The St. Paul’s United Church Time and Talent Auction fundraiser is schedule for Saturday, April 10, at 8 a.m., but between now and then, you can also offer your time and/or talent to be auctioned off to a needy community member.
On April 10, St. Paul’s will auction off your service to the highest bidder.
If you would like to donate your time, talent or a service for this important fundraiser, you can contact one of these volunteers to offer your time and talent or to get more information:
You can also find more information or contact the volunteers on the Facebook event page here.
]]>Join Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) for a virtual town hall on the current and future management of the 440-acre Carp Hills property on March 18th, from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
The virtual meeting will be open to Carp Hills area residents and other individuals interested in the future of the DUC-owned property.
Event topics include:
• presentations on the property and its ecological value
• overview of the management plan and progress made to date
• public use of the property and current challenges
• the opportunity to ask questions and share feedback on finding solutions to current issues
More information about the property can be found on DUC’s Carp Hills page
The event will be hosted online using Zoom. It is FREE to attend however, participants will be required to register in advance. Individual meeting links will be sent to registrants so you can log in ahead of the opening presentation, which will begin promptly at 7:00 p.m.
To register for the Ducks Unlimited Canada virtual town hall, click here.
For more information please contact:
Erling Armson,
Head of Land Securement and Invasives
Ducks Unlimited Canada
Phone 1-613-900-7309
Email e_armson@ducks.ca
]]>The WCSC has opened registration for the 2021 season, but no money need exchange hands at this time.
“We hope to offer summer soccer for all ages and abilities this year,” the soccer club released in a statement last Thursday (March 4). “Register now, pay later.”
Use the “Members” section of the club’s website to access an existing account or to create an account if you are new to WCSC. Registration links are accessed through your account.
Recreation youth team registrations are set up by gender and year of birth. Which age groups will be combined is dependent on registration.
“If interested in Talons youth (development/competitive), please register, but do not submit payment,” the WCSC said. “When we are able to do assessments, players will be offered placement on either a Talons team or a recreation team.”
]]>A passerby discovered a body on a snowmobile trail near Richmond Sunday. After further investigation by police, it was declared death by murder. On Monday (March 8) police identified the deceased male as 40-year-old Leo Santostefano of Ottawa.
The police are now following leads related to the vehicle they identified missing.
“Police are looking for its whereabouts,” the OPS released in a statement today (March 9). “The vehicle is a 2008 silver Nissan Altima four door, with Ontario licence plate CKZC 717. Police are aware the Nissan has fresh damage and scratches that can be seen on the rear left side bumper, and part of the muffler is missing.”
If the vehicle is located, police say please do not approach and call 911 immediately.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact the Homicide Unit at 612-236-1222 ext. 5493,” the OPS said. “Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.”
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“Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is pleased to announce today (March 9) vaccine supplies will allow healthcare worker vaccination to proceed to the ‘very high priority’ group starting in the next few days,” the OPH released in a statement. “This important milestone expands the vaccine distribution to this group of health care workers who have been vital in ensuring the health and safety of the people of Ottawa.”
Health care workers are prioritized according to the provincial Guidance for Prioritizing Health Care Workers for COVID-19 Vaccination.
The ‘very high priority’ category is broad and includes tens of thousands of health care workers in Ottawa in the following settings and roles:
“Due to the significant number of individuals eligible, OPH and the Ottawa Hospital clinic (currently the site of health care worker vaccination) are developing a broader system for health care workers to enable those in this category to register to be vaccinated in an orderly sequence,” OPH said.
On Wednesday, March 10 OPH will launch an online pre-registration portal that will enable frontline health care workers in any of the above settings to register as a ‘very high priority health care worker for vaccination. This information will be shared on Ottawa Public Health’s website, Twitter, Facebook and additional communication channels.
Where a health sector has been named, all frontline and patient-facing workers in that sector are included (e.g., custodial, security and reception staff). Where a non-health setting has been named, only workers providing a health service or direct patient care are included.
Non-regulated professionals as identified by the province who are frontline, patient-facing staff at community-based health care provider offices can register as ‘very high priority’ health care workers using the pre-registration portal. When contacted for appointment bookings, individuals will be informed of the requirement to bring an employee ID badge, pay stub or letter from their employer to confirm eligibility as a ‘very high priority’ health care worker on the day of vaccination.
Along with the online pre-registration portal, OPH will be reaching out to professional associations to expedite finding those who meet the “very high priority” category.
The vaccines for health care workers build on the province’s updated vaccination plan with expedited timelines. The anticipated improved timeliness of access to vaccines is due to the impending arrival of greater quantities of vaccine and the addition of Johnson and Johnson and AstraZenica vaccines being authorized for use in Canada. This updated plan will have a significant impact on Ottawa Public Health’s vaccine rollout plan over the coming weeks.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Vera Etches and The Ottawa Hospital will be hosting a virtual town hall for health care workers on Tuesday, March 9 from 6pm to 7pm. The event will be live streamed on Ottawa Public Health’s YouTube and Facebook pages.
Health care workers are encouraged to send their questions in advance to COVID19Vaccines@ottawa.ca. For additional information and future updates specific to health care workers, visit www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/HCWvaccine.
]]>Trivia Night in support of Almonte General Hospital and Fairview Manor
WHAT IS THE MOST PURCHASED GROCERY ITEM IN CANADA?
That’s just an example of the types of questions participants in the Almonte General Hospital Fairview Manor Foundation’s 1st annual Trivia night will be answering Saturday, April 10. The friendly competition will take place virtually beginning at 7 p.m. Entry is $35 per person.
Participants can join as a team of up to six members or as an individual and will be put onto a team. Once the evening starts, teams will be virtually placed in a ‘breakout room’ to decide on and submit their answers for each round.
“Almost everyone is trying to find fun, safe things to do with friends and family right now,” said Foundation Chair Rob Scott, and supporting health care is top of mind as well. So our Foundation team put this event together to allow community members to do both. I’m just hoping there’s lots of sports trivia!”
As well as six rounds of trivia with each featuring 10 questions, participants will also be eligible to win door prizes, bid on amazing online auction items, and participate in a raffle. Prizes will be awarded to the winning teams and for participation as well. Mulligans (free answers) will be pre-sold allowing for two skipped answers per round.
Special thanks to C.R. Gamble Funeral Home and Chapel for sponsoring the event. All proceeds will support replacement or new equipment at the Hospital and Manor. Trivia categories will include music, sports, geography and entertainment, as well as one round of local trivia too!
For more information or to register, please visit: https://almontehospitalfoundation.com/trivianight/
]]>There were 15 motor vehicle collisions in the county over the week, one involving a snowmobile.
“On March 6, Robert Webster, 53 of Lanark Highlands Township was charged with one count of impaired operation as the result of a traffic stop on Highway 7 in the Town of Perth,” OPP media relations officer Const. Joe Tereschuk released in a statement today (March 9). “The accused is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Perth on April 26.”
The Lanark County OPP investigated 10 non-criminal domestic disputes during this week and issued four charges at an 11th dispute.
“On March 2, officers from the Lanark County OPP investigated a domestic dispute in Drummond-North Elmsley Township,” Tereschuk said. “As a result of this investigation a 62-year-old resident and a 53-year-old resident were both charged with one count each of assault and mischief.”
The accused are both scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Perth on April 5.
Officers of the Lanark County OPP investigated four theft complaints and four reports of fraud during the past week.
“The Lanark County OPP encourages anyone who feels they may be the target of a scam, or if you know of someone who has, to contact your local police and/or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501,” Tereschuk said.
Any person with information regarding any criminal activity should immediately contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Lanark county Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.
]]>Vaccination update: To date, more than 57,600 doses of vaccines has been administered in Ottawa.
The Government of Ontario is responsible for the distribution of these vaccines across the province. The Ethical Framework for COVID-19 vaccine distribution guides how the provincial government prioritizes and distributes vaccines across Ontario.
The City’s Emergency Operations Centre and Ottawa Public Health are doing everything possible to ensure Ottawa residents who want to receive the COVID-19 vaccine will be able to access it as quickly and efficiently as possible, dependent on vaccine supply and in alignment with the provincial framework.
For the latest vaccination information, go here to visit the Government of Ontario’s web page on getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
Please also review the below chart which outlines the phases of vaccination roll-out as vaccine supplies are available.
As of Monday, March 8, residents born in or before 1941 or adult recipients of chronic home care and who live in the areas listed below, can call to book a vaccine appointment. To confirm if you are eligible for vaccination, please visit Ottawa Public Health’s Eligibility Screening Tool.
Bookings will soon be available for health care workers to receive the COVID-19 vaccine: Ottawa Public Health announced on March 8 that vaccine supplies will allow health care worker vaccination to proceed to the “very high priority” group starting in the next few days. Health care workers are being prioritized according to the Provincial Guidance for Prioritizing Health Care Workers for COVID-19 Vaccination. The “very high priority” category is broad and includes health care workers in Ottawa in the following settings and roles:
On Wednesday, March 10, Ottawa Public Health will be launching an online pre-registration portal that will enable frontline health care workers in any of the above settings to register as a “very high priority” health care worker for vaccination. This information will be shared on Ottawa Public Health’s website, Twitter, Facebook and additional communication channels. Where a health sector has been named, all frontline and patient-facing workers in that sector are included (e.g., custodial, security and reception staff). Where a non-health setting has been named, only workers providing a health service or direct patient care are included. Non-regulated professionals as identified by the Province who are frontline, patient-facing staff at community-based health care provider offices can register as “very high priority” health care workers using the pre-registration portal. For more detailed information on this latest announcement, CLICK HERE.
Virtual town hall for health care workers:Medical Officer of Health Dr. Vera Etches and The Ottawa Hospital will be hosting a virtual town hall for health care workers on Tuesday, March 9 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. The event will be live streamed on Ottawa Public Health’s YouTube and Facebook pages. Health care workers are encouraged to send their questions in advance to COVID19Vaccines@ottawa.ca. For additional information and updates specific to health care workers, visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/HCWvaccine.
ICE FISHING HUT REMOVAL
Ice fishing huts in our region must be removed from waterways by Monday, March 15. The removal of huts does not indicate the end of ice fishing in our area. This is a safety measure to ensure all huts are removed before thawing occurs.
As part of the Wildlife Strategy, the City of Ottawa initiated a Wildlife Speaker Series to increase residents’ knowledge and appreciation of wildlife and promote coexistence through understanding and respect. The next event in this series is taking place as follows:
Windows of Opportunity: Making Our Homes Safer for Birds
Wednesday, March 31, 7pm
Join online via Zoom
Speaker: Willow English, Safe Wings Ottawa
Windows allow natural daylight into our homes and workplaces, and may provide breathtaking views of the world outside. Unfortunately, most birds do not recognize windows and other transparent or reflective surfaces as a solid barrier. Many thousands of birds are injured and killed every year in Ottawa from collisions with buildings and other structures. Light pollution at night is also detrimental to migrating birds and other wildlife. We can all help to reduce these risks. The City of Ottawa recently developed Bird-Safe Design Guidelines for use when planning and reviewing new buildings. This Wildlife Speaker Series event will help residents recognize and reduce the risks to birds around their homes. We hope you can join us!
Safe Wings Ottawa is a local organization of dedicated volunteers working to raise awareness and make our city safer for birds. They were key supporters in the development of the City’s guidelines, and continue to provide advice to residents, building owners and managers who want to reduce risks to birds. They also monitor bird collisions in the city and provide rescue services to injured birds.
Willow English is a PhD candidate in biology at Carleton University working on Arctic-breeding shorebirds. She has been volunteering with Safe Wings since 2017, monitoring buildings and doing outreach in the community. She has worked on avian research projects across Canada, Hawaii, Alaska, Germany and Belize. Through her career and volunteering, Willow is working to make the world a better place for birds.
The Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre (WOCRC) offers health and social services and programs to benefit individuals of all ages in far west Ottawa. The Centre is currently looking for candidates who reflect the full diversity of the communities we serve to fill vacancies on the Board of Directors for their 2021-22 year. If you are devoted to your community and want to help the WOCRC provide accessible services for your family, neighbours and larger community, please click here for details and then send your application to careers@wocrc.ca by March 15, 2021.
Beginning on Monday, March 15, seasonal load restrictions will be in effect. Commercial vehicles or trailers with a gross vehicle weight in excess of five tonnes or 11,000 pounds per axle will be prohibited on roads where restriction signage is posted, and on all truck routes identified as restricted on the Urban Truck Routes and Rural Truck Routes lists. These restrictions also apply to all non-truck routes. During the spring thaw period, some roads cannot withstand heavy-vehicle loads. Every year, the City monitors thaw progression by using the forecast temperature data to calculate the Thaw Index. When the Thaw Index reaches its threshold value, load restrictions are imposed. Heavy vehicles that exceed weight limits on restricted-load roadways during the spring thaw period will be subject to fines. Once the pavement strength has been restored, load restrictions will be removed. Learn more about seasonal load restrictions.
The ARAC meeting held on March 4, was not especially long, but there were a couple of items worth noting that will come before the City Council meeting later this week on March 10.
Ottawa City Council is set to meet on Wednesday, March 10 at 10am. The meeting will be held virtually and residents can review the agenda here and listen in live to the meeting via the City of Ottawa’s YouTube channel.
The Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee (ARAC) meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 1 has been cancelled. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for Thursday, May 6.
]]>“The Ontario government is investing $14.3 million in 2020-21 to support nearly 300 seniors active living centres,” the province released in a statement today (March 9). “These programs will deliver new virtual initiatives to help keep seniors safe and socially connected as they continue to self-isolate due to COVID-19.
“Given the fact that many seniors have had to self-isolate during COVID-19, it is important that we look to programs that will keep them safe and connected,” Minister for Seniors and Accessibility Raymond Cho said. “Our government’s investment in seniors active living centres will help older adults stay virtually engaged with their friends, family and communities while combatting social isolation during the pandemic.”
“I am very pleased the Kanata Seniors Centre received more than $54,000 from the province,” Dr. Merrilee Fullerton, MPP for Kanata-Carleton and Minister of Long-Term Care, said. “With the challenges the pandemic has presented for seniors, it is very important that local organizations are able to provide programs and services that will ensure our residents are not isolated and feeling out of touch. The Kanata Seniors Centre is doing important work reaching out and connecting with our community’s seniors.”
The Ontario government’s investments this year will focus on virtual programs such as teleconferences, online videos, one-on-one phone calls to help seniors stay connected from home, and support projects such as:
This year’s ongoing funding supported the application of safety control measures against the spread of COVID-19, and provided more remote and virtual programming. These programs have also provided safe in-person programming when the local public health unit said it was safe to do so.
Seniors active living centre programs are a key initiative to help older adults stay healthy, active and socially connected within their own communities.
Seniors active living centre operators are community-based and promote wellness and social interaction through almost 300 programs across the province.
The seniors’ population in Ontario is the fastest growing age group. By 2023, there will be three million Ontarians over the age of 65.
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The OPL’s theme for this year’s IWD ‘Sheros,’ highlights women and their outstanding achievements during the pandemic.
OPL has partnered with the Ottawa International Writers Festival (OIWF) to bring you some exciting writers and works you will not want to miss:
Also, on March 24, meet remarkable women from the Ottawa area who will share the story of how they took action during the recent crisis and earned the moniker “Pandemic Shero.”
“Join us for an inspiring live-streamed panel discussion to meet Canadian Sheros and hear about their pandemic-related challenges and how they overcame to help make a difference to their community,” OPL staff released in a statement March 4. “Register now and don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear from discover new books and authors while participating in dynamic and encouraging discussions. You can also find these authors’ books available in the OPL collection.”
For more information on this program, visit BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca.
]]>Volunteer firefighters from Ottawa Fire Station (OFS) 66 across the street from The Point were able to make quick work of the small structure fire along the 300 block of Bayview Drive.
No injuries and no damage to nearby buildings were reported.
]]>“You may be eligible for help at a free tea clinic if you have a modest income and a simple tax situation,” McCrimmon’s staff released in a statement Thursday, March 4.
In general, the MP defines a modest income as an individual whose family income is less than $35,000 to a five-person family with an income of less than $52,500 (see graph for more categories).
Calling Kanata-Carleton residents,” McCrimmon said. “Need help with your 2020 tax return? See if you are eligible for help at my annual free virtual tax clinic. This year we’ll be helping by phone, by appointment only, to keep everyone safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
A tax situation is defined as simple if the recipient has no income of if their income comes from employment or pension; benefits such as the Canada Pension Plan, disability, employment insurance or social assistance; a registered retirement savings plan; support payments; scholarships, fellowships, bursaries or grants; interest under $1,000.
To register for help, visit karenmcrionmp.ca. Once registered, a volunteer will contact you to schedule a time slot that works for your schedule.
]]>“In response to the increase in COVID-19 cases in east Lanark County, Dr. Paula Stewart, medical officer of health at the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, has issued a Class Order pursuant to Section 22 of the Ontario Health Protection and Promotion Act,” Carleton Place staff released in a statement Saturday (March 6).
“The purpose of this class order is to help contain the community outbreak of COVID-19 occurring in the eastern portion of Lanark County,” Stewart said. “Everything that each and every one of us does makes a difference in preventing the spread of COVID-19 in households and the community. This Class Order will reduce opportunities for people to gather and have close unprotected contact with others outside their household in public and private facilities.”
The class order, effective from 12:01 a.m. on Friday, March 5, until rescinded by the health unit, is issued to owners and operators of public and private facilities that operate in the municipalities of Mississippi Mills, Carleton Place and Beckwith where the public may gather, including but not limited to: indoor sports venues, places of worship, banquet halls, wedding venues, dining and drinking establishments, clubs and or organizations that may have meeting facilities that can be rented to the public.
In accordance with this order:
“Any failure to comply with this class order can result in fines of up to $5,000 for every day or part of each day on which the offence occurs or continues,” staff said.
The class order is posted on the Health Unit website along with the most up to date information on COVID-19.
]]>Between March 1 and March 7, the OPP investigated 184 calls for service. Arnprior and Renfrew officers investigated eight domestic disputes during the past week.
“One accused was charged with mischief, and eight counts of uttering threats and assault,” OPP media relations officer Amanda Carruthers released in a statement today (March 8). “If you or someone you know is living in or involved in an abusive relationship help is available.”
Contact Bernadette McCann House 24/7 for support, advice or the safety of a shelter at 1-800-267-4930. The Women’s Sexual Assault Centre of Renfrew County is also available 24/7 for information and support at 1-800-663-3060. You could also attend the emergency department of any hospital in Renfrew County and ask to speak to a member of the Assault Response Team. Victim Services of Renfrew County is also available to provide emotional and practical assistance to people who have experienced domestic violence. They can be reached at 613-649-2852 or toll free at 1-877-568-5730. In emergencies call 9-1-1.
On March 3, at approximately 12:45 p.m., Renfrew OPP responded to a family dispute at a residence on Highway 17 in Whitewater Township.
“As a result of the investigation, Timothy Hubert, 60 of Whitewater Township was charged with assault police, assault, two counts of careless storage of a firearm, two counts of unauthorized possession of a firearm and failure to comply with undertaking. The accused was held for a bail hearing and remains in custody.”
The accused is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice today (March 8) for a bail hearing via video link.
“During the month of March, the OPP, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) and the Competition Bureau of Canada are joining police services across the country to promote public awareness to help prevent all Canadians from becoming victims of fraud,” Carruthers said.
This year, the OPP’s Fraud Prevention Month campaign will highlight five important topics pertaining to online safety, security and fraud prevention:
“The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how Canadians shop, conduct business, learn and interact with each other,” Carruthers said. “As a result, a significant shift has been made to utilize technology, which has resulted in considerable positive changes. However, this has not come without a cost. This past year, numerous Canadian businesses and organizations have fallen victim to the destructive toll of cyber enabled crimes.”
On March 1, Renfrew OPP received a report a suspect was in Montreal using the complaint’s personal information to obtain a mortgage. On March 2, Renfrew OPP were notified a victim received a call from Bell that someone had tried to purchase a new cell phone with their personal details.
“In both cases, the suspects were stopped before any loss occurred,” Carruthers said. “On March 6, Renfrew OPP were advised that a victim lost $1,000 when they provided the fraudster with Google Play cards.”
As a reminder, here are some red flags to identify frauds and scams:
“Legitimate agencies will never pressure you for information over the phone or demand money immediately,” Carruthers said. “If you do fall victim to a fraud or know someone who has, individuals are urged to contact their local police service and the CAFC by phone at 1-888-495-8501 or online at https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm.”
For more fraud facts and figures and a downloadable booklet (PDF), visit The Competition Bureau of Canada website at https://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/eic/site/cb-bc.nsf/eng/home or by visiting http://www.opp.ca.
On March 3, at approximately 7:30 p.m., a Renfrew OPP officer initiated a traffic stop on Highway 417 in McNab-Braeside Township.
“As a result of the investigation, Shawn Menard, 59 of Pembroke was charged with impaired driving and driving with blood alcohol concentration over 80,” Carruthers said.
The accused was released on an Undertaking and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Renfrew on April 7.
On March 6, at approximately 2:10 a.m., a Renfrew OPP officer conducted a traffic stop on Highway 17 in Horton Township.
“As a result of the investigation, Veronica Docken, 42 of Petawawa was charged with impaired driving,” Carruthers said. “The accused was also charged with offences under the Liquor Licence Act and the Highway Traffic Act.”
The accused was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Renfrew on April 7.
On March 7, at approximately 10:30 p.m., a Renfrew OPP officer conducted a traffic stop on O’Brien Road in Renfrew.
“As a result of the investigation, Raymond Blckburn, 32 of Denbigh was charged with impaired driving,” Carruthers said.
The accused was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Renfrew on April 7.
On March 2, at approximately 3:10 p.m., a member of the OPP Highway Safety Division (HSD) was conducting traffic enforcement on Highway 17 in McNab-Braeside Township. The officer initiated a traffic stop and a 48-yea- old was charged with speeding and stunt driving resulting in a seven-day vehicle impoundment and a seven-day licence suspension.
Crime Stoppers Pembroke/Renfrew County believes that someone may have information that could assist police in solving these crimes. If you have information that results in charges being laid, you qualify for an award of up to $2,000. Call Pembroke/Renfrew County Crime Stoppers at 613-735-8477 or toll free at 1-800-222-8477. You could help solve a crime. All tips remain anonymous and you will not have to attend court. Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display. The telephones are answered 24 hours a day. Please visit the website www.valleytips.ca.
]]>“The signing of the accord demonstrates the City of Ottawa’s public commitment to promoting gender diversity and equity within the corporation,” city staff released in a statement today.
Developed and launched by EHRC in 2017, the accord proposes united action by employers, educators, unions and governments to expand the breadth and depth of the skilled workforce. These actions are designed to ensure women are informed of the opportunities available in the sector of their choice and, once employed, are fully supported and provided with equal opportunities to grow and develop to their full potential.
“The Leadership Accord on Gender Diversity is an opportunity for the City of Ottawa to affirm its commitment to gender diversity and equity in the workplace,” Kavanagh said. “We are pleased to mark International Women’s Day with a further step in our organization’s diversity, equity and inclusion journey.”
As the national capital of Canada, the City of Ottawa is proud to be a leader in gender diversity and employment practices. The accord is another step in the city’s commitment to fostering a gender-equitable workplace. This builds on other initiatives, including the implementation of the city’s Women and Gender Equity Strategy (WGES) developed to ensure the City of Ottawa’s services, strategies and plans integrate a women and gender lens and promote women and gender equity. The WGES includes a systematic framework that sets corporate and departmental goals and defines commitments of women and gender equity for Phase One of its implementation in 2021-2022.
“Promoting diversity, equity and inclusion is an important focus of the City of Ottawa,” Watson said. “I am proud to have signed the Electricity Human Resources Canada Leadership Accord on Gender Diversity to demonstrate our commitment to promoting gender diversity and equity within our organization and building a workforce that is truly representative of Canada’s people.”
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ORLEANS – Charlotte Smith came from Scarborough, North Yorkshire England at 12-years-old filled with the hope of a new life in Dunrobin with her long-lost mother.
The fairy tale never emerged though, as Smith’s life quickly devolved to a lengthy period of homelessness, sex work, petty crime and drug addiction.
But that would not be the final chapter, as Smith’s love of horses; work ethic instilled by life on the farm; and a desire to help those facing similar challenges, has Smith working through her master’s degree in sociology at Carleton University; working as a peer researcher; and volunteering as a support worker for youth in need and at risk.
Smith, now 32, came to West Carleton at age 12 when an opportunity to be reunited with her mother presented itself for the the child who had been living with adopted parents since she was six months old.
“It was the very rare circumstance where she found me, and wanted to adopt me,” Smith told West Carleton Online last Thursday (March 4).
When Smith arrived in West Carleton, she attended Stonecrest Elementary School and fell in love with horses and the farm life.
“My friends and I would exchange work for horses,” Smith said. “We were always ready to shovel manure for horses. We loved riding.”
Smith would head to West Carleton Secondary School, and while she loved her life outside of home, things started going wrong at home. At West, Smith could talk, and often did with her art and English teacher Sarah Kinney.
“She would let me talk to her for as long as I needed,” Smith said. “When things were really bad at home for me, she was the reason I kept going to school.”
At 15, Smith was kicked out of her home and dropped out of school. It was the start of many challenges for the young West Carleton girl.
She bought a horse and hoped to work, but there was more rough road in store. She was situated in a foster home in the area. After a few months, the foster father initiated a sexual relationship with Smith. At 15, not only was it illegal, it was more than Smith could comprehend at the time.
“At the time I would have said it was consensual,” she said. “When I look back, it sucks. I wish I knew. You don’t do that to a 15-year-old.”
Even after moving out of the foster home, the father continued to visit.
“I was so scared to tell anyone, just because I was so ashamed,” Smith said.
Smith continued working at stables in the West Carleton area such as Elmcroft. The manager would wonder why Smith would be dropped off at 6 a.m. every morning to work, when she was supposed to be staying there.
But it was too much for Smith to share. She thought about her parents kicking her out, having sex with a much older man, it was too much for her to talk about.
“I felt like the worst human in the world,” Smith said.
She also thought she was alone in the world.
“At the time, I thought I was the only one,” Smith said. “I have learned there is so much sexual abuse going on. Even here in Ottawa. It’s terrible.”
From there the spiral continued from 19 to her early 20s. Smith was addicted to crack cocaine and Oxycontin. She lived on the streets, was in and out of shelters, spent time in jail, couch surfed.
“Never anywhere safe,” Smith said. “I got by on a mixture of sex work and shoplifting. All for drugs and places to stay.”
Her last trip to jail was for shoplifting tuna snacks from a dollar store. She had re-offended so often, the judicial system no longer had mercy and even the stealing of such small items meant parole violations were broken and jail time was issued.
“I felt like I knew I was going to die,” Smith said. “At the time, a lot of my friends were getting HIV, Hepatitis C. I almost didn’t care. I felt, I was going to leave jail, have nowhere to stay, only this time die.”
When she got out, she called a friend from Stonecrest. He answered.
“He was renting a place in Cumberland,” Smith said. “He said (the friend did not want to be named in this story), when you’re out, come here. It was the first time I had a place to stay when I left jail.”
She stayed clean, but other than that, did not do much.
“I didn’t know how to look after myself,” Smith said. “I was afraid if I left, I would end up right back where I started.”
One day her landlord Randy said she had to do something.
“He said, ‘you need a job – what are you good at?’” Smith said. “I said horses. The next day we got in the car. It was a snowstorm. We stopped at a farm on Frank Kenny Road (Cumberland area). I knocked on the door and said do you need help? She said ‘absolutely and come back tomorrow morning.’ Sometimes things just happen at the right time.”
It was another small step towards a stable future.
“Every day I walked in the door to feed the horses, I couldn’t believe I had this opportunity,” Smith said. “All I wanted to do was work.”
She also finished her high school using the independent learning material provided for her in jail. She kept working and kept educating herself. Smith went to Everest College for a year taking the school’s addiction worker program.
“I wanted to go back and save some of my friends,” Smith said. “A lot of the girls at the barn had a university degree. It inspired me. One of them even helped me write the entrance exam.”
Smith graduated from Carleton University’s undergraduate program last year, and now Smith is writing her thesis. Actually, she took a break from that work to help in a time when youth facing similar issues are even more challenged by the ongoing global pandemic.
“When the pandemic hit, I dropped school work and focused on my outreach work,” Smith said.
As a peer researcher, Smith is regularly interviewing people with similar life experiences. It has given her an opportunity to connect directly with those who need help, even if it’s just a relatable ear.
“I wasn’t going to just give them their $20 (for agreeing to be interviewed) and say see you later,” Smith said. “I wanted to keep in touch and a lot of them did. It has turned in to an organic peer support group.”
Smith has also launched the Livex Alliance.
A group of peers including youth and adults with similar lived experiences related to youth homelessness and allies, working to support marginalized youth during the pandemic and beyond. And now she is incorporating her love of horses with her efforts to help at-risk youth. Smith has been able to work with West Carleton stable manager Mandy Dupuis at Silver Creek Ranch, to name one, to bring out youth to the farm.
“We’ve finally been able to incorporate horses in to the program,” Smith said. “It’s crazy how healing the youth can find horses to be around. It’s really fantastic to see them interact. See that weight lifted off them for that moment. I’m able to share the opportunities that helped save me.”
And Smith hopes to make that opportunity a permanent part of her work with at-risk youth.
“That’s my dream,” she said. “To have a centre where kids can come and learn. There are a lot of employable skills you can learn working at a barn, even if you are not an animal person.”
The same day Smith spoke with West Carleton Online, she was set to be honoured by The Royal Ottawa Foundation later that evening with the 2021 Personal Inspiration Award one of five 2021 Inspiration Awards presented in five categories during an event from the Delta Hotel hosted by former Entertainment Tonight Canada host and MuchMusic VJ, Rick Campanelli and streamed live to an international audience.
While honoured, Smith says its her support network that deserves the credit.
“It’s obviously really nice, and I appreciate it,” Smith said. “But I feel guilty. I’ve had a lot of people who have helped along the way. Mental health issues are the legacy of my childhood. Everyone who had to deal with me deserves an award.”
Smith mentions Kinney and, at the time, Elmcroft’s Amanda Hay as two of many on that list.
“It’s just a signal to me to keep going with the work and do even better,” Smith said. “This shows me, people are watching, and I want to do more for young people in Ottawa.”
For Smith, the future is unwritten, but the path is there.
“For once, I’m not afraid of the future,” she said.
]]>“The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) Homicide Unit continues to investigate the death of a man found on a snowmobile trail off Dobson Lane in the Richmond area,” the OPS released in a statement this evening (March 7).
Police were called to the area near McBean St. and Dobson Lane just before 9 a.m. today after a passerby found a man’s body.
“The identification process and next of kin notification of the victim is underway,” the OPS said. “The death is being investigated as a homicide.”
On Monday (March 8) afternoon, the OPS identified the vicitim.
“The OPS Homicide Unit has identified the deceased male as 40-year-old Leo Santostefano of Ottawa,” the OPS released in a statement.
Anyone who was in the area of McBean Street between the hours of 9 p.m. (March 6) and 8 a.m. (March 7) and noted anything suspicious, or anyone with information is asked to contact the homicide unit at 612-236-1222 ext. 5493. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.
]]>Firefighters from Ottawa Fire Station 42 in Kanata North were first on scene for the fire at 2 Beaverbrook Ln.
“Ottawa Fire Services (OFS) received a single 911 from a neighbor at 12:15 a.m. reporting heavy black smoke from the front door of a home on Beaverbrook Lane,” OFS public information officer Carson Tharris released in a statement yesterday. “Upon arrival, firefighters were being waved down by nearby residents and confirmed smoke conditions, coming from one of the homes in a four-door row of townhomes.”
A working fire was declared at 12:19 a.m.
“Upon initial assessment of the home, black smoke was also confirmed coming from a second-floor window at the rear of the home,” Tharris said. “Fire was discovered in a second-floor bedroom and was quickly extinguished.”
One occupant was released in care of the Ottawa Paramedics Service.
“A fire investigator has been dispatched to the scene,” Tharris said. “Victim Services is also responding. The fire was declared under control at 12:34 a.m. A loss stopped was declared at 12:49 a.m. A patient is in the care of the Ottawa Paramedic Service.”
The Canadian Red Cross and the Salvation Army will both be assisting those affected by this incident.
“We would like to thank the following agencies who collaborated with us to manage this incident: Enbridge, Ottawa Police Service, Ottawa Hydro, Canadian Red Cross and the Salvation Army. Our work together is based on trust, cooperation and a group commitment to service excellence and safety.”
Tharris reminds witnesses to a fire to call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so.
“Remember, you are our eyes and ears to the emergency,” he said. “Our dispatch staff will ask questions to help best locate the incident and assess the conditions surrounding the emergency. We encourage you to remain calm, answer the Dispatcher’s questions and to stay on the line until advised to hang up.”
When the smoke alarm sounds, get out fast. You may only have seconds to escape safely. Evacuate only if it is safe to do so. Take the stairs during an emergency and do not take the elevator.
“Smoke is toxic,” Tharris said. “If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your way out. If pets are trapped inside your home, tell firefighters right away. Do not return inside to retrieve them. Once out, stay out. Call 911 from a safe place and stay on the line until advised to hang up by the dispatchers. If you can safely evacuate please close all doors behind you to prevent the spread of smoke and fire. Oxygen fuels fires so closing doors can help stop its growth. Also, closed doors offer additional protection from smoke or heat damage.”
]]>“Patrol officers intercepted two stolen SUVs in the city’s west end this week,” the Ottawa Police Service released in a statement today (March 5).
At approximately 2:30 a.m. on March 2, patrol officers observed two Lexus SUVs travelling in tandem eastbound on Highway 417 just past the Moodie Drive exit.
“Officers were able to initiate a traffic stop with the assistance of the Canine Unit and successfully apprehended the driver of one of the vehicles following a police pursuit,” the OPS said. “The stopped vehicle had been reported stolen out of Markham on Feb. 26, 27. The second vehicle was not located.”
At approximately 4 a.m. on March 4, officers responded to a vehicle theft in progress near Hazeldean Road and Stittsville Main Street.
“Officers were able to locate the stolen Toyota 4Runner SUV in the area and initiate a traffic stop,” the OPS said. “The driver surrendered to officers and was arrested.”
West Criminal investigators have charged Ralff Castan, 24 of Montreal, with the following crimes in relation to the stolen Lexus:
Castan was released with conditions and is scheduled to appear in court on March 16.
West Criminal investigators also charged Abderazak Achab, a 26 of Montreal, with the following in relation to the stolen 4Runner:
Achab remains in custody.
“Investigators would like to remind residents to take precaution in order to protect their vehicle,” the OPS said. “Any Lexus/Toyota SUV owners that notice new or fresh damage to the driver’s side door handle or observe someone taking photos of their dashboard Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), are asked to report it to the OPS.”
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“At approximately 1:23 p.m. officers with the Ottawa Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to a single vehicle collision on the westbound off ramp of Highway 417 at Carp Road,” OPP Const. Dany Viel released in a statement. “The investigation found a tractor trailer had left the roadway and rolled over. The driver, who was alone in the vehicle, was pronounced deceased but the next of kin notification hasn’t been done.”
Firefighters from Ottawa Fire Station 46 in Stittsville were the Ottawa Fire Services (OFS) first on scene for the motor vehicle collision with the driver trapped within.
“At 1:24 p.m., OFS received an auto generated call from Ottawa Police Services for a tractor trailer that had rolled over,” OFS public information officer Carson Tharris released in a statement this afternoon. “Updates were received that an occupant of the vehicle was trapped.”
Crews on scene worked to stabilize the vehicle upon arrival.
“Fire crews remain on location while they await heavy equipment to right the vehicle,” Tharris said.
“The off-ramp lane of the 417 to northbound Carp Road will be closed for several hours while the OPP collision investigators work to determine the cause of the crash,” Viel said.
“If you are the first person at a motor vehicle incident, please approach the scene only if it is safe to do so,” Tharris said. “It is advisable to remain in your vehicle on fast moving highways as motorists may not see you if you exit your vehicle. Motorists are reminded to drive with caution near an incident occurring on a roadway. First responders are working in the area. If possible, pull as close as you can to the opposite side of the roadway from the incident.”
]]>“The drive-thru clinics are part of the regional vaccination plan led by the Renfrew County and District Health (RDCHU) and follows the Ministry of Health priority sequencing,” Arnprior Regional Health (ARH) communications manager Melissa McDermott released in a statement today (March 5).
The Arnprior and District Family Health Team (ADFHT), ARH, County of Renfrew Paramedic Service and RCDHU collaborated closely to plan and operate the first of the clinics in the Arnprior District High School parking lot.
“Locally, we are working collaboratively with our healthcare partners to get the vaccine in the right arms as efficiently as possible,” ADFHT executive director Karen Simpson said. “The Arnprior vaccination rollout will be multi-phased and soon shift its focus to high-priority groups in the community, beginning with residents who are 80 years and older.”
“Our successful drive-thru clinic pilot has been an important opportunity for our collaborative team to test and fine-tune the logistics before we scale to our larger community clinics,” ADFHT registered nurse Marlo Michelson, who helped lead the clinic logistics, said.
Through the first drive-thru clinic, the Arnprior COVID-19 vaccination team immunized 112 healthcare workers – including family physicians, family health team staff, dentists and dental staff, pharmacists and pharmacy techs, paramedics, and other healthcare providers as well as some members of the OPP from the Arnprior and area community. Additional clinics are planned over the next week to complete this priority group.
“Building upon the teamwork, mutual experiences and processes that are still ongoing in the COVID-19 testing sites across the county, it is our belief that a drive-thru model for vaccination is as efficient and will provide users a safe and comfortable experience,” Deputy Chief – Clinical Program, County of Renfrew Paramedic Service Mathieu Grenier said.
As part of the drive-thru vaccination clinic pilot, the team trialled the centralized online booking system. This system is part of the Connected Care electronic health records system that has been developed in collaboration between ARH and other CHAMP hospitals including Queensway Carleton Hospital, l’Hôpital Montfort, Élisabeth Bruyère Hospital¸ Carleton Place & District Memorial Hospital and Glengarry Memorial Hospital.
“Our priority is to have a centralized online booking system for Renfrew County that will make the COVID-19 vaccination process less stressful and more convenient for our community members,” Health information Services and Decision Support and Chief Privacy Officer, ARH manager Andrea McClymont said. “The drive-thru clinics and the ARH clinics have given our project team the valuable opportunity to test drive the booking system before we launch it broadly to the community as part of the phased vaccination rollout.”
As the vaccination rollout moves ahead, priority groups will be notified through various multi-media channels including public service announcements to indicate who is eligible to receive the vaccine. The centralized online vaccine booking system will be available for all Renfrew County and District communities. For those who do not have access to the internet, there will also be a phone booking system. More information and details will be shared with residents soon.
The Arnprior vaccination rollout is being led by ADFHT, ARH, Clancy’s Drug Store, County of Renfrew Paramedic Service, and The Town of Arnprior as part of the regional strategy led by RCDHU.
]]>West Carleton Online covered the early saga of homeless Arnprior man Guy Lamarche and the small bunkie he built in Carp over the winter, before generating enough attention to get it moved to his community of Arnprior.
On Jan. 4 we spoke with Lamarche about the bunkie and his efforts to shine a light on the issue of rural and small town homelessness at his build site in Carp. On Feb. 17 we reported he was given a deadline to remove the bunkie from the Carp property as the land had been sold. On Feb. 23 we reported on the community effort to move the nearly 107 square foot structure to Arnprior (click here to view all stories).
Since the bunkie arrived in Arnprior, it has been the talk of the town. Both sides of the discussion included the positive efforts to help reduce the homeless issue, as well as the concerns others had of a structure with no plumbing and no electricity being used as a residence on a privately owned parking lot.
Many wondered what was the position of the Town of Arnprior’s politicians? Yesterday (March 4), the town issued a statement.
“Arnprior council and staff are working with the Renfrew County and District Health Unit and other community partners to investigate the structure,” staff wrote. “We understand the concerns raised by the public and we take concerns for the health and safety of all residents very seriously. The structure is located on private property and the town is in contact with the owner and individual who is occupying the structure regarding compliance with bylaws and regulations.”
]]>The Liberal MP hosted a live video town hall twice yesterday, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., to field questions from her constituents and provide what answers she could.
West Carleton Online dropped in on the 2 p.m. virtual town hall.
Most of the questions related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in which she provided the latest news on the rollout that she was aware of.
“I think we’re in for the end of winter, a couple more months of tough sledding, and then things will get dramatically better,” McCrimmon said. “We won’t have everyone vaccinated by the end of summer, but we’ll be close. But even people being able to get out and go for a walk when the weather warms up is going to help a lot.”
Not only for the physical self, but the mental self as well, McCrimmon said.
McCrimmon encouraged those struggling with their mental health under current conditions should visit the website wellnesstogether.ca where visitors can access support 24/7 with no fees through a variety of different methods including but not limited to one-to-one counselling “and it’s excellent,” McCrimmon said.
MCrimmon was asked what the federal government’s priorities were coming out of the pandemic. She felt childcare and pharmacare were way up there, and these priorities will help give the country an economic boost.
“This is exactly the direction we need to go,” McCrimmon said, “We need to increase the gross domestic product by 1.2 to 1.3 per cent. The only way to do this is to get more women in to the workforce. How do we do this? Childcare and pharmacare.”
Several viewers wanted to know when the country would see its next official budget. The last time the Trudeau government tabled a national budget was on March 19, 2019 – 577 days ago. McCrimmon said she didn’t know the exact date but expects one soon.
“We don’t know until they announce it,” McCrimmon said. “I think end of March, mid-April. That’s what I expect.”
The event lasted almost two hours.
“I wanted to say thank you for coming and joining us today,” McCrimmon said. “There are brighter days ahead and I so miss you all. I surely look forward to the day I can go out and talk to you in person.”
McCrimmon hosted a second live event later that evening, and has already scheduled a new event for Tuesday, March 16 at 7 p.m. McCrimmon will host another Virtual Town Hall with a focus on Environment and Climate Change and featuring special guest panelist, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Jonathan Wilkinson. For more information on this event, click here.
]]>The RCDHU reports possible exposure is linked to The Prior Sports Bar and Restaurant on Wednesday, Feb. 17 – Wednesdays are busy at The Prior with Wing Night being a long-standing tradition at the popular pub.
The RCDHU is warning anyone (staff and patrons) who attended the establishment on Feb. 17, between 11 a.m. and midnight (although the restaurant closes as 8 p.m.) to “immediately self-isolate” and arrange for a COVID-19 test.
The health unit has been doing contact management of high-risk contacts connected to the exposure, but said, “There is some concern that some individuals may still be infected with COVID-19 and we are trying to prevent further spread.”
Anyone who was at the bar during those hours can contact the Renfrew County Virtual Triage Assessment Centre at 1-844-727-6404 to schedule a test.
The Prior was one of the first restaurants in south Renfrew County to install plexiglass shields at their bar, effectively sealing off patrons in their own bar. The Prior also instituted hand-sanitizing and contact tracing upon entrance under the watchful eye of seating staff as well as other heightened COVID-19 safety measures.
“As much as we have done everything we think we could have, the bad news hit us last night,” The Prior Sports Bar and Family Restaurant released in a statement Tuesday (March 2). “One of our employees has tested positive for COVID despite all our best efforts – she has not been at work since Feb. 20 and has been isolating as required. This news has hit us hard during a time that has been especially hard anyway. Good news is that she is starting to feel better and is hopefully on the mend.”
The Prior “in an abundance of caution” voluntarily closed this week and, “depending on test results, will re-evaluate for the week of March 10.”
Prior management acknowledged the risk the entire service industry is under during the pandemic in a statement Feb. 28.
“We understand most people are doing their part but unfortunately, our industry requires customers to have their masks off, potentially exposing other customers and staff unknowingly,” ownership said. “Many sacrifices have been made for almost a year now, and we are all suffering from COVID fatigue, but now is the first time we have seen it actively within our community – now is not the time to be passive and stop being vigilant. We wish those inflicted a speedy recovery and we hope to be open to serve you in-house again.”
]]>There have now been 442 deaths linked to COVID-19 in Ottawa.
OPH says there are 517 active cases in the city, with 27 people in hospital after contracting the illness. Four local COVID-19 patients are in intensive care.
According to OPH’s dashboard, 24 healthcare institutions are dealing with COVID-19 outbreaks, as well as four schools and two childcare centres. Health officials are also tracking community outbreaks stemming from one multi-unit dwelling, a community organization and a pair of workplaces.
It’s been a week (Feb.25) since Ottawa’s last shipment of new COVID-19 vaccine doses. To date, the city has received 61,820 doses of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine and has administered 54,345 vaccinations.
Residents being tested for COVID-19 in Ottawa are seeing positive results 2.1 per cent of the time.
There have been 14,950 lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the city since March of 2020, of which 13,991 have been resolved.
Ontario is reporting 994 new cases of COVID-19 today, including nine in the Eastern Ontario Health Unit’s region, 10 in the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark district, and two in Renfrew County.
Ottawa Public Health’s chief medical officer of health, Dr. Vera Etches, released a statement yesterday evening (March 3), which stated while Ottawa currently remains in the orange-restrict zone, rates are no longer decreasing and the city is headed to “red category thresholds.”
“The wastewater signal in particular has been increasing for over a week, suggesting more people are shedding the virus, perhaps unknowingly posing a risk of transmission to others,” Etches said. “The number of people positive for COVID-19 who have been confirmed by genetic sequencing to have a variant of concern remains at 10. However, the numbers that have screened positive for an initial genetic indicator of a variant of concern has increased over the month to 73 now.”
These screened positives, she explained, are likely to be confirmed as variants of concern when the genetic sequencing is completed, which could give a total as high as 83 people with variants of concern.
This news prompted a statement from Mayor Jim Watson.
“We are seeing some worrying indicators that cases are rising too quickly,” he said. “I know this has been an exhausting 12 months to say the least. We’re in the third period with the vaccine in sight, let’s close this out successfully and not let the virus send us to overtime.”
Every resident — including those who have been vaccinated — need to keep up with measures to stop transmission, Dr. Etches said.
The news comes after the city announced it was working on vaccinating residents in congregate care settings serving seniors like hospices and those in shelters.
With all shelters having now experienced a COVID-19 outbreak and one-quarter of the clients, about 220, having tested positive for the virus since mid-January, the city said an estimated 860 shelter clients will be vaccinated starting this week.
Ottawa had previously ended its red zone status and entered into the orange zone on Feb. 16 when the province lifted the lockdown.
CANADA – The target date for completing immunizations in Canada could arrive early thanks to a change in vaccine guidelines and a potential fourth vaccine on the way.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has remained steadfast that all Canadians who want a COVID-19 vaccine will be able to get one by the fall. But with extended intervals between the first and second doses, the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) projects 80 per cent of Canadians over the age of 16 could receive a first dose of the Pfizer or Moderna shot by the end of June.
On Wednesday, Trudeau acknowledged changes in public health guidance regarding the timing of second doses would likely speed up the vaccine rollout and move up the target.
Additionally, Trudeau says the timeline set by the federal government didn’t factor in the newly approved AstraZeneca shot, or the Johnson & Johnson shot that could be approved in the coming weeks.
NACI said yesterday (March 3) provinces can now wait up to four months before giving the second doses of COVID-19 vaccines. That is up from the three-week maximum first suggested when vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna were first approved.
The federal body is recommending “in the context of limited COVID-19 vaccine supply” the number of individuals benefiting from the first dose should be maximized.
What this means for Ontario’s vaccine rollout remains unclear, but sources suggest the Ford government could provide a list of who will get vaccinated sooner by the end of the week.
“This will allow Ontario to rapidly accelerate its vaccine rollout and get as many vaccines into arms as quickly as possible and, in doing so, provide more protection to more people,” said a spokesperson from Ontario’s minister of health.
Timeline could move up even more if the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine gets approved.
Health Canada officials say the decision on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine could come in the next few weeks after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved the shot.
All three currently approved vaccines are 100 per cent effective against death and hospitalization as a result of COVID-19, but clinical trials suggested mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) were more effective at preventing COVID-19 infections. NACI is not recommending the AstraZeneca shot for residents over 65.
Solicitor General Sylvia Jones was asked who in Ontario will receive the new AstraZeneca vaccine that has a shelf life of less than a month. Jones said she’s not ready to release the details yet, but said it will go to those aged 60 to 64, and suggested it would be pharmacists administering it.
CARLETON PLACE – A pop-up COVID-19 testing centre is being set up at the Carleton Place Arena for anyone who attended the Thirsty Moose Pub and Eatery in late February.
Patrons who were at the pub on Feb. 21, 23, 25, and 26, between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m., are being asked by the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit to get tested for the virus.
A COVID-19 outbreak in east Lanark County that started at a social gathering has now resulted in 20 people testing positive for the virus.
The Thirsty Moose Pub and Eatery in Carleton Place was not the root cause of the outbreak and was not closed by the health unit, but a statement on the pub’s Facebook page said they are closed until further notice.
The testing centre at the Carleton Place Arena is open for Moose patrons on Friday, between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Mayor Doug Black released a statement yesterday (March 3) on the spike of COVID-19 cases in the Carleton Place community as well as the news of a coronavirus variant being found in the Lanark County town.
“With the recent release of information from the Health Unit regarding the outbreak in our area, as well as a positive case of a variant of concern in our region, I can understand why anxiety levels in the general community are high right now,” he said. “We have been relatively fortunate in our area until recently with case numbers being low in comparison to other regions and this sense of security can contribute to a rise in numbers when people start letting their guard down.”
Black said residents must continue to be vigilant.
“I know fatigue is setting in regarding following public health measures and that many of us miss social interactions with friends and family,” he said. “However, I cannot stress enough it is critical residents continue to follow public health measures as outlined by the health unit.”
Black said one thing that can help with fatigue, is respecting privacy.
“Receiving a positive diagnosis is a significantly stressful situation,” he said. “Respecting privacy and refraining from gossiping about suspected cases is of the utmost importance during this difficult time. Not only is it demonstrating compassion towards those who are navigating their way through a stressful and scary situation, but it limits the spread of misinformation and unnecessary fear in the community. Please know that it’s ok to not feel ok. If you or someone you know would benefit from speaking with someone, Lanark County Mental Health has a Pandemic Health Line that you can call at 1-833-283-9979. They are available to offer support without shame or judgement.”
ONTARIO – Ontario will extend the interval between doses of COVID-19 vaccines to up to four months after a national panel recommended doing so, paving the way for an acceleration of the province’s immunization effort.
A spokeswoman for Health Minister Christine Elliott said the province welcomed the updated guidance from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) released yesterday (March 3) afternoon.
The recommendation came two days after Ontario sought advice on dosing intervals in an effort to speed up its rollout, which has been criticized for being slow.
“This will allow Ontario to rapidly accelerate its vaccine rollout and get as many vaccines in to arms as quickly as possible and, in doing so, provide more protection to more people,” Alexandra Hilkene released in a statement.
The province said it will soon share details on an updated vaccine plan that accounts for the new dosing recommendation as well as expected supply of the recently approved Oxford-AstraZeneca shots.
Earlier yesterday, Ontario said it plans to administer the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine to residents aged 60 to 64.
Solicitor General Sylvia Jones said the targeted use of the vaccine will help cut illness and death across Ontario.
“We know that from age 60 and up there are, unfortunately, more hospitalizations when someone gets COVID,” she said. “By focusing in on those parts of our population that are more vulnerable, what we ended up actually doing is tamping down and curbing transmission.”
Jones said the Oxford-AstraZeneca shot will not be administered through mass immunization clinics but through a “different pathway,” although she did not elaborate on what that would be.
Ontario said earlier this week it was following the advice of the national vaccine panel that recommended against using the Oxford-AstraZeneca shot on people aged 65 and older due to limited data on its effectiveness in seniors.
Jones also said the government has signed an agreement with the province’s pharmacists’ association to have COVID-19 shots administered in pharmacies in the coming months.
Ontario has so far focused on vaccinating the highest-priority groups, including long-term care residents and certain health-care workers.
The province said it aims to start vaccinating residents aged 80 and older starting the third week of March, though the timeline is subject to change.
Some public health units however, have moved ahead with vaccinations for the general population, starting with people aged 80 and older.
Those units are taking bookings for immunizations through their own web or phone systems as a provincial portal remains under development.
Ontario has administered a total of 754,419 doses of a COVID-19 vaccine so far.
Meanwhile, Ontario is expected to determine later this week if a number of COVID-19 hot spot regions will move back to its pandemic restrictions’ framework. Toronto, Peel and North Bay remain under strict stay-at-home orders that are set to expire Monday.
]]>“It’s officially March,” the MVCA released in a statement Monday (March 1). “And you know what that means: time to haul in your fishing huts, hockey nets and other on-ice gear before the ice is out.”
Building materials, benches and shovels, garbage and other waste can pollute our rivers and lakes, harm fish and wildlife and create hazards for boaters and swimmers in the spring, the MVCA said.
“Under Ontario law, eastern Ontario fishing huts must be removed by March 15,” the MVCA said. “However, as the sun gets stronger and the weather begins to warm, it’s wise to remove them sooner rather than later. If you wait too long, you may find the ice too thin to access your belongings.”
It is an offence under the Public Lands Act to leave your ice hut out after ice break up, even if that occurs before the removal deadline.
“So, take some time this week to collect your belongings, dispose of your garbage and dismantle any structures you’ve built on the ice,” the MVCA said. “Protect and respect the river that has kept you going all through the long winter months.”
For complete fishing hut regulations visit www.ontario.ca/ice-fishing.
]]>“Municipal services are not currently available at the property, but the applicant proposes to cover the cost to extend water and sewer services to the site as part of the redevelopment,” city staff released in a statement today (March 4). “The amendment would increase permitted density for the site as two existing homes would be replaced with 10 detached dwellings in a planned development along a private road.”
The development would be transitional, situated between the denser village core and a nearby low-density residential neighbourhood.
Recommendations from today’s ARAC meeting will rise to council on Wednesday, March 10.
For more information on city programs and services, visit ottawa.ca or call 311 (TTY: 613-580-2401).
]]>“In February 2021, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) West Criminal Investigations Unit began an investigation of indecent acts in Kanata,” the OPS released in a statement today (March 4). “The information received was a man would park his vehicle and then masturbate and expose his genitals.”
This morning, Police attended one of the locations the suspect has previously been at and a man was seen masturbating. He was arrested without incident.
“The Sexual Assault and Child Abuse (SACA) Unit charged Matthew Sturgeon, 24 of Ottawa, with committing an indecent act and criminal harassment,” the OPS said.
He is scheduled to appear in court today.
“The investigation is ongoing and SACA investigators believe there may be other victims and are asking them to contact police,” the OPS said. “The vehicle involved in today’s incident was a Honda Civic with a Quebec license plate.”
Anyone with information is asked to call Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222, ext. 5944 or via email at mcm@ottawapolice.ca. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.
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