January 1st, 2020 marks the 50th anniversary of the cities of Fort William, Port Arthur and towns of Neebing and McIntyre merging to create Thunder Bay. City Council received an update on the preparations staff are conducting behind the scenes in the lead up to the big day.
City spokesperson Cynthia Olsen says Tourism Thunder Bay wants to find locals to promote how great Thunder Bay is. “They are looking at having ambassadors to encourage residents to invite family and friends back home. They are also working on creating a package to help residents be better ambassadors when they do have visitors staying with them.”
Officials hope to get the Snowbirds to come and take part in a homecoming event during a Live on the Waterfront. City officials add they will be opening a 50-year-old time capsule on New Years Day during a toast to the Queen. Staff will also be working on creating a new time capsule that will reflect Thunder Bay in 2020.
City Clerk Krista Power stressed the anniversary is historically important. Council was interested in getting past members to return to take part in the festivities. City staff will be coming back to update the council on potential “legacy” projects that will reflect the 50th anniversary.
