Pullia reflects on campaign

Former City Councillor Frank Pullia feels he put up a good fight in the Mayor's race.  Pullia lost his council spot, but notes he doesn't regret his decision to run.  The former at large council member says he could sense people wanted change, and he offered it but Hobbs was a more radical change.  This was Pullia's fourth attempt for Mayor.  Pullia stopped by to congratulate Hobbs last night.

Inntowner coming down

You can officially say good-bye to the Inntowner Hotel.  Starting this week, the city is  tearing it down to put up a parking lot.  Officials say it's part of the plan to revitalize the city's south core. 

EcoSuperior supports plastic bag ban

Plastic bags at grocery stores could be on the way out, if EcoSuperior and an MP from London Ontario get their way. The MP is introducing a private members bill calling for an out right ban on plastic grocery bags. EcoSuperior Executive Director Ellen Mortfield says Thunder Bay people use reusable bags very often and feels we are ready for a ban.  Mortfield says EcoSuperior will be talking to our local MP's to see how they will be voting.

It'll be a rainy start to the week

Get ready for some wet and wild weather. Environment Canada's Geoff Coulson says we are going to get a drenching with as much as 30 millimetres of rain expected to fall tomorrow. Coulson says in addition to the rain its going to be very windy with gusts hitting the 70 kilometre mark.

Dawna Friesen visits our radio station

 Dawna Friesen is back to her roots today.   The new anchor of Global National is in Thunder Bay as part of the network's plan to broadcast the news program from cities across Canada.   She took time this morning to visit our studio and talk about her adventures as a reporter for NBC News and to read a newscast for us.

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NOSM and OPSEU set talk dates

The Northern Ontario School of Medicine strike will continue for the rest of this month at the very least.  OPSEU and NOSM officials won't be heading back to the negotiating table until November 1st.  The two sides haven't met since union members rejected the school's last offer two weeks ago. 

No cause found for fire

The Ontario Fire Marshall has completed the investigation of the West Hotel fire. According to Thunder Bay Fire Rescue, it doesn't look like the investigation was able to uncover the cause of the fire. The site was turned back over to the city yesterday around noon and the next step will likely be demolition.

Family day at the farm for new health care professionals

Around a hundred new health care professionals and medical students along with their families will enjoy a day of activities at Belluz Farm today.

The event is being put on by the Thunder Bay Physician Recruitment & Retention Council.

Thunder Bay Community Relations Coordinator Cheryl Armstrong says it's a good way to show medical professionals what the city has to offer. Armstrong also adds that it gives them a chance to meet one another.

The event is also being sponsored by the Thunder Bay NOSM Group.

Highway improvements

32  highway projects in the region are nearing completion.

Nearly 500 kilometers of highway are being repaved and nine bridges are also being worked on.

Minister of Northern Development Michael Gravelle says that the improvements will lead to safer roads and encourage economic growth.

The province is spending a record $773 million in this years Northern Highways Program.

Minnesota man fined for hunting violations

A Minnesota man learned the hard way about following the rules when it comes to hunting.

The man--who is from Grand Marais--was fined a thousand dollars for firing his gun across a road when he shot a moose last year.

He was also fined another four-hundred dollars for providing a false statement to a Ministry of Natural Resources officer.

The man appeared in court on October 13th in Thunder Bay.

It's illegal to discharge a firearm over or on a public road in Ontario

Electronic waste collection

Not sure what to do with with your old electronics?

Thunder Bay residents will have an opportunity to recycle their old electronic equipment tomorrow. The Ontario Electronic Stewardship program takes place 9:30-2:30 in the Intercity shopping centre parking lot.

Collected materials will be tracked until they are recycled or disposed of in an environmentally responsible way.

The program is being funded by importers, brand owners and assemblers.

NOSM talks back on

The two sides in the Northern Ontario Medical School strike are heading back to the bargaining table November first. They'll be attempting to negotiate a contract to end a strike that has been on since August 16th. It's the first set of talks since the OPSEU members voted to turn down a tentative contract agreement earlier this month.

Burt Transpotation faces operating challenges from City

A transit company providing rides to the Handi-Cap is facing challenges from the City.  The company was offering free rides to Community Living clients but was asked to stop by the City.  Burt Transportation Manager Wayne Boulter says the city feels they're operating as an illegal taxi service.  He wants to speak to council but can't because the City's litigator is investigating.  Boulter says he's not giving up the fight.

Over limit of walleye proves to be costly

Four Illinois men were pinched with an over limit of fish.  Each guy had to cough up 800 dollars for possessing an over limit of Walleye, and only two of them had to pay an extra 500 dollars for lying to a conservation officer.  The illegal fishing activity took place on Smooth Rock Lake near Thunder Bay.

It's "red nose" time again!

The Fort City Kinettes are selling red noses for charity. The project is called "Clowning 4 Kids" Organizer Alexis Szczomak  says the money collected will go towards the George Jeffery Children's Centre and Ronald McDonald House.  The noses are 2 dollars each and can be found at a variety of city locations.

Fire cause probed

Investigators are at the scene of yesterdays fire at the West Hotel on Simpson street. There's still no cause to report. Fire Prevention officer Brian Berringer says they're using heavy machinery to move around the debris.  They're expected to be back there again tomorrow.

OPP investigate ATV accident

A 62 year old man from St. Williams, Ontario was transported to the Thunder Bay hospital Friday. A single vehicle ATV rolled over near Longlac this morning. The driver's injuries are non life threatening.

Fort Frances cereal at Royal Ontario Fair

Residents of southern Ontario will soon get a taste of Rainy River Cereal.  The unique wild rice cereal, being made by a Fort Frances area first nation company will be on display at the Royal Winter Fair in Toronto.  President Drew Atwell says it's an important fair to be at. Atwell says success at the fair will help determine how quickly they can get product out to a wider market.

Northwestern Ontario man honoured

A Fort Frances man who has devoted much of his time to bettering the lives of area cancer patients has been given a Senior Achievement Award by the province. Anthony Kadikoff has been involved in raising funds for Northern Cancer Fund and serves on the Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Centre Foundation. Kadikoff was also one of the leading fundraisers for Tamarack Place which provides the regions cancer patients a place to stay while getting treatment in Thunder Bay.

Former Navy Commander visits Thunder Bay

A commander in the Canadian Navy is visiting Thunder Bay. Commander Steve Waddell is here as part the Navy's centennial and he'll be talking to people about the importance of the Navy and recruitment.  Waddell says with over 90 percent of trade being done by sea a Navy is crucial.  He says Thunder Bay has a strong link to the Navy, through the past and the future.

Thunder Bay election results website

You can find out the election results from the comfort of your couch.  Thunder Bay has launched a new web page that will report the 2010 Municipal Election results.  Unofficial results will be generated on the page starting at 8 Monday.  The website can be found here. You can also tune in to our radio stations for our updates on the election. 

Greenpeace visits on Monday

Greenpeace are in Thunder Bay Monday with their "Caribou Caravan."  The environmental group is pressuring Minister of Northern Development Michael Gravelle and the Ontario Government to save woodland caribou.  Spokesperson Richard Brooks says they'll be bringing their black silhouetted caribou and hour glass.  Greenpeace will meet at Gravelle's constituency office at 10 Monday.

Inflation drops in Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay bucked the trend when it came to the inflation rate.  Our rate dropped from 2.8 percent in August to 2.7 percent last month.  The national rate went from 1.7 to 1.9 percent last month. Ontario's rate held steady at 2.9 percent.

Fort Hope declares a state of emergency

The community of Fort Hope has declared a state of emergency after a string of crimes.  The declaration was made after 3 murders, a string of arsons, animal mutilations and a number other violent crimes have plagued the community this year.  Chief Lewis Nate says they had no choice but to ask for government help.

City police arrest woman after hit and run

A 22 year old woman has been charged in connection with yesterday's early morning hit and run.  Traffic Sergeant Glen Porter says the driver turned her self into police yesterday evening.  An 18 year old girl is in hospital in serious condition after she was hit by a car while walking across Leslie street just before 3 o'clock.  Porter says the victim is making progress.

Local Union unhappy with the Canadian Wheat Board

A local union president is taking aim at the Canadian Wheat Board.  Tom Hamilton of the United Steel Workers Union says the CWB is favouring one grain elevator over others in Thunder Bay.  Hamilton says the vast majority of grain is going through the Mission Island terminal while the other 5 elevators are left with the scraps.  The CWB claims they are just finding the best prices for producers.

Many fires Thursday morning

Fire crews were stretched thin this morning. With most of the city's crews busy fighting the blaze on Simpson street, a second call about a house fire at Queen and High street, then shortly after another call came in for a fire in the Ogden area. The 3rd fire proved to be false. Fire Chief John Hay says additional staff had to be called in to provide service to the rest of the city.

Police make appeal after hit and run

Police say an 18 year old city woman is fighting for her life after being the victim of a hit and run.  They say that Amy Neumueller was walking on Leslie Avenue near Arundel at around 3 o'clock Thursday morning,  when she was hit by a compact car.  Police say the driver didn't stop and left the scene.   They're hoping the driver or someone with information on the incident calls them.

Kenora OPP find explosives

Kenora OPP have more than just firearms and knives to deal with, apparently they also have to deal with explosives.  After searching a house yesterday officers discovered a small amount of explosives with some pills and other drug paraphernalia.  Two men were arrested and are facing charges.

Huge fire guts south side hotel

A raging inferno tore through the West Hotel this morning.  Fire crews are still on scene keeping control of what is left of the building.  There are no reports of any injuries but fire officials say it'll likely take days before any cause could be found.  Chief John Hay says the fire was probably going for a while prior to them getting the call at 4 o'clock.  Hay says since the building was abandoned the cause is likely suspicious.  According to the city the building was pegged for demolition. 

Meanwhile fire crews were stretched thin this morning.  With most of the city's crews busy fighting the blaze on Simpson street, a second call about a house fire at Queen and High street came in.  Shortly after another call came in for a fire in the Ogden area but it was proven to be false. Hay says additional staff had to be called in to provide service to the rest of the city. 

West Hotel Slated for Demolition

A fire at the West Hotel won't change the City's plans for the building. The vacant hotel was recently acquired by the City because the owners didn't pay the taxes. Taranis Contracting group has been awarded the demolition contract for the building and work will start next week. The building's neighbour the Army Navy Air Force Veterans Hall is also set to be demolished. The city acquired the buildings as part as their plan to improve the appearance of neglected properties. The West Hotel building was under security watch at the time, and the cause of the fire is still unknown.

Global National Anchor live in Thunder Bay

A former Thunder Bay broadcaster is making a return visit.  Dawna Friesen the new anchor of Global National will be broadcasting at Marina Park on Monday.  She'll broadcast live starting at 5 on election day. 

Hit and run leaves one woman in hospital

A woman is in hospital with serious injuries after being hit by a vehicle this morning.  Just after 3 o'clock the woman was hit while walking down the 400 block of Leslie street.  Police say the driver of the vehicle fled the scene and the victim was taken to the Health Sciences Centre. 

Federal Opposition Leader paying Thunder Bay a visit

Michael Ignatieff will be making a stop in Thunder Bay next week.  The federal Liberal leader will be bringing his open mic town hall meetings to Confederation college next Thursday from 11:30 to 1.  It'll be at the student commons area of the Shuniah building.

Many Thunder Bay winners at NADF

Several Thunder Bay based businesses won at last night's Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund business awards. Janet Furoy took home the Youth Entrepreneur award and is proud of her Spa Euphoria and Wellness Retreat. Clayton Clace won the Busniness Man of the year award. Clace is originally from Sioux Lookout and maintain's heating systems in the far north. Clace hopes he will inspire other first nations residents to start businesses. Gabriel Cross won best new business for her Gabby's Spudz and more.

Tough talk from City Manager

The city says it will not be intimidated by a 126 million dollar lawsuit fromy Horizon Wind. The company launched the suit this week over changes made to it's lease agreement with the city over wind turbines. City Manager TimCommisso says the city will file a defense and will seek arbitration to resolve the dispute.

Levesque blames drugs and poverty for ranking

The second in command at the City Police Service says  vices and social conditions are contributing to a new dubious distinction for our city.  MacLean's Magazine has pegged Thunder Bay as the 23rd most dangerous city in the country and number 2 in the murder rankings.  Deputy Police Chief J-P Levesque blames drug addiction and poverty for many of our crime problems.

Katimavik looking for billet families

Katimavik is looking for host families for October and November.  Spokesperson Sarah Tamosetis says they have enough billet families, but they're still looking for back ups. Katimavik teens will be living in the City from October 28th until November 7th.

Hannam says no to hand count

The City of Thunder Bay is saying no-way to a petition demanding a hand count of election ballots.  Returning Officer John Hannam says even if they wanted to do a hand count, it's too late.  Andy Wolff launched the petition this week.

Report targets NW LHIN

An Auditor General report shows the Northwest Local Health Integration Network paid for consultants. The three LHINs studied spent anywhere from 224 thousand dollars to 1.4 million per year on consultants.  NDP Leader Andrea Horwath says she isn't surprised.  The report also states the LHINs didn't have an adequate process in place that would ensure consulting services were planned for.

No delays for waterfront development

Preparations are in place for the city's waterfront development project as winter approaches.  Manager Katherine Dugmore says they've already set the stage for how they'll handle the colder temperatures.  For instance,  building construction has been timed so that all the indoor work can take place during the harsher winter months.  Dugmore says the development remains on schedule.

Casino cut inches to 600 K.

The city's latest cut of the casino revenue works out to almost 600 thousand dollars.    That's close to 6 thousand dollars more than what was given to the city in July and almost 30 thousand more than the spring dividend.   Every three months the city gets 5 per cent of the revenue from the slot machines at the government run gambling casino.

Special Olympics are coming together

Thunder Bay is just 90 days away from hosting North Western Ontario's first ever Special Olympics Winter games. Games Manager Julie Tilbury says things are really shaping up but they are still short of their fundraising goal. She says one way people can donate is by sponsoring an athlete.  Chair JP Levesque says they have raised about 3 quarters of their 800 thousand dollar fundraising goal.

Habitat for Humanity is going to school

Habitat for humanity is getting a huge helping hand from Confederation. Students are volunteering to build the latest Habitat house and will get some hands on experience. Habitat's Dianne Mitchell says its a great partnership for the organization because it will help ensure the house is completed in time for the family to move in by Christmas. Student Michael Kehler says there is no better way to learn than to actually get your hands dirty and build.

Thunder Bay 2nd in the country in murders

McLean's Magazine has pegged Thunder Bay as the 23rd most dangerous city in the country. The real bad news for the city came in the murder rankings where we ranked 2nd in the country behind only Abbotsford BC. Thunder Bay also ranked 12th in robberies.