More record temperatures in store for Northwestern Ontario

You can expect a mixed bag of weather for the long weekend. Environment Canada's Geoff Coulson says we could set new records for warmth for the next few days but Saturday we will see a change to cooler temperatures and rain. Coulson says the sun will come back out Sunday and will bring the temperatures back up to the double digit mark.

Vancouver police make arrest in the death of a Thunder Bay woman

Vancouver police made an arrest in the murder of a former Thunder Bay resident. 45 year old Alexander Le Grace was arrested and is charged with second degree murder in the death of 43 year old Tammy-Lynne Cordone. Cordone was originally from Thunder Bay but was living in Vancouver at the time.

Fort Frances man dies from a form of Mad Cow

A Fort Frances man has died from a disease closely related to Mad Cow disease. The Northwestern Health Unit confirmed the man died from a rare form of Creutzfeldt - Jakob's disease. Director of Health Protection Arlene Lesenski says this form of disease is NOT linked to a another form contracted by eating tainted meat from cattle. The man died last week.

New MJLB Library unveiled

The wraps are now off the drawings for the new Mary J-L Black Library. It will be located next to the West Thunder Community Centre. Chief Librarian Gina La Force says the 92 hundred square foot facility will be spread out over 1 floor instead of two at the current location. She says there will also be lots of windows to give it a bright feel. La Force says the budget for the new library is 4.1 million dollars. Tenders are expected to go out shortly with completion set for this time next year.

Molesti video hearing set for Wednesday

A 56 year old American man has a detention hearing set for Wednesday at the District Jail. 56 year old Patrick Molesti was picked up by city police last week at the request of Canada Border Services. American officials want him in connection with a plot to buy a 5 year old boy on the internet. Services spokesperson Chris Kealey says the hearing is to determine whether he should remain in jail. Kealey says Molesti will participate in via video conference with an Immigration and Refugee board adjudicator located in Toronto. Another hearing has yet to be set on when Molesti will be sent back to the States.

Cops for Cancer set to go

The 14th annual Cops for Cancer fundraiser is set for May 8th at the Intercity Mall. That's where people get their head shaved and raise money in support of the Canadian Cancer Society. Organizer Dana Levanto says they are looking for volunteers. The goal is 30 thousand dollars. Pictured: Constable Barry Ritch watching his son Jarvis get shaved by Shear Heaven stylist Rachel Parenteau with help from owner Aldo Ruberto.

Chamber prez wants more input on wage rate

The President of the Chamber of Commerce is stopping short of condemning Wednesday's minimum wage increase in the province. Harold Wilson says he'd like to see the government allow more input before setting the rate. That would include taking into account the economic issues are at any given time. He'd like to see it planned out as opposed to be dictated by the province. As of Wednesday the minimum wage in the province will be $10.25 an hour.

Online voting decision in April

The decision on internet voting could be weeks away. Friday is the deadline for companies who want to submit proposals to change the way we vote during city elections. City Clerk John Hannam says that includes a new ballot counting machine and a proposal for remote voting which could mean voting on the internet, by phone or by mail. He says those proposals will be evaluated and on April 26th he will report back to council on possible recommendations. The idea is to increase voter turnout.

Proposal for small council shot down

Councillor Larry Heberts' proposal for a smaller council is dead in the water...at least for now. Councillors voted down his idea to reduce the size of council from 12 members to 8. But Hebert says all is not lost. He says councillors suggested that the idea be brought up after the new council is elected. He says in that way a citizens committee can be formed to look how council is elected. Hebert is satisfied that he drew attention to the issue.

Arena proposal going to the public

The next stage in getting a new arena for the city takes place shortly. City councillors have given the green light for public consultation sessions on the proposal for a new multi purpose event centre. City Manager Tim Commisso says because the plan is in such an early stage this will be the best opportunity for you to express an opinion either for or against such a proposal. No dates have been set for any of the sessions.

Thunder bay Police arrest a local man in connection with last week's hit and run

A suspect has been arrested in connection with last Wednesday's Hit and Run that left one man in hospital with serious head injuries. Steven Jamie Torkkeli of Thunder Bay is charged with failing to stop at an accident, reckless driving causing bodily harm and obstructing a police officer. The 28 year old was arrested yesterday afternoon and a 2003 Ford 150 was also seized at his North Hill Street residence. A 20 year old Hamilton Soldier suffered severe head injuries in the collision and remains in hospital. The victim was in Thunder Bay visiting his girlfriend.

First Nations leader scolds city councillors

A sharp rebuke to the city from an area Aboriginal leader. Chief Wilfred King of the Gull Bay First Nation scolded council for not including the citys' Aboriginal Strategic Plan in the citys' own Strategic Plan. Chief King says the Aboriginal plan outlines many ways the city can act as a leader, partner, employer and service provider to resident First Nations. He says council can no longer marginalize First Nations by attempting to, as he puts its, force square pegs into round holes. King adds that First Nations can provide positive economic input in a variety of ways. He says natives as a people have so much more to offer than art, drums and symbolic legends. King believes that the First Nations are expected to assimilate to the norms of current business practices.

Loan forgiveness for training centre will wait

City councillors are not ready to write off a loan of 572 thousand dollars for the brand new Emergency Training Centre on Hammond Avenue.  Board Vice Chair Mary Long-Irwin made the request saying that phase two of the project, the indoor shooting range, might have a difficult time in getting funding should the request be turned down.   Councillors however decided to go with a recommendation by administration to wait for a report to be presented on the first full year of operations in February of next year.  It's hoped by that time, they can see if the facility is making money which can then be used to pay back the loan.  In a separate decision councillors voted to release 150 thousand dollars for the shooting range

Businesses object to bus terminal site

City councillors just can't seem to win when it comes to a temporary bus terminal location.  A south side business operator pleaded with councillors to change their minds on making Violet and North Streets the temporary transit terminal.    Mike McNabb of SHUFA Investment Ltd, brought with him a number of letters from area businesses and organizations that are opposed to the move as well.  McNabb doesn't see how the new location will work seeing as how the the streets are too narrow.  He says the decision was not well not thought out.   The city has been forced to find a temporary location for the Brodie Street terminal while the new courthouse is being built.

Arrest made in hit and run

Thunder Bay Police say they have arrested a man in connection with last Wednesdays' hit and run on Secord Street. They say that the suspect was taken into custody at around 5 pm Monday. In that accident a pedestrian sustained serious head injuries after being struck by a vehicle. Police say a vehicle has been recovered and will be examined by forensic experts. Further details will be released on Tuesday morning

Social workers accept contract

The workers at the North West Community Care Access Centre now have a new contract. The employees voted 80 per cent in favour of accepting a new three year deal. It will see them get a total wage increase of six per cent. There are also benefit improvements. They belong to the Canadian Auto Workers union

Police nab break in suspect

City police are hoping they have put an end to some recent vehicle break ins. It follows the arrest Monday morning of a person in the Donald Street area. Spokesperson Chris Adams says two people were spotted by a witness who called police. He says when police arrived both of them ran off but one was caught while the other remains free. Adams says police are continuing to focus on areas of the city where vehicle break ins are taking place.

Dry conditons bring about extreme fire hazard

It may only be March, but the Ministry of Natural Resources is warning about extreme fire conditions. Fire information officer Debbie MacLean says it's a serious situation in the West Fire Region.  The MNR is asking you not to burn outdoor fires.   She says even though it's cold outside the fire hazard is extreme.
MacLean says while there are no active fires burning there were several wildfires reported in the Fort Frances area

English to be taught to Chinese students in Manitouwadge

Manitouwadge is soon to be home to about 55 students from China. Confederation College has signed a deal with Canadabridge Education Inc to have Chinese students learn english in Manitouwadge. The students would then go back to Con College and study with frequent trips back to the community. Canadabridges' Morley Chertkoff is seen in the video signing the deal with Judi Maundrell, the VP of Academic at the college.

Job fair at former StarTek building

The former StarTek building will be a hub of activity over the next little while. The company On-Line Support is hosting a job fair at the building to access the climate in Thunder Bay in advance to possible moving into Thunder Bay. OLS's Kathy Follett-Lloyd says she hopes to see 500 people come through the doors. The fair will be on until Wednesday.

Thunder Bay police capture man wanted in the US

An Atlanta man, whom American reports say is wanted in connection with a plot to try to buy a 5 year old online, remains in custody in Thunder Bay. He was picked up Friday by city police at the Greyhound bus depot at the request of Canada Border Services.  Border Services spokesperson Chris Kealy says officials have been in contact with the man.  He says agency officers have interviewed the man.  He'll also be subject to a hearing to determine if he's considered criminally inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.   Police in Atlanta say 56 year old Patrick Molesti is facing charges that include sexual exploitation of a child, and criminal attempt to commit child molestation.

Thunder Bay Police kept busy this weekend

One man is in hospital with serious injuries after being attacked and robbed last night. It happened just before 7 o'clock at Odd Fellows Hall on May Street. The victim was taken to the Regional Hospital and is in serious condition. Also this weekend officers managed to seize 29 pounds of Marijuana at a bus terminal. The K-9 unit was on scene assisting in a separate investigation and discovered the drugs. A 27 year old Mississauga man was arrested and will appear in court.

Fire destroys trailer home

No one was home when a fire gutted a tailer home early Friday evening in the city's south side. The fire took place just before 6 o'clock at the Totem Trailer Park on Chippewa Road. Witnesses say that the people who live in the trailer weren't there at the time. The cause of the fire isn't known.

T-Wolves fans go crazy for the team

LU Thunderwolves hockey fans were out in full force Friday night at the Fort William Gardens. They were cheering on the T-Wolves as they took on UQTR at the Cavendish Cup. LU won 7-2.

Smaller City Council proposed

Larry Hebert is at it again. The City Councillor wants to have the size of council reduced. Hebert would like to see the number of members trimmed from 12 to 8. He was already voted down once before when he proposed having all councillors elected at large. He believes having a smaller council would help keep costs under control noting that other similar sized cities have fewer councillors. Herbert wants his proposal put on the ballot in this falls municipal election.

Aboriginal Liaison presents annual report

City Councillors get the lowdown Monday from the Aboriginal Liaison. Anna Gibbon presents her annual report highlighting achievements in 2009. Gibbons says what she's most proud of is the difference the position is making in relations between the city and the Aboriginal community. She says there's a really strong feeling of good faith among all of the parties and amazing partnerships are taking place that have never happened before. Also Monday, Councillors get to debate Joe Virdiramo's proposal for a Youth Centre and Crisis Bed facility.

Online voting up for discussion at City Hall

The possibility of online voting in the upcoming municipal election gets a look at city hall Monday night. It's one of the ideas being floated by administration to help increase voter turnout. While Councillor Iain Angus says he welcomes breaking down voting barriers, he still has questions. Also Monday councillors will be asked to consider putting a question on the ballot to reduce the size of City Council and the Aboriginal Liaison will present her annual report to council

Several occupants escape south side blaze

There is no cause to report following a house fire on the city's south side Friday afternoon. During the lunch hour a blaze ripped through the single storey home at Ironwood Avenue and North Edward Street. Fire Service Platoon Chief Manfred Rohr says several people escaped injury.  He says at least one of them was a young child.  Rohr says the fire may have originated in a bedroom. Damage is extensive.

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 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.

Marathon OPP officers seize almost ten thousand dollars worth of Marijuana

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.

Cavendish Cup hits the ice

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.

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 for 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.

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.

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.

The first ship of the year docks in Thunder Bay

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.

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.

Matawa First Nation holding Economic 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 a 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 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 Raising the Rent for 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 the 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 a 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.

Versa Care Thunder Bay has 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Canadian 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.

New arena project could be on this year's muncipal election ballot

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 lose in 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.

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 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 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 is 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.