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- GOOD MORNING - Thunder Bay Digest: 15-8-25
GOOD MORNING - Thunder Bay Digest: 15-8-25
Estimated read time: 11 minutes
Thunder Bay Digest
August 15, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 11 minutes
ISSUE #115
Good morning,
Welcome to Friday and another weekend. I hope everyone had a wonderful week. Enjoy and we’ll see you again on Monday!
In today’s issue, we cover:
- Marcus Luft
News
Automated Garbage Carts to Roll Out in a Pilot Phase This Fall
Thunder Bay is moving forward with its automated garbage cart program.
This fall, roughly 25% of residential households—about 10,000 single‑family homes—will receive wheeled carts as part of a soft launch, complete with new side‑loading collection trucks.
Residents should keep their carts stored at their homes until the week of September 22, when curbside use officially begins. The city says carts, which hold approximately three garbage bags, will improve safety, reduce operating costs, and align with best practices in waste management.
The remainder of households will receive carts mid‑2026. Once the provincially mandated organics pickup starts (expected fall 2026), garbage collection will likely shift to every second week.
Residents need no action now but should be ready for the phased introduction.
Daily Poll
Today’s question is:
Do you like these new garbage cans? |
Wednesday’s Results:
You can download the full results (including comments) here in an Excel file (email addresses have been removed for anonymity).
Local
Murillo Fair Seeks More Hands to Make It Even Better
Looking to support a local tradition? The beloved Murillo Agricultural Fair, running its 72nd edition this year, is on the hunt for volunteers.
Fair coordinator Jane Sanders says there’s a “huge need” for prep help—including setting up booths, running the bake‑sale stand, and managing kids’ events. Volunteers get perks like a free T‑shirt, meal vouchers, and VIP fair access.
With competition cooking contests, horse shows, local food vendors, and midway attractions on the docket, helpers can pick morning or afternoon shifts throughout the August 15–17 weekend.
It’s a great way to connect with neighbours, support rural roots, and keep the Murillo spirit going. If you’ve got a few hours to spare and appreciate small‑town celebrations, the fair committee wants to hear from you.
Community
Northwestern Ontario Women’s Centre Moves to New Location
In exciting news for local advocacy, the Northwestern Ontario Women’s Centre (NOWC) has officially relocated to Suite 201 at 278 Bay Street.
After decades at Cumberland Street North, the team began moving mid-June and opened the doors to the new space to the public on June 25. The center will continue offering programs like the Thunder Bay Good Food Box, weekly drop-ins, legal clinics, and support for gender-based violence advocacy.
To help with the transition, NOWC invited volunteers for packing and setup. The move brings the organization closer to the city core, making their services more accessible and marking a new chapter in a long legacy of feminist support in the region.
City Hall
City Archives to Expand with More Space, Classroom, and Processing Area
The City of Thunder Bay’s Archives & Records Centre is bursting at the seams—with only one shelf left!
Archivist Christina Wakefield says the treasure trove of documents, maps, and artifacts needs more breathing room. A 4,200‑sq‑ft addition—about a 20 % increase—will provide enough capacity to store 40 more years' of records, add staff workspace, a classroom for outreach, a new reading room, and a conservation/processing area.
A contractor will be selected through an RFP, with construction set to begin this fall and wrap up by June 2026. The expansion ensures the city meets legislative responsibilities and keeps the community’s history accessible for generations to come.
Feedback Time
City Seeks Public Input on Community Safety Plan
Thunder Bay is kicking off a public engagement phase to develop its next Community Safety & Well‑Being Plan.
City staff presented to council, outlining major themes—including mental-health support, crime prevention, equity, and emergency preparedness—and invited residents to participate in online surveys, focus groups, and pop-up engagements.
Police Chief and other stakeholders will round out the feedback to inform the five‑year strategy.
The city aims to shift from reactive policing to proactive, community-based solutions—especially addressing racial and economic disparities. Final recommendations will be presented to council early next year.
It’s an opportunity for residents to have a voice in shaping the future of safety and support in Thunder Bay. Click here for more information.
Indigenous News
Drug Bust on Fort William First Nation Nets Two Arrests
OPP, NAS, and A Police Services carried out a drug trafficking investigation resulting in a search warrant executed on July 30 at a Fort William First Nation residence.
Authorities seized suspected cocaine and crack cocaine, imitation firearms, ammunition, four cell phones, $1,500 cash, digital scales, and an SUV. A 40‑year‑old woman from Fort William First Nation now faces 15 charges, including possession of drugs for trafficking, firearms offences, driving while prohibited, and failure to comply with release orders.
A 25‑year‑old man from Thunder Bay was also charged with failure to comply and cocaine trafficking. Police emphasize this seizure reflects ongoing intelligence-led work to curb drug networks across communities.
Things to do This Week
Events In and Around the City
August 15
Library Events & Family Activities
Play Day @ Waverley Library
Independent play with toys and interactive books for all ages
Waverley Library – 285 Red River Road
10:00 am–4:00 pm
$ FREE
Outdoor & Market Experiences
Station Market
Charming artisan market in a historic railway station—candles, pottery, jewelry & more
2212 Sleeping Giant Parkway
10:00 am–5:00 pm
$ FREE
Goods & Co Market
Urban pop-up showcasing local vendors and creative workshops
251 Red River Road
11:00 am–6:00 pm
$ FREE
Marina Park Splash Pad
Waterfront splash pad fun—great for cooling off!
Marina Park (beside Water Garden Pavilion)
11:00 am–8:30 pm
$ FREE
Muskeg Express Train at Centennial Park
Miniature scenic train ride through a historic logging camp re-creation
Centennial Park – Centennial Park Road
11:00 am–4:00 pm (last ride ~3:50 pm)
$ FREE entry; ride ticketed separately
Chippewa Park Amusement Rides
Carousel, beach access, and fun treats in a lakeside park
1735 City Road
1:00 pm–8:00 pm
$ FREE entry; rides individually priced
Events & Entertainment
Festival of Sail – Daily Sails
Beautiful sails on the bay—set sail at 9 am, 12 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm, & 7 pm
Thunder Bay waterfront
Multiple sail times
$ Ticketed (pricing varies)
Dork Brothers ‘Battle of the Paddles’ Race
Exciting canoe/surf ski race with rooftop viewing, and awards/champagne after
Thunder Bay Riverfront
Post-sail race—Awards & Reception 7:00 pm–8:30 pm
$ FREE (drinks for purchase)
Live on the Waterfront Concert Series
Friday evening live music by the harbour
Marina Park
6:00 pm–9:00 pm
$ FREE
The Castagnes and Friends (Music Show)
Live music at a local pub—laid-back and welcoming
Black Pirates Pub – 215 Red River Road
9:00 pm
$ FREE
August 16
Thunder Bay Country Market
Local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods & crafts
Canadian Lakehead Exhibition – 126 E Memorial Ave (Dove Building)
8:00 am–1:00 pm
$ FREE
Westfort Street FairAnnual street fair with food stalls, crafts, and community fun
Westfort Neighbourhood (West Thunder Bay)
9:00 am–5:00 pm
$ FREE
Station Market
Charming artisan vendors in a historic railway station—candles, pottery, jewelry & more
Station Market – 2212 Sleeping Giant Parkway
10:00 am–4:00 pm
$ FREE
Marina Park Splash Pad
Family-friendly splash pad fun by the waterfront
Marina Park – Water Street (adj. Water Garden Pavilion)
11:00 am–8:30 pm
$ FREE
Muskeg Express Train at Centennial Park
Miniature train ride through a historic logging-camp recreation—great for kids!
Centennial Park – Centennial Park Road
11:00 am–4:00 pm (last ride ~3:50)
$ FREE entry; rides ticketed separately
Chippewa Park Amusement Rides & Concessions
Carousel rides, beach access, games & snacks—classic summer park fun
Chippewa Park – 1735 City Road
1:00 pm–8:00 pm
$ FREE entry; ride fees vary
Daniel Moroz Memorial Classic Car Show
Showcase of classic and vintage cars—great for gearheads of all ages
632 City Road (Fort William Reserve)
1:00 pm–10:00 pm
$ FREE
Live Music: Jordan Humeniuk & Friends @ Black Pirates Pub
Acoustic/folk-style local music in a casual, welcoming pub setting
Black Pirates Pub – 215 Red River Road
9:00 pm
$ TBD (likely cover)
Lady Mullet and the Mayhem @ Wayland Bar & Grill
High-energy rock-country band for a late-night crowd (19+)
Wayland Bar & Grill – 1019 Gore Street West
10:00 pm
$5
August 17
Library & Artistic Activities
Summer Studio: Pastel Blooms
Create blooming floral art using soft pastels—great for all ages!
Thunder Bay Art Gallery – 1080 Keewatin Street
1:00 pm–4:00 pm
$ FREE
Morning Markets & Local Flavors
Thunder Bay Country Market
Fresh produce, baked goods & local crafts
CLE Grounds – 126 E Memorial Avenue (Dove Building)
8:00 am–1:00 pm
$ FREE
Station Market
Artisan market in a heritage train station—pottery, candles, jewelry & more
2212 Sleeping Giant Parkway
10:00 am–4:00 pm
$ FREE
Waterfront Fun & Park Attractions
Festival of Sail
Historic tall ships offering 90-minute sails—family-friendly!
Thunder Bay waterfront
At multiple times throughout the day
$ $55 per person (ticketed)
URL:
Marina Park Splash Pad
Waterfront splash zone perfect for cooling off
Water Street (adjacent to Water Garden Pavilion)
11:00 am–8:30 pm | $ FREE
URL:
Muskeg Express Train at Centennial Park
Miniature train through a historic logging camp re-creation
Centennial Park – Centennial Park Road
11:00 am–4:00 pm (last ride ~3:50 pm)
$ FREE entry; short ride ticketed
URL:
Chippewa Park Amusement Rides
Carousel, beach access, and concessions—classic summer fun
1735 City Road
1:00 pm–8:00 pm | $ FREE entry; individual rides priced
URL:
Community & Motorsport Highlights
Daniel Moroz Memorial Classic Car Show
Parade of classic and vintage cars—engaging for car lovers of all ages
632 City Road (Fort William Reserve)
1:00 pm–10:00 pm | $ FREE
Evening Events
Live Music: Jordan Humeniuk & Friends @ Black Pirates Pub
Acoustic/folk music in a casual pub setting
215 Red River Road
9:00 pm | $ Likely FREE cover
URL:
Lady Mullet & the Mayhem @ Wayland Bar & Grill
Rock‑country band for late-night energy (19+)
1019 Gore Street West
10:00 pm | $ $5
Home of the Day
124 Summit Ave
(Realtors if you want your home featured - send us an email: [email protected])
4 bedrooms
3 bathrooms
3,300 sqft
$989,900
Modern updates in this Mariday Park character home.
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