Lotto Max Winner in Ottawa
Ottawa is abuzz with the news that one fortunate individual or group in the capital has won a whopping $55 million in the recent Lotto Max jackpot on Friday. But the winner was not the only one with good luck. Further afield in Thunder Bay, another ticket holder claimed more than $243,000. Sarnia and St. Catharines each saw $100,000 winners with Encore tickets. For those still dreaming of that jackpot windfall, the next Lotto Max draw is slated for Aug. 15 with an estimated jackpot of $13 million.
Hydro Ottawa Strike Continues Amidst Ongoing Negotiations
Tensions rise as the strike involving Hydro Ottawa's employees, represented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), reaches its 45th day. Bryce Conrad, CEO of Hydro Ottawa, expressed his concerns and clarified the company's latest proposal in a statement on Friday. The latest offer presented was a substantial 16.77% wage increment, averaging 3.35% annually for five years. This could even stretch to almost 18% over five years with the potential added increments. The union remains adamant, citing a stand for fair wages, health benefits, safety, and a non-toxic work environment. But Conrad emphasizes that all these points have been addressed. While the strike centers around wage issues, Conrad maintains respect for the employees' right to legally strike and hopes for a swift resolution.
Clean-Up Efforts Underway Following Ottawa Flooding
Ottawa residents faced a deluge on Thursday, Aug. 10, with heavy rainfall, hail, and gusty winds causing significant flooding in many areas. Environment Canada reported a staggering 77.3mm of rainfall at the Experimental Farm and 38.3mm at the Ottawa International Airport. Several regions, like Carleton Heights and Riverside, bore the brunt with almost 100mm, whereas areas like Kanata, Stittsville, Carp, and Metcalfe also experienced significant downpours. Thankfully, there were no flood-related injuries. City officials noted that most distress calls about flooded basements emanated from the Alta Vista, Knoxdale-Merivale, and College wards.
Incentive Program Attracts Physician to North Grenville
In healthcare news, North Grenville's recent Primary Care Incentive Program has seen its inaugural success. The program, initiated earlier this year, successfully recruited Dr. Roderick MacPhee to the Kemptville Medical Centre. The new doctor, who is no stranger to the community, having worked there post-medical school, has committed to alleviating the local doctor shortage by catering to a substantial number of patients on waitlists.
Given that several physicians have recently retired or left North Grenville, the township has taken the initiative by allotting up to $200,000 over five years to attract and retain doctors. This investment aims to provide up to 3,000 residents with consistent and reliable access to family medicine. The recruited physicians, in return, have to adhere to specific commitments, including a minimum patient base and working at the local Kemptville hospital.
In summary, it's been a dynamic week in Ottawa. Whether it's the windfall of a lifetime, the resolution of a labor dispute, coping with nature's whims, or securing better healthcare for a community, residents have proven resilient, hopeful, and ever forward-looking.