Overnight Fire

There were no injuries following a two-alarm fire at a home in the 200 block of Rowand Street on the south side.  Fire crews were called to the scene around one o'clock this morning and over 20 firefighters battled the blaze for nearly four hours.  Five pumpers and an aerial platform also managed to keep nearby homes safe from the flames.  No one was in the home at the time and fire officials say it appears the house may have been vacant.

Chiarelli Says T.Bay Plant Has Potential

Energy Minister Bob Chiarelli is reiterating the message that Thunder Bay and the region will have enough electricity through the local power plant. Chiarelli held a teleconference for media Wednesday and said it's possible that the local plant will operate at full capacity. Chiarelli disagrees with statements from the Common Voice Northwest group that says we won't have enough electricity with the current planned conversion of the local power plant.

Chief Will Ask For Answers From CN

Fort William First Nation Chief Georjann Morriseau meets with officials of CN Rail today on the future of the James Street bridge.  Morriseau will be demanding a timeline on when the fire damaged bridge will reopen to pedestrian and vehicle traffic and says she'll reiterate the inconvenience of having the bridge closed.  Morriseau says if the closure is extended she has to make arrangements for transit and emergency services for her community.  The meeting takes place this afternoon on the First Nation.

LU Hosting Mining Conference

Lakehead University is hosting a mining conference over the next two days. Organizer Pete Hollings says officials have high hopes for the gathering.
The conference kicks off this morning with a speech from First Nations Ring of Fire negotiator Bob Rae. Hollings says topics include learning from past mining projects, looking to the future, and exploring current projects on the go.

Foundation To Dole Out Grants

Forty local charities are getting an early holiday gift from the Thunder Bay Community Foundation tonight.  The foundation is handing out a quarter million dollars in grants to those organizations.  The amount of the grants range from 600 to 25 thousand dollars.  The cheques will be given out starting at 6 o'clock at Wayne Toyota at Balmoral and Central.

Chiarelli Promotes Plan

Energy Minister Bob Chiarelli is busy promoting the government's Long Term Energy Plan and deflecting criticism over the high cost of electricity in the North. In a media teleconference, Chiarelli deflected a question asking if the Province would entertain a seperate electricity rate for Northerners since generating electricity in the region is done fairly cheaply. Chiarelli said no that there will continue to be only one rate for the whole of the province. We face a 33 percent hike in our electricity rates over the next three years according to the new plan. Other issues discussed included the local power plant which Chiarelli feels will provide the region's electricity needs.

Charges Laid In Ambrose St. Fire

Thunder Bay's Fire Service is fining an Ambrose Street property owner for failing to maintain smoke alarms. The total cost of the three tickets is over 700 dollars. Spokesperson Anthony Stokaluk says the home's occupant was hurt in last week's fire. The Fire Service is again stressing the importance of having working smoke alarms on each floor of a residence.

First Nations Education Act Rally

A rally was held at the Fort William First Nation today against the Federal Governments proposed First Nations Education Act. Nishnawbe Aski Nation Deputy Grand Chief Goyce Kakegamic says he hopes that today's protest will show the government that their proposed act is opposed by all members in the community and not just elders. Kakegamic adds that one of the main areas of concern is a lack of attention given to preschool and post-secondary education. Rallies were also held in Toronto, Ottawa and Sudbury.

Home Care Workers Could Strike

Personal Support Workers with Red Cross Home Care could be soon be carrying pickets.  Members of the Service Employees International Union, including 21 in Thunder Bay, rejected a tentative contract on the weekend. Union president Sharleen Stewart says they are in a legal strike position to back demands.  Stewart says a desire for better wages and benefits are at the heart of the dispute for workers now earning 15-dollars an hour.

Numerous Camp Break In & Thefts

Members of the OPP are warning area camp owners about numerous break, enter and thefts that occurred to cottages located on Max Lake, Decourcey Lake and others in the Boreal Road area. All of the incidents occurred sometime during the week of November 24 to November 30th. Some of the items reported stolen include, firearms, generators, chainsaws, and alcohol.

Angus Pans Plan

The Co-chair of the Northwest Energy Task Force is putting some reality to the long term energy plan.  Ian Angus says although the cost wont be as high as initially projected, it's still not going to be cheap.  Angus also disagrees with plans to conserve energy in the Northwest.  Something he says will have little impact once the proposed mines for the region begin operation.

Snowfall Warning Still In Effect

The Thunder Bay area is bracing for its first major snowfall of the season. A large low pressure system from Colorado is tracking northeast and Meteorologist Dayshanelle Matthews with Environment Canada says snowfall amounts will be significant. Calendar parking also takes effect throughout the City today.

Chiefs Support 60s Scoop Lawsuit

A landmark lawsuit against the Federal Government is taking place today. A hearing is scheduled for today and will see Beaver House Chief Marcia Brown Martel take on Canada over the system in the 1960s that saw First Nation children apprehended by the government and placed with non-first nation families. The Chiefs of Ontario are supporting the lawsuit calling the government's actions cultural genocide.

New Canadian Citizens Sworn In

Over thirty people in Thunder Bay and northwestern Ontario are now Canadian citizens. They took the oath this morning at a special ceremony at Confederation College. Long time Thunder Bay resident Heli Putkuri says she decided to apply for her citizenship because she thought it was time. The 32 new Canadians originally hailed from over 18 different countries.

No Change At The Public School Board

It's status quo at the Lakehead District School Board with trustee Deborah Massaro being acclaimed for a seventh consecutive term as Board Chair.  Trustee Karen Wilson was also acclaimed for a fifth term as Vice Chair.

Kettle Campaign Suffering

The Salvation Army is saying a lack of volunteers is the reason its Christmas kettle fundraiser in Thunder Bay is running behind this year.  Major Rob Kerr says they haven't been able to find enough people who want to staff the kettles.  Kerr says they are down about 13 thousand dollars from the same time last year.

White Cedar Clinic Gets New Deal

The First Nation White Cedar Health Care Centre is teaming up with the Ontario Addiction Treatment Centres.  The two will offer services out of the Thunder Bay South Clinic starting in January 2014.  According to the two agencies the new agreement will enhance the current model of service and care for clients.

Company Fined

D & L Estates Limited is being forced to pay 25-thousand dollars after being sentenced in Ontario Provincial Court in Thunder Bay for an offence under the Environmental Protection Act. The offence involving PCBs took place at the former NORAD radar station in Armstrong, Ontario near the North Shore of Lake Nipigon. The company has since removed all of the PCB contaminated equipment from the property and had the PCBs destroyed.

Snowfall Warning In Effect

A snowfall warning is in effect for the city of Thunder Bay.  Environment Canada says we are in the path of a Colorado Low.  Snow is expected to start falling tonight and that could result in 5 to 10 centimetres.  The forecast says an additional 10 centimetres could fall tomorrow during the day and another 10 at night.

Reform Act Introduced

Thunder Bay MP Bruce Hyer is fully supporting Conservative MP Michael Chong's proposed Reform Act. The Private Member's bill aims to restore the power for candidate nomination to a party’s electoral district association, rather than leaving it up to the party leader. Speaking in Question Period,   Hyer said he wants a free vote on the proposed legislation.

Pot Seized Near Kenora

A B.C. man has been charged after he was caught transporting more than his scheduled load on Highway 17 west of Kenora. Provincial Police stopped an eastbound tractor trailer for a traffic violation Monday afternoon. Officers found 180-pounds of marihuana in the vehicle, worth an estimated 450-thousand dollars. Police seized the transport truck and 1-thousand dollars cash as part of the investigation. The 43-year-old Mission residents faces three charges and he remains in custody.

Murray Defends Highway Safety Record

In spite of a recent string of  traffic fatalities and highway closures in the north, the province's transportation minister is saying our roads are safe. In the legislature, Glen Murray touted Ontario's highway safety record.   He says we have fewer fatalities and accidents along with the safest roads in all of North America, better than in dryer and warmer places like Kansas and California.  Murray says his ministry will be monitoring how the new MTO crews are deployed and how well they're performing.

Calendar Parking Back On

Calendar Parking rules are coming into effect as of Wednesday.   The city says with the latest snowfall, it means that parking will be restricted to certain sides of the street depending on the calendar date.   Signs are posted on the streets which fall under the by-law.   Unless the city lifts it earlier,  Calendar Parking will remain in effect until the end of March.

Women In Politics Launched

Women politicians from across Northwestern Ontario are rallying to support future female leaders.  The new organization "Women In Politics" is holding a special forum on January 22nd to promote women getting involved in all levels of government.  Shuniah Councillor Wendy Landry says some women might find the process of running foreign. The forum will welcome former Ontario Liberal Party Leader Lyn McLeod as the guest speaker.

"Road Rage" In NWO

Residents in the Vermillion Bay area west of Dryden say they aren't going to take it anymore. A rally is scheduled for Saturday to protest the condition of area roads. Ear Falls resident Steve Smith is leading the charge and hopes to get as many people from the region to the rally.   Smith has also set up a Facebook page to help increase support for the cause.

Sudden Death In Machin

The death of a Machin man is being investigated by Provincial Police. OPP were contacted Monday afternoon around 4:50 after a body was found off Heilman Road. Police say the body was found in a remote location. The deceased has been identified as 44-year-old Randal Lichty of Machin. A post mortem examination is being held in Kenora and anyone with information on this case is asked to contact OPP.

UN Flag Raised At City Hall

The United Nations flag is flying at City Hall today. It's to commemorate the United Nations International Day of Persons with disabilities.  City Hall raised the UN flag at a ceremony this morning.  It also recognizes work being done by the municipal accessibility advisory committee .  There are several information displays posted through the day focusing on the multi year accessibility plans as well as the city's emergency preparedness plan.

Two Dead In Highway 11 Crash

The cause of a fatal two vehicle collision  in northwestern Ontario is under investigation. An elderly couple died when their westbound Chrysler struck an eastbound transport about 15 kilometres east of Fort Frances yesterday afternoon on Highway 11. The driver of the tractor-trailer unit wasn't injured. The driver of the car has been identified as 82-year-old David Chambers and the passenger has been identified as 75-year-old Louise Chambers, both of Fort Frances.

Hospital Foundation Needs $

The never ending job of raising money for hospital equipment is continuing this holiday season.   Glenn Craig, the chair of the Regional Health Science's Centre Foundation ,  says that they have set an ambitious objective this year for the Exceptional Care Campaign of 100 thousand dollars   Craig says the money will be used to buy chemotherapy equipment.

Hupka Back As Board Chair

Bob Hupka

Trustees with the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board don't appear to like change. Bob Hupka has been re-elected as the board chair.  Hupka is no stranger to the position, he as been at the helm for the last 7 years.   The board has also returned Tony Romeo as vice-chair.

All Schools Open

Despite the overnight snowfall, all area schools are open and all school buses are running this morning as scheduled.  Student Transportation Services of Thunder Bay says there could be some bus delays due to road conditions.  

Council Round Up

The City is spending almost a million dollars to purchase defibrillators.  The expenditure is to replace the existing medical machines for both the Superior North EMS and Fire and Rescue Service.  The existing defibrillators have reached the end of their use.  Meanwhile, The social services board is providing 70-thousand dollars to two child care facilities in the City.  50-thousand dollars will go towards the Algoma Child Care Centre to provide a review of their facility.  Grace Remus will use 20-thousand dollars towards upgrading a special needs room.  An update on the projects were provided to City Council last night.

Riverview Drive Stays The Same

City Council is going to keep the status quo when it comes to Riverview Drive.  Some residents had concerns about the speed of cars driving down the neighbourhood road.  Staff recommended to Council they don't implement any traffic calming measures since residents who took a poll suggested they didn't want change.

Council Puts Off Water Vote

City Council isn't making a decision anytime soon on delivering well water to rural homes.  They asked staff to look into other municipalities best practices and the liability of offering the service.  Councillor Trevor Giertuga is against discontinuing the service saying it's not fair to the rural homeowners. Council Chambers were packed Monday night with residents speaking out against the decision.

Church Donations Stolen

City Police are investigating a theft from St. Paul's Anglican Church.  Someone broke into the church early Monday morning and stole a safe full of money set aside for Christmas Cheer. Archdeacon Deborah Kraft says it breaks her heart to think someone would steal from the needy. Kraft says they've notified police and are hopeful they will be able to apprehend the person or people responsible.

Break Ins Reported At Max Lake

Constable Diana Cole

The OPP are looking into a series of break-ins at camps on Max Lake north of Thunder Bay.  Constable Diana Cole says that the incidents took place sometime between November 24th and the 30th to about 17 cottages, with more reports coming.  Cole says some of the items stolen included generators, chainsaws, outboard motors and fishing equipment.

Roadside Sleeper Charged

Thunder Bay OPP are charging a 66 year old man with a drinking and driving related offence after police spotted a vehicle parked at the end of a merge lane on Highway 11/17 on Friday. An officer attempted to get the driver's attention who appeared to be sleeping.  Once the man woke up officers smelled alcohol on his breath and found him to be over the legal driving limit. He'll appear in court on January 7th.

First Nation Company Likes Ontario Energy Plan

A First Nation power company is putting its support behind the Provincial Government's long term energy plan.  The Ontario power plan commits to connected remote First Nation communities currently serviced by diesel generation.  The First Nations-led company looks forward to working with the provincial government to connect the communities to a transmission power line.

OPP Report Several Incidents In Terrace Bay Area

Terrace Bay OPP are charging a 35 year old man with assault and theft under five thousand dollars after an incident Friday. Police responded to a call of an assault at a business in which a man sustained injuries after being struck by another man. He made a court appearance in Thunder Bay Monday. Meanwhile, Schreiber OPP are currently investigating reports of break and enters that happened two weeks ago in Strey Township, west of Terrace Bay. Someone forced their way into buildings and homes causing property damage. Numerous items were stolen.

RFDA To Feed Seniors & Singles

The Regional Food Distribution Association will be feeding less fortunate seniors and single people this holiday season.  It comes after the Christmas Cheer Fund announced they would only be giving hampers out to families with children.  RFDA Board Member Larry Brigham says these are people who already depend on area food banks.  Those in need can apply for a Christmas package on Wednesday by calling 211.

Richardson Seeks South Side NDP Nod

The executive director the North Superior Workforce Planning Board is stepping into politics.   Madge Richardson says she is seeking the nomination for the NDP in Thunder Bay-Atikokan.   She says the riding needs a strong voice in the legislature to make sure we have the resources to maintain and improve our economy.

Local To Receive G.G.'s Bravery Medal

A Thunder Bay man is being honoured for his heroic efforts this week by the Governor General.  Alex Myros and two southern Ontario men, are receiving the Medal of Bravery in Ottawa on Thursday.  It's for risking their lives to rescue two people from a burning vehicle near Angola, Indiana in June of 2009.

Community Foundation Partners With Dilico

The Thunder Bay Community Foundation is breaking new ground.   Executive Director Bonnie Moore says they are making the Dilico Children’s Foundation eligible for the Community Foundation's support through an endowment fund.   She calls it an historic announcement since only about two other foundations in the country have partnerships with First Nations. Moore says the Community Foundation will match the fund dollar for dollar up to 50 thousand dollars.

Victim Won't Have To Pay Rescue Costs

The victim of a weekend rescue on Mount McKay will not have to pay  for his misadventure.  The 24 year old man was attempting to parachute down when something went wrong and he became stranded.   Chief John Hay says the costs of the rescue are minimal and will not be charged back to the victim. He says it's not something the fire service normally does and in this case the extra costs were minimal, amounting overtime for some off duty technicians.  Saturday evening's rescue lasted for about 8 hours.

Wild Police Chase

A 26-year old man is in custody after a wild chase on the City's north side.  Shortly before 10 o'clock last night Police attempted a traffic stop, but the car driven by the man, took off and eventually collided with another vehicle at the corner of Cumberland and Wolseley Streets.  The suspect then fled on foot before officers eventually captured him hiding under the deck of a home on St. James Street.  The male was found to be in possession of several weapons including two knives, brass knuckles and a taser, plus a large amount of cash.  The suspect had eight outstanding warrants and now faces an additional 10 charges including dangerous driving, fleeing from police and assault of police.  He'll answers to those charges in court today. The driver of the other vehicle involved in the collision was not injured.  

East West Tie Meeting Tonight

NextBridge Infrastructure's proposed East West Tie Transmission line is going to be the subject of a series of public consultation meetings in the region this week.  Tonight, officials will be speaking to area residents at the Current River Community Centre.  Meetings on the electricity grid project will also be held in Nipigon, Marathon, White River and Terrrace Bay.

Open Government Meeting Tonight

The term "open government" may seem like a contradiction in terms to some, but the province's government services minister wants to change that. John Milloy says his open government team is stopping in Thunder Bay this evening to get your views on what can be done to make the government more open. A forum is taking place at the Valhalla Inn this evening from 6 until 9 o'clock

City Council Preview

City Council is discussing putting speed bumps, curb extensions or speed radar signs on Riverview Drive to slow down traffic.
Mayor Keith Hobbs says it's a good idea. A staff report suggests the City keep the status quo with the street as a poll of area residents supported making no changes. Meanwhile, City staff are asking council to stop delivering well water to rural areas of the City. Councillor Ken Boshcoff expects lively discussion around the suggestion. If the city decides to do away with the service residents will be notified in the New Year.

CO Detectors Mandatory In All Homes

Thunder Bay Fire Chief John Hay is supporting new legislation making CO detectors mandatory in homes. Homeowners won't face a fine from the city's fire services if they do not have one but Hay wants people to know just how important they are as early detection devices. More legislation similar to this is expected to be passed in the new year.

Movember Wrap Up

Movember officially wrapped up this past weekend. Local Campaign Chair Jon Hendel says its an event that grows in popularity every year with this years fundraising total reaching nearly seven-thousand dollars locally. On a national level Canada continues to lead the charge raising roughly twenty-seven million dollars.

Man Rescued From Mount McKay

A 24 year old man is recovering in the Health Sciences Centre  after being rescued from the side of Mount McKay Saturday evening.    Fire officials say the high angle rescue began just before 6 o'clock and took about 8 hours to complete .    They say that earlier the man had been attempting a jump with a parachute type device called a speed wing when it failed to deploy and he became stranded.   Rescuers had to rappel down in dark and icy conditions, but did reach the victim and he was carried down in a basket stretcher, conscious the whole time.  The man is said to have sustained multiple injuries but his immediate condition is not known.