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- GOOD MORNING - Thunder Bay Digest: 21-7-25
GOOD MORNING - Thunder Bay Digest: 21-7-25
Estimated read time: 10 minutes
Thunder Bay Digest
July 21, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 12 minutes
ISSUE #109
Good morning,
In today’s issue, we cover:
- Marcus Luft
Investment
FedNor’s Major Funding Boosts Northern Ontario Projects
Thunder Bay saw the FedNor announcement live at Mission Island Marsh, led by MP Patty Hajdu alongside Minister Navdeep Bains’ representative.
The update focused on the Prosperity & Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario and a funding splash of $4.57 million for 22 tourism-related projects across the region. Local initiatives span infrastructure upgrades, festival expansions, and new tourism experiences—all aimed at drawing in more visitors year-round.
FedNor remains committed to economic vitality in the North, supporting community-driven endeavors that spur jobs and growth.
For Thunder Bay, this means stronger tourism infrastructure, more seasonal attractions, and a boost to small businesses as they gear up for summer and beyond.
Daily Poll
Today’s question is:
Do you think FedNor is doing a good job? |
Monday’s Results:
You can download the full results (including comments) here in an Excel file (email addresses have been removed for anonymity).
News
Smoke Returns: Air Quality Advisory Issued in Thunder Bay
Just in time for the weekend, Thunder Bay’s air took a turn for the worse. Smoke from Northern Ontario wildfires and distant prairie fires drifted in, prompting Environment Canada to issue a special air quality statement starting July 19.
Temps stayed warm, but that came with a smoky price tag—reduced visibility and potential irritation for the eyes, throat, and lungs. Experts are advising folks to cut back on outdoor plans, especially strenuous activities, and particularly for children, seniors, pregnant individuals, and people with respiratory concerns.
The poor air could linger through Sunday, into Monday. If you’re planning a hike or weekend fun, maybe swap your plans for indoors—or grab an N95 mask if you head out. Keeping tabs on local air quality updates will be key for staying healthy this wildfire season.
Energy
NWMO Opens Talks on Nuclear Waste Site Near Ignace
The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) is kicking off early-stage community consultations about its proposal for a deep geological repository near Revell Lake—just outside Ignace and Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation.
Over the next 20 years, the NWMO will engage Indigenous communities, municipalities, and the public through virtual sessions and town halls starting this July and August.
The goal?
Drafting an initial project description with input before moving into technical and regulatory work. NWMO planners stressed the importance of transparency, consent, and active engagement—this isn’t just about building a facility; it’s about building trust.
Locals can expect lots of opportunities to weigh in on everything from land use to environmental safeguards. It’s early days, but if you live or care about life in Northern Ontario, this is your chance to help shape the future of nuclear waste management in the region.
Politics
Mayor Pledges Yes Vote—If Shelter Village Funding Included
At a packed July 14 meeting, Thunder Bay Mayor Ken Boshcoff said he’ll support the Miles Street shelter village plan—if his last-minute amendment passes.
The tweak would earmark an additional $300,000 for supports like transportation, mental-health services, and enhanced community safety measures.
Council will debate the inclusion of this “wrap-around” support before voting on the shelter location. Boshcoff emphasized it’s not just about finding a place, but building the infrastructure around it—so residents and neighbours feel heard and safe.
If approved, the Mayor says the support package could be integrated by next week’s final vote. Right now, it’s a matter of whether the city is ready not just to house, but to help.
Police
Police Warn of Refund Scam by Email
Thunder Bay Police Service has issued a warning: don’t fall for emails promising refunds or reimbursements—it’s a scam.
Victims have been receiving phishing messages that look legit, requesting personal or banking info. These scammers may spoof official logos, but the TPS wants the public to know they won’t reach out for refunds via email or text.
If you get an unexpected message asking for payment info or login credentials, just delete it. Report any suspicious emails to the Canadian Anti‑Fraud Centre. And if you mistakenly share your info, contact your bank right away—don’t wait. It’s best to stay safe online and stick to trusted sources for refunds or official notices.
Indigenous News
Mushkegowuk Chiefs Declare Ring of Fire a Protected Homeland
The Mushkegowuk Council chiefs took a historic stand on July 15, formally designating the Ring of Fire region in Northern Ontario a protected Indigenous homeland.
That means any future exploration, mining, road-building, and rail development in the area—known for massive chromite deposits—must receive consent from the Mushkegowuk communities first.
The resolution emphasizes water protection, Indigenous sovereignty, and rights to self-determination, pushing back against resource projects that could jeopardize the land, waterways, and traditional ways.
It doesn’t legally stop companies or government from proceeding, but it adds a powerful political and cultural barrier. The chiefs are calling for consultation based on free, prior, and informed consent—basically, don’t roll ahead without us.
This declaration adds to growing momentum among First Nations across the Ring of Fire to assert control over their traditional territories.
Things to do This Week
Events In and Around the City
July 21
Community Living Duck Hunt
City-wide scavenger hunt—find decorative ducks around Thunder Bay and share your photo!
Various locations across Thunder Bay
All day
$ FREE
Waverley Park Concert Series
Free weekly summer concert—bring a chair and enjoy live music
Waverley Park – Waverley Street
6:30 pm–9:00 pm
$ FREE
City Council (Public Meeting) / Committee of the Whole
Public municipal council meeting—open to residents
City Hall – 500 Donald Street East (3rd Floor)
6:30 pm–11:00 pm
$ FREE (public attendance)
Paranormal Cirque IV
Mysterious, big-top circus—ages 13+ only; 13–17 accompanied by an adult
Across from Intercity Shopping Centre Parking Lot – 1000 Fort William Road
7:30 pm
$ TBD (ticket required)
Open Mic Night @ The Foundry
Open-mic performance night—musicians, poets, comedians welcome
The Foundry – 242 Red River Road
7:30 pm
$ FREE
July 22
Jazzy Tuesdays With Mood Indigo
Smooth live jazz 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 session by the water
Marina Park – Water Street
7:00 pm–8:00 pm
$ FREE
Lies and Legends – The Musical Stories of Harry Chapin
Outdoor stage performance featuring the music and stories of Harry Chapin
Magnus Theatre Outdoor Stage – 10 Algoma St. S.
7:30 pm–[~9:00 pm]
$ FREE
July 23
PIEROGI DAYS!!!
Homemade Polish pierogi, cabbage rolls, soups & more
Polish Combatants’ Association – 209 N Cumberland Street
9:00 am–4:30 pm
$ FREE
Rock Painting at Toy Sense!
Creative rock painting for kids (adult supervision required) — with drinks available at Wildwood Café
Toy Sense – 447 May Street North
1:00 pm–3:00 pm
$ FREE
Live on the Waterfront Concert Series
Free weekly family-friendly concert series at the marina
Marina Park – Water Street
6:00 pm–9:00 pm
$ FREE
Lies and Legends – The Musical Stories of Harry Chapin
Outdoor stage performance featuring the music and stories of Harry Chapin
Magnus Theatre Outdoor Stage – 10 Algoma St. S.
7:30 pm–[~9:00 pm]
$ FREE
July 24
Night at the Ballpark
Doubleheader baseball evening at the stadium
Port Arthur Stadium – 420 Lisgar Street
5:00 pm (Game 1), 8:05 pm (Game 2)
Adults $17 · Seniors/Students $14 · Children $6 · Infants FREE
Summer In The Parking Lot – Sour Creme & The Silver Spoons
All‑ages live music in the Superior Inn parking lot
Superior Inn – 555 West Arthur Street
6:00 pm
$7–$20
Piping in the Park – Macgillivray Pipe Band
Evening pipe-band performance in Greenway park setting
Hillcrest Park – High Street North
7:30 pm–8:30 pm
$ FREE
The DeFAMED All Ages Show
Family-friendly variety show for kids & adults
Black Pirates Pub – 215 Red River Road
8:00 pm–11:30 pm
$ FREE
July 25
Jazz & Old-Fashioned Fridays ft. Mood Indigo
Smooth live jazz in a relaxed atmosphere
Anchor & Ore – 2240 Sleeping Giant Parkway
6:00 pm–9:00 pm
$ FREE?
Toonie Swim at Canada Games Complex
Family-friendly swim time for only $2
Canada Games Complex – 420 Winnipeg Avenue
6:00 pm
$2 per person
DJ Ducktail at Woodside Bar
Lively DJ set with dance vibes—19+
Woodside Bar – Red River Road
6:00 pm
$ FREE
Thunder Bay Border Cats Game
Summer baseball game at Port Arthur Stadium
Port Arthur Stadium – 420 Lisgar Street
6:35 pm
$ Ticketed
La francophonie dans tous ses états (Kickoff)
Opening night of Francophone arts festival
Definitely Superior Art Gallery – 115 Cumberland Street North
7:00 pm
$ FREE
Buskers Kick-Off Party @ Goods & Co Market
Street performers and live entertainment
Goods & Co Market – 251 Red River Road
7:00 pm
$ FREE
Throwback at The Foundry
Retrospective music night featuring classic hits
The Foundry – 242 Red River Road
10:00 pm
$ FREE
July 26
Bay & Algoma Buskers Festival
Street performers, musicians, craft booths & food trucks|
Waterfront District – Bay Street & Algoma Street
10:00 am–6:00 pm
$ FREE
Crossroad Music Summer Series
Outdoor live music featuring local bands
Crossroad Music – 632 City Road
2:00 pm–4:00 pm
$ FREE
Storytime with Mz Molly & Friendz
Children’s storytime followed by crafting at the library
Mary J.L. Black Library – 901 Edward Street South
2:30 pm–4:00 pm
$ FREE
Thunder Bay Border Cats Game
Summer baseball game at Port Arthur Stadium
Port Arthur Stadium – 420 Lisgar Street
6:35 pm
$ Ticketed (prices vary)
July 27
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
Northwood Hills 5K
Community-friendly 5 km run on paved Parkdale Trail
Boulevard Lake – Meet at Rita Street parking lot
10:00 am–12:00 pm
$ FREE (registration required by July 23)
Garden Tour 2025
Self-guided walking tour of beautiful local community gardens
Various residential neighbourhoods (map provided at start locations)
10:00 am–4:00 pm
$ FREE
Bay & Algoma Buskers Festival
Annual street-performer festival with music, arts, and food vendors
Bay Street & Algoma Street waterfront district
10:00 am–6:00 pm
$ FREE
Thunder Bay Border Cats Game
Summer baseball game at Port Arthur Stadium
Port Arthur Stadium – 420 Lisgar Street
1:35 pm
$ Ticketed
Lies and Legends – The Musical Stories of Harry Chapin
Outdoor theatrical concert featuring the music and stories of Harry Chapin
Magnus Theatre Outdoor Stage – 10 Algoma Street South
2:00 pm–~3:30 pm
$ FREE
Home of the Day
2980 King George’s Park Dr
(Realtors if you want your home featured - send us an email: [email protected])
3 bedrooms
2 bathrooms
1,760 sqft
$769,900
Whitewater home built in 2023.
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