THUNDER BAY – Another summer event has moved into a virtual event due to COVID-19. The Coronavirus has taken the wind out of the sails of many events in 2020.
The City of Thunder Bay announced late on May 7, 2020, that, “In response to Provincial orders and physical distancing mandates, the City’s Canada Day celebrations and Live on the Waterfront programming will be delivered virtually this summer.
“With the public’s safety being top priority, event staff are planning innovative ways of delivering events without encouraging the large gatherings that typically occur with events of this scale.
“Anticipated virtual event components include performances, follow-along family-friendly activities, and messages from dignitaries and sponsors. Event details will be communicated leading up to event dates and in the City’s annual Summer Events Guide.”
“Our special events like Canada Day and Live on the Waterfront usually see our community coming together to celebrate and showcase culture on a grand scale,” said Louisa Costanzo, Supervisor – Cultural Development & Events “While it will look different this year, the goal is to put together an exciting lineup of talent and activities that residents can watch and do safely from their homes.”
Limited Marina Operations Begin May 15
The Marina will begin limited operations allowed under current provincial emergency orders beginning May 15. Fuel services will be available daily from 9 am – 5 pm. Boaters will be allowed to bring their boats into the Marina, but only for the purpose of docking their boats and completing start of year maintenance. As recreational boating is currently prohibited, activities such as sitting on your boat for relaxation, socializing, etc. are not permitted at this time.
City Golf Course Maintenance Ongoing, Golfing Still Prohibited
At Chapples Golf Course and Strathcona Golf Course, basic golf course maintenance has been ongoing this spring and we are staffing up to get the courses ready, however; at this time golfing is prohibited under the provincial order and the courses remain closed.
Once emergency orders restricting operations have been lifted by the Province, we will be in a better position to open the Marina for recreational boaters, and open the Golf Courses to the public. However, operations will have to be in accordance with any remaining restrictions on gathering sizes, physical distancing, and shared amenities. As well, operations will have to be in compliance with any advice, recommendations, and instructions of public health officials, including cleaning and disinfecting.