CHAPLEAU EXPRESS
Local News Weekly
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Vol. 24, Issue 45, August 6, 2020
COVID Alert Available for Download Beginning Today Privacy-First, Made-in-Ontario App Notifies Users of Potential Exposure to COVID-19 As Ontarians continue to do their part to help stop the spread of COVID-19, the Ontario government is encouraging everyone to download the new COVID Alert app on their smart phone from the Apple and Google Play app stores. This app, which is available beginning today, lets users know if they may have been exposed to the virus. It is free, easy and safe to use. The more people who download the app, the more effective it will be in stopping the spread of COVID-19. Work on COVID Alert was initiated in Ontario by the Ontario Digital Service and volunteers at Shopify, and was the foundation of the work by the Government of Canada. The app was developed in consultation with the Privacy Commissioners of Canada and Ontario to ensure the highest level of privacy for everyone using it. "This important, made-in-Ontario COVID Alert app will be a critical part of our case and contact management strategy as more regions in Ontario enter Stage 3 today," said Premier Doug Ford. "This innovative tool was developed by some of the best and brightest minds in our province, working in partnership with Ottawa. As businesses open their doors and schools prepare for September, we need to help stop the spread and keep o thers safe by Long Term downloading this Forecast COVID Alert app." Thursday The COVID Alert High 24 Low 12 app uses Bluetooth technology to detect Friday High 25 when users are near each Low 15 other. If a user tests Saturday High 27 Low 17 Sunday High 25 Low 15 Monday High 29 Low 18 Tuesday High 28 Low 16
positive for COVID-19, they can choose to let other users know without sharing any personal information. Ontarians who receive an exposure alert can then get tested and take action to help keep themselves, their families, and their friends from spreading COVID-19 throughout the community. The app does not collect personal information or health data, and does not know or track the location, name, address, or contacts of any user. "Built with a privacy-first approach, COVID Alert is a safe and easy-to-use tool that Ontarians can download to protect themselves, their loved ones and their community from COVID-19," said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. "This Ontariomade app keeps people informed about being potentially exposed to the virus and allows them to act quickly to stop the spread of the virus. It is a key tool in our case and contact management strategy. I encourage all Ontarians to download the app, as early detection of cases will be important as we continue to carefully reopen more of the province." COVID Alert is a key tool to strengthen Ontario's comprehensive case and contact management strategy, Protecting Ontarians through Enhanced Case and Contact Management. The app supports the efforts of public health units, allowing the province to quickly test, trace and isolate cases of COVID19 to stop the spread of the virus and prepare for any potential outbreaks ― without sharing any personal information. "As Ontario safely and gradually reopens, we continue to take a digital-first
approach to delivering simpler, faster, better services to support Ontarians, including the C O V I D Alert app, which will leverage technology to protect the health and safety of the people of Ontario," said Peter Bethlenfalvy, President of the Treasury Board. "By making it easier for Ontarians to protect themselves, their loved ones and their communities, we continue to deliver on our commitment to build a smarter government that works for you." If an app user receives a message from COVID Alert that they may have been exposed to the virus, they should follow the public health advice given on the app and get tested. To notify other people if an app user has tested positive for COVID-19, they can enter their one-time key from Ontario's test results website (Ontario.ca/covidresults) into the app. A message will then be sent to other app users who have been within two metres of them for at least 15 minutes within the past 14 days, without sending any Cont’d on P.2
In the News this week (click on the link to read)
! Mental disorders affect more than half of COVID-19 survivors: study ! Cutting calories no more: New guidelines call for fundamental shift in obesity treatment ! 'Too many are selfish': U.S. nears 5 million virus cases ! Aloha! Canadians will soon be able to visit Hawaii without having to quarantine
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CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, August 6, 2020
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Ontario Releases Plan for Safe Reopening of Schools in September Province Providing Critical Investments and Resources to Keep Students and Staff Safe The Ontario government is announcing the safe reopening of schools for in-class instruction beginning this September. The government has unveiled a plan that prioritizes the health and safety of students and staff, and provides school boards with unprecedented resources and flexibility, while accommodating regional differences in trends of key public health indicators. This plan was developed in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the COVID-19 Command Table and paediatric experts. Details on the safe restart of the 20202021 school year were provided today by Premier Doug Ford, Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, and Dr. Barbara Yaffe, Associate Chief Medical Officer of Health. Elementary schools (Kindergarten to Grade 8) will reopen provincewide, with in-class instruction five days a week. Secondary schools with lower risk will reopen with a normal daily schedule, five days a week, while most secondary schools will start the school year in an adapted model of part-time attendance with class cohorts of up to 15 students alternating between attending in-person and online. Students from Grade 4-12 and school staff will be required to wear masks. “It's been hard on families to balance work and child care, while kids have been separated from friends and other kids their own age. We want to get our kids back to school, but it
has to be done safely," said Premier Ford. "That's why we've worked with our public health experts, Ontario Health and the medical experts at SickKids to develop a plan that ensures students can return to the classroom five days a week in a way that protects the health and safety of our children, teachers, and school staff." Parents will continue to have the option to enroll their children in remote delivery, which respects their fundamental role in making the final determination of whether they feel safe with their children returning to school. Based on the best medical advice available, the province is implementing additional public health protocols to keep students and staff safe when they return to school in September. To support the implementation of these protocols, the government is providing over $300 million in targeted, immediate, and evidence-informed investments, including: ! $30 million for teacher staffing to support supervision, keeping classes small and other safety related measures; ! $50 million to hire up to 500 additional school-focused nurses in public health units to provide rapid-response support to schools and boards in facilitating public health and preventative measures, including screening, testing, tracing and mitigation strategies; ! Over $23 million to provide testing capacity to help keep schools safe; ! $75 million in funding to hire over 900 additional custodians and purchase cleaning
COVID Alert Available for Download Cont’d from P.1 information that identifies the user, or the time and place of exposure. To stay safe as more of the province reopens, Ontarians should continue to follow public health guidelines including physical distancing with people not in their social circle, wearing a face covering if physical distancing is a challenge, washing hands thoroughly and frequently, and if anyone thinks they have COVID-19 or have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19, get tested. COVID Alert is available for free use and download from the Apple and Google Play app stores. All aspects of C O V I D Alert are completely voluntary. Ontarians can choose whether to download the app, whether to use the app after downloading it, and whether to notify others if they test positive for COVID-19. COVID Alert does not collect any
personal information, health information, or location data. It uses Bluetooth technology to send out encrypted codes to other nearby app users and was built using the Apple/Google framework for exposure notification to ensure that it leverages global best practices to protect privacy. COVID Alert is a Digital First Smart Initiative, one of many cross-government projects that focus on better outcomes and improving the customer experience. The Government of Canada is also working with the other provinces and territories to get their jurisdictions on board with the app in the coming weeks and months. In addition to his responsibilities as President of the Treasury Board, Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy is now overseeing Ontario’s efforts to lead digital and data transformation for the people of Ontario, including oversight of the Ontario Digital Service.
supplies for schools; ! $40 million to clean school buses, to ensure that students are in a thoroughly cleaned transportation environment; ! $10 million for health and safety training for occasional teachers, who have historically not been covered by professional development that is offered to permanent teachers; ! $10 million to support special needs students in the classroom; and ! $10 million to support student mental health. This funding is in addition to a $25 million investment in mental health and technology, which will see an additional $10 million dedicated to mental health staff, resources, and programs, as well as $15 million in technology funding to support the procurement of over 35,000 devices for Ontario's students to support their synchronous learning in-school and beyond. "This plan reflects the best medical and scientific advice with a single aim: to keep your child safe," added Minister Lecce. "While this plan will continue to evolve to respond to the changing threat of COVID-19, we will remain constant and consistent in investing in the resources, staffing, and cleaning supports, and strict health and safety protocols to keep our communities and our classrooms safe." The Ministry of Education has received clear and compelling public health guidance to inform the delivery of instruction for boards for the 2020-2021 school year. These decisions are adaptable to changing public health situations and were based on the rigorous and datainformed guidance of leading medical, epidemiological, and paediatric leaders in the province. "Based on the current data, we are seeing that overall instances of COVID-19 are declining in Ontario. When considering the health of the whole child, and as long as this trend continues, we believe that with the appropriate measures and strategies in place to handle potential outbreaks and prevent spread, schools are expected to be a safe place for Ontario's students and staff who attend in person," said Dr. David Williams, Chief Cont’d on P.5
Wash your hands
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, August 6, 2020
Chapleau Moments by
Michael J. Morris In the midst of the dog days of Summer as we experience a heat wave here in Cranbrook B.C. I have been reflecting on names I have been called --- some of them anyway. Recently as I was reading a message from one of my former students from Chapleau High School on Facebook, it struck me that I have sure been called an awful lot of names over the past 50 years or so. Growing up I was simply Michael or Mike, my mother , Muriel (Hunt) Morris and my grandparents George and Edythe Hunt and Harry and Lil Morris being the only people who always called me Michael. When I became a newspaper reporter in 1964, bylines were so important and Michael was used in them except at the Saskatoon StarPhoenix where the legendary managing editor P.V. Wade made me Mike Morris, but he usually called me by my last name, as in "Morris, get in here now!" After I started teaching at Chapleau High School, I became "Mr Morris" and had great
As Michael CHS student 1950s
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"CHIEF" stuck as nickname for 50 years as decided by 1970-71 Chapleau Midgets hockey team difficulty adapting to it. I still recall telling Robert Fife, now the Ottawa Bureau Chief of The Globe and Mail one day that my name was Michael not Mr but not much I could do about it.As most readers will know, Bob is a graduate of Chapleau High School. The principal of the day J.B. Walsh would come into the staff room and sternly say, "Mr. Morris, my office now!" Just a shade of difference between Mr Wade and Mr. Walsh. Shortly after I started teaching, the 197071 Chapleau Midgets hockeyteam fired their coach (yes, they fired him) and hired me. At a practice the late Keith McAdam one night, said, "Hey, MJ...!" and before he got any further in no uncertain terms I told the team I was "Mr Morris" to them. I had really adapted quickly to being a Mr. Teaching high school will do that to you. I stormed out of the dressing room having made my point, lit a cigarette, and listened through the door to the players talk it over. They really did not think Mr sounded right, but what to call me so that I wouldn't lose it again. The late Lionel Corston, my next door neighbour and First Nations person spoke up and said, "Let's call him Chief. He's the chief and we are the Indians." Immediately they all agreed. (I use the word Indians totally in the context of the dressing room conversation.) The dressing room door opened and led by team captain Jamie Doyle, who had hired me, they marched past, each one saying, "Hi Chief" with the mischievous smiles that only kids can display when they have won a round. What could I do? The name stuck, at first just used by hockey players, then much more widely, However, like most teachers I was called Mr. Morris, at least to my face, or Sir, as in "Sir said..." How did I deal with it when people asked me what I preferred to be called over the years. I have simply replied that whatever makes them comfortable. Obviously Chief brings back some of the fondest memories while coaching those Midgets who were so much a part of my life 50 years ago, and for Lionel Corston who died far too young. At College of the Rockies, it was a pretty informal environment, and I was usually called Michael. In the past fifteen years I have a new one. My best friend calls me "Bud" as in "what's up today Bud?" when he contacts me on Facebook or phone or with a text. By the way, since 2015 I have been Michael J. Morris, with my cousin Michael K. McMullen, as our book 'The Chapleau Boys Go
To War' was published. Enough already. I am going for a walk before it gets too hot, and by the way, Chapleau has always been famous for its nicknames!!!! My email is mj.morris@live,ca,,, a few people call me MJ!!!
As Michael at College of the Rockies
AS "Bud" at Cocoa Beach Florida
As "Chief' in 1970
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, August 6, 2020
REPORT from OTTAWA Rapport d’Ottawa by/par
Carol Hughes Federal member of Parliament Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing
I’ll be the first to admit I don’t much like wearing a mask. They are uncomfortable and can be hot too, but the purpose they are meant to serve is compelling enough to make the exercise worthwhile. What is difficult to accept is the notion that people are so opposed to this that they are willing to argue to great lengths against the idea as an affront to their personal liberties or see the whole exercise as some form of a conspiracy. While there are valid medical reasons some individuals cannot wear a mask, being asked to wear one while occupying public indoor spaces enrages some people to the point that they become aggressive which is disrespectful and unacceptable. Masks are not common in western society, but there are parts of the world where they were regularly employed well before the COVID-19 pandemic. In places like Japan, you often see people wearing one in public because they are trying to contain an illness, such as a cold, so that
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Why I (happily) wear a mask others don’t catch it. This is the same reason people are being asked to wear masks now. While this seems like a simple enough request from our health officials, the response from the public has been uneven. I have received a great deal of correspondence about masks from those who believe the science behind the idea and those who question it. In some instances, the message is charged with strong sentiments from those concerned about others who aren’t complying with local regulations, or those who feel they shouldn’t be forced to comply. It is my belief that we should follow the advice of health officials and the science they rely on to arrive at their recommendations. Basing our decisions on non-medical opinion and outlier advice, such as that which is widely available on social media, is not advisable. Advice aside, the strong emotions attached to the subject aren’t making things easier, especially for those who work in businesses and other public-facing spaces where people are being required to wear face coverings. Although it is someone’s right to refuse to wear a mask indoors in public spaces, it is also the right of business owners and staff at public venues to ask that person to leave the space. Keep in mind that entering a public space is a privilege, not a right.
While the issue is much more politically charged in the United States, some of that is present in Canada too. This seems to be especially noticeable when it comes to an individual arguing about their right to do what pleases them as opposed to what is being asked of them in support of those around them. It’s easy to be confused about the nature of our country with so much cultural influence arriving from our bigger neighbour to the south. Canada is based on the notion of Peace, Order, and Good Government. Too many have been exposed to the American motto of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. The difference is noticeable, especially in moments like these when we are being asked to comply with a public health measure intended to protect the most vulnerable to the pandemic, our medical system, and the professionals who provide that care. The pandemic is testing many aspects of our society. We are adapting to changing conditions and have done a great job on many fronts. Masks are the latest measure we are being asked to employ and if enough us do so we will reap the benefits. While you may not agree with the need to do so, or the fact that some individuals cannot wear them for medical reasons, it is never the wrong time to be kind, patient, and respectful.
Pourquoi je porte (volontiers) un masque Je serais la première à admettre que je n’aime pas beaucoup porter un masque. Ils sont inconfortables et peuvent aussi donner chaud, mais la fonction qu’ils sont censés accomplir est suffisamment convaincante pour que l’exercice en vaille la peine. Il est difficile toutefois d’accepter que des gens s’opposent tellement à l’idée qu’ils sont prêts à la contester radicalement comme un affront à leur liberté personnelle ou à considérer l’ensemble de l’exercice comme une forme de conspiration. Bien qu’il existe des raisons médicales valables pour lesquelles certaines personnes ne peuvent pas porter de masque, il y a quelques personnes qui s’enragent au point qu’elles deviennent agressives lorsqu’on leur demande d’en porter un dans des établissements publics , ce qui est irrespectueux et inacceptable. Les masques ne sont pas communs dans la société occidentale, mais ils étaient portés régulièrement dans certaines régions du monde bien avant la pandémie de COVID 19. Au Japon, par exemple, on voit fréquemment des gens en porter un en public pour tenter de contenir une maladie, comme un rhume, afin de réduire la propagation. C’est exactement pour cette raison que l’on demande aux gens de porter un masque maintenant. Bien que cette demande de la part de nos responsables de la santé semble assez simple, la réponse du public est inégale.
J’ai reçu beaucoup de correspondance au sujet des masques de la part de ceux qui croient en la science sur laquelle repose cette idée, et de ceux qui la mettent en doute. Dans certains cas, le message exprime avec ardeur les sentiments de ceux qui trouvent inquiétant le non-respect des gens qui ne respecte pas la règlementation sur le port du masque, ou de ceux qui contestent l’obligation de se conformer à cette règlementation. Je crois que nous devrions suivre les conseils des responsables de la santé et les données scientifiques sur lesquelles ils s’appuient pour formuler leurs recommandations. Il n’est pas sage de fonder nos décisions sur des opinions non médicales ou des conseils aberrants, comme ceux qui circulent sur les médias sociaux. Mis à part les conseils, les émotions intenses liées au sujet ne facilitent pas les choses, surtout pour ceux qui travaillent dans des entreprises et autres lieux publics où on doit porter des couvre visages. Bien que l’on ait le droit de refuser de porter un masque dans les espaces publics intérieurs, les propriétaires et le personnel des entreprises dans les lieux publics ont également le droit de demander à cette personne de quitter les lieux. N’oublions pas que l’accès à un établissement public est un privilège et non un droit. Si la question est beaucoup plus chargée
politiquement aux États Unis, elle est aussi présente en partie au Canada. Cela semble particulièrement évident lorsqu’une personne revendique son droit d’agir à sa guise par opposition à ce qu’on lui demande de faire par respect des autres. Il est facile de perdre de vue la nature de notre pays avec l’influence culturelle de notre grand voisin du Sud. Le Canada est fondé sur la paix, l’ordre et la bonne gouvernance. Trop de gens ont été exposés au concept américain de la vie, de la liberté et de la poursuite du bonheur. La différence est perceptible, surtout dans des moments comme celui ci où l’on nous demande de respecter une mesure de santé publique destinée à protéger les plus vulnérables à la pandémie, notre système médical et les professionnels qui prodiguent ces soins. La pandémie met à l’épreuve bien des aspects de notre société. Nous nous adaptons aux conditions changeantes et avons fait un excellent travail sur de nombreux fronts. Les masques sont la plus récente mesure que l’on nous demande d’adopter, et si nous l’appliquons suffisamment, nous en récolterons le fruit. Même si l’on conteste la nécessité de suivre les directives, ou le fait que certaines personnes ne peuvent pas porter de masque pour des raisons médicales, la gentillesse, la patience et le respect sont toujours de mise.
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, August 6, 2020
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Ontario Releases Plan for Safe Reopening of Schools in September Cont’d from P.2 Medical Officer of Health. "We will continue to closely monitor the situation to ensure the safety of students and staff and will be prepared to transition to alternative options should circumstances change." "As a society, we've made an important shift in the dialogue about our children and the adverse health impacts of school closures," says Dr. Ronald Cohn, President and CEO of SickKids. "While we recognize that COVID-19 will be with us for some time, continuing to stay home from school has become untenable for many children, youth and families. Effective, evidence-based strategies can help promote the safety of students, teachers, school staff and families as they return to school." The Ministry of Education will continue working closely with public health and school boards to monitor and report on the health status of school communities, which is part of the government's outbreak management plan. This plan, which was developed with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of the Solicitor General and the Ministry of Health, outlines clear protocols and authorities of the multiple agencies and organizations involved in the public health landscape. In the event of positive cases of COVID-19 among students, parents, teachers, or
Practice Social Distancing Call 705-864-2579 chaexpress@sympatico.ca
other staff, these protocols will enable immediate action by health and education sector officials to identify, track, and mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in the education system. Every school board will have communication protocols in place to keep families informed. Since June, school boards have been planning for three models of instruction for the 2020-2021 school year: conventional delivery, adapted instruction, and remote instruction, bolstered by live, dynamic synchronous learning. As the public health situation unfolds through the course of the school year, boards will continue to rely on these three models to respond nimbly and pragmatically to local public health dynamics. Over the summer, students and families took advantage of expanded summer learning across the province. Over 150,000 students enrolled in high school programs, including more than 21,000 students who took Reach Ahead credits. Elementary students participated in literacy and numeracy programs and students with special education needs and mental health concerns are participating in new targeted and transition programs in preparation for the coming school year. The government will be releasing a Policy/Program Memorandum (PPM) to school boards to outline the requirements for educators and board staff in utilizing synchronous learning as part of remote and online forms of instruction during the school year. As part of Bill 197, the government enabled a doublecohort of students in the p r o v i n c e ’s d e m o n s t r a t i o n schools for the 2020-2021 school year, which will provide critical support and learning for students with severe learning needs. This was in direct response to the potential learning and development loss resulting from the school closure as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. On June 19, 2020, the government released a provincial reopening guidance plan to school boards and asked boards to prepare their own restart plans for the upcoming school year, which they will present to the Ministry of Education in early August. The Ministry of Government and Consumer Services will supply key
personal protective equipment and cleaning supplies to schools. Supplies needed for September are ready to be delivered to schools by mid-August. Prior to school starting, School Mental Health Ontario will provide school boards with a professional learning framework and toolkit to support the mental health of all students that can be tailored at the board and school levels for different audiences. The professional learning will have a strong focus on building students’ social-emotional learning skills so that they can build resilience, manage their stress and build positive relationships. On March 20, 2020, the Ministry of Education unveiled the Learn at Home / Apprendre à la maison portal, which provides online resources for families and students while schools remain closed. Parents and guardians still have until August 31, 2020 to apply for Support for Families. Under this program, parents or guardians of children between 0-12 years old, or up to 21 years old for children and youth with special needs, are eligible for a one-time payment, per child, to purchase educational materials to support learning at home.
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, August 6, 2020
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Ontario Weather Review: July 2020
Record-Breaking Heat
Temperatures and Precipitation In July, Ontario experienced warmer than normal temperatures throughout the province with anomalies ranging between 1 and 4°C. Moosonee Airport reached the highest mean temperature ever recorded in the area, shattering the previous record of 18.9°C held in 1959. Stations Toronto City (25.4°C) and Kapuskasing Airport (20.2°C) also reported notably high mean temperatures. Ontario was affected by three heat events: from the beginning of the month to the 10th, the 17th to the 19th and the 25th to the 27th. On July 9th, humidity made it feel like 42 in Toronto, 41 in Windsor, 43 in Sarnia, and 40 in Ottawa. Most of the province received belownormal precipitation amounts; anomalies ranged from normal to half the expected amounts. However, this is not representative of the precipitation patterns for some areas as parts of the North received well-above-normal precipitation amounts, with anomalies of +25 to +75%. Despite the small monthly totals for most of the province, some intense rainfall events from thunderstorms and rain showers are worth mentioning below in the Significant Events section. Significant Events July 3: Violent Storm in Northern Ontario A violent storm struck Weagamow Lake First Nation (also known as North Caribou Lake FN), 500 km north of Thunder Bay on Friday afternoon. There was damage to many roofs, small structures, and vehicles, and a large number of trees were knocked down. July 4: Hailstorm in Temiskaming Shores A violent hailstorm struck Temiskaming Shores / New Liskeard late Saturday evening, damaging dozens of homes and vehicles. July 8: Heavy Rain in Toronto A severe thunderstorm struck the west
end of Toronto Wednesday afternoon. Gusty winds estimated to be in excess of 90 km/h uprooted large trees in multiple places, including High Park and the neighborhood of York. There was extensive street flooding in multiple locales as well, including High Park, Queensway, Black Creek Blvd and Lakeshore Blvd. Sixty-five (65) mm of rainfall was recorded in 30 minutes by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) station at Westmount Park. A flood warning was issued by the TRCA, and Black Creek broke its banks in several places. At the height of the storm, Toronto Hydro reported 45,000 customers were without power. July 10-11: Rain in the South; Thunderstorm in Hawkesbury Thunderstorms affected most of southern and central Ontario beginning Friday afternoon and into the early hours of Saturday. The main impact was heavy rain which caused local flooding. There was a report of 62 mm in 55 minutes in Waterdown near Hamilton. Flooding also occurred on the westbound QEW just west of Dixie Avenue. While most of the precipitation tapered off during the evening hours, some areas along the north shore of Lake Erie continued to receive rainfall into Saturday afternoon. Road washouts were reported in areas near Dutton; fields were flooded in Norfolk County. Rainfall amounts well exceeded the 50 mm in 24 hours mark in multiple regions across southern Ontario, with even a couple of Community Collaborative Rain, Hail & Snow Network (CoCoRAHS) reports close to 150 mm. There were also locally strong winds resulting in downed trees, and a report of a landspout tornado in Milton on the Friday. Meanwhile over eastern Ontario, a brief but intense thunderstorm caused significant damage in the town of Hawkesbury late on Friday afternoon. Trees were toppled, a few cars
crushed, power lines downed – all in the space of a few minutes near 5 PM. Later that night and into the early hours of July 11, the remnants of Tropical Storm Fay, which came ashore in New Jersey and then tracked northward towards southern Quebec, provided up to 25 mm of rain to eastern Ontario, especially along the St. Lawrence River, but nowhere near the amounts that had been expected. July 19: Squall Line across Southern Ontario with Multiple Tornadoes A line of thunderstorms originating in Minnesota roared across Michigan and Lake Huron overnight and crossed southwestern Ontario beginning mid-morning on Sunday. By late morning, a squall line had clearly developed and showed signs of rotation on radar, prompting tornado warnings for multiple regions between London, Listowel, Halton, and Peel. Numerous damage reports were received from this squall line, and subsequent investigations by the Northern Tornadoes Project (NTP) of Western University concluded that there had been six tornadoes, in addition to a number of downbursts. Fortunately, most of the damage was to trees and farm buildings, with the exception of the Belmont tornado, where some house roof damage was observed. July 29: Locally Heavy Rain Southeast of Ottawa A line of thunderstorms provided a good soaking for a narrow band of mostly rural land southeast of Ottawa Wednesday evening. Radar indicated accumulations of 50 to 100 mm from Barrhaven to Casselman and east towards Montreal. Those numbers were confirmed by volunteer reports in the area including a notable one from St. Isidore with 106 mm. Outlook for August Temperatures are forecast to continue to be above normal across the province, but probably not to the same degree as during the month of July. There is little clear signal regarding precipitation, with the exception of a wet beginning to the month for southern Ontario and likewise a dry beginning in the Northwest.
Call 705-864-2579 chaexpress@sympatico.ca
I have an uncle that I love dearly who has always been extremely supportive, especially since I joined the world of politics. He stays abreast of what's happening in Algoma-Manitoulin in the news and comments on this weekly column from time to time. He's a wonderful fellow with a great sense of humour but he does have some pet peeves. One of them has to do with people/businesses jumping the gun and getting too far ahead of themselves. One big one he's had for years was a certain national retail catalogue that used to deliver its catalogues earlier and earlier. You could hear his roars about getting the Christmas Wish Book in July or similar out of season early publications. The same thing would happen if a local store started putting up Christmas decorations before Trick or Treaters have even knocked on his door. Well at the risk of pushing my uncle's buttons, this week I am raising the issue of 'Back to School' while it's still July. In truth, by the time he finishes reading this week's column, I think he will understand why I'm raising this issue at this time. During this pandemic, parents have had their hands full juggling parenting and making sure school-age kids keep up with remote learning, all the while managing their own workloads and responsibilities. Ontarians can be proud of how we've stepped up to the plate as a people when called upon. They deserve a provincial government that will step up with a plan for September and the funding schools need to protect children and their teachers from COVID-19.
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, August 6, 2020 - Page 7 Like a cat, time has a way of creeping up on through a COVID-19 recovery school advisory us. To date, Doug Ford and Education Minister group; Addressing the needs of students from Stephen Lecce have failed to provide a true plan or · the funding necessary to ensure children and youth Indigenous, black and racialized communities that can return to schools and child care centres in a safe are disproportionately affected by COVID-19; School boards have been told to be ready and supportive way. It's simply not good enough for a government to dump this monumental for any scenario including: online learning only, a challenge on school boards without providing any hybrid model in which children attend class in additional resources or funding from the province. person only on alternating days and finally a full We've heard a lot of talk from the Ford government resumption of a standard school day. This sort of about re-opening schools. But that is all it is - just planning is like taking a photo with a wide-angle talk. A solid plan was needed weeks ago. And now, lens. It may be all encompassing, but in the end, the what parents need is real action and proper funding photo lacks the needed detail on the decided subject. to get our children safely back in school. My office has had so many emails, calls and Medical authorities, mental health professionals, educators and child development letters about the need for reliable, affordable highexperts have all told us that children and youth speed broadband services, like they have across NEED to be in school full time - five days each most of the province. Not everyone in Algomaweek. This is a fact, not just best 'practice advice.' Manitoulin had broadband caps removed for It is necessary for their own physical and mental billing as in other parts of the province. The North and many Indigenous communities have been left wellbeing and development. The NDP promised at the beginning of the out. Here in our own Algoma-Manitoulin, many last session to not only oppose but to propose, and students cannot access the broadband level of we have stood by that commitment. We can't wait service that they need to continue their studies. New Democrats have long called for any longer. That's why, rather than just criticizing, we tabled a motion in the Legislature asking the expanded broadband. And now that we are in a Ford Government to implement an emergency position where we truly NEED it, it's not there. action plan to help get children and youth safely This makes it especially difficult for school boards back to class five days a week in the fall. Our plan to organize across our vast northern regions. As I said before, I've run the risk of setting includes: · Putting enough teachers, education off my dear uncle. But I know he will forgive me workers and alternative classrooms in place for all and agree that the time has passed for the students to return to school five days a week, in government to simply rely upon the general, vague instructions that Ford issued at the end of June. It's small, safe classrooms; · Paid sick leave and parental leave in any time to implement a solid back to school plan that people can count on. modified return; As always, please feel free to contact my · Immediate funding to stabilize the child office about these issues, or any other provincial care sector to prevent fee increases and layoffs; · Increased funding for teacher hiring, matters. You can reach my constituency office by email at mmantha-co@ndp.on.ca or by phone at bussing, school repairs and cleaning; · Real collaboration with frontline education 705-461-9710 or Toll free 1-800-831-1899. workers, students, parents and school boards
Restaurants, grocery stores and gyms will have more safety restrictions than public elementary schools in September While educators want to be back with their students this fall, the government's plan for a return to school falls far short of ensuring the safety of public elementary students and educators. “Schools are supposed to be safe places for children. This plan does not adequately address the safety of students or staff,” said Sam Hammond, President of the Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario (ETFO). “Restaurants, grocery stores and gyms will have more safety restrictions in place than elementary schools given the insufficient funding allocated in this plan.” “The successful advocacy and organizing of parents, educators and others has forced the
government to add some additional investment to the reopening of schools in September. While it's a step in the right direction, the funding to support the plan falls far short of what schools need to keep students and educators safe in September.” ETFO is concerned that the government is not reducing elementary class sizes to allow for two-metre physical distancing, nor requiring students in Kindergarten to Grade 3 to wear masks. “Two-metre physical distancing and mask wearing have been required for indoor activities across the province. COVID-19 does not distinguish between a grocery store and a classroom, between a coffee shop or school hallways.”
“Kindergarten to Grade 3 students are more active and have less self-regulation and this will make physical distancing more difficult. That's why smaller classes and mask requirements for all students are necessary to ensure the safety and health of everyone in elementary schools,” added Hammond. “The government must provide the funding necessary to allow for appropriate physical distancing in schools and ensure that all the required measures and supports are in place.” ETFO represents 83,000 elementary public school teachers, occasional teachers and education professionals across the province. Its Building Better Schools education agenda can be viewed at BuildingBetterSchools.ca.
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, August 6, 2020
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Teaching children about money in challenging times
(NC) Many Canadian families are dealing with financial difficulties of various kinds because of COVID-19. For parents, it is more important than ever to teach our children about money. All habits, including financial ones, are difficult to change. That is why it is important to help young people develop good financial habits starting at an early age. A recent study by the Organisation for
Economic Co-operation and Development indicates that teenagers who talk about money and finances with their parents are better able to build a financially secure future for themselves. The earlier children understand the value of money, the better prepared they will be to manage their personal finances responsibly. There are many excellent apps and resources to help you engage your children and make financial education a fun experience. The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada has a host of free, unbiased resources and tools to get you started. When your children are younger, start by teaching them basic concepts, such as counting and recognizing coins and bills. As they get older, continue the conversation around more complex topics. These include making a budget, the importance of having an emergency fund, and the
concepts of income, expenses, savings and credit. When talking about saving with children, discuss goals that appeal to them. For example, you can talk about how to save up money for a video game or a special activity they want to attend. When they are teenagers, introduce concepts like using credit and managing debt. Opening a bank account for your children can be another way of helping them learn to manage money. They can develop the habits of monitoring their account balance regularly and planning their spending. Take every appropriate opportunity to teach your children the difference between needs and wants. When out shopping or on vacation, stress the difference between their needs and their desires. Some children may think their parents have unlimited financial resources. When you involve them in family finances, they will learn more about money. Find more information in the “Teaching children about money” section of canada.ca/money.
Top homework tips for kids of all ages open are more accountable to their work—it’s easy kit for teachers to use in classes across the country. to see how they are doing their work, and you’re Ask your child’s teacher about how they’ll be using the 2021 Census Teacher’s Kit this year. around to provide help and answer questions. Choose a consistent time. Set aside half an hour for a break after school, then it’s time to get to work. Tackling homework before dinner means less time to stress and more time to finish it before bed. Setting a consistent time helps create a habit that will allow your child to have a consistent and balanced Thomas Jefferson schedule. M a k e i t m o r e Start advertising your products and services this week approachable. Some students to reach over 1700 readers. may have one subject they dread more than others. To help pique Contact your media representative today! their interest, try relating homework to everyday life. 705-864-2579 Statistics Canada is a great resource for this—you can use their free online information about your community to help your child learn about populations, local history or data management in a way that’s less abstract than plain numbers on a page. This year, in preparation for the 2021 Census, Statistics Canada has created a curriculumaligned classroom-ready activity
The man who stops advertising to save money is like the man who stops the clock to save time.
(NC) While lots of kids love school, it can be hard to feel the same way about homework. Here are some A+ homework tips to help your child reach their full potential. Designate their own workspace. Whether they’re 6 years old or 16, make sure your child has a dedicated workspace for their homework. If they have a clean and consistent place to work, it’s easier to get started. One pro tip is that students who work in the
Practice Social Distancing
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS CHAPLEAU EXPRESS
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, August 6, 2020
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New confirmed case of COVID-19 reported by Public Health Sudbury & Districts Public Health Sudbury & Districts is reporting a new COVID-19 case in a resident in our service area (Greater Sudbury, Sudbury District, and Manitoulin District). Through contact tracing, Public Health will notify all close contacts directly. If you are not contacted by Public Health, you are not considered a close contact. Details of confirmed case(s) Case number: 90 Age: 70s; Male; No travel and no contact with a known case (unknown exposure) Self-isolating Sudbury District Gatherings, physical distancing, and social circles Although permissible for up to 50 people indoors and 100 outdoors, non-essential inperson gatherings of any size should be limited. Limiting our contacts and in-person interactions as much as possible is critical in reducing t r a n s m i s s i o n o f C O V I D - 1 9 . Wi t h f e w exceptions, gatherings are currently maxed at 50 people indoors and 100 outdoors. Unless people are from the same household or social circle, they should keep 2 metres (6 feet) apart and wear a face covering if distancing is not possible. Face
coverings must be worn in all indoor public spaces, and they must also be worn in other indoor spaces where distancing is not possible. Close contact is permitted within “social circles” and among members from the same household. A social circle can only include up to 10 people and must always be with the same people. You can only belong to one social circle. Prevent the spread of COVID-19 Wash your hands often and when visibly dirty for 15 seconds. Cover your cough or sneeze with your arm or a tissue, throw the tissue in the garbage and wash your hands. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. to practise physical distancing, because any close contact could be a possible exposure to COVID-19. Masks or face coverings must be worn in all indoor public places in Sudbury and districts, and they should also be worn in other settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained. Avoid contact with people who are sick. Self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-
Stevens: Legions need urgent operational funding to survive, not training grants Jennie Stevens (St. Catharines), NDP critic for Veterans, Legions and Military Affairs, says Doug Ford’s re-announcement of existing capital grants will do nothing to save legions across Ontario that are on the brink of shutting down permanently due to the impact of COVID19. Stevens says Ontario’s legions desperately need operational funding to make it through the pandemic. “Veterans and legions don’t need program support or fundraising training – which is what this announcement will provide. They need an urgent lifeline to cover operational costs like rent, mortgage payments or the power bills until they can fully re-open their services, which are so valuable to the communities they serve. “As a proud legion member from a military family, I know the value of local legions and the services they offer. Ford’s announcement shows he just doesn’t understand what they need.” Stevens wrote to the premier three months ago urging him to help legions to make it through the crisis and explained that what they
needed was operational funding support to avoid shutting down. Doug Ford’s announcement Wednesday is not new money. It is a rebranding of the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Grow and Capital Fund as the “OTF Resilient Communities Fund” which only offers grants for fundraising training and professional development that fails to address the urgent needs of legions. “Yet again Doug Ford refuses to listen. Legions asked for operational support to get through the crisis, and what they got today was just a renamed grant program that will do nothing to save the legions struggling to survive. “Legions don’t need or want training on fundraising or advice on ‘re-imagining’ service delivery through public-private partnerships. Ford is telling legions they’re on their own, and won’t step up with the funding they desperately need right now. Ford likes to talk about how much he loves legions, but in their time of need he’s abandoned them.” It’s estimated that 124 Royal Canadian Legion branches are likely to close permanently, and another 357 are facing financial hardship.
19. Stay home if you are unwell and get tested. If you have a COVID-19 symptom, get tested. People who are asymptomatic, who are concerned that they have been exposed to COVID-19, or those who are at risk of exposure to COVID-19 through their employment are also encouraged to contact an assessment centre and get tested. Travel information: All residents who are planning to travel should be aware that COVID-19 is still circulating at different levels around the province. The safest options are to stay in the area of your home community or to stay in the region. For anyone who has recently travelled, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada website for updates on COVID-19 exposures. If you think you have travelled somewhere (within or outside of Ontario) where you may have been exposed to COVID-19, call us at 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200). Anyone who has travelled outside of Canada is directed to self-isolate for 14 days from their arrival in Canada. Updates about COVID-19 testing, confirmed cases, and outbreaks in Greater Sudbury, the District of Sudbury, and the District of Manitoulin are posted online. For more information or if you have questions or concerns, please visit phsd.ca/COVID-19 or call Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200). Visit Ontario’s website to learn more about the province’s response to COVID-19.
Vehicle Decals Safety Signage Posters
705-864-4376 jnsigns@gmail.com
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, August 6, 2020
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Last weeks solutions MOMENTS IN TIME On Aug. 19, 1960, in the USSR, captured American U-2 spy plane pilot Francis Gary Powers is sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for his confessed espionage. Only 18 months into his sentence, the Soviets released him in exchange for Rudolf Abel, a senior KGB spy who was caught and convicted in the U.S. five years earlier.
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, August 6, 2020 R.T.
24 Aberdeen St. S. P.O. Box 214 Chapleau, ON P0M 1K0 Download our APP
Rita T. McKee-Gavan Broker of Record www.rtmckeerealty.com Email: rita@rtmckeerealty.com
Northern Lights Ford Sales Andrew G. McKenzie Travis Gendron Highway 17 North P.O. Box 1033 Wawa, ON. P0S 1K0 Business 705-856-2775 Fax 705-856-4862 tgendron@northernlightsford.ca sales@northernlightsford.ca
Pimii Kamik Gas Bar & Gift Shop Located on the Chapleau Cree First Nation
SUMMER HOURS will be from 7 a.m. - 10 p.m., 7 days a week Drop by and check out our line of Authentic Native Crafts, Unique Gift Ideas, Jewellery, and Gift Certificates TOO! We also carry road trip snacks, which includes Subs, Chips, Pop, plus a whole lot more.
Your Propane Refilling Station
705-864-0781
ALLEMANO, FITZGERALD PASCUZZI & BERLINGIERI Barristers and Solicitors
BERRY’S FREIGHT SERVICES TIMMINS - CHAPLEAU - TIMMINS Monday to Friday: 1 lb. to 10,000 lbs
MICHAEL C. ALLEMANO, B.A., L.L.B.
Monday to Friday
Certified by the Law Society as a Specialist in Real Estate Law P.O. Box 10, P.O. Box 1700, 369 Queen St. E. Suite 103 37 Broadway Avenue, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario Wawa, Ontario P6A 1Z4 P0S 1K0 Phone (705) 942-0142 Phone (705) 856-4970 Fax (705) 942-7188 Fax (705) 856-2713
New at the Library New/Free digital e-resources have been added to the Library's Website for your reading enjoyment while the Library is closed. Something for everyone!
chapleau.olsn.ca Chapleau Figure Skating Club AGM August 18th at 7 pm via Zoom Election of Officers Constitution Please email: CFSCSecretary@outlook.com for zoom ID
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FOR QUALITY SERVICES AT
INEXPENSIVE PRICES GIVE US A CALL AT 1-705-264-4334
Local MARKETPLACE CHAPLEAU SEPTIC AND AGGREGATE SERVICES. Call Chapleau Village Shops 705-864-1114 for appointment . Available year round. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS (A.A).Open discussion meeting every Monday evening. Brunswick House First Nation Band office lounge 7pm. Narcotics Anonymous(N.A) every Tuesday same place same time. NNADAP Worker @ 864-0174 info. Adult Mental Health (16yrs and up) and Addiction Services (all ages) offered at Turning Point. Located at 6 Broomhead Rd. For professional, confidential services, please call 705-864-1919. Open Monday to Friday from 8:30am to noon and 1pm to 4:30pm. Services de santé mentale pour adultes (16 ans et plus) et les services de toxicomanie (tous les âges) offerts à Point décisif. Situé au 6, chemin Broomhead. Contactez-nous au 705-864-1919 pour des services professionnels et confidentiels. Les heures ouvrables sont de 8 h 30 à midi et de 13 h à 16 h 30.
CHADWIC HOME, FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE. Offers shelter, emotional support, and information for women and their children who are in crisis situations. We have a Toll Free Crisis Line which is staffed 24 hours a day. We can arrange for free transportation to the Centre for women who live in the Algoma/Chapleau area. We also offer support to women who live in the communities of Chapleau, White River, Dubreuilville, and Hornepayne through our Outreach Program. Our Outreach Worker travels to those communities to meet with women who need emotional support as well as information about their rights and options. If you need to speak with the Outreach Worker when she is in your community, you can call the Centre at any time to set up an appointment. You do not need to be a resident of the Centre in order to use our services. If you need someone to talk to or if you just need someone to listen, call our Toll Free Crisis line at 1800-461-2242 or you can drop in at the Centre. We are here for you.
NOTICE / AVIS Effective immediately, Chapleau Hydro will no longer be accepting any cans for recycling. À compter de maintenant, Chapleau Hydro n'acceptera plus de canettes pour le recyclage.
Have a great weekend!
BILLIE’S DINER Now has interac and is available for catering.
705-864-2400
8mm & Super 8 mm FILM
SLIDES
PHOTOS
NEGATIVES
SCANNING
705-864-4376
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, August 6, 2020
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Is the CPP projected to be around when you retire? (NC) If retirement is years away, you might wonder what will happen when it’s your time to collect your Canada Pension Plan. Some may be concerned that the funds will not be around when it’s finally their turn to retire – whether that’s today, 20, 50 or 75 years from now. To ease your concerns in these uncertain times, here are a few facts about the CPP fund and the organization that manages it for the long term. CPP Investments was created in 1997 to invest the CPP fund with the aim of earning the best possible returns, without taking unnecessary risk. The organization invests funds that aren’t needed to pay current benefits and is independent from the government. It is their responsibility to help ensure the fund is there for generations of Canadians, and the organization invests with an
eye on the long term. Employing that mindset, the value of the fund’s assets has more than tripled over the last 10 years. And the Office of the Chief Actuary has even verified in its latest report that released in 2019, the Fund is sustainable for the next 75 years, based on the legislated contribution levels. Still, it is important to remember the CPP was never designed to pay for everything in retirement. Actively taking advantage of workplace pensions and other opportunities to save for the long term is a crucial step to creating your ideal retirement lifestyle. While nobody can know what the full impact of COVID-19 will be on the global economy, the organization responsible for investing your retirement contributions has experience successfully managing through shortterm difficulties. With a long-term investing view, a highly diversified portfolio, and a deep bench of talent and expertise, CPP Investments will keep serving Canadians and help ensure the safety of your retirement income. Their work means you will be able to count on a solid foundation for your retirement plans.
Tech expert dispels 5G myths
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(NC) There are many misconceptions going around about 5G. But the truth is the revolutionary wireless technology is a game-changer that’s a major upgrade from the previous 2G, 3G and 4G networks. Varun Kalia, head of mobile communications at LG Electronics Canada explains: “Each evolving network has powered new capabilities, from the first texts, to global roaming, to fast streaming. At LG, we innovate for a better life and, that means we have been planning for the 5G roll out and how it can benefit the lives of our customers from our 5G-ready mobile devices to home appliances and autonomous vehicles.” Here, Kalia breaks down five fast facts to know about 5G. It’s up to 20 times faster than 4G. In theory, 5G can reach speeds of 20 gigabytes per second, compared to the current 4G LTE’s peak speeds. That means it can support many more devices on its network and exchange information at lightning-fast speeds. You’ll see better battery life. Automating daily tasks means we won’t need much of the computing power that drains your battery. Newer 5G devices may have noticeably longer battery life. 5G will power more than phones. 5G has a much lower latency, which is the time it takes for a signal to travel to its destination and back – lag time in simple terms. That’s vital to better enable devices and machines to talk to each other, and will lead to future innovations like autonomous cars. 5G is safe. It emits the same frequencies as current cell phones, wireless headphones and Wi-Fi. It can spur VR and AR. 5G is a foundation for increased use of virtual reality and augmented reality. This will enable immersive experiences for fun and learning.