ISSUE #92

Good morning,

Things to Do is back! It’s very time intensive and I didn’t have a chance last week to finalize it. But it’s here now. Enjoy!

Stay safe!

In today’s issue, we cover:

• Thunder Bay under a fire ban 🧯

• Daily Poll - How long will the ban last??  

• Border Cats thrilling win ⚾️

• DUI arrest 👮‍♂️

• June is starting smokey 💨

• Leamington man wins $1.8 million 🙌

• Call for assistance among increasing wild fires

• Things to do this week 🗓️

• House of the day - Golf course living 🏡

- Marcus Luft

Public Safety

Thunder Bay Fire Ban Implemented as Wildfire Risks Intensify

Thunder Bay Fire Rescue officially implemented a citywide fire ban starting May 30, 2025, in response to the escalating wildfire conditions across the region. With the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) declaring a Restricted Fire Zone for much of Northwestern Ontario, including Thunder Bay, the city is aligning its local policies to reduce the risk of human-caused fires during a critical period.

The ban prohibits all open-air burning, including backyard fire pits, campfires, chimineas, and the use of burn barrels. Residents are, however, still permitted to cook using propane, natural gas, or charcoal barbecues, provided they are attended and used safely.

Officials warn that violations of the fire ban could result in fines exceeding $300, as well as additional charges if a fire results in damage or requires emergency services. The MNRF reports that resources are already stretched thin due to multiple active fires across the region, particularly near Red Lake, Dryden, and Kenora.

This ban will remain in effect until further notice and is subject to change based on weather conditions and fire activity. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring the city’s website, social media, and the provincial forest fire information portal.

With summer just getting started, officials are hoping early action — and community compliance — will prevent a repeat of past wildfire emergencies. For now, it’s campfires out and caution on.

Daily Poll

Today’s question is:

Wednesday’s Results:

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

Sports

Thunder Bay Border Cats Rally for Thrilling 11–10 Victory Over Rochester

The Thunder Bay Border Cats kicked off their weekend series at Port Arthur Stadium in dramatic fashion on Saturday night, pulling off an unforgettable comeback to defeat the Rochester Honkers 11–10. In a game that saw four lead changes, a booming home run, and clutch bullpen pitching, the Cats showed early-season resilience and gave the home crowd plenty to cheer about.

Trailing 10–6 going into the bottom of the eighth inning, Thunder Bay’s bats exploded. Five runs were scored in a single frame, capped off by a two-run double from infielder Jaden Cruz and a game-tying single by outfielder Will Travers. With the go-ahead run now on the board, relief pitcher Blake McConnell entered the ninth inning and shut the door, stranding the tying run at second base to seal the win.

Defensive highlights included a spectacular diving catch by outfielder Calvin Warrillow in the second inning, robbing what would have been an extra-base hit. The bullpen, after early struggles, delivered three scoreless innings to hold off a potent Rochester lineup that had scored 20 runs over its previous two games.

The victory brought Thunder Bay’s early-season record to 2–2 and split the two-game weekend series. Manager Sarah Delgado praised her team’s grit, saying, “We didn’t panic. Everyone stayed locked in and came through when it mattered most. Nights like this show what we’re capable of.”

The Border Cats now look ahead to a three-game home set against the Duluth Huskies starting Monday. With momentum on their side and the stands filling up, Thunder Bay fans may be in for a summer full of fireworks — on and off the field.

Police

Wunnumin Lake Man Charged with Impaired Driving on Highway 61

A 42-year-old man from Wunnumin Lake First Nation is facing impaired driving charges after being stopped by Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) during the early hours of May 31, 2025, along Highway 61 near the southern boundary of Thunder Bay. The accused, Calvin Suganaqueb, was pulled over following a public traffic complaint and was found to be under the influence of alcohol.

According to the OPP, the responding officer observed erratic driving patterns and stopped the vehicle around 2:30 a.m.near Mountain Road. A roadside screening test was administered, after which Suganaqueb was transported to the detachment for further testing. He was later charged with Operation While Impaired – Alcohol and Drugs, Operation with Blood Alcohol Concentration Over 80, and Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle.

He was released with a court date scheduled for late June. His vehicle was impounded for seven days, and his driver’s license has been suspended automatically for 90 days under Ontario’s administrative penalty laws.

While no injuries or accidents were reported, police reiterated the importance of calling in suspected impaired drivers. “Every time a concerned citizen picks up the phone, they could be preventing a tragedy,” said Sgt. Al Carruthers of the Thunder Bay OPP detachment.

The arrest adds to a troubling trend in the region, as the Northwest continues to report higher-than-average impaired driving rates compared to the rest of Ontario. As summer traffic increases, OPP and Thunder Bay Police have said they will increase enforcement through spot checks and saturation patrols in known high-risk corridors.

Weather

Thunder Bay Swings From Frost to Fire as June Weather Turns Smoky

If you woke up early in Thunder Bay on June 1 thinking winter had returned, you weren’t alone. Temperatures started the morning around 2°C, only to swing dramatically to a sunny 26°C by the afternoon. The warm-up was rapid, welcome — and a little smoky.

Meteorologists say the temperature swing was caused by a warm front blowing into the region from the west, overtaking the cooler air mass that had dominated for most of the past week. The result? A classic Northwestern Ontario weather whiplash.

But along with the heat came something less welcome: wildfire smoke. Officials with Environment Canada have issued an Air Quality Advisory for Thunder Bay and surrounding areas, warning that fine particulate matter from fires in Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario is likely to lower air quality in the coming days.

Residents with respiratory issues — including asthma, COPD, and heart conditions — are advised to limit outdoor exertion, especially during the afternoon when pollutant levels tend to spike.

The smoke is expected to linger through Monday, depending on wind patterns. On the bright side, some relief may come from scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms, which are in the forecast for early next week.

Meanwhile, the city’s Emergency Operations Centre is monitoring air quality and remains on alert in case the smoke conditions worsen. As always, people are encouraged to check Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) readings before heading out.

So yes, summer’s arrived — but it’s bringing fire, not just sunshine.

Lottery

PSW From Leamington Wins $1.8M in Thunder Bay’s Monthly 50/50 Draw

For Rolando Duran, a personal support worker (PSW) from Leamington, Ontario, a modest $20 ticket just turned into a $1.8 million windfall — thanks to Thunder Bay’s Regional Health Sciences Foundation 50/50 draw.

The May jackpot marked one of the largest in the lottery’s history. When Duran received the winning call, he was in disbelief. “I thought it was a prank,” he said with a laugh. “I’ve never won anything like this. It’s life-changing.”

Duran, who has been working in long-term care for over a decade, says the timing couldn’t be better. The win will allow him to support his family, donate to local charities, and potentially retire a few years early. “I love my job, but now I can breathe a little easier,” he added.

The Thunder Bay 50/50 draw has gained a strong following across Ontario, with participants tuning in each month in hopes of landing the big prize. Proceeds go toward funding equipment, upgrades, and patient care at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, which serves patients from across Northwestern Ontario.

Glenn Craig, President and CEO of the Foundation, noted that community support has been overwhelming. “Every ticket helps save lives and improve care across the region,” he said.

Next month’s draw opens soon, and early ticket sales suggest another big pot is on the horizon. As for Duran? He’s planning a quiet celebration with family and maybe a small splurge. “A new fishing boat doesn’t sound too bad,” he joked.

Indigenous News

Sol Mamakwa Urges Immediate Support for First Nations Amid Escalating Wildfire Crisis

As wildfires intensify across Northern Ontario, Kiiwetinoong MPP Sol Mamakwa is calling on the provincial government to take swift and comprehensive action to support First Nations communities facing imminent threats to safety, health, and infrastructure.

Deer Lake First Nation and Webequie First Nation have both declared states of emergency due to nearby wildfires—Red Lake 12 and Nipigon 5, respectively. Deer Lake is planning a full evacuation, while Webequie has initiated a Phase 1 evacuation for elders, medically vulnerable residents, and children as smoke and unpredictable winds create hazardous conditions.

“This is not the time for bureaucracy or budget cuts—it is a time for coordinated, compassionate action,” Mamakwa emphasized. He criticized the Ontario government’s recent $42 million cut to emergency forest firefighting in its 2025 budget, highlighting the increasing dangers posed by longer and more intense wildfire seasons due to climate change.

Thunder Bay, often serving as a regional hub for evacuees from remote First Nations during wildfire emergencies, may once again play a crucial role in hosting displaced community members. Local officials and service providers are preparing to offer health care, shelter, and community support to those affected.

Mamakwa also acknowledged the leadership of local First Nations governments: “Meegwetch to the Chiefs and Councils of Deer Lake and Webequie for your decisive action in keeping people safe. And to all the frontline workers—your work does not go unnoticed.”

With multiple fires still active across the region, including Kenora 20 and Sioux Lookout 3, the risk to remote First Nations remains high. Mamakwa’s call for better funding and Indigenous-led emergency response grows more urgent—not just for the North, but for Ontario as a whole.

Things to do This Week

Events In and Around the City

June 2

The Lion King Kids
Based on the broadway production
Paramount Theatre - 24 Court St S
7pm
$12

Puzzle Swap
Tired of doing the same puzzles? Swap your old ones for new ones!
All Thunder Bay Public Library Locations
All day - for the entire month of June
$ FREE

Discovery Club
Self-guided family exploration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math
Mary JL Black Library - 901 Edward St S
9:30am - 7:30pm
$ FREE

Get Crafy - Paint a Pot
Paint a flower pot for gardening season
Mary JL Black Library - 901 Edward St S
2pm-3:30pm (registration required)
$ FREE

June 3

Nerd Nite
Casual gathering of speakers who present something they’re passionate about.
Sleeping Gian Brewing Co - 721 Macdonell St
7pm
$ FREE

The Lion King Kids
Based on the broadway production
Paramount Theatre - 24 Court St S
7pm
$12

Tuesday Group Run
Running group for ANY level of speed or fitness
Meet at Rita Street Parking Lot - Boulevard Lake Park
6:30pm-7:30pm
$ FREE

Thunder Bay Border Cats vs Duluth
Live baseball
Port Arthur Stadium - 420 Lisgar St
6:35pm
$30.10

Thai Chi in the Park
Peng You Tai Chi Quan Association providing free Thai chi sessions
Marina Park
7pm-8pm
$ FREE

Family Storytime
Drop in to practice early literacy skills- for all ages
Mary JL Black Library - 901 Edward St S
10am-11am
$ FREE

Northern Focus Photography Club
Pride Month networking and photography workshop
Waverley Library - 285 Red River Rd
5pm-8pm
$ FREE

June 4

Name That Tune
Live musical trivia game
Sleeping Giant Brewing Co - 721 Macdonell St
7pm-9pm
$ FREE

Peirogi Day
Pick-up home-made pierogis, sauerkraut, cabbage rolls, baked chicken, vegan beet soup and more
Polish Combatants’ Association Branch 1 - 209 N Cumberland St
9am-4:30pm
$$ Unknown

Thunder Bay Border Cats vs Duluth
Live baseball
Port Arthur Stadium - 420 Lisgar St
11:05am
$30.10

Puppy Perks Storytime
Drop in for story time with puppies!
Mary JL Black Library - 901 Edward St S
10am-11am
$ FREE

Blissful Beading
Drop-in after school and relax while you create beaded trinkets. Ages 4+
County Park Library - 1020 Dawson Rd
3pm-7:30pm
$ FREE

June 5

The 4th Annual FWFN Drag Show
FWFN Youth & Social Development Pride Month drag show
FWFN Gymnasium - 200 Mission Rd
6pm-8pm
$ FREE

Festival BONJOUR!
Centre francophone 3-day urban francophone festival
Magnus Theatre & Waverley Park - 10 Algoma St S
6pm-11pm
$15-$100

The Lion King Kids
Based on the broadway production
Paramount Theatre - 24 Court St S
7pm
$12

Thursday Group Run
Running group for ANY level of speed or fitness
Meet at Rita Street Parking Lot - Boulevard Lake Park
6:30pm-7:30pm
$ FREE

Thai Chi in the Park
Peng You Tai Chi Quan Association providing free Thai chi sessions
Marina Park
7:30am-8:30am
$ FREE

June 6

Festival BONJOUR!
Centre francophone 3-day urban francophone festival
Magnus Theatre & Waverley Park - 10 Algoma St S
6pm-11pm
$15-$100

Elvis Night at the Brewery
Featuring Nish King, the Elvis tribute artist!
Sleeping Giant Brewing Co - 712 MacDonell St
6:30pm
$15

The Lion King Kids
Based on the broadway production
Paramount Theatre - 24 Court St S
7pm
$12

Disney’s Dare to Dream Jr.
Disney theatre production featuring hits from The Princess and the Frog, Coco, Encanto, Frozen and more - a celebration of 100 years of Disney Magic
Redwood Park Church - 2609 Redwood Ave E
7pm-8:30pm
$20

Luke Warm and Cold Ones
Live musical performance
The Foundry - 242 Red River Rd
10pm
$5 at the door

June 7

Festival BONJOUR!
Centre francophone 3-day urban francophone festival
Magnus Theatre & Waverley Park - 10 Algoma St S
8:30am-11pm
$15-$100

June Classic 5K and 10K
Thunder Bay Metre Eaters Signature Race Series at Boulevard Lake
Boulevard Lake - Rita Street parking lot
10am-12pm
$ (Registration closed to participate but you can watch and cheer for free!)

Grain Days 2025
Family event that provides fun and exploratory activities into our past and present Grain Industry
St. Jude’s School - 345 Ogden St
11am-4pm
$ FREE

Cornhole Tournament
Brewery champion will travel to compete in the Cornhole Tournament at the Sault Ste. Marie Festival of Beer on June 14
Sleeping Giant Brewing Co - 712 Macdonell St
2pm
$ FREE (registration required - call (807) 344-5225)

Crossroad Music Summer Series 2025
Live music from local acts and musicians
Fort William First Nation - 632 City Road
2pm-8pm
$ FREE

NoFilter Comedy Tour
Live comedy performance
Da Vinci Centre - 340 Waterloo St S
6pm-11pm
$25-$35

Disney’s Dare to Dream Jr.
Disney theatre production featuring hits from The Princess and the Frog, Coco, Encanto, Frozen and more - a celebration of 100 years of Disney Magic
Redwood Park Church - 2609 Redwood Ave E
7pm-8:30pm
$20

A Complete Unknown Too - Rodney Brown sings Dylan
Live music - Bob Dylan cover songs
Italian Cultural Centre - 132 Algoma St S
7:30pm-10:30pm
$30

June 8

Female Border Collective Skate
Come join other women and girls skateboarders
Cinema 5 Skatepark - 115 Cumberland Street N
10am-12pm
$ Unknown

Kite Festival
Flying kits, outdoor games, crafts and activities for all ages
Chippewa Park - 1735 City Road
11am-3pm
$ FREE

Alonzo Bodden
Live comedy
Paramount Theatre - 24 Court St S
7:30pm
$40-$50

The Great Benamins Circus: Under the Big Top
A real circus!
Canadian Lakehead Exhibition - 425 Northern Ave
4:30pm & 7:30pm
$20-$40

Superior Quilt Show
A celebration of quilting!
Canadian Lakehead Exhibition - Coliseum Building - 425 Northern Ave
12pm-8pm
$7

Séan McCann - The Great Big Canadian Road Trip
One man, one guitar, a lot of music, stories and connection
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
7pm
$25-$40

The SpongeBob Musical
Broadway version of the favourite kids cartoon
Paramount Theatre - 24 Court St S
7pm
$20

Cambrian Players: A Year With Frog and Toad
A family friendly musical
Cambrian Players - 818 Spring St
7pm
$15-$30

Play Day @ Mary J
Families drop in for self-guided free play and socialization with toys, puzzles, and games
Mary JL Black Library - 901 Edward St S
9:30am-4:30pm
$ FREE

Play Day @ Waverley
Families drop in for self-guided free play and socialization with toys, puzzles, and games
Waverley Library - 285 Red River Rd
10am-4pm
$ FREE

Karaoke:

• The Hodder - 481 Hooder Ave
  9pm

• The Dragon’s Den - 1010 Dawson Rd
  10pm

• The Social - 1047 Dawson Rd
  9:30pm

• The Bar - 863 Red River Rd
  10pm

• The Waterhouse - 9 Cumberland St S
  10pm

May 24

Cambrian Players: A Year With Frog and Toad
A family friendly musical
Cambrian Players - 818 Spring St
7pm
$15-$30

The Great Benamins Circus: Under the Big Top
A real circus!
Canadian Lakehead Exhibition - 425 Northern Ave
1:30pm & 7:30pm
$20-$40

Crossroad Music Rocking the Rez 2025
Summer music series
632 City Road, Fort William First Nation
2pm-8pm (rain or shine)
$ FREE

Superior Quilt Show
A celebration of quilting!
Canadian Lakehead Exhibition - Coliseum Building - 425 Northern Ave
10am-4pm
$7

The SpongeBob Musical
Broadway version of the favourite kids cartoon
Paramount Theatre - 24 Court St S
7pm
$20

TBBS presents Blues Blast 2025 at the Da Vinci
Live blues music
Da Vinci Centre - 340 Waterloo St S
6pm-11pm
$70-$75

Tech Club
Meet-up for kids and parents who want support navigating modern technology - aspiring coders, digital artists, gamers, tinkerers etc
Waverley Public Library - 285 Red River Rd
1pm-3pm
$ FREE

Karaoke:

• Westfort Prosvita - 721 Gore St W
  8pm-12am

• Howl at the Moon - Sober Karaoke - 8 Cumberland St S
  9pm

• The Hodder - 481 Hodder Ave
  9pm

• The Social - 1047 Dawson Rd
  9pm

• The Bar - 863 Red River Rd
  10pm

• The Dragons Den - 1010 Dawson Rd
  10pm

May 24

Female Border Collective Skate
Female skateboarding at an indoor skate park
Cinema 5 Skate Park - 115 Cumberland St North
10am-12pm
$ UNSURE - Call 807-285-7588 for details

Cambrian Players: A Year With Frog and Toad
A family friendly musical
Cambrian Players - 818 Spring St
1:30pm
$15-$30

Superior Quilt Show
A celebration of quilting!
Canadian Lakehead Exhibition - Coliseum Building - 425 Northern Ave
10am-3pm
$7

The Great Benamins Circus: Under the Big Top
A real circus!
Canadian Lakehead Exhibition - 425 Northern Ave
1:30pm & 4:30pm
$20-$40

The SpongeBob Musical
Broadway version of the favourite kids cartoon
Paramount Theatre - 24 Court St S
7pm
$20

Home of the Day

2551 King George’s Park Dr

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

4+1 bedrooms
3 bathroom
3,000 sqft

$999,900

Golf course living!