LRCA Lifts Flood Watch

The flood watch is now over.   The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority says that in the last 2 days we've received up to 50 millimetres of rain and with no rain forecast for the next couple of days the Authority decided to lift the flood watch. 

St. Pat's Students Decorate Uniforms

It's the last day of school for St. Patrick's High School Students in Thunder Bay and a Grade 12 prank left several students outside on the sidewalk.Valedictorian Jacob Luczak says they decided to decorate their St. Pat's t-shirts and have classmates sign them.  Meanwhile, Vice Principal Mike Filipetti says students were told to change because the uniforms didn't cover their shoulders, and midriffs.  Filipetti feels the incident could have gone differently.  The school had also asked for Grade 12 students uniforms to be donated for future students who can't afford the formal attire.

 
Vice Principal Mike Filipetti

City Facing 300 Million Dollar Class Action

The city is being sued.   A class action suit has been filed in Superior Court alleging negligence on various levels in connection with the May 28th flood. Those allegations still need to be proven in court.  The suit, on behalf of flood victims, is asking for general and special damages in the amount of 300 million dollars.  The city is not commenting.

Cops Still Looking For Robbery Suspect

Police are still on the hunt for a robbery suspect involved in an incident at Janzen's Pharmacy on Frederica Street. It happened around 4:40 p.m. yesterday afternoon when a man entered the store, wielding an edged weapon. Police say the suspect, a heavy-set Native-Canadian man, wearing a hoodie, took off with an undisclosed amount of property. Anyone with information that can help with the case are asked to call police.

6 To 8 Months To Repair Water Treatment Plant

The Atlantic Avenue Water Treatment Plant is far from being repaired after the flood. General Manager of Infrastructure and Operations, Darrell Matson says it will take 6 to 8 months to get it back to the way it was, prior to the May 28th flooding. Matson says work at the plant continues and he will advise council as to any additional repairs or purchases they may need to make once an independant firm has concluded its investigation into the breach.

Cats Washed Out

The Thunder Bay Border Cats and Waterloo Buck were rained out once again last night at Subway Field. They'll now try and play "Twi-Night" double-headers for the next three straight days. The 7 inning games begin at 6:05, starting tonight.

Heavy Rainfall Warning Ended

A heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warning has ended for the Thunder Bay area.  Environment Canada issued the warnings earlier today after 40 millimeters of rain fell last night and another 30 millimeters was expected throughout today.  Meterologist Geoff Coulson says we can expect light rain throughout this evening. 

Flooding Kills Duluth Zoo Animals

It's a sad day at the Lake Superior Zoo in Duluth, Minnesota. The entire facility flooded as the result of the overnight rain and Development Director Anita Skutevik says almost a dozen barnyard animals died. She says some animals managed to swim out of their enclosures including one of their star attractions Berlin the polar bear. She says Berlin was tranquilized and is now recovering and doing fine. Two seals also managed to escape, but were captured a short time later.

Budget Passes

A summer election in Ontario has been averted with the passage of the minority government's budget. Thunder Bay Atikokan MPP Bill Mauro says he's glad the budget passed.  Right up until the vote the Liberals said they could not trust the New Democrats to keep their word and let the budget pass, but in the end the NDP did as promised.

Highway 597 Washed Out

OPP are reporting Highway 597 between Mannisto Road and Nicholson Road is closed. There was a wash-out and water is flowing over the highway. There's a detour at Mannisto road.

Project Supports Seniors With Dementia

St. Joseph's Care Group is introducing a new behavioral supports project for seniors with dementia. The money for the 1.2 million dollar plan has been approved through the Local Health Integration Network. Spokesperson Susan Pilatzke says the new project will mean new staff will be hired to develop the plan.

You Thought We Had It Bad

The City of Duluth, Minnesota is in a State of Emergency as the result of flooding caused by torrential rain.  Environment Canada's Geoff Coulson says they received 175 millimetres overnight.   Just as people did during our storm last month people there are posting pictures on the local radio station website and it clearly shows the devastation.

Summer In The Parks Ready To Roll

The Summer in the Parks is kicking off on June 27. Eight outdoor concerts will be taking place over the summer featuring live music along with many more attractions, including childrens activities, artisan's market and on-site consessions. Summer in the Parks takes place every wednesday evening throughout the summer.

Duluth Streets Like Waterfalls According To Reporter

Thunder Bay's Sister City Duluth is experiencing similar flood conditions this morning to what we saw three weeks ago. Up to six inches, or 15 centimetres of rain has been reported in and around the city. Police are advising motorists not to go anywhere. Reporter Alan Hoglund of WDIO television news in Duluth says the streets were like rivers.

It's Not Over Till It's Over

It's steady as she goes for the city's sewage treatment plant after the overnight rainfall. Spokesperson Darrell Matson says they are monitoring the plant and he says "so far so good."   He says the plant responded well to the increased flow.   Matson says it's not over yet, there's more rain predicted and officials will continue to watch over the plant to avoid a flood like the one that happened three weeks ago.

No Flooding Reported By LRCA

The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority is monitoring area waterways for flooding.  So far the Authority says we received 40 to 50 millimetres of rain overnight and 10 to30 millimetres is expected today, maybe more in thunderstorms.  No major flooding is being reported, however the Flood Watch continues.

Highway 61 Washed Out In Spots Down To Duluth

Highway 61 South of the American Border is closed this morning because of washouts in spots, all the way down to Duluth. Duluth Police are advising against travel in the entire city of Duluth. Rainfall of more than 6 inches or 15 centimetres in spots was recorded in the city and along Highway 61 along the North Shore. Various American media outlets and law enforcement are reporting extensive damage in the city of Duluth itself, with roads starting to collapse along the hillside. There have been reports of people being rescued from their basement apartments, falling into sinkholes of collapsed roads and of rivers and streams taking over roadways. Highway 61 remains closed in various spots with washouts, overflowing streams and rivers, washed out culverts and washed out roads.

Cats To Make Up Rained Out Game Tonight

The Thunder Bay Border Cats will try and make up their rained out game against the Waterloo Bucks tonight at Subway field, if they can dodge the weather one more time. The two teams will try and play a "Twi-Night" double-header starting at 6:05. Both games will be seven innings long.

Bartolucci talks Ring Of Fire

Minister of Northern Development and Mines Rick Bartolucci continues to promote his government's commitments to developing the Ring of Fire.  Bartolucci was the key speaker at a mining forum in Thunder Bay today and told the audience about Ontario's recent signing of an updated contract with Webequie First Nation.  The Memorandum of Cooperation includes benefits for communities such as regional infrastructure and environmental monitoring.

Class Action Suit To Be Filed This Week

A proposed class action lawsuit against the City of Thunder Bay involving flood victims is expected to be filed within days. That's the word from lawyer Chris Watkins who says the number of people requesting involvement is growing rapidly and could reach up to 15 hundred participants over the next few weeks. Watkins says he has partnered with the Merchant Law Group, a top Canadian firm, to help with the case.

Donated Dollars Not Flowing Yet

The idea to distribute 350 thousand dollars raised by the Salvation Army to flood victims remains in limbo. Spokesperson Gail Kromm says the plan is still to help those with no or insufficient insurance, but in the meantime the organization will be providing support that will include food, clothing and furniture. Anyone who wants to apply has to make an appointment by calling 345-6492

Anglers Get Caught In Storm

A couple of anglers are fortunate to be alive after being caught in Monday's late afternoon thunderstorm.   They were out on Northern Light Lake in Nolalu when the storm hit.  A spokesperson at the resort says they simply anchored down in the middle of the lake and covered themselves up until the storm passed.   Meantime the resort is reporting there were some trees downed and hail damage to some trailers.

Ontario Chamber Gets NWO Input

The efforts continues to get the economic message of Northwestern Ontario to the rest of the province. Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce President Harold Wilson hopes a one day conference in the city today  helped in contributing to an economic vision the Ontario Chamber of Commerce has planned for the province.  Meantime Wilson credits the new president of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce with paying more attention to Northwestern Ontario. He gives props to Allan O'Dette for taking the time to visit the area several times since he was elected.

Special Weather Statement Update

Thunder Bay, Atikokan, Upsala and Ignace are just some of the Northwestern Ontario Communities affected by a special weather statement. Environment Canada Meterologist Geoff Coulson says they won't know until this afternoon if Thunder Bay will get the lion's share of rainfall today. If we get hit by the brunt of the storm we can expect 50 to 75 millimeters of rain. Coulson notes most of the rain could fall in the communities to the west of us; with a possibility of the Lakehead region receiving 10 to 20 millimetres of rain.

PWU Wants Both Biomass & Natural Gas

Ontario's Power Workers Union wants Thunder Bay's coal fired power plant to use biomass.  The Province is shutting down all coal plants by 2014, and the local facility is scheduled to be converted into using natural gas.  Spokesperson Bob Menard says they want the local plant to use a mixture of both wood pellets and natural gas.  The union is holding a town hall meeting on the issue tonight at the West Thunder Community Centre.

L.R.C.A. Updates Possible Rainfall Amounts

The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority continues its flood watch for Thunder Bay and surrounding area. They are advising that 15 to 20 millimetres of rain could fall this afternoon and overnight. An additional 15 to 20 millimetres is possible in severe thunderstorms or isolated areas.
Areas West of Thunder Bay could see higher rainfall amounts.

City In A State Of Readiness

City officials say they are prepared for the incoming thunder storms. They are on alert and will be monitoring areas of risk this afternoon, tonight and tomorrow with high rainfall accumulations expected. Mayor Keith Hobbs says one lesson we can learn from the flood of May 28th is to move your valuables upstairs and out of the basement.

Drinking & Pregnancy Don't Mix

Thunder Bay's Rotary Club wants to spread the word about drinking while pregnant. The club is bringing in the Executive Director of Healthy Brains For Children Jody Allen Crowe. Crowe says Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder impacts everyone, not just women. Crowe will be holding a workshop Wednesday at Confederation College.

Flash Flood Watch Issued For Minnesota And Wisconsin

If you are travelling to the United States today you may want to use extreme caution because a flash flood warning is in effect for areas in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Isabella, Hibbing, Two Harbors, Grand Marais, Walker, Grand Rapids, Hill City, Duluth, Cloquet and Superior are all under a flash flood watch.

Special Weather Statement Issued For Thunder Bay

Environment Canada is issuing a special weather statement for the city of Thunder Bay, Atikokan, Upsala, Quetico, Superior West, Lake Nipigon, Wabikimi, Nipigon, Marathon and Superior North. Multiple thunderstorms are forecast to track through these areas beginning later today and continue through the night into Wednesday. Rainfall associated with this thunderstorm activity will be highly variable, however total amounts may be as high as 50 to 75 mm in some localities. Environment Canada is advising you to monitor future forecasts and warnings as they may be required or extended.

Cats Come Home With A .500 Record

The Thunder Bay Border Cats are returning home for a 5 game home stand starting tonight against Waterloo. The Cats wrapped-up a 2 game sweep against Duluth with a 7-2 win on the road last night, improving their record to 10-and-10 on the season. They are 5 games back in the North Division.

School Safety Zone To Be Looked At

City Council is asking it's staff to look into creating a school safety zone around Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School.  Mayor Keith Hobbs brought the issue up on behalf of the school.  The reduced speed zone is proposed for the Edward Street corridor between Churchill Drive and Riverview Drive.

Landscaping Guidelines Approved

City Council is moving ahead with a new landscaping policy for four routes through the City.  Council approved a long term plan for the complete corridors of May Street, Arthur Street, Red River Road and Simpson Street.  City Councillor Paul Pugh says the plan doesn't mean they'll be spending money immediately on the project it's just a long term vision for the routes that connect Thunder Bay from the North to the South sections of the City.

City Ready In Wake Of Flood Watch

The City is on alert monitoring for city-wide flooding risks after the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority issued a flood watch.  City staff are ready to deploy pumping equipment and resources if needed.  
Another flood update will be held by the City at noon Tuesday.

Motorcycle Ride For Dad

This year's Motorcycle Ride for Dad is being deemed a success.  The Sunday event brought in just over 47 thousand dollars for the Northern Cancer Fund.

This Old Barn Open Again

A restaurant in Murillo is now open after being forced to close last month for health concerns. The Thunder Bay District Health Unit says it's investigation into This Old Barn is now complete. They say people who ate at the establishment became sick from well water contaminated with the Norovirus. The owner has upgraded to a new water treatment system.

LRCA Issues Flood Watch

The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority is putting Thunder Bay and 5 surrounding townships back on flood watch.  The LRCA is issuing the warning because of the heavy rainfall expected in the next two days.  We could see as much as 25 to 50 millimetres of rain in the coming days.

Assault By Chocolate

The battle between anti abortionists and pro-choice supports in Thunder Bay is alive and well. On the weekend a group of out of town pro-life advocates were at Bay and Algoma showing graphic pictures when they were accosted. City police Constable Julie Tilbury says it appears someone poured chocolate milk over the heads of the demonstrators. A 36 year old man was arrested and charged with four counts of assault. The person has been released from custody with a promise to appear in court. No name has been released.

Madder Has Regional Plans

The president of Confederation College is talking about expanding the number of courses currently available at its satellite campuses throughout the region. Jim Madder says they are looking at a number of programs that could be provided to communities outside of Thunder Bay. Madder has just returned from touring northwestern Ontario for a series of graduation ceremonies.

Cops Nab Theft Suspects

Forest Street residents are urged check their vehicles. Police were alerted to the suspicious behaviour of three young men at around 3:30 a.m. this morning. Police located property believed to be taken from various vehicles and arrested two 19 year olds and an 18 year old. Anyone in the Forest Street area who is missing items from their vehicle is being asked to call the police and help with trying to identify the property.

Prespare For Alot More Rain

The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority is giving us a heads up on how much more rain to expect over the next day. In it's Flood Outlook Statement the Authority says we received anywhere from 12 to 30 millimetres over the weekend. An additional 50 millimetres is possible tomorrow along with up to 25 millimetres if thunderstorms form. 

Master Storm Drainage Study To Be Recommended

The City is now looking at long-term solutions to address flooding. Mayor Keith Hobbs says they are going to recommend the development of a master storm drainage study with the initial focus on the hardest hit areas by the recent flood, such as McKellar and Northwood wards. City Manager Tim Commisso adds that they will also be recommending a review of residential drainage assistance and flood prevention programs based on what they've learned from larger centres, such as Toronto.

Power Outage In Oliver-Paipoonge

There's a small hydro outage in the Oliver-Paipoonge area. According to Hydro One a handful of customers on Veley Road are without electricity and may not get their power back until 10:30 a.m. this morning. The cause of the outage is not known.

10 Fires Burning In Region

There is good news on the forest fire front. It was another quiet weekend with no new fires to report in northwestern Ontario. The forest fire hazard remains low for all of northwestern Ontario. There are currently 10 active fires in the region. All of these fires have received substantial rain fall in the last 24hrs and are showing minimal fire behaviour. No problems are anticipated with any of these fires at this time. There have been a total of 197 fires in northwestern Ontario this year, burning a total area of just over 1400 hectares.

Police Investigate Death of A 51 Year Old Man

Ontario Provincial Police in Dryden and Treaty Three Police Service are conducting a joint investigation into the death of a man from Wabigoon Lake First Nation. The body of 51 year old Stanley Shabaquay was found Thursday morning. A post mortem examination was conducted on Friday but police have not released any further details.

45 Marijuana Plants Seized And Couple Are Charged

Provincial Police working in Atikokan have busted two people for trafficking marijuana and broken up what appears to be a grow operation. Police conducted a search on Thursday and found 45 marijuana plants and a number of marijuana related items in a home. A man and a woman were arrested and face trafficking charges. They will appear in court on July 26th.

Cats Crush Huskies

The Thunder Bay Border Cats crushed the Duluth Huskies 10-0 yesterday on the road. The Cats are now 9 and 10 on the year and finish off a 2 game series against Duluth tonight before returning home for five in a row, starting with Waterloo tomorrow at Subway field.

Chill Sweep Winnipeg

The Thunder Bay Chill are in first place in the Heartland division, thanks to a weekend sweep of Winnipeg. The Chill posted a 1-0 win yesterday to improve to 7 and 1 on the season.

Keating Jr. And Caland Combine To Win Better Ball Tourney

Walter Keating Jr. and Barry Caland shot a - 3, 69 yesterday at the Fort William Country Club to win the Mallon's Better Ball Tournament. The two paired together for the first time to win the District Golf Association tournament by two shots. Other flight winners included Murray Young and Steve Latta in the second flight and Mike Vale and Joe Adcock III won the third flight.

No new fires

It was a very quiet weekend in terms of forest fires in Northwestern Ontario. No new fires were reported this weekend, however there are still ten fires burning in the area. So far, there have been 197 fires this year in Northwestern Ontario.