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The Voice of North Grenville

Vol. 5, No. 7

February 15, 2017

What a bunch of Sweethearts!

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by David Shanahan The 2017 North Grenville Community Sweetheart Brunch took over the community rooms at the NG Municipal Centre last Sunday in an event that raised almost $25,000 for local charities. Hundreds of people passed through the doors throughout the morning, keeping the volunteers busy, cooking, serving, clearing tables, selling flowers, watching the cloakroom, and all the myriad of tasks needing to be done to make everything a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. Even before the doors were scheduled to open on Sunday morning, a crowd was already lining

up, waiting and eager for what they knew would be a tasty and musical morning. As MC, Dermid O’Farrell said, after nineteen years of organising the Brunch, the Committee knows what it’s doing and things run very smoothly indeed. More than a hundred volunteers were involved at all stages of the Brunch, with a large contingent of young people joining in - a wonderful thing to see - including the Boy Scouts and their leaders. The atmosphere was fantastic, with the Knights of Columbus dressed in their finest attire, the servers in their chef hats and aprons, the live music from five different musical acts filling the air. Todd Fortin, of the Holy Cross Council

5333 Knights of Columbus, told me that one of the musicians, after their own set, went outside and played their fiddle to entertain the line-up of people waiting to get in. All the musicians volunteered their time and talents, and their contribution added a great deal to the triumph of the day. The nineteenth Sweetheart Brunch was almost too big for the venue - and the venue is the biggest in North Grenville! For an event that began in Holy Cross school, then moved to the church hall, the amazing growth in popularity of the Brunch is an indication, not only of the skill and commitment of the organising committee, but also of the sup-

port the people of North Grenville have given this community-wide fundraiser over the years. In those nineteen years, around $150,000 has been raised, and all of that money went back into the community through organisations such as the Kemptville Youth Centre, the Beth Donovan Hospice, Scouts Canada, Kemptville and District Home Support, the Kemptville District Hospital Foundation), the North Grenville Community Service Council and North Grenville Accessible Transportation. The local businesses which sponsor the celebration of community, including O’Farrell Financial continued on page 2

Celebrating Heritage Week! See Inside

The North Grenville Times continued from front page and Tallman Truck Centre, come from every kind of commercial operation in the municipality. When I asked Todd and Dermid why so many people work so hard to put on such an event, they were quite clear in their responses. Dermid simply said: “We’re blessed here, and we should give back when we can. That’s the kind of people we have here and in our church”. Todd’s comment was: “Why do this? Why not do it? Hundreds of hours spent organising

the Brunch isn’t a lot when it’s spread around 100 volunteers”. Even as the food was being served and the music played, people were asking how they could get involved and help next year. It was a room full of Sweethearts, coming together, as we like to do in North Grenville, to have fun, enjoy the music and the company, and do something to support our friends and neighbours. Dermid was right: we are blessed.

A Taste of Ukraine

city, eating out of garbage cans and vulnerable to human trafficking gangs and the dangers of life in a port city. Last year, the work was expanded and can now house 26 girls at a time, and over 105 girls have graduated from Hope House since it began. Hope House offers the girls a safe and loving home and a supportive family where they receive the necessities of life – nutritious food, health care and clothing, but also receive an education and life skills that come from living in a loving and supportive home. The other outreach World Hope Canada pursues in Odessa is First Step Centre, a drop in centre for “social orphans”. These are children who may have one or two parents, but those adults are not taking care of their children and are leaving them to fend for themselves,

by David Shanahan A unique dining event is taking place at the new Rideau Restaurant on Friday, February 24, as a fund raiser for World Hope Canada's work in Odessa. A Taste of Ukraine will bring authentic Ukrainian food to local residents, with perogies, cabbage rolls, and of course, Chicken Kiev on the menu. This is one of a number of events World Hope Canada is putting on over the coming weeks, with two more scheduled in March. The Taste of Ukraine dinner will support two projects that World Hope Canada has been operating in the city of Odessa, a port city on the Black Sea, in co-operation with a local agency. Hope House was opened in 2006 as a place of refuge for girls living on the streets, even in the sewers of the

The Voice of North Grenville

long before they are old enough to do so properly. At the Centre, they are fed, can wash their clothes and have a hot shower. They may also go home with some food for later. Richinda Bates, Director of Marketing with World Hope Canada, tells of a family of five young children, the youngest of whom is eight months old. The oldest brings them to the Centre each day to be fed and cared for. There is no father in the picture, and the mother only came by the Centre to make sure that they were there, before taking off again and leaving them. These are the people World Hope Canada is helping with the funds raised at the Taste of Ukraine dinner on February 24. World Hope Canada is headquartered here in North Grenville, and is now a national organisation working in a number of coun-

tries. The Taste of Ukraine Dinner is the brainchild of another local resident, Ella Leson, whose daughter had visited World Hope Canada’s work in her ancestral land of the Ukraine, and decided that she could help the work by cooking! Last year’s event was a sell-out success, and Ella is cooking up a Ukrainian storm for this year with a number of other volunteers! Tickets are $35 and are available from worldhope. ca/events, by calling 613482-1499, or from the New Rideau Restaurant or CoBa Studios in Merrickville. Doors open at 5pm and dinner is served at 6pm. An interview with Richinda is available on our web site and Facebook page in which she talks more about the work in Ukraine and the Taste of Ukraine Dinner: www. ngtimes.ca.

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on his own, Burton Cummings has amassed more hit records than just about any other Canadian performer in history. These Eyes, Laughing, No Time, American Woman, Share The Land, Hang On To Your Life, Albert Flasher, Sour Suite, Orly, Glamour Boy, Star Baby, Clap For The Wolfman, Dancin’ Fool, Stand Tall, I’m Scared, My Own Way To Rock, I Will Play a Rhapsody, Timeless Love, Break It To Them Gently, Dream Of A Child,

Saturday night’s headliner for Kemptville Live 2017 has been announced, and it’s another major event. Burton Cummings and his band will be on the Chez106 stage on Saturday, July 22. Few artists have achieved the level of public success and critical acclaim that Burton Cummings has enjoyed in a dazzling career spanning more than forty years. Whether as lead singer and songwriter with the Guess Who, or

Fine State of Affairs, Love Dreams and You Saved My Soul all bear Burton’s distinctive stamp. His voice has been rated among the finest in rock music. As a member of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, Canadian Walk of Fame, Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame, Prairie Music Hall of Fame, six-time Juno Award winner, recipient of the Order of Canada, the Order of Manitoba, the Governor-General’s Performance Arts Award, 22 SOCAN Awards and several BMI (Broadcast Music Industry) awards for over 1 million airplays of his songs, Burton Cummings is one of the most celebrated rock artists in Canadian music history. With the Guess Who he earned the first US platinum album by a Canadian artist, and on his own the first quadruple platinum Canadian-produced album. Altogether, Burton has earned some 80 platinum and gold record awards.

Recently, the best-selling book The 100 Top Canadian Singles ranked American Woman the greatest Canadian single of all time. He also enjoys a world-wide stature shared by only a select few Canadian artists. The consummate artist, performer and professional, Burton possesses an extraordinary gift for entertaining. As a concert draw, he is second to none delighting audiences from 10 to 10,000. His most recent album, 2008’s critically-acclaimed Above The Ground, was his first ever to feature all original songs by Burton. Fans and critics alike glowed with superlatives citing the album as his best work in decades. The confirmation of Burton Cummings has completed the line-up of headliners for this year’s Festival, with David Wilcox on Thursday, Dwight Yoakam on Friday and Gordon Lightfoot on Sunday. Other acts will be announced as they are confirmed.

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Royal Canadian Legion Provincial Bursary Program Applications for the Royal Canadian Legion Provincial Bursary Program are still being accepted. If you are a student who is currently attending a college, university or any other post-secondary institution, you may qualify for a bursary of up to $500 per each academic year. Applications must be received by Provincial Command before Friday March 31, 2017. Eligibility : • Ex-Servicemen or currently serving members of the Canadian Forces (Regular, Reserve and Merchant (Navy) and their children and grandchildren. • Ordinary and Life members of the Royal Canadian Legion and their children and grandchildren. • Associate members of the Royal Canadian Legion and their children. • Ladies’ Auxiliary members and their children and grandchildren. • Step children and step grandchildren may be considered. Application forms are available at branches of the Royal Canadian Legion. Application forms can also be downloaded from the Legion’s Provincial web-site. www.on.legion.ca/remembrance/youth-programs/bursaries Please note: completed application forms must be mailed to the address shown on the application form. Forms sent by email or fax will not be accepted. For further information contact the Legion Branch nearest you or Douglas Brunton Zone G-3 Bursary Chairman at 613-258- 5111 . E-mail d.c.brunton@sympatico.ca.

Horses Helping People Sesquicentennial Photo Contest

Submitted by Pat Babin Kyle Bellehumeur, Equine Specialist/Manager of the Therapeutic Equestrian Centre in Kars, introduced his Youngsters of Yore audience on Thursday to Tranquil Acres, a safe and supportive environment to connect with horses and oneself, a place of tranquility, peace, and inspiration. It has been said that horses change lives. A recent client had this to say: “It had never occurred to me that the connection between a human and a horse would be so strong, After spending time with the horses, I am absolutely surprised and amazed by how we can share emotions and our stories with mammals of such power.”

Here’s a wonderful opportunity for all residents of North Grenville to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime photo contest focusing on North Grenville’s celebration of Canada’s 150th Anniversary. All photos must be taken within the borders of our Municipality by North Grenville residents. Sponsors of the contest are the Youngsters of Yore, a group affiliated with the Friends of the North Grenville Public Library. Time frame for the competition is January 1, 2017, to November 15, 2017. Photographs (up to 3 may be submitted by each individual) must be printed on 8 1/2 x 11 glossy or matte photo paper (without borders and unframed). Name, address, and phone number of each entrant must be printed on the backside of each photo along with date photo was taken. Title for photos is optional. The top three photos will receive awards. All submissions will eventually be displayed. Photos may be deposited in a special container at the North Grenville Public Library on The Centre also pro- Water Street. vides H.E.L.P., a program developed for military and first responders affected by Post-Traumatic Stress and/or Operational Stress Injuries. Amazing! The hyper vigilance of horses translates into the ability to sense and/or tune into nonverbal cues. Horses reflect back to people what is happening in terms of their internal emotional and psychological process. The horse responds to your inner state without judgment. You may wish to contact Mr. Bellehumeur at his address: 7405 Third Line Road, Kars, ON, K0A 2E0, 613-489-5294 kymailto:kyle@tranquilacres.ca

Pancake dinner in Oxford Mills

Why cook dinner on February 28th, when you can come to Maplewood Hall in Oxford Mills for a traditional pancake dinner, complete with LOCAL MAPLE SYRUP, for only $5? At the same time you'll be helping the Oxford Mills Community Association raise funds for community projects like the new Gazebo in Maplewood Park. The OMCA is having this annual fundraiser on Pancake (Schrove) Tuesday, February 28th. The cost is only $5.00 for Adults, $3.00 for Kids.

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Kemptville & District Home Support’s transportation services has almost tripled in requests over the past four years. Volunteer drivers are needed for both local and for long distance drives, with many requests to go to medical appointments in Ottawa. Another NEW area for volunteers is as ‘companions’ to accompany clients into Ottawa and assist them into the hospital and to the appointment. This is especially important for trips to the Civic Hospital where parking is very scarce and often at a distance from where the client is dropped off. This would make it so much easier for the volunteer driver knowing that there is another volunteer along for the client. Please contact KDHSI at 613-258-3203 for more information on how you can help out, they would love to chat with you.

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Kemptville Horticultural Society February news

WANTED

by Catherine Johnson As we welcome 2017, I am sure you are all dreaming of the upcoming gardening season. This is the time of year for searching through the seed catalogs and drawing up the plans for next summer. It has been a while since I have caught you all up to date on our many activities. The Kemptville Horticultural Society welcomes all men and women, from novice (or wannabe) gardeners to master gardeners. Some members have well established gardens and some come to get ideas on where to start. The society meets the third Wednesday of the month at the Kemptville Pentecostal Church (1964 County Road 43) at 7:30 pm. Each month we have a guest presentation following our short business meeting. At our November meeting we welcomed Vanessa from the Dill Flower Studios in Kemptville. She offered us a lively and informative workshop on the art of Christmas arrangements. She created some beautiful Christmas arrangements that we auctioned off at the end of her workshop.

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After taking a short break for the busy month of December, we met again in January for our AGM and yearly elections. We are pleased to welcome back Diane Tappin as our President. Most of the last year’s executive remained the same, with one exception, Joyce Wood, who filled the one vacant spot on the board of directors. After the business part of our meeting, we welcomed Laura Moses (a Master Gardener) who gave an enthusiastic demonstration on container gardening…. Pots that WOW!! Who knew how much containers could change and enhance the look of a garden? Looking forward to the upcoming gardening season, The Kemptville Horticultural Society is pleased to announce our biannual garden tour: 2017 Bud to Bloom Garden tour to be held on June 24, 2017. Tickets will be available to be purchased later in the spring. This year we are offering 8 outstanding gardens as part of the tour, as well as a tea to be held at the Community Hall in Burritt’s Rapids. We are also pleased that Rideau Woodland Ramble has agreed to

be the 9th stop on the tour and we thank them for their offer of plants that will be used to decorate the Burritt’s Rapids hall. The gardens will range from smaller beautifully landscaped gardens located within the town of Kemptville to larger country gardens, some that showcase both outstanding hard and soft landscape ideas. Be prepared to be amazed. Please make sure you save the date and watch for more information to follow. Proceeds from the garden tour will go towards our two Horticultural Bursaries awarded to students from the area. You are welcome to be our guest at your first meeting. Our next meeting is on Wednesday February 15 at 7:30 at 1964 County Road 43. If you are interested in joining, yearly membership fees are $15. Whether you are an experienced gardener or someone moving into one of the many new homes being built in North Grenville, we will have something of interest for you. There is also plenty of free gardening advice available during coffee and refreshments. We look forward to meeting you.

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Linking Hands Dundas County’s Tea and Talk is coming up on Tuesday, February 28 from 10 am to 11:30 am at The Gathering House, 2 Water Street, Chesterville. Nancy Galway, Carefor’s elder abuse prevention coordinator, in conjunction with an OPP representative, will be speaking on the very important topic of recognizing Internet and telephone scams. Invitation is open to all. Please join us for this free event, which will include refreshments. Pre-registration is required by Friday, February 24. Transportation is available for seniors; please inquire at time of registration. Email scasselman@houseoflazarus.com; online at www. linkinghandsdundas.ca, or call The House of Lazarus at 613 989 3830. Please note that we are also looking for volunteer drivers for our transportation program, which will allow isolated seniors to attend the Tea and Talk events.

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New Horizon Club members enjoy annual Valentine Tea

The members of the New Horizon Club kicked off a busy winter/spring program on January 11 with a pot luck lunch. A power point presentation of photographs and albums of members and activities enjoyed over the thirty-four years since the New Horizon Club was formed was the highlight of a meeting held on January 25. The annual Valentine Tea was enjoyed on February 8, with red being the dominant colour of table settings and hats. Tea was served by Janet Glaves, Jean Travers, Helen Brazier, Karin and Klaus Wierspecker. Ruby Crawford was congratulated on her 95th birthday with members singing a special song with lyrics by Janet Glaves. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 22 at 2:00 pm, and will feature Bruce Harrison, Vice-Chair of the Police Services Board of North Grenville. Bruce will speak on the topic “Senior Fraud”. All adults 5+ are welcome to join the New Horizon Club. The annual membership is $12.00. Meetings are held in the Burritt’s Rapids Community Hall. Most meetings begin at 2:00 pm. Special event meetings with meals begin at 12:00 noon. For program and membership information please call Janet at 613-269-2737.

Building a Sustainable North Grenville

Janet Glaves and Ruby Crawford

Selling Food to Ontario workshop at Two Rivers service the tri-county area

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from its physical location in the Gallipeau Centre on County Road 43 in Smiths Falls. For general information, visit www. tworiversfoodhub.com.

Farmers and small food processors are invited to the Two Rivers Food Hub on March 8 to learn how to access buyers for their products. The low-cost, one-day Selling Food to Ontario workshop, created by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) is designed to help existing local food growers and producers reach untapped sales channels. The Two Rivers Food Hub and OMAFRA collaborated on a similar event last year; popular segments from that session will be returning (with updates) and several new modules have been added to make sure there is value for both new and returning participants. “Grocery retailers, chefs, and other food buyers are looking for local product and they want to buy local,” says Jessica Kelly, a direct farm marketing specialist at OMAFRA. “Yet, when it comes to buying from farmers and small February 15, 2017

food processors, they say there’s often a gap between what they need, when they need it, and how they do business.” Specialists in business management, business development, food regulation and food safety will guide business owners and managers through topics ranging from market channel opportunities, food regulations, food safety, pricing for profit, packaging and labelling. Participants will also learn where to get more information and support. Space is limited for this low-cost workshop ($15 registration fee includes coffee, snacks and a local foods lunch), register today at www.ontario.ca/chbi. The Two Rivers Food Hub is a connection point for buyers and sellers of local foods. Its mandate is to support the small farm agricultural community around the two rivers that run through Lanark, Leeds and Grenville counties. The food hub is well positioned to 5

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A Youth Council for North Grenville, part three by Deron Johnston The Federation of Canadian Municipalities created the Municipal Youth Engagement Handbook, which was “designed to highlight the resources, strategies, and tools that elected municipal officials and public administrators alike can employ to address the challenges of engaging and recruiting young Canadians as future municipal leaders and workers...Currently, young Canadians do not perceive their interests to be represented by the democratic institutions they have at their disposal. This is clear from the declining youth voter turnout that communities across Canada have experienced at all levels of government”. The Township of Rideau Lakes (which is part of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville) is doing something about this, by creating its own Youth Council. The Municipal Council has created a Terms of Reference document, and Parks and Recreation Ontario, which is helping with some of the

financials (including securing grant money through the Trillium Foundation), created a Memorandum of Understanding. The mandate of their Youth Council is: To generate better understanding of the recreation and leisure needs and opportunities for youth. Recognize how recreation and leisure can be used to help youth engage and excel in their community. To provide advice and recommendations to Council on matters of youth. To work in a distinct and/ or complimentary role with other sector organizations. To implement a program of work consistent with its mandate, and within the approved resources allocation. Other duties as assigned/ approved by Council. The Youth Council also has a set of deliverables and performance measures and consumes only thirty hours of municipal staff time per month. An assigned municipal management team member acts as the principal advisor to the Youth Council, which will report to Council

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discovered, however, there was often a darker and deeper issue at hand when I actually heard some people express a deliberate desire to keep young people from participating in any sort of leadership or governance roles”. Doug said he ran into one community leader who thought that young people should wait their turn, just like he had to. At first Doug thought he was joking, but then realized he was serious. This type of mindset is very destructive to the future of rural communities. There are funding and information resources available to make a Youth Council possible. I believe there are intelligent, caring and hard working young people that could make a significant contribution, if given this opportunity. Ultimately, if the current political and community leadership has no interest in engaging young people, we’ll continue to push our youth away and we may end up sacrificing our future in the process.

regularly. The Youth Council will receive $1,000 to offset meeting costs, and an additional $2,250 for costs associated with training, if the Youth Council wishes to use it. Rideau Lakes is one of five rural municipalities in Ontario that will be provided with seed money and access to a ‘community mentor’ to help establish their councils. Consider this type of project as a kind of leadership succession planning. Many businesses and organizations around the world understand the importance of succession planning. Communities can ensure a strong future by preparing young people to become the community and business leaders of tomorrow. Doug Griffiths, in his book ’13 Ways To Kill Your Community’, states: “Succession planning is important for all communities, yet I have found very few communities planning for succession in leadership positions as older members approach retirement. I originally believed in every case it was merely an oversight or lack of understanding of the importance of succession planning. I

Budget 2017 tries to close a gap by Deron Johnston Every municipal budget has an enormous amount of information contained in it. It takes a lot of time to unpack it, read it, analyse it and then write or ask questions about it. How do you choose what to write about? Here’s a couple of items that have a big impact on the future fiscal health of the municipality. Currently, the North Grenville Municipal Centre operates, on paper, at a loss of $1.77 million per year, with revenues of $1.35 million and expenses of $3.12 million. Municipal staff stated that residents should keep in mind that they don’t charge themselves for using the office space they occupy in operating the municipality. In addition, the revenue from all of the programs and camps that use the Municipal Centre is not allocated to the building, but to the department that runs the programs. Lastly, municipal staff don’t want to charge too much money for rentals, which would make it difficult for local teams, organizations, and groups to afford to rent February 15, 2017

municipal space. If prices go too high, revenues for rentals could go down, because there would be less interest in renting. The debt still owed on the NGMC is almost $8.5 million dollars, plus interest. The debt is not a mortgage, but a somewhat complicated series of bond offerings and two other loans from CIBC. One loan from CIBC, for $1.6 million, is expected to be paid off in 2026, and the other CIBC debt of $708,000 in May 2020. There are several different interest rates involved in these debts, but, overall, the last of the series of debts are two bonds that are currently scheduled to be paid off by 2035. This type of complicated financing was apparently common for large municipal projects back when the NGMC was built. Quite often, time-lines for applying for provincial and federal grant money don’t line up exactly with major municipal projects, so this type of financing was necessary to take advantage of grant monies. The anticipated property tax rate increase of 2% in this budget will actually be higher in real dollars. Resi-

In 2010 the change was -5% In 2011 the change was -5% In 2012 the change was -3% In 2013 the change was 0% In 2014 the change was 2% In 2015 the change was 6% In 2016 the change was 2% In 2017 the change is anticipated to be +2% With the knowledge that revenue transfers from the provincial government to municipalities have been declining since the late ‘90s, it’s difficult to understand some of these changes. They contributed directly to the depletion of municipal reserves, because of the reduced revenue. These reserves needed to be replenished through the recent tax rate increases that we’ve seen over the past three years and the long term commitment to future increases. Combine this with the provincial infrastructure deficit that municipal staff and council keep referring to, and it appears that we have a long recovery ahead of us from these revenue losses. Thankfully, the municipality now has a long term financial plan to help with this recovery.

dents will be paying more in dollars than the 2% increase, because of the recent property value increases from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation. This means that the municipality will collect an extra $470,000, approximately, from residents above the amount projected to be collected by the 2% property tax increase. So in real dollars, the property tax increase will really be about 3%, thanks to the combined increase in municipal property taxes and the increase in municipal property values. People have asked why the municipality raised the property tax rate over 6% in 2015 and has since committed to a series of consecutive 2% property tax increases in future budgets. It appears that, over the past ten years, there have been a series of questionable decisions made surrounding tax rate changes in North Grenville at budget time. Here’s what the tax rate changes have been: In 2006 the change was -12% In 2007 the change was +7% In 2008 the change was +4% In 2009 the change was -5% 6

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Democracy inaction by Deron Johnston This past Monday night's Committee of the Whole meeting had something on the agenda that I'll bet that not many people were aware of. That something was a resolution on whether or not Council wanted to change the way residents vote in the 2018 municipal election. There was a previous report from Corporate Services on this subject, and Deputy Clerk, Katie Valentin, spoke briefly about it. Specifically, the question was whether or not to use a ranked ballot. With all of the recent national media attention, and subsequent negative backlash towards the federal government, for backing down on its promise to eliminate our current 'First Past The Post' voting system (part of the justification was a lack of public support at countrywide town hall meetings), you would've thought that this would be an important conversation to have with North Grenville residents, as this is fundamental to our

local democracy. What is a ranked ballot? Ranked ballots are used in voting systems (such as our current 'First Past The Post' system) in which voters are able to rank candidates based on their preference. For example, a resident would choose someone as their first choice, second choice, third choice etc. instead of just voting for one candidate. Why ranked ballots? “Ranked ballots have the potential to give voters a greater say in who is elected and increase voter engagement”. Ranked ballots may also reduce strategic voting, which may occur when a voter decides not to pick their first choice candidate in an election because they think their first choice candidate may not win the election. They can also reduce negative campaigning - since voters can rank multiple candidates, there is an incentive for candidates to appeal to voters, not just as a first preference vote, but also to gain a high ranking from supporters

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor: I am writing to let yourself and fellow Kemptvillians know that we really do have “Local Heroes” here, who, at times, are missed by us all. I wish to correct this in some way by praising the wonderful people at Randy Rose Automotive, who answered my call for assistance, as follows:I am a volunteer driver, for Kemptville District Home Support Incorporated ( KDHSI), and had occasion to drive a lady into The Ottawa General Hospital at 0645 Friday, 3 February. During the “ride-in” my car started to experience an

The North Grenville Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc. Marketing Gord J. Logan gord@ngtimes.ca 613-258-6402 February 15, 2017

overheat problem, when just exiting Honey Gables, just south of the airport on River Rd. I literally “limped along” for the remainder of the way, to the hospital, expecting, at any moment, the engine to “seize up” on me. I managed to park the car on the third floor of the hospital car park, having despatched my passenger to her appointment, on time! My problem was now to have a way of returning my passenger back home following her appointment, and also get my car back as well. – Enter the “heroes of hour”,- Randy Rose Automotive, particularly Todd, who, without any hesitation, said

of other candidates. Why was this being considered by council? This was not a mandatory initiative handed down by the provincial government. The provincial government wanted “to allow for more choice in how municipal elections are run. Ranked ballots are an additional tool that would give municipalities more flexibility to meet the needs of their local communities”, according to Ontario. There was some discussion among staff and Council about it, but the overwhelming message was: “it's too confusing”, with both staff and Council acknowledging that they didn't really understand ranked ballots. The confusing part of the issue is not the method of voting itself, but rather the interpretation of what happens after votes are cast, and how to determine who wins. There was a belief that there may not be enough time to inform people properly about ranked ballots before the election in 2018. I stood up and requested that Council not proceed to

the vote on the resolution, but rather agree to a motion to delay the vote until after they've conducted a public meeting on the subject, in order to give residents an opportunity to learn about ranked ballots and decide whether they like it or not. Despite the fact that the subject of ranked ballots is confusing to staff and council, it doesn't mean that some residents won't understand it. Why reject something that you don't understand? Why not figure it out first, before rejecting it? Why assume that, because you don't understand something, that others won't too? Despite the additional concerns raised by a resident who also stood up to support the delay request, the request was denied and the vote took place, with Council unanimously voting not to adopt ranked ballots for the 2018 election. Choosing not to adopt ranked ballots for the 2018 municipal election was probably the best choice. Frankly, it might take a significant amount of time to educate

all residents on how it works. The concern is that Council voted on this without any consultation with the residents of North Grenville. We regularly have municipal public meetings on a variety of topics that have little or no interest to the majority of residents. These meetings are most often mandatory through the Municipal Act, or the Planning Act. But why, on this most fundamental of subjects (and rights), were residents not consulted? Was the public not consulted because Council wasn't forced to? Did Council not think that this subject might be important to residents? This is not the first time that this Council either ignored the wishes of residents, or didn't even bother to consult them on something important. Our democracy should be respected, protected and supported constantly, not just once every four years.

“Stay put, John, and we’ll bring you a “Loner” car and then we’ll drive your car back for you”. A few minutes later, after some sober thought, probably prompted by the chosen driver, Billy, who probably didn’t want be stranded either, he informed me that their tow truck was on its way, carrying the “loner”, which would then be swapped for my car, assuming that mine would drive, from the hospital car park, down to his tow truck, It did! I was , subsequently, able to drive my passenger home safely and check, with Rose’s, on my car problem. The solution wasn’t directly forthcoming, so, this being a Friday, Todd insisted that I keep the

“Loner” for the weekend, whilst they got some spare parts for mine, and would do some “test” driving over the weekend to ensure that their rectification action was going to do the trick. I needed a reliable car for the following Monday and also for Tuesday for a very early (0500) run into The Ottawa Heart Institute. Todd agreed that I should keep their car until this was completed and mine would be returned after more extensive road running of it was achieved. Today, Wednesday, I went to pick up my car and deal with the expected charges for the rescue, the “Loner”, and repair costs. These he informed me would be zero, due to the fact that I had some work done with them, within the past month. I was utterly amazed and a little bit flabbergasted at their generosity and the very high ethical standards, with which they carry out their maintenance and ensure customer satisfaction. Through their immediate action I was able to, not

only deliver, two passengers safely and timely, but to also maintain the “standards of excellence” that Kemptville District Home Support Incorporated (KDHSI) continually provide to our community. Had their action not been forthcoming then an alternative driver would have had to be despatched, by KDHSI, to ensure that my/our passenger got home safely, without any inconvenience. Many thanks to Todd, Billy and Pat and the rest of the folk at Randy Rose Automotive. They are a great example to us all and, I feel, deserve my small recognition, especially after having had to overcome the loss of their garage last year, due to a fire. John Baldwin, Kemptville

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Dear Editor: I have read with interest the recent letters regarding property taxes. For the past ten years I have been employed by various donor agencies to map land parcels/properties throughout Africa. I see the effects of no Mailing Address 10 Water Street Oxford Mills, ON, K0G 1S0

Graphics Accounting Micheal Pacitto cfo@ngtimes.ca mike@ngtimes.ca 613-258-4671 613-710-7104

The North Grenville Times office is located at 215 Sanders Street, Suite 106 on the main floor. Side entrance of building. Please call ahead to book an appointment, or take your chance and drop in! payment of property taxes by people who think governments will magically provide services: no piped water; raw sewage running through streets; unhealthy living conditions; minimal education; poor infrastructure, roads and transit; unemployment; lack of almost all services; and rampant corruption. Our property taxes go a long way to providing these services and minimize corruption. We must remain diligent in making sure our elected officials spend our money well, but we must all expect to pay taxes for services and a good quality of life. And expect to pay more: everything is costing more and it is not acceptable to expect the same level of services and pay the same level of property tax. It is quite simple really..... if you pay taxes, you get rights and can then demand services. Pay no taxes and you have no right to complain and deserve little. Andrew Triscutt

Staff Reporter Deron Johnston deron@ngtimes.ca Staff Reporter Hilary Thomson hilary@ngtimes.ca

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Municipality Matters

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Budget items to ponder by David Shanahan As Council consider the 2017 Municipal Budget, there are a number of interesting items that are being examined. Some of these are certainly noncontroversial, such as the Oxford Mills Fire Station expansion, which will cost $98,056.16. All of the money for this will come out of the Reserves funds. The station came out of the Fire Master Plan and Fire Underwriters Accreditation, which made the installation of a fire station in Oxford Mills essential in order “to maintain the best possible fire insurance ratings for rural residents”. Other line items are designed to increase transparency and communication between Council and the public. To that end, the Budget includes the sum of $2,500 to cover Webcasting of Council and Committee of the Whole meetings. The money will cover the installation of a camera and software to allow live webcasting and

archiving of meetings held in Council Chambers. The Project justification provided in budget documents states that the webcasting would “ allow the public to watch meetings in real time. Will allow unlimited viewing of past meetings”. Council, it says, “has expressed interest in using webcasting to continue to enhance communications”. Council wants to keep us fit and healthy, and, to that end, will be spending $716,556 on the new County Road 44 Multi-Use Pathway. This may seem a bit steep, but the pathway will also include installation of underground infrastructure to supply services to the new developments in the North West Quadrant. Of that amount, $197,316 will be taken from Municipal Reserves, and the remainder from the Province. This is in the form of a grant from the Ontario Municipal Cycling Infrastructure Program. Work is expected to be completed this year. The budget documents state

velopments has changed a great deal in that time. Wetlands, which were originally part of the attraction strategy for residential development in the area, have been drained and tree cover has been removed completely. There is a great deal of confusion, a lack of transparency, about what is happening in that area, and why the municipality required a tract of the land before approving zoning changes for the new Public School. The budget documents admit that “the estimated infrastructure costs the NW Quadrant identified in the current DC study do not appear to accurately reflect current construction costs”. Development Charges are now considered insufficient to cover infrastructure demands in the Quadrant, possibly because housing density appears to be significantly higher than originally approved by previous Councils. The documents note that: “The results of the study and any additional Special Area Levy that might result from it would only affect properties in the NW Quadrant”. Why this study needs to contracted out by the municipality is unclear, as are the possible results on both the municipal budget and residential taxes in the future.

that “The pedestrian link was identified in the 2011 Integrated Trails Strategy. Will allow Settlers Grant and eQuinelle residential developments to use Active Transportation links to connect to the NGMC [Municipal Centre] and businesses north of County Road 43.” More controversially, $45,000 is to be spent on what is being called a NW Quadrant Special Area Charge Levy Study. This will be opened for tenders, so the actual cost is not really known yet. The reason for the study, the Municipality says, is to deal with the fact that the “current Development Charge Bylaw is not up for review until 2018-19, but the NW Quadrant is under extreme development pressure and a scoped study to review the Development Charges for that area would provide a more accurate picture of the future financial needs”. Plans for the development of the NW Quadrant have been before Council for quite a few years, but the nature of those de-

NorthWest Quadrant Map Dated: August 16, 2011

Departure of United Way Leeds & Grenville Executive Director The United Way Leeds & Grenville Board of Directors would like to announce the departure of our Executive Director, Melissa Hillier. “At this time, the Board is taking a step back to look at our strengths and our opportunities for growth; so that United Way Leeds & Grenville can continue to make the greatest impact possible on the most pressing social issues experienced in our community,” said Shawn Souder, Board President. “I would like to thank this amazing community for their

February 15, 2017

continued generosity and their support of the United Way,” said Melissa Hillier, departing Executive Director. “I know that it has been tough for organizations to meet their targets, both in Leeds Grenville and the surrounding communities. However, I am very proud of the staff and volunteers, for raising well over three-quarters of a million dollars, in both 2015 and 2016.” Melissa will be moving to Seattle to join her husband, Dr. Matthew Rodrigues, as he pursues his career in Cancer

UPDATE UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL Monday, February 27 at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Centre. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Tuesday, February 21 at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Centre. For agenda information, please visit the Municipal website at www.northgrenville.ca/document-library. COMMITTEE MEETINGS Police Services Board – Tuesday, February 21 at 1:30 pm at the Municipal Centre

FAMILY DAY SCHEDULE CHANGES

The Municipal Office, Public Library and Waste Transfer Station will be CLOSED on Monday, February 20. There will be NO pickup of recycling or solid waste on Monday, February 20. Pick-up for the week will be delayed by one day.

CANADA DAY COMMITTEE MEMBERS NEEDED

The Municipality of North Grenville is seeking applications from individuals interested as Appointees to the Canada Day Committee during the term of Council (through to November, 2018). Candidates must be 18 years old, a Canadian citizen and a resident of North Grenville. Application forms are available at www.northgrenville.ca, by contacting cpominville@northgrenville.on.ca or at the Municipal Office. Please submit applications by Friday, February 24, to the Municipal Office, 285 County Rd. 44 or cpominville@northgrenville.on.ca. Further information is available by contacting the Clerk at cpominville@northgrenville. on.ca or 613-258-9569 ext.110.

2017 DRAFT BUDGET

The 2017 draft budget along with a variety of budget related documents is available on the Municipal website at www.northgrenville.ca. The budget will be on the agenda for the February 21 Committee of the Whole meeting and the public is invited to provide feedback directly to Council and staff via phone call, email, letter, Service Request, Facebook or Twitter.

2017 BURN PERMITS AVAILABLE ONLINE

In accordance with By-Law 33-12, a Burn Permit is required to conduct open burning on property located outside of the urban area. New in 2017, the entire application and renewal process is available online at www.northgrenville.ca. The online process also allows you to receive direct notification of special conditions such as fire bans and fire risk level. Burn permits are also still available at the Municipal Office or at the Fire Hall at 259 County Rd. 44 and the fee is still $15. Please check conditions prior to burning by calling 613-706-1770.

WINTER PARKING RESTRICTIONS

Winter parking restrictions came into effect on November 15 and last through April 15. 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 www.NorthGrenville.ca

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TIMES tion is complete. United Way Leeds & Grenville is a non-profit agency that supports 22 local partner agencies in the community. Its mission is to improve lives and build community by engaging individuals and mobilizing collective action. UWLG is dedicated to bringing people together to build vibrant, and caring communities. For more information, please visit www. uwlg.org.

research. “I have seen firsthand, how committed the Board, Volunteers and Staff are to changing lives locally; I will be cheering them on from Seattle,” added Melissa. Please keep an eye out for details regarding the Executive Director position, as they will be posted through local media and at www.uwlg.org in the near future. The Hiring Committee is targeting May 1st 2017, to have a new Executive Director in place. In the meantime, Melissa has committed to remain with the organization until the transi8

Gord Logan

Marketing Consultant Phone 613 258 6402 Email: gord@ngtimes.ca

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Celebrating our Heritage

The Voice of North Grenville

The locks at Burritt’s Rapids in the 1840's. One of the first bridges across the Rideau River can be seen on the right. It had a clearance of 28 feet for boats of all kinds using the new Canal.

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February 15, 2017

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The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Celebrating our Heritage Next week is Heritage Week in Ontario, so it is time to take our annual look back at some of the places and events which form part of our common history. This is Canada’s 150th anniversary, but there are other, more immediate anniversaries to note also. The Rideau Canal opened 185 years ago this year, opening the way for newcomers to come to and settle in this area. In 1917, the new Kemptville Agricultural School was established with a grant of $50,000 from the Ontario Government. Kemptville also marks its 160th year since it was incorporated in 1857. Remarkably for many, it is already sixty years since the great celebrations that marked its centenary. We mark the past in the photographs and the memories we share. We mark the present in the stories and reports of the week, and we look to the future too. Our thanks go out to the North Grenville Historical Society for the use of some of the photographs that form part of their archives, maintained in our name and for our inheritance to the future.

February 15, 2017

Kemptville celebrates its 100th birthday, July 3, 1957

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The coming of the railway to Kemptville in 1854 forever changed the destiny of the Rideau Canal. The advertisement from 1854 (below) shows that the Canal steamboats were being connected with the new railway line, which at that point only ran between Prescott and Kemptville. It would be another year or two before the line went all the way to Bytown.

First train: This photograph, which comes from the Kemptville Women’s Institute records, claims to show the very first train to arrive in Kemptville in 1854. Given the poor quality of the picture, it is quite likely a correct description.

Management & Staff are proud to be part of the Heritage of North Grenville

CPR station: This station was located on Wellington Street and served the town from the mid-1880's until it was closed and demolished in 1975

613.258.6821

2794 Hwy 43, Kemptville

Grahame’s Bakery The Family’s Choice Heritage wood-fired brick oven operating commercially since 1885 115 Clothier St. E., Kemptville 613-258-2317 www.grahamesbakery.com

February 15, 2017

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The North Grenville Times

1936 High School blaze

On this site, in 1888, the original Kemptville High School had been built, and, in January, 1936, that school burned down. Classes were then held for various periods of time in the following locations: the Town Hall, the Salvation Army Church, the Wallace Block building, the Kemptville Agricultural School, the United Church, and the Odd Fellows’ Hall. Tragedy struck again when, in March of the same year, the Public School burned.

This photograph of the Kemptville High School on fire in January, 1936 was taken by H. L. Morrison, the minister at St. John’s United Church at the time, who lived in Kemptville from 1930 until 1938. A keen amateur photographer, he saw the school on fire from his home nearby and took this picture, which he then sold to locals as souvenirs. His records show that he managed to sell about 100 copies.

Before

After

The Voice of North Grenville

It was decided to build a combined public and high school. The cornerstone was laid on August 15, 1936, and the school was officially opened by Dr. Duncan MacArthur, the Deputy Minister of Education, on December 21, 1936. This was most remarkable, as the country was in the middle of a Depression and war clouds were starting to form in Europe. The new school combined the needs of both a high school and an elementary school. It included a combined gymnasium and auditorium, a general shop, a home economics room, and a science lab. Probably one of the most obvious reminders of this time period is in the signs over the doors of the school. One door has the words “Kemptville High School” and the other door has the words “Kemptville Public School”. In 1937, enrolment in the Public School was 188, and in the High School 150. New courses in shop, home economics and agriculture were introduced and the necessary equipment purchased. An important innovation of the time was the division of the home economics room into units of instruction in cooking, sewing, laundry, and other household practices. From “School Days Past”, NGHS, 2014.

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CLASSIFIEDS

The Voice of North Grenville

First 10 words are FREE for North Grenville and Merrickville/Wolford Residents. Extra Words: 50 cents a word.

SERVICES

PLUS more. Murray 613.519.5274 nmmuir@gmail.com

P R O FE S S I O N A L PA I N T E R - Commercial & Residential Mobile Foot Care - TOES IN 613.276.4583 Kemptville area NEED 613.858.4383 Complete Home Proper t y Clean up: house cleaning, dump runs, etc. Call Al’s Clean up services 613.258.3847 613.295.0300 Snow removal Tractor with loader and blower. Call Owen 613-297-7526 Call Laurel 613-314-8321 for MARY KAY products and parties and WELCOME WAGON visits in North Grenville Extra pounds slowing you down? Solutions with Nutrition Coach Carol Pillar R.H.N. 613-258-7133, support@wholesumapproach. com

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Experienced Home Daycare - Space available now F/T (24m-3yrs) & F/T Mch1 for 0-24m. Kemptville in Equinelle. Hrs: 7:30 am-5 pm. Teachers scheduling available (details available). Angela 613-795-4294 / smile4mom@hotmail.com(25/1) Private piano lessons, home daycare, younique products call tara 819 664 6448 11/16) Well Grounded Foot Care Advanced/ Diabetic Mobile Clinic. Anita Plunkett R.P.N. 613294-2122 wellgrounded2016@ gmail.com Bartlett Built Welding & FabricationSteel, Aluminum, Stainless Call Kevin 705-933-2517 Mr & Mrs Clean residential/ commercial cleaning. For quote mrandmrsclean613@ gmail.com or 613-867-2184 SNOW BIRDS-PLAN NOW. Qualified professional house sitter, now booking assingments-short or long term - 613.258.5284 DJ’S RENOVATONS. We’re committed to your Renovation. We do it all. 613.698.5733 Looking for AVON products? Please call Joan at 613-258-7644. The Plumb”Mur” Plus Bathroom February 15, 2017

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Commercial popcorn machine for sale. Asking $950.00. 1/10 Call 613-2584161

FIREWOOD FOR SALE. Hardwood Kemptville area 800 sq ft ga- $100 per cord delivered. SoftIf you want to purchase AVON rage available April 1, 2017. wood $75 per cord delivered. Call products, call Joan 613.258.7644 $1000 monthly plus utilities Peter 613-913-0810. Oxford Mills 613 258 2502 (2.17) 5pc Peavy Drum Set w/High Hat Frame Local! Country Ways C u s t o m P i c t u r e f r a m i n g 2 bedroom, Kemptville $950 +. Good Condition $400.00Don (613) Central location, private bal- 808-4725 or (613) 258-6413 613.322.6484 dam5@bell.net cony, heated floor, natural gas. Certified Packer can help you Clean, quiet, references required Panasonic air conditioner 10,000 BTU good shape $175 Call 613 prepare for your move. Cinderella 613.263.5476 258-2753 613.859.4644 Furnished room for rent $500. a Speech therapy for children month in Oxford Mills call 613- Used Power Lift Recliner Burgundy, asking $500 613-852-7031 in Kemptville and surrounding 294-7420 area. www.wellingtonkids.ca Large one bedroom in the Fort FIREWOOD (Merrickville)DRY& 613-206-1627 Town of Prescott.675.00 + utili- READY to Burn SOFTWOOD(PINE) $49.00/ CHORD HARDWOOD(ASH) Brendan Plunkett: Finishing Car- ties, Call 613-325-9540 pentry Call or e-mail for a quote. $95.00/ CHORD PICKUP 613 269 613-986-4533 plunkett1994@ Winter rental, cosy 2 bed- 3836 room furnished house near hotmail.com Merrickville. Jan-Mar. no LARGE COLLECTION of ANTIQUE Rural Home Care services-Afford- pets/smokers. References, DINING ROOM TABLES & CHAIRS able, personal, professional & $1500/mo all incl. 258 4207 $119.00-$195.00 VG CONDITION 613 269 3836 experienced care for your loved one. 613.868.0356 WANTED Men’s skates, size 12. “DR XLR8, ONE ON ONE Computer Training: Senior”. $25. Call 613-821-3664. Sigma Computer Systems is now Looking to rent Farmland for offering 1/2 hour classes on Sat- crops in the North Grenville 3 b e d / 2 b a t h H i g h R a n c h urdays. Please call 613.258.9716 area. Call or text 613-262- in Osgoode only $358,000 for more information 1204 w w w.330 0annet te.com 1d:1002232 HANDY MAN specializing in reno- EXPERIENCED CAREGIVER vations & house staging. We do it NEEDED TO START WORK IM- Nexus Walker: $200 (Retail $417) all CALL 613.294.2416 MEDIATELY FOR MOTHER Adjustable height, basket, hand IN LAW SUFFERING DE- brakes, folds. 613 258-6732 You Name It, I Can Sew It. Call MENTIA. I am offering 4-5 Rhonda at 258-5248 hours per day on Saturday, Baby bassinet, Navy/white $40. M o n d ay,We d n e s d ay, a n d oo Merrickville 613.803.7274 Heartland Fence & Deck. Renova- Friday, at a rate of $20.00 tion specialist. Brian 613-796- per hour. ALL APPLICANTS Mixed hardwood firewood. $100 9790 SHOULD EMAIL DIRECTLY AT per cord delivered. Two cord "jimmyethendricks@gmail. minimum.Charlie 989-2768. Property clean-up, trees/brush/ com yard waste, scrap metal, dump Mixed hardwood firewood, $100 runs, anything removed. Call WANTED 2 OR 3 BEDROOM APART- a cord delivered. jon 227-3650 Wayne Scott at 613 286 9072 MENT ON ONE FLOOR, KEMPTVILLE 613.258.0964 DIGITAL ASTHMA monitor never Rock My House music lessons in used $40. Call 613-215-0669 fiddle, piano, drums and more. Senior needs old car batteries 613 258 5656 for making weights. Call 613 Four Snow tires on alloy rims for G.M. 225x60x16. Call 613 258 2604 258 6254. Handyman/Contractor with years of experience. No job too big or HELP WANTED small. Unlimited references, call FOR SALE for free estimate 613.791.8597 Shinglers and labourers required Free composted horse manure immediately. Please call 613SEWING: Weddings to altera- for pickup. Email elmcrestques- 599-0010 tions at STONEHOUSE SEW- trian@gmail.com ING. Call Sharon at 613-224PART TIME HELP WANT3182. Selling sets of dinner dishes ED FOR SHIPPING AND etc. 613-258-4161 1/10 RECEIVING 1-2 DAYS A WEEK CALL KEMPTVILLE FOR RENT Diamondback Stationary Bik- WINDOWS & KITCHEN eRetail 800$, asking 200$ 613.258.7464 Kemptville , Large ground floor Must Sell 613-215-0651 one bedroom, $750.00 plus utiliSend in your ties , 613-325-9540 Crate and Barrel Rojo letters to the Editor Red Tall Cabinet for sale Large room for rent with - 82”hx16”dx54”w. Askto house privilege, Oxford Sta- ing $1,000. Send email to tion, long term or short term. tineboyer@gmail.com editor@ngtimes.ca Jessie, 613 867 9021. 13

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FULL TIME HELP WANTED Cash Crop Farm, Morrisburg area, looking for two full-time employees to join our team. We use state-of-the-art equipment and farming techniques to transition into strip-till/no-till planting. Must have strong mechanical aptitude and ability to use Trimble GPS equipment. Positions are full-time year-round with land clearing, maintenance and trucking filling in off-seasons. Will train suitable candidates who have some of the skills we are looking for. The farm uses modern equipment and has a large well-equipped shop to keep our operation on the cutting edge. Send resume or questions to cedarlodgefarms@gmail.com

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CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Aroma 6. Fraud 10. Wail 14. Depart 15. Be dressed in 16. River of Spain 17. Courtyards 18. At one time (archaic) 19. Wreaths 20. Slacker 22. Alley 23. Ballet attire 24. Chemical cousin 26. Spurs 30. Evil spirit 31. Bovine 32. Chills and fever 33. Permits 35. Express audibly

COMMUNITY EVENTS

39. A porch 41. Modern sing-along 43. Swelling under the skin 44. Playthings 46. Angers 47. Female sib 49. Cook in hot oil 50. In order to prevent 51. Expensive 54. Enemies 56. Not under 57. Eyeglasses 63. Was a passenger 64. Armored vehicle 65. Exchange 66. Performance bookings 67. If not 68. Consumed 69. Midmonth date 70. Encounter 71. Go on a buying spree

DOWN 1. Close violently 2. Of higher order Feb 16 Youngsters of Yore, 1:30 pm, Library Program Room. Guest speaker: 3. Nobleman Jenny Reed-Communications Officer KDH. 4. 57 in Roman numerals Feb 20 Kemptville Cancer Support Group, St. John’s United Church, Prescott 5. Inclined St. upstairs, 2 pm. Guest speaker: Debbie Girard, Good Night Bed Co. 6. Confection and Debbie will help us understand the need to have good mattresses, 7. Crooked special pillows and other accessories. 8. Backside Feb 28 Annual Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper. Christ Church, Burritts 9. System of weights and measures Rapids, 4419 Donnelly Drive, 5-7 pm. Pancakes, maple syrup, sausages, 10. A snapper fish baked beans, dessert, coffee/tea and juice. Free will offering. 11. Perpendicular to the keel 12. Pee 13. Show-off 21. Association of craftsmen 25. Not sweet Weekly and recurring events 26. Donated 27. Matured 28. Harsh or arduous Mon Kemptville Quilters Guild, 2nd Mon./mth at the Kemptville Pentecostal 29. Dressmaker Church, 1964 County Road 43, 7 pm. New members welcome. 34. Shoot up abruptly Modern square dance club, Grenville Gremlins,7:30-10 pm, Leslie Hall 36. Ripped on Clothier St. 37. Anagram of "Seek" Kemptville Cancer Support Group, 3rd Mon/mth. at St. John’s United 38. A musical pause Church, Prescott St., 2 pm. The aims and objectives of our group is to 40. Found on a finger bring together friends who have just been diagnosed with cancer, going 42. Heretofore (2 words) through treatments, survivor and needing others to reach out to. All 45. Umbrage welcome. For info, please call Ellen Vibert-Miller at 613-258-7778. 48. Scheme Tues BNI Networking Group Breakfast, Grenville Mutual Insurance Building, 51. Welsh dog 380 Colonnade Dr, 7- 8:30 am. Info: 613-918-0430. 52. Egg-shaped Bridge- St. John’s United Church, 12:15 pm. Cost $4. All levels of bridge 53. Marsh plant players welcome. Info, contact Sandra at 613-258-2691. 55. Satisfies The Branch Artisans Guild, North Grenville Community Church, 2659 58. Wan Concession Street every 3rd Tuesday, 7 pm. New members welcomed! 59. Poop 60. Tardy Wed NG Photography Club - first Wed./mth from 7-9 pm, at the Grenville 61. Biblical garden Mutual Insurance, 380 Colonnade Drive. See ngphotoclub.ca for info. 62. Transmit Klub 67 Euchre every 2nd & 4th Wed. beginning Sept. 14, 1:15 pm, St.

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The Voice of North Grenville

John's United Church. Everyone welcome $5.00. Bingo- 1st & 3rd Wed., Kemptville Legion, 1 pm. All welcome. Refreshments available. Kemptville Legion cribbage night, 2nd and 4th Wed. Start time 7 pm. All welcome. Come and play for fun. New Horizon Club, 2nd & 4th Wed. at the Burritt`s Rapids Community Hall. Meetings at 2 pm. All adults 55 plus welcome to join. For info re programs and membership call Janet 613-269-2737. Probus Club of North Grenville, 3rd Wed./mth. Everyone is welcome to join us at 9:30 am at St Paul's Presbyterian Church Hall for fellowship. Holy Cross Church monthly suppers, 1st Wed of the month, starting October 5. Adults $8, Children $5. All are welcomed. Bridge - St. John’s United Church, 6:15 pm. Cost $5. All levels of bridge players welcome. For more info, contact Sandra at 613-258-2691. North Grenville Toastmasters - Meeting 1st & 3rd Thurs., 7 pm at O’Farrell’s Financial Services, Cty Rd 44. Info, call 258-7665. Oxford Mills Community Association meeting- First Thurs. of each month at Maplewood Hall, 7 pm. All welcome. Info – call 613 258 3683 Twice The Fun Games (200 Sanders St. Unit 103) Game Night, 2nd and 4th Fri., 6-10 pm. Bring your favourite game or borrow one from their library. All ages welcome. Friendship Lunch, Leslie Hall, hosted by local churches, 11:30 am. Donations accepted but not expected, everyone welcome. Kemptville Legion breakfast, 8 - 10 am 3rd Sat. of every month., 100 Reuben Crescent. Adults $5. Children under 12 $3. All welcome. Kerith Debt Freedom Centre – Provides free and confidential coaching to help you get and stay out of debt, 2nd & 4th Sat. of each month. Call 613-258-4815 x 103 or www.kdfc.ca to request an appointment. Twice The Fun Games (200 Sanders St. Unit 103)“Organized Play” and "Learn to Play" events, 1-4 pm . No experience needed. Kemptville and Area Walking Group meet at Municipal Centre at 8 am. Call Gail 258-1148.

Solution to last week’s Crossword

the north grenville

TIMES Peter Peers

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Roads and bridges

In the early 1930's a major survey was conducted on the size and weight of vehicles using the bridge crossing the Rideau River at Beckett’s Landing. The results were surprising and the bridge was closed to vehicles over five tons in weight. The old Beckett’s Bridge was removed, and plans were in place to replace it with a newer, fixed bridge. During the winter of 193536, cars passed through gaps cut in the snow along the banks of the Rideau, and crossed over on the ice. Vehicles that were too heavy for the ice were directed to Burritt’s Rapids where they used the bridges there to cross the Rideau. Before a new bridge could be built at Beckett’s however, surveyors were sent in to consider a new location further to the east. The line of road from Kemptville to Beckett’s and then joining the highway on the far side, contained a number of sharp curves and there had been many serious accidents as a result of vehicles failing to make the corners. It was decided to change the road layout and allow the highway to run in a straight line across the Rideau beside the golf course instead. A new bridge across the Rideau was built in 1937.

Beckett's Bridge. The swing bridge was demolished in 1936 and replaced by the new highway bridge (below). It was replaced, in turn, by the present one.

The newspaper article above is from 1928 and will sound familiar to those store owners on Prescott Street who experienced bridge closures in the last few years. This article dates from 1899 and is discussing the road from Kemptville north to the bridge at Beckett's Landing (today's CR 44). It followed a different route back then, and the article talks about the plans to alter the line of the road to what it is today. If you go to where River Road meets Beckett's Bridge road, and look south, you will see the old road heading back towards Kemptville.

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Hear Ye! Hear Ye!

The North Grenville Times is very pleased to announce the printing of a 150th Anniversary of Canada Souvenir edition which will commemorate the unique character and accomplishments of the people, places, and events that we are proud to be a part of. This special edition will be published June 23rd just prior to Canada Day.

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Kemptville College - A Century of Education

The original College campus in 1925 Kemptville College was established as Kemptville Agricultural School in 1917, with an investment by the Ontario Government of $50,000. The School’s existence in Kemptville owed much to the influence of a local resident

with a position within that government. On September 21, 1916, the Kemptville Agricultural Society were holding their Annual Fair. The guest of honour was the Honourable G. Howard Ferguson, Ontario’s Minister of Lands, Forest and

Mines and local boy made good. The country was in the middle of World War 1, and the area needed some good news, which Ferguson was happy to provide. Stealing the thunder of the Minister for Agriculture, whose announcement it should have been, Ferguson revealed that the Ontario Government would be establishing “a two-year course in Agriculture and Domestic Science in the Village of Kemptville”. As an ex-Reeve of the Village, and coming from a family with deep roots in the community, it is, perhaps, only fair that Ferguson got to break the good news. But it would take some time to get the courses operating. First of all, land had to be found, and two farms were bought in 1916

Above: The student residences, built in 1921 and finally torn down in the 1970's. Right: The Murphy farmhouse was renovated in 1918 to house the College President. Today, it is the home of the North Grenville Cooperative Preschool and Learning Centre in Leahurst House.

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from Thomas Murphy and Alex Armstrong, one on either side of the Ottawa-Prescott Highway (now CR 44) in Concession 4 of Oxford-on-Rideau Township. Over the years, the College would purchase other parcels of land. The house on the Murphy farm had been built by an earlier owner, Thomas McCargar, in the 1840's and was completely renovated in 1918 to house the new President of the Kemptville College, W. J. Bell, and his family. It was not until 1919 that classes officially began at the College, then known as the Kemptville Agricultural School, when short courses were offered in Farm Power, Agriculture and Domestic Science. The old barns on the Murphy farm were torn down and a new Judging Pavilion and Gymnasium were built in their place. This building is today known as Purvis Hall, and contains the Library upstairs. This floor was used as a Hall and Gym, where sports like indoor softball and basketball were played. Regular dances were held there over the years, as well as dancing classes.

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Sweetheart Brunch 2017

Kemptville & District Home Support, Susan Smith accepts cheque donation from Knight Todd Fortin

Kemptville Sweethearts, Norma Fisher and Jean Knapps

Chris Drozda accepts cheque on behalf of North Grenville Community Service Council Crazy Knights of Columbus serving up a storm!

100 Women Who Care

by Hilary Thomson Thursday evening marked the first meeting of the North Grenville chapter of 100 Women Who Care, a group of women dedicated to raising money to benefit the community. The initiative was spearheaded by North Grenville resident, Ashley Vincent, who heard about other chapters of 100 Women Who Care at work. “I was talking to a co-worker and they mentioned the Kingston

chapter,” Ashley explained at the meeting. “Being a mom, I want to help make our growing community even better.” The goal of 100 Women Who Care is to raise money, to go towards a local charity, every time they meet. Each person, or team of two to four people, commit to donating $100 at every meeting. Every $100 garners a nomination and a vote towards the charity which will receive the donation from that meeting. “The goal is to surpass 100,” Ashley

says. That way they can have a significant impact, funnelling over $10,000 every time they meet into the local community. The first meeting drew thirty enthusiastic women to Rideau Lounge and Castleview Fine Dining (formerly the New Rideau Restaurant). Cara Duhaime heard about the group on Facebook, and she and her mother, Anja Berends, decided it would be a good way for them to support the community where they work, shop, and play. “I think it’s phe-

nomenal,” Anja says. “It’s a good way to get to know what charities are out there.” In the end, the group voted to donate the $1,800 they raised to Community Living North Grenville. Carol, one of the ladies who nominated Community Living, says the money will be used towards supporting the programming that helps people of all ages in North Grenville with intellectual disabilities. Other local charities that were nominated included Kemptville District Hospital, and Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville. The plan is to have three other meetings over the course of the year and, hopefully, attract even more communityconscious women to the gatherings. Ashley says she could also use all the help she can get behind the scenes. “If anyone has any ideas about how to make it better or smoother, I’m all ears,” she told the group on Thursday. The next meeting will be on Thursday, May 11,

at Rideau Lounge and Castleview Fine Dining. Registration will start at 6:30 pm, and the meeting will run from 7:00-8:00 pm. For more information and updates about the North Grenville chapter of 100 Women Who Care

go to www.100womenwhocareng. com or follow them on Facebook.

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Merrickville/Wolford Times The North Grenville Times

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Celebrating our Heritage:

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The Block House

A quiet street in Merrickville, c. 1905.

The Block house: a Rideau Canal icon The Block house beside the Rideau Canal locks is one of the most iconic of Merrickville’s sights. Built 185 years ago, in 1832, it was originally designed to be one of many block houses to be built along the length of the Canal. When the British Government first decided to create a navigable water route that would link the Ottawa and the St. Laurence Rivers, the intention was to keep the route as far away from American attack as possible. However, when Col. John By, the Engineer in charge of building the Rideau Canal, realised that the roads from Brockville and Prescott to Merrickville were being pushed through and improved, he knew that strong fortifications needed to be added to the works. His design for blockhouses would have added a great deal of expense to the Canal budget, and so only four were built, none as large as he intended. It remains the largest Block house on the Rideau, and the second-largest in Canada. The proposed block house at Burritt’s Rapids was never built. The Block house was used for military purposes only once, after the 1837 Rebellions. British troops were stationed there temporarily on their way west. Instead, it served as a home for the Lockmaster and his family, as well as a storehouse. Left vacant, it began to decay and the upper floor was removed in 1909. After public pressure, it was saved from complete demolition in 1960 and was restored completely by 1965. It became a museum, operated by the Merrickville & District The Block house and locks in 1839. Historical Society ever since.

The Merrickville Bicycling Club sweep past the Block house around 1905

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Public washroom still possible for Merrickville by Hilary Thomson Merrickville may still get its public washroom, thanks to the combined efforts of the Merrickville Lions Club and the Chamber of Commerce. The Lions Club members, who have been working on this project for over a year, were very disappointed when Council decided to put a moratorium on the project and dissolve the committee a couple weeks ago. “I’m not opposed to a public washroom, but I wasn’t convinced that the proposed project would solve the problems experienced by our residents, businesses and\or visitors,” says Deputy Mayor Ann Barr, who was one of the councillors who voted against the project at the meeting. “This isn’t a reflection on the efforts of the committee, just a recognition that their timeline and mandate didn’t allow for the review and analysis that is needed before a project like this

is taken on.” The Lions Club do not agree. “The Lions consider this an insult of the largest proportions,” says Merrickville Lions Club President, Rod Fournier. “All they do is discount what we’ve done.” The Lions Club has donated a lot to the Municipality over the years, including the building that houses the Merrickville Public Library. “We have a record of taking care of things,” Rod says. The main issue for council was the financial burden that they would have to incur with the building of a new washroom facility. The Lions Club committed $100,000 of the money they earn through the operation of their campground, and were asking the Village to come up with the $45,000 extra they estimated would be needed, as well as some in-kind donations, such as the waiving of building permits and supplying the land. The Municipality was also concerned about

the $20,000 they believed it would cost the Village to operate the facility on a yearly basis. In response to this, the Chamber of Commerce has stepped up to the plate. Chamber president Karl Feige says they are talking to local contractors and looking at changes they can make to save on building costs. The Chamber is also willing to take over the upkeep and maintenance of the washroom once it is up and running. “The Municipality will just have to pay the soft costs, like the land and building permits,” Karl says. “They just have to be willing participants, which they haven’t been to date.” Karl says he believes a public washroom will increase the number of visitors coming to the Village. Because of Canada’s 150th anniversary, they are expecting a 30% increase in people using the Rideau Canal during the summer months. “There is going to be lots of things going on,” Karl says. In the past,

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This year the proceeds of the event will go towards two local organizations: the Merrickville District Trail Society and the Merrickville Public School “Play for Everyone”, which is raising money for a new play structure. These organizations were chosen because they provide opportunities for residents to get outside and be active, one of the overarching goals of the Merrickville Heritage Classic. “All of us on the committee believe that a healthier population keeps health costs down,” says Lori Urquhart, race co-director. “Everyone benefits from that.” Like last year, there will be a 2km, 5km and 10km run to allow people of all ages and running backgrounds to take part. “The three running events will provide a nice choice for participants,” says race co-director Steve Templeton. “People who don’t do much running, or are thinking of doing more running,

can easily participate, as can those who run a lot and like to compete.” Special sesquicentennial medals, created by Merrickville’s Alloy Foundry, will be given to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place runners for the 5km and 10km race, and participation medals will be given out to all participants. The organizing committee is currently looking for local sponsors to help cover the operating costs of the run. “We want to ensure that the cost of registering remains affordable from one year to the next,” Lori says. They are also looking for volunteers to help with set up, traffic control, cheering stations, water stations, route guides and clean up on race day. The Merrickville Heritage Classic will be on April 29, 2017, starting at 8:00am. To register, volunteer, or find out more about routes, visit www. run-merrickville.ca.

FINANCIAL FORUM

ALERT Phone calls, emails and even letters….all purporting to be from the dreaded Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) when in fact it is a SCAM. Contact by any of the above methods can be alarming; generally the tone is aggressive, with threats to involve police and/or lawyers. CRA will never threaten arrest, or to send police. They won’t use an aggressive tone or language, or ask for “prepaid cards”. Protect yourself by refusing to answer questions, do not give them any personal information. It is ok to be “rude” and hang up the phone. Call your tax preparer for assistance (reassurance!). If you don’t have a tax preparer, call our office - we would be pleased to discuss your concerns. CHANGES to filing the 2016 personal income tax return:

he says, it hasn’t been unusual for there to be a lineup of 10-20 people to use the bathroom in the mall on Saint Lawrence Street, which is a washroom meant for the shop owners only. “They had to put up signs, so that merchants could skip the line,” he says. Once the Chamber has all its ducks in a row, they will be bringing a revised proposal to Council to construct the new washroom in the previously proposed location, in the municipally-owned parking lot on Wellington Street West. Karl hopes that, with the easing of the financial burden on the Municipality, the project will be approved. “It’s something that the community needs desperately,” he says.

The date is set for the second annual Merrickville Heritage Classic

Canada child benefit (CCB) - by now everyone should be aware that (CCB) has replaced the Canada child tax benefit (CCTB), the national child benefit supplement (NCBS), and the universal child care benefit (UCCB). This payment is based on family net income and is not taxable income. T h e C h i l d r e n ’s a r t s amount has been reduced to $250 from $500 per child. The Children’s fitness tax credit has been reduced to $500 from $1000 per child. Both arts and fitness credits will be eliminated for 2017 and later years. The family tax cut has been eliminated for 2016 and later years. The most notable change this year is having to report the sale of a principal residence, along with any principal residence designation.

Good new for teachers! If you were an “eligible educator”, you can claim up to $1,000 for eligible teaching supply expenses. As of January 1, 2017, the total cumulative contribution room for a TFSA is $52,000 for those who have been 18 years or older and residents of Canada for all eligible years. Any unused contribution room under the cap can be carried forward to subsequent years, without any upward limit. Should you have any questions concerning the above or any other tax matter please do not hesitate to contact our office. Our staff are ready and willing to assist.

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Lumber Kings get cut down by 73's

Ouch more rubber behind me....Kemptville pounded 44 SOG at Ryan Glander and Peter Brooks posted a SO. to walk away with a well de- the tape and out-shot them by sportsguy 17-9, ending it scoreless. served 4 to zip victory. Second stanza| KemptOn Friday night, the First frame| the 73's skatKemptville 73's battled the ed circles around their op- ville came out on fire to put Pembroke Lumber Kings ponents. but just couldn't find three markers on the board.

Rowe to Wichers hammered it at Lumber Kings stopper and Neal Samanski, with his long stick from his knees, buried it on the doorstep off defender at 12:22 for opening marker. At 11:27, with Pembroke on PP, Hunter strips the disc to find Beauparlant to undress Glander, and Matt Tugnutt rifled into the open net for SHG. First unit would cycle down low as, with a man advantage, tic-tack-toe Gaudet across to Dow, and Alex Rowe overpowered his defenders to beat Glander for PPG at 7:45. Last twenty: 73's, still with foot on the gas, capitalized with SHG, after undisciplined play, Rowe over to Beauparlant breaking through neutral zone to Tyson Kirkby

to launch one between the pipes at 12:22. Lumber Kings’ Ryan Glander faced so much rubber that he must have felt like he was on road trip, as 73's out-gunned them 44 to 20 to award Peter Brooks his first SO. Just a reminder: the 73's have five home games, with three back to back, and they would love to see you come out and support them on their way to the play-offs. Next game is Friday, February 17 at 7:30, when the Cornwall Colts are in the community barn......see you there. Come on out and experience "Hockey with Edge"..... support your community 73's.

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