The Relay Is On!

The annual Shelter House Relay takes place today at Chippewa Park.   It's the annual fundraiser for the city's homeless shelter and Executive Director Patty Hajdu admits participation is down from previous years, but they expect to  bring in about 140 thousand dollars.   She says next year they hope to breathe some new life into the event on its 20th anniversary.  The relay is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Shelter House.

Martin Receives Honourary Degree

Former Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin now has an honourary degree from Lakehead University.   Martin calls it a great honour from a great university.  Martin praises LU for setting a standard for the education of Aboriginal Canadians. Martin received the degree at the morning ceremonies which took place at the Community Auditorium.

Highway 587 Now Open

The Ministry of Transportation is reporting that Highway 587 near the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park is open again. The highway was closed due to road washouts from recent heavy rainfall.

Hospital To Enforce Smoking Ban

A smoking ban on the grounds of the Regional Health Sciences Centre will soon be enforced by officials.   Spokesperson Allison McMullen says as of September 30th patients and staff will no longer be able to light up on hospital property.   McMullen  says the long lead time is for everyone time  to prepare.

The Thunder Bay Sets Sail

The Thunder Bay has set sail on its maiden voyage.   The Canada Steamships Lines laker left a port in China this week and is expected in Montreal in late July where it will operate the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway.   It's expected to take up to two months to complete the trip.