CHAPLEAU EXPRESS
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Vol. 26, Issue 3, September 23, 2021
Hughes Honoured To Serve Another Term For Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing
V
oters in Algoma-ManitoulinKapuskasing have made the choice to send Carol Hughes back to Ottawa as Member of Parliament for their constituency. The NDP candidate noted the election was unique with the pandemic informing all aspects of her campaign. “This was different, but I was fortunate to have a great team that was willing to take the precautions so we could talk to voters,” said Hughes. “Also, the fact that it was mostly a summer election meant that the last two weeks were crucially important, and I appreciate how many people gave of their free time to help get the result we hoped for.” Hughes had a message for the voters of Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing and for the candidates she ran against. “I'm honoured to have been chosen by the voters. We know we are offering people a good choice, so it's nice to have that validated at the ballot box,” said Hughes. “I'm also honoured
to have shared the ballot with all the candidates who put their names forward. It isn't always easy to stand for election and I respect the commitment of anyone who runs for office.” Hughes feels the next parliament will be similar to the last one, given the minority situation. “No matter what shape this parliament takes, New Democrats will continue to fight for the issues that matter the most,” said Hughes. “My priority remains ensuring the people of
Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing are well represented and that the issues of this riding and Northern Ontario are at the forefront. I am proud of the work my staff and I have done, we always put constituents first and nothing will change there.”
Hughes est honoré de servir un autre mandat pour Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing
L
es électeurs d'Algoma-ManitoulinKapuskasing choisi de réélire Carol Hughes en tant que députée de leur circonscription. La candidate du NPD a fait remarquer que cette élection était unique, la pandémie ayant influencé tous les aspects de sa campagne. "C'était différent, mais Long Term j'ai eu la chance d'avoir Forecast une équipe formidable Thursday qui était prête à prendre High 10 les précautions Low 7 nécessaires pour pouvoir Friday parler aux électeurs", a High 13 déclaré Hughes. "De plus, Low 9 le fait qu'il s'agissait Saturday principalement d'une High Low
13 7
Sunday High 13 Low 8 Monday High 14 Low 8 Tuesday High 13 Low 6
élection d'été signifiait que les deux dernières semaines étaient d'une importance cruciale, et j'apprécie le nombre de personnes qui ont donné de leur temps libre pour aider à obtenir le résultat que nous espérions." Mme Hughes avait un message pour les électeurs d'Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing et pour les candidats contre lesquels elle s'est présentée. "Nous savons que nous offrons un meilleur choix aux gens, et je suis très reconnaissante des résultats aux urnes", a déclaré Mme Hughes. "Je suis également honoré d'avoir partagé le bulletin de vote avec tous les candidats qui se sont présentés. Il n'est pas toujours facile de se présenter aux élections et je respecte l'engagement de tous ceux
qui se présentent." Hughes estime que le prochain parlement sera similaire au précédent, étant donné la situation minoritaire. "Peu importe la forme que prendra ce parlement, les néo-démocrates continueront d'assurer que les enjeux les plus importants seront priorisé", a déclaré Hughes. " Je reste fermement résolu à veiller à ce que les gens d'AlgomaManitoulin-Kapuskasing soient bien représentés et que les enjeux de cette circonscription et du Nord de l'Ontario soient au premier plan. Je suis fier du travail que mon personnel et moi avons accompli, nous avons toujours fait passer les électeurs en premier et rien ne changera à cet égard."
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CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, September 23, 2021- Page 2
Ontario Releases State of Ontario's Natural Resources – Forests 2021 Report confirms Ontario's public forests are sustainably managed The Ontario government has released its '–State of Ontarios Natural Resources Forests 2021 report, providing important information about the health and well-being of our forests, communities and industry. Ontario's Crown Forest Sustainability Act requires the government to report on the state of Ontario's forests at least once every five years. This is Ontario's fifth report. “Sustainable forest management is the foundation of our government's forest sector strategy,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry and Indigenous Affairs. “We're creating jobs and supporting economic growth while protecting our natural resources for future generations.” The 2021 report provides the results of 21 indicators specific to forest condition and forest management, including: · Forest composition, growth, wildlife habitat and forest carbon
· Harvest and regeneration · Public engagement and Indigenous involvement in forest management planning · Forest sector employment and resource revenue sharing with Indigenous communities · Forest sector products and exports · Forest certification, audits and compliance These indicators show that Ontario's forest policy framework ensures resilient and wellmaintained forest resources, protecting the environment and biodiversity of its managed forests. “This report demonstrates that Ontario's forest management plan is working and that wood harvested is sustainably sourced, and our forests continue to be renewed,” said Minister Rickford. “We will continue to work with Indigenous communities, stakeholders and the public to unlock the potential of Ontario's forests through sustainable forest management practices.” The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry
is responsible for managing public forests so that they remain healthy and continue to provide economic, environmental and social benefits to the people of Ontario. The State of Ontario's Natural Resources – Forests 2021 report can be accessed online: https://www.ontario.ca/page/state-ontariosnatural-resources-forest-2021 Forestry was deemed an essential industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing essential forest products for hygiene, food, medical supplies and packaging and shipping materials. The forest sector generated $17.6 billion in revenue from the sale of manufactured goods and services in 2019 and supported approximately 143,000 direct and indirect jobs in 2020. Wood from Ontario's Crown forests is sustainably sourced and renewed after harvest. Wood is a renewable resource and a sustainable – and biodegradable – alternative to single-use plastics.
OBITUARY Leo Patrick Brunette
C.H.S. Reunion Update
It is with heavy hearts that the family announces the unexpected passing of Leo Brunette, at the age of 62 years. Now resting peacefully with his late wife and soulmate Monique Brunette. Dear son of Jack and Daisy Brunette, both predeceased. Loving and caring father of Patrick (Jessica) and Robyn (Cameran). Loving papa to Selena, Leon and Eli and Grandpa to Emmie and Nash. Cherished brother of Karen Perreault (Late Bob), Kim and the late Guy (Smiley). He will be happily remembered by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Leo was a devoted father, friend and known for his involvement in the community, leaving behind great lessons and of course the memory of his infectious laugh. He was happiest when surrounded by nature, fishing on the river and would never pass up the opportunity to lend a helping hand. Friends gathered at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #5, Chapleau on Monday, September 20, 2021 from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. and from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. A private funeral mass was held at Sacred Heart Church on Tuesday, September 21, 2021. Due to current Covid-19 restrictions, masking indoors was mandatory and there was a limited number of guests allowed in the Legion at one time. Again, due to the pandemic restrictions a celebration of life for Leo will be held at a later date. Memorial donations made to a charity of your choosing in lieu of flowers would be appreciated by the family. (Arrangements entrusted to the Kerry Funeral Home, Wawa, 1-800-439-4937). www.kerryfuneralhome.ca
The Chapleau High School Reunion Volunteer Committee is excited to present a new website: www.chsreunion.squarespace.com. Please check out our new site! It will showcase the most up-to- date information. The committee has been busy sourcing out products for your goodie bags, tracking down security for the weekend event, trying to get by-laws amended for visitors travelling with trailers and working diligently to make this reunion great. Provisions are being made to keep this event safe and enjoyable for all attending, taking into account Covid restrictions. Don't forget to send your addresses to Nadia: nadialee0620@gmail.com to ensure you are on the list to attend. It wouldn't be great without you!
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CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, September 23, 2021- Page 3
Chapleau Moments by
Michael J. Morris Dr. G.E. Young died over 10 years ago now, and I have been looking for information to do a column in his memory. I found this one compiled by the late Doug Greig, and with some changes, here is the column in memory of an outstanding Chapleau Citizen. On December 2nd, 1914 George and Mabel Young, residents of Chapleau, celebrated the birth of their second son. He was named George after his father but in true Chapleau tradition his nickname “Ted” was used most. All the years during his practice he was always referred to as “Doctor Young.” This lad attended public and high school in town before leaving in 1936 for Queen's University in Kingston Ontario. After graduation from medical school in 1942, he went to New York City to intern. Dr. Young stated that during his training in New York he was the only Canadian in that class, and as a
Dr Young with his first Buick
Family doctor has special meaning when referring to Dr. G.E. 'Ted' Young an outstanding Chapleau citizen result he was always placed front and centre when doing operations. All the first hand knowledge paid off for Chapleau during the coming years. During that period he had many ring side seats at Madison Square Gardens for boxing events. At that time medical students were sent to be the ring side doctor. In 1944 he got a call from Dr. Crozier in Chapleau asking could he come “and fill in for 6 months.” The six months became a 52 year tenure as a most faithful community physician. Dr. Young practiced medicine daily, and nightly, as he answered the needs of the Chapleau Area. On a personal basis Dr. Young saved the life of my dog Rex who had been hit by a car when I was a kid. My grandmother Edith Hunt called him and he arrived at our place within minutes. He cared for Rex then told me what to do. I followed his orders and Rex lived another 12 years. He often traveled by railroad, by car, airplane, skidoo, dog sled, and even “shank's mare” to lumber camps as far as Renabie Mines to the west, Franz in the north, and Biscotasing in the east. During World War II he looked after the prisoners of war held in the Sultan Area. As the CPR doctor from 1944-1992 he tended both the dreadful injuries from railway accidents as well as the everyday needs of the employees. As a family doctor he ministered to as many as 4 generations in some families. Many local citizens began their association with him literally “from day one” as he delivered over 1,500 babies. His official record as a physician included a number of milestones some of which have brought honors from citizens and government. For many years he was chief of staff
at Lady Minto Hospital. He served as medical officer of health for 20 years. In addition, he was Medical Director of Cedar Grove Lodge until February 1994 where his special rapport with the elderly was so appreciated. In 1994 the Ontario government awarded him with a plaque from William Davis (premier) in recognition of his tenure as coroner from 1944 until 1982. He was honored by the township of Chapleau at a special open house in 1987, where government ministries and community organizations publicly thanks him for his
Dr. Young dedication. . Mansel Robinson was a very capable MC for the occasion. During his presentation he likened Dr. Young to an onion having many layers. Mansel stated with each layer you peeled off another man was presented giving light to all different projects that Dr. Young participated in. Cont’d on P.5
Dr Young and MJM on visit to Creston BC
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, September 23, 2021- Page 4
Les élèves du CSC Nouvelon célèbrent le Jour des Franco-Ontariens!
Toutes les écoles des 12 conseils scolaires francophones de l'Ontario se réuniront virtuellement le vendredi 24 septembre, de 9 h 30 à 11 h, pour célébrer encore ensemble le Jour des FrancoOntariennes et des Franco-Ontariens. Les élèves du Conseil scolaire catholique Nouvelon auront
ainsi la chance de participer à cette méga célébration virtuelle et de fêter leur appartenance à la communauté franco-ontarienne. L'événement sera diffusé en direct, gratuitement et sera disponible en ligne jusqu'au 1er octobre inclusivement au www.MonDrapeauFranco.ca .
Man Fined $2,000 for Illegal Turkey Hunting
The Ontario government would like to remind hunters that wild turkey hunting regulations such as firearms restrictions and the requirement for licences are in place to help sustain the wild turkey populations. Paul Girard of Gravenhurst pleaded guilty to hunting turkey without a licence and was fined $2,000. He also pleaded guilty to an additional count of hunting turkey without a licence, two counts of transporting illegally obtained wildlife and two counts of using a firearm to hunt turkey that is not permitted by regulations; he received a suspended sentence. The firearm was seized and forfeited to the Crown. The court heard that in May 2021, a
conservation officer began the investigation after becoming aware that Girard allegedly harvested two wild turkeys in the Gravenhurst area without a licence. The investigation found that Girard shot two turkeys in May of 2020 on a friend’s property. In addition to not having a licence for either bird, the investigation further revealed that Girard was using a shotgun not permitted by regulations. Justice of the Peace William Turtle heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Bracebridge, on August 11, 2021. Conservation officers continue to patrol and protect our natural resources during the current COVID-19 pandemic and would like to remind everyone that by respecting seasons, sanctuaries, bag and possession limits, we all help ensure our natural resources stay healthy. Visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19. To report a natural resource violation or provide information about an unsolved case, members of the public can call the ministry TIPS line toll free at 1-877-847-7667. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222TIPS. For more information about unsolved cases, please visit ontario.ca/mnrftips.
Pendant 90 minutes, le Studio l'Excentricité du collège La Cité deviendra le grand stade virtuel où retentiront en direct des milliers de cris de fierté franco-ontarienne tout en voyageant partout en Ontario! Un impressionnant collectif d'artistes, d'humoristes, de chanteurs, de vidéastes, de danseurs et de créateurs guidera les festivités franco-ontariennes et fera visiter toutes les régions de l'Ontario français! Le programme détaillé est disponible au www.MonDrapeauFranco.ca. De plus, les élèves et membres du personnel des écoles élémentaires et secondaires du CSC Nouvelon, vêtus de vert et de blanc, auront la chance de participer à des activités afin de souligner leur fierté franco-ontarienne. Plusieurs écoles procéderont également à la levée du drapeau tout en respectant les mesures de distanciation sociale. La journée provinciale des FrancoOntariennes et des Franco-Ontariens est célébrée officiellement depuis 2010. La date retenue pour cette célébration — le 25 septembre — coïncide avec l'anniversaire du drapeau franco-ontarien, qui a flotté pour la première fois en 1975 à Sudbury. Les élèves et le personnel du CSC Nouvelon sont fiers de pouvoir célébrer avec entrain, le jour du 46e anniversaire de notre drapeau. Tout en célébrant notre riche héritage catholique et francophone, cette activité valorisera le dynamisme et l'engagement de nos élèves et de notre personnel, qui tiennent à élargir leur espace francophone et à vivre leur culture pleinement dans la province de l'Ontario. Le Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvelon offre une éducation catholique de langue française reconnue pour son excellence. Avec près de 6 400 élèves répartis dans un réseau de 27 écoles élémentaires, une école virtuelle et 10 écoles secondaires, le CSC Nouvelon offre un milieu propice à l'apprentissage et un programme éducatif de qualité, de la petite enfance à l'âge adulte.
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Chapleau Moments Cont’d from P.3 Friends and patients gathered in May 1992 to surprise him on the 50th anniversary of his graduation as G.E. Young MD and finally on March 31, 1994 another surprise party took place as staff and friends congratulated him on his retirement. Among the old stories enjoyed that evening were tales of Ted Young, private citizen. As a dashing youngster he was fond of athletics, especially swimming. One memorable day he made a marathon swim from the town dock to Mulligan's Bay and back. Mulligan's Bay was a favorite of his, and his family had a camp there. Sometimes this community minded fellow would get roped into special events. He reminisced about Art Grout's Christmas celebration which included costumed characters and Santa arriving by airplane. It seems Santa, alas Ted was scared stiff of flying and experienced a ride he'll never forget. Dr. Young's busy workload did not seem to leave much time for personal activities, yet he managed to take some enjoyable trips out of the country. A boy's love of building became a life long series of projects tackled with enthusiasm, never really “finished” but always evolving and changing. Sometimes these personal pursuits became part of our life, for example his bringing television to Chapleau in the late 60s and Wawa in the 70s. By his own admission the first cable TV
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, September 23, 2021- Page 5 Until the town's ambulance service was system was called the “clothesline” system as established, Dr. Young's own ambulance service wires were strung wherever. This system evolved from a series of 250 fulfilled the town's need. Chapleau's isolation calls forth a foot towers (off air system) on “Slaughterhouse Hill” to an array of dishes on his office complex particular kind of courage from our medical downtown. In the 90s Dr. Young brought the practitioners. How we smile when we see doctors internet to Chapleau through the Cancom f r o m m u c h l e s s i s o l a t e d c o m m u n i t i e s Company. It certainly was appreciated by the complaining on the TV news about their citizens and the number of its subscribers grew workload and limited facilities. Dr. Young had his share of midnight phone calls of disastrous events rapidly. Public life included an interest in the that demanded surgery that should not be Rotary Club which he helped found in Chapleau attempted in a small centre - yet who can say no to and of which he was a life member. The town human suffering? Dr. Young was known to many council had the benefit of his services for six as a physician whose compassion led him to spend years, and he served on the beach committee for 6 many hours even days dealing with patients' years. The beach area was a pet project of Dr. needs. Dr. Young did not have children of his Young. He undertook to have all the garbage hauled away and replaced with fine beach sand. own but cared for his patients as though they were Wading areas were put in for the small children, his family. The term “Family Doctor” has a benches for the parents to watch from and change special meaning when applied to Dr. G.E. Young. rooms for the swimmers. No small feat when you On a very personal basis, he was not only my find out that the area was the municipal dump for a doctor for many years but also became my friend. He invited me to stay with him on the occasion of number of years before it was moved. His deep love for knowledge and new the celebration of the 100th anniversary of techniques in medicine benefited Chapleau in Chapleau's incorporation in 2001. We had a great lesser known ways. Until Siguard Pearson was visit, and he came to Cranbrook to visit me a trained as a lab technician Dr. Young did service couple of years later. His mother was from performing laboratory tests. He even prepared his Creston British Columbia and we went there to own cultures of penicillin before the drug was visit the cemetery and the church she attended. commercially available. Modern X-ray Dr. G.E. "Ted" Young was truly a colossus on the equipment was brought in by Dr. Young, and also Chapleau scene for many years. May he rest in peace, My email is mikejmorris41@outlook.com the first heart monitor.
ADSB Honours National Day of Truth & Reconciliation Day On September 30th Canadians will recognize the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation. Algoma District School Board (ADSB) will be commemorating the day, also known as Orange Shirt Day, to honour the children who survived residential schools and to remember those who did not. We will take time to honour this special day and all it stands for with many schools beginning the day with a Morning Land Acknowledgement and a moment of silence. Schools and other board buildings will fly their flags at half-mast for the week. We are encouraging students and staff, especially those in Grade 5 to 12, to access virtual presentations being offered all week by the National Centre for Truth & Reconciliation. On a local level, we have a virtual presentation from Dolly Syrette, a grandmother, author, and residential school survivor from Batchewana First Nation available to our students. In June of this year, Algoma District School Board reaffirmed our commitment to Indigenous partners and reconciliation, following the uncovering of unmarked graves. We
committed at that time and we continue to commit to valuing our partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations, to building and strengthening these partnerships across our school communities and to ensuring that all students learn about Indigenous perspectives within the curriculum, including the history and impact of residential schools. Orange bracelets will be made available to staff and students for purchase by donation. All proceeds will go to the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association who we continue to collaborate with, supporting truth and reconciliation actions and activities. The Association has connections to communities throughout the Algoma District including Sault Ste Marie, Chapleau, and Spanish. In addition, ADSB will further engage the voices of First Nations, Métis and Inuit youth in the ADSB Northern Indigenous Youth Council to further understand and enhance their lived experiences within our schools. We invite our communities to join us by wearing orange on September 30th, or by pausing for a moment to remember the solemnity of the day
and as a way to remember the effects of residential schools and the legacy they have left behind. Only by working together, with Indigenous students, families, communities and partners, can we fully understand our history and our present, and build a positive future for everyone.
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CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, September 23, 2021- Page 6
Last weeks solutions MOMENTS IN TIME
On Oct. 4, 1957, the Soviet Union inaugurates the "Space Age" with its launch of Sputnik, the world's first artificial satellite. The 22-inch sphere weighed 184 pounds. In January 1958, Sputnik burned up in the atmosphere when its orbit deteriorated.
CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, September 23, 2021- Page 7
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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.
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CHAPLEAU EXPRESS, September 23, 2021- Page 8 spreading the virus, meetings are by appointment only, made through my office. This is to prevent line-ups at the door and eliminate congregating in waiting rooms. Clinics are advertised in advance in local newspapers, on radio stations, on my Facebook page and on my website, michaelmantha.com. Or call the office to find out when the next clinics will be held in your area. I always look forward to clinic weeks. One of the most frequent conversation topics that I have of late with constituents is the A while ago, I enjoyed speaking with some need to bring about understanding and healing high school-aged teens who sparked up a conversation while we all enjoyed ice cream cones regarding Truth and Reconciliation. There are 22 under some shady trees. I have to admit that it First Nations spread all across this riding, with usually surprises me when a teen knows who I am thousands of Indigenous people living on and off and what my job is. Sitting there on picnic tables, reserve. As Northerners know, there is a great one of them asked me to list the things I liked best need to improve mutual respect and trust among about my job. I'm happy to say that the question us all. Such goals are truly desired by all. Canadians have made significant strides was pretty easy to answer because my list of toward improving relations between Indigenous, positives about my job is considerable. Those who know me will probably not be federal and provincial governments. The inquiry surprised to hear that one of the best things about into Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women my occupation is the number of wonderful people and Girls has helped make monumental progress I get to meet. By no means does this mean that in this direction. And now we are broadening our every meeting or conversation I have is delightful sense of reality and understanding about the or even marginally pleasant in some cases. effects of residential schools on Indigenous Nonetheless, in meeting so many people and peoples and how Canadians have historically talking about so many things, I learn so much related to events of our past that were supported by about the real issues that matter to Ontarians and several levels of government and religious matters that are of particular concern to affiliations. The Government of Canada's Truth and Northerners. Readers of this column will recall that Reconciliation Commission is an initiative to when I learned that Doug Ford decided to delay improve relations and understanding between the opening of the Legislature by three weeks, I First Nations Indigenous People and all was less than amused. Ontarians are stressed to Canadians. It is hoped that this commission can the hilt, knowing that infection levels are rising h e l p i n i t i a t e m e a n i n g f u l d i a l o g u e a n d and hospitalizations across the country understanding for all Canadians of every skyrocketing. On top of that, we are sending our background and origin. The commission kids back into classrooms with what many believe formulated 94 Calls to Action provide guidance on are inadequate protections. There is so much the path to reconciliation. One of the calls to more that we can be doing to make life better and action was declaring September 30th as an annual get things back to normal. We can ill afford to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. In June of this year, the Government of waste time. Nevertheless, the reins are in Mr. Ford's hands, and it will be he and his ministers Canada passed legislation that recognizes that will have to answer for their decisions and September 30th as a national holiday. As a result, federal employees and those federally regulated delays to the people of Ontario. So, as always, I try to look for some will have a paid day off. However, the proposal is positives in the path that lies before me. So, as intended to do far more than just commemorate mothers often say, "When life gives you lemons, the tragic genocidal legacy and the continuing make lemonade." With this in mind, I am happy to harm that residential schools in Canada caused. The federal government also encouraged say that, thanks to the many supportive all provinces to follow this lead in hopes to bring municipalities and First Nations band offices, I am about meaningful understanding for all again able to resume my schedule of constituency Canadians. It is incredibly disappointing that the clinics across the riding. Those not familiar with the concept of Ford government chose not to officially recognize constituency clinics will be interested to know that the day. Instead, they are letting a prime my office arranges clinics at municipal offices, opportunity for education and real change in public libraries or similar venues, and First Nation societal values slip between our fingers. Officially recognizing such a holiday has band offices throughout the year. Constituents are true potential to foster healing and bridge gaps. invited to meet with me one on one to raise matters Consider the overwhelming success of Ontario's of concern or ask for assistance on issues of a provincial nature. As a precaution to limit own Family Day paid holiday held each February.
Surveys show that thousands of families across the province have taken this theme to heart, taking full advantage of the day by actually planning and participating in all manner of enjoyable activities together. The results have been outstanding as parents, children, and extended families spend time together to bond, forming precious memories to last a lifetime. Just imagine what could be accomplished if Ontario's government also officially recognized Truth and Reconciliation Day. With the support of municipal recreation departments, service clubs, schools and families to organize events geared to encourage real participation, the potential results are incalculable. Ogimaa Reg Niganobi, former Mississauga First Nation Chief, now recently elected as Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief, said that he is very disappointed but not surprised with the Ontario Government's decision. He explained that the point of the holiday should be to offer opportunities for people to learn the truth and really understand. But with our lives being so full, unless we dedicate special time for this, it just isn't going to happen. Ogimaa Niganobi said, “"If the government doesn't take the day seriously, then why shouldn't the rest of the average citizens?" Adrian Chrisjohn, Chief of the Oneida Nation of the Thames, also expressed his shock about the decision. Chrisjohn wrote a letter to Premier Ford to express the views of his people. He told CBC News, "I felt the obligation to speak up. I think a lot of First Nations issues get brushed to the side, or they're the flavour of the week or flavour of the month, and then it disappears, and it does nothing. So I think to build on this awareness is going to help everybody heal." NDP leader Andrea Horwath stated, "It's shameful that the Doug Ford government is refusing the solemn duty to remember, to learn, and to work for change. For all Ontarians, making September 30th a stat holiday is a critical move forward in the difficult work that needs to be done to revive reconciliation." As I said at the beginning, one of the best things about my job is getting to talk with so many people. Drop into any primary class to see children sharing with one another and learning. I have been invited to countless high school classes where I make sure that the students ask questions and speak rather than me giving a speech. Dialogue is one of the most effective means of learning and truly understanding. As they say, the Creator gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason; so that we can listen twice as much as we talk. As always, please feel free to contact my office about these issues or any other provincial matters. You can reach my constituency office by email at mmantha-co@ndp.on.ca or phone at 705461-9710 or Toll-free at 1-800-831-1899