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Reaching by direct mail 9,000 homes and businesses in North Grenville and Merrickville/Wolford www.ngtimes.ca
Vol. 4, No 33
The Voice of North Grenville
August 17, 2016
Doors Open launches roadmap to heritage
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A beaming Mayor David Gordon in his official t-shirt congratulates Lynne Clifford-Ward (left) and Rowena Cooper on preparations for Doors Open North Grenville nearing completion. by Ken Mews The Doors Open 2016 Committee has announced the line-up of local sites that will throw open their doors to the public on September 24. Reporting to Municipal Council on recent developments, Rowena Cooper, chair of the North Grenville Municipal Heritage Committee, which is co-ordinating the event, revealed the 25 participating local businesses, churches and organizations in a colourful map brochure. She also presented official t-shirts with the Doors Open logo to council members. The NG Times is a sponsor
of this event, regularly publishing profiles of sites since June 1, so regular readers will be well aware that this event is coming up. Lynne CliffordWard, who has organized Doors Open in Smiths Falls twice, has done much of the work of making the North Grenville version a reality, supported by Phil Mosher, of the municipal planning department, with co-ordination by the Heritage Committee and a host of enthusiastic volunteers. Design of the brochure, for example, was donated by TD Graham + Associates, and eQuinelle took care of the printing. The black t-shirts with the striking logo created by municipal staff were pro-
vided by Tallman Truck Centres. Other sponsors include Lockwood Brothers Construction and Grahame’s Bakery. The concept for Doors Open began in France in 1984, and will take place in 43 communities across Ontario this year, between April and October. In the past 14 years, 6.2 million visitors, tourists in their own neighbourhoods and from out of town, have visited Doors Open sites. This influx of guests will have a significant economic impact on the municipality in the short term and improve future tourism prospects. North Grenville is one of only two communities participating for the first time this year.
The purpose of the event is to allow local residents and visitors to explore the heritage in and around their own community - places they would otherwise be unlikely to visit. Many of the sites will feature talks and demonstrations to bring “the story behind every door” to life. This year the focus is on technology and innovation in the past and present, especially medical innovation. To learn more about Doors Open and for more information on the sites you can visit this year in North Grenville, you can go to doorsopenontario.on.ca/northgrenville, or contact Lynne at lcliffordward@gmail.com.
Merrickville/ Wolford Times page 14
The North Grenville Times
Annual Book Fair in need of Volunteers
by Robin Heald, Executive Director, Kemptville Youth Centre Hi Book Lovers, the Kemptville Youth Centre [KYC] is currently in need of more volunteers to help with sorting, restocking and clean-up for the 2016 Book Fair. If you can spare some time based on the following schedule, we would greatly appreciate your help and the help of your friends, congregation, workplace or club! As I’m sure you know, this is the largest fundraising event of the year for the KYC and we need a lot of help in order to raise our goal of $20,000!! This book sale is dedicated to raising the money for our annual mortgage costs and our annual property taxes. Please let me know any times that you may be able to support!! Remember, all high school volunteer will get volunteer hours recognized. Thanks in advance and please email kevinsavoy@actioncoach.com with your availability. Book Drop Off and Sorting Times: • August 13th, 10 to 2 pm at Ferguson Forest Centre 275 County Road 44. Table Set Up and Sorting Times at Ferguson Forest Centre: • Monday, August 15th, 9 am to noon • Tuesday, August 16th, 4 to 8 pm • Wednesday, August 17th, 9 am to noon • Thursday, August 18th, 4 to 8 pm • Friday, August 19th, 9 am to noon • Monday, August 22nd, 9 am to noon • Tuesday, August 23rd, 4 to 8 pm. Wine and Cheese Party Sponsored by Boston Pizza for Sponsors and Volunteers: • Wednesday, August 24th, 7 to 9 pm Sale Hours: • Thursday, August 25th, 10am to 6pm ($2 per book) • Friday, Aug. 26th, 10am to 6pm ($2 per book) • Saturday, Aug. 27th, 9am to 4pm ($2 per book) • Sunday, Aug. 28th, 9am to 4pm ($1 a book day) Huge Tidy Up Sessions: We’re looking for many large groups and organizations to join us for these dates as we had 19,000 books to pack up last year. • Sunday, August 28th 4 to 8 pm. Our goal this time slot is to pack 8 skids to go to the Smiths Falls and District Club for Youth book Fair. We need a lot of people for these 4 hours. • Monday, August 29th from 4 to 8 pm (shifts from 2 to 5 and 5 to 8 pm) • Thursday, August 31st from 1 to 5 pm • Friday, September 1st from 1 to 5 pm • Saturday, September 2nd from 1 to 5 pm Thanks for your time everyone and please share with your contacts.
The Voice of North Grenville
Family Day in the Forest What’s Bugging You?
Wednesday, August 24, 2016, 10 am Ferguson Forest Centre, 275 County Road 44 Join Andrea “The Bug Lady” Howard from Merrickville to see what bugs we can find in the Ferguson Forest. This is an activity for all the family but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Bring drinking water and a jam jar, bug nets will be provided. This event is free and open to the public. For further information call Bill or Monica Wallace at 613-258-6544, or email, wwallace5@cogeco.ca . We will leave from Anniversary Park at 10am. Directions to Anniversary Park: Enter Ferguson Forest Centre at the main entrance (275 County Road 44) and drive along Veterans Way to where it intersects in a T-junction with Honour Way, turn right, and then turn left into the parking lot beside Anniversary Park.
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Sadie McDougall and Payton Cory anticipate a cool treat as DQ Assistant Manager Kim Lamarche awaits their choice.
TIMES The Voice of North Grenville
Reaching by direct mail 9,000 homes and businesses in North Grenville and Merrickville/Wolford
A Good News Update on RING’s Progress
submitted by Leeds & Grenville Immigration Partnership Refugees in North Grenville [RING] would like to thank the community of North Grenville and area for all the support and patience extended in our efforts to sponsor two Syrian refugee families. Through your generosity, RING has received donations and pledges totalling approximately $50,000. In addition, furniture, household items and clothing valued at another $15,000 have also been generously donated. The wide support from individual citizens and groups is inspiring! RING is very pleased to share the news that we now have a potential refugee family - a young Syrian family of four living outside of Beirut, Lebanon. Through contacts in Ottawa and Beirut, this family has been identified and we have agreed to sponsor them. The complex sponsorship application paperwork is currently being completed both here and in Lebanon. While we have good reason to be optimistic, at this point we can’t predict if and when the family will be given approval to travel to Canada. RING will provide another update as soon as we have more definite news.
August 17, 2016
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Jeff Murray, Shawn McDonald, Doug and Fran Thompson, Jesse Sadler and Rick Buffham A sold-out crowd of library supporters participated in last Thursday’s OPP BBQ which benefitted the Friends of the North Grenville Public Library. Sponsor for the event was RB Heating Climate Care, a well known North Grenville enterprise. Spirits were extremely dim last Wednesday when the weatherman predicted an extremely hot day for the BBQ. Not to worry! Doug and Fran Thompson were able to borrow four canopies from Gerry Tallman. A work crew, consisting of Tallman personnel and Friends volunteers, installed them at 10 am Thursday. RB Heating also volunteered a canopy. Music and song was provided by George Buys, local musician and the organizer of the 14th Literary Follies, scheduled September 17-18. Assisting with the BBQ were Don Munz, Jeff Murray, Fran and Doug Thompson, Jean Kilfoyle, Helen Bunn, Rick Buffham, Shawn McDonald, Ricky Lomax and Jesse Sadler. A total of $935 was realized from the sale of hotdogs and hamburgers. Friends extends a gargantuan thank you to Cathy Lindsay, OPP coordinator. The local Friends group has benefitted from these annual BBQs every single year since their inception, at least $10,000 worth! Next week’s barbeque sponsor and charity is the Kemptville Youth Centre. The 16th Annual OPP Charity barbeques are held every Thursday from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at the Kemptville OPP detachment. Hope to see you there!
The 161st Spencerville Fair
From the opening ceremonies on Thursday, September 8, to classic country on stage Sunday afternoon, September 11, the 161st Spencerville Fair is sure to have something to entice fairgoers of all ages. The Spencerville Fair is famous for its first class entertainment, and you are always safe from Mother Nature under our HUGE entertainment tent. Taking the stage on Friday, September 9, is 21 Gun Salute with Alex Ryder opening ($15 advance/$20 door) and Saturday September 10 is Jason Blaine, with Silver Creek as their opener ($20 advance/$25 door). For advance ticket outlets visit spencervillefair.ca. (19+ ID required for admission) Other entertainment, included in fair admission, features Tony True and the Truetones on Saturday afternoon, and, on Sunday afternoon, be sure to see Caroll Baker with Dion Pride and the Next Generation Leahy. Get there early, as this is always a packed and entertaining show Robertson Amusements is once again providing us with a fantastic midway, and Helicopter Rides are back – provided by Kouri’s Kopters – weather August 17, 2016
permitting. And don’t forget about the Tractor Pulls and Demolition Derby. NEW this year - Power Wheels Demolition Derby for the kids to participate in before the adult Derby. Out on the enormous fairgrounds, there’s something going on from morning to night, including performances by President Choice Super Dogs, Saunders Country Critters, The Blacksmith, Carmichael’s Wood Works with carving demonstrations, the Illusionist Lucas Wilson and the Junkyard Symphony.
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Add in an artisan marketplace and exhibit buildings with lots of food, animals and shows and you’ve got four days chock full of lots of things to see and do. Visit spencervillefair. ca or Facebook for our full line-up of tent and grounds entertainment and ticket information. The 161ST SPENCERVILLE FAIR, September 8th to 11th, 2016. WE’RE EXPECTING YOU… rain or shine!
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Editorial
The North Grenville Times
The more we get together.... by David Shanahan Believe it or not, some people get quite upset when you imply that North Grenville is anything other than perfect. I can say 99 positive things about the place (and I do), but pointing out just one problem gets you attacked for being negative, out to undermine the municipal economy and suggesting that we’re all doomed and heading for disaster. None of us are perfect, and so nothing that we produce will have perfection as a characteristic. What we do have in this part of the world is one of the nicest, most peaceful and most compassionate places you could ever hope to live in. The articles in this week’s issue reflect a diverse and complex community, and that is only right and proper. It is absolutely wonderful that we, as a society, are taking steps to support
young people with nowhere to stay. It is fantastic that we have so many successful fundraising events in our community, raising money to take care of all segments of our population. Is it wrong, therefore, to point out that this fundraising is necessary because we do have people who need to be taken care of? It seems to me that, far too often, it seems we are all expected to believe opposing ideas at the same time: a mental feat of gymnastics that, if not actually impossible, is ultimately very bad for your sense of reality. We cannot congratulate ourselves on raising so much money to help people, and at the same time deny that these people need our help. It is far more positive and helpful to admit that not everything is rosey in our local garden. There’s nothing wrong, or disloyal, or antisocial about saying: we have some
problems that are not being addressed by our leaders. We don’t mind if they talk about them, as long as they’re willing to do something about them. Bring us into the discussion: don’t hide unpleasant facts from us. We’re not children; we’re not waiting to pounce on or blame you if things aren’t perfect. Let us know, so we can help. That’s not too revolutionary, is it? For example, there is an article properly and rightly celebrating the fact that the Upper Canada District School Board’s Champions for Kids Foundation raised more than $37,000 to support children who would not otherwise be able to afford many activities, or even food and clothes. But the article also contains this chilling statement: “Statistics suggest 12%19% of children in eastern Ontario are living below the poverty line. Many families are struggling to provide
their children with nutritious meals, clothing, housing and other basic needs. There isn’t always enough money to provide the extras that make childhood more fun and enjoyable.” Can you believe that? Almost 1 in 5 children in our region live below the poverty line. People have to choose between buying groceries, or paying bills. That’s a fact, and there’s no point denying it. But don’t let it become just a negative thing that we want to hide behind happy smiling faces. We are a community that has
Dear Editor: The Liberal's are making a killing on reconnecting disconnected hydro users. In 2015, sixty thousand people had their hydro disconnected in Ontario and the reconnect fee is $160.00, not including a security deposit upon reconnecting, and our energy minister Glen Thibault and the Liberals do not think we have a hydro crisis. Also, the OEB and the Wynne Liberal's do not factor in the # of people who can't afford hydro when they raise our rates in the spring and fall every year and the Liberals stated our rates will increase for the next 17 years and they have no idea how many customers are in arrears due to the quadrupling of our rates at peak time. When the Liberals came to power, our rates were 4.3 cents a kwh all day long. Now our peak rate is 18 cents a kwh and 13.2 cents a kwh at mid peak rate when we need hydro the most. Also, we are over producing hydro which in most cases the Americans, Quebec, and Manitoba are getting our hydro for free or pennies a kwh. Even our off peak rates have doubled as
Beginning Week of Sept. 26 $195 alkeventmanagement.ca 613.853.8308 Dear Editor: I read with a lot of interest the letter written by Candy Whitaker to you about Kemptville Meadows. I'm a homeowner here too, but will be asking to keep my name anonymous, I've seen the attacks homeowners here have had to suffer through, and I don't want to be added to the list. Ms. Whitaker raised a lot of good points about that impact homeowners have been facing here. I personally am stuck, I can't sell, I can't rent, if I rent HOA will charge me a $2,000 fee, and then I'm only allowed to rent out my unit for two years, then I have to either move back in, or pay the second mortgage in full. We've already had to pay one special assessment, our condo fees have gone through the roof, and there's status certificates in place on all the units. The issue with the water pipes has not been resolved, and there's no end in sight. This is worse than being in jail, and I stand to lose absolutely everything. I will say this though, Candy Whitaker is sucking and blowing all at the same time. When I bought my place, I bought it from Stanley
they are now 8.7 cents a kwh. So what have the Liberals done with all this revenue they created as we have the highest hydro rates in North America and.soon we will only own 40% of Hydro One due to the 60% sell off in which the people of Ontario are now financing loans to help sell Hydro One stock, thanks to premier Wynne. The Liberal's keep telling us they have a plan and they are listening to their experts, so I ask you how is their plan working out for you? contact Glen Thibault at Tel 416327-6758 or 705-675-1914 or by email gthibeault.mpp. co@liberal.ola.org Or premier Wynne at Tel 416-325-1941 or 416-4256777 or by email "Premier Wynne" <premier@ontario. ca.>, to let them know the Liberals have created a crisis in Ontario because they just don't get it. Also remember in 4 years time Ontario's debt is predicted to rise to 350 billion dollars--- when they took office our debt was 138 billion. Ross Ayotte, Smiths Falls
August 17, 2016
Marketing Peter Peers peter@ngtimes.ca 613 989-2850
Field Cooperative Development Corporation, who is the developer of Kemptville Meadows. What Candy Whitaker failed to say in her letter is SHE IS STANLEY FIELD. She has been on the board of directors for a long time, along with several other owners of units here at Kemptville Meadows. Candy Whitaker, and the other members of the Stanley Field board, are directly responsible for creating this mess she's now whining and complaining about. What has Stanley Field done to take responsibility for the issues with the development they created? Absolutely nothing, other than to cause havoc and pain for the owners here. I have sat back and watched as Stanley Field board members, including Candy Whitaker, attacked the previous condo board personally and professionally. The condo board fought tooth and nail to try to protect the homeowners, and what they had to put up with was sickening. The Stanley Field board manipulated everyone here to overthrow the condo board, and they succeeded in getting a new condo board in place that is Stanley Field friendly.
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The new condo board isn't doing a damn thing to protect the homeowners. The Stanley Field board has not done anything to help the homeowners. This is their problem, they built this development, they hired the contractors, and they have been making their decisions all along to not take any responsibility for the problems they created. They have burdened the homeowners, and we're now going to lose everything. Quite a few owners have already walked away from their units, so they've already lost everything, and who is going to reimburse them? So Candy Whitaker, and the rest of the Stanley Field board, to you I say, go back and look at all the things you have done. Quit sucking and blowing at the same time. You have created this disaster, every decision you've made, every vote you've had, has been to try and put the onus on everyone else. Quit your bitching, quit writing letters to the editor complaining about your situation when you personally created it. Give every single owner their money back!!!! And get a new condo board in place that will fight for the owners again. A pissed off Homeowner!!! Mailing Address 10 Water Street, Oxford Mills, ON, K0G 1S0
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a long tradition of helping each other when we need it. Yes, we have youth homelessness: but we have people doing something about it and others willing to financially support them. Yes, we have poverty and want; but we have service groups, churches and individuals who are doing something about it. Maybe that should be our motto. Not “Green and Growing”, or “Where lifestyle makes good business”; but “North Grenville: We’re Doing Something About It!”
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Letters to the editor Dear Editor: Re: “Preserving our Heritage”- letter in reply to Jim Stinson’s editorial by Don Kent. Personally, I would prefer to see the Kemptville Courthouse remain as it is, or with whatever maintenance it requires. He asks if it would be possible to locate a condominium tower there. Where will the occupants of this “tower” park their cars? It is very difficult to find a parking spot at the New Library I’m not an architect or engineer, but I don’t think underground parking is an option beside the river. There is absolutely no room for parking along that street (Water Street), or the one around the corner. The traffic is already heavy along the main street by times. People crossing from the Library risked their lives by times because many drivers are in a hurry and don’t appear to be doing the speed limit; or it should be reduce their, and don’t care too much, some of them not at all, for the odd pedestrian in their pathway. My vote goes for keeping the Courthouse. Kath Piché
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Municipality Matters
The Voice of North Grenville
Precision Farming and Future Growth in North Grenville
by Councillor Jim Bertram As one who is not an agricultural practitioner, I must in fairness show a degree of circumspection in any discussion of the subject of agriculture. This field of activity is important to our national economy and in terms of our local economy, it occupies a significant economic niche. Its complexity in production and business terms calls for caution and care in undertaking any discussion relating to it. With those cautions in mind, I would like to take this opportunity to very briefly present some thoughts on a particular subject of growing interest relative to modern agriculture. That subject is Precision Farming. What is Precision Farming ? Briefly, it is the confluence of a number of technological applications which allow for precise, very localised area analysis and preparation as in the following examples: 1. Mapping of soil for purposes related to assessing soil properties and quality, crop suitability, weed patterns, etc; 2. Based on technologically enhanced methods of soil analysis, specific targeted
crop seeding to take account of identified soil characteristics is possible; 3. Specific soil conditioning measures may be applied based on the soil characteristics of a particular field with a view to improving productivity; 4. Electronic weed mapping may be applied to a spraying program in a manner which will economically reduce the amount of spray material necessary for the elimination of weed pests. The preceding examples are a brief list of technologically intensive practices which radically enhance the efficiency and productivity of the application of resources in creating agricultural crops. This approach economises in the use of seed, fuel, human resources, fertilizers , weed control spray and so on. These economies may also have an optimal impact on the surrounding environment , especially when one considers the more efficient use of fuel and weed-spray. More recently, drone technology has also been harnessed within the scope of precision farming technologies. These machines are employed to assist in the aforementioned mapping of field areas with a view to assisting with planning in the preparation and enhancement of fields for agricultural production and for the planning of which crops should optimally be planted in a particular area mapped area based on soil conditions.
Given the productivity enhancements potentially provided for by precision farming techniques, farm revenue should grow. In addition, it is apparent that smaller holdings should become more viable with larger production per unit of land and investment . In addition , the use of alternate technologies such as solar cell technology for the the fuelling of the new machinery involved in precision farming offers the possibility of environmental upgrading combined with the greater productivity referred to above. Some questions pertaining generally to this approach to farming which occur to me at present are : How might the presence or non-presence of this technological reality be affecting rural North Grenville right now? How might it potentially affect North Grenville in future if more extensively implemented? How much potential for economic growth might accrue to a more intensive use of precision farming techniques in North Grenville? What can be done in planning, investment, zoning and educational terms to accelerate the application of precision farming techniques where desirable? How prepared are we at the business, governmental and private levels to take advantage of and facilitate the use of the technologies involved in this already de-
veloping approach to agriculture? Could this general approach to agriculture become a part of the course of study at a newly invigorated Kemptville College, given its productivity and environmental enhancement potential? Could a thriving and growing local food infrastructure be strengthened by the technological catalyst provided by the greater application of precision farming techniques and any zoning measures which might be necessary? I have many other questions as well. But it must for reasons of allocated space suffice for now to open with the sample questions outlined above. Given what may be a good deal of room for economic growth through the application of precision farming techniques in the agricultural sector of North Grenville's economy, I anticipate that these questions and others will be considered in planning for future economic development. North Grenville is in general endowed with a rich mix of human and material resources . This statement of course includes the 80% of residents living in rural North Grenville. I sincerely hope to see the most productive possible combination of those resources for the benefit and well-being of the people of North Grenville as North Grenville continues to grow.
UPDATE UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL Monday, August 22 at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Centre. For agenda information, please visit the Municipal website at www.northgrenville.ca/document-library. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Tuesday, September 6 at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Centre.
GARAGE SALES
Garage sales in North Grenville are regulated by By-Law 10-03. No licence or fee is required, but there are regulations which you must follow. Signage is NOT permitted in traffic circles or attached to traffic signs. Please ensure signage is removed after your sale. Before having a garage sale, please obtain a copy of the by-law from www.northgrenville.ca/document-library.
SWIMMING POOL ENCLOSURES
Swimming pool enclosures in North Grenville are regulated by By-Law 32-98, as amended. This includes all above-ground and in-ground pools. Copies of this by-law are available from the Building Department or the Municipal website. The Municipality of North Grenville 285 County Road 44 PO Box 130 Kemptville, ON, K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-9569 Fax: 613-258-9620 general@northgrenville.on.ca Building: 613-258-4424 Fax: 613-258-1441 Fire Services Info: 613-258-2438 Fax: 613-258-1031 By-Law Services: 613-258-2438 ext. 6 Police Administration: 613-258-3441 Animal Control: 613-862-9002 www.NorthGrenville.ca
Reprieve for special needs students a welcome first step
After months of advocacy on behalf of local families, Leeds-Grenville MPP Steve Clark welcomed an announcement by the Minister of Education that plans to close Provincial Demonstration Schools are off the table. However, Steve said parents and students still have questions about the long-term future of the schools, including Belleville’s Sagonaska Demonstration School, which is home to several students from Leeds-Grenville with severe special education needs. “I’m pleased Minister Hunter has listened to our voices in Opposition and those of parents, students and former students for whom these schools have been nothing short of life-changing,” he said. “But I share the concerns of advocates who August 17, 2016
fear the minister’s commitment to keeping the schools open doesn’t go beyond the short-term.” Steve helped champion the issue at Queen’s Park in Question Period, through correspondence to the ministry and by tabling petitions on behalf of local families who have seen their children flourish thanks to the intensive educational supports and programs offered at Sagonaska. Mike and Lesley Lehman are among the local parents who reached out to MPP Steve Clark for help. They released a statement today that included the following: “Our family is extremely grateful to our MPP Steve Clark for his leadership, support and for his petition which he tabled at Queen’s Park on behalf of children in his riding to keep these Demonstration Schools
Open. “When we first reached out to MPP Clark last March he took the time to listen, learn more about these schools and all the issues. Within 48 hours he contacted us with a plan on how to move forward and we will forever be grateful.” On Friday, the government tabled a report that followed a consultation process that had cast the future of the schools in doubt. “That report validated everything that parents and Opposition MPPs like me were saying for months: the programs offered at Provincial Demonstration schools like Sagonaska simply can’t be replicated in the home school boards of these students,” stressed Steve. “Parents knew this all along because they turned to these schools after years of frustration in dealing with
boards that were unable to give their children the help they needed to reach their full potential.” In calling on the Minister of Education to commit to the long-term future of the schools, Steve Clark urged the government to use them as a centre of excellence to help Ontario’s education system better support all students with special education needs. “This is a model we should be incredibly proud of because it’s giving students hope of a brighter future. Instead of ever contemplating closing them, the minister should be exploring how to expand opportunities to allow more students to benefit from all that Ontario’s Demonstration Schools have to offer,” he said.
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PUBLIC NOTICE HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY Residents of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and the Towns of Prescott and Gananoque can drop off Household Hazardous Waste free of charge. Saturday, August 20, 2016 South Leeds Patrol Garage
Frankville Patrol Garage
2714 Outlet Rd.
331 County Rd. # 29
(North of Lansdowne)
(South of Toledo)
8:30 am – 2:00 pm
8:30 am – 2:00 pm
Saturday, September 24, 2016 S. Grenville Patrol Garage N. Grenville Patrol Garage 2320 County Rd. # 21
720 County Rd. # 44
(East of Spencerville)
(South of Kemptville)
8:30 am – 11:30 am
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Materials accepted include petroleum products, oil filters, antifreeze, paints and solvents, batteries, propane tanks, fertilizers, pesticides, light bulbs, fluorescent light bulbs/tubes and pharmaceuticals, all of which are “household” in nature. Private/commercial business waste will not be accepted. Materials not accepted include commercial and/or industrial waste, electronics, appliances, flares, explosives, PCB’s and radioactive materials. Waste from other municipalities including the City of Brockville will not be accepted.
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Golf tournament raises $37K
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Volunteers Tobi Payant and Lesa Jones manned the Mr. Mozzarella hole at the 2016 Champions for Kids Foundation Golf Tourrnament. Golfers could enjoy a free slice courtesy of the pizzeria. The Upper Canada District School Board [UCDSB] Champions for Kids Foundation (C4K) 2016 Golf Tournament has raised about $37,500 to help area children. More than 100 golfers took to the links at the eQuinelle Golf Club on July 6, enjoying 18 holes of golf, a steak dinner, and a silent auction featuring a variety of items ranging from watches to hotel stays. Their participation, as well as tournament sponsorships from a number of area businesses, helped generate the total. “ We a r e e x t r e m e l y pleased with the support
we received this year from players as well as the many businesses that graciously sponsored our event,” said C4K President Carole Dufort. “The money raised will help us improve the childhood experience for many youth in our area.” The winning team at this year’s tournament was the foursome of Shawn Pankow, Frazer Smith, Ron Brus, and Barry Pankow. The team shot 14-under to take this year’s event. The [UCDSB] Champions for Kids Foundation (C4K) is a charity formed in January 2008 to discreetly help level the playing field
for UCDSB children and their families. Although our main focus is to assist families in allowing their children to participate in sports, arts and other fun activities outside of school hours, we also meet unique needs like covering minor medical expenses (i.e. eyeglasses), providing gas cards to parents with a child in the hospital, or purchasing a winter coat for a child who needs warmth. All assistance is kept confidential. Statistics suggest 12%19% of children in eastern Ontario are living below the poverty line. Many families are struggling to provide
their children with nutritious meals, clothing, housing and other basic needs. There isn't always enough money to provide the extras that make childhood more fun and enjoyable. That's where we come in. C4K has raised and distributed over $1 million since inception! The money has helped hundreds of kids attend summer camp, participate in minor hockey, and minor soccer, paid for dance lessons, and helped families meet their children's medical needs such as pay for eyeglasses, trips for cancer treatment and EpiPens.
Connect Youth housing unit C o n n e c t Yo u t h , t h e agency working with homeless young people, officially opened their new Kemptville branch last week with a ribbon-cutting ceremony outside the Municipal Centre. Representatives from most of the other agencies working with young people were on hand to mark the occasion and underline the need which exists in North Grenville for this service. Children's Mental Health of Leeds and Grenville, the United Way, Interval House, the Kemptville Youth Centre, and the Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Addictions and Mental Health, were joined by Mayor David Gordon and most of the North Grenville Council, and by Mayor David Nash of Merrickville-Wolford for the event. The reason for the ribboncutting was the opening of an emergency housing unit in Kemptville to expand the work of Connect Youth into North Grenville. The need for such an emergency shelter for homeless young people
August 17, 2016
in Kemptville has been made clear through the work already being done in Prescott. Connect Youth have found that 6% of current referrals come from Kemptville, so that makes North Grenville a suitable site for their expansion. Homelessness among young people in this area is often invisible. Those without a safe or secure home either move to Ottawa, or another community, or they may just be couch-surfing at the home of friends. The reasons for homelessness are many and various, and can include issues with addiction, abuse at home, even a sense of being alone in their circumstances with nowhere safe to turn for advice, support or information. Norie Spence, the Chair of Connect Youth welcomed everyone, especially thanking the United Way, of which Connect Youth is an agency, and without which, Norie said, Connect Youth would not exist. The agency needed to expand their emergency housing units for homeless
people in the age group 1621, until more permanent housing arrangements can be secured. Applicants for the unit must have no current living arrangements, with all other housing options having been exhausted. They have to be willing to sign Participation in Service Agreement, be attending school or seeking employment, and be actively seeking permanent housing. To apply for admission to the emergency housing unit which will be set up in Kemptville, contact Connect Youth at 613-246-2092 or connectyouth2@gmail.com. An interview will be set up to determine the need and to complete the intake application and a Case Manager will communicate with other service providers and gather information. Upon approval, arrangements will be made to move in and the admission date will be determined based on availability of the unit.
youth, as the demand for their services far outstripped their ability to respond. Last year, they received 67 referrals for the Prescott unit, but they could only take an average of 1.25 people per month. This meant that more than fifty individuals needing emergency shelter could not be catered to. Kemptville was seen as the natural location for the next expansion unit. Mayor David Gordon congratulated the agency on their work, noting that what Connect Youth provided for young people in need was “a hand up, rather than a handout”. He noted that many young people go through periods when they need help and support just to get them back on track when they’ve been faced with a crisis in life. Norie agreed that Connect Youth has “helped many to go on to college and university, and to live full lives”. The housing unit is part of the Emergency Transitional Housing Program, and provides temporary, 21-day accommodation for young 6
THOMAS M. BYRNE Barrister and Solicitor
Red Carpet Couture struts into Spencerville Rebel Fashion by Designer Robert E. Blackmon and Brockville’s Bonita Bold Fashion take the catwalk at Bold & Rebellious – a community event benefiting the Spencerville Mill and Museum Cue the music, go for lights…Bold & Rebellious strikes a pose in Spencerville on August 27 at 4 pm with an unprecedented fashion event set to be one of the community’s most entertaining and unique fundraisers this season. The flamboyantly stylish, red carpet runway show launches Robert E. Blackmon’s first Rebel women’s wear collection along with selections from Brockville boutique Bonita Bold Fashion which specializes in uniquely beautiful women’s apparel designed and made in Canada. Together, these carefully made, couture pieces give a “bold and rebellious” vibe to casual and dressy local fashion created with loving inspiration and big time glamour. “We’re pulling out all the stops for this one,” said Blackmon. “We want to not only showcase some original Canadian made couture fashion but, also, provide the community that continues, time and time again, to support such great causes with an evening of exceptional entertainment.” The new Rebel line includes bikinis to bridal as well as business and evening attire that spotlights Blackmon’s love of colour and pattern on pattern. “Come and discover the beautiful bold you,” he said “Everything goes with everything if you love it.” He’s also showing men’s accessories so look for samples of his signature vibrant bow ties. Part show and part party, this fun event promises to be the highlight of the summer for both presenters and audience. A well-known Master of Ceremonies from Los Angeles, Big Kim, is flying in to set the runway pace and guests are invited to dress to impress by sporting their favourite ‘fascinator’ hats and other accoutrements. Cocktails at a cash bar, a live auction and a pop-up shopping boutique add to the merriment. Guests can even purchase the one-of-a-kind fashion from the show. Limited front row seating includes champagne, adding a top note of fizz. The setting is a beautiful private home, now tagged House of Two Earls, 6066 County Road 44, Spencerville on a panoramic hilltop overlooking rural Spencerville, one of the most charming villages in eastern Ontario. Proceeds from this special fundraiser go to the Spencerville Mill Foundation for ongoing maintenance of the historic grist Mill & Museum and its scenic riverside park. Limited tickets available. Front row tickets: $50. General admission: $40. Advance tickets via PayPal at: www.spencervillemill.ca or call 613 658-5885. If available, remaining tickets can be purchased at the door. Parking for this event is the Spencerville Fire Hall (south side), 6055 County Road 44. www.ngtimes.ca
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Real Estate ••Wills & ••Corporate Real Estate Wills &Estates Estates Corporate••Family FamilyLaw Law Real Estate • Wills & Estates PAUL A. JANSEN, B.A., LL.B. • Corporate • Family Law PAUL A. B.A., LL.B. PAUL A.JANSEN, JANSEN, B.A.,B.A., LL.B. RACHEL S. JANSEN, B.Comm., PAUL A. JANSEN, LL.B.J.D. J.D. RACHEL S. JANSEN, B.Comm., RACHEL S. JANSEN, B.Comm., J.D. J.D. info@jansenlaw.com | Tel 613-258-7462 | Fax 613-258-7761 RACHEL S. JANSEN, B.Comm., info@jansenlaw.com info@jansenlaw.com || Tel Tel613-258-7462 613-258-7462 || Fax Fax613-258-7761 613-258-7761 215 Van Buren Street,| P.O. Box 820, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 info@jansenlaw.com Tel 613-258-7462 | Fax 613-258-7761 215 215Van VanBuren BurenStreet, Street,P.O. P.O.Box Box820, 820,Kemptville, Kemptville,ON ON K0G K0G1J0 1J0 215 Van Buren Street, P.O. Box 820, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0
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Kemptville District Hospital receives funding boost through the Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund Submitted by Jenny Reid Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) will receive $416,737 this year through the provincial government’s Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund (HIRF) for repairs and upgrades. This funding is part of a $175 million investment in hospitals across Ontario in 2016/17 to keep them in a state of good repair so patients can continue to receive “high quality care in a safe and healthy environment,” according to the province.
This is an increase of $50 million over last year’s HIRF funding. Intended to support crucial infrastructure projects to extend the useful life or improve the quality of hospital facilities, the funding can be used for upgrades or replacements to roofs, windows, HVAC systems, fire alarms and back-up generators. KDH’s CEO, Frank Vassallo, expressed his gratitude for the funding boost. “This is really good news,” he said. “The additional mon-
Let’s Connect…
August is here, with its humid days and dreams of sitting in the shade and relaxing, perhaps by a lake somewhere. At this moment, I’m exactly where I want to be: at home in the early morning watching the birds dart in and out of the trees and the hummingbirds enjoying the fresh flowers that have opened up. I’m also enjoying the wonderful feeling of just having celebrated my daughter Sarah’s birthday last night. Tracy came home on the train Friday night and we spent Saturday getting the house decorated and creating a new gluten free dessert. Lorne and I truly enjoy having our ‘girls’ home. I’m also really enjoying my job. I love the Confucius quote: “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” Although there have been a few tough moments and, often, long days, it is so very satisfying. I will have been at KDHSI for three years on August 19, and I’m wondering what I would put in a progress report. With progress defined as a ‘forward or onward movement, as toward a destination’, how would I August 17, 2016
define the destination? For me, the destination would be that all of our ‘clients’, seniors and adults with physical disabilities, are connected to services that can help them maintain their independence, learn new skills, meet new people, and have a place to be able to talk with someone that can help with ‘navigating the system’. Over the past three years there has been a lot of progress toward this aim. The measurement of this has been that there are more people accessing the services. Most of the services have had significant increases in attendance, including Meals on Wheels, Transportation, Foot Care, Friendly Visiting, Telephone Checks, Diners Clubs and referrals. Additionally, the social activities and the addition of exercise classes have really ‘taken off’. With progress in the services being utilized, there was also need for more volunteers. It is so wonderful that such amazing people are continually stopping by to see how they can help out; from the Board of Directors, to office reception, to the many other
ies will enable us to make much-needed infrastructure improvements that will enhance the experience of the patients and families that KDH serves.” “I would also like to acknowledge the support of the Champlain LHIN in acquiring this funding,” he added. Vassallo explained that the money will be used for projects like crucial repairs to the roof of the 1960s-era wing of the hospital. KDH is one of 135 Ontario hospitals to receive
HIRF funding for 2016/17. The other Eastern Ontario hospitals benefiting from the funding are Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital ($1,408,588), Carleton Place and District Memorial Hospital ($1,042,340), Brockville General Hospital ($312,259) and Lennox and Addington County General Hospital ($238,673). The province also plans to invest $12 billion over 10 years in capital grants to hospitals to build modern infrastructure.
areas. Having our ‘Team’ at KDHSI continually grow is a testament to the value of the services to the community. In order to accommodate the growth in services, it was necessary to add more space. The art class on Tuesdays was in the kitchen when the Meals on Wheels were being packed for delivery. The bridge players had to be out of the dining room by 11:00 on Wednesdays for the Diners Club. The Sing’n Seniors and exercise class were at maximum capacity due to the space in the Dining Room. And the staff were constantly moving the heavy dining room tables around to accommodate the various activities taking place. In ‘moving forward in an onward motion’, we took a leap of faith and renovated a space in the lower level, creating our Activity Room and a wheelchair accessible washroom. The set-up has been paid for through generous donations and fundraising efforts, and now we are embarking on another rung on
this ladder of progress to raise the $35,000 for the renovation. I’m excited to report that we have received over $2,000 to date. It is amazing how quickly donations can add up! So many people contribute on a regular basis to KDHSI. I would like to invite everyone to consider making a gift toward the Activity Room, and spreading the word to other people. We will be adding all of the names to our donor wall in the reception area. This wall will soon be painted a beautiful red, and the donor names will be in white. The progress that has been made over the last 35 years is as a result of the great teamwork of everyone involved with KDHSI. Thank you to everyone for contributing to the great progress report! “Progress lies not in enhancing what is, but in advancing toward what will be.” Khalil Gibran Until next time, Susan Smith, Executive Director, Kemptville & District Home Support
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The Story of a Skater or when they get to celebrate with their friends and coaches their own triumphs and those of their fellow skaters. I enjoy everything about the sport. I never really fell in love with it though until I moved to Kemptville and joined the Kemptville Skating Club family. Since being there, I have had the pleasure of being taught by a number of amazing coaches who have guided me to my own personal successes. They have also guided me through my falls and failures, and taught me how to get back up, literally and metaphorically. Figure skating has made me strong, and has also offered a way for myself and for other figure skaters in the club to get
submitted by Alysha Wenghofer When I was three years old, I was put into my first pair of skates. I started off with a tiny pair of hockey skates that I could barely walk in, never mind skate in. A year later I received my first pair of figure skates. Nothing made me happier than to see one of my parents tying up my little white skates so that I could run onto the ice. I loved everything about it; the skates I wore, the friends around me, and the feeling I got when I was figure skating. To this day, no other accomplishments make me feel the way figure skaters feel when they land a new jump, pass a test, receive a high score at competition 9
through the stress of school and the other challenges that life can throw at you. It is the time of the day that we can skate, dance, spin, jump and feel like we could fly. The Kemptville Skating Club has helped all of us leap into a challenge with a good attitude, whether we knew how it would end or not. I credit my skating club for making me the person I am today. I only wish I had gotten the chance to be a part of the CanSkate program at our club when I was first learning to skate. All the coaches and skaters who become program assistants, P.A.’s, all seem like they make the experience so fun for the kids who sign up. Luckily I am able to get a
slice of the experience now as I help to P.A. the CanSkaters and teach them to skate. It is something I love to do and is just another great part of the skating clubs in Canada. I am still growing as a skater thanks to the amazing community that I am a part of and it is a future that I would suggest to anyone and everyone. There will be sign-ups for The Kemptville Skating Club on August 13 from 1-3 pm, August 24th from 6-8 pm and September 7 from 6-8 pm. If you or your child are looking to learn to become a figure skater or simply learn to skate, it is time to do it. Come sign up. Become a part of The Kemptville Skating Club community. www.ngtimes.ca
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The Pilgrimage begins Thunder and Lightning at Big sky Ranch
Legion Presidents wish their Travel Bugs a safe journey as they place them in a cache to begin the "Pilgrimage of Remembrance". Starting at top of cross: Branch 589, Osgoode, President Pete Loney; Branch 212, Kemptville, President Sharon Murry; Branch 97, Prescott, President Franck Murphy; Branch 434, Chesterville, President Gord MacHardie; and Left side: Branch 372, Russell, President Jeff O'Neil; Right Side: Branch 314, Manotick, President Barry Young. In 1914 they answered the call. “WE ARE AT WAR”. In 1914 these words ricocheted around the world, causing young men by the thousands to join the army to fight for King and country. 2018 is the 100th anniversary of the end of the “Great War”. The last WW1 veteran John Babcock, passed away in 2010. On August 15, 1917, Canadian soldiers were under Canadian Command for the first time. They launched an attack and, in ten days, took Hill 70 in France. 99 years later, on August 15, 2017, we are launching six geocaching Travel Bugs on their “Pilgrimage of Remembrance”! Some rural Royal Canadian Legions, Eastern Ontario Geocachers and the North Grenville Times have come together to “Remember” all Canadians who put their lives on the line in a unique way. Far from the tribulations and dangers of real war, we will trace their steps through a game. A geocaching game piece called a “Travel Bug” (TB) will become a fictional character simulating a young soldier who, back in 1914 – 1918, travelled from small towns all over Ontario to Europe and War. The Legions participating in this unique act of remembrance are: Branch 589,
Osgoode; Branch 212, Kemptville; Branch 97, Prescott; Branch 434, Chesterville; Branch 372, Russell; and Branch 314, Manotick. The Eastern Ontario Geocachers group is part of a world-wide community dedicated to teaching others about the world around them by playing a family-oriented treasure hunt called geocaching. Geocachers have given the character a name, occupation and a home. As a part of this game, cachers will search for the treasure and give our character life by moving it from place to place and country to country. The Royal Canadian Legion was established in 1925 to help returning veterans get back into civilian life and to make certain that Canadians never forget the sacrifices that these young people made. In this game, each participating Legion Branch will be the home and family for its character. They will follow the character's movement as it moves along on its pilgrimage, and will celebrate its return, hopefully in time for Remembrance Day, 2018. The North Grenville Times is where you can get to know the Character as it fulfils its mission. Together we will give you a fun-filled experience of remembering.
Howdy! Thunder the Fainting Goat reporting from Big Sky Ranch. Let me begin by explaining what it means to be a Fainting Goat. I am really just a regular domestic goat with a genetic disorder called myotonic congentia. It is a relatively harmless problem, when I am stressed, feel panic or get excited (mostly when breakfast is being served), my muscles will stiffen up a bit. Other sufferers will ‘freeze up’ for about 10 seconds, some will even topple over. The freeze up is caused by the body muscles relaxing slower than normal, giving the appearance of freezing up or fainting. Its not true faint because consciousness is never lost. The gene is not expressed strongly in me so that is why I only go
a bit stiff. I am strong, fit, confident and very curious, just a bit of a celebrity here at the Sanctuary. I arrived with another goat friend and we made a dramatic entrance. Just as we arrived, lightning struck a massive old tree, causing it to come crashing down! I was quickly named Thunder and my friend became known as Lightning! Our reason for coming to the Sanctuary was because I am known to be a bit of an escape artist. Yup! I haven’t found a fence built that can keep me in. I have accepted the fence challenges and conquered them all; over, under or right through, I like to be out and about. My curious self likes to be in the middle of things, to see what goes on,
on the other side of the fence. Andy had me figured out pretty quickly, he discovered that I like to be the centre of all activity and get loads of attention. Now that everyone is aware of my need to be in the centre of everything, I am the first to get love, the last pets are always mine, I don’t try to escape because my goat needs are being met. I continue to enjoy fences but have found that munching on the ones here are almost as exciting as escaping from them. Please accept my personal invitation to come to Big Sky Ranch Sanctuary and visit my friends and I. Tell everyone, Thunder invited you! Please check out our website www.bigskyranch.ca for more info and times. Maybe when you
come you would consider making a donation, none will be turned away. It helps keep us in food and fences. Goat grins for now!
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Don’t miss the Bug Lady See page 2 for details
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The Thousand Island dream by David Shanahan Municipalities are strapped for cash these days, looking for new sources of revenue all the time. Can you imagine what the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville [UCLG] would give to have ownership of the Thousand Islands, one of the biggest tourist attractions in the province of Ontario? Well, they almost managed that. The Thousand Islands are part of a huge territory ceded by the Mississaugas to the Crown under questionable circumstances back in 1783. But they kept ownership of the islands in the St. Lawrence until 1856, when they surrendered them to be sold for their benefit. By 1872, very few of the islands had been sold, but most of the habitable ones had been taken over by squatters, or else were being used by the people of the United Counties for recreational purposes. The Mississaugas of Alnwick (now the Alderville First Nation) petitioned the government in 1872 to push through the sale of the islands, and word soon got out that the Thousand Islands were up for sale. On June 1, 1873, the Council of the UCLG passed a Petition to the Governor General, asking that the sale not be proceeded with, as it
would deny their residents access to the islands, if they fell into private hands. “Your petitioners would respectfully submit that these islands should be retained by the Government as a place of resort for the people of these United Counties adjacent thereto, as well as of the whole Dominion generally... Your petitioners feel that if the inhabitants of these United Counties and the people of the Dominion generally be prevented from landing on these islands by reason of their sale it would be a great grievance.” In August, 1873, the UCLG were informed that the government was bound by law to sell the islands at the request of the Mississauga. The Council considered this problem and came to a momentous decision: they would offer to buy the islands themselves. They wrote to the government in November, asking what terms would be expected. J. K. Read, reeve of the Township of Oxford, was elected Warden of the UCLG for 1874, and, in February, ordered that a plan of the islands facing the Counties be prepared for submission to the government. Following this, in June, 1874, the Council decided to make a trip to investigate the islands themselves, voting the sum
of $108 to cover the expenses. They also invited the Councils of Brockville and Prescott to join them on the outing. This may have been in recognition of a petition sent to the government by Brockville’s Council in May, asking that at least two of the islands facing their town be sold either to them or to the UCLG. Prescott’s Council sent a similar petition at the same time, in which they pointed out the use that was being made of them by the people of Leeds & Grenville for years past: “That these Islands have hitherto been one of the inducements of the pleasure seeking travellers to induce them to take the St. Lawrence route during hot Summer months and that these Islands of always furnished pleasure retreats to our businessmen for fresh air, fishing, picknicking and other amusements of alike description, while the beaches and delightful scenery of the Islands have been in no way injured. Your petitioners are afraid that if the islands are sold the timber now growing on them will be destroyed, their beauty spoiled and the source of health and recreation they now afford to the Public will be utterly destroyed”. It is unclear whether the Councillors made their trip
to view the Thousand Islands, but, perhaps to their everlasting loss, they were never given the chance to put in a bid to purchase them. Ironically, because of the widespread opposition of the public to the sale of the islands, as expressed, at least in part, in those petitions, the government decided not to sell any islands, other than those already having settlers in possession. The UCLG Council quickly turned to other matters. For the remainder of
1874 they concentrated on the iron bridge in Gananoque, and whether it should become a County bridge with a toll booth. As for the Thousand Islands, they remained a source of concern for the Mississaugas, as their territory continued to be exploited by squatters, day-trippers and tourists. Finally, in 1904, thirty years after the attempt by the UCLG to buy them, the Canadian Government took over a number of the islands and established the St. Lawrence Islands National Park.
Then, in 1965, eighty-three of the islands were bought by the Department of Northern Affairs and National Resources in a very good deal, paying just $4,260 for them. In 2013, the Park was renamed the Thousand Islands National Park.
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Aug 18-22 South Mountain Fair, for more information visit our website at
www.southmountainfair.ca Aug 20 Charity BBQ in the KBC Rona/Kemptville Interiors parking lot. Free kids activities: Bouncy castle, face painting, 11am - 2pm. Proceeds to Ronald McDonald Charity House. Aug 20 Kemptville Legion yearly golf tournament, Nationview Golf Course – Best Ball–Shot Gun Start, 10 am. $70 per player paid by Aug 12/16 (includes green fees, golf cart & dinner at the Legion.) Contact Chico Horricks 613-978-7828 or by e-mail chicohorricks@gmail.com Aug 20 St. James Anglican Church Tag Sale at Leslie Hall, 35 Clothier St.West, from 8 am - 2 pm. Items of quality for home, garden and cottage, at good prices." Aug 20-21 AUDITIONS for Theatre Night in Merrickvilles' fall, production comedy/drama, 2 pm upstairs in Merrickville Community Centre, Reid Street. 1 male 18-20, 3 men 30-60, 2 woman 40-60. For info call Margaret 613-269-3729. Aug 24 Friends of the Ferguson Forest will host “Family Bug Day” with Andrea “The Bug Lady” Howard. Meet at Anniversary Park at 10am. Small children must be accompanied. Call Bill or Monica Wallace at 613 258 6544 for more information. Aug 27 Hospice Hoedown, for more information, visit ‘Hospice Hoedown 2016’ on Facebook.
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BNI Networking Group Breakfast, Grenville Mutual Insurance Building, 380 Colonnade Dr, 7- 8:30 am. Info: 613-918-0430. Bridge- St. John’s United Church, 12:15 pm. Cost $4. All levels of bridge players welcome. Info, contact Sandra at 613-258-2691. The Branch Artisans Guild, North Grenville Community Church, 2659 Concession Street every 3rd Tuesday, 7 pm. New members welcomed! NG Photography Club - first Wednesday of every month from 7-9 pm at the Auditorium of the Municipal Centre. See ngphotoclub.ca Klub 67 Euchre every second and fourth Wednesday of the month beginning September 14, 1:15 p. m. St. John's United Church downstairs. Everyone welcome $5.00. Bingo- First and third Wednesday of the month, Kemptville Legion. Games start at 1 pm. All welcome. Refreshments available. Kemptville Legion cribbage night, 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. Start time 7 pm. All welcome. Come and play for fun. New Horizon Club, 2nd & 4th Wed. at the Burritt`s Rapids Community Hall. Regular meetings begin at 2 pm. Special events with lunch begin at noon. Programs call 258-9315, membership info Janet at 269-2737. Bridge - St. John’s United Church, 6:45 pm. Cost $5. All levels of bridge players welcome. For more info, contact Sandra at 613-258-2691. North Grenville Toastmasters - Meeting 1st & 3rd Thurs. of the month, 7 pm at O’Farrell’s Financial Services, Cty Rd 44. Info, call 258-7665. Twice The Fun Games (200 Sanders St. Unit 103) is your host for Game Night, 2nd and 4th Friday every month, 6-10 pm. Bring your favourite game or borrow one from their library. All ages welcome. Kemptville Legion breakfast, 8 - 10 am third Saturday of every month. Adults $5. Children under 12 $3. All welcome. St. John’s United Church Farmer’s Market, 400 Prescott Street, Kemptville, 8 am-12 noon in support of the Canadian FoodGrains Bank. Community grown produce, preserves, baking. Started in 2004, all funds go to fight global hunger. Twice The Fun Games (200 Sanders St. Unit 103) selects a game for their “Organized Play” and "Learn to Play" events, 1-4 pm . No experience needed. See what games are coming up, sign up for their newsletter. Kemptville and Area Walking Group, Municipal Centre - Early birds: 8 am, others 8:30 am. Contact: Eva 258-4487.
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August 17, 2016
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First 10 words are FREE for North Grenville and Merrickville/Wolford Residents. Extra Words: 50 cents a word. Email production@ngtimes.ca SERVICES Housecleaning Every mother/ father needs a housewife phone Sandy 613.219.7277 WELL GROUNDED FOOT CARE ADVANCED/ DIABETIC MOBILE CLINIC. ANITA PLUNKETT R.P.N. 613294-2122 WELLGROUNDED2016@ GMAIL.COM
GRANT’S LAWN CARE Lawn mowing and trimming Competative pricing 613.258.5284 Landscaping, grass cutting, flower beds. Create, install, maintain. Call Al Scott, C: 613.295.0300 H: 613.258.3847 Fully Insured Post-Concussion Tutoring Support OCT certified. Ashley: 613-898-8676 or ashley@ magma.ca
Certified Packer can help you prepare for your move. Cinderella 613.859.4644
4 BEDROOM COUNTRY HOME, HECKSTON, $1,400 + UTILITIES. CALL 613.258.4741
PIANO LESSONS for everyone. All styles, all ages. 613 324.0382 www.kemptvillemusic.com
2 bedroom, Kemptville $950 +. Central location, private balcony, heated floor, natural gas. Clean, quiet, references required 613.263.5476
Speech therapy for children in Kemptville and surrounding area. www.wellingtonkids.ca 613-206-1627 Brendan Plunkett: Finishing Carpentry Call or e-mail for a quote. 613-986-4533 plunkett1994@hotmail.com Rural Home Care servicesAffordable, personal, professional & experienced care for your loved one. 613.868.0356
MATH TUTORING, qualified teacher. Grades 7-11, 8-9pm in old town 613.863.5639
ONE ON ONE Computer Training: Sigma Computer Systems is now offering 1/2 hour classes on Saturdays. Please call 613.258.9716 for more information
CFSC $ CRFSC Courses and exams Steve Hoy 613.258.6162 2shoy@xplornet.com
HANDY MAN specializing in renovations & house staging. We do it all CALL 613.294.2416
COMMISSIONED OIL PAINTINGS / PRIVATE ART LESSONSmiriammas.wix.com/mmas FB: MiriamMasArt DJ’S RENOVATONS. We’re committed to your Renovation. We do it all. 613.698.5733 Music is a gift, let me help you unwrap it! Piano lessons for adults and children by RCM certified teacher. 613.324.0382 The Plumb”Mur” Plus Bathroom PLUS more. Murray 613.519.5274 nmmuir@gmail. com Mobile Foot Care - TOES IN NEED 613.858.4383 If you want to purchase AVON products, call Joan 613.258.7644 Frame Local! Country Ways Custom Picture framing 613.322.6484 dam5@bell.net Heartburn, bloated, frequent colds? Digestive issue solutions. Carol Pillar R.H.N. Nutrition Coach 613.258.7133 support@ wholesumapproach.com Stucco & Parging Services, also specializing in repointing & chinking. Free estimates. cedarrockcontracting@gmail.com 613.818.5187
August 17, 2016
You Name It, I Can Sew It. Call Rhonda at 258-5248 Fencing and Deck Specialist, Renovations 20 yrs experience Brian 613 215 0805 Property clean-up, trees/brush/yard waste, scrap metal, dump runs, anything removed. Call Wayne Scott at 613 286 9072 Complete Home Property Clean up: house cleaning, dump runs, etc. Call Al’s Clean up services 613.258.3847 613.295.0300 Rock My House music lessons in fiddle, piano, drums and more. 613 258 5656 Handyman/Contractor with years of experience. No job too big or small. Unlimited references, call for free estimate 613.791.8597
PANASONIC AIR CONDITIONER 10,000 BTU GOOD SHAPE $175 CALL 613 258-2753
1983 CHEVY CONVERSION VAN, CAPTAIN SEATS AND FOLD DOWN BED. BEST OFFER 258-4671
Furnished Room For Rent in Oxford Mills, $650 a month. Call 613.294.7420
CLINTON UPRIGHT PIANO, FREE. 258-4671
Commercial warehouse (up to 6,000 Sq Ft, will divide) and office (500 Sq Ft) to rent/ lease. 18 ft ceilings, column free area, 14 ft overhead doors and mandoors, heat available. Kemptville Colonnade area. Call 613.258.1133 or 613.229.0566
FIREWOOD (PINE) CUT /SPLIT /DRY $59.00 / CHORD PICK UP 613 269 3836
VARIETY OF LUMBER, PINE, HEMLOCK, MAPLE, SPRUCE, 1” AND 2”. FOR DETAILS CALL 314-9327. NORDICK TRACK T4.0 TREADMILLFOLDS UP FOR EASY STORAGE. $500 613.258.0589
Renovated Ground Floor Office 1,900 sqft, 200 Sanders St. Kemptville 613.795.2389
3 BED/2BATH HIGH RANCH IN OSGOODE ONLY $358,000 WWW.3300ANNETTE.COM 1D:1002232
WANTED LOOKING TO RENT FARMLAND SOUTH OF OTTAWA. CONTACT ME BY PHONE OR TEXT. (613-262-1204)
FREE SAWDUST. LARGE QUANTITIES. CALL BOB AT 613.850.4203
250 ML CANNING JARS FOR CHARITY JAM & JELLY SALES. CALL BILLY/VALERIE @ 258.4529
PACIFIC ENERGY WOOD STOVE AND CHIMNEY, 5 YRS OLD, GLASS DOOR AND TOOLS $1000. CALL 613 258 6401
LOOKING FOR LABOURER AND SKILLED ROOFER. CALL OR TEXT 613.894.5210
2015 CHEVY CRUZE 1.4LT. TURBO LOADED 3800KM $17,000 613.258.7323
WANTED 2 OR 3 BEDROOM APARTMENT ON ONE FLOOR, KEMPTVILLE 613.258.0964
BABY BASSINET, NAVY/WHITE $40. OO MERRICKVILLE 613.803.7274
ONE OWNER, 24.5 PROWLER 5TH WHEEL WITH SLIDE OUT. $4000. 5TH WHEEL HITCH AVAILABLE. 613-258-5769. KEMPTVILLE
GARAGE SALE AUGUST 13TH 1202 EAGER RD 8:30 - 1:00.
EDITORIAL COPY DEADLINE All editorial copy must be sent to editor@ngtimes.ca by Friday, 4 pm. In the event that this is not possible, please notify the editor by Friday that you are sending in copy, and submit by Sunday noon at the latest.
PLEASE JOIN US!
Family and friends
Please join us in celebrating the
50th WEDDING Anniversary of our parents,
Paul and Marion McGahey (nee Meehan) An afternoon drop in is planned for Sunday, August 21, 2016, 1:30 - 4 PM 303 French Settlement Rd. (Bill & Jen’s Hill’s home) Best wishes only Hosted with love by their children: Jennifer, Joey & Christopher, and their families
STORE METAL SHELVING, LARGE QUANTITIES BEST OFFER MUST SELL 613.314.9327
Senior needs old car batteries for making weights. Call 613 258 6254.
2 BDRM CONDO FOR RENT SEPT. 1. CONVENIENT CENTRAL KEMPTVILLE LOCATION. ALL APPLIANCES, WASHER/DRYER, PARKING AND AC.BRIGHT AND CLEAN. REFERENCES AND CREDIT CHECK REQUIRED. 613-558-1761.
Technical Sales Specialist needed. www.Solacity. com/jobs/
FIREARMS AND HUNTER SAFETY COURSES Beginning Sept. 6,7,8 & 13,14,15 Evenings, in Kemptville. Minimum age 12. Pre-registration required, limited seating. Tony Gundy Home:258-7816 Cell: 355-2607, Office 258-1876 keewaytin@gmail.com
MILLED HARDWOOD LUMBER CHERRY-MAPLE -OAK $1.75/ BOARD FT. 613 269 3836
1 bedroom apartment, Kemptville area, Country Setting, 2nd floor, 4 appliances, WIFI & Satellite TV $920 incl. First & last. No pets. 613.404.6701
FOR SALE
HELP WANTED
OWNERS RETIRING 35%OFF STORE WIDE EXCLUDING HELIUM ESTATE SALE BALLOONS AND MEDELA PRODUCTS LOUISE & COMPANY, CREEKEstate Sale Saturday AuSIDE CENTRE, KEMPTVILLE 613 gust 20, 0900 -1300, 295 258 0222 Davis Road, Merrickville
One bedroom apartment. All utilities included except hydro. Satellite tv/ WiFi included. Country setting, Oxford station area. Available Sept 1st. $900 month 613 258 3768
FOR RENT
DOWNTOWN KEMPTVILLE CENTURY HOME 4 BEDROOM 11/2 BATHROOMS HOT TUB TONY -6137200942
2013 GRAND CARAVAN, WHITE 29,000KM STO N’ GO WITH TOW PACKAGE $17,000 613-8805458
MIXED HARDWOOD FIREWOOD, $100 A CORD DELIVERED. JON 2273650
Chain link fence and steel posts, apprx. 300” and fittings. 76x6x10 pressure treated posts. 613 808 4707 2008 Ford Ranger with cap 108,500 km; new tires, brakes, battery. $8,500. 613 258 2119
ESTATE SALE SATURDAY AUGUST 13, 0900 -1300 295 DAVIS ROAD
DIGITAL ASTHMA monitor never used $40. Call 613-215-0669 13
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Merrickville/Wolford Times The North Grenville Times
The Voice of North Grenville
Reaching by direct mail 9,000 homes and businesses in Merrickville/Wolford and North Grenville
the Merrickville-Wolford
Vol. 1, No. 39
TIMES The Voice of Merrickville/Wolford
Refugee Sponsorship in Merrickville-Wolford
Submitted by Leeds & Grenville Immigration Partnership Merrickville is one of several local communities that is working to bring a refugee family to Canada. A question that some people have raised is whether Merrickville-Wolford (population 2,850 in 2011) is large enough to do this successfully. Will a refugee family want to be in a small community that lacks many of the resources on offer in larger centres? Consider some of the positives. Like many small
communities, Merrickville has good primary schools and daycare, and excellent secondary schools in Kemptville, a 15-minute bus ride away. Merrickville has a first-class Community Health Centre that has agreed to look after health needs, including dental and foot care. Merrickville does not have box stores, but does have a small well stocked grocery and many small stores and restaurants. Fulford Preparatory College (in the former Sam Jakes Inn) is a private boarding school for international stu-
possible. Without language skills, job opportunities are very limited, and passing a driving test may be impossible. Children learn a language quickly and easily, but adults need regular ESL training. From a small community, this requires daily travel to a larger centre, incurring costs and time. Another negative is the potential for feelings of isolation because other families from the same culture are not within walking distance, and public transport does not exist. Most refugee families would probably prefer to be in a large community with more resources, more jobs, and with greater opportunity to mix with families from the same culture. Nevertheless, a well-organized sponsorship from a small community can provide a safe haven for a start in a new country, an opportunity to raise children in good schools, and perhaps even open doors for starting a small business. Some
dents, with several Arabicspeaking students who are eager to help with day-today translation services. Merrickville is a 15-minute drive from both Kemptville and Smiths Falls, and 45 minutes to Brockville, all larger centres with greater resources. Probably most important, Merrickville has a strong sense of community and volunteers are easy to find. Recent articles written about the problems that refugees face have emphasized the importance of learning English as soon as
refugees may prefer to be in a small community away from the bewildering noise and impersonality of a large city. The family may choose to move on after a year or so, but they will have experienced a welcome and will have made friendships to help them on their way. The Merrickville-Wolford group named â&#x20AC;&#x153;Merrickville Bridge to Canadaâ&#x20AC;? (www.merrickville-bridge. ca) is part of a country-wide network of communities that believe they can make a difference in helping refugees get settled in a new life.
August 17, 2016
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The 178th Merrickville Fair was held on the weekend, with rain holding attendance back on Saturday, but Sunday's crowds made up for it. The garden tractor races and chainsaw events were popular, and the Friday night dance, with Eddie and the Stingrays was a hit.
Welcome to Canaltripping Our rental centre at The Depot in Blockhouse Park in Merrickville opens June 24. You can rent a canoe or kayak for an hour, a day or a week by phone, right now! We deliver boats anywhere from Kingston to Ottawa. The best paddling anywhere on the Rideau starts from Merrickville. 50 boats in stock: canoes, tandems, singles, sea kayaks, playboats. For more information visit www.canaltripping.com or call August 17, 2016
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Classic Theatre’s Mystery Play opens August 19
The versatile actor William Vickers, who starred in the comic role of screenwriter Herbert Tucker earlier this summer in I Ought to be in Pictures (and as the outrageous Victor Velasco in Barefoot in the Park), now turns to a more serious role as the Inspector in the edge-of-yourseat mystery An Inspector Calls, opening August 19 and running to September 11 at the Classic Theatre Festival, 54 Beckwith Street East, in Perth. Tickets available at www.classictheatre. ca or 1-877-283-1283. (Photos: Jean-Denis Labelle) submitted by Matthew Behrens A body has shown up, and everyone on stage is a suspect. It’s the starting point for An Inspector Calls, and what at first glance sounds like a familiar plot becomes, in the hands of legendary British playwright J.B. Priestley, a masterful work that has thrilled audiences for over 70 years. An Inspector Calls opens at the Classic Theatre Festival (54 Beckwith Street East in Perth) on August 19 and runs
until September 11, with a plot that bounces back and forth with audiences trying to determine up to the very last line of the show who is ultimately responsible for the death of a young woman. Set in 1912 on the eve of the First World War, the play is a gripping study of an era that is about to become completely unraveled by events that continue to shape the modern world, from the loss of “an unsinkable ship” known as the Titanic to the fiery cauldron that is now be-
ing recalled a century later as the First World War. As the show begins, two British families are celebrating a “family merger” of sorts when young Sheila Birling announces her engagement to the well-to-do Gerald Croft, whose family business represents not only great wealth and security, but also a potential business merger for her father, Arthur Birling, with Croft’s father. As characters reflect on the inevitability of their continued success in what seems an imperme-
able bubble isolated from the world without, a knock comes on the door, and with it, the mysterious Inspector Goole arrives to ask some questions. In the same way many European societies are about to come apart in 1912 and 1913, so it is with this family, as Goole’s investigation begins to draw out very suspicious activities on the part of each and every character on stage. There will be times when even audiences members will feel they could be called onto the stage for questioning or tapped on the shoulder to determine if they had any role in the death of the young woman. An Inspector Calls is one of the most successful British plays of the 20th century, and has been the focus of a continuous National Theatre world our since 1991, in addition to being remade once again on film with a 2016 BBC show. The Classic Theatre Festival production, directed by Laurel Smith, features William Vickers (seen earlier this summer as the screenwriter Herb in Neil Simon’s comedy, I Ought to be in Pictures) as the determined Inspector. The cast also features a fine collection of Canadian talents who are both Festival veterans as well as newcomers to Perth. They include Greg Campbell as the Birling family patriarch (after his star
turns in Dial M for Murder and Wait Until Dark) and Elana Post as his wife (Post is an award-winning actor, director, and independent filmmaker from southern Ontario who began her career in the 1993 Stratford Festival production of The Mikado). Gerald Croft is played by the multi-talented Fraser Elsdon, who performs on stage and TV while working as a playwright as well. Sheila is portrayed by Anna Burkholder, a highly skilled British-trained performer who played in Timon of Athens with the U.K. National Theatre. Younger son Eric is played by Perth-born and raised Sean Jacklin, a recent graduate of the George Brown Theatre School in Toronto. Sean appeared last year as the bedeviled telephone repairman in Barefoot in the Park, and this season directed the two historic theatrical walking plays for the Festival (River of Memory and A Taste of Perth, which run until the end of August). Making her professional debut is another local talent, Breanna Critchley, who is playing the family maid, Edna. Tickets to An Inspector Calls (as well as the theatrical historic walking plays) are available at www.classictheatre.ca or 1-877-283-1283.
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NG Youth Up! - Pushing for Change lessness. The fact that it is an almost invisible issue here is partly because many of those affected are couch-surfing, rather than sleeping on the streets, and also because the most urgent cases are being sent to Prescott and Ottawa for help. NG Youth Up! is the brainchild of Craig McCormack, well-known in the community as an OPP Sergeant, and someone who knows the issue very well. When he came across Joe Robert’s video on YouTube, he felt called upon to do something locally. "I read about Joe Roberts Push for Change Campaign in January on my workplace website. It was like a calling/challenge for me to invite Joe and his team to our town”, says Craig. “Now that he has added our town and vicinity as part of his journey across Canada, I see this event as a optimal opportunity for North Grenville Youth Up to work with other youth caring agencies
Some members of the NG Youth Up! Committee: left to right, Craig McCormack, Sandy Archibald, Melanie Spiteri, Brad Latta and Mary Cook by David Shanahan A few weeks ago, we reported that a local committee had been set up to arrange a visit to the area by Joe Roberts, who is pushing a shopping cart across Canada to raise money and awareness of the issue of youth homelessness. Joe, who spent time on the streets of Vancouver, is now a successful businessman who wants August 17, 2016
to give something back. He calls his campaign Push For Change, and he uses the shopping cart as a symbol of homelessness. The local committee has formed North Grenville Youth Up! and is holding a day of activity on Sunday, October 2, 2016. Joe Roberts has agreed to stop by North Grenville for the afternoon and speak to residents about the issues and his campaign. Those who have heard
Joe are very excited to bring him here, and invite everyone to come out and hear him, enjoy a free BBQ, and perhaps take part in a short walk with Joe. More details will be released as they are confirmed. The opening of the Connect Youth emergency housing unit in Kemptville, as reported elsewhere in this issue, is an indication that we in North Grenville are not at all immune from the problem of youth home15
and make a positive impact in youth homelessness issues! " Other members of the committee have their own reasons for getting involved. One of them remembers very clearly being homeless for about eighteen months when they were 18 and 19 years old. “I used to pass by houses at night, where the lights were on and you could see families watching TV together, or having supper. It looked so warm and safe. But I had to keep walking on through the night, wondering where I would sleep and when I would eat again. I remember walking from one side of the city to a friend’s house the other side, hoping he’d be able to give me a meal and a place to stay for the night.” It isn’t always a drug issue, or some other addiction that leads to homelessness for young people. It can be family difficulties, abuse of some kind, or one of so many other problems
that leave a young person with no home they can go to. North Grenville Youth Up! are looking for your support. Half of every dollar raised through the Push for Change campaign in this area, stays in the area, and will be donated to the Kemptville Youth Centre so that they can continue to be a link between homeless young people and a way back to regular life. Donations can be made through the Push for Change website, and through NG Youth Up! Go to Facebook and check out both groups’ pages. There will be other activities taking place between now and Joe’s arrival in October, and the NG Times will be telling you all about them in the weeks ahead. In the meantime, we have a video of Joe’s on our Facebook page, talking about the Barefoot Challenge. It’s coming here too, so have a look and get into the campaign to end youth homeless ness in our region. www.ngtimes.ca
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The Voice of North Grenville
The North Grenville Photography Club Councillors and Community by David Shanahan The 2016 report by the Rural Ontario Institute, “Municipal Councillor Profile”, has gathered information from a survey of many of those elected to Council in 2014, to establish a base level of data for understanding who gets elected to such positions, and how and why they do. The basic information, which we reported last week, shows that 75% of Ontario’s councillors and mayors are men, with men occupying 83% of the ‘heads of council’ positions. The median age for councillors and mayors is 60, relative to Ontario’s median age of 40, with roughly 70% of councillors falling between the ages of 50 and 70 and only 9% falling between 18 and 40. But the Report’s main aim was to use the information gathered to identify both the pros and contras of the current situation, and to suggest methods by which a broader range of residents can become involved in municipal politics to the betterment of all. What they found is very useful and has real practical application for those of us living in North Grenville and in Merrickville-Wolford. One of the most interesting points made in the Report, and one which many in North Grenville have been making for some years now, is that traditional ways of assessing the success, or vitality, of a community are no longer widely accepted. “A growing focus on community vitality in the field of community development stems in large part from a discontent with traditional economic determinants of growth and progress. This has led communities and academics alike to critically examine the idea of ‘vitality’, both in theory and practice, with a wide array of definitions and metrics for measurement emerging across different communities.” In other words, the conventional way of deciding
Pat Kuffner submitted this lovely image of a Gloriosa Daisy. Pat explains her strategy when capturing this shot, "My photograph started with selecting an attractive flower with bright petals. I used a macro lens and tripod. The tricky part was experimenting with different angles at a low level to have the flower stand out from the rest and create a wow factor."
August 17, 2016
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whether a community is “vibrant”, or even “Green and Growing”, has been by counting bricks and mortar: how many new homes are being built, and how many big box stores and malls have been added to the region. As we have been finding in North Grenville, these criteria do not allow us to adequately assess a community’s state of wellness (to use a trendy term). This emphasis on commercial development, mistakenly confused with economic development, is, perhaps, best reflected in the official motto of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville: “Where lifestyle grows good business”. Aside from the fact that the statement is vague, possibly even meaningless, it indicates a belief that lifestyle is directly related to business. It can also be seen in the traditional belief that communities “Grow or Die”. The question becomes, what does growth mean in that context? The Rural Ontario Institute Report suggests that what is necessary to make a vibrant and healthy community is what it calls “civic engagement”: “Civic engagement, therefore, is a concept that helps us to understand the contributions of everyday citizens to community wellbeing or ‘vitality’. There are many differing understandings of what constitutes ‘civic-engagement’, ranging from volunteering, to activism to formal political engagement. This project has chosen to specifically address community engage-
ment in municipal political leadership.” This relates to municipal government because, the Report suggests, it takes an alliance, a working partnership, between municipal government and residents to make a community truly vibrant and successful. This not only means that residents, with all of their energy, expertise and experience, need to be brought into the municipal equation as fully as possible, but that the make-up of Councils needs to adapt to that concept, instead of seeing themselves as the final arbiters of the community’s future destiny and destination. The Report says that Councils need to attract young as well as older people to the job, and renew themselves regularly. Although longer-serving Councillors may have the advantage of experience of the system, they can also become rigid in their thinking and an actual obstacle to progress: “Councils with a majority of longstanding incumbent members, re-elected over a number of terms, are seen by some to hold communities back as councillors can become averse to change and restrict the adaptation that is necessary to meet evolving needs and opportunities. Some have called these councils ‘stagnant’.” We need to re-evaluate the role, composition and authority of municipal governments in the light of this Report if our aim is to become a vibrant and healthy society.
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