MPP Holland’s | July 2024 Newsletter

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Monthly Funding Overview

Featured News

Premier’s Joint Statement

I am thankful that Premier Ford has recognized the history of certain regional imbalances and inequities, and has remained committed to improving outcomes for the skilled and experienced Alstom manufacturing staff right here in Thunder Bay. Over the years, our Alstom Thunder Bay team has delivered over 200 TTC streetcars to millions of transit riders who rely on the timely delivery of these new trains.

See full news release: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/premier-ford-issues-a-joint…/

Ontario Investing Up to $260 Million in New Funding to Train Workers

Skilled trades workers literally build the homes we live in, the roads we drive on and much more…

That’s why we’re launching the biggest round of our Skills Development Fund by investing $260 million to tackle the labour shortage and connect jobseekers with high-paying jobs in their communities.

Learn more: https://news.ontario.ca/…/ontario-investing-up-to-260…

Announcements & Investments

Investing in Wetlands at Boulevard Lake

I was thrilled to join Mayor Boshcoff and Tammy Cook, CAO of the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority, to announce that the province is investing $110,700 to restoring the wetlands at Boulevard Lake!

This important initiative will:

– Preserve our natural environment

– Improve water quality

– Provide a sanctuary for wildlife

– Contribute to a sustainable future for our community

Together, we are making a positive impact on our environment and ensuring a greener, healthier future for all.

See news release here: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/ontario-improving-wetlands-in…/

Province Increases Funding to Atikokan General Hospital

I had the pleasure of announcing that our government is investing $365,763 to the continued modernization of the Atikokan General Hospital. Additionally, we are providing $1,282,600 to equip the hospital with the necessary tools, so that the residents of Atikokan and the surrounding area can continue to have enhanced access to quality and compassionate healthcare.

A heartfelt thank you to the Hon. Minister Sylvia Jones for her unwavering support and understanding of the unique challenges faced by remote hospitals in Northwestern Ontario. Her collaboration with myself and the Atikokan General Hospital is instrumental in improving care for our rural communities.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to Mayor Ferguson, CEO Jennifer Learning, CFO Blake Homer, and EA Bonnie Clairmont for joining us in today’s announcements and for their continued cooperation in helping me advocate for our community. Together, we are making strides toward a healthier future for Atikokan!

NR $365,763 Funding: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/ontario-building-more-modern…/

NR $1,282,600 Funding: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/ontario-increasing-funding-to…/

Art Gallery Receives Donation from Rotary Clubs

The Thunder Bay Art Gallery has announced that the Thunder Bay’s Fort William and Port Arthur Rotary clubs are giving a combined total of $200,000 to help support the new waterfront art gallery!

Read full news release: https://mcusercontent.com/…/2024_07_04_MediaRelease…

Over $27,000 in Funding for Seniors in Atikokan

I was happy to join Mayor Rob Ferguson and Kim Cross of the Pioneer Centre to announce that the government is investing $16,625 for programming at the Pioneer Centre in Atikokan. They will also be receiving an additional $11,050 from the Seniors Community Grant that will go towards initiating new programs, and help the cost of promoting these programs in the community. Congratulations to the centre for this great investment towards our seniors.

Watch the announcement here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLQ8fzkUROg

News release: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/mpp-kevin-holland-announces…/

Over $2 Million to Southbridge and St. Joseph’s Care Group Homes

I am the pleased to announce $2,072,096 to our Southbridge and St. Joseph’s Care Group Homes.

This funding will be used to enhance training and infrastructure to provide better quality of care for our growing number of senior residents. It aims to reduce avoidable emergency department visits and hospital stays and overall make the jobs of these dedicated staff easier. To see a funding breakdown view the News Release below.

Thank you to Southbridge Pinewood for hosting today’s announcement and to the staff from St. Joseph’s Care Group for joining us.

See More Details in the News Release: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/ontario-making-long-term-care…/

Community Spotlight

Dr. Verma’s Retirement Celebration

I had the honour of attending Dr. Sarita Verma’s retirement celebration here in Thunder Bay. Dr. Verma is a true champion; her hard work and dedication has brought Canada its first stand-alone medical university, NOSMU!

Her leadership and tireless efforts have significantly impacted both the medical field and our communities. Dr. Verma’s legacy will continue to inspire future healthcare professionals.

Congratulations Dr. Verma, on your well-deserved retirement! Thank you for your invaluable contributions to our communities, the medical field, and on a personal note, your valuable friendship.

Upsala Luncheon Social

I had a great time at the monthly luncheon social for seniors in Upsala! It was a pleasure to talk with the local seniors and update the community on all the great work that’s been taking place in the riding.

Thank you to the Upsala Volunteer Home Association for inviting me and all the wonderful volunteers that helped out today, these events couldn’t be possible without your support.

Also, a shoutout to all the seniors that made it out today it was a great turnout with over 40 people in attendance!

OPP Bike for Boots on the Ground!

Great to see off all the riders taking part in The OPP’s Bike For Boots On The Ground! Most of these dedicated officers are biking across Ontario, starting from Kenora to Hawkesbury. Best of luck to everyone involved in this incredible journey for a great cause.

To learn more or to donate to Boots On The Ground, visit: https://www.bikeforbotg.ca

Awareness, Showcase and Appreciation

Canada Day Celebrations

I spent the afternoon in Atikokan for their great day of Canada Day celebrations!

Alex Samson of Atikokan on AGT

I’m incredibly proud to share that Atikokan’s own Alex Sampson auditioned on America’s Got Talent!

Congratulations on making it past the first round, Alex. We’re all cheering you on as you continue to compete!

Watch his audition here – https://youtu.be/khk7sBz0hbA?si=SxIpvWuoNr2LHgJD

Daytona’s Restaurant Soft Reopening

I joined my friends at Daytona’s restaurant for their soft reopening after extensive renovations!

Thank you for having me come by and meet your great team, I’m happy to see a great family owned business back open to feed our community.

Monica Walsh of Dryden Wins US Scholarship

I would like to give a big congratulations to Monica Walsh of Dryden for winning a $15,000 US Scholarship for taking first place in the Duck Tape Stuck at Prom competition. This amazing achievement highlights her creativity, dedication, and talent. Way to go, Monica!

Certificate of Recognition from the Grain Farmers of Ontario

I am honoured to receive a certificate of recognition from the Grain Farmers of Ontario.

I will continue to collaborate with and support our local farmers for the betterment of Ontario’s grain and oilseed sector.

Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont Visits Thunder Bay

Happy to have Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont in Thunder Bay! It’s wonderful to have her here to witness the vibrant community at the 55 Plus Centre. This is her first time visiting Thunder Bay since being appointed, and we hope she has a memorable visit and enjoys everything our wonderful city has to offer.

As part of her tour, she stopped by the 55 Plus Centre to see firsthand the fantastic work being done here. Welcome to Thunder Bay, Lieutenant Governor Dumont!

Country on the Bay 2024

A huge thank you to the organizers, vendors, and volunteers for an outstanding weekend at Country on the Bay.

Your hard work and dedication turned this event into a spectacular success. Thanks to you, our community came together to enjoy amazing country music, delicious food, and great company.

Special appreciation goes to the performers for travelling to Thunder Bay to bring their incredible music to country on the bay and making the event truly memorable. We hope to see you back in for next year!

National Historic Recognition and Canada Coast Guard Day

Thunder Bay celebrated National Historic Recognition and Canada Coast Guard Day at the Transportation Museum of Thunder Bay.

In honour of this day, the federal government unveiled a plaque that commemorates the historic significance of the Canadian Coast Guard Ship the Alexander Henry.

Attendees also enjoyed free guided tours of the Alexander Henry, immersing themselves in the rich history and contributions of this remarkable vessel!

Wishing Team Canada Best Wishes at the 2024 Paris Olympics

Good luck to Team Canada in the 2024 Paris Olympics that started this week!

Special best wishes to Abby Dent from Kenora, who will be competing in the women’s eight rowing team.

Go Abby, go Canada!

Carter George, Goaltender from Thunder Bay, Signs with LA Kings

Congratulations to Carter George of Thunder Bay for signing an entry-level contract with the LA Kings!

It’s absolutely amazing to see so much young talent being recognized in Thunder Bay – Atikokan over the past few months.

We will be rooting for you in the coming years, Carter. Once again, a huge congratulations!

Meetings in Thunder Bay

Thank you to John Collin, Terry Olsen, Charla Robertson, Isaac Werner and Joanne Jacyk for taking the time to meet with me and engage in productive discussions. Looking forward to having more meetings in the future.

Condolences

On July 6th, we gathered to remember our good friend Bishop Racicot.

Largely attended by family, friends and colleagues from the municipal world we remembered a great guy, in the most perfect way on an absolutely beautiful day.

We celebrated “Bishops” way with a bar-b-que at the O’Connor Community Centre, the community he served as a Councillor for 26 years.