

2012-01-26T13:52:00.000-05:00

Over 130 thousand dollars worth of marijuana is off the streets thanks to a huge police bust. Officers searched a pickup truck and a house Monday and found over 14 pounds of marijuana and cash. A 27 year old man and 26 year old woman have been arrested and are facing several charges.

No change for Hobbs on golf

2012-01-26T11:49:00.000-05:00

There's no change in Keith Hobbs stand on city golf courses. He still believes at least one of them should be sold. His comments come as a new report states the courses will never make money. That report goes before city council on Monday.

Bartley stays LRCA chair

2012-01-26T10:18:00.000-05:00

No change at the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority. Bill Bartley is back as Chair of the LRCA. It follows the Annual General Meeting. Donna Blunt returns as Vice-Chair.

Move over Motor City

2012-01-26T09:44:00.001-05:00

Minneapolis TV stations will begin broadcasting in Thunder Bay on Shaw Cable starting on Tuesday. The company has been calling it's subscribers with an automated system informing them of the changeover from the Detroit and Rochester stations. The CRTC gave permission for the switch late last year.

Jury to begin deliberations today

2012-01-26T06:43:00.000-05:00

The Michael Kelly murder trial is about to go to the jury. Justice John Wright will be giving his instructions to them this morning. In his closing address Crown Attorney Dan Mitchell told the six men and six women that there can be no doubt , based on the evidence presented, that Kelly was the killer of Judie Thibault He says the evidence showed Kelly told an undercover officer facts that only the killer would know about the case including the 22 calibre gun, the shot to the back of the head and the carpet her body was wrapped in.

Golf report sets course debate on fire

2012-01-25T17:28:00.000-05:00

The debate on if the city should sell the city run golf courses is raging. A report is coming to council Monday that shows the courses will never make money. Councillor Andrew Foulds says while no decisions will be made for months, he thinks this is just another attack on public services. Councillor Ken Boshcoff on the other hand says if there is a time to sell it is now.

Murder trial winds down

2012-01-25T14:26:00.004-05:00

The closing arguments are complete in the Michael Kelly murder trial. In his final address to the jury Defense Lawyer Gil Labine said it would be up to them to decide whether Kelly would lie to an undercover police officer, to get his hands on half a million dollars being offered to him to confess to the killing of Judie Thibault. Labine also showed them that the so called hold back evidence that Kelly told undercover officers about, was information that was known in the community through various means including police news releases. Kelly is charged with First Degree Murder in Thibaults death.

Lakeshore collision turns tragic

2012-01-25T14:11:00.001-05:00

A 9 year old girl has succumbed to her injuries after Monday's collision on Lakeshore Drive. OPP say Paige Matte-Gurney died yesterday in hospital. The other injured child is still in hospital.

NDP's Peggy Nash coming to T.Bay

2012-01-25T11:56:00.001-05:00

You can have a pub night with the latest NDP Leadership candidate to come to Thunder Bay. Peggy Nash will be in the City on Monday and is hosting a "pub night" at Tony and Adams for NDP supporters. The event runs from 7 until 9.

Feds can do more for First Nation drug problem

2012-01-25T11:43:00.002-05:00

Thunder Bay MP Bruce Hyer wants the Federal Government to subsidize a new drug treatment for people addicted to prescription drugs. Hyer says more needs to be done to help area First Nations that are experiencing a prescription drug abuse epidemic. Hyer says the Federal Government needs to scrap the Methadone treatment in favour of a new drug that is more effective.

Hyer on PM meeting with First Nations

2012-01-25T11:42:00.001-05:00

Tuesday's meeting between the Prime Minister and Canada's First Nations people is being panned. This time the bad review is coming from MP Bruce Hyer. The local MP thinks the PM should have made more of an effort towards scrapping the Indian Act.

Hudak at Confederation College Thursday

2012-01-25T11:40:00.000-05:00

The leader of the Progressive Conservatives is coming to Thunder Bay today to talk about modernizing the province's apprenticeship system. Tim Hudak will be speaking to Confederation College students about what he would like to see happen with the system.

Rafferty says McGuinty passing the buck

2012-01-25T11:39:00.000-05:00

MP John Rafferty says Premier Dalton McGuinty is passing the buck when he claims First Nations are a Federal responsibility. Rafferty says that's not the case since the Province of Ontario signed both the Treaty three and nine treaties. The local MP says the McGuinty Government has failed to provide equal funding for first nation education.

OPP still searching Highway 17

2012-01-25T10:35:00.000-05:00

Highway 17 between Marathon and Ney's Provincial Park is closed due to a police investigation. It stems from an early morning incident involving OPP trying to stop a vehicle near Terrace Bay. During the chase the car hit the ditch. The two suspects in the car fled; one man has been caught the other remains at large. OPP are requesting motorists NOT to pick up hitchhikers and to report any pedestrians observed on Highway 17 between Terrace Bay and Marathon.

Softwood Lumber deal for 2 more years

2012-01-25T10:08:00.001-05:00

Canada has quietly extended the Softwood Lumber Agreement for another two years. The deal will now expire in 2015. Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford says while softwood lumber exports have been declining in recent years, the deal does provide market certainty for producers.

ORNGE lay offs

2012-01-25T10:05:00.000-05:00

There are no cuts being made to ORNGE posts in Northwestern Ontario. 18 jobs were cut at the Province's air ambulance headquarters in Mississauga. The cuts are being made as a way to reduce costs. The restructuring only affects office positions and not pilots or paramedics.

Highway closed near Marathon

2012-01-25T08:51:00.000-05:00

Highway 17 between Marathon and Neys Provincial Park is closed due to a police investigation. OPP Constable Dave Shaw says the Trans Canada has been closed in both directions, west from Marathon and east from Terrace Bay. OPP are requesting motorists not to pick up hitchhikers and to report any pedestrians observed on Highway 17 between Terrace Bay and Marathon. Police say they are looking for two suspects as part of the probe.

Roadway subject of open house

2012-01-24T18:41:00.000-05:00

The public is having its say on proposals for the Junot Avenue and Golf Links Road area. Residents came out to an open house Tuesday to get an idea of what might happen on that stretch of city roadway. Development Services Manager Mark Smith promises all ideas will be taken seriously. A consultant's ideas for the corridor were the centrepiece of the open house.

Leaders walk away unsatisfied.

2012-01-24T15:58:00.003-05:00

The Chief of the Fort William First Nation isn't too thrilled about today's meeting with the Prime Minister. Peter Collins says that he and other Aboriginal leaders didn't get the commitment they were looking for on a number of issues. He also wasn't satisfied that Stephen Harper did not make a move to scrapping the Indian Act, a demand from many of the Aboriginal leaders in attendance at today's conference. Meantime, Nishnawbe Aski Grand Chief Stan Beardy says he was hoping for an update on treaty relationships, but that didn't happen. The Grand Chief says a hundred years later and they're still waiting for the Government to do their part on the treaties.

Ruberto wants more say in location of cell towers

2012-01-24T14:53:00.002-05:00

Bell Mobility Towers garnered some more discussion at council. Councillor Aldo Ruberto took issue with the fact that Bell wants to build 3 very tall towers instead using existing ones. Development Services Manager Mark Smith said he thinks people understand that these towers are needed to support technology that we want to use. In the end council voted to send a letter to the Federal Government confirming that Bell held public consultations.

Grand Chief attracts national media

2012-01-24T14:43:00.000-05:00

Nishanawbe Aski Grand Chief Stan Beardy is one of many First Nations leaders who are in Ottawa today meeting with Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Prior to the gathering the Grand Chief was interviewed by the national media on his concerns heading into the conference.

Hobbs has high praise for Noront

2012-01-24T13:33:00.000-05:00

Mayor Hobbs is excited about prospects for the "other" player in the Ring of Fire mining zone. In a speech to the Thunder Bay Rotary Club, Hobbs praised Noront Resources for its plans for the mineral rich area. He says we are finding out quickly that Cliff's Natural Resources isn't the only player there. Noront is making a presentation in the near future to council on it's Eagle's Nest project.

OPP look for missing man

2012-01-24T11:51:00.002-05:00

Schreiber OPP are looking for a missing 31 year old Terrace Bay man. Greg Muckaday was last seen during the early morning hours of January 23 at his home. He's described as 6 feet 2 inches tall, and weighs 160 pounds. Muckaday was last seen wearing a brown sweater jacket, blue jeans, and snow pants. A variety of law enforcement organizations are currently searching the Terrace Bay area for the missing man.

Waterloo Mac's Mart Robbery

2012-01-24T11:19:00.001-05:00

Police are releasing pictures and video of the man who robbed a Mac's Convenience Store over the weekend. The suspect is described as being slim and standing six feet tall. He was wearing a black toque, black jacket, grey shirt and pants. On Saturday, someone robbed the Waterloo Street Mac's with a large knife.

Lakehead continues Dean search

2012-01-24T09:05:00.000-05:00

Lakehead University is starting to whittle down it's list of potential Law School Deans. Spokesperson Rodney Hanley says they should have a short list of candidates in February. Hanley says they've received applications from people in Canada and around the world.

Children in Critical Care

2012-01-24T09:03:00.001-05:00

OPP continue to investigate a serious two vehicle collision on Lakeshore Drive in Shuniah. Yesterday. a Ford Focus was traveling east bound when the driver lost control and collided with a west bound Ford Explorer. The driver of the focus and three children were transported to hospital. Two children are currently listed in critical condition.

Official Plan dominates discussions at council

2012-01-23T21:34:00.001-05:00

Council got an update on the Official Plan process at Monday night's meeting. Councillor Ken Boshcoff says he's been through this process a few times but this time is different because the city is growing and that provides different challenges. Chamber President Harold Wilson spoke to council and says he believes council needs to look at bringing in more multi family housing complexes. City Planning Manager Leslie McEachern says more public planning will be done soon.

Collision sends 2 kids to hospital

2012-01-23T17:35:00.000-05:00

Two kids have suffered life threatening injuries after a 2 vehicle collision on Lakeshore Drive. OPP says 2 others were taken to hospital in the collision that happened near Cedar Bay. A car carrying 4 was hit by an SUV that had just the driver in it. No word yet on charges.

Commission hearings hit City

2012-01-23T15:06:00.002-05:00

Social issues are getting an airing by a travelling Commission on the public service in Ontario. Here in Thunder Bay there were several speakers at a hearing Monday, including Larry Brigham who spoke on poverty issues. Steve Mantis was also there to advocate for injured workers. Most of the local presenters were social activists in the community and are speaking at a time when the province is going to be considering cuts to public services.

Poor weather conditions close highways

2012-01-23T13:44:00.003-05:00

The OPP say that Highway 11 between Longlac and Hearst is closed because of poor weather and road conditions. Officers say Highway 17 between Terrace Bay and White River has reopened going west and predict the eastbound lane to open soon.

Home invasion in Manitouwadge

2012-01-23T11:31:00.002-05:00

OPP are dealing with a home invasion in Manitouwadge. Two 20 something men are charged with various offences such as breaking and entering, robbery, assault with a weapon and use of a disguise. The charges stem from a report that two men broke into a home where they accosted the owner with weapons.

Police release deceased name

2012-01-23T10:47:00.002-05:00

17 year old Matthew Gibbons of Thunder Bay is now identified as the deceased in yesterday's accident near Kakabeka Falls. OPP Constable Diana Cole says they're still looking into the cause of the crash. Gibbons van collided with a transport near Pineview Road just before five in the morning Sunday.

Parallax has plaza plans

2012-01-23T10:40:00.000-05:00

Expect to see County Fair Plaza getting a facelift after a deal to sell the mall is finalized later this week. Stafford Lawson of Parallax Investments says his firm has a reputation for restoring the retail properties they purchase. He says they've fixed up a number of buildings in their history and that's what they intend to do with this one. No purchase price has been mentioned for the 87 thousand square foot facility.

Smoke detector fine

2012-01-23T10:27:00.002-05:00

A Melbourne Road homeowner is in trouble with the local fire department. The owners didn't have a working smoke alarm; they've been issued a ticket. The set fine is 235 dollars.

Sand Point First Nation

2012-01-23T10:02:00.003-05:00

The federal government and a Northwestern Ontario First Nation will soon begin the process of opting out of some land-related sections of the Indian Act. Treasury Board President Tony Clement says the move will give the First Nations greater control over their reserve land and resources. Sand Point First Nation Chief Paul Gladu says his First Nation is pleased to be a new signatory to the agreement. Gladu says it will assist the First Nation in establishing and nurturing partnerships with industry, governments and municipalities.

St. Joe's meets fundraising goal

2012-01-23T09:52:00.005-05:00

St. Joseph's Care group is going to revamp their hospice rooms thanks to donations from the community. After nine months of fundraising 725-thousand dollars was raised. The rooms will be modernized and make it easier for family to be close to their loved ones.

EcoSuperior gets cash

2012-01-23T09:33:00.000-05:00

EcoSuperior is one of 11 groups that are sharing in 98-thousand dollars from Sobey's. The local company will use it's share to create EcoKits. Sobey's is donating 98-thousand dollars towards environmental programs.

City teen dies in crash

2012-01-22T18:39:00.002-05:00

A 17 year old Thunder Bay boy is dead following an accident on the Trans Canada Highway near Pineview Rd. OPP say the teen was the driver of a Chevy Uplander van which collided with a tractor trailer unit just before 5 o'clock early Sunday morning. The youth was pronounced dead at the scene. The name has not been released. The two occupants of the tractor trailer were not hurt. Police say it is speculated that no charges will be laid.

OPP close highway near Rossport

2012-01-22T09:56:00.001-05:00

OPP are reporting another accident on Highway 17 near Rossport. Two transports collided. The highway is closed at Cavers Hill. No other information is available.

Highway 11/17 closed

2012-01-22T07:46:00.000-05:00

Highway 11/17 is closed due to a fatal accident east of Kakabeka Falls. OPP say the accident involved a transport truck and another vehicle. It happened just before five this morning. There's no word on when the highway may reopen. A detour is available on Highway 102.

NOVA Top 20 under 40

2012-01-22T07:44:00.002-05:00

Northwestern Ontario's best and brightest were honoured over the weekend. The top twenty under fourty were unveiled at a special ceremony Saturday night. 14 Thunder Bay residents were honoured, and six from the region were selected. Honourees include: Marcia Arpin, Stephanie Ash, Chantal Brochu, Doug Carlson, Elliott Doxtater-Wynn, Justin Frape, Keely Hartviksen, Genevieve Knauff, Jason Komoski Herp Lamba, Joseph LeBlanc, Duncan F. Macgillivray, Jake Satten and Matt Simeoni.

Structural Fire on Cumming Street

2012-01-21T10:08:00.002-05:00

Thunder Bay's Fire department is looking into the cause of a structural fire on Cumming Street. A fire department spokesperson says the two storey building was vacant at the time. The building was under renovation at the time of the fire and heavy fire damage is reported.

Pass Lake expected to get LCBO back

2012-01-21T09:38:00.000-05:00

Pass Lake is expected to get an LCBO agency store by the Spring time. Spokesperson Chris Layton says they're looking for interested business owners. The community lost their LCBO service when construction started on the highway.

Waterloo Mac's Mart Robbery

2012-01-21T08:14:00.001-05:00

Thunder Bay Police are looking for a suspect in an early morning robbery at the Waterloo Street Mac's Mart. A man with a large knife fled the scene with some store merchandise. No one was hurt.

Another NDP Leadership hopeful comes to the city

2012-01-20T17:46:00.000-05:00

NDP Leadership hopeful Paul Dewar is hoping to gain support for his bid in the city. Dewar spoke to students at Lakehead University today and says he thinks the way MP's Bruce Hyer and John Rafferty were treated for voting down the Gun Registry was wrong. Dewar says at the end of the day its a members job to represent the will of their constituents.

New concussion app coming our way

2012-01-20T17:41:00.001-05:00

Concussion prevention is the goal of a new mobile app being developed by Hockey Canada. Hockey Northwestern Ontario Director Trevor Hosanna says the app will give information to coaches, athletes and parents about head injuries in kids sports. Hosanna says Hockey Canada is partnering with several groups and is being funded to the tune of 1.5 million from the Federal Government.

Man airlifted after collision with train

2012-01-20T17:26:00.002-05:00

OPP says one man suffered non life threatening injuries after a vehicle train collision near Upsala. The man was airlifted to the Thunder Bay Health Sciences Centre just before noon.

Arrest made in Thursday night robbery

2012-01-20T17:25:00.000-05:00

A 27 year old woman is behind bars in connection to last night's convenience store robbery. Police say the woman was picked up this afternoon and was wanted for a number of outstanding charges.

No injuries in Lappe fire

2012-01-20T12:23:00.000-05:00

No one was injured during a 3 alarm barn fire in Lappe today. Fire crews from 3 stations were called to the blaze that started this morning and brought the inferno under control before noon. The cause is not yet known.

TBSO volunteer honoured

2012-01-20T10:30:00.000-05:00

A long time volunteer with the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra is getting the province's highest honour. Catherine Colquhoun is one of 27 appointees to the Order of Ontario. Colquhoun says she is delighted to be recognized and adds it acknowledges the importance of volunteering in a community. Colquhoun has been with the symphony for 50 years helping with it's founding and development

DSSAB steps up security

2012-01-20T10:01:00.000-05:00

There will be beefed up security at two city apartment blocks run by social housing. Melissa Harrison of the District Social Services Administration Board says it's because of the amount of police calls to the two locations. She says it amounts to 150 thousand dollars a year to pay for the services of security guards at Andras Court and Limbrick Place. Harrison says the board turned down the more expensive option of having a paid police presence.

Inflation drops in Thunder Bay

2012-01-20T09:10:00.000-05:00

Inflation in Thunder Bay is showing signs of easing. Last month the rate droped to 2 per cent from just over 2 and a half per cent in November. Across Canada government figures show the rate fell to 2.3 per cent in December

All in a night's work for fire crews

2012-01-20T08:08:00.001-05:00

City fire crews were busy last night at a couple of incidents. Platoon Chief Dave Long says during the supper hour they were called to Keefer Terminal. It was a medical call that involved using a aerial ladder to get a crew member from a ship. As well Long says they had to race to a chimney fire on Melbourne Road around 9:30. No one was injured.

Police search for robbery suspect

2012-01-20T07:18:00.001-05:00

City police are looking for a woman who robbed a southside convenience store last night. They say she walked in at around 8:30 and reached over and grabbed money from the till and ran off. Police were seen with their K-9 unit in the James and Redwood area but they didn't find anyone. The owner of the store was taken to the hospital after being assaulted in the incident. He received treatment for minor facial injuries and released.

Ring of Fire development to cost big bucks

2012-01-19T16:26:00.002-05:00

How much will it cost Cliffs Natural Resources to develop a mine in the Ring of Fire?. Well according to the company's 2012 Capital investment plan it will be over 2 billion dollars. The company estimates mine development to come in around 150 million dollars, 800 million for a concentrating plant and 1.8 billion for a processing plant. The company is in a pre-feasibility stage of development and doesn't anticipate any capital investment until 2014.