Hillier weighs in on provincial budget

The Progressive Conservative Critic for Northern Affairs says the Provincial Budget is 300-pages of nothing for Northern Ontario.  Randy Hillier says there's no mention of anything of importance including help for the forestry sector.  Hillier points out the only announcement was one that was already made; 10-million dollars extra for the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund.

Thunder Bay MPP's defend budget

Thunder Bay's MPPs are touting the 10 million dollar increase to the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund.  The cash boost was included in Tuesday's provincial budget.  Thunder Bay Atikokan MPP Bill Mauro says it's good news for the region.  The money for the NOHFC was originally announced several years ago.  Mauro feels the province wide announcements for health care and education will also benefit the Northwest.  Meanwhile, Minister of Northern Development Michael Gravelle is standing by his government's provincial budget.  Gravelle says there wasn't specific money set aside for the region but there was projects that were mentioned such as the Ring of Fire and the expansion of Highway 11/17.

Thunder Bay man wins $50 thousand

Thunder Bay's Jeffrey Russel won 50 thousand dollars on an instant win lottery game.  Russel plans to use his prize to pay off some debt.  The winning ticket was purchased at The Winners Circle on Victoria Avenue in Thunder Bay.

Hampton on provincial budget

The NDP feel the provincial budget leaves Northern Families in the dust.  Kenora Rainy River MPP Howard Hampton says not even a political compass can get the McGuinty government headed in the right direction.  Hampton says the Liberals cut funding for important ministries like Natural Resources, Aboriginal Affairs and Municipal Affairs and Housing.

Young woman disarms companion

An 18 year old girl is a hero to a couple of city police officers. It comes after she grabbed a knife from her 18 year old guy friend who flashed it in front of the officers. Police spokesperson Chris Adams admits the girl did risk injury to herself and such action isn't recommended.   The incident took place at May and Leith Street's Monday afternoon

Transit Service seeks input

You can have your two cents heard Wednesday night at a public meeting put on by the City of Thunder Bay.  The City is collecting input on the services provided by Thunder Bay and HAGI transit services.  The first meeting is from six until 8 Wednesday in City Hall's lobby.

Jimi's owners back in court next month

The fate of "Jimi the dog"  remains up in the air.   His owners are facing charges after "Gus the Chihuahua" died at a city owned dog park last year.   Defence lawyer Francis Thatcher says a confidential pre-trial hearing was held this morning.  The case will be heard again in Provincial Offences Court on April 27th at which time a trial date will be set or it could be settled.   

Police Chief releases statement

The Chief of Police isn't being drawn into a war of words with the Mayor. Chief Bob Herman released a statement today saying it would be inappropriate to comment on an ongoing investigation. Herman also said in the statement that he is taking the necessary actions to maintain his integrity and that of the office of the Chief of Police. Herman declined an interview. Herman has filed a formal complaint against Hobbs with the Civilian Police Commission in regards to his conduct at the Police Services Board meetings.