ISSUE #98

Good morning,

Welcome to another week. I hope you had a good weekend. Let’s get it at it for another five days!

In today’s issue, we cover:

• Mining Day festival ⛏️

• Daily Poll - Do you support mining?

• Elder abuse awareness 👴 

• Police warn of increased financial scams 👮‍♂️

• Fire restrictions lifted 🔥

• New CEDC appointee 💵

• More Bill 5 protests  

• Things to do this week 🗓️

• House of the day - College Heights 🏡

- Marcus Luft

Business

City to Celebrate Mining Heritage at “Mining Day” Festival

On June 14, Thunder Bay hosted its annual Mining Day at Marina Park (10 a.m.–4 p.m.), celebrating both its rich mining history and future potential. Mayor Ken Boshcoff raised the Mining Day flag on June 10 to mark the city’s 10th celebration and the 50th anniversary of amethyst being designated the official mineral of Thunder Bay.

Local organizations have organized 65 interactive exhibits and activities—many themed around amethyst—including a “dig for amethyst” station and amethyst cookie decorating.

Women in Mining NWO is also hosting a barbecue fundraiser to support a $21,000 scholarship fund they’ve awarded this year. The event aims to inspire future generations to explore mining careers, promote local suppliers, and highlight environmental stewardship.

Daily Poll

Today’s question is:

Friday’s Results:

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

Municipal

Officials Raise Awareness for National Elder Abuse Awareness Day

On June 13, Thunder Bay City Hall hosted a flag-raising ceremony and presentation marking World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Organized by Age‑Friendly Thunder Bay, Rebecca Johnson (co-chair of the Elder Abuse Prevention Committee) called attention to the often-hidden abuse affecting seniors—ranging from financial exploitation (like “grandparent” phone scams) to emotional neglect.

Thunder Bay’s senior population is among Canada’s highest—approximately 26%—making elder abuse prevention a vital concern. Det. Const. Kevin Middleton stressed that abuse often goes unreported, urging families and neighbours to notice red flags like unexplained financial changes or behavioral withdrawal.

The event aimed to “stop and think” about elder abuse and encourage earlier intervention. Officials encouraged community members to stay connected with older relatives, ask questions, and report concerns. Public outreach materials and hotlines were also shared to support victims and caregivers.

See below…

Police

Police Launch Probe of Fraud Scams Amid Rising Reports

On June 13, Thunder Bay Police issued a warning to residents after a surge in fraud and financial scam complaints. The Thunder Bay Police Service emphasized that fraudsters are using tactics like claiming urgent requests, demanding gift cards, cryptocurrency, or personal information to manipulate victims.

While this rise in scam activity mirrors a national trend, local cases involve vulnerable individuals—often elderly or isolated—falling prey to these schemes. Police urge anyone approached via phone or email asking for payment or unusual information to “hang up or ignore” and confirm legitimacy with official institutions before responding.

Authorities are working with the Canadian Anti‑Fraud Centre and offering resources for victims. This expanded advisory reflects TBPS’s proactive effort to increase public awareness and prevent financial harm in the community.

Outdoors

Fire Restrictions Lifted Across Northwest Amid Ongoing Wildfire Threats

On June 13, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry lifted the Restricted Fire Zone designation (RFZ) in several Northwestern Ontario zones, effective at 12:01 a.m. The decision followed improved weather conditions, precipitation forecasts, and reduced fire activity in areas including zones 2–4 and 6–11.

Officials cautioned that lifting restrictions does not eliminate risk—dry spells can trigger new fires. As of June 12, there were 21 active wildland fires in the region; seven remain uncontrolled, five are under control, one is contained, and eight are being monitored.

Notable blazes like Red Lake 12 (163,227 ha), Nipigon 5 (10,816 ha), and Kenora 20 (36,043 ha) still pose threats. The MNRF issued a reminder that human-caused fires remain the leading risk—urging residents to report smoke or fire immediately, check local rules, and adhere to drone restrictions near firefighting operations.

Economics

CEDC Appoints Denise Atkinson to Advance Indigenous Economic Leadership

On June 13, the Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) announced the appointment of Denise Atkinson to its Board of Directors. Atkinson—an Ojibwe member of Red Rock Indian Band—is the founder and CEO of Tea Horse and Tipi Horse Connects, and is recognized for her advocacy advancing Indigenous women and business in the region.

With over 20 years in Canada’s federal public service and leadership roles in the Canadian Aboriginal & Minority Supplier Council and Canadian Council for Indigenous Business, her inclusion signals renewed dedication to inclusivity and Indigenous entrepreneurship.

CEDC CEO Jamie Taylor calls Denise “a great asset,” emphasizing her insights will help shape economic growth that reflects Thunder Bay’s diversity. Board Chair Roger Souckey echoed that her presence strengthens Indigenous representation in economic development—supporting community prosperity through diverse leadership.

Indigenous News

First Nations Rally in Thunder Bay Against Bill 5 Development Legislation

On June 13, around 200 First Nations leaders and supporters gathered outside MPP Kevin Holland’s office in Thunder Bay to protest Ontario’s new Bill 5, known as the Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act. The CBC-covered rally focused on concerns that the legislation, which creates “economic zones” permitting regulation bypass, threatens Indigenous treaty rights and environmental protections.

Couchiching First Nation member Mary McPherson carried a poignant protest sign depicting Doug Ford with dollar signs over his eyes standing before a burnt forest and the torn James Bay Treaty. The group demanded full repeal of Bill 5, citing lack of proper consultation and fear of unchecked resource development in areas like the Ring of Fire.

Advocates say the legislation prioritizes profit over Indigenous consent and cultural well-being. The peaceful rally underscored calls for respect, treaty compliance, and responsible development that includes First Nations’ voices at every stage.

Things to do This Week

Events In and Around the City

June 16

Thunder Bay Swing Dancing Society
Free swing dancing lessons
CD Howe Public School - 30 Wishart Crescent
7pm
$ FREE

Thunder Bay Border Cats vs La Crosse Loggers
Baseball game
Port Arthur Stadium - 420 Lisgar St
6:35pm
$38.51

Dart Tournament
Cricket-style dart tournament
Red Lion Smokehouse - 16 Cumberland St S
7pm-11pm
$ FREE

Baby and Me Storytime at County Park
Drop in for finger plays, bounces, stories and songs followed by playtime and socializing. Best for babies from birth through 12 months.
County Park Library - 1020 Dawson Rd
11:15am-11:45am
$ FREE

Thunder Bay Geology and Lapidary Club
Regular meeting of the Thunder Bay Geology and Lapidary Club - open to the public!
Waverley Library - 285 Red River Rd
6pm-7:45pm
$ FREE

June 17

Thunder Bay Border Cats vs La Crosse Loggers
Baseball game
Port Arthur Stadium - 420 Lisgar St
11:05am
$38.51

Tuesday Group Run
Friendly group of runners doing a 5km around Boulevard Lake - all levels welcome!
Rita Street parking lot - Boulevard Lark
6:30pm-7:30pm
$ FREE

Thunder Bay Border Cats vs La Crosse Loggers
Baseball game
Port Arthur Stadium - 420 Lisgar St
6:35pm
$38.51

Tai Chi in the Park
Peng You Tai Chi Quan Association hosted event
Marina Park - Water Street
7pm-8pm
$ FREE

Baby Rave
Baby’s first rave!
Waverley Library - 285 Red River Rd
1:30pm-2:30pm
$ FREE

June 18

The Little Mermaid JR
Theatrical performance adapted from Disney’s Broadway production and motion picture
Paramout Theatre - 24 Court St S
7pm
$15

Name That Tune - Movie Musicals
Live music trivia
Sleeping Giant Brewing Co - 712 Macdonell St
7pm-9pm
$ FREE

Sip & Salsa With Sharon - Mocktails, Music, and Movement
Ladies-only evening to shake off the stress, sip something sweet and dance through the hump day slump
Dame Más Dance Studio - Arthur St W and Mapleward Rd
7pm-9pm
$30

Pierogi Days
Pre-order or pickup homemade pierogi’s, cabbage rolls, baked chicken, vegan beet soup and more
Polish Combatants’ Association Branch No. 1 - 209 N Cumberland St
9am-4:30pm

Thunder Bay Border Cats vs La Crosse Loggers
Baseball game
Port Arthur Stadium - 420 Lisgar St
6:35pm
$38.51

Drag Bingo - 18+ Event
Hosted by Mz Molly Poppinz - featuring laughs, competition and a few performances
Norteños Cantina - 235 Red River Rd
8pm-10:30pm
$ FREE

June 19

Summer In The Parking Lot 2025 Concert Series
Summer live music series featuring this week: Norwesterview Night of Knights, Lakeside District, V3NOM
Superior Inn Parking Lot - 555 W. Arther St
Gates 5:30pm; Show 6pm
$7 at gate

The Little Mermaid JR
Theatrical performance adapted from Disney’s Broadway production and motion picture
Paramout Theatre - 24 Court St S
7pm
$15

Thunder Bay Border Cats vs Waterloo Bucks
Baseball game
Port Arthur Stadium - 420 Lisgar St
6:35pm
$38.51

Thursday Group Run
Friendly group of runners doing a 5km with the Metre Eaters - all levels welcome!
Fresh Air - 710 Balmoral St
6:30pm-7:30pm
$ FREE

Indigenous Author Series: David A Robertson
An evening with the award winning best-selling author
Waverley Library - 285 Red River Rd
6pm-8pm
Registration Required

June 20

The Little Mermaid JR
Theatrical performance adapted from Disney’s Broadway production and motion picture
Paramout Theatre - 24 Court St S
7pm
$15

Faery Midnight Mystic Market
Evening filled with captivating fairy drag, psychic insights, enchanting siren treasures, burlesque performers, mesmerizing fire breathers & unique artisans
Goods & Co - 251 Red River Rd
8pm
$5

Thunder Bay Border Cats vs Waterloo Bucks
Baseball game
Port Arthur Stadium - 420 Lisgar St
6:35pm
$38.51

June 21

Crossroad Music Summer Series 2025
Live local musicians and acts
Crossroad Music - 632 City Rd
2pm-8pm
$ FREE

Cambrian Players 75th Anniversary Gala
Dinner, presentation and dancing celebrating Cambrian Players
Slovak Legion - 801 Atlantic Ave
6pm-11:30pm
$65-$75

Duck and Run Thunder Bay 2025
Fundraising race in support of Ducks Unlimited Canada
Kamview Nordic Centre - 851 20th Side Road
10am
Register Here

National Indigenous People Day Pow Wow
Pow wow, food vendors, crafters and feast
Fort William First Nation Area (for bus service to Pow Wow) - 200 Mission Rd
12pm-7:30pm
$ FREE

Home of the Day

257 College St

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

2+1 bedrooms
2 bathroom
1,152 sqft

$359,900

College Heights neighbourhood, fully fenced yard, original hard wood