3D-TV hits Thunder Bay

Move over HDTV, 3D-TV is here. The new technology has been rolled out in Thunder Bay. Greg Bagdon of the Future Shop says for now the item is a novelty, adding that for some, the price could be a barrier. He says for example, a 55 inch Samsung sells for $3,699, the 3D Blue-Ray disc player another $399 and the glasses sell for about $250 a pair. Bagdon believes the price will come down as 3D popularity increases. Pictured: Four year old Tyler Koiranen samples Monsters vs. Aliens on a 3D-TV.

Horwath says hydro decrease too little too late

Ontarios' NDP leader says it may be too little too late. Speaking in Thunder Bay, Andrea Horwath says the governments budget has finally acknowleged that industrial hydro rates are too high. However she says the 25 per cent rate reduction should have come years ago. As for the tax credit for northern Ontarians, Horwath calls it a slap in the face to northerners saying it will not begin to make up for the extra money we will pay as the result of the HST

Chamber of Commerce is pleased with budget

The Provincial Budget has the Thunder Bay Chamber of commerce happy. Chamber President Harold Wilson says industrial energy cost changes are vital for jobs in the North. He says seeing money set aside for Ring of Fire development is also a good sign.  Wilson does say however that 8 more years of deficit spending is worrisome.

Cavendish Cup kicks off with a bang

If yesterday was any indication, the Cavendish Cup is going to be an action packed tournament. Game one of the tournament saw the University of Manitoba Bisons storm back from a 4-1 deficit to beat McGill 5-4 in overtime. The second game on the night had Alberta downing UQTR 4-2. Today St Marys takes on McGill in the early game and the Thunderwolves will hit the ice tonight against UQTR.

Marathon OPP recover drugs in a traffic check

A routine traffic check led Marathon OPP to recover almost ten thousand dollars worth of Marijuana. Officers checked a vehicle on Highway 17 just east of Marathon yesterday morning that was parked in a snowplough turn. After a subsequent search officers located two bags of Marijuana and a prohibited weapon. Two people from BC were arrested and are facing several charges.

Fire hits East End home

No one is injured following a fire at a two storey house on 526 McIntosh. District chief Joe Grzelewski says it was called in around 5:30 pm Thursday. He says it was a chimney fire in a single family dwelling that started the roof ablaze. Most of the damage is confined to the exterior of the home. The cause is under investigation.

Gravelle says budget addresses key northern concerns

Northern Development minister Michael Gravelle says the budget is great for our part of the province. He says it addresses key northern hydro concerns. Gravelle says he's especially pleased he could get the governments attention focused on the Ring of Fire chromite deposit near James Bay. Gravelle also points to the extra 10 million dollars poured into the Northern Heritage Fund to increase its budget to 90 million dollars.

Mauro points to benefits to north in budget

Thunder Bay MPP Bill Mauro is pumped about the provincial budget. He calls a great for northerners. He's especially happy two areas regarding higher engery costs have been addressed. 150 (m) million dollar a year program to reduce electricity prices by 25 per cent for large industrial users in the north and a new northern Ontario energy credit of up to 200-dollars for low-to middle-income families; singles would get up to 130-dollars. The government also announced 45 million dollars towards development of the Ring of Fire chromite deposit near James Bay

3Rs explained

Industry and government workers are being educated about reducing, reusing and recycling. The province will soon begin enforcing its recycling rules. Speaking in Thunder Bay, provincial inspector Thomas Hansen says his team of 10 will not be heavy handed to begin with and will not threaten violators will penatlies.  Maximum fines for repeat offenders could be 100 thousand dollars a day.

Prostate Man recruitment in full swing

The search for a new Prostate Man is going to the Cavendish Cup. Regional Cancer Care has set up a booth at the Fort William Curling Cup. It will stay up into the weekend during the university hockey championship. The job has been vacant since Ron Hell retired from the post recently. As part of the recuitment people will be able to have their picture taken as the spokesperson prostate cancer awarness in the city.

Health Sciences Centre coping with isotope shortage

There's no risk for cancer patients today in Thunder Bay as the result of a world wide isotope shortage. Regional Cancer Care V-P Michael Power says they are coping for now, but the future seems less certain. Right now the most urgent patients are getting the attention. Power says non urgent patients are being rescheduled. Power admits though, the future is less certain unless isotope levels can come back to what they were three years ago.

Hobbs takes the plunge

Keith Hobbs has made it official. He is running for mayor in the upcoming municipal election. Hobbs has been with the city police service for over 30 years. He believes running for mayor makes more sense than for councillor.  Hobbs says he plans to release his election platform over the next several months.

Top Hat ceremony kicks of shipping season

The first vessel of the shipping season has landed in Thunder Bay. The Saginaw arrived last night and is taking a shipment of Canola to Windsor. Captain Colin Lozon took part in the traditional top hat ceremony, for being the first captain to visit the city. The Port Authorities Guy Jarvis says getting an early start will give the port a boost. Jarvis says he expects a solid shipping season this year, with increases in grains and more shipments for the Oilsands.

TBaytel and Rogers wireless partners

TBaytel and Rogers Communications are joining forces to improve wireless coverage in the Northwest. TBaytel will now be adding the Rogers 3G capabilities across their territory. The partnership means Rogers customers will have coverage where ever TBaytel does.   President Don Campbell says the customers are the big winners.  Campbell says Rogers consumers will now be on equal footing with those of TBaytel.

Border Cats sign more returning players

The Thunder Bay Border Cats are announcing the return of two more players from the 2009 roster with the signing of outfielder Garret Houts and first baseman Curtis Wagner. In addition, the Cats have signed outfielder Brad Felder for the 2010 Northwoods League season.

Northwestern Ontario Immigration Portal is officially online

North Western Ontario has a new tool to attract immigrants to the region, the Immigration Portal is online. 32 communities contributed to the website that has more than 500 pages of information and translates into 11 languages. Spokesperson Karen Honan says its the largest web portal in Canada. Honan says the next step is a major international marketing campaign.

Acting Mayor takes part in Mayors for Meals Day

Its Mayors for Meals Day and the Thunder bay meals on wheels program is taking part. Acting Mayor Larry Hebert helped deliver meals to seniors today. Hebert says meals on wheels is a great program for the community, because it lets seniors and people living with disabilities the opportunity to remain independent. Mayors across the country took part in the event.

Thunder Bay is fighting against racism

A large crowd gathered for the 4th annual Elimination of Racial Discrimination breakfast. Executive Director of the African Canadian Legal Clinic Margaret Parsons spoke to the gathering and says even though we have made great strides as a country, we can't forget about racism. Parsons says there is a lot of talk about diversity but that only goes so far and doesn't cover racism and discrimination.

Matawa first nation holding 2nd annual Governance and Economic Development Conference

The Matawa first nation are holding the 2nd annual community governance and economic development conference this week. Manager of the Matawa First Nation Tribal Council Brian Davey says these issue needs to be looked at to ensure his people are prepared for future business ventures like the Ring of Fire. Davey says the conference will also involve a large number of youth because they are the future leaders and need to be prepared.

Man suffers serious head injuries in hit and run

One man is in hospital with serious head injuries after being the victim of a hit and run. Thunder Bay police say a car hit a pedestrian just before 2 o'clock this morning, on the 100 block of Secord Street. When officers arrived they found the victim at the side of the road and rushed him to the Health Sciences Centre.

Stabbing lands a 40 year old woman in court

Police also had to deal with a stabbing this morning. Just after midnight police were called to an apartment on West Frederica Street were they found a women suffering from a stab wound. A 40 year old women was arrested and will appear in court today. The victim was treated and released.

Single Day passes are on sale for Cavendish Cup

Single day passes are up for grabs for the Cavendish Cup. With just two days to go before the tournament gets underway organizers have put the single day passes on sale. Thunderwolves Executive Director Jason Mallon says so far ticket sales have been great and are slightly ahead of last year. Mallon says there will be great hockey all weekend and a number of other great events taking place.

Volunteers are Raising the Rent for the Shelter House

Over 40 participants are working the phones to Raise the Rent. Its the annual fundraiser for Shelter House were entrants have to raise 592 dollars which is the average rent for a one bedroom apartment in the city. Those who can't raise enough money will stay the night at the shelter.  Executive Director Cal Rankin says he hopes to see 40 thousand dollars raised this year up from last year's 37 thousand.  Rankin says the Shelter has been busier than ever and the funds are greatly needed.

Earthwise Thunder Bay launches Go Green Expo

A new type of trade fair is coming to Thunder Bay and this is one has a Green theme. The First ever Go Green Expo is taking place from September 10-12 at the CLE grounds and is being put on by Earthwise Thunder Bay. Organizer Ruth Cook says there are a number of businesses in Thunder Bay that are setting an example that people can learn about. Cook says there will also be a number of workshops and other displays.

Province imposing levy on hydro bills

If you notice your Hydro rates increase in the near future its likely because of a new provincial levy. The McGuinty government is placing the levy to off set costs of the Green Energy Act. Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle says while the levy will cost extra they are funding programs that can save you money.  Gravelle says the levy will add up to a 33 cent monthly increase for the average household and will also impact industrial users.  Meanwhile the Canadian Paper Workers Union is unhappy with the Levy.  National Rep Marvin Pupeza says this will compound the problems already facing the industry in Ontario. 

Fire crews deal with small fire

Thunder Bay fire and rescue dealt with a small fire at a house in the 500 block of Egan Street yesterday. Crews extinguished a fire that started under the front stairs of the house. No one was injured the and the damage was limited to the stairs.

Versa Care has a clean bill of health

The outbreak of Gastrointestinal outbreak is over at Versa Care Thunder Bay. Officials are asking anyone who is feeling ill or who has been recently been sick to stay home to prevent the spread of infections.

Location chosen for temporary bus terminal

North Street will be the new location for a temporary South Core Bus Terminal. Council made the decision last night after several businesses and residents came forward against the other options being considered. It will take a few months before the site between Violet and North Streets is ready and since it the Brodie street terminal will be close March 29th, City Hall will be used as the terminal until the new site is ready.

Shingabis gets life in prison

The man who murdered Sybill Stoney in a Thunder Bay apartment last year has learned his fate. Michael Shingabis was sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 14 years after being convicted of 2nd degree murder. Shingabis also received 5 years for indignity to human remains. Stoney was found in her apartment in January 2009.

Thunder Bay participating in Earth Hour

For the third year in a row Thunder Bay is taking part in Earth Hour. Global event to raise awareness on climate change happens at 8:30 in the evening this Saturday. Earthwise Thunder Bay's Charles Campbell says to take part all you have to do is shut off your lights and reduce your electricity load anyway you can.  Campbell says there will also be a moonlight walk at Centennial Park during the hour that everyone is welcome to attend.

Cancer Society Launches Daffodil Days

Yellow flowers will be blooming across the city over the next week as the Canadian Cancer launches the annual Daffodil Days. Bunches of the flowers will be sold across the city over the next week to raise money for Cancer Research and other services. The Cancer Society's Dana Levanto says all the money raised will stay in the region. Levanto hopes last year's total of 30 thousand dollars will be surpassed this year.

A new arena project could be part the this fall's election

A proposed new multiplex arena could garner some discussion at tonight's council meeting. Administration will be presenting council with a public consultation strategy. Larry Hebert says while public consultation is key in a project this large, but he is hoping for a different approach. Hebert says he wants the issue to go to the polls in this falls municipal election. He says while he may support the project there is only one way to know for sure what residents want.

Thunderwolves fall in CIS consolation semifinal

The Thunderwolves men's basketball team worked hard but in the end just didn't have enough in the tank as they bowed out of the CIS nationals in the consolation semi final to Cape Breton 87-65. The Wolves lost their first game Friday afternoon to UBC who went onto lose to the University of Saskatchewan Huskies in the final.

Second wolf sighting in the city

A recent wolf sighting at Boulevard Lake is the second in the city in the last month. The first was when parents of students at Nor' Wester View School were given notices about a wolf and told the school was taking precautions. The latest sighting in Current River was made by a woman walking her dog. The Ministry of Natural Resources is telling the public to be cautious if you spot a wolf. Because a wolf is a wild animal it can be unpredictable, so the MNR recommends not running away and to leave room for it to escape on its own. No one has been hurt in any of the cases.

Investment update and arena consultation highlight meeting

City councillors get the low down Monday on how your tax dollars are being invested. Accounting manager Lynne Martin says investment advisors and managers will be there to make a presentation. Martin says councillors will hear results of how those investments performed last year. Also Monday, City Manager Tim Commisso will brief councillors on public consultations for a proposed new arena

Monday council agenda shortened

Monday nights meeting at City Hall won't be as long as some councillors may have feared. Because of the overwhelming agenda, the city clerks office has moved some items to next week. They include reports from the citys' Aboriginal liaison and on the low voter turnout for the last municipal election with suggestions on how it could be improved for this falls vote. That would include the possibility of online voting. Normally councillors would have had next Monday off.

Copper wire theft solved

Five men are charged after the theft of some copper wire recently. OPP say the theft took place from a business site in the city. Police made the arrest after they were tipped off that some copper wire was being burned by a group at the Squaw Bay Road dump on the Fort William First Nation. About 300 pounds of the wire was recovered. The five will be appearing in court next month to answer to charges of possession of stolen property.

Truck goes through the ice on Lac Des Milles Lac

There's a 2008 GMC truck sitting at the bottom of Lac Des Milles Lac .   OPP say that the vehicle went through the ice there.  They say the driver was trying to help another person whose truck was going through the ice.   As the good Samaritan tried to get closer to the stranded truck, his own went through.  There were no injuries.   The Ministry of Natural Resources and Fisheries and Oceans Canada have been alerted.

Drug raid nets $190,000 of pot

Police now have close to 200 thousand dollars worth of marijuana out of circulation. They raided two homes this week, located on Robertson and Heron streets. The search resulted in the seizure of about 21 pounds of pot. No one is in custody in connection with the bust, however police say that warrants are being sought for a 39 year old man and 37 year old woman. Both of them are from Thunder Bay.

Gravelle helps kick off Summer Jobs for Youth

The provincial government is telling employers now's the time to apply for subsidies to hire summer students. The provinces Summer Jobs for Youth program is back. Northern Development minister Michael Gravelle says the goal this year is to have more students hired.  He says last year there were 59 hundred young people employed under the program and this year the objective is 62 hundred. Employers have until April the 30 to apply for subsidies.

City being eyed as home for a new call centre

A new call centre may be about to open up in the city. On-Line Support is a Canadian based firm and it's vice-president is John Hooper. He says a career fair at the end of the month will assess potential employees.  He says they're looking to confirm that there is an available labour force here and to look for potential bilingual workers who'll be required to fill some spots.  The job fair will take place at the former StarTek site in VictoriaVille Mall. There's the potential for 200 to 300 jobs.

Risley set to break the harbour ice

Watch for the icebreaker Samuel Risley in the harbour starting on Friday.  It will be plowing through the ice to get the port ready for the new shipping season. Andy Maillet of the Canadian Coast Guard says the Risley replaces the two American cutters that were supposed to come here.  He says after they reviewed the ice conditions in the port they felt that it would be better handled by the more powerful Samuel Risley.   The two American icebreakers will instead be smashing ice in Whitefish Bay.

Border Cats sign three

The Thunder Bay Border Cats have signed three players from the 2009 roster. Infielder A.J. Schugel and pitchers Garrett Yount and Drew Erwin will be returning to Thunder Bay for the upcoming Northwoods League season. The Border Cats open the season at Port Arthur Stadium June 2nd against the Duluth Huskies.

Skateboard/BMX Plaza wins provincial award

The city's Skateboard/BMX Plaza at Marina Park is now an award winner. The facility has been given the Excellence in Design award from the Ontario government. Beverly Ball of the citys' Recreation and Cultural Division calls it a huge honour.  She says she's thrilled for the skateboarding community who have worked so hard to develop the park for young people.  The award will be presented next month at a conference in Niagara Falls.

Warm weather trend ending

All good things must come to an end. The great weather we've experienced over the last couple weeks ends Friday when the high temperature will only reach 3 degrees. Environment Canada's Jim Prime says that cooling trend will extend into next week. The cold spell ends a warming trend that saw a string of record temperatures that began on March 12th.

Grass fires on the rise

With the warm dry weather, Thunder Bay Fire and Rescue has had to deal with some grass fires in the city. Deputy Chief Greg Hankkio says since the beginning of March a number of fires have been started.   He says in some cases it's  kids setting the fires and in others it's private property owners burning grass, which is against the law.   Hankkio says any burning done in the city must be in compliance with a burning permit.

Proposals now being taken for the Atikokan GS

The Atikokan Generating Station is one step closer to getting itself a new lease on life. MPP Bill Mauro says a call has gone out for proposals to convert the coal fired plant to green fuel. Mauro calls it a positive economic step for the community, adding it will be the development of another industry creating employment in northwestern Ontario.  The call for proposals will close in mid-May

Leon's Furniture coming back to the city

The city is getting a new furniture store. City building supervisor Des Stolz says construction is now underway for a Leon's Furniture building and warehouse.   He says the 70 thousand square foot facility will be located at 799 Fort William Road. Total worth of the project is estimated at 8 million dollars. Stolz says an application was made to the city to construct the store about a month ago. No word on when it will be completed.

May Street Bridge in line for repairs

The May Street Bridge may be closed this spring and summer for repairs. That could create a major headache for city drivers. City engineering manager Pat Mauro says total closure of the bridge is being seriously considered for a couple of reasons. First, to speed up repairs and secondly,to avoid a traffic bottleneck if the construction were to take place in stages. The proposal goes to city council April 12th.

Keith Hobbs likely running for Mayor

After 33 years of service to Thunder Bay, Staff Sergeant Keith Hobbs has officially called it a career. Hobbs is officially retired from the Thunder Bay police and says his next step is running in this year's municipal election, most likely for mayor. Hobbs, who also headed the local police association, says he's confident he can make a quick transition from policing to public service.

One one hurt in Current River fire

No one is hurt following a fire in Current River Wednesday evening. The blaze was in a building that houses a day care centre at 313 Grenville. Fire Platoon Chief Manfred Rohr says the fire started in between the floors of the two story building and appears to have been accidental.   He says it appears it started when a lit cigarette started a joist on fire.  The owner of the day care says the business was closed at the time the fire was discovered just after 5:30.  Fire damage is confined to one small corner of the building.

Warmer weather helps waterfront work

The warmer weather is making work easier on the city's waterfront development at Prince Arthur's Landing. Construction Supervisor Gary Wood says the unseasonable temperatures have helped workers catch up a bit on the 40 million dollar project.  He says some lost time was made up, adding they're doing work now that was not scheduled to begin for a few more weeks.  Wood says to watch for the contract to be awarded shortly for Pier Two landscaping.

MNR has an early bear warning

A warning from the Ministry of Natural Resources. Linda Wall of the Bear Wise program says because of the unseasonably warm weather, bears are likely to come out earlier than usual. She says they'll be scavenging for food and that could mean encountering a bruin in the city.  She says it would be a wise decision to take down any bird feeders to avoid a bear coming onto your property.  Wall anticipates most of the bears will be younger ones,  about two years old.

Joint forces seize more drugs

Two people are in custody following a drug bust Tuesday on Rowand Street. OPP Detective Staff Sergeant Chris Lawrence says they seized about 30 thousand dollars worth of Oxycodone pills. They then went to a bank and found 50 thousand dollars in a safety deposit box. Lawrence says the amount of drugs seized is just a small portion of the prescription pills available illegally in the city.

NAPS makes post office drug seizure

No one is under arrest following a drug seizure at a remote northwestern Ontario post office. The Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service says with the help of Canada Post they seized over 38 thousand dollars worth of drugs being sent through the mail in the James Bay community of Moose Cree First Nation. The drugs included marijuana, cocaine and prescription pills.

Icebreaking starts on the harbour this week

It's a sure sign of spring in Thunder Bay. This week two American icebreakers will be working to break up the harbour ice. Canadian Coast spokesperson Andy Maillet says the Penobscot Bay and Mobile Bay will be here by Friday.  He says they are smaller ships than Canada's Samuel Risley or the America cutter Makinaw, but are well suited for the work they will be doing.  Maillet warns the work will create unstable ice conditions.. (Pictured:  Penobscot Bay)

Record breaking weather continues to blanket the Northwest

The record warmth continues in the Northwest. Environment Canada confirmed record highs in Thunder Bay as well as a number of other locations in the region. Meterologist Jim Prime says we could see more records today. Prime says it will be a different story by the weekend with temperatures dropping back to seasonal levels.

Gang activity on the rise in Thunder Bay

Police in the Northwest are facing a rise in gang activity. Three major native gangs based in Manitoba are expanding into the city. Police Chief Bob Herman says these gangs are getting very sophisticated in drug distribution. Herman says these gangs are recruiting new members from troubled back grounds. Herman says while we aren't seeing much violence yet, there is the possibility of turf wars breaking out and that is something police are closely watching.

Cavendish Cup rankings are in and the Thunderwolves are fourth

The Thunderwolves are ranked 4th for next weekend's Cavendish Cup. The Wolves are in Pool A with topped ranked Alberta and 6th ranked UQTR. McGill, St. Marys and Manitoba are round out pool B. The first action for the Wolves will be next Friday against the loser of Thursday night's game between Alberta and UQTR. The McGill and Manitoba kick off the tournament Thursday afternoon at 2pm.

Fire Chief issues thin ice caution

An ice warning from the Thunder Bay Fire and Rescue Service. Chief John Hay says the alert is coming earlier than normal. He says you should stay off the ice on all the rivers, streams and lakes adding, water on top of the ice and waterflow underneath has caused considerable erosion.   Hay says there have been no close calls so far

BISNO hosts virtual dirt car races

A local charity is back raising money for Brain Injury Support Services of Northern Ontario. The group hosts a computer dirt racing event at the SportsDome every year. Spokesperson Jessie Bielski is inviting you to take part.  They're looking for you to put together a team of 5 people.    The entry fee is 500 dollars in pledges per team.   Over the last 3 years 20 thousand dollars has been raised.  The event takes place April 17th.

Health Unit introduces new MOH

The new Medical Officer of Health for the Thunder Bay District is Dr. Henry Kurban. Because of rules by the Ontario College of Physicians and Surgeons, the 34 year old Kurban says his scope of responsibility is limited for one year.   The restricted licence means he'll be under the supervision of Dr. Graham Pollett the MOH from the Middlesex-London Health Unit and also Dr. Samuel Graham in Thunder Bay.    Until that  year is complete Kurban is officially considered the Acting Medical Officer Health.

NAN Women's council host 4th annual forum.

The fourth annual Nishnawbe Aski Nation Women's Traning Forum is underway. Deputy Grand Chief Mike Metatawabin says its an empowering event that gives a voice to NAN women.  He says drug and alcohol abuse is deffinately the greatest issue facing his people.  The event includes workshops on a number of topics including wellness, education, parenting and violence.

NAN Grand Chief is encouraging Harper government to adopt UN resolution

The Grand Chief of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation is encouraging the Harper Government to adopt a UN resolution on the rights of aboriginals. Grand Chief Stan Beardy says Canada is the only country who hasn't signed the declaration and its about time the Federal government gets inline with the rest of the world.  Beardy says the declaration sets the perametres on how business is done with aboriginals and is vital for the future First Nations people.

Police looking for drug store robber

Thunder Bay Police are looking for a man who robbed a North Edward Street Drug Store. Police say the man entered the Shoppers Drug Mart Sunday and walked out with a quanitity of prescription drugs. The suspect appeared to have a handgun.

Combined Forces Organized Crime Unit makes drug bust

Over 15 thousand dollars worth of illegal drugs have been taken of the streets. The Combined Forces Organized Crime Unit conducted a search of an apartment yesterday morning in the 100 block of Marks Street. A 24 year old man was arrested and a number of firearms, drugs and almost 5 thousand dollars in cash was seized.

Early morning fire rips through Northside house

A house fire in the North side forced Thunder Bay Fire and Rescue to call in 5 pumpers. Crews responded to a two alarm blaze just before 5:00 this morning at a house on 100 Block of Fitzgerald Street. Officials says no one was home at the time.

Missing man located

Missing man Donald Potan has been found safe and sound. Thunder Bay police found the 49 year old on May Street last night. Potan had been missing since last Thursday.