Weekly Digest (2/16 - 2/22)
Emergency Watermain Maintenance Onset Affects Lovers Lane in Timmins
Date: 2025-02-16
The City of Timmins' Environmental Services Department has commenced an emergency repair on a watermain located on Lovers Lane, between Haileybury Crescent and Percival Street. The repair work began at around 1:30 p.m. Residents in the area are advised that they may experience temporary water disruptions, including loss of water, decreased water pressure, and water discoloration during the repair period. As of now, there is no specified timeframe for the completion of these repairs. Residents ar
60th Anniversary of the National Flag of Canada Celebrated
Date: 2025-02-16
February 15, 2025, marks the 60th anniversary of the National Flag of Canada, first raised on this date in 1965 on Parliament Hill. The flag, recognized by its red maple leaf, is a prominent symbol of Canada globally.
Minister St-Onge commemorated the occasion, reflecting on the flag's history and its status as a representation of Canada since its inauguration. This celebration highlights the flag's enduring presence as a part of Canada's identity.
The design of the flag, featuring a stylize
Emergency Repairs on Eyre Blvd. Watermain in Timmins
Date: 2025-02-18
The Environmental Services Department of the City of Timmins has announced emergency watermain repairs are taking place on Eyre Blvd., specifically between Westmount and Jubilee. This work is set to commence at 10:00 a.m.
During the repair process, residents in the affected area may experience disruptions such as temporary loss of their water supply, reduced water pressure, and changes in water color. The City of Timmins advises that there is no estimated completion time at present, and reside
Canada Launches Online Hub to Assist New Parents
Date: 2025-02-18
The Government of Canada has announced the launch of the Welcoming a Child Hub, an online portal designed to support parents who are starting or expanding their families. The announcement was made by Terry Beech, the Minister of Citizens' Services. This resource aims to provide information on the services and benefits available to new parents in Canada, covering families expanding through birth, surrogacy, or adoption.
The hub is expected to offer comprehensive resources to address the common
Timmins Police Respond to Gunfire Reports near Pine Street
Date: 2025-02-19
On February 15, 2025, the Timmins Police Service responded to reports of gunfire in the vicinity of Pine Street and Sixth Avenue. According to the Timmins Police, these reports prompted an investigation handled by their Criminal Investigation Division.
Officers arrived at the scene to secure the area and conducted a canvass as part of the ongoing investigation. As of now, no additional details about suspects or the motive have been provided.
The Timmins Police request assistance from the pub
Recall Issued for Vaaniy Foods Porotta Due to Undeclared Milk
Date: 2025-02-19
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced a recall for Vaaniy Foods brand Frozen Porotta Catering Pack. This decision was made because the product contains milk, which is not declared on the label, posing a potential health risk to consumers with milk allergies or sensitivities.
Consumers in Ontario and other parts of Canada who have purchased this product are advised to avoid consuming it. The packaging does not indicate the presence of milk, which could potentially cause aller
Police in Timmins Seek Public Aid to Locate Missing Aliya
Date: 2025-02-19
The Timmins Police Service is requesting assistance from the public in locating a missing person named Aliya. Aliya was last observed in the city of Timmins, located in Northeast Ontario. The Timmins Police have asked anyone with pertinent information to contact them directly.
Extreme Cold Weather Alert for February 18, 2025, in Northeast Ontario
Date: 2025-02-19
Local authorities have issued an extreme cold weather alert effective Tuesday, February 18, 2025, for communities across the Northeast of Ontario. Residents are warned to prepare for temperatures potentially dropping to -28°C, including the wind chill factor.
Health officials highlight the serious risks of frostbite and hypothermia associated with such extreme cold conditions. They recommend limiting wind exposure, wearing layers of warm clothing, and covering any exposed skin to prevent these
Police Request Public Assistance in Timmins Break and Enter Cases
Date: 2025-02-19
The Timmins Police Service has requested the public's assistance in identifying a suspect responsible for two break and enter incidents at a business on Algonquin Blvd East. These incidents occurred during nighttime or early morning hours when the business was closed.
The police indicate that surveillance images could be available to help in identifying the suspect. They have made an appeal for any information that may assist in the identification or recovery of stolen items.
Timmins Schedules City-wide Snow Plowing for February 19, 2025
Date: 2025-02-19
The City of Timmins Public Works Department will conduct a city-wide snow plowing operation starting Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 12:01 AM. This operation is scheduled to cover various areas, including city streets, rural roads, laneways, and parking lots.
The Public Works Department expects the snow removal activities to last throughout the day and extend into the evening if necessary. Residents are advised to plan their travel and parking arrangements accordingly to accommodate the plowi
Timmins Announces Community Consultation on Encampment Initiative
Date: 2025-02-19
The Timmins City Council has announced plans for a community consultation regarding the proposed H.O.P.E. (Housing, Outreach, Protection, and Engagement) initiative. This initiative will be a collaborative effort with the Cochrane District Services Board and is aimed at assessing a designated location for an encampment response project. The proposal includes space for modular structures intended as temporary housing solutions.
City Council is engaging the community to gather input and perspect
Timmins Announces Funding for H.O.P.E. Initiative with Community Consultation
Date: 2025-02-19
Timmins has announced funding approval for the H.O.P.E. (Housing, Outreach, Protection, and Engagement) initiative. The $3.2 million funding comes from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. This initiative seeks to address the safety concerns arising from encampments by proposing temporary housing alternatives.
The City Council has called for public consultation to decide on possible sites for these temporary structures. Scheduled from February 24, 2025, to March 14, 2025, the consult
2024 Council Financial Report for Smooth Rock Falls Released
Date: 2025-02-19
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls has released its 2024 financial report detailing the council's remuneration and expenses. The report provides a comprehensive review of the financial compensation and expenditures for the year ending December 31, 2024.
In the report, it is noted that Mayor Patrick Roberts received a total remuneration of $15,417.14 and incurred expenses amounting to $2,803.64. Details of other council members include Councillor Alex Johnson, who received a remuneration of $12,307.
John Deere ZTrak Mowers Recalled for Safety Risks
Date: 2025-02-20
The Canadian government has recalled several models of John Deere ZTrak™ Zero Turn Mowers equipped with Kawasaki engines due to a risk of fire and burn hazards. The recall affects models Z720E, Z730M, Z740R, and Z760R, specifically due to a faulty voltage regulator that may cause engine overheating. As of February 10, 2025, there have been no reported incidents in Canada.
Timmins Adjusts Snow Removal Schedule for February 17-21
Date: 2025-02-20
The City of Timmins Public Works Department has announced that snow removal operations will be rescheduled for the week of February 17 to February 21, 2025. These adjustments will affect the night shift snow plowing in several areas, including South Porcupine and Porcupine. Affected streets include Crawford (from Dome to Harold), Harold (from the Beer Store to Northern College), and King (from Bristol to Bob’s Lake Rd). The Department cites a city-wide snow plowing event as the reason for these
Palm Bites Brand Date Squares Recalled for Salmonella Risk
Date: 2025-02-20
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced a recall of Palm Bites brand Date Squares due to a potential risk of Salmonella contamination. The recalled items include Original Date Square and Chocolate Date Square with production dates ranging from October 24, 2008, to February 14, 2025.
Salmonella contamination can lead to serious health issues, and food contaminated with Salmonella may not appear spoiled. The CFIA advises consumers who purchased these products to avoid consuming
Recall of Swiss Chalet Chicken Nuggets Over Bone Fragment Concerns
Date: 2025-02-20
A recall has been issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) for Swiss Chalet brand chicken breast nuggets due to potential bone fragment contamination. The specific product in question comes in a 700-gram package, identified by the UPC code 066701011479, and includes best before dates of 2025 SE 07 and 2025 SE 26.
The recall was initiated after it was found that pieces of bone could be present in the nuggets, posing a potential risk to consumers. This recall affects consumers nation
Cochrane Braces for Proposed U.S. Import Tariffs Impact
Date: 2025-02-20
The Town of Cochrane is addressing potential economic challenges due to a proposed 25% tariff on Canadian imports by the United States. Currently, this tariff, which could significantly impact local industries such as forestry, mining, electric vehicles, and agriculture, is on a 30-day suspension pending further negotiations.
The Cochrane local government is planning a series of measures to manage these potential disruptions. These include advocating with provincial and federal authorities for
Timmins Outlines Canada Day Events at Hollinger Park
Date: 2025-02-20
The city of Timmins plans to host Canada Day celebrations on July 1 at Hollinger Park. Karen Bachmann, Director of Cultural Services and leader of the Canada Day committee, detailed that the event will include fireworks, family activities, and live entertainment.
Hollinger Park has been selected for its capacity to host a large number of attendees and to offer space suitable for both organized and spontaneous activities.
Local groups, artisans, crafters, and food vendors are encouraged to pa
CAF Announces Updates to Recruitment Process
Date: 2025-02-20
The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has announced a modernization initiative for its recruitment process. According to a statement from National Defence, this update is designed to better prepare for future security challenges and aligns with the defence policy "Our North, Strong and Free."
The initiative focuses on reducing delays, increasing accessibility to military service, and updating processes to meet the expectations of newer generations of applicants. These updates are intended to improve
Advance Polls Open for February 20 Provincial Elections in Ontario
Date: 2025-02-20
Advance polls for the February 20, 2025, provincial elections in Ontario have opened. According to information from Elections Ontario, advance voting will be available until February 19. This allows voters to participate ahead of the main election day.
Proposed Road Allowance Closure Near Dora Lake, Cochrane
Date: 2025-02-20
The Town of Cochrane has issued a notice regarding the potential closure of a section of the road allowance along Dora Lake, near Glackmeyer, Ontario. This closure is proposed for the purpose of selling the land to the adjacent property owner. The specific area affected is identified as Part 1 on 6R-8931, associated with Roll Number 5639 020 001 46401 0000.
Emergency Watermain Repairs in Timmins and Porcupine on February 20
Date: 2025-02-21
The City of Timmins has scheduled emergency watermain repairs to take place on February 20, 2025, affecting areas in Timmins and Porcupine. The work is set to occur from 8 AM to 8 PM.
Residents and businesses in these locations are advised to anticipate potential colored water and reduced water pressure during this period. Local authorities have specifically advised against using discolored water for drinking or laundry purposes until the situation is resolved and water clarity is restored.
Statistics Canada Reports January 2025 Housing Price Decline
Date: 2025-02-21
Statistics Canada has reported that the national new housing price index decreased by 0.1% in January 2025. This follows a similar decline noted in December 2024. According to the report, prices stayed the same in 15 of the 27 surveyed census metropolitan areas (CMAs), while nine CMAs saw increased prices and three experienced decreases.
Toronto, which is Canada's largest new housing market, recorded a price drop of 0.4%. This city significantly influences the national index, as it makes up ne
South Porcupine Facing Watermain Repairs February 20-21
Date: 2025-02-21
An emergency watermain break has been reported in South Porcupine, affecting the areas of Tisdale Ave. from Dunn Ave. to Langmuir Rd., Smith Ave. from Leighton St. to Tisdale St., and Allan St. from Smith Ave. to Mahon Lane.
Repair work is scheduled for February 20-21, 2025. During this time, road closures are expected and residents might experience interruptions in water services. These details are according to a statement by the Environmental Services department.
Residents in the impacted
Smooth Rock Falls Council Defers Decision on Municipal Property Guidelines
Date: 2025-02-21
On February 18, 2025, the Smooth Rock Falls council discussed the Municipal Property Acquisition and Sale Program during their regular meeting. This program outlines how municipal properties are acquired and disposed of in the area.
During the discussion, the council decided to defer any immediate decisions related to the program to a future date. This deferment is intended to allow time for the administration to gather additional details and address questions posed by the council.
Residents
February-March 2025 Skating Schedule Released for Smooth Rock Falls
Date: 2025-02-21
The Reg Lamy Cultural Centre Arena has announced its public skating schedule for February and March 2025. Skating sessions are available to all on the following dates: February 16, 23, and 24; February 17; February 18; and February 19, each session running from 7 PM to 8 PM.
Additionally, the arena will host free Parent and Tot skating sessions and public skating sessions during March Break. These events are part of the town's recreational offerings to the community.
The schedule announcemen
December 2024 Employment Insurance Data Shows Minor Changes
Date: 2025-02-21
Statistics Canada reported a slight change in the number of Canadians receiving regular Employment Insurance (EI) benefits in December 2024. The data indicates a minor decrease of 0.4%, which translates to 1,900 fewer individuals compared to the peak in August. On a year-over-year comparison, there is an increase of 12,000 beneficiaries, representing a 2.6% rise.
In December, employment grew by 91,000 jobs amounting to a 0.4% rise, accompanied by a 0.2 percentage point decrease in the unemploy
Timmins Snow Removal Schedule Adjusted Due to Operational Issues
Date: 2025-02-21
The City of Timmins Public Works has rescheduled snow removal operations initially planned for the week of February 15, 2025, to February 21, 2025. This change impacts specific areas within South Porcupine/Porcupine, including Dixon, Coott, Haileybury, Carlos, Mildred, and Krznaric.
City officials have stated that the rescheduling is due to operational issues. A revised snow removal schedule will be provided to the affected residents at a later date.
New Ontario Initiatives Support Young Entrepreneurs
Date: 2025-02-21
The province of Ontario has introduced funding initiatives to support young entrepreneurs in the Northeast region. This includes financial backing for Futurpreneur Canada which provides collateral-free loans of up to $75,000 along with mentoring support for new business owners.
The initiatives involve a total of $6.8 million allocated to assist small businesses through programs such as Starter Company Plus, Summer Company, and contributions to the Fédération des gens d'affaires francophones de
BACD Offers Summer Program for Student Business Initiatives
Date: 2025-02-21
The Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) is inviting student entrepreneurs to participate in its Summer Company program. This initiative is designed for students who are looking to start and run their own small business during the summer.
Participants in the Summer Company program will have access to support and mentorship from BACD professionals. Additionally, there is the potential for financial support to help address startup costs or other expenses related to their business ventures.
T
Cochrane Launches Child Care Experience Survey
Date: 2025-02-21
The Town of Cochrane has announced a survey for families with children who are attending, have previously attended, or are on the waiting list for child care centers in the area. The survey aims to gather feedback on the experiences of families with these facilities.
According to officials from the Town of Cochrane, the information collected will help better understand the needs and experiences of families in utilizing child care services. This data may be used to inform future planning and re
Recall Issued for Costway Kids Kitchen Step Stool Due to Safety Concerns
Date: 2025-02-21
A recall has been issued for the Costway Kids Kitchen Step Stool due to safety concerns identified by Health Canada. Specifically, the recall highlights an entrapment hazard caused by the design of the space between the bars on the back of the step stool. This defect creates a risk where a child’s head can become trapped.
The models involved in this recall are HY10011CF (Coffee) and HY10011HS (Grey). These models were sold in Canada, with a total of 459 units distributed between October 2021 a
Water Service Disrupted in South Porcupine Due to Emergency Break
Date: 2025-02-22
The South Porcupine area of Timmins is experiencing an emergency watermain break as of February 21, 2025. This incident affects residents on Tisdale Ave. between Dunn Ave. and Langmuir Rd., Smith Ave. from Leighton St. to Tisdale St., and Allan St. from Smith Ave.
The City of Timmins Environmental Services Department is overseeing the repairs but has not provided a specific completion timeline. In the interim, residents are advised to expect disruptions in water service. The department will co
Recall of Soo Brand Beef Jerky for Undeclared Mustard
Date: 2025-02-22
The Canada Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced a recall of specific Soo brand beef jerky due to undeclared mustard, an allergen that could potentially cause a severe reaction in individuals with mustard allergies. The affected products include Curry Flavoured Beef Jerky and several sizes of Satay Beef Jerky packaged in 85g, 170g, and 454g. These have UPCs of 0 65717 32614 0, 0 65717 44590 2, and 0 65717 45475 1 respectively， and all products lacking mustard labeling are part of the recal
Timmins Announces Snow Removal Operations for February 22 to March 1
Date: 2025-02-22
The City of Timmins has released the schedule for upcoming snow removal operations that will take place from February 22 to March 1, 2025. These operations include both night-time and daytime efforts scheduled across various locations.
Night-time Operations:
Commencing at 9:00 pm and continuing until 7:00 am, snow clearing will focus on main streets including Riverside Drive and Spruce Street in Timmins, as well as designated areas within Porcupine.
Daytime Operations:
These activities a
Timmins Police Seek Public Assistance in Quilt Theft Case
Date: 2025-02-22
The Timmins Police Service has reported the theft of a quilt from the Timmins Museum National Exhibition Centre. The theft occurred on February 18, 2025.
According to the police, the quilt was taken from a wall display. The police are asking for the public's help in recovering this item. They encourage anyone who observed any suspicious behavior in the area at the time to contact them with information.
Details or observations can be shared with the Timmins Police Service.
Health Canada Warns Against Use of Non-compliant Toddler Travel Car Seat Sold Online
Date: 2025-02-22
Health Canada has issued a warning concerning the "Travel Car Seat for Toddler," which is sold on Amazon.ca. This product has been identified as having the potential to pose a risk of injury if used in a motor vehicle. The warning specifies that the car seat is not certified with Transport Canada's National Safety Mark, meaning it does not meet safety regulations necessary for legal use in vehicles throughout Canadian provinces and territories.