Local News

THUNDER BAY -- A familiar face is returning as chair of the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board. Bob Hupka was re-elected by his fellow trustees Monday night.

THUNDER BAY -- When it comes to murder, Thunder Bay bucked the national trend – at least for one year. According to figures released by Statistics Canada, the Lakehead murder rate dropped by 20 per cent in 2011, from five to four.

The lawyer representing one of two potential multimillion class-action lawsuits being levelled at the city said he can’t believe a $1.4-million fix was all that was needed to prevent flooding at the Atlantic Avenue Sewage Treatment Plant.

The city is sticking with its plan to build a $1.5-million Westfort fire hall to replace the aging Brown Street station.

A local weather specialist says Environment Canada failed to send out rainfall warnings until after most of the heaviest rains had fallen on May 28, flooding the city’s Atlantic Avenue Water Pollution Control Plant and much of the city.

THUNDER BAY -- The man charged in a fatal hit-and-run crash in October 2011 was released from custody Monday. Ashley Rheal Shabogomik was released on recognizance in surety of $500 at the provincial courthouse Monday afternoon.

THUNDER BAY -- Residents at McKellar Place are breathing a sigh of relief.

The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train has hit the rails again and will be visiting more than 150 communities across this region. Each event features a boxcar stage, a lineup of great musical talent and a contribution to the local food bank.

THUNDER BAY -- A small local organization has made it through to the semi-final round in a national competition to secure start-up money. Now they're asking residents for their support to help Kitty Kare qualify for the finals.

It will cost the city $1.45 million to upgrade the Atlantic Avenue sewage treatment plant, according to recommendations made by an outside consultant.