ISSUE #106

Good morning,

Welcome to another week. I hope you stayed indoors and protected your lungs from the smoke yesterday!

In today’s issue, we cover:

• Artistic Director finalists 🎶

• Daily Poll - Do you go to the symphony?

• Greenstone water changes 💧 

• 50 years of Italy 🇮🇹

• Off-road triathlon returns 🥇 

• Podcast tackles homelessness 🎙️

• Wake The Gian goes digital

• Things to do this week 🗓️

• House of the day - Custom north-side home! 🏡

- Marcus Luft

Culture

TBSO Announces Nine Finalists for Artistic Director

The Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra is down to nine finalists for its next Artistic Director, following an extensive selection process that began back in March.

After a public call for applications, initial reviews and virtual interviews in May–June, the field has been narrowed from a large international pool to a final shortlist by the board and search committee.

These finalists will soon be invited to conduct full Masterworks concerts in Thunder Bay and participate in community engagement events starting October 2025. The full audition phase will wrap up in spring 2027, with the new Artistic Director announced in June 2027.

This multi-year process aims to ensure the chosen leader aligns with TBSO’s artistic vision and community values. For symphony lovers in the region, it means a chance to hear prospective directors in action and have input before the new era begins.

Stay tuned for upcoming concert dates featuring the finalists!

Daily Poll

Today’s question is:

Monday’s Results:

You can download the full results (including comments) here in an Excel file (email addresses have been removed for anonymity).

Infrastructure

Changes On Tap for Greenstone Water Billing & Metering

Residents in the Municipality of Greenstone should expect changes soon in how they’re billed for water and sewer services. Council has endorsed a plan to reduce the number of individual water meters and shift billing from quarterly to monthly cycles.

This move is intended to streamline administration and balance usage across user groups, though it also includes a modest increase in commercial metered rates—now set at $4.18 per cubic metre, with a minimum quarterly charge equal to a residential flat rate.

Homeowners without meters will continue paying flat rates, but monthly billing aims to help users better manage consumption and detect leaks early.

Public feedback is being sought ahead of full implementation later this year. For Greenstone folks, that could mean tighter control over usage—and bills—starting with next quarter’s invoices.

Community

Da Vinci Centre Celebrates 50th Anniversary at East End Festival

The Da Vinci Centre in Fort William’s is celebrating a major milestone—50 years of community and culture—from July 11 to 13.

The celebrations kicked off with a well-attended dinner featuring an illusionist, followed by a weekend lineup packed with family-friendly events. The centre’s Ladies Auxiliary ran a popular elephant ears booth, while kids enjoyed face painting, crafts, bounce castles, games and more. Live stage performances and a food & beer tent rounded out the festivities.

Nicky Shaw reported that the centre, rooted in Italian-Canadian heritage since the early 1900s, has grown well beyond its origins.

Dominic Falcetta, association president, noted it as a “special year” on top of the annual festival, emphasizing both nostalgia and community pride. Whether you’re Italian or not, it’s a weekend of fun, culture, and local flavor—exactly what makes Thunder Bay unique.

Athletics

Off‑Road Triathlon Returns This Summer

Thunder Bay’s rugged XTERRA Sleeping Giant Triathlon is rolling back into Boulevard Lake and Trowbridge Trails from August 7 to 10—putting the region’s terrain and athletes to the test.

A four-day off-road spectacle, the event offers a variety of races—from beginner-friendly sprint and super-sprint formats to the full-distance challenge, including mountain biking, trail running, and open-water swimming. It’s part of the global XTERRA network, and one of just two off-road events in Ontario.

Local board member Brent Maranzan said its unique combination of trails, water, and elevation changes makes it a rare find.

For fitness fans, it’s also a chance to earn qualifying spots for XTERRA World Championships. Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or out for fun on the trails, this event is gearing up to showcase the best of Thunder Bay’s outdoors.

Media

“Navigating New Narratives” Podcast Debuts to Tackle Homelessness & Addiction

Thunder Bay residents Chyenne Panetta and Raynell Casey have launched a new podcast, “Navigating New Narratives,” aiming to dismantle stigma around homelessness, addiction, trauma and mental health—especially here in Thunder Bay.

Inspired by Panetta’s social advocacy and academic interests (she’s studying addiction stigma at Brock University), the podcast features a mix of lived-experience stories, expert insights, and local voices.

The goal is to reshape how the community thinks about vulnerable populations—going beyond stereotypes to highlight systemic issues and personal journeys. Although not limited to Thunder Bay, many episodes will center on our city’s challenges and triumphs.

The hosts believe this platform can spark empathy, debunk myths, and bridge conversations between policymakers, service providers, and those directly affected. If you’re interested in honest, uplifting dialogue—or just curious—this podcast drops in July and promises to change the conversation for the better.

Indigenous News

Wake the Giant Cultural Training Goes Digital

Wake the Giant, Thunder Bay’s Indigenous cultural inclusion initiative, just launched its much-anticipated self-guided training as a mobile app and online platform.

Co-founder Sean Spenrath explained that the gamified, interactive course is now available to individuals, businesses, and organizations across Canada. Developed in partnership with Culture Foundry Studios (known for Ojibwe language learning), the digital rollout includes modules on Indigenous culture, histories, and the effects of colonization—designed to be both educational and accessible.

Earlier in-person versions had already been adopted by local hospitals and institutions, but the app broadens the reach significantly. And, bonus: those who complete it before September get a 10 % discounted ticket to the Wake the Giant music festival.

This move not only deepens cultural understanding, but also empowers any organization or individual to take concrete steps toward reconciliation—right from their phone.

Things to do This Week

Events In and Around the City

July 14

Community Living Duck Hunt
City-wide scavenger hunt—find decorative ducks around Thunder Bay and share a photo!
Various locations (city-wide)
All day
$ FREE

Committee of the Whole / City Council Meeting
Public meeting of municipal council
City Hall – 500 Donald Street East (3rd Floor)
6:30 pm–11:00 pm
$ FREE (public attendance)

Waverley Park Concert Series
Free weekly summer concert in the park
Waverley Park – Waverley Street
6:30 pm–9:00 pm
$ FREE

Sea Shanty Night
Sing-along sea shanties with live band (19+)
The Foundry – 242 Red River Road
8:30 pm
$ FREE

Discovery Club
STEAM drop-in activities for kids (age 4+)
Mary J.L. Black Library – 285 Red River Road
All day
$ FREE

Construction World
Construction-themed storytime & mini excavator demo
Waverley Library – 285 Red River Road
10:00 am–11:00 am
$ FREE

Baby and Me Storytime
Songs, fingerplays & playtime for infants (0–12 mo)
County Park Library – 435 Northern Avenue
11:15 am–11:45 am
$ FREE

Paint Party!
Front-window painting & chalk art for all ages
Mary J.L. Black Library – 901 Edward St S
2:30 pm–3:30 pm
$ FREE

July 15

Jazzy Tuesdays With Mood Indigo
Smooth live jazz evenings paired with dinner and drinks
Anchor & Ore – 2240 Sleeping Giant Parkway
6:00 pm–9:00 pm
$ FREE

Tuesday Group Run
Community 5 km run/walk around Boulevard Lake
Meet at Rita Street parking lot, Lyon Boulevard W.
6:30 pm–7:30 pm
$ FREE

Tai Chi in the Park
Gentle, public tai chi practice by the water
Marina Park – Water Street
7:00 pm–8:00 pm
$ FREE

Dave Jonasson Live Music at The Social
Stylish singer-songwriter performance with acoustic vibe
The Social – 340 Red River Road
7:00 pm–9:00 pm
$ FREE

July 16

PIEROGI DAYS
Weekly Polish pierogi festival—homemade fillings and more
Polish Combatants’ Association – 209 N Cumberland Street
9:00 am–4:30 pm
$ FREE

The Muskeg Express at Centennial Park
Miniature scenic train rides through Centennial Park
Centennial Park – Centennial Park Road
11:00 am–4:00 pm (last ride ~3:50 pm)
$ FREE entry; rides ticketed separately

Chippewa Park Amusement Rides & Concessions
Amusement rides, beach, carousel & concessions
Chippewa Park – 1735 City Road
1:00 pm–8:00 pm
$ FREE entry; rides individually priced

Rock Painting at Toy Sense!
Creative rock painting for kids (adult supervision required)
Toy Sense – 447 May Street North
1:00 pm–3:00 pm
$ FREE

Thunder Bay Country Market
Local vendors offering produce, baked goods & crafts
Dove Building, Canadian Lakehead Exhibition – 126  Memorial Avenue
3:30 pm–6:30 pm
$ FREE

Live on the Waterfront Concert Series
Weekly live music at Marina Park—bring blankets and chairs
Marina Park – Water Street
6:00 pm–9:00 pm
$ FREE

Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar at Shooters Tavern
Live piano-bar entertainment every Wednesday
Shooters Tavern – 377 Memorial Avenue
8:00 pm
$ FREE

Motorhead Tribute at Black Pirates Pub
Motörhead tribute with local rock support acts
Black Pirates Pub – 215 Red River Road
Doors 8:00 pm / Show 8:30 pm–11:30 pm
 $15 advance / $20 door

Discovery Club
STEAM drop-in activities for kids (age 4+)
Mary J.L. Black Library – 901 Edward Street South
All day
$ FREE

Family Storytime
Early literacy story session with songs & rhymes
County Park Library – 1010 Dawson Road (Unit 108)
10:00 am–11:00 am
$ FREE

Baby and Me Storytime
Interactive storytime for infants (0–12 mo)
Mary J.L. Black Library – 901 Edward Street South
1:30 pm–2:30 pm
$ FREE

Family Movie: Kung Fu Panda 4
Free family-friendly film screening with popcorn
Waverley Library – 285 Red River Road
2:30 pm–4:00 pm
$ FREE

July 17

Summer In The Parking Lot – The Lazys
All-ages live music outdoors as part of the Superior Inn series
Superior Inn Hotel – 555 West Arthur Street
6:00 pm
 $7–$20 (ticket varies)

Thursday Night Group Run
Community 5 km run/walk in Boulevard Lake area
Meet at Rita Street parking lot, Lyon Boulevard W.
6:00 pm–7:00 pm
$ FREE

Piping in the Park – Macgillivray Pipe Band
Live pipe band performance in the park setting
Hillcrest Park – High Street North
7:30 pm–8:30 pm
$ FREE

Discovery Club
STEAM drop-in fun for kids aged 4+, featuring robots, coding and building challenges
Mary J.L. Black Library – 901 Edward Street South
All day
$ FREE

Family Storytime
Early literacy session with stories, songs & rhymes for children and caregivers
Waverley Library – 285 Red River Road
10:00 am–11:00 am
$ FREE

Play Day @ County Park
Drop-in open play with sensory toys and interactive books
County Park Library – 1010 Dawson Road (Unit 108)
1:00 pm–7:30 pm
$ FREE

Crafty Kids
Fine-motor crafts session for ages 3–5 (and all ages welcome)
Mary J.L. Black Library – 901 Edward Street South
2:30 pm–3:30 pm
$ FREE

Blissful Beading
After-school beading crafts for age 4+, with relaxed social crafting environment
County Park Library – 1010 Dawson Road (Unit 108)
3:00 pm–7:30 pm (ends 30 min before closing)
$ FREE

Rec Room (Teen Program)
Art/anime-themed teen hangout with rotating activities at Mary J.L. Black Library
Mary J.L. Black Library – 901 Edward Street South
5:00 pm–7:30 pm
$ FREE

July 18

Toonie Swim at Canada Games Complex
Budget-friendly family swim time with pool access
Canada Games Complex – 420 Winnipeg Avenue
6:00 pm–8:00 pm
 $2 per person

Jazz & Old-Fashioned Fridays ft. Mood Indigo
Smooth live jazz with classic cocktail atmosphere
Anchor & Ore – 2240 Sleeping Giant Parkway
6:00 pm–9:00 pm
$ FREE

DJ Ducktail at Woodside Bar
DJ night with dance and chill vibes (19+)
Woodside Bar – Red River Road
6:00 pm
$ FREE

Paranormal Cirque IV
A mysterious circus under the big top featuring acrobats and illusionists (13+ with adult)
Intercity Shopping Centre Parking Lot – 1000 Fort William Road
9:30 pm (also runs through July 21)
$ TBD (ticketed)

The Selfies at The Foundry
High-energy classic/pop cover band performance
The Foundry – 242 Red River Road
10:00 pm
$ FREE

July 19

Thunder Bay Country Market
Local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods & crafts
Dove Building, Canadian Lakehead Exhibition – 126 E Memorial Ave
8:00 am–1:00 pm
$ FREE

Goods & Co Market
Artisan pop-up market with workshops
251 Red River Road
10:00 am–4:00 pm
$ FREE

Crossroad Music Summer Series
Live outdoor concert featuring local musicians
Crossroad Music – 632 City Road
2:00 pm–4:00 pm
$ FREE

Vinyl Saturdays at Red Lion Smokehouse
Music, food & vinyl DJ vibes
Red Lion Smokehouse – 16 Cumberland St S
3:00 pm–9:00 pm
$ FREE

Festival of India
Colourful cultural celebration with music, performances & food
Marina Park – Water Street
3:00 pm onwards
$ FREE

DJ Rogue at The Foundry
Energetic DJ dance night (19+)
The Foundry – 242 Red River Road
10:00 pm
 $5

July 20

Female Border Collective Skate
Inclusive community skate session for all skill levels
Cinema 5 Skatepark – 115 Cumberland Street North
10:00 am–12:00 pm
$ FREE

Goods & Co Market
Artisan pop-up market with workshops
251 Red River Road
10:00 am–4:00 pm
$ FREE

Festival of Colours
Celebrate community with a vibrant colour-throwing event, music, and fun
Marina Park – Water Street
3:00 pm–8:00 pm
$ FREE

Paranormal Cirque IV
Mystery circus under the “Striped Big Top”—13+ with adult admission
Intercity Shopping Centre Parking Lot – 1000 Fort William Road
8:30 pm
$ TBD (ticketed)

Home of the Day

732 Forbes River Rd

(Realtors if you want your home featured - send us an email: [email protected])

3+1 bedrooms
4 bathroom
4,000 sqft

$1,250,000

Victorian style home on the Kam River with 86 acres.