LHIN rolls out funds

The Northwest LHIN is rolling out a number of new programs for residents living with brain injuries.  715-thousand dollars is being used to offer a variety of programs across the region.  A family therapist will work with families in the region, while program facilitators will be posted in Dryden, Fort Frances and here in Thunder Bay.

Shannon set to receive Order of Ontario

Thunder Bay's Dave Shannon is about to receive the province's highest civilian honour. On Thursday Shannon will be given the Order of Ontario for his work with the disabled. The local lawyer and quadriplegic says he wants to share the recognition with others he's come in contact with who have worked with him for human rights. Shannon calls the experience humbling and gratifying.

Standing Committee on Finance in T. BAY

It's a full day of speakers Wednesday at the Provincial Government's Pre-Budget Consultations.  The Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs is in town to speak to a variety of stakeholders.  NOMA will be addressing the panel.  Other speakers include the Chamber of Commerce, Confederation College, and Poverty Free Thunder Bay.

Former chief lays down the law

There's tough talk from the new Ring of Fire Cooridinator for the Matawa First Nations. Raymond Ferris says he's going to make sure that corporations play by the rules and give his people the maximum benefits of any mining discoveries in the area. Ferris says he expects the government to pick up the tab.  Ferris is known within the First Nations communities as an expert on land and resources issues and is the former chief of the Constance Lake First

Pope John Paul going solar

Thunder Bay's Catholic Schools are going green.  The school board is installing solar panels at three of its schools which will save them 70 thousand dollars a year in energy costs.  Superintendent of Business Tom Mustapic says Pope John Paul will have the panels installed in April.  The system will provide electricity for the buildings, and preheat air coming into the schools heating system.

Gas Leak resolved

Union Gas has fixed a gas leak at the former Triple Nickel bar site.  A front end loader hit a gas pipe while during excavation work this morning.  That leak cause parts of Miles and Simpson Street to be closed for a short period of time.

ORC to become a memory

The Ontario Realty Corporation is in for a change.  The McGuinty government is merging it with another agency. MPP Michael Gravelle says he doesn't know exactly how the merger will affect the Corporation's Thunder Bay office but expects any savings to come from administrative costs and not at the expense of front line staff.

Extra Flu Shot Clinic this Monday

Flu season is upon us, and it seems there's a rush to get immunized.  The Health Unit has been overwhelmed with requests for shots at it's weekly Wednesday clinic.  An appointment only clinic has been scheduled for Monday to alleviate the congestion.

Input sought on housing strategy

A second round of public input sessions on a proposed housing strategy start today. Iain Angus is the Chair of the Social Services Board and says they want to make sure they meet the public's needs. To comment on the draft plan log onto the Social Services Board website.