Thunder Bay Daily News | Friday, September 19, 2025

Lead: Today's local news covers municipal construction progress, public service launches, community gathering previews, and judicial updates. The demolition of Victoriaville Mall is in its final stages, gradually restoring street space; the new wheeled garbage carts begin their first rollout next week; police and courts report the latest developments in an arson/assault-on-officer case and a child pornography case; the big weekend fan convention ThunderCon will take place at the CLE venue, while on the business side, FedNor's (Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario) "Tariff Response Initiative" is now open for applications.

City Hall (Municipal & Policy)

Victoriaville Mall Demolition Winding Down

Time and location: September 19, 2025, Victoriaville Mall (Thunder Bay south core, Brodie Street area)

Key information: Demolition of remaining structures is progressing; with the historic obstruction removed, sightlines along the street are being restored. The next phase shifts to site preparation and restoration of road/pedestrian spaces; temporary traffic arrangements will be adjusted according to construction progress.

New Wheeled Garbage Carts Roll Out in Phases Starting Monday

Time and location: September 19, 2025, Thunder Bay

Key information: Starting Monday, September 22, approximately one-quarter of residential neighborhoods will be the first to use the new wheeled garbage carts. Households that have received carts must place them out on their scheduled collection days; areas not yet covered will be phased in according to plan. The city will publish placement and collection guidelines.

City Police (Public Safety & Enforcement)

Man Accused of Setting Own Car on Fire and Assaulting Officer Remanded in Custody

Time and location: September 19, 2025, Thunder Bay

Key information: The suspect is accused of igniting his own vehicle and assaulting a police officer during the response. He appeared in court yesterday and was ordered to remain in custody; a future court date will be set. Agency involved: TBPS (Thunder Bay Police Service).

Safety Reminder: Increased Risk of Black Bears "Entering Town"

Time and location: September 19, 2025, Thunder Bay and nearby suburbs

Key information: Bear sightings this summer are more frequent than usual. Residents should properly manage "attractants" (kitchen waste, birdseed, pet food, barbecue residue, and fallen fruit). At night, pay attention to doors, windows, and yard lighting. For threatening behavior, contact the OPP (Ontario Provincial Police) or report to the MNRF (Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry) as directed.

Courts & Justice

Defendant Denies "Making Child Pornography" but Pleads Guilty to Related Charges

Time and location: September 19, 2025, Thunder Bay Courthouse

Key information: A two-day court proceeding in a child pornography case has concluded. The defendant pleaded not guilty to "making child pornography" but admitted to several charges related to possession/distribution. The court will decide on sentencing at a later date based on the facts and sentencing recommendations.

Community & Events

"Draw the Line" Rally Tomorrow at Noon

Time and location: September 20, 2025, 12:00 PM, Red River Road (outside the federal MP's office)

Key information: Several community organizations have issued a notice for tomorrow's rally, addressing local and federal public policy issues. Peaceful expression and road safety are advocated; participants must follow on-site public order guidelines.

Labour Groups Rally Outside MPP's Office

Time and location: September 19, 2025, Thunder Bay

Key information: Local unions and supporters are calling for a "fair deal" and opposing the trend toward privatization of public services, expressing demands for wages and job security. Police remind the public to be mindful of pedestrian safety and vehicle traffic during the event.

Business & Economy

FedNor's "Regional Tariff Response Initiative" Now Open for Applications

Time and location: September 19, 2025, Thunder Bay / Northern Ontario

Key information: A relief channel is open for manufacturing and supply chain businesses affected by tariffs, supporting cost buffers, production stability, and job retention. Applications must include business qualifications, a description of the impact, and expected project outcomes; funds will be disbursed in stages after review.

Regional Chamber's "Leaders Luncheon" Focuses on NWMO

Time and location: September 19, 2025, Northwestern Ontario

Key information: Attendees discussed the NWMO (Nuclear Waste Management Organization) project progress, Indigenous participation, supply chain opportunities, and regulatory processes, providing information for regional businesses to assess medium- and long-term opportunities.

Education & Health

Oshki-Wenjack RPN Pinning Ceremony

Time and location: September 19, 2025, Thunder Bay

Key information: The college held a pinning ceremony for new RPNs (Registered Practical Nurses). Graduates will enter the regional frontline healthcare system, helping to alleviate pressure on frontline nursing staff.

Sports & Culture

ThunderCon 2025 This Weekend

Time and location: September 21-22, 2025 (subject to organizer's announcement), Canadian Lakehead Exhibition (Coliseum / Heritage Buildings)

Key information: The fan convention features exhibitors and interactive activities, suitable for families and university students. It is recommended to check ticket and entry requirements in advance, and plan parking and bus transfers. Evening side events are held at downtown venues; plan your return trip safely.

Gas Prices & Daily Services

Today's "Cheapest Gas in Town"

Time and location: September 19, 2025, Thunder Bay

Key information: K&A Variety & Gas Bar (684 City Rd.) is showing $1.18/L at the pump (subject to change at any time). For public services (library/pool/park/transit), any temporary adjustments will be posted on the day's announcements and on-site notices.

Weather & Transit

Mostly Cloudy to Partly Sunny, Feels Cool

Time and location: September 19, 2025, Thunder Bay

Key information: Cool during the day, turning colder at night, with possible isolated light showers. Allow 10-15 minutes of extra travel time during peak commutes; construction zones such as Arthur Street may have lane reductions and slow traffic.

News Briefs

A Lotto Max secondary prize was won in the city, with a single ticket prize of $89,171. Winners are reminded to verify and claim their prizes on time.

Picking mushrooms in conservation areas and protected lands is illegal; authorities will increase patrols and enforcement.

A youth from Current River returned a lost watch, sparking a series of good deeds, and received public thanks from the school and community.

Tomorrow's Reminders

The "Draw the Line" rally is scheduled for tomorrow at noon on Red River Road; plan your bus and parking routes in advance. Communities starting the new wheeled garbage carts on September 22 should place and sort carts according to city instructions to avoid missed collections.