Big Storm is year's top story

An annual poll of local media left no doubts that the top news story of 2006 was the big July 17th storm.

The storm that blew through the area on July 17th, garnered 70 total points including 10 of 17 first place votes.

Following the storm in second place was the conclusion of a 50-year-old cold case with the discovery of Allan and Margaret Campbell’s skeletal remains. The couple went missing in May 1956. The remains, along with a boat and motor matching that of the Campbell’s, were found in Trout Lake in October.

The ongoing budget dispute between City Council and the Health Unit, came in 3rd with 24 points.

Popular North Bay teacher, Derek Burke, took 4th spot, with a total of 19 points, for being charged then pleading guilty to Internet luring.

The case of city police officer, Sean Burns, being found guilty on extortion and criminal harassment charges and the case of 2 Toronto men going missing on Lake Nipissing in August, (1 body was recovered) tied for 5th place as each story received 14 points.

Here's a complete list followed by total points:

1. July’s BIG storm (70 points – 10 of 17 1st place votes)

2. Campbell Missing person case (remains and a boat found in Trout Lake) (45 points)

3. Council vs. Health Unit (24 points)

4. NB teacher Derek Burke charged, pleads guilty to Internet luring (19 points)

5. 2 Toronto men go missing on Lake Nipissing; 1 body found (14 points)

6. Sean Burns found guilty of extortion and harassment (14 points)

7. Year of Radio celebrations in March (11 points)

8. New NB hospital. project delays, then goes to tender, still awaiting winning bid (10 pts)

9. Locals put in bid to buy OHL’s Mississauga Ice Dogs (10 points)

10. Heritage Festival makes $47,000, council to decide future of event in new year (7 points)

11. Municipal Election (6 points)

12. John “Country” Size retires (6 points)

13. MP Anthony Rota wins re-election, defeats Peter Chirico (4 points)

14. Record breaking annual snowfall and precipitation (4 points)

15. Gas prices (3 points)

16. NORAD above ground complex officially opened (3 points)

17. Matt Marquardt drafted by CBJ, wins QMJHL championship, scores Mem. Cup semi game-winner (3 points)

18. Smitherman shaved/Mattawa hospital announced (1 point)

19. Former NHL’er/Centennial Darren Turcotte becomes coach of the Skyhawks (1 point)

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Special thanks to Richard Coffin News Director at Rogers Radio for organising the poll.