Community News 012012

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Serving the Mapleton Community

Community News Volume 45 Issue 03

Drayton, Ontario

1 Year GIC - 1.90% 3 Year GIC - 2.25% 5 Year GIC - 2.70% Daily Interest 1.75%

Friday, January 20, 2012

Success at last? Council to meet with CN by David Meyer MAPLETON TWP. - If at first you don’t succeed ... That could be an adage Mapleton Township council can live by when it comes to getting the attention of a major company. After months of attempts to reach officials at CN Railway for a meeting over Conestogo River erosion problems in Drayton, chief administrative officer Patty Sinnamon told council on Jan. 10 she is in the process of arranging a meeting with CN officials. The meeting, which she hoped would take place this week, was to consider concerns brought to council’s attention by councillor Andy Knetsch several months ago. He has fears about the abutment on the Conestogo River that is still the property of the railway company. The banks around the abutment are eroding quickly and he sees that as a major safety issue. Sinnamon said scheduling the meeting may not be easy because three parties are

involved: the township, CN and the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA). The GRCA, too, has been trying to meet with CN officials about concerns over flooding, but Sinnamon said besides possible channeling in the river, its officials are concerned about silt washing out from the banks near the old railway abutment and again in other places along the riverbank that is owned by CN. “It is related to the abutment,” Sinnamon said of those other erosion problems. That abutment is about 60 feet high and a recent visit before the weather turned colder showed a steady trickle of gravel rolling down from the banks into the river. Township officials believe some work in the river could prevent major floods that have been occurring in downtown Drayton over the past several years. Sinnamon said she sent emails to several CN officials before she finally obtained a response.

Decision on turbines could be made at Jan. 24 meeting by David Meyer MAPLETON TWP. Council here met behind closed doors again to consider what it will do about last month’s approval of a wind turbine project near Arthur. Residents opposing NextEra Energy’s Conestogo Wind Energy Centre southwest of Arthur are hoping the township will take part in an appeal that would result in the project approval being fought on two fronts. NextEra wants to build a 10-turbine, 22-megawatt wind farm southwest of Arthur. Residents in the area have been opposing the project almost

since it was announced three years ago. Preserve Mapleton Incorporated has already filed an appeal of the Ministry of Environment’s approval of the project to an environmental tribunal. There will be a hearing in Kitchener on Jan. 20 to determine which parties will take part in the tribunal and what issues will be considered. The formal hearing is set for Feb. 20 and has an extra day allotted if required. The residents’ group is hoping council will challenge the turbine project’s approval in the courts. Continued on page 3

Generous sponsorship - Drayton Kinsmen Alfred Rumph, Tyler Struyk and John-Henry Klaassen present a cheque to Deb Mantler, president of the Drayton Skating Club. The Kinsmen sponsored the skating club’s annual “Fun Day” in December. submitted photo

Council could be using laptops by February by David Meyer MAPLETON TWP. Instead of shuffling paper, councillors here could be doing some scrolling at their council meetings starting in February. It is one of several technology moves council is making heading into 2012. Just prior to Christmas council voted to obtain laptops for councillors. Since councillor Jim Curry and Mayor Bruce Whale already have them, the township is supplying three councillors with computers. Council had been reluctant to spend the money on them, even though it was allocated in the 2011 budget. But the need for technological improvements won. On Jan. 10, Curry asked

finance director Mike Givens if programs will be loaded onto his computer. Givens said that is the case. “We bought the software on the assumption we’d put it on your computer,” he said. Councillor Neil Driscoll, who has been reluctant to spend money on laptops, asked if council will include email addresses for council on the machines. He noted the township is soon to launch its new website and said email addresses for councillors should be available so people can contact councillors about various issues. Chief administrative officer Patty Sinnamon told council the township’s new website will be running “in a few weeks.”

Whale told councillors he hopes there can be some training on the new laptops later this month prior to council’s strategic planning meetings. In other technology issues, councillor Andy Knetsch told council it should consider a projection screen. “We need one sooner rather than later,” he said. Currently, council is forced to use a wall of the council chamber for presentations. Whale said a screen purchase could be considered in the budget this year. Curry said rather than a screen, council should consider a monitor. He said if a stand-alone projector is used too often its bulbs burn out and they are expensive to replace. He added a monitor would pro-

duce less noise, too. But Whale noted the township already has a projector. Givens said that one is shared with the fire department. Sinnamon said that machine has been owned by the township “since amalgamation, and we’ve not replaced a bulb yet.” She said the projector was at the fire hall a few weeks ago because council had not been expecting a presentation and had not known it would require a screen. She said all staff has to do is talk to the fire department and it will be available at the township office. Councillor Mike Downey asked if it is worth buying a projector or monitor “when we have one 99.9% of the time.”

Debris, unlicenced vehicles keeping new enforcement officer busy by David Meyer MAPLETON TWP. Residents here apparently take pride in their properties - and take umbrage when neighbours let things slide. The township’s new bylaw enforcement officer Maurita Boyle presented her first report to council on Jan. 10 and detailed the work since she was hired in October. The properties were identified with a number code and no names were used. Boyle made inspections after receiving complaints about the status

of various properties. She currently has 14 ongoing complaints about debris, rubbish and unlicenced vehicles being parked in people’s yards. Mayor Bruce Whale noted that having junk in a yard seems to be the most common complaint by residents, and “it’s nice to see those are getting cleaned up.” Boyle reported that she had worked with six owners who had such things as long grass, noxious weeds and vehicles in the yard. She noted she made “several site visits” with all

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six and those owners have now cleaned up their properties and are in compliance with property standards. In the four cases that are still open, she noted she is working with the owners and will follow up on the complaints to make sure something is done to clean the properties. In one case she delivered a notice of the problem to the property owner and was told tenants are moving in the spring and cleanup will follow. Boyle noted in her report that she was involved in

only three zoning complaints because she had been busy trying to get properties cleaned up prior to bad weather setting in. In one of those, someone is operating a business that is not permitted and she has made several site visits and is working with the owner on paperwork for a zone change. That applicant had until Jan. 12 to complete that paperwork. In another, there was a complain about a business operating that is not permitted and she made several site visits and is still trying to contact the

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owner to discuss property and zoning issues. In the third, she received a complaint about someone operating a retail store in an area zoned for agriculture and she spoke to the owner. Boyle said there was “no sign of a retail store” but the site will be monitored to make sure the owner is in compliance with the zoning. Boyle told council she will be giving quarterly reports on her activities. Councillor Jim Curry asked about business signs in residential areas that are violating the

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township’s sign bylaw. Boyle said it would depend on the size of the sign. Chief administrative officer Patty Sinnamon said people running businesses from their home are permitted a two foot sign on their home. That prompted Curry to ask if a 2 by 3 foot signs placed at the curb is in violation of the bylaw. Boyle said it is. Councillor Andy Knetsch said to Boyle of her report, “I appreciate the work you put into this. It’s very professional.”

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“Practicing does not need to She also liked that it was a program that was tested, tried be long; 10 to 15 minutes a day and true, being taught by more to start,” she said. Ms. Tanis’ creativity shines than 800 teachers to over PAGE TWO The Community News, Friday, January 20, through by 2012 offering several 24,000 students on three different continents and touting extra practice incentives Canadian origins, being found- throughout the year to ensure students attain their musical ed in 1980. MYC’s mission statement goals. Once students have colis to “provide the best quality lected enough stickers on their music education to young chil- “happy practice thermomedren by blending the pleasure ters,” they have a party. This H;DEL7J?EDI to celebrate the 2010 and the joy of music making year, RENOVATIONS students earned with sound instruction.” Olympics, ! 7::?J?EDI + ADDITIONS

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plete students enjoyed an Easter. Theme days are Olympics music class. This planned as well. Throughout the year her past year Ms. Tanis encouraged the students not only to prac- students participate in a tice but also to think of others, Christmas concert, and a spring by practicing for pennies. Once recital and have the option to the pennies were all collected participate in the Palmerston they were donated to Camp Canada Music Week Festival gave the a hard fought wellington cty. - and the 81’s Drayton Music Bucko, for burn victims. 4-2 victory. Goal scorers for Last was a busy Forweekend the upcoming year one she Festival. 81’s wereareCurtis Pinder the Mapleton 81’s, the “Children so receptive isforplanning two newMinto incentives; (2),music Adam Dan three in three days. to thatDejong it makesand sense to awith “Tree ofgames Thanks” incentive Richardson. Assists The Thanksgiving weekend wastime a sucthis medium to spark were their around and use picked up by Whalen as theIncentive” 81’s picked in up five andAndrew develop their acess, “Seed the creativity (2), Mike Lankshear, TJ of a possible six points. On Jan. 13 the 81’s hosted Fergus, Kyle Handsaeme, Abe the Walkerton Capitals, who Herbst, Brent Cochrane and were in need of a win to help Richardson. Durham visited the 81’s them in their quest for the final FITNESS FOR THE for WHOLE FAMILY a Saturday night game in playoff spot. Drayton on Jan. 14. The game was and a chippy 1 Year 6 Month Memberships The Available visitors came out affair, with a12 lotVisit of penalties. and Day Passes thisCircuit game and took a The 81’sFull came out strong Co-ed Gym, 30strong Minute lead to Training the dressing room and tookClasses a 2-0 lead to Ages, the 3-1 for All Personal after one period. dressing room after the first 89 Wellington St. S., DRAYTON Both teams scored two in period. The second was638-2100 N0G 1P0,period (519) a better period for Walkerton, the second to leave Durham www.bodyworksdrayton.ca but the 81’s matched them goal with a 5-3 lead heading into bodyworks@execulink.com for goal and the score after two the third. The 81’s played a strong periods was 4-2. A scoreless third period third period and scored the

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make 5-4 for Drayton. Drayton 7 Missionary 4 theitpast...into tomorrow” Two more Drayton goals by Missionary looked to add to their upset win last week and Dekkers and Mike DeWeerd scored the first goal from the put the game out of reach (assisted by Mark Timmerman, opening face-off. Tim Thalen blasted a shot Robous, VanOostveen and on net and Brandon Murray Mulder). Gift rebound certificatesover available Dekkers nowtaxes has 26 goals, flicked the the just three shyincluded of the regular pads the netminder.St., S. Drayton 21ofWellington Drayton’s Rob DeWeerd season record. 519-638-2001 Floradale 8 Community 6 and Eric Dekkers scored the After a flurry of scoring, the next two goals to take a 2-1 lead. Assists were earned game was tied 3-3 after the first Discover the Joy of MYC with by Dave Mulder and Scott period of play. FREE Summer it Classes! KevinTry Gingrich earned VanOostveen (2). Missionary (Matt Duff an early hat trick early for Community assisted by Tom ChambersSunrise (ages (with 2-4) assists and Chris Huber) and Drayton to Gerald Martin and Rick MYC Classes (ages 3-9) Robous Brubacher), while Floradale (Dekkers from Jerry TM with goals by and Robyn Curry) traded goals To responded register, contact in the second to make the score Brendon Jefferson, Josh Tanis Cowan Brohman and Ryan Martin 3-2 for Drayton. (assisted by Ryan Martin, Tim Drayton padded its lead 519.638.5715 with a powerplay goal by Martin, Leon Metzger and Rod taniscowan.myc@sympatico.ca DeWeerd (from VanOostveen Shantz). Pups the also available second Rick and Rumph) and another by* MusicIn Dekkers (from Rumph and Brubacher and Ryan Freeman scored for Community (assistCurry) for his hat trick. Missionary came back ed by Freeman, Gingrich and with two quick goals by Chris Jamie Martin). But two late Hubers and Dave Scholten goals by Floradale (Jefferson (assists went to Chambers, Tim and Brohman tied, assisted by Thalen and Dennis Gleeson) to Mike and Ryan Martin) tied the

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MYC program lies behind the teacher and Ms. Tanis is no exception to that rule. It’s obvious she is an enthusiastic teacher who cares a great deal for her students. “Their struggles are my struggles,” she states. “And only goals are in the period their two triumphs equally tritoumphant lead 4-1 forafter me.”two periods. Shelburne tookinformation advantage visit of For more awww.myc.com, tired 81’s team email and scored tanisthree goals in the third to tieor cowan.myc@sympatico.ca the at 4-4 and send it to callgame 519-638-5715. overtime. Unfortunately Shelburne scored halfway into the overtime period to take a 5-4 victory. Fisher, Brett Nichol, Richardson and Dejong scored for the 81’s and assists were picked up by Pinder (2), Herbst (2), Norman and Steve Metzger. The 81’a host the Saugeen Shores at the Palmerston Arena on Jan. 22 at 1pm. The following Saturday, Jan. 28, the 81’s host Ripley, also at the Palmerston Arena, at 8pm.

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program is geared towards children ages 3½ and 4; the Sunbeam keyboard program toward ages 5 and 6; and the Moonbeam keyboard program is for ages 7 through 9. All three keyboard programs integrate creative movement, only twosinging, goals, music sendingtheory the rhythm, game to overtime with the and composition for parent and teams tied at 5-5. one-hour seschild in a weekly Mapleton Minto’s Todd sion. Norman scored inthea game Participating MYC winner with children only 7.9 secclass helps develop onds remaining in overtime. Other 81’s goal scorers were Cochrane (2), Simon Johnson, Dejong and Herbst. Assists were added by Dejong (2), Pinder, Whalen, Devon McGuire, Herbst and Mike Fisher. The 81’s then travelled to Dundalk to take on the Shelburne Muskies on Jan. 15. The 81’s jumped out to a fast start, scoring the first goal of the game and taking a 2-1 lead into the first intermission. The second period belonged to the 81’s, who scored the

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But Listowel came back game 5-5. Community took the lead with a goal before the period again midwayloving through the thirdforended. Tender care the Joey Shantz and Curtis period. Cal Martin planted a Wagler set up Kyle Streicher four-legged yourshot family. a quick and his team’s shot on net and Geraldmember Martin forof Professional quality at country prices. first goal. snapped the rebound over netListowel tied the game 2-2 minder Jason Newton. Floradale tied the game in the third when Cole Maher back up when Dan Martin and set up Travis Kuepfer, who Josh Brohman set up Ryan went to the net and ripped a shot into the short side corner. Martin for the goal. Listowel fought hard and Floradale took the lead for the first time in the game in the was rewarded with three minfinal minutes. Tim Freeman utes left in the game. Trevor Streicher and Travis scored the goal, from Tim and Kuepfer worked the play along Dan Martin. One more empty net goal the blue line to give Cole byfor Willis Martin finished the Maher the puck. He cut in front win for Floradale. Assists on of the net and sent a wrist shot Lunch & Dinner the play went to Leon Metzger underneath the crossbar for the (Wed, Thurs & Fri) go-ahead goal. and Tim Martin. Bethel pulled their goalListowel 5 Bethel 2 GREAT SPECIALS Bethel’s Tim Bauman tender for the extra skater in IN THE STORE scored the only goal in the the final minute, but Listowel MONDAY-SATURDAY Cnr of Wellington Rd. 7the & 12opportunity for two seized first period on 8AM-6PM, a powerplay, 519-638-5000 | www.theharvesttable.ca info@theharvesttable.ca net goals to put the assisted by Kyle Martin and |empty game away 5-2. Jim Wideman. Jay Miller and Trevor Bethel added another in RAYTON Streicher OCATION scored the final the second period after Mike 10upWellington North two goals withSt assists by Cole Veens and Wideman set 1, Drayton Maher, Travis Kuepfer and Mike Seiling, who beat net- Unit minder Charlie Wagler to make Lowell Weber. Driving School the score 2-0. submitted by Willard Metzger “Collision-Free Driving for a LIFEtime” In business for 18 years.

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The Community News, Friday, January 20, 2012 PAGE THREE

Big Brothers, Big Sisters sets Bowl for Kids dates

THE 2012 MAPLETON FIRE RESCUE CASH CALENDAR

Slower calendar sales could mean less funding for two local events by Chris Daponte MAPLETON TWP. - Two of this township’s most popular annual events are the Santa Claus Parade through Drayton and the Canada Day fireworks display at the Drayton Fairgrounds. In addition to the great entertainment they provide, an added bonus for locals is the $0 price tag at both events. But Mapleton Township Fire Rescue, which organizes both events, may have to once again ask for money from residents and/or businesses if revenue from calendar sales does not pick up. “We used to go door to door asking for money ... we also asked businesses,� said Fire Chief Rick Richardson. “We just hate doing that.� To date the department has sold just over 700 of the 1,200 calendars ordered for 2012. At this time last year, sales were well over 900. “It was so successful last year. I can’t figure it out,� said

Richardson. He acknowledged the department is running out of days to sell the calendars - a problem that is compounded by training commitments and other duties of local firefighters. Richardson would appreciate any help the department receives with calendar sales. All profits are directed towards the annual parade and fireworks show, with anything left over going to the local food bank. “It’s a good cause,� said Richardson. The calendars are $10 each. An extra $15 enters the purchaser into fundraising draws throughout the year. There are two draws every week for $50, two yearly draws for $1,000 and seven daily draws during fire prevention week in the fall for $100. For more information or to arrange the purchase of a calendar email Ruchardson at mapletonfc@sympatico.ca.

for one-to-one match programs as well as the organization’s in -school mentoring program is increasing. “We must raise $60,000. in this year’s Bowl for Kids campaign so that we can continue to provide service, free of charge to those in our community who depend on us,� Mainland said. Finding volunteers to fill these positions is also a challenge for the organization. “We must make every effort to give back childhood to our children, and make sure they are valued as individuals so that they in turn will grow up to be responsible caring parents, contributing members

MOUNT FOREST February means it is time again for the annual Bowl for Kids in support of Big Brothers, Big Sisters (BBBS) of North Wellington. “It is when we encourage the entire community to get involved, come out and bowl,� said Marnie Mainland, executive director of BBBS of North Wellington. “It is the time of year we descend on the businesses to donate a door prize and local businesses always do. We are indeed a blessed community, a giving community and we thank you in advance for your support.� Mainland says the demand

group has its bowling event on Feb. 26 and the Arthur group on March 4. To put in a team in Bowl for Kids or to sponsor the event, contact Marnie Mainland at 519-323-4273. For more details and a complete prize list visit the BBBS website at www.bbbsnorthwellington.org.

of society,� Mainland said. “We understand not everyone is in a position to volunteer their time on a weekly basis as our Big Brothers, Big Sisters and in-school mentors do but by coming our to bowl in our Bowl for Kids campaign you are helping out in a really big way because with out money we can not continue to provide our programs.� The 2012 Bowl for Kids event campaign will take place at the Mount Forest Bowling Centre, with three dates to support all three of the BBBS of North Wellington groups. The campaign kicks-off on Feb. 12 for the Mount Forest group. Minto/Mapleton’s

Council passes taxes, borrowing bylaws to operate while council considers its 2012 budget. In recent years, most municipalities are completing their budgets much earlier than in the past. Last year for example, Wellington County set its budget at the beginning of the year and found very competitive bidding for its capital project from companies that had yet to obtain contracts for the summer construction season. County officials estimated they save thousands of dol-

by David Meyer MAPLETON TWP. - At its first meeting of 2012 on Jan. 10, council passed its interim tax levy bylaw and a borrowing bylaw to set up township finances for the coming year. Council approved a standard interim tax levy bylaw that allows it to charge residents half of last year’s taxes over two installments. The first installment is due on March 23 and the second is due June 22. That permits the township

lars by getting the budget done early so the call for tenders can go out earlier in the year. Mapleton council also approved a bylaw allowing it to borrow money if there is a shortfall of cash prior to the taxes reaching the office. Chief administrative officer Patty Sinnamon said that bylaw is done every year but the township has never had to use it to borrow in the time she has been working in Mapleton.

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Turbine decision coming soon? said in an interview on Jan. 11 council had made no decision except to wait for a legal opinion, and, “We’re hoping to get a report back for the next council meeting - Jan. 24.� Sinnamon added that, unlike the environmental tribunal appeal that had a deadline within two weeks of the project approval, a judicial appeal does not have such a deadline and that gives council time to make an informed decision.

FROM PAGE ONE Council is waiting for a report from its lawyer before it makes a decision. Mayor Bruce Whale has said the challenge could come but only if the solicitor believes an appeal can be won. Whale does not like the idea of spending township money unless there is a chance of winning. Township chief administrative officer Patty Sinnamon

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PAGE FOUR The Community News, Friday, January 20, 2012

Letter to the Editor

the

Community News Published by W.H.A. Publications Limited P.O. Box 189, Drayton, Ontario, N0G 1P0 24 Wood St., Unit A, Drayton (inside Studio Factor) Telephone 519-638-3066 Fax 519-638-3895 drayton@wellingtonadvertiser.com Published on Fridays Deadline: Monday at 10am Subscriptions $52 plus HST in Canada W.H. Adsett, Publisher Dave Adsett, Editor Wilma Mol, Office Manager Alicia Roza, Graphic Designer

GENERAL POLICY

Persons wishing information regarding circulation, rates and additional service, etc. should feel free to contact the staff. The Publisher accepts responsibility for claims and honours agreements made by himself or by regular staff on his behalf. No responsibility is accepted for actions of persons not in the employ of the paper, or otherwise over whom the Publisher has no control. All advertising accepted is done so in good faith. Advertising is accepted on the condition that, in the event of typographical error, that portion of the advertising space occupied by the erroneous item, together with a reasonable allowances for signatures, will not be charged for, but the balance of the advertisements will be paid for at the applicable rate. In the event of a typographical error advertising goods or services at a wrong price, goods or services may not be sold. Advertising is merely an offer to sell, and may be withdrawn at any time.

Ontario Community Newspaper Association

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STAFF Office Manager: Wilma Mol

Office Hours: Mon Tues 9am - 12pm, Thurs 9am - 3pm DEADLINE: MONDAY 10AM

YOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

EDITORIAL

Ironic invitation

The federal Liberal Party convention over the weekend in Ottawa left us with bittersweet memories and a smile. Big Liberal booster the Toronto Star’s Sunday analysis was “bold new ideas” clashed with the “same old Liberals.” The party, now in third place in parliament and in danger of disappearing, seems to have difficulties working out problems. The convention was supposed to haul them into the new millennium. By all accounts, in a liberal newspaper, that did not happen. Those of us who have watched the party over the years can explain why. Our personal look goes back to Lester B. Pearson and Trudeaumania, through the convention that elected John Turner in the mid 1980s, and on through several leaders who followed them. It was the convention that chose Turner as leader and short-term prime minister that demonstrated how utterly arrogant a party can become. We telephoned national party headquarters on behalf of our newspaper of those days, seeking press passes. We had done the same thing a year earlier with the Progressive Conservatives for the convention that elected Brian Mulroney, and could not have been treated better. We were refused by the Liberals because, as the person on the line said, “We’re electing a prime minister here. This is for real journalists.” We never forgot his words. We managed, through a Liberal MP, to obtain press passes to the convention centre, and then, along with about 250 other legitimate reporters, we were denied entry to the convention floor, the only place from which to do a proper job. After much negotiation (and near fights between hot headed reporters and Liberal party flacks), some of us managed to get onto the floor - with temporary passes. Such treatment doomed an unknowing Turner, who mused at one point during the following election campaign that he could not understand why the media appeared to be out to get him. We could think of 250 reasons why: the number of frustrated reporters spread across Canada. But the suggestion of “bold new ideas” seems to us an oxymoron when it refers to Liberals. The last one (if it really is one) was Mackenzie King’s “Conscription if necessary but not necessarily conscription.” Going back to the 1940s and then later to Lester Pearson’s Kingston convention on policy, the Liberal party has spent 70 years stealing ideas from political rivals. In the 1940s, it was pensions and unemployment insurance, in the 1960s it was health insurance. The Liberals stole those from the CCF and its successor, the NDP. It was said at the time of the health insurance plans in the mid 1960s Canada could not sustain such a plan. That reality is hitting home hard today. In the early 1990s, the Liberals stole the idea of a balanced budget and fiscal responsibility from the former Reform Party. Balancing the budget made Jean Chretien and his finance minister Paul Martin look like geniuses. But over that decade, does anyone remember anything else Chretien did (okay, the Clarity Act was not a bad idea, but others called for it long before). And Martin’s brief sojourn into power showed no initiatives or proposals. Liberals had, by his tenure, become all about power - and nothing else. And because there was a dearth of ideas just about everywhere except from their main rivals, the Conservatives (and nobody said they were even good ideas), the Liberals floundered. Today, it appears they cannot even decide to steal American ideas such as holding primaries and opening up the party leadership race to everyone. Liberal pundits are urging just that, apparently. The reason for our ironic smile, though, was a missive sent to our newsroom a few weeks ago by email. It was an invitation to attend the Liberal convention on the weekend. Party workers could not have been more helpful in arranging press passes for any and all news media. But like other Liberal ploys of the past few years, it was too little, too late. David Meyer

192 lives touched by blood donors in Drayton Dear Editor: I would like to thank the dedicated Drayton donors who attended the recent blood donor clinic on Jan. 9. Thanks to your generosity, Canadian Blood Services collected 64 units of blood. Considering that one unit has the power help or save up to three lives, your gift of blood

has potentially helped over 192 patients in need at our area hospitals. The need for blood is ongoing, so it is important to have such strong donor and community support. We have a real need for new donors and I am pleased that we did welcome several new donors to the Drayton clinic this past Monday. Many thanks to the strong community support extended

to Canadian Blood Services by the Drayton community. Thanks to the many businesses that help advertise the clinic, Community Christian School for giving the clinic a home, and the many volunteers who help make the clinic a success. We will return to Drayton on March 12 at Community Christian School (35 High St.) from 2:30 to 7:30pm. Please consider sharing

your vitality by donating blood and helping others in need. Please call 1-888-2-DONATE (1-888-236-6283) or visit blood.ca for clinic locations, eligibility information or to book an appointment to donate. Once again, a big thank you from all of us at Canadian Blood Services. Mark Malinowski, Community Development Coordinator, Canadian Blood Services

Get your Mapleton news on-line. Visit www.wellingtonadvertiser.com. TOWNSHIP OF MAPLETON

Community Information Page

7275 Sideroad 16, P.O. Box 160, Drayton, ON N0G 1P0 Phone: 519-638-3313, Fax: 519-638-5113, Toll Free: 1-800-385-7248 www.mapleton.ca

STATEMENT OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT- JEPP The Township of Mapleton would like to acknowledge the financial support received from the Government of Canada thru the Joint Emergency Preparedness Program (JEPP). The funds were used to purchase and install communications equipment on an existing tower and create a tactical channel to be used by the fire departments in the northern portion of Wellington County, giving them reliable communications during emergency events.

NOTICE TO ALL PROPERTY OWNERS Under Section 357 of the Municipal Act, 2001 the local municipality may cancel, reduce or refund all or part of taxes levied on land in the year in respect of which the application is made if the property:

• • • • •

Ceased to be liable to be taxed at rate it was taxed Became exempt Was razed by fire, demolition or otherwise Damaged by fire, demolition or otherwise – (substantially unusable) Mobile unit removed

Please note that Section 357(3) states that an application under this section must be filed with the treasurer on or before February 28 of the year following the year in respect of which the application is made. 2001, c. 25 s. 357(3). If you require additional information please contact the municipal office at 519-638-3313 ext 22.

VACANCY REBATE Vacancy Rebates are available for eligible properties within the Commercial and Industrial property tax classes. Properties with these classes must have vacant units. A rebate is provided based on the period of time the unit was vacant, subject to eligibility requirements. Application forms are available at the Township office. Deadline to apply for a rebate for the 2011 taxation year is February 28, 2012. Please note that such properties are subject to inspection. If you require additional information please contact the municipal office at 519-638-3313 Ext. 22.

perator Public Works O

ael Darwyn Carmich

rmichael Name: Darwyn Ca Operator w plo Job Title: Snow ar of Service ye t 1s : ice rv Years of Se ily. , Fishing, & Fam mobiling, Horses ow Sn s: st re te In rs, ing: Being outdoo Highlights of Plow clean and clear s ad ro e th ing ep Truck driving, Ke use. for the public to nks, Mailboxes, owing: Snow Ba Challenges of Pl zing rain. Bridges, and Free ADS SAFE! KEEPING THE RO

COUNCIL DATES Tuesday, January 24, 2012 1:00 p.m. - Regular Meeting of Council Tuesday, February 14, 2012 7:00 p.m. - Regular Meeting of Council

The Community News, Friday, January 20, 2012 PAGE FIVE

Mapleton Musings Column courtesy of Mapleton Historical Society Conestogo Dam Many people enjoy the amenities at Conestogo Lake in Mapleton Township, whether it is by boat, swimming, camping or staying at the cottage. Little thought is given to the planning, negotiations, decisions and construction of this man-made body of water. The Grand River Conservation Commission (GRCC) built the Shand Dam on the Grand River at Belwood and the Luther Reservoir as flood control measures but there were still vast quantities of water entering the Grand during spring run off and from flash floods from its tributary, the Conestogo River. In the late 1940s the commission announced plans to build a dam on the Conestogo,

up stream from the hamlet of Glen Allan, in what was then Peel Township. A large area of the proposed lake would be in Maryborough Township. Many acres of farmland would be under water and township officials were concerned farming ratepayers would be fairly compensated for their land. To complicate things further, a county road, #85, which is now Sideroad 15, ran right through the proposed lake area where the water depth would be perhaps 30 to 50 feet. After much negotiation and planning, the proposed dam and lake area project was approved for funding by the provincial and federal governments in 1953. The funding formula was as follows: 37.5% from the

province, 37.5% from the federal government and the balance from the GRCC, through assessment to the affected municipalities. Interestingly enough, neither Peel, Maryborough nor Drayton was expected to pay for the construction, although today the municipality is assessed for a portion of the operating costs. Farmers were paid $110 per acre for their farms; a reasonable value at that time. Most accepted, although one fellow challenged the commission on value, and eventually sold his farm. The GRCC purchased some whole farms, and in the end purchased 4,921 acres in total. Some of the land was later sold as smaller farm holdings. One school, S.S.#18, was in the lake area. The com-

mission offered to move the building to another site, but later found the building could not be moved. Maryborough council requested the GRCC build a new school. Most of the buildings in the hamlet of Hollen would be either under water or threatened by high water levels. One such building was the Hollen United Church. The lake would split the area where the members of the congregation lived. As well, most of the farm families that sold their land would not remain in the immediate area, thus further reducing the support to the church. In the end the GRCC gave the church $2,500 in compensation. About 130 men in militia units in Kitchener, Guelph and London held maneuvers early

one March during the construction period. They demolished bridges, houses and other buildings, set up road blocks and smoke screens to simulate a retreat from enemy attack. The dam was to be 76 feet high and 1,800 feet long with an access road over it. The contract for building the dam was awarded in 1955. It would take three summers of construction before it was completed. The lake area had to be cleared of bridges, buildings and trees. The stumps of trees were not removed and occa-

DRAYTON

five of the eight local councils in Durham must pass resolutions supporting the change before it can take effect. It is a similar type of majority that was required when Wellington County amalgamated at the end of the last century. When asked if Wellington County has any plans to push for an elected head of county council, Warden Chris White said “No. Not at this point.” He added, “Regional government is a little different” from county governments. When reminded the two officers responsible for writing the amalgamation order for Wellington County stated their strongest recommendation was

to have an elected-at-large warden, White said, “I wasn’t around for amalgamation.” But he noted county council “had a pretty good discussion last term” about governance. County council has made some changes since amalgamation with regard to the top job. There is no longer a sense that each person can have “a turn” at the top post simply by being on council a long time. Further, wardens have, in the past ten years, been elected for more than one term. The most recent move was to make the warden’s job a twoyear term. The province helped with that move by extending municipal council terms to four years instead of three.

Parkinson Society, VON launch exercise program LISTOWEL The Parkinson Society of southwestern Ontario and VON Canada have formed a partnership for a new exercise program for people living with Parkinson’s. It begins the week of Feb.13. The Parkinson’s Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together (SMART) Integration Project was funded through the South West Local Health Integration Network to provide the opportunity to exercise in a safe environment with others who experience similar challenges. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder that affects smooth coordinated muscle movements in the body. Many people with Parkinson’s experience challenges with everyday tasks such as walking, eating, swallowing and communicating with others. This six-week exercise program is designed to bring together people who are affect-

ed by Parkinson’s, providing information, exercise and additional support to caregivers. The group exercise program will emphasize fun social interactions in a community setting while providing instruction twice a week on exercises appropriate for people living with the disease. These programs will provide everyday fitness strategies that will help people achieve a better quality of life with Parkinson’s. There are nearly 100,000 Canadians who suffer from this neuro-degenerative disorder that causes symptoms such as tremors, slowness and stiffness, impaired balance and rigidity of the muscles. This number is expected to double by 2016 to over 200,000 people. Once thought to be a disease exclusive to the elderly, 1 in 10 people will be under the age of 40 at the time of diagnosis. There is currently no known

cause or cure for Parkinson’s. For further information on how to register or volunteer for the Listowel Parkinson’s VON SMART Exercise Program, call Lindsay Van Bergen at 519-291-5898.

The public must also be consulted before Durham changes the rules to allow people to elect the regional chairman. Durham Region includes Oshawa, Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington and the townships of Brock, Scugog and Uxbridge. The regional chairmen in Halton and Waterloo Regions are elected directly by voters, while other heads of regional and county councils in Ontario are appointed by their elected councils. White said of the possibility of a warden elected by all the people instead of county council, “I’m not averse to it.” But, he added, “The current system is working reasonably well.” He noted the county system is similar to the provincial and federal governments, where parties choose leaders, and not the electorate. “We’ve got a longer term for warden that makes sense,” White concluded. “It takes time to learn the system.”

submitted by Jean Campbell

chop house

7 Great Reasons... atures

Daily Fe

White rules out elected-at-large county warden by David Meyer WELLINGTON CTY. - An announcement that Durham Region residents have been given the right to elect their council chairman will create no copycat moves from this municipality. The regional council in Durham asked the province in 2010 to pass a regulation allowing it to elect its chairman instead of having someone appointed. Municipal Affairs Minister Kathleen Wynne signed a regulation recently that will allow Durham residents to decide if they want to elect their head of regional council. In order for that to happen, the regional council and at least

sionally one becomes uprooted and surfaces to float to shore. Final approval from the Ontario Ministry of Highways and the Ontario Ministry of Planning and Development was received so roads were rerouted and rebuilt and bridges removed or built as required in the summer of 1957. Finally the dam would hold back the flood waters in the spring of 1958. Lots would be sold for cottages and camping and recreations areas were created.

Monday Half Price Gourmet Burgers. Tuesday Family Night Kids 10 and under eat free!

Wednesday World famous Fresh Ontario Chicken Wing Night. 65 cents each! Thursday Chop Night - $1.99 each. Locally raised centre cut pork chops, thin sliced and seasoned to perfection on the chopping block! Friday Girls Night Out $5 per glass martinis or house wine after 8pm. Saturday Prime Rib ready to serve at 5pm. Locally raised AAA Angus seasoned to perfection and roasted on the bone. Come in early before it is all gone. Sunday Traditional Sunday Brunch à la carte and Sunday Caesars, a Chop House specialty

Open 7 days a week, 11am to close 519.638.3463 • Located in downtown Drayton

“If you want to go quickly, go alone... ...if you want to go far, go together.”

Camping reservation system now open The camping reservation system for Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) parks opened for the 2012 camping season on Jan. 16. The service, found at www. grcacamping.ca, is available 24 hours a day from mid-January through to Thanksgiving weekend, allowing campers to book a campsite through to the end of the operating season. As well, a call centre is available for those who want

to book over the telephone. The call centre, which can be reached toll-free at 1-877-558GRCA (4722), is open daily from 7am to 9pm. The GRCA is the second largest campground operator in Ontario, offering over 2,500 campsites throughout the Grand River watershed. Of the GRCA’s 11 gated parks, eight offer nightly, monthly and seasonal camping opportunities. For more information visit the website.

A place where students are nurtured within a community of faith, love and excellence. Come and see for yourself. Open Houses and Registration (9:00am -12noon) February 3, March 23, April 13, May 4

www.ccsdrayton.org

PAGE SIX The Community News, Friday, January 20, 2012

By Laurie Langdon

God is in your mess Zephaniah 3:17 says, “The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.� But if I were ever to write my own version of that verse it would go like this: “The

Lord thy God in the mess of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.� Some of God’s best work is done in the crude places of life. Some of the greatest work that God has done in my life has been in very dark places like caves, valleys, holes in the ground, the wee hours of the morning and, yes, hell ...

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pure hell. These were times when I believed that God was doing anything but reproducing Himself in me. You, too, will have those times. “He’s not even close,� you hear yourself cry, “let alone in me. He’s gone, quite far. In fact, He’s been gone for a long time ... furthermore, He’s not coming back.� There will, most certainly, be times when you will lose every and any sense of His presence. There will be times when you feel as if you are about to die; like you’ve gotten the raw end of the deal, or like you are being passed over constantly and like there’s no hope whatsoever of your getting out of the hole you are in. You have been dumped in a place in the earth where God never visits. This is the end.

Oh, you started out pretty good. You have come to know the Lord some years ago and you are making headway. You have become involved in ministry in the body of Christ and are growing in your devotional life. You have gained some element of respect in the Christian community and appear to be going somewhere. Then, without warning, fear and confusion rushes in as a tragic circumstance confronts you and bottom falls out. No matter how hard you try to pray, no words come. You are overwhelmed by your circumstance and you grow angrier, more confused and weak. Sound bleak? Yes, it does. But we have these times ... really, we do. I’m just being honest.

But, you know, even though you have absolutely no sense of it at the time, God is in it. “Whaaat?!� you scream. Oh, by the way, that’s a typical response. Besides experiencing personal tragedy myself, I have witnessed defeats in the lives of others close to me as well: disease, sickness, suicide, the death of teenage sons or daughters or children, loss of income, you name it. Mess happens. Still, God is in it - the mess, I mean. Look for Him in it. I have looked back over the tragedies of my life and I have seen, not only the hand of God, I have seen God Himself there, time and time again. He was there, and fully there, amidst the tears and

screams, the cold sweats and the trembling, forming me and re-working His image in me. You too, during times when you are totally oblivious to His presence, the words “though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ� (1 Peter 1:6-7) still ring true. God is there. Not only so, He is allowing you to suffer, almost die, it seems. And He is doing so because He is loving you and transforming you by His grace. “Odd,� you muse. Maybe so, but nonetheless, true.

New Deluxe City Package February 4, 11, 18 & 25 call for Details

Gift Certificates Available MTO Approved Beginner Driver Educational Course Provider

March Break course in both Fergus & Elora March 12-15

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Kenya & heating

Missions Trip &

cooling Complete safety and efficiency efficiien ency furnace f testing from January-April & air conditioning checks for peek efficiency from May-August in exchange for a $50 donation. 100% of my funds raised for the next eight months will go towards my trip to Kenya with Community Mennonite Fellowship.

Dan Brown, owner of Precision Home Systems to book appointment today call

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Wellington County Library, Drayton Branch Submitted by Bep Vandenberg

The holidays have come and gone and it is time to get back into a regular routine. This month the Drayton branch is celebrating its third anniversary at its current location. It has been wonderful to see so many adults and children enjoy the new library. In the weeks leading up to Family Literacy Day, which is Jan. 27, staff will be handing out “Journey to Learning� passports. Five activities on the passport must be completed by a family in order to receive a ballot to enter the draw for a special prize. The draw will take place on Jan. 27. Family Literacy Day promotes the importance of reading and learning together as a family. All nominations for the Forest of Reading are available at the library. These books are written by Canadian authors. Children can read them and vote on the one they like the best. The books are divided into four categories and each category represents a reading level and age. The categories

Now available

locally

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THE COMMUNITY NEWS

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are: blue spruce, red maple, silver birch and white pine. Check out the display at the library. Voting will take place in April. E-book training is now available at the Wellington County Library. For those who have recently purchased an e-reader or are thinking of it, staff will be hosting an information session on downloading e-books from the library. Branch staff will teach the basics of navigating the Overdrive website, how to download e-books, and how to transfer books onto e-readers. The Drayton branch session will be held on Feb. 13 at 3pm. On Jan. 23, schools are having a professional development (PD) day. Looking for ways to entertain the kids? Come and create something with plasticine, from 2 to 3:30pm. This event is for children in grade 1 and up. Book club will be held on Jan. 25 at 6:45pm. This month Testimony by Anita Shreve will be discussed by members. Next month’s book will be Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda. Join the discussion. January is the start of new sessions at the branch. Babytime, Busy Bees, Story Time, Afterschool Adventures

and Booktastic Kids Club are all underway. A few spaces are still available. For more information, or to register, visit www.wclib.ca, drop by the branch or call 519-638-3788. The Playaway Views are new at the Wellington County Library. The Playaway Views, is an all-in-one video player and the Playaway, is an all-inone audio book. Come check them out. Many new titles have arrived at the branch, including the following. Fiction In Triangles by Ellen Hopkins three female friends face mid-life crises in a noholds-barred exploration of sex, marriage and the fragility of life. Only Time Will Tell by Jeffrey Archer is the first novel in a new series that tells the story of one family across generations, across oceans, from heartbreak to triumph. Breaking Point by Dana Haynes is a twisty, compelling thriller that goes from the streets of Spain to the mountains of the western United States to the heart of the dark, hidden corridors of power. Always Something to Remind Me by Beth Harbison is a riveting look at the tender

agony of first love. It is touching, truthful and profoundly satisfying. The Decision by Penny Vincenzi is an agonizing and desperate take in the divorce courts, where truths will be told, secrets revealed and reputations shattered. Non-Fiction Michael Buble On Stage and Off is available. As is Lindsay Rosa’s Not My Idea of Heaven, which tells the inspiring story of a young woman who broke free from a religious sect to find her own voice. How to Start a Home-Based Event Planning Business by Jill S. Moran is in. As is Air Farce: 40 Years of Flying by the Seat of your Pants by Dan Ferguson and Roger Abbott. Huggable Crochet, features cute and cuddly animals from around the world by Christine Lucas. Natural Wooden Toys by Erin Freuchtel-Dearing includes 75 easy-to-make and kid-safe designs to inspire imaginations and creative play. This is just a sample of the new arrivals at the Drayton branch. Visit the library to check out these books and many more in a variety of formats.

( ! ( %%" !$ ,%*' !" -( *)*' !$ %*) %*) %*' ' '% ' # Is high school in your child’s future? ' Find ' $$! out about# ,$)& the Grade 9! -' )()& Program offered through Centre Peel Secondary School %%" %'+ "" !()'! ) %$ ', # $)( $)( ( & &$ & " Friday January 27 - 9:15 a.m. *'( , $* ', $ & ( &$) in the library at Centre Peel Public School & # #(& ! $# &, $$! Information will be provided on the high & , #) &, " program and student sign up sheets ')school % '( % %' $ # ( ! & &, !' )%' % * )!%$

!' % ) $$! Martha ( #(& ! ) ! Rogers Bob % ' Border Director of Education Chair of the Board # $&" ( $# + !! %&$* $# ( ' $$! %&$ & " # '() #( ' # )% ' ('

&( $ &' $ $& # & ($& $ ) ( $# & $ ( $ &

The Community News, Friday, January 20, 2012 PAGE SEVEN

CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED

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Apply in person with resume to 42 McGivern Street Moorefield, ON

FOR PRICING INFORMATION GO TO: www.ellcrest.ca Store Hours: OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9:00am-7:00pm

HELP WANTED

The Optimist Club of Alma Requires Part Time Janitorial Services Personnel The Optimist Club of Alma is seeking a part time individual to carry out janitorial services at the Alma Community Centre. The position will average 7-10 hours per week. The candidate must have good cleaning skills including cleaning working surfaces and other furniture as required, cleaning, washing, sweeping and vacuuming of floors; empty litter bins, removing waste to designated areas; cleaning washrooms. The successful candidate must have his/her own transportation and be able to work with minimal supervision. The successful candidate will be asked to obtain suitable insurance as a condition of hiring. A detailed copy of the job description is available upon request.

Applicants are invited to submit a detailed resume via e-mail not later than midnight Friday, January 27th, 2012 to:

accmapleton@hotmail.com or contact Barry at 519-846-5106 The Optimist Club of Alma thanks all those who apply, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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PAGE EIGHT The Community News, Friday, January 20, 2012

Northern municipalities attend joint economic development meeting by Kris Svela HARRISTON - Three northern Wellington County municipalities took the first step in what could become joint ventures in economic development. Minto hosted the joint meeting on Jan. 16 at Harry Stones restaurant, inviting representatives from Wellington North and Mapleton Township. While Minto and Wellington North have active economic development departments, Mapleton is in the process of resurrecting its economic development committee, which was scheduled to host its first meeting Jan. 17. Minto business and economic manager Belinda WickGraham told the 40 people in attendance the intent was to “share ideas,” on past economic initiatives in the northern communities, what initiatives

could be shared and what initiatives representatives would like to see in their own municipalities. “The reason for this meeting is to identify ... the main things you’re working on,” she told volunteers, staff and politicians who attended. Mapleton clerk Patty Sinnamon said she and economic development members from the community were interested to learn what initiatives have taken place. Those attending the meeting were divided into several groups to identify economic development efforts already underway as well as new initiatives. Drayton resident Liz Samis, a member of the Mapleton economic development committee, stressed one of the priorities for local economic development is the use of computer technology

that would allow entrepreneurs to establish businesses locally. It was a philosophy shared by Wellington North Councillor Andy Lennox in the round-table discussions. “If the technology isn’t there they (business people) can’t do it,” Lennox said. Dave Barrett, project manager with the Saugeen Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), pointed to the success of community radio station Bluewater Radio 91.3 out of Hanover as an integral part of community promotion. “Ten years ago a couple of guys had an idea for a community radio station and it’s grown from there,” Barrett said. The non-profit radio channel has been looking to expand its coverage area with the installation of a transmitter in

Mount Forest that would boost its signal to a larger coverage area. Wellington North business and economic manager Dale Small said his municipality has been in talks with the station and garnering support for the expansion, which will eventually go with an application to the Canadian Radiotelevision Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) which is charged with approving the expansion. Small said he was happy with the turnout and economic development initiatives discussed during the two-hour meeting. “I really don’t know that this would have happened three years ago,” he said of the joint meeting. “We really weren’t there at that time.” Minto councillor Rick

Hembly, head of the town’s economic development committee, would like to see walking and bike trails shared between the municipalities. “Minto is looking at a series of connected walking and biking trail links throughout Wellington County,” he said. Small said attracting large business should be a priority for Wellington County, which is currently establishing its own economic development committee headed by Minto Mayor George Bridge. According to Small, local efforts should focus on local initiatives such as the popular Buttertart Trail in Wellington North. Some of the initiatives identified at the meeting included establishing farmers’ markets, setting up localized cultural events, downtown revitalization, having industrial prop-

erty for businesses looking to establish or relocate, compiling community directories, hosting business showcase events, and exploring joint ventures between the municipalities. Mayor Bridge said the meeting proved successful, adding,“I think there’s a great opportunity to move forward.” The sentiment was echoed by Wellington North Mayor Ray Tout. “I think this is fantastic. We’ve got three communities that can work together,” Tout said. “That’s the start of a very good thing.” Mapleton Mayor Bruce Whale said the meeting will give Mapleton’s new economic development committee a lot to consider. “Our economic development committee is getting back into the swing of things,” said Whale.

Community Futures celebrating 25 years as effective national program

A government program was celebrated for its success and longevity on Parliament Hill recently when MPs met with members of the Community Futures Network of Canada. The program was established in 1986 as a means for the federal government to boost Canada’s rural economy. When first announced, it was touted as better able to “understand, anticipate and respond to the impact of social and technological change in communities.” The announcement also stated the program would address the “pressing needs of communities by becoming involved in initiatives proposed from within the community itself.” Twenty-five years later the Community Futures program has done just that, said chair-

man of the Community Futures Network of Canada David Harris. “Community Futures is the largest, most well-established national community economic development movement in Canada. Community Futures organizations continue to be the driving force for economic growth and renewal by supporting local economic development. “They assist in the creation of diverse, competitive local economies in rural communities across Canada,” Harris explained. The organizations, known as Community Futures Development Corporations or Community Business Development Corporations, are managed by volunteer boards of directors. Harris is a volunteer serving on the board in

Nova Scotia. Volunteers live in the community and make decisions based on what is best for their regions. Many are successful entrepreneurs who see the benefit of assisting other business people in their area, to promote thriving rural communities. Currently, there are about 3,500 volunteers across Canada, guiding the efforts of approximately 1,600 staff members. With 269 offices covering non-urban areas across Canada, the organizations offer loans to new and existing small businesses and social enterprises, provide free business information and counselling and entrepreneurial training, offer support for community economic development projects, and assist with strategic economic

planning. In Waterloo-Wellington, the program is delivered by Wellington-Waterloo CFDC. Since the inception of the program 25 years ago, the organizations have assisted 106,000 clients, injected in excess of $3.6 billion into the rural Canadian economy and have helped in the creation of 450,000 jobs. Success stories about thriving small businesses that would not have existed without loans or business counselling from its offices are plentiful. Many entrepreneurs say that when banks would not take a chance on their business idea, they turned to Community Futures. Success story General manager of the WWCFDC Rick Whittaker was innovative when he decided

Annual heifer sale supports Mennonite charities LISTOWEL - It is time for the 31st annual heifer sale in support of the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). “This is an excellent opportunity for farmers and agribusinesses to support MCC programs,” said Clarence Diefenbacher, sale chairperson. Each item purchased on auction day goes directly to relief, development and peace work locally and in over 60 countries around the world, through the MCC.

“Some of these farmers donate year after year, without question,” said John Brenneman, secretary of the heifer sale committee. “It’s a good feeling when you ask for one heifer, and someone offers two instead. Stuff like that motivates you to keep doing it.” Last year’s sale raised over $166,000. Since 1982, the heifer sale has raised over $4 million through the auctioning of 3,314 heifers and other donated

items. With plans well underway, the organizing committee is currently seeking donations for the auction. Local farmers, agri-businesses and individuals donate heifers, sale facilities, staff, trucking, feed, straw, veterinary, and auction services and facilities. Many agricultural businesses also sponsor ads and other expenses for the sale. This year’s sale will take place on Feb. 17 at 11am at Carson Auction facilities, 5531

Perth Line 8 in Listowel. For more information about the sale, to donate a heifer or to make a cash donation, contact sale chairperson Clarence Diefenbacher at 519-669-2164 or John Brenneman at 519662-1156 or hiltoper@sentex. net. Donations to the sale will be issued a tax receipt. For more information, visit heifersale.org. For more information on MCC programs visit mcco.ca.

County celebrates 25 years of blue boxes

WELLINGTON CTY. The County of Wellington’s solid waste services division has reached a milestone in 2012 - celebrating 25 years of blue box recycling. The blue box program began with a small group of municipalities in Centre Wellington dealing with the need to close their dump on Gerrie Road in Elora. The group began looking at options to reduce the waste they would need to send to another landfill. One of the many waste reduction programs local coun-

cils initiated in 1987 was blue box recycling. In less than two years, that program expanded to all member municipalities in Wellington County. The program was made up of curbside collection, depot collection at waste facilities, and unstaffed depots dotted across the county. “In 1987, blue box programs were just getting started,” said Warden Chris White. “Wellington County municipalities were on the cutting edge of waste diversion. I’m pleased that this program con-

tinues to be provided to all households across the county and is well used by our residents.” The gold box reward program is one initiative the county will be introducing to celebrate the anniversary. It will be awarded to 25 of the best recyclers in the county. Recipients can use the gold box to show their neighbours they are a superior recycler. The initiative is reflected in the slogan for this milestone anniversary: Silver past, golden future, keeping Wellington green.

More information on the gold box program will be available later this year. The county currently offers curbside blue box collection to approximately 22,000 households. Depot collection is offered to the remaining 10,000 households. In 2010, the county collected approximately 5,500 tonnes of recyclables from residents and businesses through the program. The blue box program is just one of the many diversion programs offered in Wellington.

Crime Stoppers helped cops seize over $5 million in drugs

WELLINGTON CTY. Each year Crime Stoppers programs around the world celebrate Crime Stoppers Month in January to highlight successes and promote crime fighting initiatives. Crime Stoppers is a civilian community organization devised to acquire information to assist law enforcement agen-

cies in solving crime. It pays cash rewards up to $2,000 for information leading to the arrest of criminals, recovery of stolen property and seizure of illegal drugs while maintaining the anonymity to the tipster. Last year was another successful year for Crime Stoppers of Guelph and Wellington

County as the program assisted police and other government agencies in seizing over $5 million in illicit drugs and stolen property. Since 1988 Crime Stoppers of Guelph Wellington has received 14,535 calls and provided $134,335 in rewards. It has also helped police clear 2,118 cases, make 1,389 arrests,

recover almost $10-milion in property, recover over $25 million in drugs and recover over $35 million in cash. The Crime Stoppers program is made up of three elements - the media, the community, and law enforcement. Money to pay tipsters is raised through donations and fundraising activities by the board.

to create a full scale business training program to support the loan clients and business owners in the rural communities of Wellington County and the Region of Waterloo. Encouraged by the board of directors, the Business Excellence training program was developed. One of the reasons the WWCFDC is proud of the program is it affects so many different people in the community. The program offers many interactive workshops, online training videos, private business coaching and the personal support of a business mentor. “It’s a great foundation for information and training. I would highly recommend it to anyone,” said Jennifer Patterson, owner of Inspiring Accents in Elmira. “It helped me to propel my

business further than I could have ever imagined in just three months, said Jonathan Kuntze, owner of Pinacle Health and Fitness, of Elmira and Milverton. Steve Humphries, owner of The Bar Store in Fergus, said, “One of the main advantages of taking the training program is being with other entrepreneurs and bouncing ideas off people that are in the same boat as you are.” Vinnie Green, of White Car Limousine, in Fergus, said, “Once you get comfortable with a mentor, and get on the same wave length, life becomes a lot easier and you have a new team member.” The WWCFDC Business Excellence training program recently won the award of excellence for a business support service.

Mitchell re-elected chairman of GRCA

CAMBRIDGE - Jane Mitchell has been re-elected to a second one-year term as chairman of the Grand River Conservation Authority. The election took place at a GRCA board meeting Jan. 12. Mitchell, who represents the Region of Waterloo on the GRCA board, was acclaimed to the position. Also re-elected by acclamation were First Vice chairman Vic Prendergast of Brantford and second vice chairman Jan D’Ailly of the Region of Waterloo. Mitchell has been on the board since 2003 and served as first vice-chair from 2007 to 2010. Mitchell said a key issue facing the GRCA in the coming year is the coming restraint at Queen’s Park.

“We must make sure they understand the importance of conservation authorities and do not cut back on grants for flood control infrastructure or our small amount of core funding,” said Mitchell. “All the provincial parties must understand that clean water and flood prevention not only save money in the long run but save lives.” The GRCA is addressing water issues by developing a water management plan in conjunction with municipalities, provincial ministries, federal departments and First Nations, said Mitchell. Calling it the “most important work the GRCA will undertake next year,” Mitchell said it will deal with water supply, water quality and flooding issues for the next 25 years.

‘Driven to Quit’ is back

ABOYNE - The Driven to Quit Challenge is back. Quit smoking or any tobacco use in March this year to win a choice of cars, vacation getaways or cash prizes. Wellington Dufferin Guelph Public Health is urging smokers and chewers to register now and plan a strategy for a smoke-free new year. Ontarians aged 19 and older, who have smoked or used tobacco products for at least 10 months in 2011, can enter. Each entrant must sign up with a support buddy, who could win $200 cash. To be eligible for the prize draw, par-

ticipants must stay smoke-free for all of March. “Giving up tobacco can be tough so it helps if you have support,” said public health nurse Dora Eaglesham. “Participants can take advantage of The Driven to Quit online community at facebook.com ... and twitter.com. SmokersHelpline.ca also has some great resources to help keep you on track.” To register and to obtain details about The Driven to Quit Challenge, visit www. DrivenToQuit.ca or call the Canadian Cancer Society Smokers’ Helpline at 1-877513-5333.

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