the north grenville
TIMES
Reaching by direct mail 9,000 homes and businesses in North Grenville and Merrickville/Wolford www.ngtimes.ca
Vol. 3, No. 52
The Voice of North Grenville
December 30, 2015
Happy New Year to a wonderful Community
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Friends and neighbours enjoying the Community Christmas Dinner at Leslie Hall on Christmas Day
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How many times have we been able to say, over so many years, that North Grenville is a community of which we can all be proud? Just a few weeks ago, people in the municipality began to talk about putting on a dinner on Christmas Day to bring people together. The idea was to provide a free turkey and ham dinner, with the usual trimmings, desserts and beverages, for whoever wanted to come along. People who would otherwise be alone that day; parents wanting to show their children that there is more to Christmas than presents and their own family; some who might not
be able to afford such a meal at Christmas if left to their own finances; or just residents who like to spend time in fellowship: all were welcomed, all were catered for. Shut-ins could expect a visitor at the door with a cooked Christmas meal. We should never take for granted the kind of response the organisers got to their plan. Overwhelming hardly does it justice. Without any argument, individuals, businesses, service groups, all expressed a willingness, even an eagerness, to be part of the event. In fact, organisers couldn’t cope with the number of volunteers that came forward. On the day, it seemed
that everyone inside and outside Leslie Hall had a welcoming smile, a pleasant word, a bright “Merry Christmas”, for all they met. Even if some were too shy to mix much, they found themselves in the midst of a warm and friendly group, enjoying the company, not alone, not left to feel isolated and apart from their neighbours. Thanks to everyone involved. From the business that cooked the turkeys, to the donors of food and drinks, the servers, table clearers, washers-up, the young and old who stood outside welcoming everyone with a song or a Christmas greeting. Thanks to the organisers,
funders, all of whom demanded anonymity for their good deeds. Thank you to North Grenville, for being the kind of place where something like this can happen with almost no fuss, no spotlight, no problem. At the end of the day, 170 meals had been served, hundreds of North Grenville friends and neighbours had celebrated Christmas Day together, and yet another example of the kind of people we live among had been shown. Whatever the financial and political problems facing this municipality, there will never be a shortage of goodwill, expertise and volunteer commitment to keep the wheels turning.
The North Grenville Times
Auditor General damning on energy issues Hydro One’s transmission and distribution systems have been less reliable in recent years, and their costs are increasing, Ontario Auditor General Bonnie Lysyk says in her 2015 Annual Report. “Hydro One’s mandate is to be a safe, reliable and cost-effective transmitter and distributor of electricity. Instead, Hydro One’s customers have a power system for which reliability appears to be worsening while costs are increasing,” Ms. Lysyk said after the Report was tabled. “Customers are experiencing more frequent power
outages, mostly because assets aren’t being fully maintained, aging equipment isn’t being consistently replaced and trees near power lines aren’t being trimmed often enough to prevent outages.” The Report provides facts and statistics that show how the electricity supply system in Ontario has become less efficient and more costly. The reliability of Hydro One’s transmission system has worsened considerably from 2010 to 2014. Customers have experienced 24% more outages and those outages have lasted 30% longer.
ed outages of other distributors lasted on average 59% less time and occurred on average 30% less frequently. The top reason for distribution system outages from 2010 to 2014 was broken lines caused by fallen trees or tree limbs. Hydro One operates on a 9.5-year vegetationmanagement cycle, while the average cycle used by similar utilities is 3.8 years. Hydro One’s own analysis indicates that the vegetationmanagement work it did in 2014 cost $84 million more than it would have under a four-year vegetation management cycle, which would have resulted in fewer outages caused by trees. After recently spending $660 million to install 1.2 million smart meters on its distribution system, Hydro One uses them predominately for billing purposes. It is not making use of their capability to remotely identify the location of power outages before a customer calls to report it. Such proactive use of smart meters would make dispatching of work crews timelier and more efficient, leading to improved customer service and cost savings. This denigration in Ontario Hydro assets, and the resulting rise in costs to con-
Meanwhile, costs to maintain the transmission system have increased over the same period. The company cited the need to replace the same transmission assets, including transformers in very poor condition and at very high risk of failing, in successive rate applications to the Ontario Energy Board to justify and receive rate increases. Instead, it replaced other assets without informing the OEB, and will seek $148 million again in future to carry out the overdue replacements. There is a risk of more power failures because Hydro One is not replacing transmission assets that have exceeded their planned useful service life. The number of key transmission assets such as transformers, circuit breakers and wood poles in service beyond their normal replacement date ranged from 8% to 26%. Replacing these assets will eventually cost Hydro One an estimated $4.472 billion, or over 600% more than its $621-million capital sustainment expenditure for 2014. Hydro One’s distribution system was consistently one of the least reliable among large Canadian electricity distributors between 2010 and 2014. Compared to Hydro One’s outages, the report-
The Voice of North Grenville sumers, were not inevitable. According to the Auditor General, the government had a process in the Electricity Act and regulations for drafting and approving a long-term technical plan for Ontario’s electricity system, and then didn’t follow that process. “The process called for the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) to draw up a 20-year technical plan, with updates every three years, and for the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) to review and approve the plan,” says Ms. Lysyk. “The process could have offered protection to consumers because the OEB would have been able to review and approve any technical plans over the last decade for cost-effectiveness. Instead of following the legislated process, the Ministry of Energy itself effectively assumed responsibility for electricity planning.” Between 2004 and 2014, the Ministry issued two policy plans and 93 ministerial directives or directions that did not fully consider the state of the electricity market, did not take long-term effects fully into account and sometimes went against the OPA’s advice. Neither the Ministry’s plans nor its directives are subject to OEB approval.
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“Ontario electricity ratepayers have had to pay billions for these decisions,” Ms. Lysyk said. From 2006 to 2014, the electricity portion of the hydro bills of residential and small-business consumers increased by 70%. In particular, the Global Adjustment fees, covering the excess payments to generators over the market price, cost consumers $37 billion during that period, and are projected to cost another $133 billion from 2015 to 2032. Electricity consumers will eventually pay a total of $9.2 billion more for renewables under the Ministry’s guaranteed-price renewable program than they would have paid under the previous procurement program. The guaranteed prices for generators of wind-powered electricity were double the U.S. average price in 2014; the guaranteed prices for generators of solar power were 3½ times higher than the U.S. average price. While Ontario had an oversupply of electricity, the province spent about $2.3 billion on conservation programs to 2014, and is committed to spending another $2.6 billion over the next six years. An even more worrying aspect of the Report is that the Office of the Auditor General will no longer have jurisdiction over Hydro One as of December 4, 2015. The Auditor General has requested that the Ontario Energy Board take the Report into consideration during its regulatory processes.
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A busy kitchen in full operating mode at Leslie Hall for the Christmas Community Dinner at a room full of all walks of life I saw conversations filled with smiles, hugs and hand shakes among strangers and neighbors. I saw our community banding together to celebrate Christmas in the most wonderful ways. Just as God would want us to. And all those who otherwise would be alone or go without enjoying soft traditional Christmas carols, a hot meal and an abundance of love
As I sit here at the end of a wonderful, busy, tiring day, I am so proud of my boys, my family, and the amazing community we live in! Today amongst the bustle of our first Community Christmas Dinner I paused and looked around from the stage (where the kids corner was) and my eyes filled with tears,my heart was feeling like it was about to burst with love and amazement. Looking around
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and fellowship. Just how Christmas should be! So at the end of the day we (I mean our whole community ) managed to serve 112 hot dinners with all the trimmings, 30 delivered meals to those who couldn’t make it and another 25 or so to go meals for those who came but had someone who couldn’t. AMEN!!! I cannot wait to see what next year looks like . That being said THANK
YOU, everyone who served a coffee, cut or baked pies, washed dishes, sat and listened to a fellow neighbour, shook a stranger’s hand and made them feel like family, delivered meals, served the food, swept the floors, and everything in between. Couldn’t have happened without the numerous volunteers!! SO BLESSED. Angie www.ngtimes.ca
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Changes to the Development Charges and Planning Acts by David Shanahan Ontario has passed legislative amendments to the Development Charges Act and Planning Act as part of Smart Growth for Our Communities Act, 2015. The changes are meant to give residents a greater say in planning decisions and open up more opportunities for municipalities to fund services. According to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Bill 73 will give residents a meaningful say in how their communities grow by requiring municipalities to look at opportunities to better involve residents in the planning process for new developments and enhancing a planning tool, the Community Planning Permit System, to encourage innovative ways to plan and address local needs
raised by municipalities and community groups. The tool will be implemented locally in consultation with residents and other stakeholders. The new Act will require municipalities to look at opportunities to better involve residents in the planning process for new developments. Municipalities will need to set out in their official municipal plans how and when the public will be consulted, and explain how public input has affected their planning decisions. This will mean including citizen representatives in municipal planning advisory committees, so council can benefit from their views. The amended Act is also designed to protect and promote green spaces by encouraging more municipalities to put park plans in place, instead of selling off those
spaces for development. In North Grenville, there is serious confusion about how far development charges are covering those expenses which they are meant to cover. The new Act is supposed to make the development charges system more predictable, transparent and accountable by requiring municipalities to follow reporting requirements that reflect best practices, and detail to the community how money from development charges is spent. It also requires municipalities to better integrate how development charges fit with long-term planning, including local asset management plans, and to create clearer reporting requirements for the collection and use of money paid by developers for higher and denser developments, as well as for parkland. Making development charges payable at the time the first building permit is issued for a building, or at the beginning of each stage in the case of multi-phased development, so that developers can be certain of the cost will allow for greater oversight of development revenues, and this, according to the government, will provide more stringent reporting and greater oversight of any funds or municipal charges on new
developments. The Ministry believe that the new Act will make the planning and appeals process more predictable by requiring reviews of new, comprehensive municipal official plans every 10 years, instead of five. This, it is believed, will provide municipalities with more control and stability over their planning documents. Once a municipality establishes a new official plan, it will be frozen and not subject to applications for two years unless permitted by the municipality. Subject to a regulation, a Community Planning Permit System will not be subject to any private applications for five years after its establishment unless permitted by the municipality. This will enable the province and local municipalities to further define what constitutes a minor variance (a small change from a zoning bylaw), allowing more opportunities to resolve disputes locally to make it easier and more efficient to resolve disputes without going before the Ontario Municipal Board. For example, municipalities will be allowed time to engage in alternative dispute resolution. The ability to appeal some items will be removed. In short, the province believes that the new Smart Growth for Our Communities Act will make the development charges system - a system for municipalities to help cover the costs necessary for growth from developers - more predictable, transparent and accountable by creating clearer reporting requirements for capital projects that municipalities are financing through development charges.
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UPDATE UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL Monday, January 11 at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Centre. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Monday, January 18 at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Centre.
HOLIDAY SCHEDULE CHANGES Oxford Mills Waste Transfer Station Holiday Hours Friday, January 1 – CLOSED Saturday, January 2 – 9 am to 4 pm Solid Waste & Recycling Pick-up – There will be no pick-up on Friday, January 1; the pick-up will occur on Saturday, January 2 instead. Municipal Office Holiday Hours Thursday, December 31 8:30 am to 12 noon Friday, January 1 CLOSED North Grenville Public Library Holiday Hours Kemptville Branch Thursday, December 31 Friday, January 1
CLOSED CLOSED
Burritts Rapids Branch Thursday, December 31 CLOSED CITIZEN APPOINTMENTS The Municipality of North Grenville is seeking applications from individuals interested as Appointees to the following Board and Committee during the term of Council (through to November, 2018): • Library Board (Monthly Evening Meetings) – One member required • Canada Day Committee (Meetings as needed) – Minimum of Three members required Candidates must be 18 years old, a Canadian citizen and a resident of North Grenville. Application forms are available at www.northgrenville.ca, by contacting cpominville@ northgrenville.on.ca or at the Administration Office. Please submit applications by Wednesday, January 13th, 2016 to the Administration Office, 285 County Rd. 44 or cpominville@northgrenville.on.ca. Further information is available by contacting the Clerk at cpominville@ northgrenville.on.ca or 613.258.9569 ext.110.
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
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Editorial
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Crisis? What crisis? by David Shanahan
The usual thing to do at this time of year is to review the past twelve months and sum up what it was all about. But that will wait for next week’s issue, when we’ll take a look back at 2015. Right now, we’re in the middle of a crisis most residents of North Grenville may not even be aware of as yet. As of this week, the Municipality no longer has a Treasurer in place. Some time before the Christmas break, the position held by Sheila Kehoe was declared vacant, and all budget meetings have been cancelled “until further notice”. To date, not one word of explanation has been heard from the Municipality. In answer to a query from the Times, the CAO, Brian Carré, said: “Sheila is no longer with the Municipality”. The suddenness with which this has happened, especially considering the timing, clearly implies a serious problem in the office of the Treasurer of North Grenville. This is the time of year when staff and council begin budget deliberations in earnest; holding a series of meetings to discuss next
year’s budget, hearing from community groups and the public on what is needed by them in terms of funding next year. These have all, as I said, been cancelled. Whatever happens next, it will take some time for the municipality to find another Treasurer, and, while there is an experienced staff in place in that Department, the delays this departure will inevitably cause in the process will have a detrimental effect on preparing a municipal budget for 2016. There is, I imagine, no need to remind residents of what last year’s budget delivered: a 6.18% increase in residential taxes, and the revelation that our Reserve Funds were empty as a result of a failure by previous councils to raise taxes in a responsible manner over their terms in office. We were already expecting a minimum of 2% of an increase in this year’s taxes (and every year for the next decade) to restore those Reserve Funds. What was unknown at this point was how much more taxes would have to go up to cover normal operating increases in municipal spending. Let me be clear: noth-
Letter to the Editor
Editor’s Note: When we published this letter in our last issue, we managed to omit a section, leaving the context unclear. We apologise to Ella and are happy to reprint her letter below: Dear Editor: Regarding Books I have read with interest the comments by The Salvation Army about books, in response to Aleta Karstad’s article in The North Grenville Times. As with most things, there are two sides to every story. These are my comments. Thanking someone for bringing matter to your atten-
tion. AGAIN? Have we not had this dance once before??? About a year and a half or so ago, when it was brought to your attention that too many good books in excellent condition were discarded in the recycle bin: Christian books, novels women love to read, children’s books ( ‘Diary of a Whimpy Kid’?). Some discussion resulted and some changes were made. They didn’t last long. Mistaking recycling bin for book donations. Few donors have dropped them in the wrong place. Yes, many books that are mouldy, musty, torn need to be recycled. The books placed in the recycle
ing has been said to explain Sheila Kehoe’s very sudden departure. It may be a personal issue, without any unpleasant implications. It is very unfair to Ms. Kehoe that the municipality has not even tried to explain the reasons for her departure, leaving everyone to speculate. That is neither fair nor profitable. The responsibility lies with the senior management to clarify the situation as quickly as possible. Given the various legal restrictions governing personnel matters, there may not be very much anyone can say publicly about what has happened, but something, at least, should be said. There is lack of transparency in the municipal government that is at odds with promises made by all candidates at the last election. Decisions, for example, about the future of the College have been taken without effective consultation with members of the community who have expertise and experience, not to mention good ideas. Although it is good news that the French Catholic School Board has agreed to a short-term lease of buildings at the College, there is much to wonder at in that development also. The Board had only re-
cently set up a hoarding at the corner of CR 43 and Somerville, stating that their new school would be built there. Now, suddenly, they have agreed to establish it at the College, at least for a year or so. Was that a recent decision? Did the municipality only find the new tenant in the past few weeks? If so, it was fortunate for them that they did so, or there might not have been a happy announcement to make before Christmas. The Board’s move to the campus is great in the medium term, perhaps, but will their temporary location mean that more long-term, or suitable, tenants will not be able to move there? While negotiations have to be conducted with some discretion, it would be good to know what kind of response the municipality has received from prospective tenants. We have been given numbers and assurances, but no details. Sadly, this is only too typical of the lack of communication and transparency that has characterised municipal affairs in North Grenville for at least a decade. The public has been kept out of any significant role in shaping and promoting policies which affect us
all. I am personally tired of hearing staff members at high levels in the municipality treat the public, especially the voluntary sector, with enormous condescension and arrogance, dismissing them as somehow incapable of playing a responsible and meaningful role in their own community’s future. It is time to bring back the committee system here. We should have proper Committees for Finance, Rural Affairs, Recreation & Culture, and whatever other area needs public input. When committees were abolished in favour of what is known as the Committee of the Whole, residents lost any opportunity to play a role in their own future development, or the direction their community was taking. That role was taken on almost entirely by council and staff, and the effect has not been all that impressive. This is a new year we face. It demands a new approach, and the sudden loss of the Treasurer indicates, at the very least, that our financial situation, which we already knew to be unhealthy, may be worse than we suspected. It is high time that we, as taxpayers, the people who fund the salaries of munici-
bins are put there by the sorters. It would seem very few books actually make it to the bookshelves in the store as too many are judged ‘improper’. I find it interesting that other Salvation Army Thrift stores do not censor their books to the same extent. At the Kemptville store, when the paper bins are full, box after box of books go into the dumpster headed to the landfill. The issue of improperly placed donations by donors is not the problem at The Salvation Army Store. The problem is too many books are discarded as improper. The solution is to have sorters who know a good book when they see it. The ‘Staff’ submission to
the Kemptville Advance did little to address Ms Karstad’s comments. All the bits regarding supporting literacy do nothing to keep the books out of the recycle bins. The language used is nothing more than politically-correct bafflegab-gobble-de-gook. By definition: a bunch of words that say nothing. Throw in a few untruths. I know of which I speak. I was a volunteer at the Kemptville Thrift store for almost 10 years. Ella Leson
to pay municipal taxes, so much for logical thinking! The article talks about a basic income guarantee. This idea was proposed early in the last century by a movement called Social Credit. Then as now it was ‘proven’ to be unworkable. It was never put to the test, there was never any objective research, only a grand assumption that it cannot work. Another idea of Social Credit was the elimination of interest and subsequently the prevention of the formation of all debt. This too was rejected by the powers that be. All levels of government are controlled and do the bidding of those who create and issue money for their benefit. A guaranteed annual income would be seen to add to the national debt, while expenditures on war, waste, and its subsequent effects of environmental deterioration, crime, ill health, poverty, and a host of other negative realities is not considered to add to the debt. Unfortunately the Health Unit’s support for
Dear Editor: In this article [Health Unity, December 16 issue] we are informed that food costs have risen 20% since 2010. Add to this the fact that taxes and other costs have and continue to increase while pay checks do not keep pace, it is no wonder why people are falling increasingly farther behind. While in the wisdom of our North Grenville council we do not have the right to food, we definitely have the duty ISSN 2291-0301
The North Grenville Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc. Marketing Gord J. Logan gord@ngtimes.ca 613-258-6402 Dec. 30, 2015
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pal councillors and staff, are informed about what is being done, consulted on what we want to be done, and given a greater say in municipal affairs. To continue as we have been doing for more than ten years will only perpetuate the Bubble Effect which has afflicted successive councils and staff: the delusion that only they know what’s best for us, how best to spend our taxes, and where North Grenville should be heading. We live here; we pay their salaries. If they come out with even more bad financial news, even more tax rises, more unexpected developments we pay them to expect, then it is time for more than a change in personnel: it is time for a change in the whole system. this investigation is doomed to failure since the present non-human system which has been in force for at least the last five thousand years is dedicated to the enslavement of the masses. When most of the world’s countries can never get out of debt, the solution of the Global Banking Cartel is to throw more debt money at the problem. That’s like trying to put out fire with gasoline. Where does all this money for debt come from if there is less of it to go around? It is an invention that comes from Nothing. When you work for your pay, what do you get for the value you give? You receive an evidence of debt. If the masses continue in this semi-comatose state, the consequences are not hard to imagine. The impoverishment of the many for the benefit of the non productive few. Is this what we want? V.Carini
Staff Reporter Beth Nicol beth@ngtimes.ca 613-258-0033 Staff Reporter Hilary Thomson hilary@ngtimes.ca
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The line-up for the next Kemptville Live Music Festival has another name added this week, as the classic combination that is Tom Lavin and the Powder Blues Band are set to play on the Festival Saturday. For over three decades, Powder Blues has been Canada’s leading blues band. The sound is a mix of swing, blues, jazz, rock & roll and r&b, with an appeal so wide that people from seven to seventy often swing side by side at a Powder Blues concert. Over the years the band has toured
non-stop through Canada, the United States and overseas, spreading a feel-good groove that makes people dance and shout. Band highlights include winning Canada’s Juno, headlining the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, winning the Blues Foundation Award in Memphis, Tennessee and touring the US and Europe with legends like Willie Dixon, John Lee Hooker, B.B. King, James Brown, Albert Collins, James Cotton and Stevie Ray Vaughn. Leader, Tom Lavin has
of the Year’, a Juno award for ‘Best New Band’ and the American W.C. Handy award. He has over a dozen gold, and platinum records for Powder Blues, Prism, April Wine, Long John Baldry, Amos Garrett, and many others. His Blue Wave studio has gold records for Powder Blues and numerous other artists.
written many of the band’s best-known songs including ‘Doin’ It Right’ [‘On the Wrong Side of Town’] and ‘Boppin With the Blues’. Born in Chicago, where he watched and worked with local bands and blues legends, Tom moved to Vancouver, gigging nightly in the downtown nightclub scene. This led to work as a studio musician, song writer, band leader, record producer and film composer. Tom has won BCMIA awards for ‘Guitarist, Singer, Songwriter and Producer
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Greetings North Gremlins. This is the time of year when many lists are compiled. Mine is inspired by Deron Johnston’s plea for more positive and less negative. Here is my Most-Positive List. “13 Things in 2015 That Made Us Proud to be Cana-
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Prices effective: Friday, January 1 to Thursday, January 7, 2016 “We reserve the right to limit quantities to reasonable family requirements”
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Clark Code Small Engines and Husqvarna Dealer The shop at Clark Code Small Engines is a busy spot. Snow removal products of varying sizes and specifications are set out in an orderly fashion; safety gear and accessories are on display. Machines waiting for repair are tagged and lined up neatly. It is organized, well stocked and functional. It is also reflective of how owner and operator, Clark Code, conducts his business. He specializes in small engine repair and he is an independent Husqvarna dealer authorized to sell and to serice their products. Husqvarna is the world’s largest producer of outdoor power products, carrying lines to meet the requirements of the home owner, the land owner and the professional. Each is suitable for a particular life style. Clark takes the time to match the tool to the task to ensure customer satisfaction. It is a part of the values added approach that differentiates his business from the big box stores. Clark offers technical support as well as servicing what he sells. Store to door delivery is available if it is required. Clark has been working in the Small Engine Repair business since 1986. He makes a point of knowing his product line, his customers and their needs. As a result, Clark’s business has experienced steady growth. If you are considering the purchase of snow removal machinery, take a drive down Sanderson Road to chat with Clark. A full line of chainsaws and chainsaw accessories are also available. For additional information about Husqvarna products or to inquire about a repair, Clark Code can be contacted at: 613-258-3829. The shop is open from Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm and Saturday from 8:00 am until noon. Clark Code Small Engines is located at 905 Sanderson Road, Oxford Mills.
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Reaching by direct mail 9,000 homes and businesses in Merrickville/Wolford and North Grenville
the Merrickville-Wolford Vol. 1, No.8
TIMES The Voice of Merrickville/Wolford
Wayne Cavanaugh turns off the microphone
December 30, 2015
Bottle drive to support Merrickville Public School play structure by Beth Nicol The post-Christmas cleanup is on. To help you get rid of those accumulated wine, liquor and beer bottles, the Merrickville Public School Playground Redevelopment Committee is holding a bottle drive on Saturday January 9, 2016 between 9 am. and 1 pm. Your boxed or bagged bottles can be left at curbside for pick up on the streets of Merrickville proper between the hours of 9 – 11 am. Alternately, they can be left in the yard of Merrickville Public School from until 1 pm. The Parent Council of Merrickville Public School is working to replace the school’s 22-year-old play structure. The subcommittee has been raising funds through its, “Play for Everyone” campaign for the past year. It is working with the company, “Playground Planners,” to provide the children with an ADA compliant structure which supports all age groups (2 ½ years – 12 years). The students have already contributed their ideas; these will be considered in the final design. The funding for this major undertaking will be multi-sourced. The group is presently checking into grants which may be available to assist them with this venture. The Chair of the Playground Redevelopment Committee is Denise Christopher. For more information or if you can contribute in some way, she can be reached at: Denise.Christopher@cma.ca
“The Village Chef” celebrates Season 6 night of fun and frolic while enjoying an excellent meal. The Sponsors benefit from the positive publicity. The Charities also benefit from publicity in addition to the cheque presented at the evening’s end. The chef selects the charity for the evening and receives 20 tickets to sell to friends and family, an opportunity for an instant party. Although the restaurant does not make a huge profit from the evening, it does draw in new customers over the five evenings and it establishes good will in the community at large. January’s line up features a Roaring Twenties theme on the 6th with MerrickvilleWolford Mayor, David Nash and Montague Reeve, Bill Dobson, the featured chefs. Their selected charity is the
by Beth Nicol
CJET Radio’s Wayne Cavanaugh has retired after 46 years of broadcasting everything from classical music to the news, with a strong major in country music along the way. Christmas Eve was Wayne’s final show at the Smith Falls-based station, and listeners anf friends all across the region will miss his unique sound and personality. Wayne was a local boy made good, a graduate of Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute, he ended up working as a janitor at CKWS in Kingston, before being thrown into the deep end one night when the regular DJ failed to appear for a classical music program. The rest, as they say... After stints on stations in Ottawa, Kingston and even Halifax, Wayne went home to Smiths Falls in 1995 and spent the next twenty years becoming part of the everyday life of the people of eastern Ontario. He has met some of the greats in the music world, covered agricultural issues
and childrens programming, playing a mouse! During his decade with the revamped JACK FM, Wayne has kept himself busy in the community, attending local events, promoting the Smiths Falls Hospital Foundation, and doing his radio show every week day morning from 5.30 to 9 am. But that all wound up last week, as a long and distinguished career as a popular and well-loved personality bade farewell to the airwaves. Before he left, though, Wayne threw a retirement party, with proceeds going to the hospital foundation. In 2007, the foundation awarded him for his voluntary work on their behalf, and the Smiths Falls & District Chamber of Commerce presented him with the Community Appreciation Award in 2012. In his retirement, Wayne can look back on a full and fun career, but it is highly unlikely that we’ve heard the last of Wayne Cavanaugh.
It began with a brainstorming session; a way of encouraging customers to his recently acquired business, The Mainstreet Restaurant and Patio, during the cold winter months. The criteria was straight forward: it had to draw new clientele; it had to be unique; it had to be purposeful. The end result was The Village Chef series. Owner and operator of the restaurant, Mike Neelin, summarizes the annual event as a venture where everyone involves wins. The Village Chef series is a celebration of cuisine and community. Each event features a celebrity/local personality who takes over the kitchen for an evening. Advanced planning and preparation takes time and effort but there are perks. For each event, the Mainstreet Restaurant and a local business sponsor each contribute $100 to a charity of the Chef’s choosing. $5 from each ticket sold is donated as well. The theme for the evening is determined by the chef as well. Everyone does win. The customers participate in a
Friends of the Andrewsville Bridge and they are sponsored by Mirick’s Landing. On the 20th, Terri and Margo will team up to present a Fifties Diner night; The Merrickville Fire Department is their selected charity. The sponsor for the evening is BCJP Consulting. On February 3rd Chantal Roulston will call the shots in the kitchen. The Food Cupboard is the charity she has selected and Wick Witch is the evening’s sponsor. Burlesque will be the theme for the evening. Get out your Victorian finery for the 17th and join Anne Barr, chef for the night. She has selected the Beth Donovan Hospice for her charity and Nana B’s is her sponsor. Former Merrickville-Wolford Mayor Doug Struthers
will be the man in the kitchen on the final evening in the series on March 2nd. The evening will be a nod to the Oscars. RE/MAX Alliance LTD is the sponsor for the night. The charity of choice is the Breathe Dance Company. The season Pass ($150) option is completely sold out. Tickets for individual evenings can be purchased in advance at the restaurant for $35. The number of tickets available is limited and every season so far has been a sell out. If you are interested, stop by and get your ticket as soon as you can. The Mainstreet Restaurant is located at 112 Main Street West in Merrickville. You can contact them at 613269-7976.
s e c i r P g t n s i e B Fram Canal Gallery & Frame Shop for 230 St Lawrence Street Merrickville
Dec. 30, 2015
613-701-0462 8
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The North Grenville Times
Gord Brown M.P. reviews the year
Burritts Rapids community wants a say in Parks Canada Canal Project by Inge Vangemeren Parks Canada has a budget of $2.6 million dollars for “Burrit’s Rapids Earth Dam Rehabilitation”, as part of a much larger infrastructure project announced on June 1 2015. The public announcement described the project as follows: “Located along the Rideau River, the Burritt’s Rapids Earth Dam serves as a water control structure. This project will include assessment of the earth dams located at the site and their rehabilitation. The intent of the project is to improve the condition of the dams while maintaining their use as a walking trail for the community. This project will ensure the long term viability and engineering function of the earth dams.” Those living near the “earth dam” - and many other users - recognize it as a wonderful woodland trail along the edge of the canal, running almost the entire length of the island. This may change. The Burritt’s Rapids Community Association (BRCA) has come to understand the scope of work will very likely include a substantial amount of tree removal, similar to the work that has already been completed at Poonamalie and Edmunds Locks. Many, including UNESCO, have recognised the unique and
OPP Report
Theft at Construction Site Grenville County Ontario Provincial Police would once again like to remind the public to call immediately any time they observe suspicious activity in their community with special attention to construction sites during nonworking hours. During midnight and 8 am on December 19, a new subdivision under construction in Pelton’s Corners, North Grenville was targeted. Culprit(s) broke into a locked container and stole a Honda lawnmower and a Noma snow blower. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information on the above occurrence is asked to call Grenville County O.P.P. Communication Centre at 1-888-310-1122, Dec 30, 2015
historic significance of the Canal system, including the original hand-dug berm that formed the dam. This too may change. During the 2015 Annual General Meeting for the BRCA, representatives from Parks Canada gave an initial presentation on this project and a number of issues were raised, to which Parks Canada promised to respond. The Community’s concerns were that, while safety is of utmost importance, there are other issues that needed to be included in an assessment of the dam, including the recognised unique heritage of the canal, the historical, cultural and other needs of the community living on the island and the final aesthetics. It was felt that consultation with the community could not be limited to allowing us simply to ‘comment’ on the decisions made by Parks Canada - but that, in particular, the community had to have an opportunity to help shape the scope of the work and the execution of the plan. In a continuation of this dialogue, the Burritt’s Rapids Community Association will be hosting a General Meeting on Tuesday, January 5, starting at 4:30 pm, at the Community Hall. Darryl Whitehead, an External Relations Manager for the Parks Canada “Dam Rehabilitation” project team, would like to make a
brief presentation regarding answers to the questions already raised by residents at the November AGM for the BRCA, and to field additional questions. Shaun McIntosh, one of PC’s Environmental Assessment Officers, will discuss the nature of his work, the role he plays in projects generally, and the work he has already done in the Burritts area. He is the individual that flagged the Butternut trees that are in this location. He will talk about why these trees have been flagged and the range of measures that PC would propose should any work be required in the area. No doubt many residents encountered the core drilling rig that was used to pull samples along the earthen dam early in December. The BR Community Association invites all residents of North Grenville and surrounding area to the meeting to learn first-hand of the project and to have any questions you might have answered. If you are unable to attend but have specific questions or concerns, please forward them to Inge, Chair of the BRCA (inge.vangemeren@ gmail.com) and/or directly to Darryl Whitehead, External Relations Manager, Ontario Waterways Unit (darryl. whitehead@pc.gc.ca).
the Kemptville Detachment at 613-258-3441 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-(TIPS) 8477 or submit your tip online at www.tipsubmit.com. Crime Stoppers does not want your name, you don’t go to court, and you could earn cash reward.
Service Your Sled – Get your sled professionally serviced before your first ride and keep it well maintained to avoid breakdowns that can spoil your ride or leave you stranded. Inspect Your Gear & Equipment - Make sure that everything still fits and works properly, inspect it regularly and always check that nothing is missing before you head out on every ride. Stay Connected - GPS, cell phones, satellite phones and personal trackers can be very useful in avoiding or dealing with emergency situations so always keep them charged and ready. Carry a Repair Kit - Ensure that you have either the sled manufacturer’s tool kit or one of your own on board, including owner’s manual, spare belt and spark plugs, and a good tow rope. Prepare for First Aid – Carry a pre-assembled first aid kit, which can be found at outdoor stores or online, and consider taking a first aid course. Get a Survival Kit – Pre-assembled survival kits are also available at outdoors stores
How to enjoy safe snowmobiling this season The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) are reminding snowmobilers to take personal responsibility for their own safety and well-being when winter arrives. Safe snowmobiling starts with preparing your sled, gear and equipment before your first ride and maintaining these throughout the season. Good advanced preparations include getting properly trained and knowing the law. Think you have what it takes to be a safe snowmobiler? How many of these important steps do you take before and during your ride?
The Voice of North Grenville
This past year has been a good news year for LeedsGrenville, says Member of Parliament Gord Brown. Citing infrastructure funding and economic growth, the recently re-elected MP says the counties are poised for continuing improvement. From the federal perspective there were many positive announcements over the course of the year. “Our government had reached a balanced budget as we promised, federal taxes were at their lowest in 50 years, and more money was available for larger infrastructure projects,” he explains. The biggest announcements for the counties in infrastructure were the dollars committed to rejuvenating national parks and heritage sites. “The Rideau Canal and Thousand Islands National Park represented a large amount of the new infrastructure money in the area, with $39.4 million and $7.7 million respectively committed,” says Gord. The Battle of the Windmill site,
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and online, and consider taking a winter survival course to better prepare you for an unexpected day or night in the cold. Use the Buddy System Snowmobiling is safer and more fun with riding companions. Avoid riding alone by arranging for friends and family to join you on the trails. Refresh Safety Tips– As experienced as you may be, it is always wise to renew your familiarity with your sled’s safety manual and share the Ride Smart messaging on the OFSC website. The OPP is committed to saving lives on Ontario’s highways, trails and waterways through the reduction of preventable injury and death. Initiatives are developed and delivered through the Provincial Traffic Safety Program. The OFSC is committed to proactive leadership in promoting safe, responsible riding, on and off Ontario snowmobile trails, by building safer snowmobiling knowledge, attitudes and behaviours through rider education, safety legislation development and enforcement.
Fort Henry and Bellevue House are also receiving extensive facelifts under the federal program announced by former Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Beyond these major announcements there was money committed for projects under the Canada 150 plan including the armouries in Brockville and Kemptville and the railway tunnel in Brockville to name a few. “This type of infrastructure investment helps organizations and municipalities prepare for the future.” Municipalities throughout the riding also benefitted from other federal development money and the Eastern Ontario Development Program, he notes. Internationally, Canada continued its commitment to democratic leadership in many ways but especially by joining with our allies in the fight against ISIL. “Our bombing missions are having a positive effect in reducing the capabilities of ISIL to continue their advance,” he comments. There were many positives for Canada and the riding throughout the year, he says. “I am proud and honoured to be the first Member of Parliament to serve the new riding of Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes following the election.” He was also humbled to be chosen to serve as
Official Opposition Whip. “It is an honour as well to be recognized by my peers as someone who can get the job done for the party on Parliament Hill,” he says. “I am pleased to help play this important role while our party plans for a leadership search.” Gord explains that the Opposition has a job to do in holding the government to account while it also conducts its leadership search. “Part of my job is helping to keep everyone focused on the immediate tasks while we are in this longer-term process,” according to Gord. He believes holding the government accountable will be a full-time job. “We have already seen them change and adjust their promises as the reality of governing presents itself and these are just the early days of their mandate. We are committed to protecting the taxpayers of Canada and holding the government accountable for their decisions.” Meanwhile, he is working hard on the priorities of the counties. “We were able to get right to work after the election to follow-up on many issues of concern to the municipalities and residents,” he says. “My door continues to be open and I will continue to work hard for all residents of the riding.”
RIDE program still in progress until January The OPP Festive RIDE campaign began November 23rd and continues until January 2nd 2016. With the holiday season in full swing officers are out in full force trying to reduce impaired driving everywhere. This past week members of the Grenville County OPP, Prescott Detachment conducted a total of 21 different RIDE checks at various locations in and around the South Grenville area. The OPP encourage everyone to have a plan to get home before they get behind the wheel this holiday season and are encouraging individuals to report impaired driving when they see someone getting behind the wheel after drinking.
“Survive the Holidays” draw results The KDMHA Panthers Novice B2 team held a ‘Survive the Holidays’ Gift Basket raffle. The draw was held on Monday, December 21, 2015 at the NG Municipal Complex. All prizes were donated by parents of kids on the team. 1000 tickets were printed & sold giving the team a profit of $1000. The winner of Basket #1 was Dave Peebles, the winner of Basket #2 was Julie MacGillivray. Congratulations Winners! Tanya J Seabrook, Team Manager
Building a Sustainable North Grenville
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The North Grenville Times
Drinking water in NG passes inspection
CROSSWORD
ACROSS 1. Trades 6. Puts down 10. Hairdo 14. Lengthways 15. Baking appliance 16. Component of urine 17. Bog hemp 18. Quash 19. Fit snugly into 20. Showman 22. Strikes 23. A sizeable hole 24. Picture 26. Orchards 30. Transparent 32. Work hard 33. Scaremongers 37. Sweeping story
38. Skedaddles 39. Ardor 40. Set up 42. Latin name for our planet 43. Tiny balls strung together 44. Fervent 45. A thin porridge 47. Actress Lupino 48. Sense 49. Overplaying 56. Ancient Peruvian 57. It comes from cows 58. Forbidden 59. Terror 60. Being 61. Any compound of oxygen 62. Catch a glimpse of 63. Accomplishment 64. Ascends
DOWN 1. Indian dress 2. Test 3. Not stiff 4. Den 5. Roomette 6. A green fabric mixture 7. Affirm 8. Abominable Snowman 9. Spies 10. Sanctioned 11. Apple or orange 12. Odd-numbered page 13. Trees of the genus Quercus 21. Female sib 25. An unskilled actor 26. Delight 27. Whacks 28. Death notice 29. Lexicon 30. Elegance 31. Strip of wood 33. Corrosive 34. Arid 35. Mountain pool 36. Thin strip 38. Raced on skis 41. Spelling contest 42. Farm vehicle 44. American Dental Association 45. Segments of DNA 46. Summary 47. Annoyed 48. A small high-pitched flute 50. Workbench attachment 51. If not 52. Cab 53. Nile bird 54. Connecting point 55. "Comes and ____"
Solutions to last week’s Sudoku
SUDOKU Easy
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The Voice of North Grenville
Ontario’s drinking water remains among the best protected in the world, according to the 2014-15 Chief Drinking Water Inspector’s Annual Report. The report includes a summary of information and performance results for municipal drinking water systems and notes that, in 2014-2015, 99.8% of more than 533,000 test results from municipal residential drinking water systems met Ontario’s rigorous, health-based drinking water standards. These municipal residential drinking water systems serve more than 80% of Ontario’s population. In 2014-2015, all 662 municipal residential drinking water systems were inspected by the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change in Ontario. 99.4% of municipal residential drinking water systems received an inspection rating greater than 80%. Inspection ratings show how well the systems are operating and meeting Ontario’s strict regulations. Drinking water in Kemptville is also regularly tested to ensure it meets minimal provincial standards, and the Municipality has provided information for the public on the water system and how it operates. Approximately 3,400 people in Kemptville are supplied with drinking water provided by the Municipality of North Grenville. There are three municipal wells constructed between 1948 and 1979. In 2012, the provincial government
provided funding to the municipality to undertake a project to better protect the wells. This involved extending the well casings so that water is drawn exclusively from a deeper, less vulnerable aquifer. The municipal wells draw groundwater from the Nepean Sandstone Aquifer which is well-known for supplying a good volume of quality drinking water. Each well is located inside a pump house where chlorine is added to disinfect the water. Treated water is then pumped into the distribution system. Each pump house also has an onsite reservoir for storage of water for periods of peak demand. The North Grenville drinking water system operators must adhere to the strict requirements for the treatment, testing and distribution of drinking water specified in the Safe Drinking Water Act. The water is consistently in compliance with Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards. Ontario’s Clean Water Act was created specifically to protect drinking water at the source rather than simply relying on water treatment to deliver safe, clean water. Because of work completed under the Clean Water Act, Kemptville now has a mapped Wellhead Protection Area (WHPA) that is protected through policies in the Mississippi-Rideau Source Protection Plan. The Source Protection Plan prohibits the future establishment of incompatible land uses such as
Building a Sustainable North Grenville
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Dec. 30, 2015
landfills near drinking water sources and requires governments to ensure that services such as sewers and winter road maintenance do not contaminate drinking water sources. It also ensures that safeguards are in place to reduce the risk of activities such as fuel storage and chemical use, and encourages all residents and businesses in Wellhead Protection Areas to take voluntary action to protect the drinking water source.
Tips for protecting the groundwater:
1. Conserve water. Using less water reduces the burden on the aquifer. Also, too little water in a source can mean contaminants are more concentrated and therefore may be above acceptable levels. 2. Properly handle and dispose of hazardous substances. Everything from paints to pharmaceuticals can impact groundwater if not handled and disposed of safely. 3. Use environmentally friendly products for cleaning and personal care. Remember that what you use in your house goes down your drain and back into the environment. 4. Prevent contaminated runoff that may soak into the ground. You can do this by reducing or eliminating your use of fertilizers and sidewalk salt, not over-watering your lawn, cleaning up pet waste and by taking your car to a commercial car wash. 5. Maintain your vehicles and take care when handling fuel. Proper vehicle maintenance prevents oil and other fluid leaks. One litre of gas or oil can contaminate a million litres of water!
Solution to last week’s Crossword
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The Voice of North Grenville
NG Fire Service Annual Awards for 2015
Dan Gordon is honoured for 40 years of service. l to r.: Randy Urslak, Frank Onasanya, Brian Carre, Dan, Barb Tobin, David Gordon and Paul Hutt On Saturday Dec.19, 2015, the North Grenville Fire Service held their Annual Awards and Appreciation Banquet at the Municipal Centre. The evening is to recognize departmental and personal accomplishments achieved throughout the year, as well, to recognize and applaud the services of our firefighters. The evening
was extra special with four members receiving “Long Service” Awards. Additional Years of Service Bars were added to Firefighter Gordon’s existing medals and a 40 Year Long Service Designation Certificate were to Firefighter Dan Gordon. The Provincial Fire Service Long Service Medal and a 25
Year Designation Certificate were issued to Firefighter Kerry Harris; and the Federal Fire Service Exemplary Service Medal and a 20 Year Designation Certificate were issued to Captain Hal Thompson. Fire Chief Paul Hutt commented on the amazing record of these three men: “Remarkable to think
that these three individuals have a total of 85 years of combined service with the fire service and they continue to devote themselves to the Community of North Grenville” . The firefighter of the year award is an award that is given to someone in the service that goes beyond the call of duty. The firefighter of the year is chosen by Chief and Deputy Chief based on their observation throughout the year. Leadership, initiative, innovation, pride and ownership, service excellence are only a few skills and abilities observed from this member in 2015, making him an easy choice for firefighter of the year in 2015. Training Officer Peter Kirby was the recipient of the Firefighter of the Year Award.
Peter Kirby is presented with his award as Firefighter of the Year by Deputy Chief Randy Urslak and Chief Paul Hutt
January 2016 Employment Readiness Workshops
A Big Christmas Party Mapping the journey to successful employment North Grenville Employment Resource Centre 125 Prescott St Kemptville Call to register: (613) 258-6576 (800) 214-7066
Events
January 5
Information Session, 10:00—11:30 PRIME! Information Session, 2:00—3:00
January 6
Resumes and Cover Letters, 1:00—2:30
January 7
CSE Outreach at TR Leger Kemptville, 9:00—11:00
January 8
Information and Decision Making, 1:00—2:30
January 11
New PRIME! Group start—Good Luck!!
January 12
Information and Decision Making 10:00—11:30
January 13
Resume Rescue Clinic, 10:00—2:00
January 14
Personality Dimensions, 9:00—12:00 Job Search Strategies, 1:00—2:30
January 15
Career Dimensions, 9:00—12:30 Information and Decision Making, 1:00—2:30
January 19
Information Session, 10:00—11:30 Information Session, 1:00—2:00
January 20
CSE Outreach in Merrickville (Merrickville Health Community Centre), 9:00—12:00 Smart Serve, 9:00—1:00 ($30.00 + HST) Resume and Cover Letters, 1:30—3:30
Next Month’s Highlights
January 21
Are you between the age of 15 and 30? Out of school and work? Interested in gaining work experience and getting paid?
CSE Outreach at TR Leger Kemptville, 9:00—11:00 Information Session, 1:00—2:00 CSE Days! All day coffee and snacks!
January 22
Career Dimensions, 9:00—12:30 Information and Decision Making, 1:00—2:30
January 26
Information and Decision Making 10:00—11:30
January 27
Service Canada Outreach 9:00—3:00 (Closed 12—1 for Lunch)
Follow CSE on: CSE is OPEN from 9:00—12:00 on Saturday January 30th !!!
With the help of the community, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville held their annual Christmas Party at Geronimo’s Coffee House again this year! A special thank you to Geronimo’s Coffee House for donating their wonderful space, to Tallman Truck Centre for helping make the party possible, and to the members of the community for providing Santa with some special gifts through TD Bank Kemptville’s Giving Tree. Santa dropped in to hand out the donated gifts and to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. We can’t thank our community enough for helping generate so many smiles at this special time of year!
Date
Come to one of our COMPASS info sessions to learn more—Program starts in February! Employment Ontario programs are funded in part by the Government of Canada. Les programmes Emploi Ontario sont financés en partie par le gouvernement du Canada.
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Check out our online job board at: www.cseconsulting.com
Employment Ontario programs are funded in part by the Government of Canada. Les programmes Emploi Ontario sont financés en partie par le January 28 du Canada. Interview Types, Tips and Techniques, 10:00—11:30 gouvernement
January 29
WHMIS, 9:00—12:00 ($30.00 + HST) Information and Decision Making, 1:00—2:30
Check out our online job board at: www.cseconsulting.com
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The North Grenville Times
The Voice of North Grenville
‘It’s that time of year’ by Peter Johnston Greetings North Gremlins. This is the time of year when many lists are compiled. Mine is inspired by Deron Johnston’s plea for more positive and less negative. Here is my MostPositive List. “13 Things in 2015 That Made Us Proud to be Canadian” When a blizzard left truckers stranded in Revelstoke, B.C., for two days, residents brought them food. Smiley, a blind golden retriever, in Stouffville, was saved from a life of neglect and was trained to be a certified therapy dog. A Sobey’s clerk spotted an elderly woman on an icy sidewalk and walked her home (he has been making sure she gets home safely each day since). When Eastern Canada was hit by a severe snowstorm, neighbours left out ‘care packages’ for each other. In memory of an elderly gentleman who always bought coffee for the next person in line, thousands of Ontarians followed suit to honour and extend the
man’s generosity. And in another coffee story, a man in Edmonton left $500 to pay for the coffee that would be ordered that day at a Tim’s outlet. That must have woken up a lot to paying it forward. A group of volunteers spent over six hours keeping a beached baby Orca cooled down and alive until the tide came back in. The entire town of St. George, Ontario decided to move Christmas to midOctober when they heard that a 7 year old cancer patient would not last until December. A veteran was asked by a young girl, at a school Remembrance Day Ceremony, if he would do it all over again, he responded, ‘Yes, for you.’ A group of Vancouver animal lovers rescued 120 dogs from a high-kill centre in California and put them up for adoption. Bruce Almighty, a Saskatchewan cat that had been neglected and tortured, needed extensive medical help, so people chipped in to save him. Bruce Almighty, indeed. Kids in Halifax hung mitts, scarves and jackets on
INCHESTER PRINT & STATIONERY
telephone poles for homeless and needy children, with winter approaching. And in the past two months, Canadians have opened their wallets, their homes, their hearts and their borders to refugee families fleeing the horrors of war. All countries and their inhabitants believe that they have the capacity for greatness. Canadians, in small gestures in coffee shops and in large gestures at their borders, are demonstrating their ‘greatness’ with actions. As we pass from 2015 into 2016, let each of us add our own ‘Gesture of Greatness’ to Canada’s return to the world stage as a country of compassionate people. As this list has shown, it doesn’t take much, nor does it cost a great deal; but the benefits are significant - to those receiving as well as though giving. It’s a belief/practice that is at the heart of many of the world’s major religions. It should be a uniting quality, in this country that has so many nationalities woven into its fabric. Happy New Year Canada. Let’s continue to show the world how great we are and how great we can be.
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WINCHESTER PRINT & STATIONERY
Dec. 30, 2015
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