LUSU challenging board of governors

  Lakehead University's Student Union is taking the school's Board of Governors to court. They're challenging the board's conflict of interest by-laws which they feel remove the rights of student governors to participate in decisions involving tuition fees. LUSU says the Governors are silencing student voices.

Police training causes confusion

City police are trying to snuff out some confusion about a training exercise they ran on Tuesday.  They say took place at Gary's Towing on Alloy Drive.  Police say that callers to our news tip line may have thought there was a big police operation going down, when in fact it was for training only.

Let the detours begin

The construction season is officially underway.  The city says that as of 8 a.m.Thursday Northern Avenue will be closed between May and Vickers.   It's so that sewer work can take place.   Officials say it should take just over a week to complete.

Hundreds of calls and emails after MP jumps ship

The head of the Thunder Bay-Superior North NDP Riding Association is still fielding hundreds of calls and emails days after MP Bruce Hyer's decision to quit the party. Maurice Grinstead says members are sympathetic to his plight knowing he has to find a new candidate to run in the next federal election.  He admits that while a lot of people are angry at what's happened others are  understanding.   Ginstead says it's too early to nominate a candidate, that will have to wait until 2015.

Motorcycle Ride for Dad June 16th

Organizers are gearing up for the 12th annual Bell Motorcycle Ride for Dad this June.  Bell Spokesperson Terry Young says they have a new route this year that will start at the Keg.  Health Sciences Foundation President Glen Craig says the event not only raises money but also awareness about Prostate Cancer.  The ride will take place Saturday, June 16th. 

Second arrest in Pikangikum murder

Police say that a second arrest has been made in connection with a murder probe in Pikangikum First Nation.   It follows the death of 32 year old Fitzgerald Owen whose body was found on the side of the road in the community on April 14th.   One charge has already been laid in the case against a 23 year old man and now, as a result of further investigation,  police have charged a 29 year old woman, who is a resident of the community, with aggravated assault.

Two vehicle mishap in Westfort

Only minor injuries to report following a two vehicle collision just before 6 p.m. on Tuesday.  It took place at the intersection of Edward and Walsh.  

Mayors R Us

Three former Thunder Bay mayors, and our current mayor Keith Hobbs, are joining forces to help charity. They have agreed to raise money for the United Way. Hobbs, along with Ken Boshcoff, Jack Masters and Lynn Peterson made the announcement at City Hall Tuesday afternoon.

Water plan in final stages

The process of guaranteeing the safety of local drinking water is taking its final steps. The Lakehead Source Protection Authority says its final plan for the government is available to the public for review and comment. Chair Bill Bartley says it's a culmination of 9 years of work with the Ministry of the Environment. After the review process the plan goes to the minister for approval in August.

Stark art exposes disorder

A eye opening photo project is on display at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery. The project is an artistic attempt to raise awareness on eating disorders. Spokesperson for the local support group Healey Gardiner says eating disorders are much more common than people think. The display will be open from April 25th to the 29th.

New web scam hits city

City police are warning resident to be aware of the latest in a long line of Internet scams.  Police say this one involves a caller to a home claiming to be from Microsoft and trying to gain remote access to your computer.  Police say that's an open invitation to someone gaining access to all your personal information. Police have received 6 complaints locally so far.

Wilson supports Hyer's decision

The president of the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce doesn't appear too concerned about Bruce Hyer's decision to sit as an Independent in Ottawa. Harold Wilson believes that Hyer will still be able to represent our city's needs on Parliament Hill.

Concession better than election

The decision by the minority Liberal government to make budget concessions to the NDP is better than an election. That's the feeling of Chamber of Commerce President Harold Wilson who says it's more important that Chamber concerns remain on the table at Queen's Park.

PARO launches online courses

Thunder Bay's Paro Centre is reaching out to remote First Nation women.  Starting in May they'll be offering online learning classes.  Spokesperson Linda McGuire says they want to teach women about forming business "clusters."  McGuire says women have been forming small groups for years but they haven't thought of it as a  way to form a business.

Blood tragedy remembered

People living with diseases they got from tainted blood are gathering in Thunder Bay today. The Northern Ontario Region of Hemophilia is holding a remembrance ceremony for those impacted by the 1980's Tainted Blood Tragedy. Spokesperson Teresa Genereux says the tainted blood gave 700 Canadians HIV and Hepatitis C.

Innova touted for Mining Centre of Excellence

Consultants hired by the city say that Innova Park could be the site for not only a new events centre, but a proposed Mining Centre of Excellence. As part of the study looking at the Junot and Golf Links roadway the consultants told councillors Innova Park can accommodate quite a bit of activity. The consultants also say the area could be the site for big box retailers. However Mayor Keith Hobbs believes the entire study is flawed because it's been shown the mining industry is not interested in moving to Innova. 

Rafferty disappointed over Hyer's decision

Bruce Hyer is not getting support for his decision to leave the NDP from his federal Thunder Bay colleague. MP John Rafferty believes that Hyer's plan to sit as an independent will compromise his ability to be an effective MP. Rafferty thinks he should have honoured the possibility of working within the system and solving his problems instead of just leaving.

Hyer quits NDP

Thunder Bay MP Bruce Hyer is embarking on a new journey in the House of Commons. He has quit the NDP to sit as an Independent. Hyer says there are many reasons for his decision, but a recent move by leader Thomas Mulcair on the gun registry sealed the deal because it would have forced Hyer to vote against the party line again. Hyer also says he's disappointed with the dysfunction he sees on Parliament Hill.

Good treats for good deeds

Youth will now be rewarded for random acts of kindness in the city. A new positive ticketing campaign was launched today by Mac's Convenience store in partnership with the city's Crime Prevention Council. Spokesperson Tom Walters believes it could benefit the city. Police will give out the coupons for free frosters when they spot youth doing good deeds.

City lawmakers tackle the urban landscape

Councillors will get an education on urban landscaping tonight at City Hall.  A consultant will be on hand to explain his proposal for making laws so that new city developments include landscaping in their design concept.   As well tonight councillors will consider supporting area First Nations development and involvement in  Ring of Fire mining projects.

Speeding ticket leads to more

A Nova Scotia man is in trouble with the law after a speeding ticket turned into something more on the Trans Canada Highway near Marathon Sunday.   Police say that in addition to having outstanding warrants from Southern Ontario the man and his passenger were unable to tell police how they came to have about 30 thousand dollars in their possession.   The money is now is the hands of police. 

It's Victims of Crime Awareness Week

Anyone can become a victim of crime.  That's the message from Thunder Bay's Victim Services during the 7th annual National Crime Awareness Week.  Chair Sharon Bak wants to raise awareness through the community about their services.  The organization held a special flag raising ceremony at City Hall Monday morning.

Poverty plays role in residents quality of life

A local report suggests that the quality of life for many people in Thunder Bay is impeded by barriers which aren't always under their control.   Quality of Life Network Chair Nancy Chamberlain says of the over 200 people questioned, those living in poverty felt they were being discriminated against.  The Network is made up of 28 non-profit organizations and the report was funded by the Provincial Government's Northern Ontario Heritage Fund.

National BIA conference on in T.Bay

Thunder Bay's local business districts are looking forward to picking the brains of other business leaders during a four day conference at the Valhalla Inn.  The National Business Improvement Area conference has brought in over 200 delegates from across the Country and Local Spokesperson Jim Hupka says there's a lot they can learn.  It's the first time the conference has been held North of Lake Superior.

Rafferty is FEDNOR critic

Local Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty is the newly appointed official opposition critic for FedNor. Rafferty is happy with the decision and looks forward to continue representing Northern Ontarians. NDP leader Tom Mulcair announced the decision at the unveiling of his first shadow cabinet as leader of the official opposition.

Impaired Driving Accidents

Police are dealing with three separate impaired driving accidents that happened over night. One man who was driving a stolen SUV and crashed through a fence on Cameron Street now faces charges of possession of stolen property, impaired driving and failing to provide breath samples. The other two accidents occurred on Mary and Lillie Streets. Those drivers are also charged with impaired driving and will appear in court next month. No one was hurt in the accidents.

McQuaker faces arrest

A bench warrant is out for Barry McQuaker.    He  was a no-show for his scheduled court appearance in Thunder Bay today.  The hearing was to deal with a peace bond which would put extended restrictions on who the 56 year old is allow to see and where he can go.  McQuaker spent time in jail in the 1990's after admitting to cremating and burying the remains of his 12 year old son Jason.    In an appearance earlier this year court heard that McQuaker has been a victim of homelessness and mental health issues. 

OLG pays 4th quarter payment to city

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation today issued a fourth quarter payment of more than $624,242 to the City of Thunder Bay. It amounts to 5% of the slot machine revenue at the local casino from January to March of this year. The total amount for the quarter is up some $44,000 dollars from the same period last year.

Province funds lung research

The Provincial government has announced $1 million dollars in funding to support and advance the pulmonary work being done at the Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute. Dr. Mitch Albert and his group will receive the funding and use it towards diagnostic technology that focuses on such illnesses as cystic fibrosis, asthma along with lung and breast cancer.

Gravelle helps break ground on flight centre

Construction is under way on the Province's new flight training centre for water bomber aircraft in Sault Ste. Marie, which will create jobs and boost the local economy. 
MPP and Natural Resources Minister Michael Gravelle says "this new facility will help us train our pilots, right here in Northern Ontario, while helping to protect our families and communities."

Local winners pick up cheque

It's now a reality for Thunder Bay's Len Carr and his wife Joanna. They were in Toronto today at the SickKids Hospital to pick up their cheque for 1.5 million dollars. Len wants to use the winnings for retirement planning and to share it among his 8 siblings and 2 sons. They have supported the SickKids Lottery since 2007.

Leon back in May

A former Confederation College student is due back in court next month in connection with a case that caused an international sensation. Adam Leon is charged with theft following an incident about three years ago, when a Cessna was taken from the college flight school and flown into the United States. In front of a Thunder Bay judge today his lawyer asked for more time so he can get some court information from Missouri. Leon is now scheduled for a court appearance May 28th.

Mauro's bill reaches committee

Thunder Bay MPP Bill Mauro is happy to see his private members bill reach committee level. The legislation passed its second reading last week in the legislature. Mauro's bill promotes the use of wood in new government funded buildings.

Fire Marshal has no cause yet

Ontario's Fire Marshal office continues to investigate a fatal house fire on Victoria Avenue Thursday.  Fire Marshal's office Spokesperson Carol Gravelle says they've yet to determine the cause of the blaze.  An autopsy is being conducted on the 39 year old man who died. 

Bachelors raise cash for cancer

Another huge donation will be made to the Northern Cancer Fund thanks to the annual Bachelors for Hope Charity Auction. The 14th annual event raised more than 94-thousand dollars, bringing the total to more than 700-thousand dollars raised. Proceeds from the event stay in Northwestern Ontario and help with advances in screening, diagnosis and research.

More accolades for NOSM

The Northern Ontario School of Medicine is being honoured by the Cancer Quality Council of Ontario. A cancer project was selected as the 2011 recipient of the Cancer Quality Council of Ontario Innovation Award. The project helps connect remote First Nation's women with HPV immunization.

Franco-Festival coming soon

Organizers of the annual Franco-festival are gearing up for this year's big event. The event will promote the historical and culture heritage of Francophones in the city. Spokesperson Claudette Gleeson hopes the event will be an attraction. The event is on May 26 at the Sports Dome.

Speakers set for NOMA gathering

The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association now has its agenda set for next week's annual meeting in Kenora. NOMA president, David Canfield says a number of provincial politicians are scheduled to be in attendance, including PC leader Tim Hudak and Andrea Horwath of the NDP. Canfield says they have confirmed appearances by Natural Resources Minister Michael Gravelle, Municipal Affairs Minister Kathleen Wynn. for the so-called bear pit session.

Bust nets coke and cannabis

A 30 year old Thunder Bay man is in custody following a drug bust in the city this week. The bust follows searches of a home on Hazelwood Drive and a business in Westfort. Over 175 thousand dollars of cocaine, hash and marijuana was seized in the operation. Police say he is being charged with several accounts of possession for the purpose to trafficking.

3 new officers to be sworn in

Friday will be a big day for 3 police recruits. They will be promoted to Constables by the Thunder Bay Police Service. Sgt Greg Stein says the ceremony is a right of passage. The event is at the Provincial Court on Arthur at 3 o'clock.

Police revive missing person case

It now been 5 years since the disappearance of Michael Bailey. The Thunder Bay native has been missing since 2007. Detective Sergeant Don Lewis says they are looking into the case again at the request of the family. He urges anybody who knows about the case to come forward. The Thunder Bay Police number is 684-1200 and Crime Stoppers number is 623-TIPS.

New road to Fort William Historical Park

Fort William Historical Park is creating an emergency road into the tourist attraction. Spokesperson Ed Cameron says they recently purchased two properties on Broadway Avenue and demolished the homes to make way for road work. Cameron says in the future they may consider making it another road option for the public.

Man dies in morning fire

City police confirm a 39 year old man is dead after an early morning fire at 438 West Victoria Avenue. Platoon Chief John Mill says they found a man inside the bungalow. There's heavy smoke and fire damage in the kitchen area.  The Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause. 

Cause not known in South Gillies fire

South Gillies Fire is having a difficult time pin pointing a cause for a house fire on Wednesday. Fire Chief Scott Hole says they may never be able to identify the cause because the home was completely destroyed. No one was hurt.

City wants feedback

The City is looking for resident's thoughts on the current state of the rental market in Thunder Bay. Some neighbours have complained about parking on streets and messy yards, while students have complained there's very few rentals available. To visit the City's public feedback section click here.

Sports round up

In the Dudley Hewitt Cup last night, The Soo Thunderbirds defeated the Thunder Bay North Stars 4-3. In the NHL, Pittsburgh's Jordan Staal had a hat trick in a 10-3 game against the Philadelphia Flyers.

No injuries in rural house fire

OPP are confirming a house fire in South Gillies this afternoon.  It was called in at around 1 o'clock and involved a home on Highway 595. They say it began in the attic, but the cause isn't known.   No one is hurt.

Bentz would like feds to demolish elevators

Abandoned grain elevators in the city are not only an eyesore for many, but it's causing headaches for the city's Waterfront Committee and it's efforts to spruce up the lakeshore.  Chair Mark Bentz says ideally he'd like to have the federal government play a roll in tearing down the structures.

Good grades for Con College

Confederation College continues to perform ahead or at the provincial average. A new report suggests that student and employer satisfaction has risen, as well as the school's graduate employment rate which is number one in the province. School President Jim Madder credits excellent dedication and work ethic for the success of the school.

Matthews defends addiction support

Deb Matthews

There's a renewed call for more help to those dealing with the withdrawal of Oxycontin in Ontario.  Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell says she raised the need for a substance abuse stategy for First Nations for two months. Health Minister Deb Matthews says she is responding by acting on the recommendations of a panel the government put together on the issue.  Matthews says it includes sending more doctors to support a methadone treatment program and strengthen support through Telehealth.