ISSUE #122

Good morning,

Quick correct last week - I said the international run was at Centennial, it’s actually at Boulevard - my apologies!

In today’s issue, we cover:

• Ford says no to US booze

• Daily Poll - Do you miss it? 

• Bear hunting violations  

• Police investigate crash

• More library availability

• Chippewa season comes to an end

• Police seek suspect in stabbing

• Things to do this week 🗓️

• House of the day - Superior water front home! 🏡

- Marcus Luft

Trade

Doug Ford says Ontario ban on U.S. booze to stay until trade deal is reached

Ontario Premier Doug Ford says American-made alcohol will remain off LCBO shelves until Washington lifts its tariffs on Canadian goods or Ottawa signs a new trade arrangement with the U.S. F

ord, speaking in Inglewood, reiterated that he prefers a negotiated deal but won’t “get a bad deal,” and that without movement from the American side, “they aren’t getting any booze on our shelves.”

Ontario pulled U.S. products in March following U.S. tariffs; while Ottawa recently removed its retaliatory 25% levy on U.S. alcohol, industry groups say that won’t matter until provinces restore shelf space. The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States called the tariff rollback a “positive sign,” but warned that the provincial pullback is still hurting distillers and consumers.

Spirits Canada has likewise urged a return of U.S. products, citing an overall sales decline since March, even as the province reported gains for Canadian-made alcohol and VQA wine during the period.

Ford suggested existing U.S. stock already in Ontario is months away from expiring.

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).

Recreation

$64K in fines issued for bear-hunting violations

Five tourist outfitting businesses in Northwestern Ontario have been fined a combined $64,000 for black bear–hunting violations, following a series of cases concluded in Kenora and Red Lake.

According to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, Timberlane Lodge of Ear Falls pleaded guilty to unlawfully selling and issuing non-resident black bear hunting validation certificates and was fined $17,500. Canada North Lodge received the largest penalty—$23,000—after pleading guilty to buying validation certificates and hunting bears without a licence. Little Canada Camp Inc. and Rocky Shores Adventures were fined $12,000 and $10,000, respectively, for similar offences.

Separately, Kabeelo Lodge was found guilty at trial of violating licence conditions related to providing bear-hunting services and was fined $1,500.

The ministry disclosed the outcomes, which span decisions in 2024 and 2025, as part of an enforcement update aimed at deterring illegal outfitting practices that undermine regulated wildlife management.

Police

Police investigate serious May Street crash

Thunder Bay Police are investigating a two-vehicle collision involving a pickup truck and an SUV at May and Finlayson streets that sent at least one person to hospital.

The Monday late-morning crash damaged a corner building, according to a bystander. Another witness told media a vehicle had been pulled over by police moments before attempting to flee and striking the other vehicle—details police have not confirmed.

Authorities closed sections of May Street from Northern Avenue south to Dease Street, along with adjacent streets, while the investigation continued; the closure lasted until about 8:30 p.m.

The OPP K-9 unit and tactical officers were seen in the wider area, including on Wiley Street, as police asked the public to avoid the scene. Officials have not released information on potential charges or the number of people treated beyond the initial report of at least one injured person transported for care.

Community

Two library branches reopen on Sundays

The Thunder Bay Public Library has switched to fall hours and will once again offer Sunday service at two locations.

Waverley and Mary J.L. Black branches will open on Sundays through June 2026, complementing the extended weekday evening hours introduced earlier this year.

The return of Sunday programming is part of the seasonal shift, with activities scheduled at both branches as the library ramps up fall and winter offerings. Patrons can check exact hours and event listings on the library’s website.

The change restores weekend access that many families and students rely on during the school year, while retaining the longer weekday windows that accommodate after-work and after-school visits.

Library officials framed the move as a balance between access and resources following adjustments made earlier in the year.

Recreation

Chippewa Park season comes to an end

Rides at Chippewa Park wrapped for the season on Monday, though the campground is expected to remain open until the end of September. Parks operations supervisor Tom Forsythe said the summer was “pretty good,” with attendance feeling higher than last year despite a July storm that briefly disrupted operations.

A major change is coming to the historic carousel: this was the last season with an exterior ride component, as the carousel is slated to be moved indoors, attached to the pavilion, and made wheelchair accessible.

Construction drawings are being finalized, with foundation work anticipated soon; the goal is to have the carousel ready for the next season, targeting late May 2026. Forsythe noted the project is coming in under budget and that staff will begin disassembling rides within a week to prepare.

Weddings at the pavilion will continue into the fall, capping a successful event season alongside the park’s summer attractions.

Indigenous

Police seek suspect in stabbing

Nishnawbe Aski Police Service is asking for the public’s help identifying a masked suspect after a man was seriously injured in an early-morning stabbing in Eabametoong First Nation.

Police say they were alerted just before 3:30 a.m. Sunday to an assault at the community baseball field. The victim, an adult male, suffered stab wounds and was first treated at the nursing station before being transported to Thunder Bay for further care; his injuries are described as serious.

Investigators report the assailant—believed to be an adult male dressed in black and wearing a ski mask—approached the victim near a trail along the third-base line around 3 a.m., chased him, and then fled on foot after the assault.

Anyone with information is urged to call 807-242-8561 or submit an anonymous tip via Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.

Things to do This Week

Events In and Around the City

September 3

PIEROGI DAYS!!!
Weekly Polish comfort-food pickup (pierogi, cabbage rolls & more).
When: 9:00 am–4:30 pm
Where: Polish Combatants’ Association Br. #1, 209 N. Cumberland St
Cost/Age: Menu pricing; all ages; drop-in

Opportunity Bridal — Wedding Dress Sale (Pop-Up)
One-day bridal pop-up with 600+ new gowns & accessories.
When: 3:00–9:00 pm
Where: Ramada by Wyndham Thunder Bay Airlane Hotel, 698 Arthur St W
Cost/Age: Free entry; all ages

Bingo at The Outpost (All Ages)
Campus-pub bingo with prizes from local businesses.
When: 4:00 pm
Where: The Outpost (Lakehead U), 955 Oliver Rd
Cost/Age: Free; all ages

Name That Tune — Sleeping Giant Brewing Co.
Music-trivia night at the brewery.
When: 7:00–9:00 pm (sign-up from ~6:15 pm)
Where: Sleeping Giant Brewing Co., 712 Macdonell St
Cost/Age: Free; all ages welcome

Danny Johnson’s Piano Bar — Shooters Tavern
Thunder Bay’s piano-man residency: sing-alongs & classics.
When: 8:00 pm
Where: Shooters Tavern, 377 Memorial Ave
Cost/Age: No cover noted; 19+ typical

September 4

Europa Super Circus (Opening Night)
Big-top touring circus under the CLE grounds
When: 7:00–8:30 pm
Where: Canadian Lakehead Exhibition, 425 Northern Ave
Cost/Age: ~$18–$60, all ages

Back to the Pub Bash – Night 1 (All Ages)
Five local bands launch a 3-night rock showcase
When: Doors 7:30 pm; first set 8:00 pm
Where: Black Pirates Pub, 215 Red River Rd
Cost/Age: $15, all ages

Open Mic Night – Lakehead Beer Co.
Singer/songwriter & jam night in the taproom
When: 7:00–10:00 pm (sign-up on site)
Where: Lakehead Beer Co., 206 Park Ave
Cost/Age: Free entry, all ages welcome

Karaoke Every Thursday – Bar Polonia
Community karaoke at the Polish Combatants’ Association
When: 8:00–11:00 pm
Where: 209 N. Cumberland St (Bar Polonia)
Cost/Age: By donation, all ages welcome

Let’s Talk: Thunder Bay Transit (Lakehead U – Intl. Students)
How to use local transit—routes, passes, tips
When: 2:00–3:00 pm
Where: International Student Lounge (Chancellor Paterson Library, ground floor)
Cost/Age: Free; geared to Lakehead international students

Play Day – County Park LibraryDrop-in family play with toys & activities (ages 4+)
When: 1:00–7:00 pm
Where: County Park Library, Children’s Area
Cost/Age: Free; families with children 4+

Blissful Beading – County Park Library
Casual drop-in beading table
When: 3:00–7:30 pm
Where: County Park Library, Outreach Table
Cost/Age: Free; supplies provided

Metre Eaters Thursday Group Run (Fresh Air)
Social 5k group run—newcomers welcome
When: 6:00–7:00 pm
Where: Fresh Air, 710 Balmoral St
Cost/Age: Free; all paces

September 5

Mayor’s Mulligan (PRO Kids Fundraiser)
City charity golf tournament presented by Enbridge
When: Shotgun start 11:30 am
Where: Strathcona Golf Course, 500 Hodder Ave
Cost/Age: Team registration required

Europa Super Circus (Two Shows)
International circus spectacular under the big top
When: 4:30–6:00 pm and 7:30–9:00 pm
Where: Canadian Lakehead Exhibition, 425 Northern Ave
Cost/Age: ~$18–$60, all ages

Family Fun Night Movie: Lilo & Stitch (2025)
Back-to-school family movie with popcorn
When: Doors 5:30 pm (until ~8:30 pm)
Where: North McIntyre Rec Centre, 2051 Government Rd
Cost/Age: Low-cost; registration required

Jazz & Old-Fashioned Fridays ft. Mood Indigo
Live jazz trio with cocktails at Anchor & Ore
When: 6:00–9:00 pm
Where: Anchor & Ore (Delta Hotels), 2240 Sleeping Giant Pkwy
Cost/Age: Restaurant reservations recommended

The Green Mandolin (Urban Abbey)
Evening of Celtic mandolin music & song (fundraiser)
When: 7:00–9:00 pm
Where: Urban Abbey, 308 Red River Rd
Cost/Age: $20 adults; kids under 12 free

Bar Polonia – Fridays Live Music
Weekly live band night in the Polish Combatants’ hall
When: 8:00–11:00 pm
Where: 209 N. Cumberland St
Cost/Age: $10 cover; all welcome

Live Band Karaoke – Red Lion Smokehouse
Front a real band and sing your favourites
When: 9:00 pm
Where: Red Lion Smokehouse, 16 Cumberland St S
Cost/Age: Venue cover may apply; 19+ after 9 pm

Back to the Pub – Night 2
Local rock showcase continues (four bands)
When: Doors 9:00 pm; first set 10:00 pm
Where: Black Pirates Pub, 215 Red River Rd
Cost/Age: $10; 19+

Hard Copy (Live at The Wayland)
Late-night cover band set in Westfort
When: 10:00 pm
Where: Wayland Bar & Grill, 1019 Gore St W
Cost/Age: $5; 19+

Neon Wild Party – Welcome Back Concert (Johnny Rivex)
Country-EDM campus party with glowsticks
When: 9:00 pm–2:00 am
Where: The Outpost (Lakehead U), 955 Oliver Rd

September 6

Wake the Giant Music Festival (Headliners: Black Eyed Peas, Prozzäk, more)
Inclusive waterfront festival with main stage, Indigenous craft market & food vendors.
When: Gates 11:00 am (music through evening)
Where: Marina Park / Waterfront (Sleeping Giant Pkwy)
Cost/Age: Ticketed; all ages

Europa Super Circus (Multiple Shows)
Touring big-top circus featuring aerialists, tight-wire & FMX “Wheel of Death.”When: 1:30–3:00 pm, 4:30–6:00 pm, 7:30–9:00 pm
Where: Under the Big Top — Canadian Lakehead Exhibition, 425 Northern Ave
Cost/Age: ~$18–$60; all ages

Consortium Aurora Borealis: “A Cello Celebration!” (Classical Concert)
All-Italian program with cellists Peter Cosbey & Marc Palmquist.
When: 7:30–9:30 pm (doors 7:00 pm)
Where: St. Paul’s United Church, 349 Waverley St
Cost/Age: $25 adults / $15 students; 11 & under free

Vinyl Saturdays — Red Lion Smokehouse
Afternoon/evening vinyl session in the restaurant bar.
When: 3:00–9:00 pm
Where: Red Lion Smokehouse, 16 Cumberland St S
Cost/Age: Free entry; all ages until 9 pm

Patio Latin Party — On The Links
Latin night outdoors with salsa, bachata, merengue & more.
When: 9:00 pm–1:00 am
Where: On The Links, 1181 Golf Links Rd
Cost/Age: Tickets from ~$12; 19+

Back to the Pub — Night 3 (Local Rock Showcase)
Final night of the 3-night series (four bands).
When: Doors 9:00 pm; first set 10:00 pm
Where: Black Pirates Pub, 215 Red River Rd
Cost/Age: $10; 19+

September 7

Take It In Strides Run (5K/10K & 3K Walk)
Community run/walk for suicide-prevention awareness & fundraising.
When: Check-in 8:30 am; run/walk starts 9:30 am
Where: Boulevard Lake (main stage area), 400 Lyon Blvd W
Cost/Age: Registration required; all ages

West Thunder 9th Annual Corn Roast & Vendors Market
Family-friendly community corn roast with 20+ vendors, live entertainment & activities.
When: 11:00 am–3:00 pm
Where: West Thunder Community Centre, 915 Edward St S
Cost/Age: Free; all ages

Family Art Days (Thunder Bay Art Gallery)
Drop-in, hands-on art making for all ages.
When: 1:00–4:00 pm
Where: Thunder Bay Art Gallery, 1080 Keewatin St
Cost/Age: Free; all ages

Europa Super Circus — Final Day (Two Shows)
Touring big-top circus with aerialists, tight-wire & FMX “Wheel of Death.”
When: 1:30–3:00 pm & 4:30–6:00 pm
Where: Under the Big Top — Canadian Lakehead Exhibition, 425 Northern Ave
Cost/Age: Ticketed; all ages

Female Boarder Collective — Sunday Skate Session
Inclusive skate morning; instruction & gear available.
When: 10:00 am–12:00 pm
Where: Cinema 5 Skatepark (indoors)
Cost/Age: $5 donation suggested; all ages

Home of the Day

1223 Grandview Beach Rd.

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

4 bedrooms
4 bathrooms
3,910 sqft

$1,499,000

Panoramic beach-front Lake Superior views.