Magic 99.9 News

Hockey Day in Canada hits Thunder Bay

2012-02-10T17:58:00.002-05:00

Its Hockey Day in Canada and Thunder Bay is taking part in the festivities. The National Hockey Leagues Players Association with the support of our local NHL players is donating 120 sets of hockey equipment to 11 minor hockey clubs in the area. NHLPA Spokespeople say the equipment worth over 60 thousand dollars will allow a number of kids who wouldn't normally get a chance to play hockey, to lace em up. The festivities kicked off yesterday with a banquet in Murrilo.

Marriott eyes Thunder Bay

2012-02-10T16:22:00.000-05:00

Looks like a new hotel is coming to Thunder Bay. City planner Robert Eady says Marriott Hotels wants to buy about 1.6 hectares of land next to the Superstore to build 142 Marriott Town Place suites. Total project cost is about 18 million dollars. The land is also expected to include a Harvey's Restaurant along with an Earls or a Milestone Restaurant and a convenience store.

Daredevils ski the city streets

2012-02-10T14:20:00.001-05:00

Here's a video of some local skiiers turning Thunder Bay's Streets into a freestyle course. The video has been making waves on Twitter and could be on the verge of going viral.

Population drop doesn't faze Brown

2012-02-10T13:35:00.001-05:00

Atikokan's Mayor Dennis Brown is putting on his best face in the wake of a census report showing a 15 per cent drop in the towns population. Brown however, sees a positive trend developing as more young people are returning. Brown adds, the population can fluctuate with mining activity in the region.

Harvey talks population

2012-02-10T13:30:00.000-05:00

No panic from Nipigon's Mayor Richard Harvey over census figures showing the community's population dropped about 7 per cent. Harvey says the figures don't take into account some recent factors that indicate more people are moving into the town.

L-U trumpets another research grant

2012-02-10T12:41:00.000-05:00

It's research and innovation week at Lakehead University. To kick it off, a Government of Canada science grant of nearly 1 and a half million dollars was given to professor Ellie Prepas for her natural resources study. Prepas says she feels proud working with some of the best young minds in the country on the project which will be funded for five years.

Mauro on ORNGE

2012-02-10T11:42:00.000-05:00

Members of Ontario's Opposition Parties continue to dog the Government over it's handling of the Province's air ambulance service. Some members of the Opposition have suggested the Government should allow private companies to operate the service. MPP Bill Mauro disagrees. The Province recently put a not-for-profit air ambulance coordinator in place after firing former CEO Chris Mazza.

OPP survey

2012-02-10T11:22:00.000-05:00

How do you feel about the level of policing in your community? That's the question the OPP is trying to answer. Sergeant Shelley Garr says they have hired a consultant to conduct a Community Satisfaction Survey. Garr says the telephone survey is confidential and will be used to help develop OPP business plans for each of the detachments in Northwestern Ontario.

Di Matteo talks population

2012-02-10T11:19:00.000-05:00

A Lakehead University professor is not surprised Northwestern Ontario has less people than it did 5-years ago. Livo Di Matteo says its a reflection of the state of the region's forest industry. Di Matteo says while urban communities lost people, several First Nations communities experienced growth.

Rickford on Aboriginal education

2012-02-10T11:11:00.000-05:00

The Federal Government is promising to take a good look at a report on Aboriginal Education. The Federally appointed panel released its final report earlier this week. Parliamentary Assistant for Aboriginal Affairs, Greg Rickford says they've already committed a lot of money towards improving the aboriginal education system. The National Aboriginal Education Panel visited a number of communities across the country last year, including Rat Portage.

MP begins budget town halls tonight

2012-02-10T10:11:00.000-05:00

MP Bruce Hyer is going on the road. He'll be hosting a series of town hall meetings to give taxpayers a chance to discuss what they'd like to see in the federal budget. Tonight it's Thunder Bay. It takes place at the Prince Arthur Hotel starting at 7:30. The town halls will also be held in Marathon, Nipigon, Greenstone and Terrace Bay.

Police nab suspect in Shoreline Stabbing

2012-02-10T10:02:00.000-05:00

A 22 year old man is being charged in Wednesday's stabbing in front of the Shoreline Hotel. Constable Julie Tilbury says they picked the man up yesterday when they were called to a south side home about an assault. Tilbury says he's charged with assault with a weapon and breach of probation.

Petro Can Gas Bar Robbery

2012-02-10T09:55:00.000-05:00

Police are releasing pictures of the man who robbed the Petro Can Gas Bar on Dawson Road Wednesday morning. Constable Julie Tilbury says the man had his hood pulled up to hide his face. He approached the till and pulled a syringe out of his pocket and demanded money. He's described as being in his early 20's with a medium build. He was wearing a two tone grey winter jacket with a hood, blue jeans and white runners.

Water Rate debate rages

2012-02-09T17:00:00.000-05:00

City Councillor Larry Hebert is echoing many residents thoughts on the escalating water rates. Hebert says they've asked administration to consider a lower rate for this year. Some Councillors would like to see a 3.4 percent increase rather than a 6.7 percent one. A report with the lower water rate will come back to council in the future. Meanwhile Councillor Rebecca Johnson says one way or another the rate will go up, putting it off will just cost the city more money in the long run because the difference will have to be debentured. Johnson says it might be better to just take the hit now.

Murder trial to hear from last crown witness

2012-02-09T16:22:00.004-05:00

The prosecution is about to wrap up its case in the Andre Wareham murder trial. The crown says it will be calling it's last witness on Monday. Wareham is facing a second degree murder charged in the stabbing death in 2009 of William Atkins. Wareham is pleading self defense. In a police video played at the trial Wareham is heard telling an officer shortly after he was charged, that just before his arrest, he was getting his life together saying he stopped drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes and marijuana. He also says he was throwing himself into his two jobs. He said " I wanted to re-invent Andre Wareham."

Raid nets Oxys

2012-02-09T12:54:00.002-05:00

Police efforts continue to stem the flow of illegal prescription drugs in the city. A raid at a south side city hotel on Wednesday netted police about 32 thousand dollars worth of Oxycodone. Police say they also seized a small amount of Cocaine and almost 12 thousand dollars in cash. They say a 22 year old woman and 38 year old man were arrested and charged.

Rafferty bids gun registry farewell

2012-02-09T11:33:00.002-05:00

Thunder Bay MP John Rafferty is happy to see the long gun registry debate come to an end. The final vote for the controversial bill is expected to come to a close on Wednesday. Rafferty says there are so many other issues the Federal Government should be focusing on instead of the gun registry. Rafferty says he hasn't had any further blow back from his party over his recent voting on the gun registry.

Census data for Kenora

2012-02-09T10:38:00.002-05:00

New census data shows the population of Kenora fell below the national growth rate over the last five years. Statistics Canada released the first batch of numbers from the 2011 census this morning and the population of Kenora increased to about 15 thousand, 348 people. Vincent Dale is an analyst with Stats Can and says the city's growth rate was below both the national and provincial average. Stats Can says Kenora's population grew by 171 people in the past five years.

Rickford on gun registry vote

2012-02-09T10:37:00.000-05:00

A bill to scrap the federal long gun registry is speeding its way through the House of Commons. Earlier this week the Harper Government decided to limit debate on the bill. Kenora M.P. Greg Rickford expects the bill could pass third and final reading as early as next Wednesday.

Mauro on Toronto's endorsement of LRT

2012-02-09T10:32:00.000-05:00

Thunder Bay MPP Bill Mauro calls Toronto's transit plans a moving target. Mauro is happy to hear the City recently endorsed the light rail transit plan. The Provincial Government's money for the project is tied to Toronto Council's endorsement of the transit plan. Our Bombardier Plant is in line to build the light rail vehicles.

Dewar gets support

2012-02-09T10:30:00.000-05:00

There's Northwestern Ontario support for Paul Dewar's bid to lead the federal NDP. Maurice Grinstead, the riding association president in Thunder Bay Superior North, says Dewar's recent visit to the city cinched it for him.

Mayor not sweating census numbers

2012-02-08T17:29:00.004-05:00

Mayor Keith Hobbs is not pulling the alarm bell now that census numbers show our population dropped by just over half a per cent over five years. Hobbs says the key to increasing the population is simple...attract jobs. The Mayor, does however, think the census numbers may be inaccurate and may not reflect what has been really going on to attract more people here.

Housing stats down last month

2012-02-08T17:20:00.002-05:00

January was a quiet month for new housing starts. Canada Mortgage and Housing stats show Thunder Bay had half as many starts this year compared to January of 2011. There were 3 starts last month which was below the 10 year average.

Trudeau says more jails not the answer

2012-02-08T16:28:00.001-05:00

Margaret Trudeau says that prisons are not the place to house people with mental illness. The former wife of Pierre Trudeau spoke out against the Harper government's new crime bill to students at Confederation College Wednesday afternoon, saying more jails are not the answer. Trudeau has spent the last five years speaking on the struggles she had with depression.

Fire and Rescue pick up a pair on the harbour ice

2012-02-08T16:13:00.002-05:00

No charges are being laid after a pair of people walked across the harbour to the break wall. Thunder Bay Fire and Rescue Platoon Chief John Mill says the ice boat was used to pick up the pair and take them back to shore. Mill says its illegal to go on the harbour ice and the two were given a warning.

Police investigating hit and run

2012-02-08T16:09:00.000-05:00

Thunder Bay Police are investigating a hit and run. Officers say a pickup truck ran the stop sign at Windemere and Van Norman Monday afternoon and hit a car. No one was hurt but police are looking for the grey Dodge Ram with front end damage.

First Nations sign MOU

2012-02-08T15:46:00.002-05:00

A group of eight Northwestern Ontario First Nations have signed an agreement which they hope will lead to more affordable electricity. Brian Davey of the Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund says the major priority is to deal with a fuel shortage. The deal was signed in Thunder Bay Wednesday

Police looking into stabbing

2012-02-08T15:20:00.000-05:00

Police are looking for two people involved in last night's stabbing. Officials say two men approached a parked vehicle outside the Shoreline Hotel and stabbed the man inside. Officers say they were known to each other. No arrests have been made and the victim is in fair condition in hospital.

Stats Can reports T.BAY population decrease

2012-02-08T10:44:00.002-05:00

Statistics Canada is reporting Thunder Bay's population decreased by 0.7 per cent since the last census in 2006. City Manager Tim Commisso says there are a number of reasons for the decline including the drop in the economy, and having more deaths than births in the City. The City's population last May came in at one hundred eight thousand, three hundred fifty-nine.

Murray's speech called a PR stunt

2012-02-08T10:25:00.000-05:00

The President of the Lakehead University Student Union calls the Provincial Government's 30 percent tuition rebate program a PR stunt. Mike Snoddon wasn't impressed with College and University Minister Glen Murray's visit to Thunder Bay this morning. The LUSU President says if the Minister was serious about making post secondary education more affordable he would freeze tuition rates. Snoddon says the rebate does not include all students and only helps high school students who come from middle income families.

Public gets their chance to talk budget

2012-02-07T22:15:00.000-05:00

Council is being asked some tough questions about the upcoming budget. The public had its chance to give input during Tuesday night's consultation meeting. Resident Frank Armiento thinks administration is wasting money by spending money on the corporate review process. He says the city should be able to find ways to save money themselves without hiring consultants. Chamber of Commerce President Harold Wilson says the Chamber supports increased spending for infrastructure but savings need to be found to prevent tax increases. Mayor Hobbs was happy to hear from residents and thinks for the most part people want to see the roads taken care of in the city but its clear people are not happy with tax increase. Council will be back at it Wednesday night where its expected the water rate will take centre stage.

Government minister to visit

2012-02-07T15:24:00.001-05:00

The province's Minister of Colleges and Universities is coming to the city tomorrow. Glen Murray is going to be at Lakehead University at 8:30 in the morning to discuss the McGuinty government's 30 per cent tuition rebate program. A media release says he will be here to encourage more students to take advantage of the taxpayer funded initiative.

Syria: Worse before it gets better

2012-02-07T14:45:00.000-05:00

A Lakehead University political science expert predicts the violence in Syria will continue and the body count will get higher. Laure Paquette says it's anyone's guess how it will end, but says it will go on a few more months at least. Paquette says the death count will escalate since the Syrian government has moved from bullets to artillery shells

Local doc leads LHIN program

2012-02-07T14:06:00.001-05:00

The North West Local Health Integration Network is adding to its team. CEO Laura Kokochinski says they've hired Dr. Richard Almond as the LHIN's Primary Care Lead. The Thunder Bay physician will work with doctors across the Region to ensure the highest level of care is being received. Almond says primary care is the backbone of any health care system and stresses he will help move the system to a more patient centred, cost effective one.

Conference bound

2012-02-07T12:46:00.000-05:00

A major mining conference in London, England will have a Northwestern Ontario flavour to it. Rainy River Resources and Osisko Mining will be among 18-Canadian companies making presentations at the conference this month. Both are actively involved in exploration projects in this region. The conference attracts potential investors from around the world.

24 hour cardiac care

2012-02-07T11:52:00.002-05:00

Thunder Bay's Regional Health Sciences Centre is embarking on a new way of treating cardiac patients. They've teamed up with ORNGE ambulance, Superior North EMS and hospital staff to ensure patients can receive round the clock angioplasty care. Cardiac Doctor Andrea McDougall says air ambulance will also help bring patients to Thunder Bay to have their arteries opened.

NAN wants more funding for schools

2012-02-07T10:20:00.000-05:00

The Nishnawbe Aski Nation is out with a report on the critical underfunding of First Nation schools. Deputy Grand Chief Terry Waboose says the current funding system is inadequate and calls it a crisis. Waboose says the Federal Government needs to start matching education funds for First Nations at the same level the Province funds public school boards. Waboose says education under the Indian Act has failed remote First Nation communities.

Council moves foward with Urban Forest Master Plan

2012-02-06T22:18:00.001-05:00

The city's trees are getting some big time attention from City Council. The Urban Forestry Master Plan first report was given approval at Monday night's meeting and Councillor Aldo Ruberto says the city can and should look at Urban Forestry as a way to make the intercity area more attractive because Memorial is "ugly." The consultant who handled the report says Thunder Bay's Urban Forest is pretty good but there is ways it can be improved.

City calls for length restrictions on Dawson Road

2012-02-06T21:57:00.000-05:00

Its another step in the right director according to residents of the Dawson Road area. Over 2 thousand residents have signed a petition calling for a ban on transport traffic on the Road and Council voted unanimously on a resolution that calls for a length restriction. Mayor Hobbs says these trucks should be using the Shabaqua extension and something has to be done to remove them from Dawson. A draft bylaw will now be created and will then go to the province for approval.

Jury selection complete

2012-02-06T17:08:00.000-05:00

The jury in the Andre Wareham murder trial is now selected. The ten women and two men will be given their instructions by Justice Platana tomorrow morning followed by the opening statements from the prosecution and the defense. The 34 year old Wareham is charged with 2nd degree murder in the death of 29 year old William Atkins in January of 2009.

Researcher urges polar bear policies

2012-02-06T15:36:00.001-05:00

The provincial government is being urged to protect the Cree in the Hudson Bay area from polar bears. Lakehead University researcher Henry Lemelin says climate change could be a threat to First Nations there if more bears are forced off disappearing ice floes. Lemelin has three suggestions...restitution for people if they, or their property are harmed by polar bears, money to tranquilize and relocate the bears and a polar bear safety program to help them manage the bears properly.

School board begins budget process

2012-02-06T14:36:00.002-05:00

It's budget time for the Lakehead Public School Board. Spokesperson Kathy Pozihun says it's a procedure that could go into the summer before it's signed sealed and delivered to the government . Pozihun says this year there will be input allowed through a public meeting and by e-mail . She says the process can even be followed on Twitter. Last year the board approved total spending of 137 million dollars.

Police make fraud arrest

2012-02-06T14:23:00.000-05:00

Thunder Bay Police have arrested a 35 year old man after a couple complaints from people buying stuff on Kijiji. Officials say two people complained after not receiving their purchases and didn't have their money returned. Officers say the two victims made the purchases without seeing the items which is risky. The suspect is facing several fraud charges.

Murder trial getting underway

2012-02-06T13:26:00.004-05:00

Jury selection is underway for a Thunder Bay murder trial. 34 year old Andre Wareham is charged with second degree murder in the death of 29 year old William Atkins January 14th of 2009. Atkins died after what police say was an altercation in the common area of a Finlayson Street apartment complex. Selection got underway in front of Justice Terrance Platana after Wareham formally pleaded not guilty to the charge. Rob Kozak and Elaine Burton represent the prosecution while Steven Hinkson is Wareham's Lawyer. Two weeks have been set aside for the trial.

Fire and Rescue deal with 2 fires Sunday

2012-02-06T08:19:00.002-05:00

A family of six is safe after a candle caught their Wiley Street home's upstairs bedroom on fire. Everyone made it out of the house safely Sunday. Fire damage is limited to that bedroom and could cost up to 40-thousand dollars. The Fire department also responded to an apartment blaze on Valley Street. Officials say the fire started in the kitchen of one of the units and was out by the time crews arrived. No one was hurt.

Dominion Curling Results

2012-02-06T07:14:00.001-05:00

The Northern Ontario Dominion Curling Championships saw Thunder Bay's Joe Scharf, Jeff Currie and Mike Assad lose their draws. The playdowns started Sunday in Sault Ste. Marie. The trio are back in action this afternoon at 2.

T.Bay breaks weather record

2012-02-06T06:48:00.001-05:00

Thunder Bay broke a warm weather record Sunday. Our Meteorologist Bill Laidlaw says we reached a high of 4.8 degrees point seven degrees warmer than the record set in 1998. Laidlaw adds cold air is moving in and we can expect colder temperatures for at least a week.

College welcomes Trudeau

2012-02-06T06:12:00.002-05:00

Margaret Trudeau is paying a visit to Confederation College on Wednesday. She'll be speaking to students about living with her bi-polar condition. Margaret is the former wife of Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau.

Missing Youth Rainy River

2012-02-05T09:47:00.000-05:00

A Rainy River youth was reported missing on January 31. The Rainy River District OPP is looking for help from the public. Belinda PAISHK, age 16 years of Off Lake Road is described as a First Nation female, 5'2" tall, 120 lbs. If you have information about Paishk's whereabouts, call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.

FedNor Funding

2012-02-04T09:34:00.000-05:00

There's a call for a regional economic development fund to help pay for municipal infrastructure upgrades.

Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty and the New Democrats see FEDNOR as a good source to cover the cost of small projects. Rafferty says with no stimulus money expected in the coming budget, FEDNOR funding would be a viable option.

Canada is the most educated country in the world

2012-02-03T17:18:00.001-05:00

A new report on the most educated countries in the world lists Canada at the top. The Yahoo story puts us first with 50 percent of our population holding a post secondary education. Lakehead University Vice President Rod Hanley says studies have proven that people with post secondary educations have a better standard of living. Hanley says LU is pulling its weight by leading the province with an almost 13 percent increase in applications this year.

Dawson Road back on the agenda

2012-02-03T17:14:00.000-05:00

Transport Traffic on Dawson road will be on the agenda at Monday's council meeting. Councillor Ken Boshcoff says he doesn't think much can be done since the road is part of the National Road system. Boshcoff says the best we can do is encourage tougher enforcement of the speed limits by City Police and OPP.

Boy arrested after causing blackout

2012-02-03T16:50:00.000-05:00

Thunder Bay Police have arrested a 19 year old boy in connection to a collision that knocked out power to part of the city yesterday. Police say the boy took his parents truck without permission and ended up driving into a power poll which left 1800 people in the dark. Officers say the boy and his friend fled the scene.

Bill proposes low passport fees

2012-02-03T16:36:00.001-05:00

Thunder Bay MP Bruce Hyer wants to give us a break on our passport fees. He has introduced a private members bill to cut the costs of obtaining the travel document in Canada and the United States to help tourism. The Harper government majority means Hyer's bill is not likely to pass.

Grann trial takes a break

2012-02-03T16:31:00.004-05:00

The Toni Grann trial is taking a recess for three weeks. Grann's lawyer Clay Powell says both sides will now take the time to write their final submissions to the judge. Grann, a Thunder Bay police officer, is charged with Breach of Trust over the way she maintained records in the local Sex Offender Registry

McQuaker resurfaces

2012-02-03T15:19:00.003-05:00

Barry McQuaker is back in jail after a somewhat strange appearance in court today. McQuaker spent time behind bars in the 1990's after admitting to cremating and burying the remains of his 12 year old son Jason, who disappeared in June of 1988. McQuaker denied ever killing the boy and his murder is still unsolved today. In today's court appearance we discover McQuaker has been a victim of homelessness and mental health issues. He was sentenced to 85 days in jail for threatening a police officer and assaulting an inmate at the District Jail. During proceedings McQuaker displayed a careless attitude pleading guilty to whatever charge was read to him. As he was lead out he could be heard saying, "have mercy on all your souls."

T.Bay targetting motorcycle market

2012-02-03T11:21:00.001-05:00

Thunder Bay is looking to capitalize on the motorcycle tourism market. Tourism Manager Paul Pepe says they've handed out a check list to area businesses asking them if they're "motorcycle" friendly. A list of motorcycle friendly locations in the City will be made available on smart phones. Thunder Bay is taking part in a trade show for motorcyclists in Minneapolis this weekend.

NAN Youth in T.Bay for gathering

2012-02-03T11:19:00.002-05:00

The Nishnawbe Aski Nation's younger generation will be gathering in Thunder Bay this week. The group comprised of youth from various First Nations will be discussing how to increase the quality of life on and off reserves. The conference starts on Tuesday and wraps up on Thursday.

NAPS to hold recruitment initiative

2012-02-03T11:15:00.002-05:00

An area police force wants to hire area First Nations to fill the growing need for police officials in the North. The Nishnawbe Aski Police are holding a police recruitment initiative to spread the word about a career in law enforcement. The two day recruitment drive will take place in the Spring.

Rafferty wants regional development fund

2012-02-03T10:02:00.003-05:00

There's a call for a regional economic development fund to help pay for municipal infrastructure upgrades. MP John Rafferty says the New Democrats see FEDNOR as good source to cover the cost of small projects. Rafferty says with no stimulus money expected in the coming budget, FEDNOR funding would be a viable option.

Prince Arthur's Landing nominated in G.P.C.

2012-02-03T09:47:00.001-05:00

Prince Arthur's Landing is in the running for a nation wide competition put on by the Canadian Institute of Planners. You can vote for the newly renovated waterfront in the Great Places in Canada competiton. To vote click here. At last check Thunder Bay had 106 votes.

Graduation Ceremony on Saturday

2012-02-03T09:35:00.003-05:00

The local army reserve is holding a graduation ceremony for the latest batch of high school co-op students. Captain George Romick says the students come from both the public and private school boards. The graduation ceremony will take place at the Armouries on Park Avenue at 10:30 am Saturday.

Local unemployment numbers

2012-02-03T08:22:00.001-05:00

There's disappointing news on the national job front. Canada's unemployment rate rose to 7.6 per cent in January. Locally, our unemployment rate dropped from 7 percent to 6.2 per cent. The jobs figures are from Statistics Canada.

Mining companies in England

2012-02-03T06:42:00.001-05:00

Two companies proposing gold mines in the Rainy River district will be promoting their projects to an international audience later this month. Rainy River Resources and Osisko Mining will be among 18-Canadian companies making presentations at a mining conference in London, England. The conference attracts potential investors from around the world.

Kenora's version of "The Birds"

2012-02-03T06:39:00.001-05:00

It has some people thinking about Alfred Hitchcock's movie "The Birds.'' Ravens have been pecking large holes in the rubberized roof of the Operations Building in Kenora. As a result, the five-year-old building has developed some leaks. Officials want to find a solution to the destructive pecking before fixing the roof.

KDMA Conference on this weekend

2012-02-03T06:37:00.000-05:00

Municipal leaders from across the Kenora District are gathering the next couple of days for a lively discussion. Kenora District Municipal Association President Phil Vinet says the meat and potatoes of their annual conference starts tomorrow. The Red Lake Mayor says Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell, Lieutinent-Coloniel Dan Drew and Medical Officer of Health Dr. James Arthurs are among the guest speakers.

NAN wants power grid hook up by 2018

2012-02-03T06:22:00.000-05:00

Nishnawbe Aski Nation Chiefs are calling on the Provincial Government to help them connect their communities to the power grid. They want all NAN communities to be hooked up by 2018. The goal came from a three day conference that was held in Thunder Bay this week.

Grann trial into final phase

2012-02-02T18:25:00.000-05:00

Two days of gruelling cross examination of Thunder Bay police officer Toni Grann are now complete. Prosecutor Marc Huneault repeatedly grilled Grann on the way she kept records when she administered the local Sex Offender Registry. While she kept her composure for much of her testimony Grann did break down and cry during some of the questioning. Grann is charged with Breach of Trust in connection with falsified records in the registry. A final verdict may not happen for some weeks

Terrace Bay Pulp owes almost 40 million

2012-02-02T17:54:00.003-05:00

Potential buyers of Terrace Bay Pulp have until February 15th to file a letter of intent. Officials at CCAA monitor Ernst and Young say the company owes almost 40 million dollars to creditors and proceeds of a sale would go to them. If no buyers can be found it's a possibility the mill could be sold for scrap.

Grann undergoes more questioning

2012-02-02T14:53:00.002-05:00

It's the second day on the stand for the Thunder Bay Police officer who is charged with falsifying records in the Ontario Sex Offender Registry. Prosecutor Marc Huneault spent the morning and part of the afternoon grilling Toni Grann on how she kept her records. Grann kept her composure on the stand during the cross examination. On Wednesday Huneault indicated he would complete his questioning sometime today.

Cindy's Ashes have been returned

2012-02-02T14:11:00.006-05:00

Radio reports have reunited a family with an urn of remains. Police say the Urn was found at Dutchak's Recycling and after the story hit the airwaves, family members went to Balmoral Station to pick up Cindy's Ashes. Officials say the remains are human and were misplaced.

16th year for Bearskin Airlines Hope Classic

2012-02-02T12:15:00.001-05:00

It's the 16th year for the Bearskin Airlines Hope Classic. Chair Sue Childs says there are 59 teams taking part in the bonspiel that will take place February 17th to the 19th at the Fort William Curling Club. Since it's inception over 2-million dollars has been raised for the Linda Buchan Centre for cancer care.

Pedestrian appeared to be drunk: police

2012-02-02T11:29:00.001-05:00

Police say alcohol may have been a factor in a car-pedestrian accident on Cumberland Street last night. They say the victim, a 33 year old woman, appeared to be drunk at the time and ran into oncoming traffic and was struck by a car. Police say she was taken to the Health Sciences Centre, but her injuries were not serious. No chanrges have been laid.

Thunderhawks in Dryden today

2012-02-02T09:54:00.000-05:00

The first year Confederation College Thunderhawks Women's Hockey team is making an appearance in Dryden this afternoon. The Thunder Bay based team is practising at the Memorial Arena from 1 until 2 . Coach Marshall Erickson says it will give local residents a chance to learn more about their program. The club signed Dryden's Kyley Engstrom this week.

Dryden to hold by-election

2012-02-02T08:11:00.003-05:00

A by-election will be held to replace Dryden Councilor Mike Wood. Council made the decision last night and Mayor Craig Nuttall says it was the right decision. Six potential candidates were in Council Chambers when Council made the decision.

Terrace Bay Pulp owes millions

2012-02-02T07:14:00.002-05:00

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

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

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

2012-02-01T18:30:00.000-05:00

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

2012-02-01T17:52:00.006-05:00

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

2012-02-01T17:39:00.003-05:00

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

2012-02-01T17:38:00.002-05:00

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"

2012-02-01T14:22:00.000-05:00

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

2012-02-01T10:33:00.002-05:00

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

2012-02-01T09:45:00.001-05:00

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

2012-02-01T09:44:00.001-05:00

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

2012-02-01T09:42:00.001-05:00

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

2012-01-31T23:59:00.002-05:00

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

2012-01-31T15:43:00.002-05:00

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

2012-01-31T14:55:00.002-05:00

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

2012-01-31T12:06:00.000-05:00

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

2012-01-31T11:51:00.000-05:00

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

2012-01-31T11:28:00.000-05:00

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

2012-01-31T10:31:00.003-05:00

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

2012-01-31T09:53:00.000-05:00

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

2012-01-31T05:45:00.002-05:00

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

2012-01-31T05:30:00.001-05:00

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 is getting a big look

2012-01-30T23:41:00.001-05:00

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

2012-01-30T23:13:00.001-05:00

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

2012-01-30T19:54:00.002-05:00

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

2012-01-30T15:28:00.000-05:00

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.