February 10, 2016 issue 6

the north grenville

TIMES

Reaching by direct mail 9,000 homes and businesses in North Grenville and Merrickville/Wolford www.ngtimes.ca

Vol. 4, No. 6

The Voice of North Grenville

February 10, 2016

North Grenville Chamber of Commerce luncheon a success

The North Grenville Times is Locally Owned and Operated

Photo by Mike & Ness

by Hilary Thomson Over 100 people filled the main hall of the North Grenville Municipal Centre on Monday to eat, connect and learn about networking.

The luncheon and networking event was organized by the North Grenville Chamber of Commerce to bring its members together and promote business exchange within the community. The food for the event followed the local business theme

Annual Sweetheart Brunch in honour of Sheila and Harry Pratt

Page 7

with appetizers from The Crusty Baker, mains from The Branch Restaurant and dessert from Grahame’s Bakery.

The highlight of the luncheon (besides the delicious food) was keynote speaker Michael J. Hughes. Dubbed “The Networking Guru” by the Ottawa Citizen in 2001, Michael is a specialist in using networking as a business strategy and has grown his business from an idea to a six-figure consulting practice using networking as his sole

marketing vehicle.

Michael was an engaging speaker and his presentation was full of personal stories, humour and even a little audience participation. He had everyone up and introducing themselves to people they hadn’t met before. By the end of the presentation, everyone had made at least two new connections. “It’s not called net-eating or netsitting,” he said. “It’s called net-working.”

Overall the event was

very successful. Everyone left satisfied from a good meal, with food for thought about how to step up their networking game and more than one new business card in their pocket. The North Grenville Chamber of Commerce has quite a few more events coming up in the coming months, so be sure to check their Facebook page for updates.

If you would like to become a member of the Chamber, visit their website at www. northgrenvillechamber.com.

For the love of art

Discover a trove of historic homes Page 10

Concert in support of R.I.N.G. Page 2

Page 16

Merrickville/ Wolford Times Page 10

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

2nd Annual Share the Love Kemptville Your child is invited to submit a creative piece to the Share the Love exhibit about poverty and insecure housing.

Share the Love is a campaign to raise awareness about insecure housing and rural poverty. We hold it in the month of February because of Valentines and Family Day. Despite the warmth of these festivities, many local people are ‘out in the cold’ in KEMPTVILLE PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTRE many ways.

Last year, we ran an art exhibit in Geronimo Café in Old Town Kemptville for the entire month. We featured art from children in Kemptville schools, wrapping up with a fun and successful fundraising auction for Habitat for Humanity. There is a great Facebook page with photos: go on Facebook and type in ‘share-the-love-kemptville’.

ADVERT #2 This year, our campaign 2868 COUNTY ROAD 43, KEMPTVILLE, ON has grown and coincides with 613.258.7661 / KEMPTVILLEPHYSIO.COM NEW SERVICES AVAILABLE a Habitat ReStore coming to Kemptville. Three local businesses are sharing the love: Geronimo Caféphoto ChilPLAQUE MOUNTING ~ Have your poster, picture, m dry mounted onto a plaque, nodren’s frame required, a price to Art Wall is back: your suit any budget. child/children are invited to

make small creative pieces that can be mounted on the Geronimo wall, reflecting on their understanding of what it means for a child not to have a secure, safe, warm home or enough to eat. The public will be invited to drop by Geronimo’s anytime during the month to see the children’s art. Having their own art hang in a gallery exhibit can be an exciting moment of achievement for a child.

Brewed Awakenings Community Cookies: Brewed Awakenings café on Highway 43 will be offering heart shaped cookies for sale by donation of any amount for the month of February. This makes the yummy cookies accessible to all income brackets, while supporting the Habitat ReStore.

Branch Restaurant Information Evening: An information evening featuring free hot chocolate and treats is being planned for Monday, February 22. Families and individuals are invited to hear about how poverty and insecure housing impact ar-

“Shadowboxes Galore!”

Custom Picture Framing www.trojanacres.ca studio@trojanacres.ca

eas like ours, about Habitat, and how the community can be involved with the new ReStore. The ReStore represents sustainability and accessibility on many levels: profits generated go directly to local Habitat house builds, costs are kept down by working with volunteers, used building materials and furniture become available for sale at low-income friendly price-points, and materials are recycled.

We hope you and your family can get out and enjoy the cookies, art and hot chocolate. We also hope your child will consider reflecting on the poverty issues and submitting their creation for the Children’s Art Wall.

We also hope that you can voice your concerns about poverty and insecure housing in our area by contacting the Municipality. The strategic plan and policies are currently in review, and can still be influenced by citizen concerns.

You can find out more at: www.leedsgrenville.com/en/ live/housing/affordablehous-

ing.asp Some facts about insecure housing, rural poverty and Habitat for Humanity: Children in low income or unstable homes are at higher risk of lower mental and physical health, school results and prospects for a solid future. One out of four rural households are in the lowest income categories. An unbelievable number of local families in North Grenville live below the poverty line and with insecure/inadequate housing which is usually associated with family instability, and even food insecurity affecting child development.

Providing stable housing and mentoring for families changes their present, and it changes their future to the next generation by breaking the cycle of poverty. Breaking the poverty cycle for families strengthens communities, reduces public costs and risky youth behaviours, improves the economy and makes our town a great place to live.

CANVAS TRANSFER ~ You provide a wedding photo, travel photo, etc. and we transfer it onto canvas. Regular depth canvas ready to assemble in a frame, or Gallery depth canvas that’s ready to hang on the wall.

Local engineering firm Morey Associates moves in to Cornerstone Mall

~ Looking for a frame that’s not custom? Several sizes & Open 7 READY-MADE days/week by FRAMES appointment 613.258.5558 choices available. Come take a peek.

Open 7 days/week by appointment.

2536 McGovern West, Oxford Mills (613) 258-5558 www.trojanacres.ca Gillian Trojan, CPF

3-bedroom or 2 bedroom options available

BRANDING Just got a lot more fun

Good branding doesn’t have to be a chore.

BUSINESS CONTENT.CA 613.710.7104 PHOTO • VIDEO • GRAPHIC

February 10, 2016

The Cornerstone Mall has a new tenant! At the beginning of February, local engineering firm Morey Associates Ltd. moved into the space that used to by occupied by Sheppard and Associates, who have now moved to a larger office at the Creekside Centre.

“It is the perfect space for us,” says Dan Morey, engineer and owner of Morey Associates Ltd. Morey Associates Ltd. has been servicing the civil, geotechnical, hydrogeological, environmental and structural engineering needs of North Grenville, Ottawa and the surrounding areas since 2012. It is a small business comprised of Dan, his father Randy Morey and their senior technician, Matt Panciuk. Morey Associates Ltd. has deep roots in North Grenville.

Randy Morey has been working as a professional

engineer in the area for over 35 years. He started his own firm in Kemptville in 1994 and Dan has been working alongside him since high school. “He’s taught me a lot about engineering and business and it’s great to continue working side by side with him at Morey Associates Ltd.” The business started out in a small home office but has since outgrown the space. “When I saw the sign in Cathy Sheppard’s window, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” Dan says.

The Morey Associates Ltd. engineering team is looking forward to continuing to work with people in North Grenville from their new office. If you need any engineering work done, don’t hesitate to drop by their office at 2672 Highway 43 or give them a call at 613-215-0605.

2

New Chamber member, Dan Morey welcomed to his new office by Chamber Board member Cathy Sheppard

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Kemptville Public School set to open next year The Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) has issued a statement concerning the planned new Kemptville Public School, which is being planned for a site on County Road 44 just north of the Municipal Centre. The Board recognised the partnership that has developed with the Municipality of North Grenville and Jeff McMillan, board chair, said in the statement that: “We look forward to working with our municipal partner to move ahead on this important project for the community of Kemptville. We’re excited to get this process back on track for our students and families in that area.”

The project has been plagued by delays and redrafting of plans to account for changes in the landscape produced by clearance of the

site. Tenders had been issued for the construction of the school, but had to be cancelled until the changes to the draft plans were completed.

“I’m very happy we’re taking the necessary steps to ensure we make this new school a reality,” said Trustee Lisa Swan. “We look forward to providing our students with the top-quality facility they deserve.” A call for tenders on the project was issued on January 28. The projected deadline for prequalified construction firms to submit tenders is March 2.

The Board provided an updated description of the new facility in their statement: “The new single-storey, 438-pupil, air-conditioned school will be located on the west side of County Road 44, about 1.2 kilometres north of

County Road 43. Designed

by Architecture49, the 43,836 square-foot structure will feature four kindergarten classrooms, 14 regular classrooms, an open multi-function resource space with a stage, and project/resource rooms adjacent to classrooms. It will replace the current, aging Kemptville Public School, located on Reuben Crescent.

That facility was originally built in 1958, with an addition in 1978. The board hopes to have the new facility opened sometime in the next school year.”

However, public reaction to the statement has raised more concerns. When the Board’s Statement was posted on the Times Facebook page last week, parents and residents pointed out some inconsistencies. One poster noted:

“Presently has 5 kindergarten classes yet only 4 in the proposed plan?”.

Another resident noticed that the Board may already have rethought the plan in the light of the redrafting and made the school smaller than originally intended. “Hard to believe it is projected to be smaller than the current demand. What about all the classrooms at the annex?”

Allison Grange, Communications Manager for the UCDSB, has stated that there were no changes made to size of the school itself from the original plans. Funding was provided for 412 students, and the final agreed number will be 438.

The full Board Statement can be found on our Facebook page and on our website at www.ngtimes.ca

Erick Le Pors

Catering for all occasions

STRESS FREE ENTERTAINING since 1992

613.860.2539 www.dialachef.ca

For Advertising rates please contact Gord at gord@ngtimes.ca or call 613 258 6402

Healthy Kids Community Challenge Leeds and Grenville Leeds and Grenville is one of 45 communities across Ontario taking part in The Healthy Kids Community Challenge (HKCC). The Healthy Kids Community Challenge unites communities with a common goal of promoting children's health through physical activity and healthy eating.

Approximately every nine months, the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care will launch a new theme related to physical activity or healthy eating. Communities will rally around the theme, and work with partners in many sectors to develop programs, polices and initiatives that promote and enable healthy behaviours.

It takes a whole community to raise a healthy child!

Working together we can help build supportive communities that promote and protect health and help families find balance in their lives.

Under the leadership of

municipalities, selected communities will receive funding and supports from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) to implement local activities based on a specific theme related to healthy eating and/or physical activity. Over the course of this three year initiative, a new theme will be introduced approximately every nine months. Themes selected will address the risk or protective factors that are known to lead to or prevent childhood overweight and obesity (e.g. eat a healthy breakfast).

The Challenge combines a community-led approach with centralized provincial coordination to help communities develop and implement evidence-based policies, programs and environmental supports that encourage healthy weights. While the overarching goal of The Challenge as stated by MOHLT is to "reduce childhood overweight and obesity through

community-led planning and action", the focus is on healthy kids, not just healthy weights and recognizes that healthy kids live in healthy families, schools and communities.

The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville has established a communitybased Steering Committee comprised of partners from Health, Education, Recreation and Business. The Steering Committee will guide the planning and implementation of The Challenge activities throughout Leeds and Grenville. Informed by community profile data and evidencebased best practices, Leeds and Grenville communities will see policies, programs and supports implemented to engage and support children and families in pursuit of healthy lifestyles.

The Action-Based theme for the first year of The Challenge is "Run. Jump. Play.

Every Day." Children, fami-

lies and communities will be challenged to become more active.

The webpage, local print media and social media will be used to promote the Challenge activities and to engage residents in actively participating.

Our Community Champions, who are the spokes people for The Challenge in Leeds Grenville, are Doug Stuthers and Dr. Paula Stewart, MD, FRCPC, Medical Officer of Health, Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit.

The North Grenville Times is available in Oxford Mills at the Brigadoon Restaurant

The Branch Restaurant hosting concert in support of R.I.N.G.

by Hilary Thomson The Branch Restaurant will be hosting an afternoon of local talent at the end of the month to support the fundraising efforts of Refegees In North Grenville (R.I.N.G).

On Sunday, February 28, three local bands will perform starting with acoustic duo The Heroic Mad Peasants at 3 pm with songs focusing February 10, 2016

on ordinary people doing extraordinary things. At 4 pm, The Castle Minstrels will take the stage with a blend of Celtic and Canadian old time fiddle tunes, followed by the rootsy harmonic stylings of Bella Borealis at 5 pm.

Throughout the show, there will also be a silent auction featuring two lap quilts donated by Pat Kitley, a member of the Kemptville

Quilters Guild. Local artist Neal Kempster has also donated a painting of sunflowers to be auctioned off.

The Branch will be offering their Rubber Boots Buffet from 2-8 pm complete with soup, salad and BBQ. The concert is by donation, however a minimum donation of $5 is suggested.

Event organizer Polly Beach hopes to raise $2500 for

R.I.N.G. by afternoon’s end.

All money raised will go towards furthering R.I.N.G.’s goal of bringing two Syrian refugee families to North Grenville.

Donations are still being accepted for the silent auction. If you have something to donate, please contact Polly at 613-269-9320 or R.I.N.G. through their Facebook page.

3

www.ngtimes.ca

Editorial

The North Grenville Times

Local news poverty

by David Shanahan In the past week, CBC radio have had two programs dealing with what has come to be called Local News Poverty. The idea is that so many local newspapers have been bought out by corporations, such as Metroland and Postmedia, that coverage of local news and events has been sharply curtailed.

The sensitivity of corporate boards has certainly resulted in an unwillingness on the part of many editors to cover controversial or politically sensitive issues. In a recent article in the Ottawa Citizen, the situation was described this way: “Consider Postmedia, the biggest newspaper chain in the country. It is largely owned by an American hedge fund, which regularly drains the member newspapers' dwindling profits at a handsome interest rate as their newsrooms are merged and hollowed out to cut costs, and editorial direction is dictated from corporate headquarters.” [Citizen, Feb. 7] Corporations are all about profit, and anything which threatens revenues, es-

pecially anything that might be considered “political”, or “biased”, is shunned out of fear. In a recent talk to the Carleton School of Journalism, Marty Baron, executive editor of the Washington Post, noted that: "In this environment, too many news organizations are holding back, out of fear — fear that we will be saddled with an uncomfortable political label, fear that we will be accused of bias, fear that we will be portrayed as negative, fear that we will lose customers, fear that advertisers will run from us, fear that we will be assailed as anti-this or antithat, fear that we will offend someone, anyone.”

April Lindgren, associate professor in Ryerson University's School of Journalism and academic director of the Ryerson Journalism Research Centre, said in an article on CBC.ca that truly local media are essential to the well being of a community: "The very presence of local media watching, research seems to suggest, acts as a check on political shenanigans. If a community doesn't have a local newspaper or station, it usually

means little to no coverage of things such as council meetings. Even if you don't agree with how a debate is covered, there's great value in the mere fact it is covered. Just the fact that there's somebody at the city council writing a story about what happened informs citizens and at least lets them know what's on the agenda in their community."

That is why local media, particularly print media, is so important. When this paper started publishing three years ago, there was almost no coverage of local events, and political reporting was devoid of any insight or incisiveness. Anyone can see that, as the months went by, this gradually changed as both newspapers available in North Grenville competed to provide more local news.

That is a sign of a healthy media environment. The fact is that people want to know what’s happening in their community; they want local information, to be kept informed, and, yes, to have something to disagree with at times too.

What is the alternative?

Larger papers, like the Citizen, or even the Brockville

The Voice of North Grenville

Recorder, will not cover municipal government in North Grenville, or MerrickvilleWolford. They will not report on local events, issues, or controversies. The NG Times has always believed that a community should have a forum in which residents can talk to each other, especially when there is disagreement or alternatives that need publicising.

Diana Fisher, of Juice FM has said that: “Local news is going the way of the Dodo bird in terms of print publications. It’s all going to be on-line eventually.”

But I don’t believe that is the case. Online sources, blogs, Facebook, and even local radio in North Grenville, are not designed to do the job of print media. Newspapers are answerable to readers, advertisers, and in day-today contact with the public.

Getting facts wrong consistently, or failing to allow a hearing to divergent points of view, will undermine our credibility and finish us as a business. The market place will judge.

Juice FM has a role to play, but the terms of its licence from the CRTC limit

Letters to the Editor To the Editor and your Readers: Do yourself a favour, if you haven't already done so, and visit the Ferguson Forest Centre. Hundreds of acres of well-maintained multipurpose trails await you. The beauty of this landscape is astounding! Nature at its best!

At this time of the year, one can snowshoe, walk the family dog(s), cross-country ski, bird-watch, and much more. The trails are well maintained. The recreational space features an active nursery specializing in high value, high quality native trees and shrubs.

A project currently underway at the Forest is the arboretum. Its development and nurturing will necessitate strong community support and this is where we come in.

We all have ideas and suggestions which the Ferguson Forest Board of Directors wants to hear about. You are encouraged to contact Director Carl

Doucette at ca.doucette@ cogeco.ca.

Can you imagine? A legacy tree component! This initiative will allow you to purchase native trees as a tribute to family and friends. Special commemorative plaques will be placed at the foot of each tree. What a wonderful idea!

In the meantime, please consider becoming a Friend of the Ferguson Forest Centre, a group of communityminded individuals who are doing a magnificent job supporting the FFC. The time is ripe; your assistance and involvement are needed!

E-mail them at executives@ friendsofthefergusonforest. ca.

Let's support "this wonderful gift nature has given us," to quote Todd MacDonald.

Sincerely, Patrick Babin

February 10, 2016

Marketing Peter Peers peter@ngtimes.ca 613 989-2850

CLASSIFIEDS: First 10 words free if submitted by email.

Extra word 50 cents, photo $10, border $2, shading $5.

Submit to production@ ngtimes.ca.

Email must include name, address and phone #.

Must be related to North Grenville/Merrickville

Send in your letters to the editor to editor@ngtimes.ca

Free Employer Training “Effectively hiring immigrant employees from within Canada, and abroad” Wednesday February 17, 6 pm - 8:30 pm 380 Colonnade Dr., Kemptville (Grenville Mutual Insurance Company) Presenters from Hire Immigrants Ottawa and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Hosted by CSE Consulting, North Grenville Business Retention & Expansion Alliance, and the Leeds & Grenville Immigration Partnership

OPP arrest suspects in robbery and assault A 30 year old male from North Grenville and a 19 year old female from Augusta Township were arrested on February 4, 2015 at a residence in North Grenville.

The male has been charged with the following: -Theft Under $5000 X 5 -Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000 -Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle -Drive While Disqualified -Assault a Peace Officer with a Weapon -Fail to Stop at the Scene of an Accident -Fraud Under $5000 X 2 The female has been charged with the following: -Theft Under $5000 X 3 -Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000 -Fail to Comply with Recognizance X 6 Both are being held in custody pending a bail hearing.

ISSN 2291-0301 www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc. Marketing Gord J. Logan gord@ngtimes.ca 613-258-6402

it in what it can do in covering news. Interviews are confined to a few minutes, panel discussions or phoneins are not allowed. Online commentators or Facebook posters can be freer in what they say, because they don’t have to answer for their accuracy. Print media cannot be allowed to become extinct, because it can still be the most responsible, the most in-depth form of reporting we have. As long as everyone has a voice in our pages, we can speak freely to each other and find a common identity as residents of this community.

There is, I honestly believe, no local news poverty in North Grenville or Merrickville-Wolford, as long as we have newspapers who spark off each other, spur each other on to be their best and provide the most complete service to their readers.

As we continue to increase our population, and as the issues affecting us continue to grow more complex, the need and the ability to be able to communicate with each other increases also.

That is the job of a free and independent press.

613-258-5083

Editor David Shanahan david@ngtimes.ca 613-258-5083

Copy Editor Pat Jessop editor@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671

Production Manager Marguerite Boyer production@ngtimes.ca 613-258-5083

4

Mailing Address 10 Water Street, Oxford Mills, ON, K0G 1S0 Graphics Accounting Micheal Pacitto cfo@ngtimes.ca mike@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671 613-710-7104

Staff Reporter Beth Nicol beth@ngtimes.ca 613-258-0033 Staff Reporter Hilary Thomson hilary@ngtimes.ca

www.ngtimes.ca

Municipality Matters

The North Grenville Times

North Grenville notes Following the announcement by the federal government of new funding for infrastructure, the Municipality of North Grenville has investigated the criteria for funding projects and believe that the four-laning of County Road 43 qualifies. According to CAO Brian Carré, there is also a belief that the RideauSaunders reconstruction project would also qualify for federal funding, which it is planned would flow through the provincial government.

Brian has joined with United Counties CAO Andy Brown to request a meeting with Brad Duguid, Ontario Minister of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure, at the AMO/ OGRA conference to discuss the possibility of finally getting funding approval for the project.

Mayor David Gordon has also stated that the CR 43 project is a No. 1 priority of the United Counties of Leeds & Grenville [UCLG], and is in the top 3 for the Province.

Although funding for the widening of CR 43 has been denied on a few occasions, as other projects are approved, projects are re-evaluated and move up the priority list.

Both the CAO and the Mayor emphasised that there has been no written confirmation received from either the province or the federal governments as yet.

One road that may get some attention soon is Water

Street in Oxford Mills. The main road through the hamlet is a County Road, and has suffered a great deal from the regular traffic using it over the past decade. Heavy trucks from Cruickshank’s quarry, school buses, and municipal graders and snow ploughs from the garage at Maplewood have left their marks on the surface. It is hoped that repaving can be completed this year.

Another reconstruction project that will not be getting any funding from municipalities is the Andrewsville Bridge, just west of Burritt’s Rapids. At the end of January, Leeds Grenville MPP Steve Clark hosted a discussion meeting in Merrickville for input on the provincial budget. Clark says he felt it was important to hear from people living in rural areas as to what items are of importance to them. The Andrewsville Bridge was a hot topic, as locals are seeking funding to have it replaced. The Friends of the Andrewsville Bridge say the cost of the rebuild is estimated at $400,000 to $1 million dollars. Clark said infrastructure isn’t even in the top five provincial expenditures and many funding requests from smaller municipalities are being denied.

Mayor Gordon has since stated that the rebuilding of the bridge will not be funded by either the UCLG or by Lanark County. The Mayor pointed out that taxpayers in

United Counties News

the counties don’t have the money. The current state of the bridge, he says, has no effect on the quality of life, as it doesn’t affect ambulances or emergency services, and residents can quickly and easily cross the Rideau at Burritt’s or Merrickville. This will come as a disappointment to the Friends of Andrewsville Bridge, a group of local residents who have been lobbying for funding to repair and rehabilitate the bridge for a number of years.

Late last year, the Municipality approved a staff report on the future use of some municipally-owned buildings, including Maplewood Community Hall in Oxford Mills and the old Kemptville Town Hall, now the Court House.

At the time, organisations affected by the report, including the Oxford Mills Community Association [OMCA] and the North Grenville Historical Society, were promised that they would soon be consulted on the future of the buildings.

No consultations have yet taken place, but CAO Brian Carré has announced that there may be movement on the issue soon. “We hope to have an administrative report to Council in February. We will be communicating with OMCA on an on-going basis.

We are looking at a variety of option. One of them is status quo, and it depends a lot on the dollar figure. When we’re considering those options, the financial angle is critical.”

Counties working on Official Plan modifications: Counties staff and the Planning Group will be meeting to discuss modifications to the Official Plan requested by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

Counties Council adapted its first Official Plan last summer pursuant to the Planning Act and its regulations. The Ministry submitted its draft decision on the plan in December with proposed modifications. The Counties have 180 days to submit comments.

Counties is now recruiting for temporary planning assistance from a consultant and/ or planner while its Manager of Planning Services is off on leave. A subsequent report will be done in response to the request for modifications.

Eastern Ontario Wardens focus on growth, economy: United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Warden Dave Gordon outlined to Counties Council members the 2016 priorities of the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC).

February 10, 2016

well as municipal, provincial and federally funded services like housing, employment and mental health and addiction agencies. Residents can also call 2-1-1 for services like food banks or for the nonemergency police number.

“211 is a single point of access, connecting Canadians to services that are provided by local charities and nonprofits – it is a great resource for the citizens of Leeds & Grenville,” said Melissa Hillier, Executive Director, United Way Leeds & Grenville.

Brockville Police Chief Scott Fraser, “The reduction of non-urgent 911 calls will ensure a quick response to an emergency. Dialing 211 will give you direct access to trained professionals who know our community. Resources and support in one call is a benefit to all”.

Residents should always call 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies or crimes in

The Warden recently attended the EOWC annual meeting in Kingston where Peter Emon, Warden of the County of Renfrew, was elected Chair. The Vice-chair for the second consecutive year is Peterborough County Warden J. Murray Jones.

The Caucus has listed five priorities to focus on, beginning with “convincing the province, Hydro One and the major natural gas providers to urgently invest in the region’s hydro-electricity and natural gas transmission systems, to provide major industrial and commercial customers with affordable expansion opportunities and greater relief in operational costs.”

Secondly, the Caucus lists working in tandem with the Eastern Ontario Regional Network (EORN) to close gaps in cellular and mobile broadband networks existing in many rural eastern Ontario communities, including Leeds Grenville.

Connectivity is considered an essential service which is

indispensable for economic development, home-based businesses, and emergency services. The third priority is continuing research and advocacy on the province’s consideration for “growth planning for eastern Ontario.” There is a concern the proposed growth-planning exercise for this region could negatively impact the growth potential and economic development opportunities in the small, rural townships.

Caucus will also be supporting the Leadership Council, formed in 2015, as it begins implementation of the key actions proposed in the Eastern Ontario Economic Development Strategy. The fifth and final priority listed by the Caucus is advocating at the provincial level for an across-the-board decrease in Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) costs, namely by eliminating inefficiencies in service delivery.

For more information contact CAO, Andy Brown at 342-3840, ext. 2301.

Gord Brown presses government for Rideau Canal and Thousand Islands National Park infrastructure Gord Brown, Member of Parliament for LeedsGrenville, Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, recently wrote a letter to federal environment minister Catherine McKenna, reminding her that the previous Conservative government earmarked funds for infrastructure projects for Parks Canada assets in LeedsGrenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes.

“Every day, I hear the new government talking about kick-starting infrastructure and every day I

On 211 Day, residents are encouraged to make the right call February 11 is 2-1-1 Day across North America. To mark this day, United Way Leeds & Grenville and 211 Ontario helpline is asking residents to make the right call if they want or need help.

Knowing the right number to call will help people find the right services for their situation and will help reduce non-urgent calls to 911.

“211 has rapidly become an essential community service across Ontario. It’s the easiest and fastest way for our community’s most vulnerable, and those who care for them, to connect to social, health and government services,” said Andrew Benson, Executive Director of Ontario 211.

211 is answered live, 24 hours a day, every day of the year including holidays, in more than 150 languages.

Residents can call 2-1-1 for information on community, social and health services, as

The Voice of North Grenville

progress that require police, fire or paramedic services.

When people don’t know where to turn, 211 is there for them.

EXAMPLES OF NONURGENT CALLS THAT S H O U L D N O T H AV E GONE TO 911: My car won’t start and I have to get to work…

My neighbour is having a party and there is too much noise…

I need the fire department to come and get my basketball out of the tree…

I am lonely and want to hear a friendly voice…

I need help getting my teenager to listen to me…

I have a medical appointment and don’t have transportation to get there…

Call 211 to find any health, social or government services that serve your community.

For more information, go to the web site at: www.211ontario.ca.

CLASSIFIEDS: First 10 words free if submitted by email.

Extra word 50 cents, photo $10, border $2, shading $5.

Submit to production@ ngtimes.ca.

Email must include name, address and phone #.

Must be related to North Grenville/Merrickville

5

hear about cities lining up for money for big city projects to spend that money,” says Gord. “Meanwhile, we fought long and hard to put together immediate infrastructure programs for the Rideau Canal and the Thousand Islands National Park. I aim to ensure that those dollars are spent right here!”

When the budget was balanced last year, the Conservative government announced $39.4 million worth of projects for the Rideau Canal and $7.7 million for rehabilitation of

Thousand Islands National Park. “We recognized how important both these assets are to Canada and to our local communities. I worked hard to enhance the Rideau Canal and the Thousand Islands National Park and I will make sure that all the money that was pledged for these two jewels is spent right where it is supposed to be spent.”

In his letter Mr. Brown also pledged to work with the new government to continue to promote and enhance both these assets.

KEMPTVILLE COMPUTERS REPAIRS, UPGRADES, VIRUS REMOVAL, NETWORKING & MORE! WE FIX IT, OR YOU DON’T PAY! (613) 218 5322 WWW.KEMPTVILLECOMPUTERS.COM

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Shop Downtown Kemptville

Steve Clark objects to the new Trails Bill Responding to concerns from property owners and trail groups alike, LeedsGrenville MPP Steve Clark has called on the government to immediately withdraw Bill 100, the Supporting Ontario’s Trails Act, 2015.

Steve, who serves as Ontario PC Critic for Tourism, Culture and Sport, made the request on Monday in a letter to Tourism, Culture and Sport Minister Michael Coteau.

Bill 100 was tabled by the government on May 12, 2015 and has not been called for Second Reading.

“While I appreciate the intention of this legislation was to promote and enhance trail usage within the province, you need to understand that it is having the opposite effect,” the MPP wrote. “My office is hearing from trail groups across Eastern Ontario now being served notice from property owners that existing access agreements have been terminated. Already, significant sections of snowmobile trails in my riding of LeedsGrenville have been closed.”

He said the major problem with Bill 100 is the ambiguity

of the section dealing with easements between property owners and trail groups such as snowmobile and ATV clubs, hikers, horse-back riders and skiers.

“Had you taken the time to consult with user groups and property owners directly before tabling the bill, you would have known how precarious the relationship between these two bodies can be. The last thing this relationship needed was legislation that opened the door for interference from government and other ‘nominees.’ This is

yet another example of how tone deaf your government has become to the residents of rural Ontario.”

Steve said the Ontario PC Caucus supports enhancing trail usage in the province because it’s an important component of our tourism sector. This is particularly true in North Grenville, where the Trails Strategy is a central plank in the community’s strategic plan and is seen as an important component in any economic development plan that would include tourism.

pointing to office a person who is both experienced and eminently qualified in the field of responsibility. Mary Jean McFall is from Brockville and is the “heir” to the Burnbrae Farms company, one of Canada’s largest egg producers, with farms and egg grading operations in Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba and Alberta. She was on the board of directors of the Egg Farmers of Ontario for twelve years, and has degrees from both the University of Toronto and Harvard. One source has assessed the family business to be worth about $140 million.

The new Chief of Staff pointed out that it was this expertise that won her the job, rather than any party allegiances, but opposition Conservatives strongly disagreed with that assessment.

A professor at the Sprott School of Business at Carleton University has also criticised the appointment as “a grotesque and flagrant conflict of interest”. In a stinging condemnation of the appointment, Ian Lee said: “She has a stellar CV and a distinguished career. But the minister is supposed to represent all Canadians, not just the few farmers under

The Voice of North Grenville

United Way Leeds & Grenville buckles down in 2016

by Melissa Hillier, Executive Director UWLG In spite of an extended campaign into December 2015, results for the United Way Leeds & Grenville’s annual efforts have come in just shy of its objectives by 18.3%. Last year was the first year the non-profit agency switched from an annual campaign focused on dollars raised, to a more meaningful measure of lives changed within the community.

As a result of fundraising efforts, the United Way Leeds & Grenville will be able to change 27,050 of the 33,102 lives they had aimed to help in 2016.

In response to this temporary setback, the agency has taken steps to minimize the impact on the local organizations it serves. The Board of Directors has agreed to use some of the agency’s reserves to bridge the gap created by the campaign shortfall, and efforts are underway to find efficiencies internally.

“The most important work we do as an organization is supporting our partner agencies in the work they are doing every day to change lives in our community,” said Michael Jiggins, Board President. “That’s why the board felt it was critical to use our reserves to bridge this year’s shortfall. At the same time, we also recognize the need to examine our own operations to determine how we can reduce costs.”

Local agencies have responded positively to this direction: “Residents of rural North Leeds communities are indeed fortunate to once again

be recipients of UWLG funding and are proud of the support that our communities gave towards the fundraising campaign. Had the gap not been met, residents of communities including Elgin, Westport and Portland would have had far more difficulty in accessing health and social service supports which the United Way helps us to provide at Guthrie House and through our North Leeds Youth program. United Way contributes to strong and vibrant rural communities and indeed does change lives,” remarked Marty Crapper, Executive Director of the Country Roads Community Health Centre in Portland.

The campaign shortfall is being attributed mainly to external forces outside the agency’s control which impacted fundraising efforts, such as the Federal election, the economy, and labour disputes amongst traditionally prolific supporters.

“The landscape has clearly changed from its traditional shape; and, although there were many external facts affecting campaign results, we are also going through a very thorough analysis with the Campaign Cabinet to ensure that we are adjusting our methods, timing and efforts in ways which will enable us to return to previously established fundraising levels.” said Terry O’Reilly, this year’s Campaign Chair.

“We have recognized that in a changing environment, we also need to adapt and refine the structure and execution of our campaign efforts, and are committed to doing that.”

supply management. She is part of a family that is one of the largest and most wealthy beneficiaries of supply management, and the minister should be scrupulously neutral. How on earth can he possibly review this policy, when his chief of staff is a beneficiary of a system that exploits the middle class?”

There is no doubt that Mary Jean will have a great deal to say about the international trade deals that the Government will be reviewing in the coming months, particularly the Trans Pacific Partnership, which Canada signed on February 4. As

part of the trade agreement, Canada will be opening its dairy industry to outside producers, and it is widely recognised as threatening the current supply management system which the new Chief of Staff stated during the election was essential to the continuing prosperity of the agricultural sector in this country.

It may well prove to be the case that, by losing the last election, Mary Jean McFall has ended up in a more influential position on international and Canadian policies than Gord Brown.

Post election post

Mary Jean McFall, the Liberal candidate in this riding during the recent federal election, has been given the post of Chief of Staff to the February 10, 2016

Minister for Agriculture and Agri-food, Lawrence MacAuley. She had managed to pose a serious challenge to returning MP Gord Brown in the election, where she cut his majority from around 20,000 votes to just 3,571, a result which surprised many traditional voters in the region.

Reaction to her appointment has been, as might have been expected, mixed and divides quite sharply along party lines. The Liberal Government has pointed out that they have continued the pattern begun by the new Prime Minister by ap-

6

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Annual Sweetheart Brunch in honour of Sheila and Harry Pratt

by Hilary Thomson Love is in the air. And, in North Grenville, that means the annual Knights of Columbus’ Sweetheart Brunch!

This will be the event’s 18th year serving the community: a delicious all-you-caneat brunch in support of the various charities and service groups that play a role in making North Grenville a great place to live. North Grenville Accessible Transportation, The Kemptville District Hospital Foundation, Community Living, The North Grenville Community Services Council, Kemptville District Home Support, The Beth Donovan Hospice, Ryan’s Well

and Scouts Canada are just a few of the organizations that the brunch is supporting this year. If funds come in as they normally do, the Sweetheart Brunch will have put over $200,000 back into the community, says Dermid O’Farrell, chair of the Sweetheart Brunch.

“Any little bit that we can do to add to the monies that they need over the year is significant to us and significant to them, and we’re just very happy to be a part of that.”

Every year, the brunch is served on the closest Sunday of the month to Valentine’s Day. This year is a special year for the Sweetheart Brunch. Not only does it fall directly on Valentine’s Day, it

is also being held in honour of two very important members of the community, Harry and Sheila Pratt.

“We’re very grateful this year to be doing it in honour of Harry and Sheila Pratt,” says Dermid. “Harry was one of the biggest promoters of this event and they’ve given so much to the community.

During the brunch, there will there be a slideshow commemorating Harry’s life and commitment to the community, and the carnations that are sold every year have been dedicated to Harry and will be called Harry’s Carnations going forward. “He loved to give the ladies flowers,” Dermid remembers.

The Sweetheart Brunch

will be held at the North Grenville Municipal Centre from 8:30 am-1 pm on Sunday, February 14. Dermid says that, while this event is the brainchild of the Knights of Columbus, it is the community at large that makes it such a success. It takes approximately 80-100 people to organize, prepare and serve the brunch that feeds upwards of 1,000 people every year.

“It really is a community effort,” says Dermid. “It’s a ton of fun working with everyone involved.”

For more about the Sweetheart Brunch, check out our interview with Dermid O’Farrell on our website. www.ngtimes.ca.

improve and be considerably easier if they had easy access to clean potable water, sanitation, and hygiene education. This is where the Ryan’s Well Foundation aims to make a difference. Together we can help provide clean water, education, and hope to these

women and their families.

On March 1, let’s make a ripple.

Tickets can be purchased in advance at Stoneface Dollys, 416 Preston Street, Ottawa, Ontario (613) 5642222, or by phone at the Ryan’s Well Foundation office: 613 258 -6832

Women Helping Women Ryan’s Well Foundation will be hosting a Ladies Night on March 1, 6-9 pm at Stoneface Dollys, 416 Preston Street in Ottawa. The cost is $45.00 and includes a beverage, tapas and silent auction.

One in ten people lack access to clean water in de-

veloping countries, yet it is a resource that North Americans take for granted every day. In countries like Togo and Uganda, women often miss school and endanger their lives to travel many miles to find water, only to find it dirty and diseased.

Women’s lives would

Bayfield Manor Volunteer appreciation luncheon “Thank You for the lives you touch – you’re appreciated so very much” Bayfield Manor Nursing and Retirement Home would like to invite our Volunteers to join us for our Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon held on Thursday, February 18, 2016 at 1:30 pm. Hosted in the dining room on Retirement side.

Please RSVP as soon as possible to Kelly Vander Velde or Mark James at 613-258-7484.

February 10, 2016

results of the survey which were most impressive. In response to the question: “Overall, do you feel safe in North Grenville”, an overwhelming 95.4% answered in the affirmative. Only 4.6% said they did not feel safe in their community.

This was almost exactly the same percentage as responded that way in 2011. In summary, the prevention of, or reduction in the incidents of violent crime ranked high with respondents, as did the importance of the RIDE programs which operate through the year. Driving of-

UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL Monday, February 29 at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Centre.

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Tuesday, February 16 at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Centre. For agenda information, please contact the Clerk’s Office or visit the Municipal website.

FAMILY DAY SCHEDULE CHANGES Due to Family Day on Monday, February 15, all solid waste and recycling pick-up for the week of February 15 to 19 will be delayed one day. The Municipal Centre, Public Library and Oxford Mills Waste Transfer Station will also be closed on the holiday Monday.

2016 BURN PERMITS In accordance with By-Law 33-12, a Burn Permit is required to conduct open burning on property located outside of the urban area. Burn Permits for 2016 are available at the Municipal Office or at the Fire Hall at 259 County Rd. 44 for a fee of $15. Please contact the Fire Hall at 613-258-2438 ext. 5 for conditions prior to burning.

2016 DOG LICENSES Renewal notices will be mailed to all currently registered dog owners. If you are not a currently registered dog owner, please contact By-Law Services at 613-258-2438 ext. 6 for further information. The 2016 rate for Dog Licenses is a flat fee of $15 for each dog. For information on Kennel Licenses, please contact By-Law Services.

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

Community policing survey published The North Grenville Police Services Board made a presentation to Council on Monday night, providing the results of a survey they had conducted on Community Policing in North Grenville. The Board were very pleased with public input through the survey, which were almost twice the level of the last survey in 2011. The Board received 658 responses between September 29 and November 5, 2015, of which more than 70% came through online submissions.

But it was the overall

UPDATE

fenses, elder abuse and drug awareness in schools were considered either “important”, or “very important” issues by at least 73% of those who took part in the survey.

The results of this latest consultation process by the Police Services Board will help them in setting priorities and budget strategies in the coming years.

TEXT ADS just not working?

Put a face to the name with

BUSINESS CONTENT.CA 613.710.7104 PHOTO • VIDEO • GRAPHIC

7

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

73’s shutdown Braves back to back to bury the reserve. 73's PK was exceptional with Peter Brooks putting on a clinic and leading the Braves 2-0 as well as a 18-13 SOG. Second twenty should have had "swinging doors" on the "sin bin" for both clubs until a PPG as Ian Johnston rifled a rebound past Brooks with helpers from Billings and Faith. Period ended with the Braves out-shooting 73's 15-14 and behind by one.

Another game saver......73’s Peter Brooks put on a clinic by the sports guy After a disappointing showing last week, the boys acknowledge their own dissatisfaction with their performance and wanted to give an exciting evening for their fans whot made the trip to Brockville.

The Brockville Braves had other ideas on their home ice, with a 34-14-1-1 record, wanting to move up the standings before play-offs.

Alex Row released a quick wrist shot to the short side at 19:37 after Wichers sprang Dow up the boards for first blood. Guy break from below the line to Alavi over to Jake Gaudet trailing as he rifled it home at 6:38. 73's close out the period with 2 goal lead while being out-shot 12-9.

Second stanza would be a

February 10, 2016

three goal romp for our boys to give us a 5-0 advantage and Peter Brooks working on his SO. At 18:32, a tic-tac-toe from Tackett to Kiriacou to Victor Tracy to chase Braves Cerasuolo for an early shower.

Guy knocked down clearing to Tackett gliding across the line as he received a vicious slash combination spear from Braves Gill.

Russell corralled loose rubber to launch missile from top of the circle so Adam Alavi could resend a quick backhand at 12:55. Dow forced the play off the halfwall to Gaudet on doorstep and Alex Row capitalized on rebound for 5-0 walk-away at 10:29 to end with 73's outgunning Braves 19-9.

Final twenty with back and forth effort until 6:47 when Jack Gill from Dun-

leavy and Faith to spoil Peter Brooks SO attempt. Braves SOG 11-8 with 73's 5-1 victory.

The Jason Tackett show with a goal and two assists makes him the recipient of the Mark's Work Warehouse Award.

Well it's Saturday night hockey in our barn to reface the Brockville Braves seeking revenge for last night's beat-down.

End to end action for opening frame until Kemptville made a statement at 12:07 when Guy from behind net to Row across to Adam Alavi missing initial open side, but recovered rebound to slam it home for PPG. Kemptville would strike again at 7:12 as Beauparlant below the circle to Titus to launch from top and Cameron Bisson

Final frame intensified as Brockville made an aggressive shove to keep them within striking distance. Henry Johnson was pulled at 1:15 to initiate the extra man attack to obtain tie to force OT. Braves called TO at :58 to layout attack plan, but Kemptville special team dug in and never allowed an SOG. With the Braves buzzing the net, 73's decided to slow their momentum down with TO of their

own at :13. Our boy's picked up an insurance goal as the puck repelled off the crossbar over the line, the stopper redirected it into play without a whistle. The goal judge hit the light, but waived off and also requested consultation to know avail. Realty score should be 3-1.

Cameron Bisson receives Mark's Work Warehouse Award for his aggressive play and go-ahead marker.

Little Rocks take 1st place

North Grenville Little Rocks takes 1st in the 25th annual Ran Wylie Memorial tournament at Winchester Curling Club . L-R Owen Yateman - second, Amanda Leang - skip, Noah Yateman - vice and Gillian Umbach, lead (making her debut in her first bonspiel). The tournament was full, with 12 teams competing from Huntley, Morrisburg, Prescott, Winchester, RCMP, Metcalfe, Manotick and North Grenville.

8

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Say it with flowers this Valentines Day! 301 Rideau Street, Kemptville

Regular Store Hours: Mon.- Fri. 8 to 8, Sat. - 8 to 6, Sun. 9 to 6

613.258.3014

Prices effective: Friday, February 12 to Thursday, February 18, 2016 “We reserve the right to limit quantities to reasonable family requirements”

February 10, 2016

9

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times Merrickville/Wolford 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. 13

TIMES The Voice of Merrickville/Wolford

Municipalities vulnerable to insurance claims The accident happened in 2008. A 20-year old man, driving an SUV in Ottawa, went through a red light and collided with an OC Transpo bus at Heron and Riverside at around 2 o’clock in the morning. The driver, who had a blood-alcohol level nearly three times the legal limit for a fully licensed driver, was killed, along with two of his passengers, both 19 years old.

Two other passengers were injured. They had spent the night drinking in a number of pubs, and got into the car with the driver who only had a G2 licence, which disqualified him from driving with any alcohol in his system.

The two surviving passengers sued the pubs in which they had been drinking, the City of Ottawa (who own OC Transpo) and the estate of the dead driver. Last week, a court found the City 20% responsible for the accident and awarded one claimant $2.1 million, and the other $200,000. The reason the City was 20% responsible was because the bus was going 66 kilometres an hour in a 60 kph zone, and the driver had glanced away from the road as he approached the intersection to check his mirrors.

The bus driver was a 27-year veteran of OC Transpo.

It may seem farcical that two young people would gain so much from getting into a car with a very drunk friend, who ran a red light and caused the death of himself and two friends, but that is what happens under a policy called Joint and Several Liability, which states that all parties found in any way “responsible” for an accident are liable to claims. If other parties to the case cannot pay, then bodies like the City of Ottawa are required to pay

the full amount of the award granted by the courts. In this case, the driver’s insurance payout was reduced from $1 million to $200,000 because he was drunk. The City of Ottawa had to pay $2.3 million altogether because the bus, going through a green light in snowy conditions, was possibly just 6 kilometres over the speed limit.

The Ottawa case is only the latest in a very long list in which municipalities have been included in insurance claims in the belief that they have “deep pockets” and can afford to pay these awards. In one case, involving Peterborough County, an award was given against them of $20 million and their premiums doubled overnight. The Association of Municipalities of Ontario [AMO] estimated that municipalities in Ontario would pay an increase of $180 million in insurance premiums: that is an increase, not the total amount.

AMO President, Gary McNamara, speaking to the annual conference in Toronto last year, said: “We all know that joint and several liability is a major concern for Ontario municipalities. We were told [by Ontario] that it would be fixed – we were working together on it. Then there was an about face and we were told to expect nothing. The problem remains, and grows”.

This is a major issue for the province, as other parts of the country have done away with Joint & Several Liability. But the Ontario Government treat it as “an emotional issue”, according to United Counties of Leeds & Grenville Warden, David Gordon.

“The province has blinders on. The Minister says: ‘We have to protect the people’,

Discover a trove of historic homes

but the province won’t cover the liability. The Eastern Ontario Wardens Conference is involved, AMO is involved, all of us are concerned about the impacts. It is such a serious situation. And it’s coming to a municipality near you.”

The fallacy that municipalities have deep pockets that can cope with these insurance claims has to be faced by the province and the courts, according to the Warden. Municipalities like Merrickville-Wolford simply cannot deal with such a hit on their budgets, but, at the same time, there is almost nothing they can do to guard against claims. As David Gordon says: “We can’t protect ourselves. If an accident occurs on one of the municipal roads, even if those involved are driving through, if its your road, you’re responsible.

There are only two municipalities in the United Counties that could survive [the Peterborough] award: North Grenville and Brockville”.

This requires municipalities to provide as much insurance coverage as possible, and as far as their budgets allow. However, it may be impossible to know for sure if coverage is adequate. “Peterborough thought they had enough insurance, but they didn’t”, explains the Warden.

“People may wonder why we have so much insurance. It’s ridiculous. If the judge says ‘It’s $100 million, $200 million’, then that’s what you have to pay. It is the one person sitting on the bench that’s making these decisions. The judges have to wake up and say this is ridiculous.”

It is expected that this year’s AMO conference in August will once again raise the matter with the Minister and Premier.

At the Tuesday, February 23 public lecture, Janet Glaves will speak about the historic homes outside the Village of Merrickville at the Royal Canadian Legion, 223 Main St. W, Merrickville at 7 pm.

In 2006, volunteers from the Merrickville and District Historical Society began, under the guiding hand of Janet Glaves, to document and photograph historic homes outside the Village of Merrickville. Janet will also have the information books created throughout the project available for consultation.

February 10, 2016

SAVE 25% off the purchase of all used LP’s. Coupon void if altered.

Valid at both Vinyl Destination locations until February 29, 2016

2 Great Locations!

107 Brock St. W., Merrickville, 194 King St. W., Brockville

Phone: 647.225.8815 VINTAGE LP’S, T’SHIRTS email: rob@vinyldestination.ca AND TURNTABLES www.vinyldestination.ca

New Horizon Club February News The New Horizon Club will be celebrating February with two lively and fun activities. Wednesday, February 10 will be a Valentine Party with Karaoke. Come dressed in your favourite red and white outfit or as your favourite artist and volunteer to test your talent. Keep an eye out for Elvis. Fun for all - both participants and audience.

Applause please.

On Wednesday, February 24, we will bring an old fashioned carnival with fortune telling, hugging booth, snake oil peddler, balloon darts, etc.

Both events will be held at the Burritt's Rapids Community Hall at 2 pm.

New members are welcome. For information about

membership, call Janet at 613-269-2737. For program details, call Kim at 613-2581780.

s e c i g r P t Bes Framin Canal Gallery & Frame Shop for February 10, 2016

10

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Habitat for Humanity at work again

Habitat for Humanity is setting to work in North Grenville once more. The non-profit agency that builds houses for families who couldn’t normally afford them has announced that they will be starting construction of their next home this year. A new home will be built at 430 County Road 25, Oxford Mills. The plans are for a three-bedroom house, and the Habitat office will begin to hand out applications as soon as they are approved. Anyone interested in applying for the new home can contact the office by email at admin@habitat1000islands.org if you have questions or are interested in receiving an application when they are available.

Habitat is eager to find volunteers willing to help with the build, so if you find

that prospect appealing, send an e-mail.

Habitat for Humanity Thousand Islands is also planning to open a second ReStore, and this one will be located in our community.

The agency is taking over part of the former Farm All building on Hwy. 43 in Kemptville, and the new store will be modelled closely after the original store on Highway 29 in Brockville. The store should be open by mid-February once renovations on the 4,000-square-foot warehouse are complete. The Brockville location has been so popular that it was running out of space.

Once open, the new ReStore in Kemptville will have a similar selection of building material, supplies, kitchens and furniture. The goal is to

have the two stores generating enough revenue to build an additional two Habitat homes each year.

Habitat for Humanity is looking for volunteers for the new location to help with customer service, receiving and sorting, kitchen cabinet collection and other roles.

The agency relies heavily on the goodwill of others donating their time and gently used items. Habitat is also looking for more contractors and renovators to donate material and inventory. To get involved, phone 613-342-3521.

At the Toronto Interior Design Show, Habitat for Humanity Canada presented a human-scaled house made out of 38,000 plastic bricks.

This creation was realized by a team of volunteers directly on site and is part of the organization's Brick for Brick campaign. By donating a virtual brick for the price of $25 each, you can contribute to raising funds dedicated to the construction of real houses. The goal is not only to provide well-needed housing to families in need, it is also to restore some stability in the lives of the children affected by the lack of a decent home, by giving them a safe and appropriate place to thrive within their community. To donate to the Brick for Brick campaign, go to: www.habitat.ca/brickforbrick

Big Sky Ranch’s Lena the Llama tells her story

For Advertising rates please contact Gord at gord@ngtimes.ca or call 613 258 6402

Submitted by Pam Owen

Girls Guides receive Jumpstart funding

Canadian Tire Kemptville and Jumpstart help Oxford Mills Sisterhood of Guiding purchase outdoor equipment and winter camping supplies. Mr. Frank Hoffman presented them with a cheque for $2,520.

1st row - Hailey Mitchell-Massey, Chloe Reid, Kaitlyn McDonald, Ruby Ann Robinson, Keeley Brown, Frank Hoffman, 2nd row - Kendra McDonald, Talya Blakey, Aislinn Forrester, Cheyenne Morris, Rachel Grant; Brianna Mitchell-Massey, Sophia Blakey, Amanda Leang; 3rd row - Emma Code, Gabby Blakey, Laura Huntley, Kristen Wood, Justine Gardner submitted by Mary-Anne Leang February 10, 2016

11

Hello, my name is Lena.

I am a Llama, which is part of the Camelid Family. I am closely related to Camels (but have no humps), and to Alpacas. Us Llamas can vary in shape and size as well as colour patterns. We are quite friendly and are extremely curious. Being well socialized and easily domesticated, we enjoy being in a halter, so are often used as pack animals in high mountain areas – mostly in South America. As we became more domesticated and our reputation spread, we began to be used for other purposes. In the 1980’s, we began to be used as livestock guards by farmers and ranchers. Although not every Llama is suited to the job of guard, most of us are dependable and a viable alternative as non-lethal methods of guarding. Usually we do best on our own rather than being in a group of guard Llamas.

My personal story has a rather sad beginning. As you may know, animals at Big Sky Ranch Sanctuary arrive for many reasons.

Neglect, abuse, age are all personal tragedies for us and will have a negative impact on our short lives. I was kept in a windowless barn in very unhygienic conditions with two other Llamas. All three of us were rescued and brought to the Sanctuary to rest and recover. The two boys managed to settle in right away and were adopted by a gentleman farmer looking for help guarding his sheep. I was shy and timid, trust was a new concept for me.

Andy spent a lot of time with me, for weeks and months he and the other volunteers treated me with gentleness and respect. I was offered many veggie treats, but my trust was not strong enough yet, so I refused them all. Finally, the day came, I accepted a carrot as it was again so gently offered! They never gave up

hope in me and I gained a bit of trust in them. I continue to live here at Big Sky Ranch Sanctuary, it will be my permanent home. I am safe here, a place where I can be loved and cared for. Andy and the other volunteers call me elegant and beautiful, they continue to care for me with a gentleness that continues to build my trust. “It is a wonderful thing, to earn a gentle soul’s trust.” On the other hand, I have shown Andy and the volunteers that love and time can bring joy back into a Llama’s life.

If anyone is interested in helping the Sanctuary help the animals, please go to our website www.bigskyranch. ca to learn how. We are always welcome to donations and monetary funds can be spread a long way to helping each animal have an opportunity for a better life.

Cases like mine are sadly all to frequent, and I consider myself fortunate indeed to have ended up with the caring people at Big Sky Ranch.

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

COMMUNITY EVENTS

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Ale 5. Verse writers 10. Overtake 14. Rant 15. A drama set to music 16. Countertenor 17. Colored part of an eye 18. Video entertainment 20. Invigorate 22. A cowboy movie 23. Put clothing on 24. Tall and thin 25. Next-to-last 32. Chills and fever 33. Unit of weight for gems 34. Explosive 37. Taps 38. A nine-piece musical group

The Voice of North Grenville

39. Lion sound 40. Commercials 41. Line dance 42. Relative magnitudes 43. Compulsively 45. Scatter 49. Actress Lupino 50. Queen of the jungle?

53. Melancholy 57. Desperate 59. Cocoyam 60. Consider 61. Energize 62. Start over 63. Countercurrent 64. Secret meeting 65. Back talk DOWN 1. French cheese

Feb11

2. Acquire deservedly 3. Wicked 4. Ashes 5. Strong 6. Not closed 7. Snake-like fish 8. An old spelling of "True" 9. Rescue 10. Noodles 11. Extraterrestrial 12. It delivers babies?

13. Lad 19. A small island 21. Volumes (abbrev.)

25. Dad 26. Quaint outburst 27. Cashews and almonds 28. Graphic symbols 29. A skin disease 30. Districts 31. Make lace 34. Carry 35. Found on a finger 36. "Iliad" city 38. Wealthy person (British slang) 39. They lay waste 41. Cringe 42. Go on horseback 44. Quiet 45. Skid 46. Clocked 47. Lassoed 48. Foe 51. Sodium chloride 52. Blend 53. Nights before 54. Bright thought 55. Contributes 56. Murmurs 58. Old World vine

Feb 12 Feb 13

Feb 14

Feb 14

Feb 17

Feb 17

Feb 20

Mar 11

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

Youngsters of Yore, 1:30 pm, Library Program Room. Guest speaker: Doug Hughes - Travelling the Danube.

Valentine Pot Roast supper at Leslie Hall, St. James Anglican Church. Social hour from 5 pm, supper at 6 pm. Tickets $20 (cash bar).

For tickets call 613-258-7049.

Legion Valentine's Day Dinner/Dance. Roast Pork Dinner at 6:30 pm.

Dance 7:30-11:30 pm. Entertainment by "THIS OLD HEART AND THE COUNTRY COMRADES". Advance tickets $25 per person until February 10 or $30 at the door. Tickets from Legion Bar Staff (613-258-5734), Lorena Miller (613-258-9065), or Marilyn Aldus (613-986-1378). Public Welcome.

Sweetheart Brunch in honour of Harry and Sheila Pratt. Enjoy a wonderful brunch and toe-tapping Celtic and Country live music at the NG Municipal Centre, 8:30-1 pm. Tickets available the Scotiabank and at the door. $10 Adults, $5 Children, free for kids under 6. All proceeds go to support local charities and community initiatives. Presented by the Knights of Columbus Council 5333.

Oxford Mills Guides Valentine’s Day Tea, 1-4 pm at St. John's United Church. Come enjoy tea and cookies and watch a history of guiding skit.

All are welcome, goodwill donations welcome in support of their fundraising efforts for their trip to Toronto Zoo and Casa Loma.

Kemptville Horticultural Society, 7:30 pm at the Kemptville Pentecostal Church. Guest Speaker: Tom Bryant from Floral Design Landscaping. Guests are welcome to come & meet fellow gardeners in the Kemptville area & to find our more about the Horticultural Society.

"Listening to your Gut & Keeping it Happy". Free Talk with Nutrition Coach Carol Pillar, R.H.N. 215 Sanders St. Kemptville, 6 7:30pm. Hosted by Heather's Healthy Harvest. Please register at 613215-0353 or at wholesumapproach.com/contact.

'Love' Messy Church, St. John's United Church, 4-6pm. Celebrate our ‘LOVE’ Session with songs, a bible story, crafts and a meal. All are welcome. For more information contact Cassi at (613) 258-3259 or stjohnsk@magma.ca Legion St Patrick's Day Party. Dinner at 6:30 pm. Entertainment by the Kemptville Pipes and Drums, followed at 7:30-11:30 pm. by the Montreal based Celtic Band "THE KITCHEN PARTY", Advance tickets $30 per person until March 7 or $35 at the door. Tickets from Legion Bar Staff (613-258-5734), Lorena Miller (613-258-9065), or Marilyn Aldus (613-986-1378). Public Welcome.

Weekly and recurring events Tues

Wed

SUDOKU Easy

Medium

Thurs

Hard

Fri

Solution to last week’s Crossword

Sat

Sun M,W,F Tue-Fri February 10, 2016

12

BNI Networking Group Breakfast, Grenville Mutual Insurance Building, 380 Colonnade Drive, 7- 8:30 am. Call 613-918-0430 for more information.

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. Check our website for more information on outings and upcoming events. ngphotoclub.ca Klub 67 Euchre every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month, 1:15 pm.

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.

Klub 67 Euchre every second and fourth Wed. of the month, 1:15 pm, St. John's United Church downstairs. Everyone welcome, $5.00.

Kemptville Legion cribbage night, 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. Start time 7 pm. All welcome. Come and play for fun.

Bridge - St. John’s United Church, 6:45 pm. Cost $5, partner preferred but not necessary. 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.

Kemptville Concert Band.7 pm at North Grenville D.H.S. Come join us for a great evening of music. Wind instruments and percussionists of all levels welcome! Contact: dennis843@gmail.com Twice The Fun Games (206 Prescott Street) is your host for Game Night, 6-10 pm, 2nd and 4th Friday every month. Bring your favourite game or borrow one from their library. All ages welcome The Kerith Debt Freedom Centre. Confidential coaches will help you get out of debt and stay out of debt. Free, open on the 2nd and 4th Sat. of the month from 9:30-11:30 at the NG Community Church.

Appointments can be made at kdfc.ca or by calling 613-258-4815 x103.

Kemptville Legion breakfast, 8 - 10 am third Saturday of every month. Adults $5. Children under 12 $3. All welcome.

Twice The Fun Games (206 Prescott Street) selects a game for their "Learn to Play" event. 1-4 pm. No experience needed.

Kemptville and Area Walking Group, Municipal Centre - Early birds: 8 am, others 8:30 am. Contact: Eva 258-4487.

Senior’s Fitness Classes, free of charge, 10-11 am at the Pentecostal Church, Hwy 43 west. Male or female over age 50. Wear running shoes, bring water and light handweights (2-3 lbs) if you have them. www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

CLASSIFIEDS

First 10 words are FREE for North Grenville and Merrickville/Wolford Residents.

Extra Words: 50 cents a word. Email production@ngtimes.ca SERVICES CFSC $ CRFSC Courses and exams Steve Hoy 613.258.6162 2shoy@xplornet.com Weight Loss Coach “I did it... you can too!” Wendy Moore (613)558-4933. Free consultation.

The Plumb”Mur” Plus Bathroom PLUS more. Murray 613.519.5274 nmmuir@gmail. com Mobile Foot Care - TOES IN NEED 613.858.4383 Eavestrough cleaning, repairs and installation. Free estimate 613.295.0300 House cleaning, interior and exterior, any odd jobs. Free estimate. 613.295.0300 Restore your Health - pain, injuries, digestion, breathing Kemptville 613.799.3315 TheBowenApproach.ca Frame Local!

Country Ways Custom Picture framing 613.322.6484 dam5@bell.net Snowplowing: Residential Driveways Call Robert Leach for estimate 613.222.2292 Dance classes for adults & seniors. Line, Jazz, Tap, Aerobics, Ballroom. The workshop Dance Studio 215 Sanders St. 613.868.9062 NO TIME TO COOK? We’ll take care of it! Homemade frozen meals; lunch & family sizes, muffins, soups, dessets and more! For more information go to www.lamyriade.ca.

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

Certified Packer can help you prepare for your move. Cinderella 613.859.4644 PIANO LESSONS for everyone. All styles, all ages. 613 324.0382 www.kemptvillemusic.com SEWING: Weddings to alterations at Stonehouse sewing.

Call Sharon 613 224 3182 Rural Home Care servicesAffordable, personal, professional & experienced care for your loved one. 613.868.0356 FREE DRUM LESSON!!!

Professional drummer offering FREE trial lessons...no obligation! 613 298 5913 www.drumhead.ca 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 HANDY MAN specializing in renovations & house staging.

We do it all CALL 613.294.2416 MESS “S.O.S.!” sarahlystiuk@gmail.com Free monthly articles straight to your inbox!

You Name It, I Can Sew It. Call Rhonda at 258-5248 MR & MRS CLEAN residential/ commercial cleaning. Mrandmrsclean613@gmail.com, 613867-2184 HOUSECLEANING- Every working Mother and Father needs a House Wife. Sandi 613-2197277 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

SNOW REMOVAL: stairs, walkways, small driveways, roofs. Call Al 613.258.3847 or 613.295.0300

Complete Home Property Clean up: house cleaning, dump runs, etc. Call Al’s Clean up services 613.258.3847 613.295.0300

Call Cinderella to look after your Alzhiemer or Parkinson loved one 613.859.4644

Rock My House music lessons in fiddle, piano, drums and more. 613 258 5656

Lessons piano, guitar, ukulele, group singing and more. Your place or mine.

613.720.3531

Handyman/Contractor with years of experience. No job too big or small. Unlimited refer-

February 10, 2016

ences, call for free estimate 613.791.8597 YOGA for everyone. Wed and Thurs., at YIG. Call 258-9902 Cindy’s House Cleaning.

Need help? I’m your gal. Also will walk your dog. Call 613 258 1568.

Language Learning North Grenville classes starting the week of February 15. French (junior/intermediate), Spanish (beginner level 1 & 2) and Inuktitut (language and culture).

Two hours per week for 8 weeks $195 www.alkeventmanagement.ca anne@alkeventmanagement.ca 613.853.8308

Renovated Ground Floor Office 1,900 sqft, 200 Sanders St. Kemptville 613.795.2389 Kemptville, 512 Clothier, 2 bedroom apartment in a seniors building, $863 + utilities, no smoking, no pets. 613 294 6819 2 bdr attached home for rent $1150 includes water, heat & 4 appliances. Call 613 296 5906

WANTED Senior needs old car batteries for making weights. Call 613 258 6254

FOR SALE

FOR RENT 1 Bdrm walk up, downtown Kemptville, fridge & stove incl. $780/mth plus Hydro. Call 2584760 Merrickville 2 storey, non smoking, recently renovated 1 bedroom apartment + loft, 2 bathrooms, hardwood floors.

5 appliances. Electric wall & baseboard heaters. Dedicated water & electric meters. 1 parking space. 613.608.6033 Merrickville Ground Floor, non smoking, recently renovated 1 bedroom apartment, hardwood floors. 4 appliances.

Electric wall heaters. Dedicated water & electric meters. 1 parking space 613.608.6033 Furnished Room For Rent in Oxford Mills, $650 a month. Call 613.294.7420 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 Room for rent in downtown Kemptville within walking distance of all amenities. Heat, hydro, internet incl. $500. Call 618 878 4738.

Commercial space for rent 513-b Prescott St. All Inclusive $750/month, Available Oct. 1 613.794.3551 Old Town Kemptville 28 Clothier St. Commercial retail space 650 sq. ft. avail Oct 1st 613.295.0552

Selling double North Trail snowmobile trailer. $600 firm. 613.258.5769 Ground Hyland beef for sale, Ex lean, locally raised.

613.269.2439 Nordic wood stove, used one season, good for small area.

Asking $550. 258.1246 Electric wheel chair, Model stormtdx4 invacare. In good running order. $400.

613.258.6254 2011 John Deer Tractor JD 2720 Tractor, JD 46 Backhoe with 16 & 9 buckets, JD 200CX front end loader. Used only 123 hours for personal landscaping, no winters. Asking $27,500.00 or OBO. 613.215.0674 Quality Grass Horse Hay 4x5 rounds Jon 613.227.3650 5 PC. PEAVEY DRUM SET w/highhat $350.00 O.B.O 613.808.4725 613.258.6413 Firewood-Hardwood cut, split and delivered, $100/cord, Min. 3 chords. Call Peter at 258-5504 or 613-913-0810

The Voice of North Grenville

Soluble Fibre and Heart Health Fibre is important for heart health. There are two types of fibre, insoluble fibre help keeps you regular and soluble fibre can help lower your cholesterol. It does this by binding with cholesterol and fat in your diet and getting rid of it in your stool. Lower blood cholesterol level may help decrease your risk of heart disease. However, many people only get half the amount of fibre they need each day.

Soluble fibre is found in some fruits like apples and oranges, vegetables like carrots, okra and eggplant, grains like oats and barley, and legumes like beans and lentils. There is no specific amount of soluble fibre that you should have in your diet. Instead, focus on total fibre (soluble and insoluble). Adult men should get 38 grams of total fibre and adult women should get 25 grams of fibre every day. If you need to lower your cholesterol, aim for at least 10 grams of soluble fibre per day.

Getting more fibre in general will likely mean you will get more soluble fibre. You can add more fibre by adding lentils or beans to soups, casseroles and salads. Try a bowl of warm oatmeal, topped with pear slices for breakfast. Enjoy cut up carrots and cucumbers with a low fat dip as a snack. When grocery shopping, compare food labels and choose foods with at least 2 to 4 grams of fibre per serving. Focus on foods like vegetables and fruit, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds to help boost your fibre intake.

For more information, you can visit www.healthunit.org, connect with us on Facebook and Twitter or call the Health Action Line at 1-800-660-5853.

Medical Officer of Health Annual Report Dr. Stewart reported on the progress made in 2015 on the four health goals – Healthy Infant/Child/Youth Growth and Development, Healthy Living for all Residents, Health Equity, and Healthy Environments. She also reported on the organizational goals of effective leadership, planning, processes, client service, partnerships, and staff development and support. The report will be available on the health unit website under the Board of Health.

In 2016, three provincial initiatives will have a significant impact on the Health Unit. First, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care report “Patients First” has stated that all public health units in Ontario will now receive their provincial funding through the LHIN and will report their provincial accountability indicators to the LHIN. There will also be closer ties between primary care and the health unit. The Board of Health will continue to oversee programs and the health unit budget. Second, the Ontario Public Health Standards that guide programs and services are being reviewed, and third, the food premises regulations are being reviewed.

The Board will receive regular updates on these initiatives during the year.

Information session on new French Catholic School

The community is invited to attend a special information session on Monday, February 8, 2016, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, at the North Grenville Curling Club in Kemptville, where there will be an information night concerning the new French Catholic School (CECCE) that will be Firewood-Mixed hardwood opening up in September 2016.

Firewood-Mixed hardwood $100 per cord delivered. Call Charlie at 613-989-2768. $100 per cord delivered. Call John at 613-227-3650

HELP WANTED Experienced Roofer needed, for spring, must have own equipment and truck Please Call or text 613-8945210”

KEMPTVILLE COMPUTERS REPAIRS, UPGRADES, VIRUS REMOVAL, NETWORKING & MORE! WE FIX IT, OR YOU DON’T PAY! (613) 218 5322 WWW.KEMPTVILLECOMPUTERS.COM

13

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

North Grenville’s

Senior Times Let’s Connect…

Here we are in February in the most changeable weather! This past week, there was freezing rain and then record high temperatures.

Last February was the coldest on record in over a century.

From beautiful sun and warm weather earlier this week, to snow again. The days are getting longer and thoughts of spring are abound.

As the snow is falling again, I’m looking through seed catalogues with my daughters Tracy and Sarah.

It is wonderful when they come to visit. We are going to order some non-GMO heritage seeds this year. The

write-up on each type of seed is a history lesson. One fun seed we are going to try is a French Heirloom Pumpkin that grows in the shape of Cinderella’s coach. The traditional flattened coach with character, not the modernized round coach.

Trying something new can be very exciting, and possibly a tad bit daunting as well. I find both Sarah and Tracy readily try new things.

I, on the other hand, can find a myriad of excuses of why I can’t just now. I am going to opt for a ‘just try it’ attitude this year. We can get into a routine of appointments and activities that fill up our days.

We need to stop periodically and ask ourselves what we want to do or try.

There are many activities here at the KDHSI, both in the Activity Room and on the main level in the Cheryl J. Brown Centre. KDHSI is fully accessible; and, I have heard that the staff, volunteers

and clients attending the activities are very welcoming! I invite everyone out for a tour if you haven’t been here yet.

An exciting event coming in April is “Gentle Voices”, a wonderful show featuring the delightful “HummingBirds” our very own “Sing’n’, Swing’n Seniors” and the “Uke-a Ladies & Gentlemen”! There will familiar songs such as ‘Happy Trails’, ’Yellow Bird’, ‘Blue Moon’ and ‘Deep Purple’. Mark your calendars for Friday April 15 at 7:30 pm, or Sunday April 17 at 2 pm. The show will be held at the Kemptville Pentecostal Church. Tickets are only $10 each and can be purchased here at KDHSI or at Brewed Awakenings, 2868 Hwy 43 (where the coffee is delicious!). I hope to see you there.

This is a fundraiser for KDHSI. Each year we have to raise over $50,000 through donations and fundraising events. On behalf of the cli-

ents, volunteers, Board and staff I would like to thank the community for your generous support. The activities and services provided by KDHSI continue to grow. Together we are making a difference!

Until next time Susan Susan Smith, Executive Director Kemptville & District Home Support (KDHSI) For Advertising rates please contact Gord at gord@ngtimes.ca or call 613 258 6402

The North Grenville Times is Locally Owned and Operated

Hereditary Chief of the Chippewas visit YoY

Alex Akiwenzie, Hereditary Chief of the Chippewas of Cape Croker, Georgian Bay, was guest speaker at Thursday's meeting of the Youngsters of Yore in the Talman Room of the Noremberg Public Library. Alex and Bill Kilfoyle worked together at the Department of Indian Affairs in Ottawa. Chief Akiwenzie's remarks focused on Respect for Elders.

February 10, 2016

14

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

18th Annual North Grenville Community

SUNDAY

SWEETHEART

SUNDAY SUNDAY

BRUNCH

2016

Presented by Knights of Columbus

North Grenville Municipal Centre

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT 8:30AM - 12:30PM 285 County Road 44, Kemptville

Honouring Harry and Sheila Pratt Under 6 FREE

Adults $10

Children 6­11 $5

Tickets

Cash Draw!

at the door or at

"Celebrate Our Community Working Together" All proceeds will go to support our local charities and community initiatives

300 Colonnade Drive, Kemptville 613.258.5961 Scotiabank will match all onsite ticket sales with a donation

Holy Cross Council 5333

Knights of Columbus

the north grenville

TIMES February 10, 2016

15

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

For the love of art

Sin, Sex and the CIA - KPI’s Spring Play

by Monica Cleland Sin, Sex and The CIA - written by playwrights Michael and Susan Parker, and directed by Steve Wendt, is Kemptville Players' spring offering to you April 28 - 30 at 7:30 and May 1 at 2 pm at the Urbandale Theatre at the Municipal Centre. The play is about a small island nation with huge oil reserves, and a meeting to discuss said reserves. Of course there are people trying to safeguard this meeting, but unfortunately their enthusiasm for their job outweighs their talents, leading to some unexpected consequences...and hilarity.

In this article, and over the next few weeks, we will take an in-depth look at the characters in the play, and the actors who portray them.

This week, the spotlight is on Laura Drover. She portrays Ranger Don - a small gem of a role in this play.

Laura is one of our wonderful "newer" actors. She moved to North Grenville in August 2011 and credits her partner for "catapulting" her into auditioning for a KPI play in December 2011, by jokingly suggesting she put her "drama queen skills" back into action...elsewhere!

The rest, they say, is history.

Although Laura did get the role she tried out for, the play was never cast. However, she went on to portray many roles since, including: a black-eyed rough and tumble games mistress (gym teacher) in "From Five to Five Thirty" (April, 2012); the Executioner of Sir Thomas More in "The Actor's Nightmare”, performed at the adjudicated Eastern Ontario Drama League One Act Festival (November, 2012), for which she received both a nomination in the ‘Smaller Supporting Roles’ category, as well as a ‘nod’ from the Adjudicator for risk taking in cross-gender acting; a quirky and secretive bookworm in the murder mystery "The Eternal Cruise" (February, 2013); a young manager in "Box Office" (November, 2013); a police officer in "Rumors" (November, 2014); and a drug-running party-girl in the re-make of "The Eternal Cruise (February, 2015).

Laura has a knack of handling any character we can hand her, to which anyone who came out to our radio play "The 39 Steps" in May, 2015 can attest. She portrayed eight different ones in that play alone: no small feat, I can assure you. Her latest appearance at the Municipal

INCHESTER PRINT & STATIONERY

The Voice of North Grenville

Centre was as the loveable but ditzy Fiona, as well as the two Christmas spirits, in "Bob's Your Elf" (November, 2015).

Laura has also played the role of a spaced-out hippie in "At The Border" for the Masonic Lodge (January, 2016) and will be in the same again for the North Gower Winter Carnival this February 5.

Laura views character development as the underpinning of good theatre and believes that only through interplay and engagement with an audience can the true emotional nature of each actor's character be revealed.

She says that theatre provides her with an imaginative opportunity to expand her "inner self" in any direction that suits the "telling of the story".

She sees herself as a mosaic of all the characters she has ever had the joy of playing, and also of those she has ‘yet to become’, and states that these roles allow her to experience her personal world from broadened perspectives.

As a cancer survivor who is grateful for EVERY moment lived, Laura's tagline on all of her cast bios reflects her spirit: "So, laugh at her or laugh with her, but for Heaven's sake - laugh! It's good for your soul..."

by Hilary Thomson Lindsay Melnick’s grade 11/12 art class at Saint Michael Catholic High School is full of talented students and Lauren Norenberg is no exception.

“I’ve always been drawing since I was young,” Lauren says, now in grade 12, “and when we got Ms. Melnick in grade 10, I really liked art class with her. We got to try all sorts of different projects.”

In the grade 11/12 class, the students are able to pick what they want to work on, using the techniques and skills they learned in previous years, providing that they finish a certain number of projects by the end of the semester. They also have a culminating project that counts for 20% of their grade.

For Lauren’s final project, she created three portraits of her friend and classmate, Nieve. “Instead of the “Three faces of Eve,” it’s the “Three faces of Nieve,” she says laughing, harkening back to a 1950s movie about a woman with multiple personalities.

“I thought it might be nice to draw someone I know and Nieve has a pretty expressive face.”

Lauren is planning on applying to architecture and industrial design at Carleton University for next year. She says her project will be a good addition to her portfolio. She has used an interesting technique called crosshatching, using lines to create shading on the face. “You have to be patient with yourself,” she says.

For Lauren art is an outlet, and Ms. Melnick has created a space that is always open for students to come and work on their projects. “When you’re stressed you can come into the art room and relax by working on your artwork. It’s probably my favourite class to come to.”

WINCHESTER PRINT & STATIONERY

WINCHESTER PRINT & STATIONERY

February 10, 2016

WINCHESTER PRINT & STATIONERY

16

www.ngtimes.ca