Feb. 10, 2022: Updated Public Health Measures for Neyaashiinigmiing

February 10, 2022

Updated Public Health Measures for Neyaashiinigmiing

The beginning of January 2022, Neyaashiinigmiing saw additional public health measures implemented to help reduce the transmission of the highly contagious Omicron variant in our community.

Recently, the data and health trends within Ontario and Grey-Bruce County has shown that key public health, and health system indicators are starting to stabilize. Chief & Council has just announced that several public health measures will be lifted in Neyaashiinigmiing. This closely coincides with Ontario’s recent changes.

The updates below are not intended to be an exhaustive list.

Feb. 2, 2022 – Chief Veronica Smith shares a few words at Wiarton Willie’s Prediction Ceremony

This morning Chief Veronica Smith had an opportunity to share a few words at Wiarton Willie’s Prediction Ceremony, “I’d like to say we’ve had a difficult two years with COVID, and I would be remiss not to mention that the First Nations are still suffering because of our children being found, but I know we are here sharing today for a good time. So on behalf of the Chippewas of Nawash First Nation Community, I say, Chi-Miigwetch. Have a good day.”

Chief Veronica Smith’s speech starts at the 10:51 mark : https://youtu.be/I__5-7rjEJY

 

Feb. 2, 2022: Grade 3/4 classroom closed – will reopen Mon. Feb 7th.

Feb 2, 2022

Dear Parents and Guardians,

During an emergency meeting of the Board of Education, it was decided to close the Grade 3/4 classroom.  The classroom will reopen on Monday February 7th.

The decision was made as a precautionary measure to prevent further spread of the virus.  

We also support and understand family decisions to keep their children home at this time.  We respect your decision.  If that is the case teachers will follow up with these families.  

Please take the time to know the symptoms and to screen each child prior to sending them off to school.  More than likely we will have to learn to deal with more of these situations as time passes.  Again, your patience and cooperation has been very positive through all these troubling times.

Feel free to call the school if you have questions or concerns.

Kikendaasogamig Elementary School

Jan. 28, 2022: Community & COVID-19 Updates for Neyaashiinigmiing

Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation Newsletter

January 28, 2022

The community is currently closed to all except for residents, employees and essential services.
Band Buildings are currently closed to the public.
Essential Services such as Health and Social Assistance are still available by appointment only.

Ontario has now moved into a modified Step 2 of the Roadmap to Reopen.

Please continue to check our Nawash website (www.nawash.ca) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/CONUFN) for any updates pertaining to COVID-19 and our community.

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COVID-19 CASES IN NEYAASHIINIGMIING

As of Wed. Jan. 26, 2022

Number of new confirmed COVID-19 cases for Jan. 26, 2022 0
Number of active COVID-19 cases in the community 0
Number of cases resolved (since Jan. 1, 2022) 36

 

ACTIVE COVID-19 CASES IN HOSPITAL

As of Wed. Jan. 26, 2022

Number of confirmed local active cases hospitalized in Grey Bruce due to COVID-19 10
Number of confirmed cases from Grey Bruce that are hospitalized outside of Grey Bruce due to COVID-19 3

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Over the last few days, we have had zero COVID-19 cases in our Neyaashiinigmiing community.  We wanted to extend our warmest thank you to every household for your diligence and sacrifice in helping to contain and limit the spread of the virus in our community.

Chief Veronica Smith, Council and Staff

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UPCOMING VACCINE CLINIC FOR 5-11 YEAR OLDS

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NAWASH OUTREACH

Nawash Social Services/ Family Well Being/ and Wellness Center will be doing community outreach every Monday between 11am-1pm.

We have a small survey.  Information will only be used to help us plan future activities and services; determine who we maybe missing in our services and know how best to communicate.

Miigwech for all those who have given feedback we will be taking this into consideration when we do programming.

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JOIN US IN WELCOMING FAITH ABELL AS THE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT.

A word from Faith:

Aaniin,

My name is Faith Abell and I just began a 12-week contract as the Administrative Assistant to cover Alexandra Ouimette. I recently graduated from the Business – Accounting program at Niagara College, and have gained experience working at Bruce Power Finance and BDO in Owen Sound.  For this position, I will be providing support to the Chief and Council, as well as the band administrative staff. When I began my post-secondary education, I dreamed that one day I would have the opportunity to bring what I learned back to my home community. I am absolutely thrilled to be here and if you wish to connect, my phone extension is 252 and my email address is eaadminassist@nawash.ca.

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Message from Gimaa Veronica Smith

Regarding Chief & Council Communications:

January 28, 2022

Greetings to the Membership:

At our Day 4 Regular Council meeting on January 24th, Council discussed a number of ideas for the delivery of news to the membership, such as who reports: our Communication Manager Nahleena, all Programs, Councillors, and Chief.   We’ve also had past discussion regarding information and it’s reported and we need to clarify that the SON Environment Office will report on their programs, the Joint Council reports on the Land Claim and common issues such as Fishing.  Administration and programs reporting services and program information, and finally Council reporting on political news and decisions made on behalf of the membership.   Councillor Norma Tobey holds the Portfolio for Communications and we have filled 3 of 5 Committee seats.   Our Communication Committee Members are:  Shelley Cornelius, Byron Millette and Terry King who will continue to help us develop our Communication Strategy.

There are a number of items for Council to address and we will cover one or two topics each week.   News will be delivered on the Nawash.ca website, on the Official Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation Facebook page, and with Household mail.   The Council minutes can be emailed to you if you contact the Administration Office and put your name on the list.   Further, the Council does not only want to deliver information to you to keep you informed, but we’d also like to have your input on several matters so we will work with Nahleena to host a live forum for discussion and feedback in the near future.

This newsletter will provide you with a McIver (Purple Valley) Property up-date and an up-date on the works so far for the New Administration Complex.   The Council looks forward to your questions and feedback on all the work we do on your behalf.

Chi-Miigwetch

Veronica Smith
Gimaa Kwe
Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation

MCIVER PROPERTY / PURPLE VALLEY Decision:

     The previous 2019-2021 Council envisioned the purchase and ownership of 200 acres of land with a 1901 2-story renovated 6000 sq ft home with Bed & Breakfast potential business – known as 952 McIvor House on the Purple Valley Road just outside the North boundary of the reserve.

January 2021, Council completed an application to the ENNE Trust – Edkaagmik Nbiizh Neyaashiinigamiingninwag Edbendaagzijig Trust, and asked OKT for an inspection and assessment of the house.    The ENNE Trust application speaks to utilizing the 10-bedroom home with potential for Economic Development (as an Air B&B) or a Residential Aftercare Program, and also requests that the Trust expend Capital to purchase land as per the Coldwater Settlement Agreement.  By April 2021, ENNE Trust responded that we have two options:

  1. Purchase the property as an Addition to Reserve,
  2. Capital Project / Economic Development Initiative

In January and February 2021, a community survey was taken and 44 responses were collected. The only question asked was if you support the purchase of the McIver property for $2.5Million?   No numbers were reported but a pie chart shows that an estimated ¾ or 33 people said “Yes” and 11 said “No” because they needed additional information to make a decision.

The Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation investment company (Nawash Investments General Partnership) submitted an Offer to Purchase the property as per BCR 231 dated June 30, 2021.  The property was listed as $2.5Million but our offer was $2 Million.

OKT Assessment Notes:  In early 1900s, Canada purchased the Old McIvor Property with Band funds to be used as an access road to the reserve, but did not formally add it to the reserve.  The road was subsequently relocated to the north, leaving a narrow strip of land that had been purchased with Band funds running through the McIvor property.  Canada took no interest in the property, with the result being – by the 1990s, the owner of the McIvor property was essentially using that strip as part of his farm.  The ownership of the Old McIvor Road thus fell into doubt, there being no transactions in relation to it for years and no physical indication of it (like a fence).  OKT persuaded the owner to quit claim the road strip to Canada in trust for Nawash.  Thus, the present legal owner of the road strip is Canada which holds it in trust for the Nawash.  Canada may dispute these facts, and there is no practical way for the Band to use that road at present.

September 2021, under the current Chief and Council, Motion 465 – Council gave direction to sign an Offer to Purchase with a deposit of $50,000 and contracted Neegan-Burnside for a $14,500 Property Assessment.

Neegan-Burnside Assessment Summary:

  1. Outstanding issue on the Road right of way on the property
  2. Zoning issues on the B&B
  3. Repair and Cost estimates (the buildings are not handicap accessible; additional funding is required for all repairs
  4. Revenues on B&B are not substantial (but also not operational year-round)

After much discussion in the November 22nd and December 9th Council meetings, Council passed:   Motion #715 on December 9th – that based on the information provided, the offer to purchase the McIvor Property was rescinded.  6 For.  Councillor Sid Nadjiwon abstained – Due diligence should have been carried out long before this.  Motion Carried.

Council was also refunded their $50,000 deposit.

The Nawash Councillor have interest in this property and perhaps to negotiate a lower price at a later date depending on price and after consultation with the membership if this is where we should invest.   We still have the option to submit an ENNE Trust fund application once we decide if we want to pursue land acquisition under the ATR (Additions to Reserve) or as an Economic Development venture (Air B&B / Residential Aftercare) in which case we require a Business Plan, Zoning and major renovations to meet Health & Safety requirements for a business (estimated $150,000).

The Council has inquired about a Monkey Survey in the near future to ask again, knowing the above information – Do you believe the Nawash should invest in the McIvor property and agree that the Council will negotiate a lower price, and for the intended purpose of a) ATR or b) for business purposes, and if so – what type of business?  It does appear to be easier and more beneficial to apply for Additions to Reserve and avoid taxes.

The Council received the 2019/2020 Audit on January 6th.  Copies will be available in the near future as BDO prepares the final copies.    The Nawash is in good financial standing at the end of 2020.    For the past 2020/2021 Audit – we are expecting it to be completed in March.  I believe once we have the audits up to date and we have an accurate financial report, we will be in a better position to take our Planning & Priorities List to the community for input.

NEW ADMINSTRATION COMPLEX PLANNING:

The Ad-Hoc Team consists of: Gimaa Veronica Smith, Councillors Anthony Chegahno, Kathy Jones and Sidney Nadjiwon; the SAO-Senior Administration Officer Michael Earl, and the Capital Manager, William Jones.   The Ad-Hoc Team has met twice regarding plans and nothing has been finalized.  We realize more consultation and planning is required.

The Terms of Reference includes:

#1 – Identify funding to hire a Project Manager
#2 – Identify land for the new Administration Office
#3 – Building Plans (cost for design and actual building costs)
#4 – Identify funding sources for construction

The Team explored site size and potential locations and are recommending the site of the former Economic Development/Cape Croker Public School.   We hope there is enough room so that we can keep the community garden there as well.

Sites considered were:

  1. Maadookii subdivision – the alternative site for the new school
  2. Across from the Water Treatment Plant at Clay Hills
  3. Former Economic Development property
  4. Former publics school property
  5. Other proposed locations with access to hydro and water

We have projected at least 60 offices in the new complex to provide offices for the Governance, with Council chambers, the Administration staff, Finance, Human Resource, Lands & Membership, Capital Managers, Communications & IT, Economic & Employment, the Band Representative, Fire, Roads Clerk, Jordan’s Principle, Language Nest, Recreation, Adult Learning, Fisheries and a Visitor Office.   We foresee a building with wings to accommodate “programs” requiring new space:  Native Child Welfare, Social Services and Education.

Additional Space is Required for a main reception, Council chambers to seat Joint Council with seating space for observers.  4 Meeting rooms and 2 lunch rooms complete with kitchens.  A central filing room and office supplies storage and distribution centre, a Vault, bathrooms, a sick room and Janitor/Maintenance (electrical/water heater/furnace).

Outside Spaces incudes:  adequate Parking, Gazebo for Sacred Fire, staff sitting space and NCW Playground.

Other Considerations:

-Solar panels to cut down on electricity
-Review budgets: on how much programs spend heat/ hydro/ insurance/ security / janitorial/ lawn and snow maintenance
-Determine the cost per sq footage per program
-A building this size will likely require two floors and an elevator; full basement as well
-Turtle/horseshoe shape building with 2 wings and 4 sections
-Sections will have doors with locks so access to the whole complex isn’t available
-Programs require their own entrances i.e.) NCW also needs access to kitchen space and a large room for programming and meeting space.

Potential Sources of Funding: 

The First Nation does not have sufficient funds to invest in a new Administration Office, but with CHRT rulings that have guaranteed funding for Child Welfare and Band Rep funding, as well as a commitment from NWMO, the Hope Bay settlement, and other sources of funding in the past few years have made it possible to now bring these plans to reality.  The Band has no option but to move ahead as it is no longer feasible for programs and services to be delivered from old buildings that are inadequate and costly; many don’t meet Health & Safety codes.

Estimate Cost of the Complex is $10 – $12 Million dollars

Potential Funding has been identified from several sources outlined below:
$3.5 M from ISC for Native Child Welfare for Capital – RECEIVED
$1.5 M from ISC for Band Representative for Capital – PENDING APPROVAL
$4M from NWMO – Submitted NOTIFICATION / INTENTION TO APPLY FOR FUNDS
Coldwater Trust Funds
B2M Funding
Hope Bay Funding
ISC Economic Development

Estimated Cost to Contract Planning & Design Engineers:   

Tenders have not been developed.   $75,000 Received from ENNE Trust, and $25,000 from ISC for NCW/Band Rep feasibility costs.

Timeframes:

One Year (2021-2022) To develop building plans, complete cost-savings analysis and secure funding sources.
Year Two (2022-2023) Construction of new Administration Complex

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CALL OUT FOR SON ARTISTS

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TIVERTON, ON January 24, 2022 – Bruce Power and Isogen (a partnership between Kinectrics and Framatome) have completed the installation of a groundbreaking Isotope Production System (IPS), making Unit 7 the first power reactor in the world with installed capability to produce Lutetium-177 (Lu-177).

Lu-177 is a medical isotope used in the treatment of various cancers, such as neuroendocrine tumours and prostate cancer. In the future, this system will also have the ability to produce other isotopes for medical uses.

“This installation of the IPS is an exciting milestone on our journey to becoming the first power reactor in the world to provide a scalable, game-changing solution in the supply of life-saving medical isotopes for the global medical community,” said James Scongack, Bruce Power’s Chief Development Officer and Executive Vice President, Operational Services. “Our medical isotope program and the IPS installation are a result of years of innovation and development in partnership with Isogen, Saugeen Ojibway Nation, and ITM, and will provide large-scale capacity to help produce medical isotopes, which will be used across the world in new treatments to fight cancer.”

With the new system now installed, activities will shift to planned commissioning along with preparation activities for commercial production that will follow once these activities and regulatory submissions are successfully completed.

“Ontario is leading the way in the production and supply of medical isotopes around the world,” said Hon. Todd Smith, Ontario’s Minister of Energy. “I’m proud of the innovative work being done by Bruce Power and its partners in the supply chain, including Framatome and Kinectrics. Their efforts are helping to further cement our position as an international isotope superpower, while providing critical medical tools to help meet the needs of patients battling cancer.”

Lu-177 offers doctors an alternative to traditional chemotherapy by deploying a “seek-and-destroy” dose to target cancer cells, while limiting damage to surrounding healthy tissues and organs.

The IPS was developed and manufactured by Isogen, a joint venture between Framatome and Kinectrics, which is focused on developing innovative isotope production technologies.

“The installation and successful transfer of the first target marks a major accomplishment and successful implementation of Framatome Healthcare technology; the first Isotope Production System in a power reactor for commercial production of therapeutic medical isotopes,” said Curtis Van Cleve, President and CEO of Framatome Canada Ltd. “We applaud the dedication and efforts of our partners at Bruce Power, Saugeen Ojibway Nation, Kinectrics, ITM and our team, and the support of their families that allowed them to see this installation through.”

“The installation of the IPS is the result of countless hours of support from many people at Bruce Power, Framatome, Kinectrics, Saugeen Ojibway Nation and our suppliers,” said David Harris, CEO of Kinectrics. “The entire team demonstrated tremendous dedication, especially during the pandemic. This was a critical step to enable the production of Lutetium-177 for our partner, ITM, and to fortifying a strong, reliable, and large-scale global supply chain of life-saving isotopes, that both physicians and patients can depend on.”

With its new IPS system, Bruce Power will conduct the irradiation of Ytterbium-176 (176Yb) as a first step in the production of no-carrier-added Lutetium-177 (n.c.a. 177Lu). Processing of the irradiated Ytterbium-176 for the production of n.c.a. Lutetium-177, as well as the global supply of n.c.a. 177Lu, will be handled by ITM Isotope Technologies Munich SE (ITM), a leading radiopharmaceutical biotech company that is the largest and most reliable producer of Lu-177 for pharmaceutical use.

“The successful installation of this production site builds an important milestone in our partnership with Bruce Power and Isogen to scale up the production of high-quality medical radioisotopes,” said Steffen Schuster, CEO at ITM. “We look forward to the upcoming launch of the IPS and are proud to contribute with our unique manufacturing methodology to yield high-quality n.c.a. 177Lu and make this accessible for cancer patients worldwide.”

The installation of the IPS is a significant step in the landmark isotope project, which is a partnership that began more than three years ago with over 400 dedicated professionals working on various stages of the project.

In November 2021, Bill Walker, MPP of Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, introduced a Private Member’s motion – which passed with all party support – to assert Ontario’s leadership role in the production and supply of medical isotopes as a strategic priority for the province. Today’s announcement exemplifies that Ontario continues to be the forefront of medical isotope technology.

“I want to congratulate Bruce Power, Framatome and Kinectrics on this important accomplishment,” said MPP Walker. “Ontario has long been looked to as a leader in the medical isotope space, and these partners are playing an important role in the global supply chain to provide patients around the world with life-saving cancer treatments and diagnostic tools.”

Bruce Power will market the new isotope supply in an historic collaboration partnership with Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON). The partnership project with SON, named “Gamzook’aamin Aakoziwin,” includes an equity stake for SON and a revenue-sharing program that provides a direct benefit.

“From the initial concept in 2019 to production expected in 2022, our Gamzook’aamin Aakoziwin project is on track to meet an ambitious timeline to have isotope supply ready to meet the increasing demand from doctors and cancer patients around the world,” said Chief Lester Anoquot, Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation. “Saugeen Ojibway Nation is proud of the part we have played and will continue to play in this project.”

Short-lived medical isotopes are essential tools for doctors and researchers in the fight against cancer, and this project will provide a much-needed source of these isotopes for patients close to home, in our communities, and around the world,” added Chief Veronica Smith, Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation.

“Thanks to the investments being made into the Bruce Power site today, we can look to the future and realize a vital role in providing life-saving medical isotopes to the world, while also supplying clean, reliable and low-cost electricity to Ontario, growing the economy and fostering innovation for decades to come,” said Hon. Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and MPP for Huron-Bruce.

You can learn more about how Bruce Power is helping to keep hospitals safe, and also diagnosing and treating cancer at www.brucepower.com/isotopes.

About Bruce Power
Bruce Power is an electricity company based in Bruce County, Ontario. We are powered by our people. Our 4,200 employees are the foundation of our accomplishments and are proud of the role they play in safely delivering clean, reliable, low-cost nuclear power to families and businesses across the province and life-saving medical isotopes around the world. Bruce Power has worked hard to build strong roots in Ontario and is committed to protecting the environment and supporting the communities in which we live. Formed in 2001, Bruce Power is a Canadian-owned partnership of TC Energy, OMERS, the Power Workers’ Union and The Society of United Professionals. Learn more at www.brucepower.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

About Isogen

Isogen is a joint venture between Framatome and Kinectrics, whose mission is to enable the use of CANDU reactors to produce the medical isotopes needed to treat and diagnose patients with serious diseases world-wide. Isogen’s enabling partnerships with Bruce Power and ITM allows us to produce the world’s largest and most reliable supply of life-saving, short-lived, therapeutic medical isotopes.

About ITM Isotope Technologies Munich SE

ITM, a radiopharmaceutical biotech company, is dedicated to providing the most precise cancer radiotherapeutics and diagnostics to meet the needs of patients, clinicians and our partners through excellence in development, production and global supply. With patient benefit as the driving principle for all we do, ITM is advancing a broad pipeline, including two phase III studies, combining its high-quality radioisotopes with targeting molecules to develop precision oncology treatments. ITM is leveraging its leadership and nearly two decades of radiopharma expertise combined with its worldwide network to enable nuclear medicine to reach its full potential for helping patients live longer and better. For more information please visit: www.itm-radiopharma.com.

ITM Medical Isotopes GmbH, a 100% subsidiary of ITM Isotope Technologies Munich SE, had signed a supply arrangement for Lutetium-177 with Isogen in 2020, which was made possible through Isogen’s partnership with Bruce Power.

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January 24, 2022: Charmaine Jenner (Tauchkwe), a self-taught Woodland Style artist from Neyaashiinigmiing has been selected to have one of her paintings installed as a piece of public art as a community-funded symbol of reconciliation efforts.

The project grew from conversations among a group of neighbours in the village of Oxenden at a summer picnic intended to celebrate Canada’s 150, where they quickly realized that if we are looking back at the early inhabitants of the village, the last 150 years is only one part the story, with First Nations people having stewarded it for over 10,000 years. As a group of neighbours, they set to work to figure out what they could do to honour the much longer history of the First Nations who originally lived here and to begin an effort to help right the many historic wrongs in First Nations / settler relations.

They researched the Treaties and held a gathering to learn from renowned local First Nations historian Lenore Keeshig-Tobias, and put together a Call for Proposals for First Nations artists to propose a piece of large-scale public art. Installing the art on the property that they now own marks a public acknowledgement that the drive for private land ownership by settlers and colonizers is exactly what forced the relocation and dispersion of the local First Nations onto reserves. In this case the residents of the South Side of Colpoys Bay in Saugeen Ojibway Nation Territory were relocated to Neyaashiinigmiing and to Beausoleil First Nation on the Christian, Beckwith and Hope Islands, so the Call for Proposals was directed at artists with connection to these regions.

The project received three very strong submissions, and the Jury, including local residents and Indigenous artists, youth and leaders, settled on Charmaine’s Crane because of both the beauty of the piece and the layers of symbolism and teachings embedded within it. Crane (Ajiijak) represents leadership and speaks on behalf of the people for the good of the Community and Nation.

The Crane lives in harmony with the land, the water and takes to the air with grace and ease. We can all learn how to speak up for, and take care of the land, air and waters, so that our future generations may enjoy the beauty and sacredness of Creation.

“As an Indigenous Anishnaabeh Kwe,” Charmaine says, “my heart is filled with gratitude, to be connected with the message of awareness and help in educating our non-Indigenous neighbors in the Spirit of reconciliation and allyship, building strong foundations for future generations.”

The organizers envision this piece of art speaking directly to the hearts of passers-by on this busy hiking, cycling, and traffic route for generations to come and a symbol of peace, strength and collaboration.

Chief Veronica Smith, one of the Jury members said: “What a pleasure to be part of the group to select a work of art from one of our local Indigenous artisans that depicts the Ojibway presence at Oxenden which was once a settlement for the Saugeen Ojibway.  Ajiijak, the crane represents leadership which is necessary for everyone, especially our youth as we strengthen our path towards reconciliation and partnerships.   I’m sure everyone will enjoy seeing Ajiijak at Oxenden!

Heidi Tones, High school teacher and Oxenden resident, says “This serene, yet thought-provoking, Crane mural will not only beautify the corners of Oxenden, it will also be a lasting legacy to the First Nations people who settled here long before the settlers. This symbolic gesture is only the start of the much-needed building of relations in this wonderous area known as the Saugeen Peninsula.”

Sandy Ashton, local resident of First Nations heritage says, “We are all treaty people, and the message shared through this mural will be important for every tourist, every hiker, and every local passing by to recognize and contemplate.”

Local resident of Métis heritage, Kelsey Carriere, upon whose house the piece will be affixed says “I’m so honoured to be part of this project. Having worked on many community art projects over the years I know the power of public art and am so happy to see First Nation and settler neighbours come together in the spirit of reconciliation to celebrate our commitment to building a strong, caring and collaborative future together. There are so many historical wrongs to be righted and this project brings this deep and complex work to the surface in a meaningful and celebratory way.”

The group is currently fundraising for the artist commission and installation. You can learn more about the project at https://oxendenindigenousartproject.weebly.com/ or donate directly through their charitable partner at Elephant Thoughts (select Oxenden Indigenous Art Project as the Designation).

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JOB POSTINGS:

SONS – Saugeen Ojibway Nation is looking for the following:
Environment Office – Manager Position
Environment Office – Resources and Infrastructure Associate Position

Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation is looking for:
Water Wastewater Supervisor – 6 Month Contract


Learn more about these opportunities and many more on our website: https://www.nawash.ca/employment-opportunities/

 

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REMINDERS

FAMILY PANDEMIC PLANNING GUIDE

Social Services at Nawash has designed a Family Emergency Health Guide to help prepare families during the current wave of this pandemic.

The intention of this guide is to have every household think about their individual pandemic plans.  By filling out this form, you are creating a plan that can help lessen the stress and impact of the COVID 19 pandemic on your household. The answers will also assist emergency services should they be called to your home.

If you haven’t already done so, please take 5-10 minutes to fill out the Family Pandemic Planning Guide through SurveyMonkey:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/FamilyPandemicPlanningGuide

Please note, we have also printed off this guide and distributed it to each household last Friday, Jan. 14th across Neyaashiinigming. If you prefer – please fill out the hard copy you received in your mailbox on Jan 14, 2022 and:

1. Drop the plan off into the drop box outside Social Services especially if you do not have phone, or internet in the home.
OR
2. Post on your home fridge so if emergency services are called they can easily refer to this plan.

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REMINDER: RAPID COVID-19 TEST KITS

Recently we communicated that the Health Centre in Neyaashiinigming has received Rapid COVID-19 Test Kits in response to the highly transmissible COVID-19 variant, Omicron, being present in our community.

We continue to ask that if you are a resident living in Neyaashiinigmiing displaying symptoms of COVID-19, or suspect you may have it, please call the Health Centre at 519-534-0373. A medical professional will conduct a COVID-19 assessment over the phone and depending on the outcome will deliver a Rapid COVID-19 Testing Kit to your home.

Just a reminder that these rapid tests are only available to individuals living in Neyaashiinigmiing.

THE MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19 INCLUDE:

·       Fever (a temperature of 37.8 degrees Celsius or higher) and/or chills
·       Cough, including a barking cough or croup (continuous, more than usual, making a whistling noise when breathing)
·       Shortness of breath (out of breath, unable to breathe deeply)
·       Decrease or loss of taste or smell
·       Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea
·       Muscle aches, joint pain and/or extreme tiredness
·       Headache
·       Congestion or runny nose

More information can be found here: https://www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca/About-Us/News-Releases/ArticleID/971/Updated-Eligibility-for-PCR-Testing-and-Case-and-Contact-Management-Guidance-in-Ontario

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GREY BRUCE HEALTH UNIT – REPORT:

Case counts and vaccine data is taken from GBHU Epidemiological Reports as of 23:59 hrs, January 26, 2022:

All data is preliminary and subject to change. Future situation reports will be updated accordingly.

36 new cases reported in past 24 hours in Grey Bruce:

5375 Confirmed Cases
168 active cases
5169 resolved cases
10 confirmed local active cases hospitalized in Grey Bruce due to COVID-19

  • 3 confirmed cases from Grey Bruce are hospitalized outside of Grey Bruce due to COVID-19 (These numbers are reported to Public Health by Grey-Bruce Hospitals on confirmed COVID-19 cases admitted for treatment attributed to COVID-19 infection)

25 deaths in Grey Bruce

  • +1 death related to a Grey Bruce resident that acquired the infection and was treated outside of Grey Bruce
  • +8 deaths related to Grey Bruce residents that acquired the infection in Grey Bruce however passed away outside of Grey Bruce
  • Local and Provincial data may not align as cases with unconfirmed cause of death are not included above butare included in the Provincial data.
  • 366 cases reported in health care workers; reports health care workers living in Grey Bruce and working both in and outside Grey Bruce

Active Outbreaks

o   Rockwood Terrace Long Term Care – Durham
o   Errinrung Nursing Home –Thornbury
o   Errinrung Retirement Home – Thornbury
o   Parkview Manor – Chesley
o   Mapleview Long-Term Care Home – Owen Sound
o   Summit Place – Owen Sound
o   Season’s Owen Sound
o   Lee Manor – Owen Sound

Vaccine 342,625 Total Doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered in Grey and Bruce

  • 4,193 Doses given within the past week

Future Vaccination Planning:

  • Appointments are recommended for all, however, walk-ins are available at all public health vaccine clinics.
  • All individuals seeking a fourth dose must provide proof of eligibility – official referral/note from your primary care provider, prescription, or prescription bottle.
  • See Vaccine Clinics – details at Vaccine Schedule (Make sure to scroll to the proper page of the schedule)

Actions Taken In the Past 24 Hours:

  • GBHU COVID-19 Team continue with case and contact management, reporting, and responding to COVID-19 related calls. Contact tracing exceeds provincial targets with 100% of all cases contacted within 24 hours
  • GBHU Team continue to ensure essential public health activities not related to COVID-19

VACCINE DATA OVERVIEW

Jan 25, 2022: Installation Complete of New Isotope Production System at Bruce Power, Paving Way for Production of Life-saving Medical Isotopes

 

Bruce Power and Isogen (a partnership between Kinectrics and Framatome) have completed the installation of a groundbreaking Isotope Production System (IPS), making Unit 7 the first power reactor in the world with installed capability to produce Lutetium-177 (Lu-177).

Lu-177 is a medical isotope used in the treatment of various cancers, such as neuroendocrine tumours and prostate cancer. In the future, this system will also have the ability to produce other isotopes for medical uses.

“This installation of the IPS is an exciting milestone on our journey to becoming the first power reactor in the world to provide a scalable, game-changing solution in the supply of life-saving medical isotopes for the global medical community,” said James Scongack, Bruce Power’s Chief Development Officer and Executive Vice President, Operational Services. “Our medical isotope program and the IPS installation are a result of years of innovation and development in partnership with Isogen, Saugeen Ojibway Nation, and ITM, and will provide large-scale capacity to help produce medical isotopes, which will be used across the world in new treatments to fight cancer.”

With the new system now installed, activities will shift to planned commissioning along with preparation activities for commercial production that will follow once these activities and regulatory submissions are successfully completed.

“Ontario is leading the way in the production and supply of medical isotopes around the world,” said Hon. Todd Smith, Ontario’s Minister of Energy. “I’m proud of the innovative work being done by Bruce Power and its partners in the supply chain, including Framatome and Kinectrics. Their efforts are helping to further cement our position as an international isotope superpower, while providing critical medical tools to help meet the needs of patients battling cancer.”

Lu-177 offers doctors an alternative to traditional chemotherapy by deploying a “seek-and-destroy” dose to target cancer cells, while limiting damage to surrounding healthy tissues and organs.

The IPS was developed and manufactured by Isogen, a joint venture between Framatome and Kinectrics, which is focused on developing innovative isotope production technologies.

“The installation and successful transfer of the first target marks a major accomplishment and successful implementation of Framatome Healthcare technology; the first Isotope Production System in a power reactor for commercial production of therapeutic medical isotopes,” said Curtis Van Cleve, President and CEO of Framatome Canada Ltd. “We applaud the dedication and efforts of our partners at Bruce Power, Saugeen Ojibway Nation, Kinectrics, ITM and our team, and the support of their families that allowed them to see this installation through.”

“The installation of the IPS is the result of countless hours of support from many people at Bruce Power, Framatome, Kinectrics, Saugeen Ojibway Nation and our suppliers,” said David Harris, CEO of Kinectrics. “The entire team demonstrated tremendous dedication, especially during the pandemic. This was a critical step to enable the production of Lutetium-177 for our partner, ITM, and to fortifying a strong, reliable, and large-scale global supply chain of life-saving isotopes, that both physicians and patients can depend on.”

With its new IPS system, Bruce Power will conduct the irradiation of Ytterbium-176 (176Yb) as a first step in the production of no-carrier-added Lutetium-177 (n.c.a. 177Lu). Processing of the irradiated Ytterbium-176 for the production of n.c.a. Lutetium-177, as well as the global supply of n.c.a. 177Lu, will be handled by ITM Isotope Technologies Munich SE (ITM), a leading radiopharmaceutical biotech company that is one of the largest and most reliable producer of Lu-177 for pharmaceutical use.

“The successful installation of this production site builds an important milestone in our partnership with Bruce Power and Isogen to scale up the production of high-quality medical radioisotopes,” said Steffen Schuster, CEO at ITM. “We look forward to the upcoming launch of the IPS and are proud to contribute with our unique manufacturing methodology to yield high-quality n.c.a. 177Lu and to make it accessible for cancer patients worldwide.”

The installation of the IPS is a significant step in the landmark isotope project, which is a partnership that began more than three years ago with over 400 dedicated professionals working on various stages of the project.

In November 2021, Bill Walker, MPP of Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, introduced a Private Member’s motion – which passed with all party support – to assert Ontario’s leadership role in the production and supply of medical isotopes as a strategic priority for the province. Today’s announcement exemplifies that Ontario continues to be the forefront of medical isotope technology.

“I want to congratulate Bruce Power, Framatome and Kinectrics on this important accomplishment,” said MPP Walker. “Ontario has long been looked to as a leader in the medical isotope space, and these partners are playing an important role in the global supply chain to provide patients around the world with life-saving cancer treatments and diagnostic tools.”

Bruce Power will market the new isotope supply in an historic collaboration partnership with Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON). The partnership project with SON, named “Gamzook’aamin Aakoziwin,” includes an equity stake for SON and a revenue-sharing program that provides a direct benefit.

“From the initial concept in 2019 to production expected in 2022, our Gamzook’aamin Aakoziwin project is on track to meet an ambitious timeline to have isotope supply ready to meet the increasing demand from doctors and cancer patients around the world,” said Chief Lester Anoquot, Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation. “Saugeen Ojibway Nation is proud of the part we have played and will continue to play in this project.”

Short-lived medical isotopes are essential tools for doctors and researchers in the fight against cancer, and this project will provide a much-needed source of these isotopes for patients close to home, in our communities, and around the world,” added Chief Veronica Smith, Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation.

“Thanks to the investments being made into the Bruce Power site today, we can look to the future and realize a vital role in providing life-saving medical isotopes to the world, while also supplying clean, reliable and low-cost electricity to Ontario, growing the economy and fostering innovation for decades to come,” said Hon. Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and MPP for Huron-Bruce.

You can learn more about how Bruce Power is helping to keep hospitals safe, and also diagnosing and treating cancer at www.brucepower.com/isotopes.

About Bruce Power
Bruce Power is an electricity company based in Bruce County, Ontario. We are powered by our people. Our 4,200 employees are the foundation of our accomplishments and are proud of the role they play in safely delivering clean, reliable, low-cost nuclear power to families and businesses across the province and life-saving medical isotopes around the world. Bruce Power has worked hard to build strong roots in Ontario and is committed to protecting the environment and supporting the communities in which we live. Formed in 2001, Bruce Power is a Canadian-owned partnership of TC Energy, OMERS, the Power Workers’ Union and The Society of United Professionals. Learn more at www.brucepower.com and follow us on FacebookTwitterLinkedInInstagram and YouTube.

About Isogen

Isogen is a joint venture between Framatome and Kinectrics, whose mission is to enable the use of CANDU reactors to produce the medical isotopes needed to treat and diagnose patients with serious diseases world-wide. Isogen’s enabling partnerships with Bruce Power and ITM allows us to produce the world’s largest and most reliable supply of life-saving, short-lived, therapeutic medical isotopes.

About ITM Isotope Technologies Munich SE

ITM, a radiopharmaceutical biotech company, is dedicated to providing the most precise cancer radiotherapeutics and diagnostics to meet the needs of patients, clinicians and our partners through excellence in development, production and global supply. With patient benefit as the driving principle for all we do, ITM is advancing a broad pipeline, including two phase III studies, combining its high-quality radioisotopes with targeting molecules to develop precision oncology treatments. ITM is leveraging its leadership and nearly two decades of radiopharma expertise combined with its worldwide network to enable nuclear medicine to reach its full potential for helping patients live longer and better. For more information please visit: www.itm-radiopharma.com.

ITM Medical Isotopes GmbH, a 100% subsidiary of ITM Isotope Technologies Munich SE, had signed a supply arrangement for Lutetium-177 with Isogen in 2020, which was made possible through Isogen’s partnership with Bruce Power.

 

Article published on January 24, 2022

UPDATE: Reopening on Monday, Jan. 31, 2022: Kikendaasogamig Elementary School & the Nshiime Child and Family Centre

The confirmed re-opening date of both the Kikendaasogamig Elementary School and the Nshiime Child and Family Centre is Monday, January 31, 2022.  The elementary school will resume remote learning.  Teachers will be in contact with parents/guardians and students.  The decision comes from Council and is to support the safe return of all children, students, families and staff to their school and childcare centre.

Published on Jan. 24, 2022