Weekly Digest (1/5 - 1/11)
Respiratory Illness Surge Affects WAHA Emergency Departments
Date: 2025-01-05
The Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA) has reported an increase in patient visits to its emergency departments, attributed to a surge in respiratory illnesses. The facilities affected include the Weeneebayko General Hospital in Moose Factory, Moosonee Health Centre, Fort Albany Hospital, and Attawapiskat Hospital.
WAHA advises residents to avoid public gatherings if they are feeling unwell. The health authority also recommends wearing masks and washing hands frequently for those experien
Ontario Allocates $9 Million for Long-Term Care Training and Equipment
Date: 2025-01-07
The Ontario government is allocating $9 million to enhance skin and wound care training for up to 400 staff members in long-term care homes. This initiative is part of the "Your Health" plan, which aims to improve access to care for residents.
The funding will also be used to equip long-term care homes with diagnostic tools to aid in resident care. According to the Ontario government, this investment is expected to help reduce unnecessary visits to emergency departments and hospital stays.
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Timmins Issues Extreme Cold Weather Alert
Date: 2025-01-07
The City of Timmins has issued an extreme cold weather alert for January 6, 2025. Residents should prepare for temperatures to fall to -32 degrees Celsius, factoring in wind chill.
Such extreme cold can lead to health risks like frostbite and hypothermia. Residents are advised to minimize wind exposure, dress in layers, and cover exposed skin.
Emergency shelter is available at 316 Spruce St. S. for those in need. The City of Timmins urges residents to stay informed and take necessary precaut
Arrests Made in Connection to Timmins Break and Enters
Date: 2025-01-07
The Timmins Police Service’s Criminal Investigation Division has made progress in addressing a series of break and enters at business locations near the downtown core. A search warrant was executed at a residential address, leading to the recovery of stolen items, including electronics, photography equipment, copper cable, food, and clothing.
Cameron Blueboy, a resident of Timmins, has been arrested and charged in connection with these incidents. He faces a total of 60 charges, including Break
Timmins Issues Extreme Cold Weather Alert
Date: 2025-01-07
The City of Timmins has issued an extreme cold weather alert for January 7, 2025. According to the city's announcement, temperatures are expected to drop to -38°C overnight, factoring in wind chill.
The city warns that exposure to these extreme cold temperatures can lead to serious health issues such as frostbite and hypothermia. Residents are advised to take precautions, including avoiding wind exposure, dressing in warm layers, and covering exposed skin.
Emergency shelter is available for
July 2024 Electric Power Selling Price Index Released
Date: 2025-01-07
Statistics Canada has released the Electric Power Selling Price Index (2014=100) for July 2024. This index tracks the price variations in electricity sales by distributors to commercial and industrial users across Canada.
The data is available for Canada, as well as by region and province. Statistics Canada notes that data for the previous 12 months may have been revised. The index is not seasonally adjusted, meaning it does not account for seasonal fluctuations in electricity prices.
This i
Smooth Rock Falls Receives $50,000 from Gemini-SRF Power Corporation
Date: 2025-01-08
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls has received a $50,000 contribution from Gemini-SRF Power Corporation. This contribution is part of an ongoing annual support initiative aimed at funding capital projects and purchases within the municipality.
The funds provided by Gemini-SRF Power Corporation are intended to assist in various municipal projects, although specific allocations for this year's contribution have not been disclosed. This financial support continues to be a part of the collaborative ef
Ontario Announces New Energy Efficiency Programs with $10.9 Billion Plan
Date: 2025-01-08
The Ontario government has announced the introduction of new energy efficiency programs, including the Home Renovation Savings Program, which will commence on January 28, 2025. This initiative is part of a $10.9 billion investment over 12 years aimed at improving energy efficiency across the province.
The Home Renovation Savings Program will provide rebates of up to 30% for homeowners who undertake energy efficiency renovations. Eligible upgrades include the installation of new windows, doors,
City Installs Solar-Powered Parking Meters
Date: 2025-01-08
The City’s Traffic and Enforcement Services Departments have started the installation of solar-powered parking meters. This initiative aims to replace outdated equipment and assets. Currently, the new meters are located in the City Hall parking lot and along the west side of Pine St. The project is expected to continue over the next several years, updating the city's parking infrastructure.
Highlights from Smooth Rock Falls Council Meeting on January 6, 2025
Date: 2025-01-08
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls held its regular council meeting on January 6th, 2025, at the Town Hall. During the meeting, Neil Brady from Schooley Mitchell presented cost-saving measures for municipal services.
Key decisions made by the council included:
- Surplus Property Declaration: The property at 251 Highway 11 was declared surplus, and a Request for Proposal will be prepared for its sale.
- Fire Chief’s Quarterly Report: The council accepted the report c
Timmins Police Seek Assistance in Locating Missing Person Braden L.
Date: 2025-01-08
The Timmins Police Service is asking for the public's help in finding Braden L., who has been reported missing. Details about Braden L.'s last known location or description have not been disclosed.
Anyone with information that could assist in locating Braden L. is urged to contact the Timmins Police Service at 705-264-1201.
Summer Employment Opportunities in Smooth Rock Falls
Date: 2025-01-08
Smooth Rock Falls is offering seasonal employment opportunities for the summer. Available positions include roles in the Public Works Department, such as General Labourers, and positions for Aquatic Services Coordinators and Lifeguards. These roles are open to individuals who are motivated and dependable, with a focus on serving the community.
The General Labourer position involves assisting regular Public Works employees with various summer projects and maintenance tasks around the municipali
Smooth Rock Falls Hiring Lifeguards for Public Pool
Date: 2025-01-08
Smooth Rock Falls is currently seeking individuals to fill the roles of Lifeguards/Aquatics Instructors at the local public pool. These positions are crucial for maintaining a safe environment for all pool users.
The primary duties of Lifeguards/Aquatics Instructors include monitoring the pool area, preventing accidents, and performing rescue operations when necessary. Additionally, they are responsible for educating the public on safe swimming practices and engaging in public relations to pro
Security Screening Initiated at Timmins Airport for Thunder Airlines and Air Creebec
Date: 2025-01-08
Starting January 20, 2025, passengers flying with Thunder Airlines and Air Creebec will undergo security screening at Timmins Victor M. Power Airport (YTS). This service is being introduced following a request from the Mushkegowuk Council. The screening process will cover checked baggage, passengers, and all carry-on baggage and personal items, as announced by the Timmins local government.
Timmins Fire Department to Conduct Ice Rescue Training on Pearl Lake
Date: 2025-01-09
The Timmins Fire Department has announced plans to conduct ice water rescue training on Pearl Lake during the week of January 13, 2025. This training is part of the department's routine preparedness activities.
Barricades have been installed around areas of open water on Pearl Lake as of January 8, 2025. Residents are advised to steer clear of these areas for safety reasons.
The Timmins Fire Department emphasizes the importance of public safety and requests that residents adhere to the advis
Smooth Rock Falls Announces Summer Job Opportunities
Date: 2025-01-09
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls is currently offering summer employment opportunities for several positions, including Aquatic Services Coordinator, Lifeguards, and Public Works roles. These positions are intended for individuals interested in gaining work experience within the community.
Interested applicants are advised to submit their resumes to the Town of Smooth Rock Falls. Further details regarding the application process can be accessed on the town's official website.
Extreme Cold Weather Alert Issued for Timmins on January 8, 2025
Date: 2025-01-09
The City of Timmins has issued an extreme cold weather alert for January 8, 2025. Temperatures are forecasted to drop to -36 degrees Celsius, including wind chill, according to city officials.
Residents are advised to take precautions against the cold, which can lead to frostbite and hypothermia. Recommendations include avoiding wind exposure, dressing in warm layers, and covering exposed skin.
For those needing emergency shelter, assistance is available at 316 Spruce St. S. The City of Timm
Timmins Police Request Help in Search for Missing Person Chloe L.
Date: 2025-01-09
The Timmins Police Service is requesting public assistance in locating Chloe L., who has been reported missing. Specific details about Chloe's last known whereabouts or a physical description have not been disclosed by the police.
Residents in Timmins and the surrounding Northeast Ontario area are encouraged to provide any information that could assist in locating Chloe. The Timmins Police Service has asked that anyone with relevant information contact them directly.
Timmins Police Request Public Help in Locating Missing Person
Date: 2025-01-09
The Timmins Police Service is requesting assistance from the public in locating a missing person named Dean. Dean was last seen in the Timmins area, and the circumstances of his disappearance are currently under investigation.
The police are urging anyone with information that could help in locating Dean to come forward. Residents with relevant details are encouraged to contact the Timmins Police Service.
Canada Introduces CPP Benefit for Part-Time Students
Date: 2025-01-09
The Canadian government has introduced a new benefit under the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) for part-time students. Announced by Minister of Seniors, Joanne Thompson, the benefit will be available from January 1, 2025, to part-time students aged 18 to 24 whose parents are deceased or disabled and have contributed to the CPP.
Eligible students will receive 50 percent of the benefit amount provided to full-time students. For the year 2025, this equates to a monthly flat rate of $150.89. Students mu
Timmins Police Request Public Assistance in Locating Missing Person Nevaeh S.
Date: 2025-01-10
The Timmins Police Service is seeking public assistance in locating Nevaeh S., who has been reported missing. Nevaeh was last seen in the Timmins area, and authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.
The police have provided a contact number for tips or information related to Nevaeh's whereabouts. Residents are encouraged to reach out to the Timmins Police Service if they have any relevant details that could aid in the search.
This request for public assistance is part of
Timmins Police Conclude December 2024 Festive RIDE Program
Date: 2025-01-10
The Timmins Police Service has completed its Festive RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) program for December 2024. During this initiative, officers checked 670 vehicles.
The program involved 181 Approved Screening Device demands. As a result, five drivers received three-day suspensions for having a Blood Alcohol Concentration over 50 mg per 100 ml of blood. Additionally, two charges were laid under the Highway Traffic Act.
Further enforcement actions included two charges under the Can
Smooth Rock Falls Declares January as Alzheimer Awareness Month
Date: 2025-01-10
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls has officially declared January 2025 as National Alzheimer Awareness Month. This initiative is intended to increase awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia within the community.
According to the Alzheimer Society, more than 733,040 Canadians are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease, with projections suggesting this number could rise to nearly 1 million by 2031. The Alzheimer Society Cochrane-Temiskaming is actively involved in providin
Smooth Rock Falls Proclaims January 2025 as Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
Date: 2025-01-10
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls has declared January 2025 as Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. This initiative is intended to increase awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory and cognitive function, primarily impacting individuals over the age of 65, though it can also affect younger adults.
According to the proclamation, more than 733,040 Canadians are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease, with projections
Ontario Launches Fortress Am-Can to Enhance Energy Exports to the U.S.
Date: 2025-01-10
Ontario has introduced the Fortress Am-Can initiative, a project designed to enhance the energy and electricity grid between Canada and the United States. The initiative aims to increase the export of Canadian energy to the U.S. by utilizing Ontario's nuclear power resources and developing new infrastructure.
Key components of the project include the use of Ontario's nuclear power plants and small modular nuclear reactors. The initiative also plans to develop and reinforce electricity transmis
Special Council Meeting Set for September 5th in Matheson
Date: 2025-01-10
The Township of Black River-Matheson has scheduled a special council meeting for Thursday, September 5th, 2024, at 6:00 PM. The meeting will take place in the Council Chambers at the Town Hall in Matheson. The agenda includes reviewing draft policies such as the Code of Conduct for Council Members and Members of Local Boards, the Code of Conduct Complaint Protocol for Members of Council, and the Council and Staff Relations Policy.
Additionally, the meeting will feature a closed session as per
Statistics Canada Reports 23,000 New Jobs in Ontario for December
Date: 2025-01-11
Statistics Canada reported that Ontario added 23,000 jobs in December. This increase contributes to a total of over 200,000 jobs created in the province throughout 2024.
Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, commented on the employment figures, acknowledging the province's job growth over the past year. The data reflects the employment trends as documented by Statistics Canada.
Liberal Party of Canada Sets Leadership Vote for March 9
Date: 2025-01-11
The Liberal Party of Canada has announced that its leadership vote will take place on March 9. This announcement was made by Sachit Mehra, the President of the Liberal Party of Canada.
Mehra stated, "The Liberal Party of Canada will choose a new leader on March 9." He also encouraged members of the party to engage in discussions and debates to shape the future of the party.
The leadership vote is a significant event for the party as it prepares for upcoming political challenges.
Canadian Payroll Employment Increases by 32,800 in July 2024
Date: 2025-01-11
Statistics Canada reports that payroll employment in Canada rose by 32,800 jobs in July 2024, reflecting a 0.2% increase after a decline in June. Over the past year, payroll employment has grown by 157,700 jobs, or 0.9%.
The health care and social assistance sector led the growth with an addition of 17,600 jobs, marking a 0.7% increase. Public administration added 8,000 jobs, a 0.6% rise, while retail trade saw a slight increase of 2,300 jobs, or 0.1%.
In contrast, the manufacturing sector e