Walmart finishes expansion

Big box powerhouse Walmart is even bigger.  Store Manager Ryan Holomego says the store has finished its expansion and now offers a full grocery area.  He says he's been hearing nothing but good feedback from customers.  The construction took 16 months to complete.

Kakabeka resident wins 50 K

A Kakabeka Falls resident is 50 thousand dollars richer thanks to a game of Instant Super Bingo.  Evelyn Otto won the cash on an OLG scratch ticket that she bought at the Good Luck Lottery Shoppe in Thunder Bay.

Double fatality in the Northwest

A Pikangikum man and woman are dead as the result of a traffic accident 60 kilometres north of Red Lake on Thursday afternoon. They say the two were the passengers in a pick up truck that rolled several times. Two other people were treated in hospital.

Police investigate Red Lake death

The OPP in Red Lake are probing the death of a 46 year old woman.    Police say she was found unconscious in that community and was flown to Thunder Bay where she was pronounced dead at the Health Sciences Centre early Thursday morning.    They aren't saying anything about the cause of death.  The woman was from Pikangikum but was residing in Red Lake

Tory's northern platform unveiled

The Progressive Conservatives are targeting First Nations and our natural resources in their northern election platform.   Leader Tim Hudak unveiled the platform in Thunder Bay today.  The platform includes a promise for the premier to meet with First Nations leaders two times a year  and to hold cabinet meetings in the north. There's also a promise to make better use of natural resources and to create jobs.

Matawa makes it's move

More area First Nations are holding their ground when it comes to development on their traditional territory.  This time the Matawa First Nations have signed a declaration to stand together to protect their natural resources.  The declaration states that they are asserting their treaty right to require that  all nine communities give written permission before any development activity take place.

Goldcorp stung for 50 K

Goldcorp Canada says it's guilty of violating the provinces Occupational Health and Safety act at it's Musselwhite Mine. On November 14, 2009, a Ministry of Labour inspector visited the mine. After reviewing the mine's training records, the inspector determined that one of the mine's workers was not registered as fully trained in all of the prescribed training programs for work in a hard rock underground mine. The mining giant was fined 50 thousand dollars for failing to ensure that a worker was fully trained.

Hobbs keeps mum on possible apology

Mayor Keith Hobbs says he will "absolutely not" comment on a report that he's about to publicly apologize to former Police Chief Bob Herman to end Herman's defamation lawsuit.   Hobbs says more will come out at a news conference Wednesday at noon.  The suit is in connection with comments Hobbs made at a March news conference. 

Hospital entrance could get traffic lights

Lakehead University students may get their wish for traffic lights on Oliver Road at the entrance to the Regional Hospital. City Engineering Manager Pat Mauro says he's asking councillors to consider it as a budget item next year.  He says if approved then the lights could be up in about a year or so.  The issue comes before councillors on Monday.

City to contribute to overpass work

The city is doing it's part to help with the construction of the overpass at Hodder and the Thunder Bay Expressway.  Rick Harms of the city's engineering division says the work mainly involves watermain relocation and says the city is obliged to do it.  City councillors will be dealing with the three quarter million dollar contract at Monday's meeting

Caribou Coach pressuring the province

A local transportation company is pleading with the provincial government to consider local companies.  Caribou Coach President Sandy Smith says the province is sponsoring Pacific Western to provide services to patients in the Northern Health Transportation Grant program, which could cut out a third of his ridership. 

City pool in line for renovations

Volunteer Pool is in for a face lift as city councillors prepare to award a contract worth almost half a million dollars towards the improvements. The city's renovations manager Gerry Boere says it's mostly interior work which was recommended by their engineers. Boere says he will be recommending the lowest bid for the project Monday evening.

Another teen goes missing

There's another missing teen in the city.   Police say 14 year old Miranda Ritchie was last seen Sunday when she was dropped off at Churchill Pool.  They say she contacted her guardian later that night saying she wouldn't be coming home.

Brown seeks all avenues to save AFP

The province says there's simply no wood to give but that isn't deterring Atikokan from finding resources that would help re-open the idled Atikokan Forest Products mill. Mayor Dennis Brown says it includes talking with AbitibiBowater.  He says there used to be an arrangement with the company for supplying wood chips, and hopes it's an arrangement which can be resurrected. Brown says he plans to meet with the potential buyers of the Sapawe mill in the near future to discuss other options.

Addiction issues dominate AFN gathering

Fort William First Nation Chief Peter Collins is back from the Assembly of First Nations Conference hopeful there's a start to address native drug abuse. Collins says that seemed to be a prevailing topic at the conference. As evidence Collins pointed to the killing of a 5 year old boy on a reserve in Alberta, a death he says was related to drugs and drug addiction. The conference is being held in Moncton, New Brunswick

Industrial accident results in police charges

The Ministry of Labour and the OPP are continuing to probe  the circumstances surrounding an  incident on the Trans Canada Highway east of Shabaqua Corners.   Police say it involved a loaded log truck pulling down some wires on a construction worker.    The truck driver is charged with height and load violations.

Evacuated residents set to return

Deer Lake residents are expected to begin returning home today after being evacuated last week due to area forest fires. Sandy Lake, Cat Lake, North Spirit Lake, Kee-way-win and Koocheching remain on evacuation alert and continue to monitor the situation.  There were four new fires in the Northwest Region reported last night, with two in the Kenora District, one in the Red Lake District and one in the Sioux Lookout District.

New Chief Sworn in

After 24 years of policing JP Levesque has taken the top job with Thunder Bay Police.  Levesque was officially sworn in as Chief this morning and says he looks forward to getting to work and will start by doing some consultation with members of the force.  Levesque says he has some ideas on how to change the way policing is done in Thunder Bay wants feedback from his officers.  The 47 year old has spent his entire career in the city and has held almost every position within the force.

No nukes for Lac Seul

Lac Seul says it will not support any nuclear waste initiatives by regional municipalities within First Nation territory. Several communities including Sioux Lookout, Ignace and Ear Falls have been exploring the possibility of becoming a host repository site. Chief Clifford Bull says Lac Seul doesn't want to create an impossible problem for future generations to struggle with. Bull says they don't want to consult with municipalities on the issue, noting they are strongly opposed to the idea. Bull adds that Grand Council Treaty 3 and the Nishnawbe-Aski Nation are both on his side.

Police issue plea for driver and witnesses

Thunder Bay police are looking to speak to  the driver of a vehicle that may have been involved in a chain reaction accident on May Street yesterday.  They say it took place at the intersection of George Street.  There were only minor injuries.  Police also are asking any witnesses to the accident to contact them.

Missing teen

Thunder Bay Police are looking for a missing 14 year old Thunder Bay girl.  Kelsey Loon has been missing since June 28th.  Loon has a history of running away and her guardian is concerned for her welfare. Loon was last seen by her guardian in the Blucher Avenue Area.

Sharp lets his agent do the talking

There's still lots of talk about Thunder Bay's Patrick Sharp getting a contract extension with the Chicago Blackhawks, but he wouldn't say if they're close to reaching a deal or not.  He says it's just a matter of time before the issue sorts itself out adding, "that's why we have agents". Sharp still has one year left on his contract with the Hawks.

Taylor Pyatt hopes for drama free season

It's at least another year with the Phoenix Coyotes for Thunder Bay's Taylor Pyatt. Pyatt hopes the coming season is free from last year's drama when there was so much talk about the team moving to Winnipeg.  He admits it was a "little bit" of a distraction close to playoff time.  Overall, Pyatt says he's happy to be back with the team.

Marc Staal stoked about Brad Richards signing

Marc Staal believes his New York Rangers are in a good position heading into the new season having just acquired the top free agent on the market. Staal says getting Brad Richards is a big acquisition and that his leadership and talent on the ice will be huge for the team.

Eric Staal looks forward to playing the Jets

Thunder Bay hockey fans will get added chances to see Eric Staal and the Carolina Hurricanes this season now that the Winnipeg Jets are back in the NHL. Staal says he's looking forward to playing them since they'll be in the same division.   He admits it's a long way for the team to travel, but that it'll be "pretty neat" to be that close to Thunder Bay.

Tom Pyatt to make the best of short term deal

Thunder Bay's Tom Pyatt is adjusting to life as a member of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Pyatt recently signed a one year deal with the Bolts and admits such a short term contract creates some uncertainty, however he says he'll use it as an opportunity to show the team what he can do.   Pyatt adds he's looking forward to the change.

Whiskey Jack Forest Audit Released

An audit of the Whiskey Jack Forest is painting a disturbing picture of a forest in decline. Environmental group Earthroots says the report backs up Grassy Narrows' First Nation's claims of mismanagement. Spokesperson David Sone says the audit team found significant issues with the management of the forest. The Whiskey Jack audit is one of only two the province released without action plans to meet the recommendations.

Emo man charged with child porn

A 39-year-old Emo man is in custody awaiting a July 18th court appearance following an OPP investigation. Officers started with the investigation of a breach of court order against the accused.  Police searched the man's home and seized computers, gaming equipment, a hard drive, memory cards, data recording devices and voice recording devices. OPP say John Paul Muzyka faces counts of possession of child pornography, careless storage of a firearm and failing to comply with a court order.

2 work orders issued after accident

The Ministry of Labour has issued 2-orders against a Southern Ontario company following yesterday's industrial mishap on the Noden Causeway, east of Fort Frances. A 33-year-old man was taken to hospital with leg injuries after the 65-tonne crane tumbled over. The Ministry has halted work in the area until investigators can complete their work. Con-create of Bolton, Ontario has also been instructed not to move the crane, but ensure it's stable.

B.C. lends a helping hand

The Ministry of Natural Resources is getting badly needed help in its fight against 89-raging forest fires in Northwestern Ontario.  100-firefighters from British Columbia are set to arrive today to help local crews. Quebec has also provided 2-water bombers and a Bird dog aircraft. There were 2-new fires reported yesterday; 1-in the Red Lake District and 2-in Thunder Bay.

New Chief of Police announced

Thunder Bay will soon have a new Chief of Police.  Deputy Chief J.P. Levesque is being promoted and will be sworn into his new position Wednesday.  Levesque was born and raised in Thunder Bay and has been with the police service for 24 years.

Hobbs yet to be served

City Councillors will hear about the 700 thousand dollar defamation lawsuit against Mayor Keith Hobbs on Monday. City Solicitor Rosalie Evans says the closed door meeting will talk about the city's lawsuit laws, and the current status of the former Police Chief's lawsuit. Hobbs has yet to be served his papers. Bob Herman has 6 months to serve Hobbs with them.

Missing angler in Ear Falls

The search is on for a missing angler on Wenasaga Lake, near Ear Falls.  OPP were notified on Saturday morning that a 73-year-old man from Minnesota went fishing and didn't return.  His capsized boat was found a shortime later in the water, along with some of his gear and a personal flotation device.  The Underwater Search and Recovery Unit is involved in the search. No name has been released.

C-dif situation normal: DHU

There is no unusual spike of the c-difficile super bug at the Regional Health Science's Centre. Ken Allen of the District Health Unit says the situation doesn't even come close to what is happening in the Niagara Region and he expects it to stay that way.  Allen says there are no reported cases above what is normal for c-difficile activity at the hospital

Land use plans complete

The Provincial Government is reporting that Cat Lake and Slate Falls First Nations have completed their land use plan.  The strategy identifies economic opportunities and areas of protection under the Far North Act.  The two First Nations and Ontario will now work together on implementing the plan.  Both communities say they will now be able to promote new activities while protecting their traditional territory. The Provincial Government says Pikangikum First Nation's land use plan has also been completed and 2-other strategies are about to be finalized.

Tim Hortons upset over MPAC assessments

A hearing has been scheduled for September on an appeal of the property assessment of several Tim Horton's stores in Northwestern Ontario.  The chain is arguing the assessment of several stories in Dryden, Kenora, Fort Frances and Thunder Bay is too high. The Assessment Review Board will hold a tele-conference September 6th to hear the appeal.

25 year old dies in Highway 11 crash

A 25 year old Northwest Angle resident is dead following a collision on Highway 11 just south of Sioux Narrows.  The OPP say the accident took place around 4:00 yesterday morning in the area of Fickas Road.

Police say a pedestrian was struck by a transport.  Dayton Kavenaugh was pronounced dead at the scene.  The OPP's Technical Traffic Collision Investigation Unit is continuing to investigate.

Fort William federally promoted

Fort William Historical Park is a signature experience. That's according to the Canadian Tourism Commission. They've added the park as one of 48 "signature tourism experiences". The federal agency is recommending the site to international travellers.

Memorial Walk heads to Thunder Bay

A group of Summer Beaver residents are embarking on a memorial walk from Pickle Lake to Thunder Bay. The walk is in memory of seven residents who died in a plane crash on September 11th in 2003.  The walk will take about 14 days.

Strathcona golf course damage

Almost 20 thousand dollars in damage was done to the Strathcona Golf Course in the City's north end.  Thunder Bay Police say an ATV was driven onto the holes sometime during Saturday night.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Crimestoppers.

National Park gets trail upgrade

Outdoor enthusiasts can again enjoy Pukaskwa National Park as it's meant to be enjoyed, on the hiking trail.  The 60 kilometre long Coastal Hiking Trail along the shore of  Lake Superior is now re-opened complete with major upgrades including the rebuilding of the White River and Willow River suspension bridges.

Housing Starts rise again

Housing Starts in Thunder Bay continue to rise.  CMHC analyst Warren Philp says last month saw a 50 percent increase in construction starts compared to June of last year. Philp says a huge jump in multi family units in the cause of the increase with 24 starts last month.  Philp says year to date numbers are also up with 99 starts since January, up from 77 over the same period last year.

CLE gears up for summer fair

Four days of fun are set for August 10th to the 14th at the Canadian Lakehead Exhibition summer fair.  It's the CLE's 121st year offering the family event.  This year's event will include a home and garden show, creative arts and a youth talent search.

Distracted Driving Crack Down

Keep off your cellphones and keep your eyes on the road if you don't want to attract the attention of police. Provincial police officers are kicking off their second "Phone in One Hand, Ticket in the Other, Distracted Driving Campaign.'' Starting today, officers will be stopping any drivers caught using a hand-held communications device. Using a cellphone while driving could bring a 155-dollar fine.

Magma Metals continues drilling

A mining company working in the Thunder Bay area is going to extend its work throughout the summer months.  Magma Metals is pleased with the results from drilling and have decided to continue work on its platinum, palladium, copper and nickel program.

PA Stadium favourite ball park in Canada?

Port Arthur Stadium is a finalist for the favourite ballpark in Canada.  16 finalists have been chosen by Baseball Canada and people can vote for their parks on the Baseball Canada website over the next few weeks.

Forest Fire situation heats up

The Forest Fire Situation in Northwestern Ontario is causing some headaches for a number of communities.  Power has been knocked out in Pickle Lake, Cat Lake, Slate Falls and Musselwhite Mines after a fire scorched the main transmission line into the area.  Elsewhere, Evacuated residents of Deer Lake are still in Greenstone and now the Ministry of Natural Resources has put evacuation alerts in place in Sandy Lake, Cat Lake, North Spirit Lake, Keewaywin and Koocheching due to smoke from nearby fires. 

Pat Seed new CWDO President

New president of Citizens with Disabilities - Ontario, Pat Seed is very happy about being elected. Seed, who is from Thunder Bay says she is eager to deal with the issues of the disabled. Seed has lived with total blindness her entire life and has worked with CWDO since 2006.

Forest Fires in the Northwest

The damp weather in our region has not slowed down the forest fires. A total of 81 fires are currently burning in the region affecting over 100 thousand hectares of forest. Currently there is 1 fire burning in both the Thunder Bay and Dryden districts and 4 fires in the Nipigon district.

Ontario government helps Caledonia

The Ontario government is giving residents and businesses in Caledonia 20 million dollars to compensate them for losses during an aboriginal land claims protest. Attorney General Chris Bentley calls the deal fair. The money will go to residents or business owners in the community who suffered direct losses as a result of the protest.