December 16, 2015 issue 50 ng times

the north grenville

TIMES

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

Vol. 3, No. 50

The Voice of North Grenville

Dec 16, 2015

Community Christmas Dinner

The North Grenville Times is Locally Owned and Operated

the Merrickville/ Wolford

TIMES pages 29 & 30

Christmas is a season for family, friends and getting together. This year, in this amazing community of North Grenville, everyone is invited to a special Christmas Day gathering at Leslie Hall to celebrate and join in a tasty turkey or ham dinner, a traditional holiday meal for all of us to share.

People and businesses from all parts of North Grenville are working together to make this event happen: supplying food, chefs, servers, in fact everything necessary to provide good cheer and company on Christmas Day. This is a way to mark the

holiday together, an open invitation to one and all to roll up to Leslie Hall between 11:30 am and 1:30 pm, take a seat and tuck in, along with friends and neighbours. Let’s face it: this is a wonderful place to live, when you think about it. A generous people, a scenic and restful location (other than County Road 43 at rush hour!), and a place where people want to keep that rural, small town atmosphere.

If you know someone who can’t make it, but would like to be part of the day, call in and a full dinner will be delivered to their door. Would you rather eat at home? No

problem: drop by and get a meal to take away with you. The important thing is that everyone should know that they are part of a community at Christmas time, a community that cares about each other, and wants to say “Merry Christmas!”.

Right now, people all over the municipality are planning to gather together the meat, the veggies and the bread.

Others are planning the preparation and the cooking, while still more are ready to serve the food, wash the dishes and clean the Hall afterwards. No tickets required, no need to book a seat: just come by and

tuck in!

Community Christmas meals are a tradition going back to the earliest days of settlement in this area, and it is a tradition that will be kept alive this year. Leslie Hall has seen many communal gettogethers over the decades, and it seems a fitting venue for Christmas, 2015 and for the future.

If you’d like to get involved in any way, contact Steve at 613-258-5779, or kohls.s.m@gmail.com Thanks to every individual and business joining in to make this happen

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

The North Grenville Concert Choir

Submitted by Elisabeth Rubli The North Grenville Concert Choir, under the direction of Phillip Konopka, gave a lovely rendition of traditional Christmas carols on Sunday at St. John's United Church in Kemptville. The packed audience was absolutely delighted and they all rose as one to give an extended standing ovation!

New horizon club celebrates Christmas with a pantomime

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by Shirley Price The New Horizon Club annual Christmas luncheon was held on Wednesday, December 9 at the Burritt's Rapids Community Hall, where members were served a delicious turkey dinner with home-made pies for dessert, catered and served by the St. Ann's Catholic Church Fund Raising Committee in Merrickville. Following lunch,

Christmas Carols were sung, led by Glen McKnight with Dave Paton on keyboard.

Harold Hellam entertained members with more Christmas music, including songs composed by Harold himself.

While members were enjoying seasonal music, the stars of this year's annual pantomime were getting ready for the New Horizon version of "The Wizard of

Oz". Although we all know the tale of Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow, and the Lion who, with the help of the Munchkins, seek the Wizard for help, our Dorothy wants to return to Canada and become a star on the Canadian Idol, the Scarecrow wants to be a Senator, the Tin Man wishes to become jolly and happy, and the Lion aims to be a King. With advice from Glinda, the Good Witch of the North and, despite their fear of the Wicked Witch of the East who is determined to take away Dorothy's magic red shoes, they find the Wizard and the answers they seek.

The big surprise at the end was the Scarecrow's boasting a Senators sweater, the Tin Man turning out to be a jolly Santa Claus, and the Lion becoming the King - Elvis

Presley. Dorothy clicks her heels and finds her own way home and all is well. With the help of the Munchkins, the audience booed and cheered in the appropriate pantomime tradition.

The first meeting of 2016 will be a pot luck lunch (bring your own dishes) on Wednesday, January 13 at noon, followed by a social time with a "Guess Who?" power point presentation of snapshots of members taken when they were children. New members are very welcome. Meetings are normally held each second and fourth Wednesday at 2 pm in the Burritt's Rapids Community Hall. Some special event luncheons are held at 12 noon, so please contact Kim at 613-258-1780 for meeting programs, dates and times.

Used books needing a place to call home Army head office. Even after multiple phone calls, no one was made available to clarify the situation.

“I think it’s a bigger problem than just the Salvation Army,” Aleta says. “The problem is what to do with used books these days.”

Robin Heald, Executive Director of the Kemptville Youth Centre, says that there are always books that need to be discarded after their annual book drive. “At times they are too damaged, smell very bad, or are simply unsellable because of the format, author or the local buyers and demand.

Both KYC and Salvation Army have been keen recyclers over the years and have attempted to recycle as much as possible. Unfortunately, we've experienced some significant obstacles in recycling these books locally,” she says.

Aleta believes that one solution to this problem is to create a free book exchange

by Hilary Thomson

KEMPTVILLE PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTRE

2868 COUNTY ROAD 43, KEMPTVILLE, ON 613.258.7661 / KEMPTVILLEPHYSIO.COM

Building a Sustainable North Grenville Dec. 16, 2015

We have an issue in North Grenville and it has to do with used books. A few weeks ago, Aleta Karstad wrote a letter to the editor when she discovered three large recycling bins full of books at the Salvation Army that she was told were to be taken to the landfill.

“I was told they were the ‘bad books,’” she says.

“Books that were not approved by the Salvation Army and that would be corrupting for people to read.” As Aleta mentioned in her letter, the bins were full of books that included cookbooks, children’s books, novels and instructional books, none of which seemed corrupting in any way. When asked for more information about the reason why all these books were going to landfill, the store supervisor said questions needed to be brought to the Kemptville Salvation

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where people can drop off the books they are finished with and pick up new ones to enjoy. “I know that everything is becoming more digital these days, but some people still prefer the feel of a book,” she says.

She points out that in the small town of Clayton, near Almonte, there is a General Store that has a bookshelf on its covered stoop all year round where people can take and leave books. It doesn’t take a lot of upkeep, just someone to put the books in order. The same thing could be possible in Old Town Kemptville, there is definitely the space.

“I believe that books have a life,” Aleta says. “ I’m sure the authors of these books would be happy to see that they are being exchanged freely rather than being shredded or plowed under.”

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World Hope receives RBC grant of their employee and retirees’ volunteer efforts.

World Hope Canada is located in Kemptville at 210 Prescott Street. They are a Christian relief and development organization with a focus on those who could be easily forgotten. World Hope Canada works with some of the poorest people in the world. They pay special attention to the issues of child welfare and human trafficking, while seeking to encourage self-sufficiency and inspire hope through projects and activities, such as education, community and economic development, leadership and skills training and public health. World Hope Canada celebrated their 15th anniversary this year. To receive their 2016 Gift Catalogue or if you want more information call 613-482-1499.

L-R: James Sliter, Branch Manager RBC Kemptville, and Pat McCordick Client Advisor RBC Kemptville presenting cheque to Stephanie Gilmer, Executive Director World Hope Canada. submitted by Pat McCordick On November 10, I had RBC employee volunteers a In 2014 RBC provided the privilege of presenting minimum of 40 hours for a 2,452 Employee Volunteer World Hope Canada with a charitable organization. they Grants to Community Orgacheque for $500. The funds could be approved for $500 nization globally. Since 1999, were from the Royal Bank worth of grant money to be RBC has made over 29,000 of Canada through their vol- used towards programs within grants and donated more than unteer grant program. If a Canada. $14.5 million in celebration

Christmas with the Animals at Big Sky Ranch

by Pam Owen Having just begun writing about the wonders of Big Sky Ranch, I was pleasantly surprised to receive an invitation to attend Christmas with the Animals this past Saturday. “This is a wonderful time to be able to be with the animals that we love so much, to spend time with all the people who have worked hard all year to care for the animals that call BSR home, to celebrate all the adoptions that have occurred throughout the year and to see the amazing new Barn of Hope.”

Andy, Cathy and family put on an amazing feast of finger foods and beverages. I met with many of the volunteers, some of the folks that

help out day to day, and others when time permits. Everyone had a story to tell about the animals, stories that were shared with joy and laughter. Volunteers mingled with board members and donators and adopters all in a friendly atmosphere. Andy says that this is his way of saying thank you to the many volunteers for the countless hours put in, to ensure no animal goes unloved.

Held in the Barn of Hope, snacks and drinks were spread out amongst the stalls filled with animals. Chairs were placed handily and within reach of petting any of the residents. Cats were comfy walking around the many legs and within reach of being

were used to build the barn and Big Sky Ranch is now trying to fundraise to replace the much needed funds that a growing Sanctuary needs to operate.

This Christmas, there are many ways to help out the animals at Big Sky Ranch; sponsorship of an animal, corporate sponsorship, donations big or small all help out.

Go to the website www.bigskyranch.ca for more info on how to donate. “Help us help the animals” is the motto of BSR and I can see the motto at work in so many ways!

From the animals and folks at Big Sky Ranch, we wish our friends, families and neighbours a very Merry Christmas!

petted when needed. Most of us mingled and introduced ourselves around, trying to juggle food, drink and the free hand always heading towards a pet or two of the animals.

Never forgotten, the animals were offered a preferred bit of corn, or zucchini, a handful of hay or some dried grass, offered up by one of the many children enjoying the day.

People came and went and a festive air was carried throughout. The animals were pleased to be the stars with lots of attention, but the super-star attraction was the Barn of Hope being showcased! Built to house the many animals that would have otherwise not been as comfy or safe. Reserve funds

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Local artist has painting published in Ontario Nature Magazine

by Hilary Thomson A painting of Oxford Mill’s famous mudpuppies has been published in Ontario Nature Magazine. Artist Aleta Karstad is no stranger to these large, spotted salamanders.

She and her husband, biologist Dr. Fred Karstad, have been taking people to visit them at the bridge in Oxford Mills every Friday night from the first Friday after Thanksgiving until spring high water for 15 years. It is the best place to see these magnificent creatures in Ontario because of its shallow water and flat, stoneless bottom. They even Dec 16, 2015

take a bucket of them in to the Brigadoon for the guests to see on their way out after dinner. “I’ve seen a fellow in a tuxedo on his hands and knees with both hands in the water to touch them,” Aleta says.

Ontario Nature first contacted Fred about an article on mudpuppies because he is the leading researcher of mudpuppies in Ontario. One of the staff at Ontario Nature’s office in Toronto knew about Aleta’s paintings and suggested they ask her if she had any illustrations of the mudpuppies to accompany the article.

“I had always wanted to do an oil painting of the mud-

Nature, accompanying what she thinks is a great article on the animals she has grown to love.

The original 6x20 painting is available by email auction to support their mudpuppy research. The starting bid is $650. Prints are also available and can be purchased for $125. To buy the painting or prints contact her at karstad@pinicola.ca. You can also see some of her other biodiversity paintings on her website www.aletakarstad. com. To learn more about mudpuppy night in Oxford Mills, email Aleta and Fred at bckcdb@istar.ca or call them at 613-258-3107.

puppies,” Aleta says. “I decided to take the opportunity and submit it on the chance that it would be accepted.”

Aleta painted from a few photographs she had taken, as well as from memory. She says she loved depicting the network of wavy bright lines that forms when you look through the water. “I think it’s quite beautiful,” she says.

The painting now accompanies the article on mudpuppies in the current issue of the Ontario Nature Magazine. It is also the second slide of photographs on the magazine’s website. Aleta says she feels honoured to have her painting in Ontario

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Merry Christmas

from the North Grenville Times

Dec. 16, 2015

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Goal-Setting for the New Year The New Year is fast approaching. Now is the perfect time to set specific goals with your children. Allow them to make their own goals, so they can truly experience the satisfaction of seeing them through to the end.

When your children participate, they are more likely to have a vested interest in achieving their personal goals. Having individual goals to work towards brings purpose to the actions in our daily lives. Goals motivate us when we need a boost in energy. Having this conversation with your children about what they would like to improve and accomplish can open doors to expand their horizons.

Here are some tips on discussing goal-setting with your children.

• Keep the goal realistic, specific and measurable. For instance, your children may want to improve their math grade in school to an A in the next marking period. Or, they may want to improve their reading comprehension.

• Create a plan of action. There is a big difference between wanting to achieve something and actually doing it. We need a good plan! Parents play an important part in helping children get there.

• Work together to achieve success. Decide on the goal and plan the necessary steps together. Have your children express their goals to a parent, teacher or Instructor in order to develop accountability and stay on track.

Make a specific future appointment with your child’s teacher or Instructor as a check-in to determine how the plan is going and if it needs to be adjusted.

• Keep the goal in mind. Displaying a goal in a visible place like the wall in the kitchen can serve as a good reminder. Reflecting on how far they have come and where they want to go next is an invaluable activity. Continuous encouragement will also go a long way.

• Make a new, longer-term goal. Provide incentives for your children’s accomplishments. For example, if they reach a milestone towards their goal reward them with something they have been asking for.

• Don’t forget, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.”

Rebekah, Grade 4, Holy Cross School

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Instructor and staff of the Kumon Centre of North Grenville Kumon Math & Reading Centre of North Grenville 613-258-4924 nelsongroening@ikumon.com

Dec 16, 2015

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by Gracie, South Branch

by Ford, Grade 4, South Branch

by Kayla, Grade 4, Holy Cross

& We would like to thank all of our customers for the past season, and wish everyone a joyful Christmas, and all the best for 2016!

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by Scarlett, Grade 4, South Branch

Rudolph Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Had a very shiny nose And if you ever saw it You would even say it glows All of the other reindeer Used to laugh and call him names They never let poor Rudolph Join in any reindeer games1

by Alexa, Grade 4, South Branch

Then one foggy Christmas Eve, Santa came to say, Rudolph with your nose so bright, Won't you guide my sleigh tonight Then how all the reindeer loved him, As they shouted out with glee, Rudolph the red-nose Reindeer You'll go down in history

Dec 16, 2015

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Editorial

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Wind beneath one wing

by David Shanahan There has been a lot of effort put into economic development in North Grenville over the past decade and more. Box stores, lots of new houses, residential subdivisions popping up all over the place. There even seems to be some land clearing taking place for new projects in places where no planning permission has yet been applied for. Signs of optimism, or does someone know something the rest of us don’t?

To date, most of the economic development has taken place in the urban area of Kemptville, where Development Charges were meant to provide a Growth Pays for Growth situation. Large areas have been allocated for concrete and bricks, instead of grass and crops, in a manner that is often confusing, unsettling and simply odd.

But the cry has been “Grow or Die!”, a slogan that is less than inspiring. But work has continued apace and much planning and development sweat has led to our current environment. So far, so good, so far.

But now a chill is in the air, and it’s not just winter coming. Housing starts have

slowed, real estate sales are not encouraging, and residential taxes are starting to worry prospective residents of North Grenville. Funds for urban infrastucture developments have dried up, or else are being sent elsewhere by a provincial government that doesn’t seem to think we need any money here. This is, in part, because previous Councils decided not to raise taxes, and instead emptied our financial reserves. The thinking of provincial purse string holders is clear: you didn’t raise taxes, so you obviously don’t need the money as much as other, poorer municipalities.

The direction we have taken has been towards making North Grenville a dormitory for Ottawa, a place where workers can return at night to sleep, so the priority has been on homes, stores and better and bigger roads. Council and municipal staff are starting to quietly raise concerns that the money is drying up, and we may not be able to spend much more on anything. The strange thing is that there are sectors of the economy where funds are still relatively plentiful, but we don’t seem to be paying attention. There is funding for rural economic

Letter to the Editor Dear Editor: The board of directors of the Friends of Ferguson Forest Centre, and the chair personally, wish to extend heartfelt thanks to the North Grenville Times for not only the extensive exposure over the 2015 year for Friends event, but also for the front-page AGM reporting in the October 28 edition. In addition to thanking the NG Times globally, we particularly wish to recognize Pat Babin for his endorsement for the Friends work

and vision and Marguerite Boyer for her offer to support the Friends endeavours whenever possible.

The gestures of support for our grassroots organization to preserve and be a strong, unified community voice for Ferguson Forest Centre are deeply appreciated.

Sincerely, Liza Duhaime Chair, Board of Directors Friends of the Ferguson Forest Centre

house here.

There is a great deal of talent and expertise among municipal staffers, and given the right encouragement, much could be done. But the system under which we have lived for more than a decade has deeply discouraged the public from getting involved.

Speaking at a Council meeting, where it is permitted, usually seems a waste of time, and people complain about the disrespect they meet with when they try.

In an article elsewhere in these pages, Heather Sansom suggests that the public be let in to the policy- and decision-making process by establishing committees. We used to have such things, before they were set aside in favour of the so-called Committee of the Whole. At a stroke, the contribution of the public was severely restricted.

Instead of sitting on committees and introducing and discussing policy, the public were relegated to giving their “opinions” during CoW meetings. But it was now the sole prerogative of Council to

development projects, local food initiatives, agri-business opportunities. And, in case someone hasn’t noticed, most of North Grenville is rural.

Perhaps if some of those making decisions about our economic development actually lived in North Grenville and paid taxes here, they might notice that there’s much more to the place than the Urban Service Area, aka Kemptville.

But some staff members have stated very clearly their belief that only the municipality can take the lead on any development issues. No voluntary organisation, no local business interests, can be trusted to manage things without municipal staff and budgets, it seems. That might, just might, be acceptable if things were actually going well. But they are not. In the municipalities surrounding ours, imagination and vision are being shown as alternative sources of revenue, jobs and development are being explored, while we just build more houses, and watch local people gradually get poorer, unable to afford to buy a

Dec. 16, 2015

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

actually decide what to talk about and implement.

The public needs to be involved again. Many promises were made during the last election (and the one before, and the one before...) that things would change, that there would be more public consultation, participation and input. Literally, nothing has changed. No extra Councillor appointed, not a single change in the procedures followed in Council meetings. Merrickville-Wolford has six Councillors and a Mayor, representing about 3,000 residents. NG has just four Councillors and a Mayor, representing about 16,000 residents - the same size of Council Kemptville alone had in 1858!

Merrickville-Wolford Council meetings have three open Q&A sections, where residents can ask any question, whether the subject is on the agenda or not. In NG Council meetings, residents can only ask questions on subjects on the agenda, and then only at the end, when all decisions and votes have

been taken.

We are trying to fly on one wing. We need to explore the potential of our rural lands, our agri-business and food initiative potential. This is not being done under the current system. The system must change. The people of NG have to have their say, their input, share their expertise, experience and vision.

Municipal Councillors and staff have talent, skills, and dedication; but to think, on the evidence, that they can do it all without us, is at the least arrogant, and, at the worst, potentially disastrous. Will the Municipality of North Grenville please let us in!

Health Unit supports investigation into Basic Income Guarantee Last month, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit reported a 20% increase in food costs in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark since 2010 and identified poverty as the root cause of hunger. One way to help reduce poverty is a concept called Basic Income Guarantee. This would establish a minimum guaranteed annual income, regardless of work status. It would also ensure that Canadians have enough income to meet their basic needs for food, shelter, heat and clothing, and live with dignity. It has the potential to

help individuals and families deal with financial setbacks when they most need it.

At the November 19 meeting, the local Board of Health approved a motion to write a letter urging the federal and provincial governments to prioritize a joint investigation into a Basic Income Guarantee as a policy option for reducing poverty and income insecurity.

In Leeds, Grenville and Lanark, 12.6% of the population is living with low

ISSN 2291-0301

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

The Voice of North Grenville

www.ngtimes.ca 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

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income as are 16.5% of children under 18. “Not having enough money for basic needs can lead to poor health outcomes,” says Dr. Paula Stewart, Medical Officer of Health for the area. “In Canada, people living in poverty have a shortened life expectancy and are at far greater risk for a range of preventable medical conditions, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease and mental illness.”

With the security of a regular adequate income, people

Mailing Address P.O. Box 35, Oxford Mills, ON, K0G 1S0 Graphics Accounting Micheal Pacitto cfo@ngtimes.ca mike@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671 613-710-7104

could have a better chance of managing their own circumstances to recover from financial setbacks, illness or injury, balance shifting employment and family care needs. They could also choose to get more education or try out new job opportunities. Pilot programs in Canada and other countries suggest that a Basic Income Guarantee has many positive effects including: improved physical and mental health for adults and children; increased high school graduation rates; increased employment in single-parent households; reduction in hospitalizations and crime and an increase in business start-ups.

For more information about Basic Income Guarantee or to find out how you can support this idea, visit: http:// www.basicincomecanada. org/ . You can also get more information about health equity at http://www.healthunit. org/healthequity/.

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

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Clark concerned as minister won’t give car tax a red light A week after forcing them to reverse plans to tax home ownership, Ontario PC Deputy Leader and LeedsGrenville MPP Steve Clark asked the Wynne government to assure Ontario motorists they won’t shift gears and rev up a car tax.

“A leopard can’t change its spots, so Ontarians are right to be worried about what other revenue tools this government has up its sleeve to pick their pockets,” said Steve, who noted the gov-

ernment has hiked taxes by a staggering $30.8 billion.

“Raising taxes is in their DNA.” He said he’s alarmed the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing wouldn’t rule out that he’s considering giving all municipalities the authority to collect a Vehicle Registration Tax. “All I got was the same rhetoric we heard when I first raised the issue of the expanded Municipal Land Transfer Tax and we all know how that ended. The minister

claimed I was making it up until he fessed up and backed down last week before my motion against the tax could be debated.”

Currently, the City of Toronto is the only Ontario municipality with the authority to levy a Vehicle Registration Tax. The unpopular tax was rescinded by city council in Toronto in 2010 and an attempt to reintroduce it was resoundingly defeated in March of this year. Steve pointed out drivers in Ontario

already send $10 billion every year to the provincial treasury through fees and taxes.

“And that’s before the Wynne government’s carbon tax and road tolls make the commute to work even more expensive,” he said. “The last thing hard-working families need is to be slapped with a car tax and I’m disappointed the minister wouldn’t rule it out today. It’s more proof that the Wynne government isn’t in it for Ontarians.”

Gord Brown demands action from Liberals Gord Brown, Member of Parliament for LeedsGrenville, Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes today demanded that the Liberal government act swiftly to retaliate for the United States’ country of origin labeling (COOL) rule.

The WTO arbitrator ruled that Canada can impose retaliatory surtaxes on $1.054 billion of U.S. exports to Canada as a re-

sult of the economic harm caused by the U.S. COOL policy, once final WTO authorization is obtained. The United States cannot appeal the ruling.

“Since 2011 the WTO has told the US that COOL regulations run contrary to their trade obligations,” he explained.

In June the US Congress voted to repeal the rule but the US Senate has not, he

comments.

These protectionist rules have gone on for far too long and cost the Canadian agricultural industry billions.

“Any delay in enforcing retaliatory measures would be considered a betrayal to our agricultural sector,” says Gord. “It is now important that the Minister of Agriculture press his Cabinet to do what is in the interest of Canadian farm families.”

notes. “I was encouraged to hear that the World Trade Organization ruled against the blatantly protectionist Country of Origin Labeling provisions by the United States.”

The Conservative party has been the only party that has stood resolutely with Canadian farmers and ranchers since the Americans first introduced these anti-trade mechanisms, he

Door-To-Door Licensing

by Deron Johnston Back in the spring of this year, a young man from an energy marketing company came to my home (a common occurrence in town) and told me that he was there to inspect my furnace. I remember that he was dressed in a uniform from head to toe with the company name very visible. He was very convincing and stated that he had the authority on behalf of his company to enter my home.

When asked exactly who had given his company that authority to enter my home and inspect my furnace, he said that he only knew that he was told to do it by his employer.

I told him that he couldn't come in, no matter whose authority he thought he had.

He began to get visibly frustrated because I wasn't letting him into my home. He then attempted to step past me through my doorway, so I quickly stepped in front of him to block him from entering. I couldn't believe that he just tried to enter my home by trying to walk past me! I had specifically told him that he did not have my permission to enter my home! I angrily told him that he needed to leave my property immediately! I went inside and posted a warning for other residents on FaceDec 16, 2015

book and debated phoning the police.

After some research, I discovered that only your insurance company (from which you get your house insurance) might send someone to inspect your furnace, but only after sending you a letter by mail and setting up an appointment with you.

The only reason they might want it done is if you were changing policies or had a new insurance company and your furnace was an older one. I'm concerned about what kind of damage one of these individuals could do if they gained access to one of our vulnerable resident's homes (theft, assault, fraud, intimidating people into signing unwanted contracts etc.).

To keep these people from harming our vulnerable residents, this Fall I e-mailed and sat down to discuss the situation with Fire Chief Paul Hutt. As one of his responsibilities, the Chief oversees By-law Services. I asked if there was currently a by-law that regulated the activities of door-to-door salespeople. He said that he would sit down with the By-law Services Officer and they would look into it and see if there was anything currently in the by-law book. I provided him with copies of by-laws

dealing with this topic from both the City of Prescott and the City of Brockville, so that he had an idea about how other municipalities in the area handled it. I also suggested to the Chief that if there isn't a by-law, that one be created (or if there is one, that it be amended) and include mandatory licencing by the Municipality of North Grenville. This would mean that it would be illegal for these individuals and companies to go door-to-door without a licence issued by the municipality. An application would need to be submitted and approved, as well as a licencing fee that would be charged to any company or individual who wanted to conduct legitimate door-to-door selling in North Grenville (charities and nonprofit organizations would be exempt). Each individual would also have to show proof of that licence when asked for by the homeowner or tenant. If unlicensed or unable to provide proof of their licence, the company and/or employee would be subject to a significant fine.

Give full credit to Chief Hutt: a draft by-law to amend the current Licensing By-law 14-08 has been introduced at this week’s Committee of the Whole. The aim of the amended by-law is “to assist

in policing aggressive sales tactics, and to validate legitimate agencies that utilize door to door sales”. It provides for municipally-issued licenses which have to be produced on request, and will only cover the period during which the salesperson will be operating in North Grenville.

It limits the hours during which someone can call at your door, and sets fees for each license issued.

What’s more, anyone applying for a license has to state the nature of the goods being sold, prove the genuineness of the company selling the product, and provide a current criminal record check. Assuming the amended by-law is approved at Council next week, this is a great improvement on the situation as it existed before, and the speed with which it has been drafted and brought to Council brings great credit on Paul Hutt and his staff.

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UPDATE COUNCIL Monday, January 11 at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Centre.

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Monday, December 21 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.

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE CHANGES Oxford Mills Waste Transfer Station Holiday Hours Tuesday, December 22 – 9 am to 4 pm Wednesday, December 23 – 9 am to 4 pm Friday, December 25 – CLOSED Saturday, December 26 – CLOSED Tuesday, December 29 – 9 am to 4 pm Friday, January 1 – CLOSED Saturday, January 2 – 9 am to 4 pm Solid Waste & Recycling Pick-up – There will be no pick-up on Friday, December 25; the pick-up will occur on Saturday, December 26 instead.

Municipal Office Holiday Hours December 24 8:30 am to 12 noon December 25 CLOSED December 28 CLOSED December 31 8:30 am to 12 noon January 1 CLOSED North Grenville Public Library Holiday Hours Kemptville Branch Thursday, December 24 CLOSED Friday, December 25 CLOSED Saturday, December 26 CLOSED Thursday, December 31 CLOSED Friday, January 1 CLOSED Burritts Rapids Branch Thursday, December 24 CLOSED Saturday, December 26 CLOSED Thursday, December 31 CLOSED WINTER PARKING RESTRICTIONS Winter parking restrictions came into effect on November 15th and last through April 15th. While restrictions are in effect, parking on Municipal roads is not allowed between 11:00 pm and 8:00 am. A vehicle which is parked in a manner interfering with snow clearing or removal operations may be issued a ticket and/or removed at the owner’s expense.

The Municipality of North Grenville 285 County Road 44 PO Box 130 Kemptville, ON, K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-9569 Fax: 613-258-9620 general@northgrenville.on.ca Building: 613-258-4424 Fax: 613-258-1441 Fire Services Info: 613-258-2438 Fax: 613-258-1031 By-Law Services: 613-258-2438 ext. 6 Police Administration: 613-258-3441 Animal Control: 613-862-9002

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5 reasons to donate to the food bank this holiday (NC) Many of us are getting in the giving spirit. One of the most impactful ways people can help their community is by making a donation to the food bank. Here are five reasons why: 1. Food banks help Canada's most vulnerable populations.

More than 37 per cent of people helped by food banks are children and nearly half of the households helped have children. Some of the primary reasons people turn to food banks include sudden illness of family members, job loss and family breakup. People with physical or mental health issues, indigenous peoples, immigrants and refugees are especially vulnerable to food insecurity.

2. Donations make us feel good.

The benefits of charitable giving are well documented. Psychological benefits include a sense of moral satisfaction, improved self-esteem and a greater sense of human connection, but donating to charity may also have health benefits. Charitable giving has been linked to decreased blood pressure, reduced stress and increased life expectancy.

3. The majority of food bank support comes from people like you.

Donations of food and funds go a long way to ensuring people in need don't go hungry. “We are so grateful for the generosity of people across the country,” says Katharine Schmidt, executive director, Food Banks Canada. “While finding solutions to hunger is a complex undertaking, the support of community food banks is a huge step in ensuring we can relieve hunger today.”

4. Donations have a measurable benefit on communities.

Donations are critical to ensuring food banks are able to keep their doors open and lights on, put gas in the trucks to pick up donations and run essential programs that help individuals and families become more self-sufficient. More than half of all food banks operate food-focused programs like community kitchens, gardens and nutrition training, and almost 40 per cent of food banks direct clients to other support like employment, housing and healthcare.

5. Making a donation is simple.

“People can easily make a food or financial donation at any Loblaws, Your Independent Grocer or Real Canadian Superstore,” says Peggy Hornell, senior director of Community Investment. “If everyone in Canada donated just two items at their local store, we could meet the monthly demand on food banks for months to come.” While cash donations give the food bank flexibility to purchase the items they need the most, food donations are also important. More information can be found at foodbankscanada. ca.

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Away in a Manger Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head.

The stars in the sky looked down where he lay, The little Lord Jesus asleep in the hay.

The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes.

I love Thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky And stay by my cradle til morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay Close by me forever, and love me, I pray.

Bless all the dear children in thy tender care, And take us to heaven, to live with Thee there.

Dec 16, 2015

Andrew, Grade 6, Holy Cross

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La disparition des cadeaux! conte rédigé par Hannah et Isabelle

Il était une fois, au château du père Noël, des lutins qui fabriquaient des cadeaux pour tous les enfants du monde. Le père Noël regardait les lettres des enfants. Quand la nuit arriva, les lutins et le père Noël allèrent au lit.

Tout à coup, le père Noël entendit un bruit dehors …Les lutins crièrent que Relf avait volé tous les cadeaux!!! Une seconde plus tard, l’alarme sonna et tout le monde se réveilla, même mère Noël! Tout le monde était alarmé.

Ils voulaient aller sur le dos des rennes mais les rennes étaient trop fatigués. Alors, les lutins décidèrent de fabriquer d’autres cadeaux, mais il n’y avait pas assez de temps, qu’est-ce qu’ils allaient faire…se disait le père Noël désespéré.

Puis Clochette eut une idée! On pourrait lui faire un piège. Quelle bonne idée!

Aussitôt, tous les lutins, le père Noël et Clochette allèrent dans la voiture de neige du père Noël. Il y avait 80 sièges dans la voiture du père Noël. Quand tout le monde arriva, tous les lutins se mirent à construire un énorme trou dans le sol.

Ouaf! Ouaf! Ouaf! Ouaf! jappait le chien de Noël. Un des lutins s’écria que Relf s’en venait…

Fausse alarme!

Le père Noël dit aux lutins de continuer à mettre des branches et de la neige par-dessus le trou. Tout était prêt!

Tout à coup… Pouf! C’était Relf…

Le père Noël demanda à Relf pourquoi il avait fait cela. Relf a hésité et a fini par dire qu’il était jaloux du père Noël. Tout le monde crois au père Noël mais personne ne croit en lui alors il a décidé de prendre tous les cadeaux.

Le père Noël a compris et l’a pardonné et lui a demandé si au lieu, il voudrait distribuer les cadeaux aux enfants avec lui et l’aider.

Relf voulait tellement aller avec lui, il trouvait que c’était une vraie merveille!!! C’est ce qu’il voulait faire depuis son enfance. À partir de ce moment-là, tous les enfants recevaient une note qui disait… votre cadeau vient des lutins, de Relf, du père Noël et de Clochette qui vous aime.

by Scarlett

Seasons Greetings From our staff to you!

613-258-7888

Dec. 16, 2015

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Guerre des Étoiles Noël - Les cadeaux ne sont pas là. dit Ethan.

-C’est moi! dit Jango -Mais comment!!!! dit Gavin..

-Utilise nos épées à bonbons. crie Gavin.

-Tu ne peux même pas faire une bosse. dit Jango.

-Ok, nos fusils à bonbons! crie Ethan.

-J’ai un jetpack tu sais. dit Jango.

-La force! Êtes-vous inutile? crie un lutin rebel.

-Oh oui, la force. Pourquoi on n’a pas pensé à cette solution. dit Gavin.

FFFSSHHSSHHHFF -Non!!!! crie Jango UNE HEURE PLUS TARD… -Voilà Wampa, les cadeaux sont retournés. dit Ethan.

-Avec Jango en prison, il ne va jamais reprendre tes cadeaux. dit Gavin.

Le Wampa leur a donné la plus grande caresse d’amour du monde.

LA FIN!

conte rédigé par Ethan et Gavin Dans une galaxie loin lointaine…Guerre Des Étoiles Noël, Maître Jedi Gavin et Ethan sont dans leurs intercepteurs Jedi pour arriver à Hoth mais le Destructeur Super Star vient et…

-On doit arriver à Hoth! dit Ethan.

-Je suis frappé!

-Moi aussi! crie Ethan.

Les intercepteurs Jedi brisent. Les deux maîtres Jedi arrivent sur Hoth.

-Ça c’est une façon plus vite d’arriver. dit Gavin.

-Voilà une grotte, on pourrait rester là pour la nuit. dit Ethan Une fois qu’ils entrent dans la grotte, ils voient le Père Wampa Noël et ses lutins.

-Wampa c’est quoi le problème? demande Gavin.

-Gavin, je crois que je connais le problème. dit Ethan.

-Quoi? demande Gavin.

Dec 16, 2015

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Cook it safe so your holiday memories are Merry and Bright Food safety tips to keep your holidays healthy 'Tis the season to be jolly. So don't let food poisoning interfere with your festive cheer. Ontario's Acting Chief Medical Officer of Health is reminding all Ontarians to make sure they follow safe food practices this holiday season. Whether it's baking goodies for friends or cooking entrées for family, Dr. David Williams suggests keeping these four safe food-handling tips top of mind: Clean--your hands, surfaces and equipment and do it well. Bacteria can get onto hands, cutting boards, knives, dishcloths, countertops and the food itself Separate--meat, poultry and fish from readyto-eat foods during storage and preparation to prevent the spread of bacteria Cook--your food thoroughly, especially meat and poultry, such as turkey Chill--your foods to four degrees Celsius or lower within two hours of purchase or preparation, especially for high-risk foods like meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products.

Dec. 16, 2015

Other ways to be food safe when entertaining over the holidays include: If preparing food for a party, never defrost food on the kitchen counter before cooking. Thaw meat safely in the fridge or under cold running water to avoid the growth of bacteria that can make you sick.

If hosting buffet style, use warming units or ice trays if the food will be out longer than two hours. Remember: keep the hot stuff hot and the cold stuff cold.

If taking food to a party, keep hot foods at 60 degrees Celsius or warmer, and cold foods at four degrees Celsius or colder.

If taking home leftovers, make sure to refrigerate or freeze food left out at room temperature within two hours of being served. Disease-causing bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature.

Food poisoning can vary from minor to severe, with symptoms appearing from hours to weeks after eating contaminated food. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps and stomach pain. Contact your doctor if you experience signs or symptoms.

According to Dr. Williams, “Food poisoning happens when people eat food that is contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses or parasites. Every year, thousands of Ontarians suffer from food poisoning due to improper food handling in their own homes. Small children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with existing health conditions are most at risk. That’s why it’s important to wash hands and surfaces, and eat foods that are properly washed, stored and cooked this holiday season.”

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The Christian Tradition Once in a faraway land, the lived a guy named Santa and he had 300 Elves. They all made presents for the kids. There were 20,000,000,000 in the world and a population of even more. The elves would make 4 presents for each person. Santa had 2 main helpers Alyssa and Mya. They would make sure that the elves would do their work.

Mya and Alyssa had special powers to do the work. They discovered a little girl named Mallory. She was four years old. She had better powers than Alyssa and Mya put together, even though Mya was 12 and Alyssa was 13. Mallory was so talented that Alyssa and Mya put her in charge of Santa’s schedule.

As a reward, every year Mallory got to ride in the sleigh with Santa. Santa loved her so much that he did anything for her. She would often get asked to open the cards the kids sent to his address at Santa Claus North Pole HOH OHO. Mallory’s greatest gift was when she would go with Santa in the sled on the night of Christmas. They would go to the house, and head down the chimney. Nothing made her feel better than giving gifts to little children.

By Mya

Happy Holidays!

1-800-267-7131 ucdsb.on.ca facebook.com/ucdsb twitter.com/ucdsb UCTV.ca

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Merry Christmas from all of us at B&H Fresh Turkeys arrive Tuesday Dec. 22nd 301 Rideau Street, Kemptville

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

HOLIDAY STORE HOURS Dec 24th 8:00 to 5:00 CHRISTMAS CLOSED - BOXING DAY CLOSED Dec 27th 9:00 to 6:00

613.258.3014

Prices effective: Friday, December 18 to Thursday, December 24, 2015 “We reserve the right to limit quantities to reasonable family requirements”

Dec. 16, 2015

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Farmers’ Market AGM

by Deron Johnston This past Tuesday was the annual general meeting of the Kemptville Farmers' Market hosted by the Branch.

The evening began with a delicious potluck supper at 6:30, before getting down to business.

The beginning of the evening's agenda saw past board member Shaun Vardon giving a review of the 2015 market season. This year's market saw an increase, from 33 in 2014 to 38 full season vendors in 2015. Many vendors also reported that customer counts and sales appeared to be up over last year. Some popular features of the market this year were the musicians and buskers who entertained visitors. The feature event of the season was the annual celebration of local food called 'Marketplates' which paired together vendors and local chefs to produce delicious local food samples. Thanks in part to the generous sponsors of the event, the Egg Farmers of Ontario, B&H Your Community Grocer and the Old Town Kemptville BIA, this year's Marketplates made more money than the previous year. Some other positive signs for the year were the doubling of the number

of 'likes' for the market's Facebook page, launching a newsletter, adding municipal directional signage and receiving government grant money for the first time.

One of the items on the agenda for the evening involved guest speaker Bruce Enloe talking about the Two Rivers Food Hub. Bruce outlined what programs they have at Two Rivers and the important role that their commercial kitchen facilities and equipment have for local food producers. The facilities can be rented to help market vendors process their food in order to sell it and can also help increase their production, especially if they've outgrown their current processing workspace. Even if people are just curious about making their own food, it's a great place to start.

Financially speaking, it was an excellent year for the market. By applying for government funding and seeking out sponsorship for events, the market's opening balance for 2016 could be as high as three times its opening balance for 2015. Another reason for the financial success of this season was the overwhelming support of the market's landlord Jim Beveridge of B&H.

There were nine resolutions to be voted on by the members, with the majority being of the housekeepingtype, such as updating constitutional wording to allow the market to incorporate. Incorporating would allow the market to pursue more government funding to help it grow.

There was also a resolution to update the official name of the market to “Kemptville Farmers' Market” dropping “Kinsmen” from the original title. The Kinsmen are unable

to continue in their current role with the farmers' market and the market thanked them for their invaluable support over the years.

Elections were held to fill the board of management for the next two year-cycle. Four full-season market vendors stepped forward to join the board and were acclaimed – Rob Harsh, Beth Tilbury, Denis Gagnon and Joanne Crock. That left three spots open for 'friends of the market', or weekly (part-time)

vendors, to join the board.

Five people stepped forward to run. This was the first time that anyone could remember that positions were contested.

The candidates each spoke and seemed to share some similar ideas for the future of the market. Some of those ideas were: expanding the market to become an important local economic driver; having the market become a community social hub; and having the market become the focal point for the local

food movement. Interestingly, some of these ideas seem to fit very nicely with the plans for the future of Kemptville College. The three successful candidates voted onto the board were John Barclay, Diana Steadman and Deron Johnston.

With such an ambitious agenda, it should be very interesting to watch what happens over the next couple of years. It sounds like the Kemptville Farmers' Market might have some great things cooking.

Get the perfect Christmas gift

Stories from the South Branch

by David Shanahan

More than 70 stories from the history of North Grenville told in Dr. David Shanahan’s readable style. This 200-page book makes the perfect gift for lovers of history, mystery, biography and fun facts.

Read it straight through, and come back to dip into favourite chapters.

Now available at Kemptville B&H, or by calling 613-258-5083.

Only $20.

Dec 16, 2015

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Five activities for your kids to do over winter break (NC) When kids are home for the holidays, keeping them entertained while cooking, and preparing your house for guests can be a difficult task. Instead of plopping them in front of the television for hours on end, plan some activities that will not only keep them busy but will also help make a difference in the community and the world around them: Have your child help plan a family meal: Let them write the list and come shopping with you to make them feel a part of the holiday planning process. If they're creatively inclined, have them decorate the table or write up menus.

Let them help other kids: Talk with your children about kids who have less than they do. Brainstorm ways they can earn money to help those in need. For fun ways to help other kids look at sites like worldvision.ca/gifts, which has donations like soccer balls, feeding a hungry Canadian family and school supplies for children in need overseas.

Drawing by Maya, Grade 4, South Branch

Visit someone who's lonely: Make a trip to a friend who's sick, a neighbourhood family who are new to this country, or the local retirement home.

Write cards to teachers: Take part of an afternoon for your children to write special cards for their teacher.

Encourage them to thank their teacher for two or three specific things this year.

Share stories together: Look for tales which reinforce the message you're trying to give, like The Gift of the Magi in which two young people give up their most treasured possessions for one another.

Dec. 16, 2015

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8 new family traditions to start today (NC) Traditions are important to every family. They can strengthen bonds and create meaningful and lasting memories. While many traditions are set in stone, try adopting some new rituals this season to get into the holiday spirit and bring your family together.

1. Rent a ping-pong table and host an elimination tournament with your family.

The last person standing gets a free pass for not doing the dishes.

2. On Christmas Eve, implement a mandatory onesie dress code. To document your onesie party conduct a playful photoshoot with your family and friends.

3. Create a playlist of old tunes from your grandparents and parents' generation, your teenage years and classic cheesy holiday songs. Turn up the music and have a dance party.

4. Combat the cold by incorporating tropical items into your holiday menu.

Create Caribbean inspired drinks like coconut eggnog slushies or mandarin orange spritzers and beach inspired snacks like guacamole or crab dip.

5. Dust off and bust out your old school VHS player and watch old home videos from your childhood.

6. Have a slumber party with your siblings by camping out in the living room in front of the tree.

7. Host an ugly sweater craft session and contest with your family. The person with the most 'likes' on social media gets to open the first present. Grab a DIY holiday sweater kit from your local Mark's store or order one right to your house at marks.com.

8. Make breakfast. Four words: “The Wife Saver Recipe.� This breakfast dish that you can easily throw together the night before will save you when your family wakes up with hungry tummies after a night of festivities.

Christmas Morning Wife Saver SERVINGS 4-6 16 slices bread, crust removed sliced ham sliced cheese 6 eggs 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1/2-1 teaspoon dry mustard 1/4 cup minced onion 1/4 cup green pepper, finely chopped 1 -2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 3 cups whole milk 1 dash Tabasco sauce (optional) 1/4 lb butter, melted enough crushed corn flakes, to cover DIRECTIONS In a 9"X 13" buttered pan, put 8 slices of bread that the crust has been removed.

Add ham layered over bread. Lay cheese over ham. Cover with rest of bread.

In bowl beat eggs, salt and pepper.

To egg mixture add dry mustard, onion, green pepper, worcestershire sauce, milk and Tabasco (optional). Pour over bread, cover and let stand in fridge overnight.

In the morning cover with crushed corn flakes.

Melt 1/4 1b butter and pour over top of flakes.

Bake uncovered for 1 hour at 350 degrees F. When baked let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Dec 16, 2015

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By A.J. Grade 5, Oxford on the Rideau

From Cameron, Oxford on the Rideau

Holly by Lily, Grade 4, Oxford on the Rideau

Merry Christmas

DOMESTICÊ&ÊIMPORTÊEXPERTS

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Office:

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By Gavin, Grade 5, Oxford on the Rideau

Dec 16, 2015

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How to throw a party stress free (NC) Not much is as taxing as hosting a large group and things can derail fairly quickly. Stop, take a deep breath, and follow this simple guideline to holiday entertaining that is certain to be merry and bright: Set a budget: It's easy to get spendy when everyone will be scrutinizing the details of your event, but make sure to set a realistic limit. If you plan early enough, there are many DIY projects to spruce up your home décor without breaking the bank. Head to Pinterest for inspiration and your local dollar store for supplies. Whatever your budget, you can throw a great party.

Set the mood: Don't forget an essential element to entertaining: music.

The tunes at any event really help to set the ambience, but with everything else that you're doing, don't add the time-consuming task of building a perfect mix. “Make it easy on yourself,” says SiriusXM Canada. They advise to simply use your computer or mobile device to access commercial-free music to suit every taste through SiriusXM Internet Radio. From Christmas classics to Hanukkah favourites, keep the party going with hits from the past, current club anthems, or traditional tunes. You can listen free for a limited time at www.siriusxm.ca.

Make a guest list and check it twice: Who you invite to break bread with is important to a successful event. Don't feel that you have to invite everyone and their friends in order to be a good host. It's hard not to invite your crazy Aunt Evelyn, but you can probably skip the gossipy co-worker.

Fill their plates: Whether you're having it catered or tackling the job yourself, the holidays are a time for old favourites, but don't be afraid to throw in a contemporary spin. Just don't try a new recipe the day of the party. Test the food out on your family first to avoid serving 50 collapsed soufflés. And make it easy on yourself by only serving nibbles. People love to graze, it's easier to make the dishes ahead of time and this gives you the opportunity to offer variety to a group of diverse eaters.

Dec. 16, 2015

When it's all done: Make sure all your guests have a safe ride home by having a few cabs pre-ordered. Surprise them with an adult “goodie bag” to take along, which may include water bottles, ibuprofen, a recipe for a “hair of the dog” cocktail, and anything that shows you care. Get creative.

And as the door closes behind the very last guest, you deserve to sit down, relax and toast yourself for throwing a sensational holiday bash.

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The First Noel Silent Night

The First Noel the angel did say Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay; In fields as they lay, keeping their sheep, Silent night, holy night!

On a cold winter's night that was so deep. All is calm, all is bright.

Round yon Virgin, Mother and Child.

Holy infant so tender and mild, Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, Sleep in heavenly peace, Born is the King of Israel.

Sleep in heavenly peace They looked up and saw a star Shining in the east beyond them far, And to the earth it gave great light, And so it continued both day and night.

And by the light of that same star Three wise men came from country far; To seek for a king was their intent, And to follow the star wherever it went.

This star drew nigh to the northwest, O'er Bethlehem it took it rest, And there it did both stop and stay Right over the place where Jesus lay.

Silent night, holy night!

Shepherds quake at the sight.

Glories stream from heaven afar Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia, Christ the Savior is born!

Christ the Savior is born Silent night, holy night!

Son of God love's pure light.

Radiant beams from Thy holy face With dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus Lord, at Thy birth Jesus Lord, at Thy birth

Then entered in those wise men three Full reverently upon their knee, and offered there in his presence Their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense.

Then let us all with one accord Sing praises to our heavenly Lord; That hath made heaven and earth of naught, And with his blood mankind hath bought

Dec 16, 2015

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

Extra Words: 50 cents a word. Email production@ngtimes.ca SERVICES Weight Loss Coach “I did it... you can too!” Wendy Moore (613)558-4933. Free consultation.

Eavestrough cleaning, repairs and installation. Free estimate 613.295.0300 House cleaning, interior and exterior, any odd jobs. Free estimate. 613.295.0300 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 Hosting a Christmas event?

The Burritt’s Rapids Community Hall is decorated & fully equipped facility for families, teams or businesses. Starting at $55.00 for 4 hours. Contact Jeff 258.1014 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.

WELLNESS THROUGH NUTRITION Coaching Carol Pillar, R.H.N. Wholesumapproach.com 613.258.7133 Stucco & Parging Services, also specializing in repointing & chinking. Free estimates. cedarrockcontracting@gmail.com 613.818.5187 HOUSEWORK Need Help?

I’m your gal. Will also clean litter and walk dog. Cindy 613.258.1568 SNOW REMOVAL: stairs, walkways, small driveways, roofs. Call Al 613.258.3847 or 613.295.0300 REGAL GIFTS, call or email for Christmas Catalogue 613.258.5558 gilliantrojan@ gmail.com Call Cinderella to look after your Alzhiemer or Parkinson loved one 613.859.4644 Lessons piano, guitar, ukulele, group singing and more. Your place or mine.

613.720.3531 Dec. 16, 2015

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 HANDY MAN specializing in renovations & house staging.

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Free estimates Work Guaranteed call 613 294 2416

YOGA for everyone. Wed and Thurs., at YIG. Call 258-9902 AVON. Are you looking for Avon products, call Joan- 613-2587644 Cindy’s House Cleaning.

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

FOR RENT Hall Basement Studio for rent. Great location for an office, studio or small classroom. $200 per month, inclusive. Contact Inge at 613.269.2850 One bedroom Apt. in town.

NO stairs. $750. plus utilities 613.258.4741 Commercial space for rent 513-b Prescott St. All Inclusive $750/month, Available Oct. 1 613.794.3551 Old Town Kempville 10 Prescott Street Commercial retail space 690 sq. ft. available Imm. 613.295.0552

Pressure treated lumber, 4x4, 2x6 etc. from board walks 10 to 12 feet, make an offer for the lot. 613.258.4519 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 Canon Rebel XT $99.00 ve3mhm@sympatico.ca 2005 Red Impala, new brakes rotors $2,500.00 Don 613.808.4725/613.258.6413 2005 Impala as is $2500 Don 613.808.4725/613.258.6413 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

MR & MRS CLEAN residential/ commercial cleaning. Mrandmrsclean613@gmail.com, 613867-2184

Old Town Kemptville, 113 Prescott st. Commercial retail space, 1,878 sq. ft. avail. imm.

613.295.0552

Firewood-Hardwood cut, split and delivered, $100/cord, Min. 3 chords. Call Peter at 258-5504 or 613-913-0810

HOUSECLEANING- Every working Mother and Father needs a House Wife. Sandi 613-2197277

Old Town Kemptville 28 Clothier St. Commercial retail space 650 sq. ft. avail Oct 1st 613.295.0552

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

Fencing and Deck Specialist, Renovations 20 yrs experience Brian 613 215 0805

Renovated Ground Floor Office 1,900 sqft, 200 Sanders St. Kemptville 613.795.2389

Property clean-up, trees/brush/yard waste, scrap metal, dump runs, anything removed. Call Wayne Scott at 613 286 9072

One Bdrm Apartment, No Pets, NON SMOKING, $700 + utilities 613 220 5014

Rock My House music lessons in fiddle, piano, drums and more. 613 258 5656 Handyman/Contractor with years of experience. No job too big or small. Unlimited references, call for free estimate 613.791.8597

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

HELP WANTED Laborer needed, for construction company Driver’s licence not required, Residents of Kemptville Only Call 613-894-5210”Y

Bus Driver Wanted in the Merrickville/Kemptville area for a single run to South Branch and Kemptville Public schools. $100 bonus to a B licensed driver. For more information, send your reWANTED sume to nanda@wubs.ca or fill out an application at www.wubs.ca Senior needs old car batteries on the Careers page. Wubs Transit. for making weights. Call 613 613-223-9765 Nanda Wubs 2 bdr upper level of duplex in downtown Kemptville, 4 appliances/parking/water incl Call 613 296 5906

258 6254

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Please join our family celebrating Maurice’s 80th Birthday, Sunday, Dec. 27th 2015, 1-4 pm Holy Cross Parish Hall Kemptville, Ontario

Best Wishes only

Quality Grass Horse Hay 4x5 rounds Jon 613.227.3650 Washer & Drywer matched set, fridge white, clean $110.00 pair 613.869.8759

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

Maurice Seguin

FOR SALE

2 bdrm, 218 Prescott, quiet bldg, no smoking, incl. parking, heat, hydro and water. Sept. 1, $1250. Call 258 0849

Kemptville, 512 Clothier, 2 bedroom apartment in a seniors building, $863 + utilities, no smoking, no pets. 613 294 6819

The Voice of North Grenville

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The North Grenville Times is available in Oxford Mills at Olde Porch Primitives 9 Water Street and the Brigadoon Restaurant

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COMMUNITY EVENTS

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Hurt 6. Astringent 10. Matured 14. French for "Red" 15. Not stereo 16. Beloved 17. Excessively dramatic 19. Savvy about 20. Thoroughly wet 21. Paraphernalia 22. Untruths 23. Went ballistic 25. Scoffs 26. Celebration 30. Womb 32. Relating to urine 35. Terpsichoreans 39. Unmarried

40. Unsaturated alcohol 41. Demesnes 43. Sequin 44. A fast gait of a horse 46. Pigeon-___ 47. Birch relative 50. Chasm 53. Bad end 54. Explosive 55. Equip 60. Broad valley 61. Corrupt 63. So be it 64. Plateau 65. Keepsake 66. A covered garden walk 67. Kind of school 68. Stalks

DOWN 1. The products of human creativity 2. Small salmon 3. Tinted 4. Quaint outburst 5. Discourage 6. French for "Friend" 7. A small ornamental case 8. Unassisted 9. Exuviate 10. Minor 11. Wish granter 12. Consumer of food 13. Smelter waste 18. Ribonucleic acid 24. Chap 25. Clique 26. Circuit breaker 27. Anagram of "Sire" 28. Hue 29. Betrothal 31. Coarse file 33. Communion table 34. Bobbin 36. Therefore 37. Part in a play 38. Toboggan 42. Defamation 43. Secret agent 45. Lacking in insight 47. Large African antelope 48. A mixture of sand and clay 49. Handouts 51. Drunkard 52. Hard fats 54. Pack down 56. Gait faster than a walk 57. Not genuine 58. Bit of gossip 59. 10 10 10 10 62. One time around

Dec 20

Candlelight Carol Service - St. Andrew's United Church, Bishop's Mills at 7 pm. Refreshments to follow in the Church Hall. All are welcome.

Jan 13

The New Horizon Club will begin the new year with a pot luck luncheon to be held at the Burritt's Rapids Community Hall (bring your own dishes please). 12 noon. Lunch will be followed by a "guess who?" presentation of snapshots of members taken when they were children.

New members welcome. Call Kim at 613-258-1780 for information about upcoming meeting programs, dates and times.

Jan 27

The New Horizon Club will enjoy an afternoon of cards and games, 2 pm. All adults 55 plus are welcome to join this active club. Please call Kim at 613-258-1780 for information about upcoming programs, dates and times.

Weekly and recurring events Tues

Wed

Thurs

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

Sat

M,W,F

SUDOKU Easy

The Voice of North Grenville

Medium

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 Wed. 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.

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 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 $5.00. Children under 12 $3. All welcome.

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

A celebration of life for Harry Pratt December 20, 2015

Hard

Dec 16, 2015

Over the past days, we have heard Harry referred to as many things: ambassador, mentor, friend, hero – to us he was all of these things, he was also a loving husband, father, daddy and grandfather. To many others he was Uncle Harry, who could always be depended on for a smile, a joke, advice and maybe a donation to the piggy bank. He has forged strong relationships with so many in this community who we know mourn his loss as much as we do. To Harry, family was everything; be this blood relatives, or the larger family he chose for himself.

In the past few days, we have really seen how much Harry meant to so many of you. We are honoured to have shared him with this wonderful community. We have also seen the type of generosity that Harry showed the community, returned to us, in kind.

He was a champion for the “little guy,” be this giving someone a wave or a hug, every person in his life was significant, he never discriminated and always looked out for others, sometimes forgetting himself, giving someone needing a few extra bucks to get by, or helping the Kemptville District Hospital to expand in order to survive and serve the community. To him, these were things he did without a second thought and lessons he had learned from his parents and grandfather, and which he passed down to his children. Our sincere wish is that everyone remembers a time that Harry did that little thing that may have impacted their life, and find a way to pass it on.

To honour Harry, the Pratt family are pleased to invite members of our greater community to gather for a celebration of Harry’s life: December 20, 2015 Visitation with Family: 1-2:15 Celebration: 2:30-4 Location: Equinelle Golf Course Club House

Solution to last week’s Crossword

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Donations may be made to either: Kemptville District Hospital Foundation or the Ottawa Regional Cancer Centre www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

"Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town" You better watch out You better not cry You better not pout I'm telling you why Santa Claus is coming to town He's making a list Checking it twice Gonna find out who's naughty or nice Santa Claus is coming to town

es for h s i W est and Warm ay Season d oli ear the H ppy New Y a Ha

Dec. 16, 2015

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Accessible recreation

By Heather Sansom, NCCP sport coach I am writing in response to the interesting article I saw in this week's paper (December 9) about the Southgate Church outdoor rink. I had actually heard about this rink last year, accidentally, because I am connected on Facebook with some people that attend that church. Then I learned from a report about council meeting proceedings that money had been awarded to it from the municipality.

Before the money was awarded to the church, I don't think anyone in the community was even asked where a good location for a rink would be. I also noted that even if people knew about the rink, it is only accessible to families over a certain income, because it can only be reached by car. The distance of the rink from the downtown is just far enough that walking or cycling are both unsafe and impractical. Low income and single parent families may only have one car or none at all.

That is why almost 40%60% of families in counties like ours cannot facilitate their kids' access to recreational activities after school if the activity is dependent on a car. Placing recreational facilities in a location that assumes a two car, two parent family places the facility out of reach of a large portion of the population, but especially out of reach of the population that needs access to wellbeing resources the most.

I had been wondering for some time why there are no outdoor rinks in Kemptville which would be accessible to families of all income levels.

So I inquired. There used to be. The Lions used to maintain one. Like many towns, the trend in recent decades in

Canada has been to replace access to healthy active recreation for all incomes, with recreation that only those who can pay can afford.

This trend is commonly and openly discussed in sport and recreation conferences and leading publications, since it is linked to the reasons why low income is considered a determinant of poor health.

Simply put, the 'pay to play' mentality restricts health and wellbeing to the privileged few. There are ample reports published nationally showing that the 'pay to play' approach to sport and recreation in Canada has left the majority of the population at a health disadvantage.

So I am an advocate of infrastructure that makes recreation accessible to all in Kemptville. Despite the shiny advertising to attract urban developers and city dwellers out here, a very large percentage of Kemptville and North Grenville residents do not have means for pay-to-play activities.

Most families that can afford public skate times at the municipal centre, for example, have no idea that the fee for a family of four to skate is just out of the range for many families.

Families are lacking resources in Kemptville where they can recreate together.

Even if a parent or both parents are missing, intergenerational, inter-gender recreation creates a healthy atmosphere where youth lacking adult role models can potentially find mentors, or at least be exposed to role modelling and community that replaces gaps.

Now I'm really dreaming, but wouldn't it be nice if decisions about recreation were not made behind closed doors by healthy males with middle class incomes. Wouldn't it be nice if there was a recreation com-

mittee which was composed of people from all income brackets, ages, gender and ability/disability in Kemptville, and which could be consulted and included in all aspects of recreational infrastructure planning. If there were such a committee, then investments in recreational infrastructure would meet the needs of the community, and not just the needs of the privileged few. There are many low-hanging, low cost fruits so to speak that would improve access in our community. Access for pedestrians to Ferguson Forest is one example. But if there were a committee, then decisions could be made which consider the whole.

The fact, widely acknowledged in Public Health and studies on recreational spending, is that spending on infrastructure that promotes free and informal activity for all income levels is the best investment in health B&B Small communities,Engines and reduction of health-care costs. The sad DE 16 15 ad truth is that the people who c combenefit the most from munity recreational assets, are the people least likely to be at municipal meetings, come up with proposals, or write letters to councillors or newspapers..or even read the newspaper, because these are habits of education and relative wealth. To get the people who are served by services on to committees, and to hear what they need and how a service will best be accessible to them, you need to intentionally find them and invite them to participate, and share information with them in a way which is accessible. I realise there is a webpage (also that hardly anyone knows about) for town feedback.

But the lack of feedback and lack of numbers on there clearly indicates that, at the moment, it would be a

joke to say that it meets the criteria of soliciting community need and feedback.

It would be revolutionary for Kemptville, but not for a good marketing company, to actually go and ask various populations how they get their information, and then building communication strategies that are low cost and actually get information to the population.

It's really too bad if a rink is not put in the Riverside Park where it is so easy for kids to go on foot. The park is a hub of intergeneration multi-activity, making it a very safe place for kids and families to do hang-out sports. Whoever plans these improvements on the other side of the highway might

as well post a sign on them saying 'privileged only' because a large portion of the population doesn't know about them, and couldn't access them if they did. We have to stop planning by assuming a two parent, two car household over 80K in income, and start consider-

bandb@xplornet.ca

ing a family with no car, living below the poverty line.

When we have recreation for all, it will be a healthier community for all: a more walkable, more enjoyable, safer community. We don't need to repeat the bad planning errors of suburbs like Kanata and Barrhaven.

Carl Berends • Sue Blaine

REPAIRS TO ALL MAKES AND MODELS OF TRACTORS

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613-258-8913

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Dec 16, 2015

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

South Gower Business Park We ’r e H e r e To S e r v e Yo u

DR. HOWELL ELECTRIC INC. With the winter months upon us, we are bound to see the temperatures drop and the snow falling very soon. If you have been considering the purchase of a home stand-by generator, now is the time to schedule your free in-home consultation. As a Select Dealer for Generac generators, we can recommend the right size of generator to suit your needs. We also offer regular (annual or semi-annual) preventative maintenance to ensure that your generator continues to run smoothly and that any potential warranty claims can be processed hassle-free. Regular generator maintenance is the key to making sure that you have power when you need it most.

It has been almost a year since D.R. Howell Electric relocated our office to 15 Precision Drive in the South Gower Business Park. It has been a pleasure getting to know our neighbours in the area, as well as seeing our customers when they drop by the office.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish our customers, our partners, our family and friends a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

SOUTH GOWER TRUCK REPAIR COMPLETE REPAIRS for truck and trailer, automotive, motorhomes and heavy equipment.

General and custom welding

613.258.7776

Hwy. 43, East of Kemptville, South Gower Industrial Park Dec. 16, 2015

* Dairy & Beef Genetics * On Farm AI Training * SMS Mating Program * Young Sire Program * Farm Supplies * Nitrogen Contracts Select Sires GenerVations Inc. P.O. Box 489, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-3800 Fax: 613-258-7257 www.selectsiresgenervations.com

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Cargo Horse Utility Tow Dolly Truck Decks www.kempro.ca

Dump Flatbed Roll-o Livestock Toy/Car Hauler 613-258-9085 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.6

TIMES The Voice of Merrickville/Wolford

Over 20 Years of outstanding student success and well-being at École élémentaire catholique Sainte-Marguerite-Bourgeoys

Wolford’s Drag Racing Family

by Hilary Thomson Deep in the heart of Wolford lives a family with a need for speed. Mike and Vikki Ogilvie and their daughters Rachel, 16 and Ashley, 18 spend every weekend from May to October drag racing at the various tracks in Ontario, Quebec and Northern US. Mike has always been interested in motor sports. He began tractor pulling when he was 11 years old with his dad and started showing cars at shows when he was 16.

In 2007, he began going to the track with a friend of his who had a dragster. He was hooked. “When the girls were small, he would travel down to the US to Race,” Vikki remembers.

To Mike’s delight, Ashley and Rachel started to take an interest in drag racing and he decided to stick to tracks that were closer to home so he could bring the family along. Pretty soon, both Rachel and Ashley were holding their own on the racetrack.

Since Ashley started racing in a junior dragster at

9 years old, she has won the championship at the Luskville, Ontario racetrack championship twice. This season was Rachel’s first year racing in the super-pro class, against her Dad and other more experienced racers. She won second place and $5,000 at one of the bigger races this year in Wawa, Ontario.

“I think racing has been the best thing for them and us because it brings us together every weekend” says Vikki, who also started racing this past season. “It also teaches them to be responsible, social and how to win and lose.”

Although it sounds dangerous, drag racing is actually a relatively safe and family friendly sport compared to a lot of other types of racing out there. There is no contact and only two cars go down the track at a time. Racers are outfitted with a full harness, special shoes, gloves and fire suits. Mike says he was more nervous than Vikki when the girls started racing because he knew more about what could go wrong. That being

December 16, 2015

said, you are more likely to be injured playing hockey than during a drag race, he says.

Although there is a lot of friendly competition on the track, everyone is there to help each other and have fun. Mike is a mechanic and he is always helping people fix their cars and get them ready to race. “The track is everyone’s summer cottage,” Vikki says. “We have big potluck dinners and bonfires after the racing is over for the day.”

While Ogilvie’s Auto and Fleet Service, the family autobody shop, is their main sponsor, Mike and Vikki would also like to thank Napa Autopro, Stinsons and Tire Discounter for their continued support.

Mike loves the fact that his family has taken an interest in a sport that he is so passionate about and he is extremely proud of his daughters. “ I still sit back sometimes and think about how cool it is,” he says, beaming. “It’s a dream come true.”

Every morning for over 20 years, a wonderful little school has welcomed a bevy of students from junior kindergarten to grade 8 from Merrickville, Smiths Falls, Spencerville, Perth and Kemptville.

Families in those communities can count on École élémentaire catholique SainteMarguerite-Bourgeoys to provide an excellent Francophone Catholic education that will ensure the success and well-being of their children.

According to results released by the Education Quality and Accountability Office a few weeks ago, École élémentaire catholique SainteMarguerite-Bourgeoys is one of the top schools in the province. One hundred percent of students in grades 3 and 6

are at or above the provincial standard in reading. Grade 3 students obtained a perfect score in mathematics, as did grade 6 students in writing.

“The students’ results speak volumes: the caring and devoted staff of École élémentaire catholique SainteMarguerite-Bourgeoys focus on student well-being and implement winning strategies to ensure their success,” said Réjean Sirois, Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est (CECCE) Director of Education.

“This school has been a fixture of the community for over 20 years,” said CECCE Chair Johanne Lacombe.

“Parents who choose a Francophone Catholic school for their children recognize the added value and appreciate the CECCE’s long-standing reputation for excellence.”

With 22,000 students in 41 elementary schools, 11 secondary schools and its school for adults, the CECCE is the largest Canadian network of French-language schools outside Quebec.

For more information: Céline Bourbonnais Acting Director of Communications and Community Relations Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est

Building a Sustainable North Grenville

s e c i r P g t n s i e B Fram Canal Gallery & Frame Shop for 230 St Lawrence Street Merrickville

Dec 16, 2015

613-701-0462 29

ted@canalgallery.com www.ngtimes.ca

History

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Merrickville’s Foundries

by Merrickville & District Historical Society The story of Merrickville’s industrial history is generally told in terms of its successful mills; the lumber, shingle, grist and woolen mills begun by the enterprising Merrick family. Lesser known is the remarkable story of the Merrickville foundries which formed the core of its industrial complex and were largely responsible for the surge of growth that made Merrickville one of the most successful industrial complexes in Eastern Ontario in the mid to late 19th century.

Not only did the foundries supply components for the some 30 other Merrickville factories, but their agricultural and domestic products were shipped all over Canada.

In today’s jargon, the foundry was the centre of excellence around which other manufacturing operations located and prospered.

Now, the water powered mills which produced prosperity have gone and in the old industrial complex all is quiet, except for one remarkable business, a foundry, now operated as the Alloy Foundry and Village Metalsmiths by Karl and Linda Feige. The latest link in a continuous chain, dating back to 1840, it is the oldest continuously operating foundry in Canada and still produces quality metal products, some from original 19th century moulds. Alloy Foundry Company Limited was originally founded in 1840. It has operated continuously ever since and is, therefore, Canada’s oldest

foundry. Today, it’s custom products are shipped around the globe.

Merrickville’s foundry business grew out of the blacksmith trade which always was one of the earliest pioneer services in every settlement. But the blacksmith mainly worked at bending, and shaping metal rods.

It was not until the Rideau Canal provided easy access to pig iron that the foundry business really caught fire. (in some cases literally). Pig iron made it possible to melt and cast large agricultural and domestic implements, products for which Merrickville became known.

The most well known and successful of the several foundries that existed in Merrickville was The Percival Plow and Stove Company. It evolved from several earlier partnerships and in its hey day shipped its agricultural and domestic products all over Ontario.

An early foundry industrialist was Henry Dolfus Smith. Born around 1821 on a farm in Wolford, he apparently came to Merrickville around 1853 at which time he acquired a foundry in the Village, perhaps buying out the earlier foundry of Messrs.

Lilly and Hogg. By 1861, his foundry operated in the location of the present liquor store. He also had an interest in the foundry of William H. Magee on the North side of the Rideau River. One of the most prominent men of his time, by 1861 he also owned a blacksmith shop and a tannery located on the southeast

INCHESTER PRINT & STATIONERY

corner of Lewis and St Lawrence. He became the Reeve of Merrickville and was a controversial member of the Provincial legislature.

It appears, however, that as his business interests broadened, he lost interest in the foundry and by 1859 William Pearson, who had been a bookkeeper for Smith at his foundry had joined William Magee to form Magee and Pearson Foundry Co operating in the same location as the present Alloy Foundry. Their business clearly prospered with Pearson purchasing the fine stone home of William Merrick, and W. Magee building an impressive red brick home north of the River, now the Millisle Bed & Breakfast.

After almost 30 years of successful operation, Mr. Magee died (in 1887) and the business was sold to Roger C. Percival, who created the next link in the chain, eventually with his son, renaming the business “The Percival Plow and Stove Company.”

The Percivals apparently prospered from the beginning owing in part to the fine foundation laid by their successful predecessors. From then until 1913, the Percivals, Roger C. and his son, Tomas Henry Percival developed the company which became known as the Percival Plow and Stove Company, employing 100 men, into the major manufacturing facility in Merrickville.

Roger Croft Percival was born in 1837 on a farm about three miles east of Burritt’s Rapids in what used to be called the Percival Settlement. He continued to farm

until 21 years of age when he established a small foundry in Kemptville. After three years he moved to Pembroke where he started another foundry which specialized in stumping machines and ran it successfully for a number of years. Then late in l887 he heard that William Magee had died and the Magee and Pearson foundry works in Merrickville was for sale. Immediately he returned to Merrickville, came to terms with William Pearson and Magee's heirs and bought the property.

He then sold his business in Pembroke to the Delahey Bros. and moved with his family to Merrickville. By the terms of the agreement dated 30 December 1887, R. C. Percival was awarded the

entire Magee and Pearson foundry works including buildings, machinery, water power privileges and right of way plus one acre of land in North Merrickville for $16,000.

During the years in Pembroke Roger Percival turned more of the business over to his son Harvey, and by the time the business was operating in Merrickville as the Percival Plow and Stove Company, Harvey was in control.

The Percival Plow and Stove Company which succeeded the old Magee and Pearson foundry firm in 1887 remained in business for nearly half a century and for a time it was one of the most eminently successful manufacturing concerns in Merrickville. When at its height the company was the largest single employer of labour in the village, selling plows, harvesting equipment and stoves over much of eastern Canada and even beyond.

Building a Sustainable North Grenville

Rowland Leather Last Minute Shopping?

Visit us for great gifts for everyone on your list.

Bags Backpacks Belts Wallets Scarves Gloves Hats Mouse Pads Cozy Sheepskin Slippers 159 St. Lawrence St. 613-269-3151

Merrickville Christmas Gift Guide rowlandleather.ca

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WINCHESTER PRINT & STATIONERY

Dec. 16, 2015

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Sports

The Voice of North Grenville

Storm Hockey wins Gold

submitted by Lorne Langevin The KDMHA Midget C Competitive Storm hockey team won Gold at the recent 35th Annual Peterbourgh IceKats tournament. On the strength of strong goal tending, solid defense and a prolific offense, the Midget girls dominated their opponents the entire tournament. The Storm clinched the Championship gold in dramatic fashion with a thrilling sudden death shootout win over the Almaguin Gazelles. Head Coach Steve Norton, bench staff Stewart Mann, Tina Flichel Fawcett, Kelly Francis and all the parents are extremely proud of the girl's accomplishment. Congratulations to the entire team for their well deserved win!

Kemptville 73’s reach .500 hockey and moving forward

May I have this dance.......both frustration and emotion can result in looking for dance partners, and this is Hockey with EDGE. Kemptville's Tyson Kirkby with Cameron Bisson found Cornwall's Justin McRae and Eric Verville to two-step with. by the sports guy A road trip across Hwy #43 to the Bear’s den on Friday, our boys were settling in for a battle after their two goal loss in November. 73’s came on strong in the first, with a pass back from Kiriacou behind the net to Tackett, off the wall to Tugnutt all alone to rifle it home at 19:49. At 6:53 Dow picked up the garbage from initial shot from Kiriacou to go ahead 2 - zip. Bears mounted a comeback at 6:02, when Kenney, with assists from Whynot and Caruso, brought them within one to close-out with 15 apiece SOG. Bears continued to claw back as Kenney picked up PPG, with helpers from Caruso and Ruitkowski to even it up at 19:34 of the second.

Kemptville answered back with a go ahead when Kiriacou caught Alavi going hard and flipped to Dow for his second tally at 10:43. Bobby

Dow flew up the wing to bury it for his hat-trick at 4:57, and 73’s fed the Bears a 15 to 7 SOG. Final frame belonged to our 73’s, with O’Flynn pulling a Subban clearing over the heads of attackers, and speedy Gaudet calming down the puck for a shifty back hander over sprawling Lubbesmeyer to put us ahead by 3 at 13.14. A PPG at .55 as Gaudet initialed a cycle play with Cameran on wrap-around and Row banged it home for a 6 - 2 victory.

No question of who receives the Mark’s WW Hat Hard award for his hat-trick plus domineering play.

Outstanding PK’s from Kemptville to only allow one goal on 6 attempts.

Discipline still seems to be a issue…more shots, less seat-time would make the coaching staff extremely happy.

Our boys seem to have

their eyes on the prize and would love to see you at their next home game to show them support on their endeavours.

Sunday’s contest against the Cornwall Colts was a fast and furious end to end action for both clubs, with equal opportunity in the first frame. Kemptville outshooting Cornwall by 10 - 8 Second stanza: our boys came on hot and heavy, with Watson from behind the net to Tugnutt, and Tackett kept banging away at lose puck to force it over line for first marker at 13:13.

Tackett will pick up another point at 13:03, when Guy controlled the wall over to Watson so Tackett could bury it. After a consultation with the official and goal judge, it would be reversed and give Kemptville a 3 goal lead. O’Flynn held the line through to Tackett, as Kiriacou punched in the rebound, but was waved

off. The official requested a conference with the goal judge and reversed his initial decision, awarding another goal at 2:41. 73’s peppered the Colts with 21 - 13 SOG. Final period: McFarlane, with help from MacDougall, spoiled Brooks attempt for a SO at 17:45. Then on a PP Hale back-and-forth to Tackett to Guy in the slot, just as the PP ended to make it a 4 1 score at 11:45. Frustration took over common sense, as the Colts decided maybe they would have better luck at the sport of boxing, with them resulting in losing two of their key players with game misconducts. At 10:13, after a broken play with PPG, MacDougall, with the help of McFarlane and MacDonald, posted the final goal for Cornwall. 73’s added more salt to wound

as Tackett and O’Flynn tictac to Guy to rifle it off the cross-bar for a PPG at 9:05 to walk away with a 5 - 2 win and introduce their fans to another fantastic stopper from the junior ranks. Outstanding PK once again….. still have to work on their discipline issues.

Mark’s WW Award is given to Jason Tackett for his 5 point afternoon.

Hockey with EDGE!

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The North Grenville Times

Last Words

Over the past four months, the communities of Merrickville-Wolford and North Grenville have offered love and support for local resident, Michelle Brazeau, as she battled Pancreatic cancer. On Sunday morning, she succumbed to the disease, surrounded by her family.

Just three days earlier, Michelle posted a letter of thanks on Facebook. It is reproduced here, with permission, in hope that those not active in social media can know the impact of their generosity. It has been an incredibly difficult journey for the Brazeau family; the immediate and continued assistance of so many has been their candle in the darkness. Here then, are Michelle’s last words.

want to thank Karen Holowaychuk and husband and Richard Sevazlian for your generous support!! I would not have been able to do any of my Homeopathic medicine without you! I'm am forever grateful! I also want to thank everyone who spent the time to bring cooked meals and goodies to our home. I wanted to thank all my Aunts and Uncles for all of their help since this started. Spending nights in the hospital, coming to help with the kids and the house and organizing my life!

You have all been life savers.

Thank you for the nice visits.

I feel so loved by everyone and so blessed to have you all in my life! There have been so many fundraisers for me and my family. All of these different fundraisers have given me the power to fight this horrible disease the way I wanted to!

It has given me the option of adding homeopathic medicine, it has given my husband the chance to spend each day at home with me, it has given me the ability to have my parents care for me and my children. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart!

To my dearest friends The past few months, I have been trying to find the words and the emotional strength to write you all. I wanted to share with you what's been going on in my life.

I started having some strange symptoms in late June. It took a few months of many different tests and numerous doctors’ appointments. Early August, I was diagnosed with Stage IV pancreatic cancer.

This was a total shock and completely devastating news.

The next week, I started my first Chemo treatment. I knew from the beginning I also wanted to do other Natural treatments. The first few months were very difficult as I was admitted to the Ottawa General due to numerous complications. Finally, I was healthy enough to go home. My husband Rolly and my kids Claudia, Halle and Rowan moved into my childhood home where my parents and family could help me fight this!!! I had many fears at the beginning like how would we financially survive, what will I do with my kids, will I lose all my hair? Luckily I have received a tremendous amount of support which has changed the path of this journey and eased many of my fears!!! On the plus side, I still have all my HAIR!! The last two months I've spent my days going to countless Doctors appointments, Chemo treatments, Vitamin C treatments and doing any extra homeopathic Dec. 16, 2015

treatment available to me!

Recently I received my latest results from my Cat scan and unfortunately they were not in my favour. The Cancer has grown. I have started a new Chemo and continue my homeopathic treatments. I am a fighter!

The amount of support I have received has been incredible!! I am overwhelmed and truly honoured. The spirit of our community has brought me to tears numerous times.

It has been just incredible.

While going through such a horrific time in my life, I am still able to see that there is so much good in this world. I have the best support system anyone could ask for! I have the most loving and caring husband and three amazingly beautiful children. My parents are always by my side and give endlessly! I have four sisters who are my best friends and would do anything for me. My wonderful friends who come visit and show me all their love! My mother and father in-law who are always willing to help and are always there for me anytime I need them. You are all the rocks in my life! Your smiles, love and positive energy keeps me fighting every single day!

I wanted to thank everyone of you who has supported me!

It's been so heartwarming to see all the love and support!

From the Gofundme, The Boat Cruise, The North Grenville BBQ, The Purple Pumpkins, YukYuk's, Merrickville Fundraiser Night, The Bottle

Drive/Bake Sale, the Purple Bracelets, Scentsy parties, the Oxford Mills Craft Show, Holy Cross School, Carleton Tavern, the Hintonburg Economic Development Committee, My Suite12(cupcake Drive) and The branch Restaurant (hope I'm not forgetting any) we are so grateful!!

I want to thank everyone who donated, who bought pumpkins or bracelets and all our local stores who donated to any of the charities. I also

The Voice of North Grenville

Building a Sustainable North Grenville

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Love, Michelle and Family

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