March 16 16 issue 11 ng times

the north grenville

TIMES

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

Vol. 4, No 11

The Voice of North Grenville

March 16, 2016

Girl Guide Goodwill Supper a Success

The North Grenville Times is Locally Owned and Operated

by Amanda Leang What do you get when you have a room full of committed girl guides and a supportive community at supper time? Success!

This past Saturday night, the Oxford Mills Girl Guides (OMGG) held a spaghetti supper fundraiser at the United Church hall in Bishops Mills. The price was right for this all you could eat event because it was by goodwill donation. We wanted to make sure everyone could come

and pay what they could afford. At one point, there was standing room only because only 72 could be seated at once. Except for last year, this was OMGG’s 13th annual spaghetti supper fundraiser.

The money raised by these donations goes towards our trip to Toronto this coming June. We will be going to Casa Loma and the Toronto Zoo where we get to sleep in the zoo overnight. On this trip, we will earn our endangered species, travelling and history badges.

In February, we hosted a Valentine’s Day tea also for a goodwill donation where there was lots of yummy treats to eat while watching a short play that we put on to show the history of guiding.

Guides were in costumes showing off 100 years of Girl

Guides.

We made full use of the church hall besides using it for the supper and had a weekend sleepover there where we earned our recycling badge. We learned a lot about recycling and the environment and even learned how to repurpose by using the tea cups we got second hand to use for our Valentine’s tea, and made planters for spring daffodils.

Guider (leader) Sarah Robinson said “I am very proud of all of the girls for their hard work working together to make this event a huge success”.

Our fundraising efforts for this trip continue by selling Girl Guide cookies. Contact any Oxford Mills Girl Guide or email amanda9leang@gmail.com to get your

cookies to enjoy. We are also having a cookie blitz at Kemptville Walmart on March 26 (9-3) and Johnson Independent April 2 (9-3) where you can drop by to get your cookies. Also, if you would like to make a donation to help with the trip, contact Guider Sarah Robinson at sarah.maidclean@gmail.com.

Our next big project for the Oxford Mills Sisterhood of Guiding is hosting our 2nd annual Spring Fair at Oxford Mills Public School Saturday, April 9. Admission is FREE and there is fun for everyone. This event will include vendors, bake table, face painting, kids games, BBQ and more.....watch for more details to come! Contact Guider Cathy at kcat@live.c

Merrickville/ Wolford Times page 17

The North Grenville Times

Oscar night in Spencerville Ladies: Ever wonder what it would be like to walk the red carpet at the Oscars?

Well, here's your chance - Ladies Night presents OSCAR NIGHT IN SPENCERVILLE on Saturday, April 16, beginning with a social at 6 pm, followed by dinner at 7, in the Drummond Building on the Spencerville Fairgrounds.

It's the perfect girls night

out: have your picture taken on the red carpet, enjoy a delicious roast beef dinner cooked and served by the gentlemen, take in the live and silent auctions, visit the marketplace, and sit back and be entertained by our surprise guest artist. You'll be pampered by male members of the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Fire Department, our local

The Voice of North Grenville

submitted by Tammy Ferguson

Optimist Club, the Spencerville Agricultural Society, and other volunteers from the community. Put together a table of eight, decorate it with an Oscar theme, and compete for the Best decorated table award.

Advance tickets, at only $25 each, are on sale now until Tuesday, April 12. Call Dorothy at (613)925-4385,

or Barb at (613)925-5513 to reserve your tickets. They're going fast, so don't wait and be disappointed. Photo ID is required and taxis will be available at the end of the evening.

OSCAR NIGHT IN SPENCERVILLE is a fundraiser for the Spencerville Agricultural Society, a non-

Spring Clean & Green Workshop submitted by Clare Weissflog SNG’s March event takes place on the first day of Spring, March 21, when we will be holding a green Spring cleaning workshop. We’ll be rolling up our sleeves at the Branch Restaurant & Texas Grill and getting a little messy for the sake of getting clean at this hands-on workshop.

Be ready to create up to four different green cleaners for your home, made from safe, non-toxic household ingredients. A small fee of no more than $5 will be required to help cover the cost of the

cleaning materials. Please bring your own clean jars and spray bottles to take your ecofriendly cleaners home in.

We will also look at the credentials of some of the eco-logos on store bought cleaners and attempt to discover which are legitimate and which may be just greenwashing. Finally, if you have any recipes, tips or tricks to share when it comes to green spring cleaning, please bring them along so that we can learn from each other.

Sustainable North Grenville events are open to the

public, no membership required.

Cash bar and light snacks by donation as usual Date: Monday, March 21 Time: 6.45 for 7 pm start Place: Branch Restaurant and Texas Grill, 15, Clothier St, Kemptville For more information about Sustainable North Grenville or the NG Sustainability Fair in April visit www.SustainableNorthGrenville.ca

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

NORTH GRENVILLE FIRE SERVICE PRESENTS

Help a Senior Day on Saturday, April 23, 2016

Our North Grenville Firefighters will be out in the Community on Saturday, April 23, helping our treasured seniors with various projects around their home.

Basic Yard Work (weather permitting) Eaves Trough Cleaning, Removing Christmas Lights, Relocating or Moving Heavy Objects Organize a small work area, Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms Assist with Potential Fire Safety Hazards Window ATEL Air MildCleaning Weather ad If our fire service can be of assistance, please contact the Fire Hall at 613-258-2438 ext 4

New Horizon Club celebrates Spring with an Old-fashioned Carnival

submitted by Shirley Price Clowns, a mime, ring toss, snake oil booth, and a variety of other carnival type games greeted members who attended the New Horizon Club meeting on March 9 in the Burritt’s Rapids Community Hall. A popular spot was the photo booth where costume items were provided for participants to dress up in for an instant photo, and the fortune teller booth was busy all afternoon as folks lined up to hear their fortunes.

A Fancy Bonnet High Tea (or coffee as preferred) was postponed to March 23 due to a storm. Design and bring your own bonnet/hat and join

the parade. Prizes for the best woman’s and best man’s hat will be awarded. The Easter Parade of hats will be followed by a service auction.

Some of the services already on the list for auction are a mystery tour, brunch for four people, picnic for four people, gift basket, offers to bake, high tea for four, etc. If you would like to contribute to

this list, please call Janet at 613-269-2737. Refreshments and a social time will follow.

The New Horizon Club welcomes all adults 55 plus as members. Membership is $12 per year and programs are varied, interesting and fun. For more information call Janet at the number listed above.

I hate mild weather and that means...

I am giving away air conditioners!

I am in the heating and cooling business, and my phone rings the most when...

1. A polar vortex sits on us for days 2. Furnaces stop working and houses freeze up 3. It is so cold water pipes burst 4. Fingers and toes no longer have any feeling they are so cold Not this year - that darn El Nino makes it feel like spring in February.

No one wants to buy a new furnace or air conditioner.

My misery is your opportunity, I am going to sweeten the deal for you…

TEXT ADS

Buy a new high efficiency furnace from ATEL AIR, get the air conditioner half price!

PLUS – No Payment & No Interest till June 2016 …OAC

just not working?

But wait, there’s more…

Qualify for up to $650 in rebates from Ontario Power Authority.

We do all the work, you get the money.

Hurry!

This offer ends when the weather heats up. In fact it ends March 31st, 2016 (I can’t wait). Our high efficiency systems help you save on your heating and cooling bills – EVEN with the latest increases in Ontario Hydro rates.

Call today for more information and we will gladly visit your home for a FREE in-home assessment.

No pressure, remember…the most comfortable homes have ATEL AIR in them.

Put a face to the name with

ATEL AIR Heating & Air Conditioning

BUSINESS CONTENT.CA 613.710.7104 PHOTO • VIDEO • GRAPHIC

March 16, 2016

Call Now: 1-888-535-2720 2

www.atelair.ca www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Canada Day volunteers needed

Preparations for this year’s Canada Day celebrations are well under way and the Canada Day Committee is looking for enthusiastic individuals who would like to lend a hand planning or helping with the celebrations.

Opportunities include helping with kids games, set up/tear down, traffic control, entering a float in the parade, organizing new activities to add to the

day, and more.

According to Councillor Frank Onasanya, Chair of Parks, Recreation and Culture, as much as the event will celebrate the country’s birthday, it also helps to bring people together. “We’re celebrating our country, our heritage, as well as our community. This event enhances community pride and spirit — we’re strengthening bonds

Erick Le Pors

community partners. “It’s also a great opportunity for high school students to secure some or all of their required volunteer hours.”

Interested individuals, organizations and businesses who wish to help are asked to contact Tammy Hurlbert at thurlbert@northgrenville.on.ca or 613-258-9569 ext.123.

of family and neighbours”.

The Municipality is looking for energetic volunteers to help make the event a success. “It’s a great way to build volunteer experience, get involved in your community, meet new people, and show your Canadian pride”, said Tammy Hurlbert, who is working on behalf of the Municipality to coordinate the many volunteers and

North Grenville awarded Healthy Kids Community Challenge Grant

The Municipality of North Grenville has received $10,000 from The Healthy Kids Community Challenge Leeds and Grenville Community Project Fund to launch GeocacheNG. Funded by the Government of Ontario, GeocacheNG will support the first Healthy Kids Community Challenge theme: Run. Jump. Play.

Every Day. The GeocacheNG project will see the creation of a geocaching resource and equipment loan program, providing individuals, families, schools, clubs and teams with the equipment, training and resources needed to experience geocaching as an innovative physical activity. This project aims

to educate the community on the physical benefits of geocaching and to increase participation of all ages, with a key focus on children and their families. GeocacheNG will help create supportive environments for children to be more physically active by combining outdoor recreation and location based gaming and treasure hunting and increasing access to resources through a free library of hand-held GPS units, locally focused howto brochures with fitness components and interactive learning seminars.

“We are thrilled to have received this funding from the Healthy Kids Community Challenge Project” said Project Champion and North

The Voice of North Grenville

launch event to learn more about the project, and participate in interactive opportunities to help you get started in the geocaching adventure and to incorporate different levels of physical activity.

To learn more about GeocacheNG, contact Tammy Hurlbert, Recreation Coordinator, at 613-258-9569 ext.

123 or thurlbert@northgrenville.on.ca.

Learn more about The Healthy kids Community Challenge Leeds and Grenville at www.healthykidslg. ca. Follow Healthy Kids Community Challenge Leeds and Grenville on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/healthykidslg/ and Twitter at https://twitter. com/healthykidslg.

Grenville Councillor Frank Onasanya. “North Grenville continues to invest in our local trail system to promote recreation and active transportation. Geocaching is an excellent opportunity to combine our kids’ passion for technology with their need to be physically active.

I look forward to seeing this project benefit our children, and expect they will eagerly take our hands and lead us on this active adventure”.

To h i g h l i g h t G e o cacheNG, a launch event is being held at 9 am on Saturday, April 16 in the Urbandale Arts Centre at the North Grenville Municipal Centre, 285 County Road 44, Kemptville. The community is encouraged to attend the

Catering for all occasions

STRESS FREE ENTERTAINING since 1992

613.860.2539 www.dialachef.ca

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

Saint Michael’s hosts evening of music and sweet treats where guests were invited person was going to be able to

by Hilary Thomson The Saint Michael Catholic High School cafeteria was packed with people on Wednesday evening for their 2nd annual Culinary Concerto.

The evening, organized by the music department

March 16, 2016

and the hospitality and tourism program, featured excellent performances from the school’s junior band, senior band, chamber choir and jazz band infused with decadent desserts from around the world.

Between each set, there was a short intermission

sleep right away when they got home.

All the proceeds from the sale of the tickets and leftover sweets will go towards supporting the school’s music department and the hospitality and tourism program.

to visit a station that lined the walls of the auditorium where students in the hospitality and tourism program were waiting to serve their authentic handmade desserts.

Tiramisu from Italy, Baklava from Greece and Profiteroles from France were just some of the worldly offerings on the menu. The New York Cheesecake with cherry sauce was a clear hit with people searching the cafeteria for the last coveted slice by the 3rd intermission.

Everyone seemed to be in a good mood as they left the show with melodies in their heads and sugar pulsing through their veins. One man was even humming one of the jazz band’s last tunes. Not one

3

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Contractor to build new Kemptville Public School

by Mark Calder Robert J Bourgon and Associates Ltd. has been named as the general contractor to build the new Kemptville Public School.

The Cornwall-based company will begin construction on the facility shortly, said Jeremy Hobbs, superintendent of human resources and operational services for the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB). Bourgon & Associates has a history of success with the board, having overseen construction of Central Public School and Vankleek Hill Collegiate In-

stitute. The company is also the general contractor for Bridgewood Public School, the new UCDSB elementary school under construction in Cornwall.

“I’m so pleased our elementary students will soon enjoy a new school in Kemptville,” said Chair Jeff McMillan. “This will be a facility we can all be proud of in which our students will enjoy rich learning experiences allowing them to grow and adapt to an everchanging world.”

“I’m happy we’re working together with the Municipality of North Grenville

stage, gymnasium and a large greenspace for a yard.

It will replace the current, aging Kemptville Public School, located on Reuben Crescent. That school was originally built in 1958 with an addition in 1978.

The Kemptville Public School construction project is being financed by the Ontario Ministry of Education.

Ministry officials are pleased it is proceeding as part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to provide quality schools for student learning.

The new school is scheduled to open to students as early as January 8, 2018.

to move this project forward, and that it won’t be long before our students are enjoying a spacious, modern facility in which they can be truly engaged,” said Trustee Lisa Swan.

The new single-storey school will be located on the west side of County Road 44, about 1.2 kilometres north of County Road 43. Designed by Architecture 49, the 43,836 squarefoot structure will feature new classrooms, project/ resource rooms adjacent to classrooms, air conditioning, an open, multi-function resource space with a

The Voice of North Grenville

KEMPTVILLE PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTRE

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

March is National PROBUS Month

The North Grenville PROBUS Club in Kemptville is happy to celebrate National PROBUS Club month during the month of March in our community with the rest of Canada’s membership. PROBUS, - PROfessional and BUSiness. The North Grenville Club was chartered in 1999. The local club has almost a 100 members that meet on a monthly basis at the St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church on the third Wednesday of each month at 9:30 am. The first club in Canada was certified on March 17, 1987 in Cambridge, Ontario.

PROBUS is a local, national, and international association of retired people who come together in non-political, nonsectarian, non-profit, non-fund raising autonomous clubs which provide regular opportunities for members to meet others in similar circumstances and similar levels of interest, make new friends, and maintain and expand their interests. PROBUS is independent of all other organizations.

The basic purpose of a PROBUS club is to meet others in similar circumstances and similar levels of interest, i.e., to provide options for members to maintain a path of fellowship and learning to remain connected to our friends, our community, and the world. This "connectivity" is a driving force underlying a member's participation in PROBUS. The club has had diverse speakers such as a world renowned Artic photographer, the ambassador of Sweden, authors, stem cell researcher, aircraft safety as it relates to bird strikes, world travellers, doctors, and an individual that provided an overview ISIS. Presently, there are over 4,000 clubs the world over comprising more than 400,000 members. Our next meeting is March 16.

Kemptville Legion St. Patrick’s Day dinner dance

The Kitchen Party Band from Montreal entertained at the Kemptville Legion St. Patrick’s Day Dinner and Dance. Two lovely ladies dancing to a little Irish tune: On the left is Ellen Miller and on the right is Norma Fisher.

March 16, 2016

4

www.ngtimes.ca

Editorial

The North Grenville Times

Canada in the news

by David Shanahan The people of the United Kingdom are facing a choice in June: whether to stay in, or leave the European Union (once known as the Common Market). Ever since Britain joined the EU (or, more accurately, were allowed into the EU) in 1973, there has been a sizeable percentage of the population eager to leave again. In 1975, there was a UK referendum on continued membership of the EEC .

The electorate voted 'Yes' by 67.2% to 32.8% to stay in Europe. But much has changed in the EU since then, and fears over diminishing sovereignty within European nations has continued to feed the call for an exit from the world’s largest trading bloc.

When British Prime Minister David Cameron announced that the people of Britain would have a chance to decide on the issue in a referendum in June, the fight for support for what is now

called a “Brexit”, or British exit, of the EU began in earnest. Last week, one of the country’s most famous politicians, London Mayor, Boris Johnson, announced that he was in favour of a Brexit, claiming that Britain would be far better off making its own political decisions outside of the interference of Europe (particularly, Germany’s Chancellor, Angela Merkel). Why is this of interest to us? Well, mostly because Boris has raised Canada as the prime example of what Britain could be outside of the EU. In a recent speech, Johnson stated that the Canada model was “the way forward for us. What I think we should do is strike a new free trade deal along the lines of what Canada has just achieved.

They have taken out the vast majority of the tariffs and have virtually unencumbered trade. We want a relationship based on trade and cooperation. The idea of being subject

to the single judicial system is the problem.”

He was referring to both the North American Free Trade Agreement [NAFTA] of 1994, and the still-to-befinalised EU-Canada agreement, which, it is hoped, will eliminate virtually all trade tariffs between Canada and the EU, and was described

by Stephen Harper as the “biggest deal Canada has ever made”.

Critics of Johnson (and there are, and have always been, many) point to the fact that the trade deal has taken five years of negotiations to date, and has still not been finalised. One critic of Johnson, Damian Collins, a Tory MP campaigning to remain in the EU, pointed out the Canadians are continuing to face “uncertainty” around the trade deal seven years into the process, saying it was “not a good example for the UK to follow”.

Is it nice to know that we in Canada are seen as the role

model for the Mother Country? Not all those in the UK seem to appreciate the fact.

One comment on a Guardian newspaper blog recently noted: “Yes Boris, we can easily see the resemblance between the UK and Canada.

Canada - 2nd largest country in the world, a federal state with vast natural resources in forests, petroleum offshore gas and mining, a net exporter of energy... The UK, erm.. well we both have The Queen, right?”.

When we look at our economy and bemoan the high price of oil, hydro, groceries, houses, etc., etc., etc., we should spare a thought for the people of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, who have been promised that, if only they have the courage to leave the EU, they might, perhaps, one day, if they work hard and do their best, become almost as prosperous as that old colony across the Atlantic.

Opponents of Brexit also

2016 draft Budget presented to Council

The Municipality of North Grenville has issued a statement (elsewhere in this issue) that confirms the tax rate increase for 2016 will be kept at 2%. This rise was announced during last year’s budget deliberations, when it was established that there would be a minimum tax rise of 2% per year until 2024, based on moderate growth forecasts. In making his first budget presentation to the Committee of the Whole last week, CAO Brian Carré presented an impressive list of projects completed, and major savings achieved in the 2015 budget year. These included the transfer of $415,000 to the Reserves, and extra grants from higher levels of government of $578,000, over and above annual transfer payments.

There are very clear pressures on the Municipality in achieving the balanced budget that has been put forward for 2016. In addition to the usual need to invest in capital projects, and to deal with higher operating costs (in hydro, for example), the Municipality is still committed to meet its commitment

to the Kemptville District Hospital, made at the time of the expansion of the buildings there. In 2016, $100,000 will be give to KDH, with another $800,000 to be paid over the next four years. There is still a possibility that the period in which the payments could be paid might be extended over more than four years, but that has not been confirmed.

Capital projects, and ongoing upgrades and rehabilitation of assets will require significant funding, and these have to be taken into account when drawing up the final budget proposals this month.

Running the Municipality of North Grenville will require almost $19 million in 2016. The draft budget will use $12.8 million in tax revenue, just over $3 million in user fees, etc., and $1.7 million in federal and provincial grants to help produce a balanced budget. There will be no borrowing for this budget year. Operating expenses will increase by less than 1%, and it is hoped that a further $338,000 will be added to Reserve funds this year.

Under the terms of the draft budget, the tax increase

on average in 2016 will be $11.03 per $100,000 of assessment, or 2% over last year. But it is the assessed value of a home that will determine the actual dollar figure that will appear on your tax bill, and that is where things get complicated. Your home is not evaluated by the Municipality, but by MPAC, the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation, which is responsible for “accurately assessing and classifying more than five million properties in Ontario in compliance with the Assessment Act and regulations set by the Government of Ontario”, according to their web site. MPAC is independent and not-forprofit, funded by Ontario’s municipalities.

Municipalities use MPAC’s valuations to calculate how much each homeowner pays in taxes each year, and that valuation changes with the housing market, in theory. For 2016, the average increase in MPAC valuations is 14.2%, which means that the average house in North Grenville was valued by MPAC at $242,410 in 2015, and that same property is now

valued, for tax purposes, at $276,832 in 2016, an increase of $34,442 or 14.2%.

CAO Carré admits that “the impact of the assessment will be felt, but certainly that is not something that the Municipality controls. It doesn’t mean that every homeowner will have a 14.2% increase. Some will, but not everyone. That is the average assessment.” Deputy Mayor Barb Tobin agrees that the 14.2% average increase will not affect everyone equally; it all depends on the housing market in your neighbourhood. “For some people that assessment will not change a great deal. For others it will because it’s based on an average of the homes that have sold in your sector. So, if homes aren’t selling around you, it does affect what your MPAC assessment is. There are some folk who have not seen significant increases in their MPAC assessment.”

The Deputy Mayor pointed out that sub-divisions built a decade ago, for example, will start to see increases as the property increases in value.

“Places like Settlers Grant will not have seen a major

March 16, 2016

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

point out the inherent contradiction in the comparisons made with Canada. Brexit supporters, it seems, are motivated to a large extent by fears of immigration, and believe that being outside the EU will give Britain more control over their borders. But other commentators have pointed out something vital about Canada which the Brexits may have missed (as have many Canadians, unfortunately). “Immigrants make up 20% of Canada's population driving economic growth and outperforming Canadian born residents in academic and entrepreneurial success”.

Brexit supporters are also forgetting that international trade deals, which they would have to negotiate alone if they left the EU, also sharply restrict national sovereignty in many areas. The most obvious of these is the investor-state dispute resolution [ISDS] contained in all of Canada’s trade deals, which gives foreign investors the

power to sue a government for introducing legislation that harms their investment.

This allows, for example, US drug companies to sue the Canadian or Ontario Governments if they allow certain generic drugs to be made available in competition with the drug companies’ products.

Perhaps, before Boris Johnson and Co. start to cite Canada as an example of what a Euro-free UK can be, they should start looking more carefully at what is happening in this country.

increase for the first few years after it was built. But I am sure that some of them have seen a significant change, and will continue to, if the home prices in that area are rising.

There are certain areas that are going to be more affected than others.”

CAO Carré agrees: “If you’re in a built up area and there’s sub-division activity and new homes being built beside another existing sub division, when they do the reassessment the older homes will rise as well.”

Residents are urged to check the notice of assessment mailed out by MPAC, and if they feel the assessment is too high, make sure

to lodge an appeal before the deadline listed in your notice.

One other impact on taxpayers for which the municipality cannot be blamed: the biggest single cost in the annual budget is the contract for policing services from the OPP. Fire Services in North Grenville costs us an average of $11.44 per month. Corporate Services, which includes paying for the CAO, Clerk, Treasury and Council, costs us just $6.35 per month. The OPP contract comes in at a hefty $31.77 per month.

The next public meeting on the draft budget is set for March 21, and it is expected that Council will pass the final budget at their meeting on March 29.

Mailing Address 10 Water Street, Oxford Mills, ON, K0G 1S0

ISSN 2291-0301 www.ngtimes.ca

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

The Voice of North Grenville

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

5

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

Staff Reporter Hilary Thomson hilary@ngtimes.ca

www.ngtimes.ca

Municipality Matters

The North Grenville Times

Municipal budget on track with a 2% tax rate increase

The draft 2016 Municipal budget presented to Committee of the Whole on March 7 holds true to Council’s commitment of a tax rate increase of no more than 2%.

"The many hours of preparation and hard work by staff have allowed Council to table a budget that meets our target of 2%”, noted Barb Tobin, Deputy Mayor and Chair of Corporate Services. “The initial budget presentation broke down the results of our very first consultation with the public which was in the form of a pre-budget survey. Council was able to use this as a starting measure of how satisfied residents are with Municipal services when reviewing this year's budget package.”

At both the initial budget meeting on March 7 and the special meeting devoted entirely to budget questions and answers on March 9, it was emphasized that an increase of no more than 2% was a target set by Council in 2015 along with the adoption of the Long-Term Financial Plan.

“We are pleased that we have been able to meet that objective”, stated CAO Brian Carré. He noted that the requirement was met while still being able to “allocate $4.2 million to capital projects which is an additional $1.2 million in capital expenditures over the 2015 budget in order to address our infrastructure deficit. We were also able to transfer $338,000 to reserves for future projects.”

In addition to the results from the pre-budget survey, the budget presentation given by CAO Brian Carré is also available on the Municipal website. The next step in the budget process, and the final opportunity for the public to provide their input, is the budget discussion that will take place during the March 21 Committee of the Whole meeting, beginning at 6:30 pm in Council Chambers at the North Grenville Municipal Centre.

If there are comments or suggestions prior to the March 21 meeting, the public is invited to submit them to the Clerk’s Office by email at cpominville@ northgrenville.on.ca to ensure they are provided to Council and staff for consideration.

A new vision for Kemptville College

by David Shanahan BDO, the consultants hired by the Municipality to evaluate the proposals for the future of Kemptville College, will report their findings in April, and the report should be made public on April 4.

There have been many comments made in the past few weeks that seem to cause grave doubt on the viability of that future for the institution which would celebrate its centenary next year, but North Grenville CAO, Brian Carré, remains encouraged and confident that the Municipality has found a direction that will be successful in preserving the College for many years to come.

However, it is not the vision that had been put forward earlier this year, when the concept of a multi-tenant campus being shared by a number of educational institutions had been talked about.

But the Working Group which had been set up to prepare a plan for the College found

Municipality sued by condo owners

by David Shanahan The Municipality of North Grenville is one of three defendants named in a legal suit being brought by the owners of the condominiums at Kemptville Meadows on Concession Road in Kemptville. The owners, acting as Grenville Standard Condominium Corporation No. 13 [GSCC13], are bringing the action in relation to “substandard installation of the potable water supply service”, and to recover damages and costs which are involved in repairing the system. The parties named in the action are the Stanley Fields Cooperative Development Corporation, the LA Group, and the Municipality of North Grenville.

Currently, the Statement of Claim for the action has been issued by the courts, but not yet served on the defendants, pending negotiations aimed at reaching an out-of-court settlement in the matter. The lawyers for GSCC13, Nelligan O’Brien Payne, have estab-

March 16, 2016

lished the procedure they will follow in the case: “If a resolution is reached that is satisfactory to GSCC No. 13, the Claim will be formally withdrawn from Court.

However, if an out-of-Court settlement cannot be reached, GSCC No. 13 will have the option to formally pursue the Claim through the Court process.”

The problems covered by the claim are of long standing, but the most immediate issue stems from an unexpected water bill from the municipality for more than $60,000 in excess of normal levels.

At one stage, it seems the Municipality threatened to cut off the water supply to the condominiums unless the bills were paid.

The developers of the project, the Stanley Fields Cooperative Development Corporation were contacted, according to residents, but “refused to accept responsibility” for the problem, so the residents turned to the LA Group for help. The LA Group was

The Voice of North Grenville

the site builder on the project, although much of the actual installation was done through sub-contractors. The help sought by the residents was provided by the LA Group, and the investigation uncovered broken and leaking pipes in the system at Kemptville Meadows. LA Group became involved with a water leak that occurred in 2014. They found and repaired two broken pipes leading into units. There was a subsequent leak in February of 2015, and the Condominium Board contacted Flow-Master for an inspection and repair.

The initial engineering firm involved was JP2G Consultants, which was brought in by Flow Master. Keller Engineering, an Ottawa engineering firm, was then hired by the Board to do a more full inspection and analysis in the spring of 2015, and to see if the potable water supply installations had been carried out in accordance with the 2005 Ontario Building Code, the Ontario Provincial Standards, and good construction practice. Instal-

that there was, in the words of Group Co-Chair, Gary McTavish, “really no interest” in the campus by any of the institutions approached by the Working Group. Brian Carré, who was the other coChair of the Group, explained that a number of universities and colleges were spoken to, including Trent University, Fleming College and Algonquin College, but without success.

“No single educational institution had any interest in taking over Kemptville College”.

Brian rejects firmly the comments made by the Kemptville College Alumni Association president, Ron Burgess, who believes that there is no real future for education at the campus. “Is it over? As far as the two-year diploma program, I can’t see it happening. There may be an opportunity to bring in short programs — up to a year — like welding”, was the judgment of Mr. Burgess.

But Brian Carré responded to that by pointing out that,

once the lack of interest on the part of the Province or those institutions became obvious, the Municipality of North Grenville “shifted our gears”.

“I agree that agricultural education, as it was being offered at Kemptville College back in 2013, that format, I would say has no future. But the direction that we are going, we have every indication from the province that there is a future for agricultural education, looking at climate change innovation, as well as water management. My view is that there is a future for agricultural education in the sector revolving around climate change innovation, reducing carbon footprint in those areas.”

Brian believes that, by going back to its original function, Kemptville College can rediscover its role. “Our story is that, if you go back to the founding of the College in 1913, there was a crisis in agriculture, and farmers needed to be educated in soil sciences, etc. Governments got together to establish the

College to educate the farmers in new technology. We see this story being retold again in 2017, whereby agriculture needs to look at doing things differently if it wants to be sustainable. And what better place to do that than in Kemptville College, where it was done before?”

The plans for the College include tapping into the interest in practical applications to deal with climate change issues. We’re looking at things like low-carbon to zero-carbon impact greenhouses. We know that the commodity groups, OFA, Seed Growers of Eastern Ontario, they’re all into this. We are not talking research projects here, we’re talking about applied, practical things. I am encouraged.”

Once the BDO Report is released on April 4, the MG Council will have an opportunity to share it with the community before deciding whether there really is a viable economic future for the 100 year-old Kemptville College.

lation is also governed by the Ontario Provincial Standards for Roads and Public Works [OPSD].

Keller Engineering’s report, issued in September, 2015, was quite damning. It identified not one, but five potential causes for the leaks, including open valves, unsupported pipes and valves which became damaged when impacted by seasonal ground shifting, and the failure to install pipes sufficiently deep in the ground. The report also identified the potential for contamination of the potable water by groundwater leaking into the system through broken and damaged pipes, and open valves. The recommendations made in the Keller Report require considerable excavation and replacement of sections of the water system, and this is one of the costs being sought

by GSCC13. There is a question of whether the Municipality had inspected the water system before approving the

opening of the project for sale.

It would appear that this is just one of many concerns and grievances on the part of the residents, and it is also one which may have an impact on the wider community.

Kemptville Meadows was originally put forward as an affordable housing project, and was given zoning and planning permission by the Municipality as such in 2010.

In order to provide funds for purchasers who would not otherwise be able to buy their own homes, the Municipality agreed to defer payment of the usual Development Charges on the project for ten years. At the time, this was calculated to cost the Municipality more than $400,000 in lost interest charges. But taxpayers were assured that there was not danger of money being lost on the venture, as the Municipality would be repaid. After the deferral period expired at the end of ten years, the development charges would come due

and would be paid by either the homeowner or the Stanley Fields Cooperative Development Corporation.

But the project has been beset by controversy from the start, and remains incomplete.

Only 88 of a planned 136 units are actually built, and construction of the rest, Phase 3, has not been started. Of the 88 units available, only around 35 were sold, and today about 50 are occupied by owners and renters, and that number seems to be dropping. Some residents are reported to have “abandoned” their homes because the property has been devalued, payments cannot be made, and regulations make it very difficult for owners to rent out their units. The future of the project is uncertain, the law suit is unresolved, and more concerns seem likely to surface in the coming months.

It is hoped that the current talks will result in a settlement that clarifies the situation for all involved.

CLASSIFIEDS: First 10 words free if submitted by email.

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

Submit to production@ngtimes.ca.

Email must include name, address and phone #.

Must be related to North Grenville/Merrickville

6

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Annual school ranking meets criticism

The Fraser Institute’s Report Card on Ontario’s Secondary Schools for 2016 has met with some serious criticism from school boards in Eastern Ontario. The Institute has been described as a conservative think-tank, based in B.C., and issues regular reports on a variety of political and socio-economic matters every year. Their Report Card on Ontario’s Secondary Schools 2016 ranks 676 public, Catholic, and independent secondary schools based on seven academic indicators using data from the annual province wide tests of literacy and math skills, and local schools are included in their survey. The Report Card gives marks out of 10 to each school, which, according to the Institute, “is intended to answer the question, “how is the school doing, academically compared with others in the report card?”.

In previous years, schools like St. Michael Catholic High School has ranked

highly in the annual report card, and this has been used to attract new students to the school. However, there has been growing concern over a number of years about the criteria used by the Fraser Institute to arrive at their ranking, and even doubts about the validity of the Report Card itself.

This year’s Report Card, for example, has placed St. Mike’s higher than any other local school, but it appears on the chart at Number 32. This is impressive when compared to the 676 schools included in the report, but it is down significantly on their average ranking over the past five years, which was No. 15.

According to the Report, “in order to be included, schools must have had, in the school year 2014/2015, at least 10 students who wrote either of the two versions of the grade-9 EQAO math test and at least 10 first-timeeligible or previously eligible writers of the Ontario Second-

make up a school’s effectiveness in providing education.

This is certainly Stephen Silwa’s belief. “Any process that ranks schools, such as the Fraser Institute’s report, projects an unrealistic impression about student achievement and the needs of schools, and certainly falls short of acknowledging gains in student learning that result from the intentional efforts of our schools and district.”

After finding St. Mike’s on the list, it requires some checking to find other local schools. North Grenville District High School ranks 145 out of the 676 schools surveyed, down from 93 in the past. Other schools listed include 1000 Islands High School in Brockville at No. 444, North Dundas High School in Chesterville, at No. 565, and South Grenville District High School in Prescott at No. 637.

ary School Literacy Test”. But this is one area where there has been the most criticism of the Fraser Institute’s methods.

Upper Canada District School Board [UCDSB] Director of Education, Stephen Sliwa, responded to the Report Card’s findings by stating that: “The ranking of schools, on a comparative basis, does not offer a precise understanding of exactly where improvement efforts should be directed and, as such, is regarded by our staff as having limited use. It is more accountable and useful to use data that measures achievement on a student-bystudent basis”.

The general feeling among local school boards and trustees appears to be that the Institute’s findings do not accurately reflect the situation in our local schools, but depend far too much on a limited number of factors.

The two tests used by the Institute for their survey leave out consideration of many other elements that go to

March 16, 2016

ticipate that those prices could increase in 2016 by up to 4.5 per cent. One potential improvement is more rain forecast for the United States in 2016 due to the effects of El Nino. “This could mean more supply from those states where farmers had struggled in recent years,” said Sylvain Charlebois. “It could also help U.S. cattle and pork producers, though inventories will take some time to rebuild.”

Meat prices, which rose 5% in 2015, could rise by 4.5% in 2016. The researchers do not expect Canadian grocery shopping patterns to be affected by a statement from the World Health Organization that processed meats increase cancer risk. But they said higher food prices could make a difference. A 2015 survey by the Food Institute found that higher beef prices led one-third of consumers to seek alternative protein sources, such as chicken, fish, lentils and chickpeas.

Food Institute researchers expect only minimal price increases for seafood. Canada is a net seafood exporter. Consumer demand for more supply chain transparency might have a more immediate impact, said Sylvain Charlebois.

“People want to know what is in their food and the animal welfare conditions. Social media facilitates consumers’ influence, and companies have noticed. For example, McDonald’s is focusing more

UPCOMING MEETINGS COUNCIL

Tuesday, March 29 at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Centre.

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

Monday, March 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.

2016 INTERIM TAX BILLS

All 2016 Interim Tax Bills have been mailed. If you have not received your bill, please contact the Administration Office. The installment due date is March 31, 2016. Final tax bills for all tax classes will be mailed in June.

PRE-BUDGET SURVEY RESULTS

The Municipality has posted the results of the first ever pre-budget survey on the Municipal website at www.northgrenville.ca.

2016 DOG LICENSES

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

2016 BURN PERMITS

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

The Municipality of North Grenville 285 County Road 44

Canadians to pay more for food in 2016

Canadian consumers will have to pay more for food this year, according to the 2016 Food Price Report from University of Guelph researchers. After a year in which a lagging Canadian dollar led to substantial price jumps for many products, shoppers will face smaller increases in 2016, especially for meats, fruits and nuts, and vegetables.

Overall, the researchers expect price increases averaging two to four per cent, above the general rate of inflation.

The struggling Canadian currency, climate factors and consumer trends will all play important roles in 2016, said Prof. Sylvain Charlebois, lead author of the sixth annual report from the Food Institute of the University of Guelph.

“This means the average household will likely spend $345 more than in 2015 for the same exact food,” said Sylvain Charlebois, of the Marketing & Consumer Studies department. “The biggest factor could be the Canadian dollar. For every cent the dollar drops, foods that are imported likely increase one per cent or more. For fruits and vegetables, unlike with meats, it’s more challenging to find substitutes in Canada, so shoppers will have to cope with higher prices.”

In 2015, the sudden currency drop led to fruits, vegetables and nuts increasing in price by nine to 10 per cent. The researchers an-

UPDATE

on animal welfare. One current trend is the demand to use less antibiotics in animals.”

The Report notes that food prices in stores rose by 4.1% in 2015, which was significantly above inflation. This means the average Canadian household likely paid about $325 more for food in 2015. The Canadian dollar lost almost 10% of its value in only one month in early 2015. For the first time, the Food Institute revised its forecast for two categories: vegetables, and fruits and nuts. These categories are known to be highly vulnerable to currency fluctuations as 81% of all vegetables and fruits consumed in Canada are imported.

In other areas, also, the Report notes increases. Meat prices rose 5% in 2015, as expected, and a high proportion of consumers have changed their beef consumption behavior due to increase in meat prices. “Canadian consumers are more likely to search for new protein alternatives, which may cause lower demand for meat and higher demand for vegetables and grains in future. Fish and seafood prices rose by 2.4%, which is slightly lower than forecasted. Canada being a large exporter of fish and seafood, this result was not surprising. Grain products like bread and bakery rose by 2.9% which was higher than forecasted.

For the first time, we may

see Canadian sales from the fast food industry exceed those of the full service industry in 2016. Offerings in fast food generally have enhanced and many chains offer natural, antibiotic-free meat products.

Animal welfare has also been recognized as a driver in fast food, more so this year than ever before. McDonald’s Canada decision to procure only cage-free eggs by 2025 is just one of many examples.

Predicted food price increases for 2016: Meats: 2.5-4.5% Fish and seafood: 1-3% Dairy and eggs: 0-2% Grains: 0-2% Fruits and nuts: 2-4.5% Vegetables: 2-4% Restaurant food: 1.53.5% Overall food expenditures: 2-4%

7

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

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

North Grenville’s

Senior Times

Let’s Connect…

It is hard to tell whether March is going to go out like a lion or a lamb. What I do know, is that it is definitely going out in a few weeks. At this time of the year, we are all anticipating spring like the wonderful gift it is. The flower and birds will be a regular part of our days soon.

This past week held International Women’s Day. This is a day to stop and reflect on the impact of the amazing women in our lives, past and present. What a phenomenal group of women that have paved the way for my generation, and of those that follow. I have so much to be

grateful for, especially here in Canada. I can vote, drive a car, and marry who I want.

I can work and sit at decision making tables, and be part of the discussion and resolution. I have the most amazing group of women in my life!

Some I have known for years such as my Mom (always in my heart), my daughters and sisters, my ‘new’ Mom, aunts, several generations of cousins and friends; and, other women who have come into my life more recently.

All have enriched my life in so many ways.

I also have to recognize the many men who have had the wisdom and courage to be part of the change, and who are very much champions of equality and rights for women. This isn’t to say that everyone is capable of doing everything, but that we should not be denied the opportunity. We all have our gifts and strengths. There have been many things that I have tried over the years that

haven’t worked out. This has led to the richness of my life experience. The people in my life are certainly very patient. I get ideas, schemes and dreams, and they are there to listen, talk and potentially help as needed.

This past week was also ‘Barbie’s” birthday. This iconic doll turned 57 year old!

She has been revamped and now is available in a variety of heights, weights, and skin colour. What this shows is that young girls need realistic role ‘models’. My hope for upcoming generations is that they will have wonderful women in their lives to look up to, and who will be able to support them, and to let them ‘soar’ on their own.

The women and men who come to participate in the activities here at KDHSI, and those that volunteer, continue to make a difference in the lives of those around them. There is a wonderful comradery that develops in the various activities. And,

new participants are always welcomed into the groups. If you haven’t been to our Centre, or haven’t been in a while, I would love to meet with you and show you around!

For more fun… tickets are now on sale for the April 15 and April 17 performances of “Gentle Voices”, available at KDHSI and Brewed Awakenings on Highway #43. Come and be entertained and transported through music. I have my tickets for both shows!

We also have raffle tickets for our April 1 draw of a beautiful hand crocheted afghan or a Kobo Glo eReader. Proceeds of these two events help the programs and services here at KDHSI. Thank you to all for your continued support.

Until next time Susan Susan Smith, Executive Director Kemptville & District Home Support (KDHSI)

Shin Splints Slowing You Down?

By Brian Woo BSc, DC. Chiropodist at Body and Sole Spring is almost here. Many of us have been hibernating over the winter and are looking forward to getting outside again. This is a popular time of year to begin a running or walking program or to increase distances to train for races and fun runs.

About 30 to 40 percent of new runners develop shin splints (pain up the shin bone while exercising). Some experienced runners can also develop shin splints with a change in shoe or running surface. Even walkers can develop shin splints, in particular if the terrain is hilly or if wearing a non-supportive shoe.

The following tips can help you to prevent shin splints: 1. Warm up properly before every run to prepare your body for the demands of your workout and prevent injury.

2. Gradually increase running or walking frequency, distance, duration and intensity while allowing adequate rest between workouts.

3. Run on softer surfaces, such as trails, grass or a local track where possible. Softer surfaces are lower impact and less stress for your legs compared to pavement and sidewalk.

4. Improve your running mechanics by stretching and strengthening your hips, glutes, core and lower legs.

5. 5) Replace shoes at the recommended intervals of 500800 km for runners and at least every 10-12 months for regular walkers 6. Cross-train with lower-impact activities, such as swimming, cycling and using an elliptical trainer, to allow the body to recover. Even unconventional activities like paddle boarding and barre class can be great compliments to your running.

7. Wear good quality running shoes. Only use a motion control shoe if you have excessive pronation. If you are not sure, have a foot specialist (Chiropodist/Podiatrist) assess your feet. If you have persistent shin splints or other foot pain you may also need orthotics.

Our Chiropodists at Body and Sole Foot Care Clinic can help you with all your foot and leg issues and footwear questions. Call us for an appointment today 613 258 5508. We are covered by most extended health insurance plans.

March 16, 2016

8

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Your Lo cal Choice!

301 Rideau Street, Kemptville

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

613.258.3014

Prices effective: Friday, March 18 to Thursday, March 24, 2016 “We reserve the right to limit quantities to reasonable family requirements�

March 16, 2016

9

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Nursing students learn about Ovarian Cancer from passionate survivors

by Hilary Thomson Ovarian Cancer outreach aficionados Patty Paterson, Joyce Blackburn and Sandra Sloan met with nursing students from Saint Lawrence College at Kemptville District Hospital on Wednesday afternoon to teach them about signs, symptoms and treatment for Ovarian Cancer.

All three women are ovarian cancer survivors and were able to give the students the unique opportunity to hear firsthand about their experience with the process of diagnosis and treatment. Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common women’s cancer and the most deadly.

Part of the reason why ovarian cancer is so serious is that it is very hard to detect. The symptoms are common and include bloating, abdominal discomfort, difficulty eating and change in urinary habits, all of which many people suffer from on a regular basis. By the time it is detected, it is often at stage 3 or 4 and is very difficult to treat. Every year Ovarian Cancer claims 1,750 lives in Canada alone.

Patty, Joyce and Sandra, who deliver their presentation called “Knowledge is Power” throughout Eastern Ontario, were joined by recent survivor Sina Fattizzo. She was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer in September and will be receiving her last round of chemotherapy on March

29. “Doctors really could be more aware,” says Sina who first went to her doctor with symptoms a year before she was finally diagnosed.

Ovarian Cancer Canada has been making a great effort lately to spread the word about Ovarian Cancer symptoms, detection and treatment.

Their new campaign about “lady balls” has been circulating around the country. “I wasn’t sure about it at first,” says Sandra honestly. “But it certainly grabs your attention and that’s what we want.”

Joyce Blackburn, Sandra Sloan, Patty Paterson, Sina Fattizzo, Saint Lawrence College nursing students and their clinical instructor, Judy Scott.

Oxford Thrift Shoppe benefits KYC

by Hilary Thomson Piero and Debbie Presutti fell in love with the property in 2004 and since then have been fixing it up while still keeping some of the 1970s/80s charm of its prime.

Debbie says she decided to open the Oxford Thrift Shoppe because it was time the large property started working for itself again. She also wanted to find a way to give back to the community.

That’s why she and Piero decided that a portion of all the sales will go to the Kemptville Youth Centre.

“I really believe kids need a place like that to go instead of hanging around on the street,” she says.

Piero says it was also important to them to find a local charity where they knew exactly where all the money was going. “The best thing about a local charity like KYC is that we know that 100% of the funds will go directly to the kids.”

As an avid collector over the years, Debbie was able to start the thrift shop without too many donations. “My son told me not to leave him with all my stuff,” she says laughing.

March 16, 2016

The shop has been open for about 4 months and she is now looking for everything from gently used clothing and accessories to small furniture and household items to keep her stock going. Eventually she wants to have enough different items in the store for there to be something for everyone. “It’s given be a purpose in life,” Debbie says, “It’s great to give back and it makes me very happy.”

If nothing else it is worth stopping in at the Oxford Thrift Shoppe just to take a look at the property and the space. The house is right out of the 1970s and the grounds include tennis courts, a pool with a bar and plenty of open space. Debbie has put an artistic touch into the shop itself with brightly painted walls, suspended faux stone stairs and a black and silver design painted on the floor.

All the odds and ends from different eras take you back in time while being displayed in a truly different and eclectic space.

The store is open from 12 pm-6 pm on Wednesdays and 10 am-5 pm on the weekend.

Donations are welcome to be dropped off any day from 9 am-6 pm.

10

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Spring Bridal Showcase

The Voice of North Grenville

2016

Choosing the right location Choosing a wedding venue may seem like an intimidating decision right now. You need a place that fits your budget, accommodates your guests and most of all, suits your wedding style. But rest assured: Whether you’re a nature lover, a modernist or a hopeless romantic, there’s a wedding site for you.

Knowing how many people you want to invite is crucial when picking a location. It is also helpful to have some idea of the events your reception will include; a spot that normally works for 150 might only fit 100 if you have a large dance floor and/or a band.

Then, you’ll need to determine your budget. Think about the number of guests you anticipate inviting, and then factor in how much money you reasonably want to spend on each guest. Remember that you’ll spend around 50 percent of your wedding budget on your reception. Once you have an idea of your budget and number of guests, you’ll be able to focus on venues that fit your parameters.

While it’s tempting to just drop by a venue, it’s not a good idea. Make an appointment and plan to spend at least an hour at each event space. Keep in mind that it’s best to visit each venue around the actual hours of your event – it will allow you to see how the space looks naturally lit.

If you’re considering a certain theme and color palette for your party, take that into consideration. as well. The site doesn’t have to be done in the exact colors as your planned decorations, but the walls, carpets, chairs and curtains shouldn’t clash with your party’s theme.

Before you finalize your location, make sure you know exactly what is included. Some public buildings have their own banquet tables, caterers and pre-approved staff. Many venues provide chairs and linens. With other spaces, you have to rent all these amenities. Ask your site coordinator what is considered extra.

Most venues can offer you a package deal and are willing to customize a menu or trim the package to accommodate your budget. In addition, if you plan on bringing in outside services, you’ll want to find out what limitations there may be as well as when you or your supplier can come in to set up.

Since your venue is the backbone of your wedding celebration, you need to find a reception site that works overtime to please you and your groom. Once you’ve pinpointed that site that’s going to meet – and exceed – your expectations, it’s time to sit back, relax and savor every moment of your wedding day.

Host Your Wedding at the

North Grenville Municipal Centre The North Grenville Municipal Centre, located in Kemptville, offers modern and cost-effective facilities for hosting your wedding.

Our venue can accommodate from 20 to 300 guests.

This can include: • Kitchen and beverage bar area to be used by the caterer of your choice • 300-seat performance theatre for ceremony • Outdoor patio area • Municipal Clerks to perform your ceremony

Ask about our wedding specials!

Lisa Kmiel, Event Coordinator Phone: 613-258-9569 ext. 134 lkmiel@northgrenville.on.ca www.northgrenville.ca

March 16, 2016

11

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Spring Bridal Showcase

The Voice of North Grenville

2016

Five Fabulous Wedding Registry Upgrades (NC) Getting ready to say “I do?” Of all the tasks in preparation for your big day, one of the most exciting is creating your wedding registry. It's a chance to choose everything for your home. Be sure to add items in a wide price range so guests can decide how much they want to spend, while getting something you and your new spouse really want. Dream big—take this opportunity to ask for premium gifts as well.

WUBS

photo by Mike+Ness Photography

Multi-Taskers Pots and pans are a registry staple, but don't forget specialty cookware and bakeware, such as a roasting pan, rectangular baker or covered baking dish. Choosing oven-totable pieces makes it easy to go straight from cooking to presentation, all in one dish.

TRANSIT

SAFE, RELIABLE TRANSPORTATION

WUBS

Mixing Up Magic A high-performance blender is a must-have. Choose one that can help with every meal of the day, such as the Vitamix S55. With a smaller footprint than conventional blenders, this powerful machine offers the convenience of four pre-programmed settings and two containers, including a blend-and-go beverage cup. Use it to make breakfast smoothies, salad dressing for lunch, soup for dinner, and dips and drinks for entertaining.

TRANSIT S A F E , R E L I A B L E T R A N S P O R TAT I O N

WUBS – With

Us Better Service!

WUB S Weddings & Showers

SCHOOL B U S R E N TA L S F O R

Backyard Barbecues A grill can help set the scene for backyard gatherings. Decide if you prefer gas, which offers easy operation and clean-up, or charcoal, which many barbecue connoisseurs say provides a more intense, grilled flavour. Also, think about extra features you may want, such as a built-in thermometer, side burners, shelves or tool hooks.

TRANSIT

SAFE, RELIABLE TRANSPORTATION

WUBS

Unconventional Tools Once you've got the basics covered, consider out-of-the-box kitchen items. Keep recipes handy by registering for a cutting board that holds a tablet. For easy entertaining, a slate cheese board allows you to label food selections right on the board. Or, pick one with a hidden drawer for knives and storage.

TRANSIT SAFE, RELIABLE TRANSPORTATION

WUBS TRANSIT provides quality transportation services for weddings and showers, acting as a chauffeur for guests and members of the wedding party. Our inexpensive buses are perfect for shuttle service between hotel, ceremony and reception.

Other wedding trips include:

WUBS

• • • • •

Bridal Showers SAFE, RELIABLE TRANSPORTATION Wedding Photo Sessions Receptions Hotel Shuttles Rehearsal Dinners

TRANSIT

Weddings & Showers

Wubs Transit provides quality transportation services for weddings and showers, acting as a chauffeur for guests & members of the wedding party.

Our inexpensive buses are perfect for shuttle service between hotel, ceremony and reception.

If you need advice on what to choose, ask a consultant at your local department store or download online checklists. Creating a wedding registry is often the first step toward building your home as a married couple, so get the right items to make it a happy one.

Annable’s BT 2016 b

Heirloom Quality

613-774-6618 or 613-223-3241

for the Love of a Lifetime

12024 Dawley Drive, Winchester, ON K0C 2K0 www.wubs.ca Serving Ottawa, Leeds & Grenville, Dundas

Diamond Engagement Rings Wedding Bands Attendant, Shower & Bridal Gifts

FREE GIFT WRAPPING

Annable’s Jewellery & Gifts Fine jewellery for him or her, home decor and more

www.annablesjewellerylimited.ca 513 Main Street, Winchester 613-774-2102 March 16, 2016

12

Hours: Mon.-Thurs.

9 am-5:30 pm; Fri. 9 am-7 pm; Sat. 9 am-2 pm

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Spring Bridal Showcase

The Voice of North Grenville

2016

What to look for in a Wedding Photographer contract All professional photographers you work with will have you sign a contract. (and if they don't mention one, that might be a red flag you are not dealing with an actual business!)

Take time and read the contract before signing! Small details in a contract can have big implications if something unexpected happens. (What happens if the photographer is sick or unable to shoot the wedding? What happens if he loses the files?) If you have questions, or something is missing from the contract that you feel should be in there, you should feel free to ask if they can include it in.

The contract should stipulate date, time and place, as well as the name of the photographer and how long he or she will work. Also add the complete price, including any deposits and payment schedules, and what will be included in the agreed upon price.

Here are the critical points to review – and get in writing: • Name and contact information for you and your photographer • Correct date(s), exact number of hours, starting time(s), & locations (rehearsal dinner, home, ceremony, reception) where the photographer will be expected to shoot, with exact addresses • Name of the photographer who will shoot your wedding & the number of assistants • Number & kind(s) of cameras to be used • Specific shots requested • Number of proofs you’ll receive & complete package details • Date your proofs will be ready & how long you can keep them • When & how you’ll receive your order (albums, prints) once you place it, and any other delivery details • Length of time the photographer will keep your negatives • Total cost (itemized if possible) • Overtime fee, if applicable • Reorder price, if you decide to order additional prints later • Deposit amount & date due • Balance & date due • Cancellation & refund policy • Name of an acceptable substitute photographer in case of emergency • In the event of equipment failure, a guarantee that a back-up camera will be on hand • Photographer’s signature Anything a photographer has promised you verbally should be in the contract. If they said they have fast turnaround times, put it in writing. If they say they have backup equipment, then ask for it in writing. A contract is a two way street that protects the photographer, and you from being treated unfairly.

We show our clients a sample of our contract to take home with them in our first meeting, and we never pressure people to sign before they are ready. If you are feeling pressured to sign, resist the urge, and ask if they can hold their day for 24 hours to sleep on it. High demand photographers usually work on a first come first serve basis, but if you ask them, they will often be flexible.

When you’ve made sure that all bases are covered and all information is correct, go ahead and sign the contract.

Make a copy of the document for your files so that you can consult the contract as your wedding day approaches.

Have a happy wedding!

If you have further questions about hiring a wedding photographer, send some questions to info@mikenessphoto.com

March 16, 2016

13

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

Spring Bridal Showcase

The Voice of North Grenville

Sports

2016

Kemptville 73's down two games, but not out

photo by Mike+Ness Photography

Make your day special in Heritage Merrickville at

The Baldachin Inn We cater to All groups up to 200 • • • •

A little too late....Jake Gaudet set up for comeback effort in Sunday's squeaker

Courtyard Garden Romantic Getaways Organic Entrées Free Parking

by the sports guy

111 St. Lawrence Street, Merrickville 613-269-4223 www.baldachin.com balachinn@gmail.com

March 16, 2016

14

When Kemptville rolled into Ottawa to meet their nemesis Senators, they knew it would be a fast, hard hitting challenge.

In the first frame, Alenxandre Way notched first goal with helpers from Meireles and Boulrice at 17:11. Tic-tac play from Watson, Dow to Jason Tackett into the mesh to even it up at 15:59. Jaren Burke from Rappleyea and Anderson for the go ahead for Senators at 12:08. At 10:45 Geoffery Lawson assisted by Meireles and Way to give Ottawa a 2 goal lead.

Luke McCaw unassisted at 10:09 to chase out Nicholas Hodgins. To close out the period, Lindquist and Anderson would find Jaren Burke open at side of net to make 5 to 1 slaughter. SOG in favour of Kemptville 12 - 11.

Second session with Ottawa on a tear and Kemptville caught up in the blur kept the pressure on. At 10:19 Zachary Cross assisted from Pearson and Sarracco added to the sheet. Daniel Sarracco with helpers from Pearson and Lawson at 6:53. SOG for Ottawa 13 - 9.

PPG from Sullivan and Sarracco to Evan Lindquist 14:42 for the start of the final twenty to keep the game out of reach for the 73's at 14:42.

At 11:57 Jody Sullivan blew one by Peter Brooks with helpers from McCaw and Gibson to make it a one-sided contest at 9 to 1. At 6:33 Jody Sullivan assisted by McCaw and Gibson for his second of the night to double digits.

PPG for Jody Sullivan to give him a well deserved "hat trick" with help from Hewines and Lindquist at 3:42. Zacharie Car assisted by Lindquist would make it 12 to

1 at 2:05 and stop the bleeding as the game ended. Ottawa outgunned Kemptville 15 - 9.

Jason Tackett is the recipient of the Mark’s Work Warehouse award for his tenacity and only 73's goal.

Sunday nights challenge would be a very fast, hard hitting contest. Ottawa came out on the attack as they posted the first marker at 9:53 when Alexandre Way with quick back hander at the net after Lindquist and Meireles forced the play in 73's end. At 6:38 Gaudet back to Russell to slam it at the net and Victor Tracy pop in the rebound for PPG and to tie it up at one.

SOG for Kemptville 13 - 12.

Second go around, 73's Gaudet to Russell across to Victor Tracy to rifle it top corner glove side for his second PPG at 17:07. At 16:05 Luke McCaw, assisted by Sulli-

van and Gibson, to even the odds at two. Louis-Charles Croteau with helper from Meireles put Senators ahead at 1:36. Kemptville outshot Ottawa 15 - 12.

Last twenty the Senators were on "red bull" as Jody Sullivan assisted by Gibson and Rappleyea at 13:11 to make 4 - 2. Dow back to Kirkby to slam one into pads of Andriano and Jake Gaudet drive home rebound to move them within one at 7:04. Ottawa's Mitchell Gibson with helper from McCaw and Sullivan picked up a spoiler at 4:07 to close out with 5 - 3 win. SOG for 73's 12 - 5.

Victor Tracy receives the Mark’s WW Hard Hat Award for his two goal night and exceptional performance.

Next game in Ottawa on Wednesday at 7:30 pm and home game Friday at 8 pm.

CCHL First Round – Kemptville 73’s & Ottawa Jr. Senators Wednesday, March 16 7:30 pm Friday, March 18, 8:00 pm Saturday, March 19 7:30 pm

Monday, March 21 7:30 pm

Tuesday, March 22 7:30 pm

Kemptville @ Ottawa Ottawa @ Kemptville Kemptville @ Ottawa (if necessary) Ottawa @ Kemptville (if necessary) Kemptville @ Ottawa (if necessary)

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

COMMUNITY EVENTS

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Ear-related 5. Plot of land 10. A rigid circular band 14. Office fill-in 15. Oarsman 16. Beige 17. According to custom 19. Cards with 1 symbol 20. East southeast 21. Washing machine cycle 22. Redden 23. Remedy 25. Precipitous 27. Belief 28. Featuring 31. Japanese wrestlers 34. An object 35. Snake-like fish 36. Module 37. Cause to happen

38. Scottish hillside 39. Groceries holder 40. Wrap 41. Flavor 42. Operating doctors 44. Mayday 45. Territories 46. A prominent attribute 50. Wand 52. Inclines 54. Soak 55. 64 in Roman numerals 56. Judge 58. ___ vera 59. Redress 60. Anagram of "Sage" 61. Female chickens 62. Vermin 63. Joke

DOWN 1. Different 2. Make fun of 3. Insert 4. Consumer Price Index 5. Cliché 6. Anagram of "Arson" 7. Cobblers' tools 8. Heavenly 9. Attempt 10. Doctor 11. Residents 12. Mining finds 13. Shove 18. Amount of hair 22. Large mass of ice 24. Violent disturbance 26. Armored vehicle 28. Corroborates (archaic) 29. Tidy 30. Delight 31. U-boats 32. Two-toed sloth 33. Movement 34. Interpret 37. Stop for a horse 38. Strong fiber 40. Observed 41. Browned bread 43. Orchards 44. Detects 46. Lose consciousness 47. Habitual practice 48. Anagram of "Store" 49. Excrete 50. Ho-hum 51. Spindle 53. Prima donna problems 56. Chart 57. British rule in India

Mar 17 Mar 19 Mar 21

Mar 26 Mar 27 Apr 2

Apr 2

Tues

Wed

Thurs

SUDOKU

Fri

Medium

Sat

Sun M,W,F Tue-Fri

Hard

Youngsters of Yore, 1:30 pm, Library Program Room. Guest speaker: David Shanahan-1916 Uprising.

Kemptville Legion euchre tournament. Registration starting at 11 am game starts at noon. Registration fee $10 per person.

Sustainable North Grenville Green Spring Cleaning Workshop at the Branch Restaurant, 6.45 for 7pm start. Get ready to roll up your sleeves for our hands-on green cleaner workshop. Make up to four household cleaners with safe, non-toxic ingredients. All ingredients provided, but bring jars or spray bottles to transport your cleaners home.

A small fee of less than $5 will be charged to cover costs.

Used Book Sale, 10 am - Noon, Spencerville Library Easter Sunrise Service at the bridge on Mill St. in Bishop's Mills, 7 am. Breakfast to follow in the St. Andrew's United Church Hall.

Clothing Drive fundraiser for Merrickville Public School’s new playground, 9 am to 4:30 pm, Merrickville Public School Parking Lot (306 Drummond Street East). The Score has graciously paired with us and will pay us by the pound for all the clothes that we collect.

Bishop’s Mills Annual Fund-Raising Concert, 7:30 pm at the Community Hall. Featuring Chris Angel, Kristine St.Pierre and George Buys. Tickets are $12 and available from Catherine Johnson at 613-866-1961.

Weekly and recurring events

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

Easy

The Voice of North Grenville

Solution to last week’s Crossword

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

Bridge- St. John’s United Church, 12:15 pm. Cost $4. "All levels of bridge players welcome. "Info, contact Sandra at 613-258-2691.

The Branch Artisans Guild, North Grenville Community Church, 2659 Concession Street every 3rd Tuesday, 7 pm. New members welcomed!

NG Photography Club - first Wednesday of every month from 7-9 pm at the Auditorium of the Municipal Centre. Check our website for more information on outings and upcoming events. ngphotoclub.ca Klub 67 Euchre every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month, 1:15 pm.

St. John's United Church downstairs. Everyone welcome, $5.00.

Bingo- First and third Wednesday of the month, Kemptville Legion.

Games start at 1 pm. All welcome. Refreshments available.

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

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

Bridge - St. John’s United Church, 6:45 pm. Cost $5, partner preferred but not necessary. For more info, contact Sandra at 613-258-2691.

North Grenville Toastmasters - Meeting 1st & 3rd Thurs. of the month, 7 pm at O’Farrell’s Financial Services, Cty Rd 44. Info, call 258-7665.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Facing a crossroads?

What got you here, isn’t helping you forward?

Time to change that. Coaching can help.

Weight & health More meaning & authenticity Life change /balance Job re-direction

?

Moveforwardnow.ca /613-258-4866 March 16, 2016

15

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

CLASSIFIEDS

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

Extra Words: 50 cents a word. Email production@ngtimes.ca SERVICES MATH TUTORING, qualified teacher. Grades 7-11, 8-9pm in old town 613.863.5639 CFSC $ CRFSC Courses and exams Steve Hoy 613.258.6162 2shoy@xplornet.com Weight Loss Coach “I did it... you can too!” Wendy Moore (613)558-4933. Free consultation.

LOOKING FOR AVON PRODUCTS? Call Joan at 613.258.7644 DJ’S RENOVATONS. Were committed to your Renovation. We do it all. 613.698.5733 The Plumb”Mur” Plus Bathroom PLUS more. Murray 613.519.5274 nmmuir@gmail. com Mobile Foot Care - TOES IN NEED 613.858.4383 House cleaning, interior and exterior, any odd jobs. Free estimate. 613.295.0300 Restore your Health - pain, injuries, digestion, breathing Kemptville 613.799.3315 TheBowenApproach.ca Frame Local!

Country Ways Custom Picture framing 613.322.6484 dam5@bell.net Heartburn, bloated, frequent colds? Digestive issue solutions.

Carol Pillar R.H.N. Nutrition Coach 613.258.7133 support@ wholesumapproach.com Stucco & Parging Services, also specializing in repointing & chinking. Free estimates. cedarrockcontracting@gmail.com 613.818.5187 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 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

5 appliances. Electric wall & baseboard heaters. Dedicated water & electric meters. 1 parking space. 613.608.6033

Entertainment unit with fireplace insert 66” Lx20” Dx31” H $450 excellent condition 613.519.5281

FREE DRUM LESSON!!!

Professional drummer offering FREE trial lessons...no obligation! 613 298 5913 www.drumhead.ca

Merrickville Ground Floor, non smoking, recently renovated 1 bedroom apartment, hardwood floors. 4 appliances.

Electric wall heaters. Dedicated water & electric meters. 1 parking space 613.608.6033

CLOTHES DRYER, full size, 14 yrs old, in excellent working order. $100 613.258.5558

Furnished Room For Rent in Oxford Mills, $650 a month. Call 613.294.7420

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

613.258.6254

ONE ON ONE Computer Training: Sigma Computer Systems is now offering 1/2 hour classes on Saturdays. Please call 613.258.9716 for more information HANDY MAN specializing in renovations & house staging.

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

You Name It, I Can Sew It. Call Rhonda at 258-5248 MR & MRS CLEAN residential/ commercial cleaning. Mrandmrsclean613@gmail.com, 613867-2184 HOUSECLEANING- Every working Mother and Father needs a House Wife. Sandi 613-2197277 Fencing and Deck Specialist, Renovations 20 yrs experience Brian 613 215 0805 Property clean-up, trees/brush/yard waste, scrap metal, dump runs, anything removed. Call Wayne Scott at 613 286 9072 Complete Home Property Clean up: house cleaning, dump runs, etc. Call Al’s Clean up services 613.258.3847 613.295.0300 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 YOGA for everyone. Wed and Thurs., at YIG. Call 258-9902 FOR RENT Merrickville 2 storey, non smoking, recently renovated 1 bedroom apartment + loft, 2 bathrooms, hardwood floors.

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

Asking $550. 258.1246

Commercial warehouse (up to 6,000 Sq Ft, will divide) and office (500 Sq Ft) to rent/ lease. 18 ft ceilings, column free area, 14 ft overhead doors and mandoors, heat available.

Kemptville Colonnade area. Call 613.258.1133 or 613.229.0566

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

1 bedroom apartment, Kemptville area, Country Setting, 2nd floor, 4 appliances, WIFI & Satellite TV $920 incl. First & last. No pets.

613.404.6701

Quality Grass Horse Hay 4x5 rounds Jon 613.227.3650

Room for rent in downtown Kemptville within walking distance of all amenities. Heat, hydro, internet incl. $500. Call 618 878 4738.

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

5 PC. PEAVEY DRUM SET w/highhat $350.00 O.B.O 613.808.4725 613.258.6413

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

Commercial space for rent 513-b Prescott St. All Inclusive $750/month, Available NOW 613.794.3551

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

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

HELP WANTED

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

Experienced Roofer needed, for spring, must have own equipment and truck Please Call or text 613-894-5210”

WANTED

PERSONAL ASSISTANT REQUIRED for quadriplegic new mother. Day, weekend, overnight and evening shifts to be filled. Successful candidate would assist with any and all daily tasks, including but not limited to; personal care & hygiene, meal prep, basic housekeeping, errands, limited basic infant care, etc. No experience necessary, will train right candidate. Must have valid drivers license. Please respond in confidence with Resume to simply.vogue@ hotmail.com

Looking for Sax & Keyboards for versatile local band 613.283.9543 Cedar/Pine saw log wanted. Minimum 8inch small end 6 1/2 - 12 foot length Call Bill 613 269 7928.

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

FOR SALE Two table saws, one mastercraft portable, $50 King floor model $150.00 613.258.4005

The Voice of North Grenville

The Family of Marjorie Mosher invite you to help celebrate her 90th birthday March 26th, 2 - 4 pm United Church 400 Prescott Street Best wishes only RV TECHNICIAN WANTED BGM RV Repair in Chesterville, ON We are a large RV repair facility looking for a fulltime RV technician for our Service Department.

The ideal candidate will have a strong electrical background and knowledge of propane appliances.

Other daily duties include, but are not limited to basic carpentry, wheel bearing service, plumbing, HVAC, hitches, trailer wiring.

Attention to detail is top priority.

We offer good wages and benefit package.

Please email resume with salary expectation to rvrepair@bgmautobody.com or fax to 613 821 9826.

Preference will be given to those with a valid gas licence or RV1 or RV2 certificate.

PARTS COUNTER PERSON WANTED (Seasonal) BGM RV Repair in Chesterville, ON We are a large RV repair facility looking for a parts counter person for out parts Department.

The ideal candidate will have a strong sales background, and knowledge of RV parts.

This position includes placing special orders, stock orders, Inventory control, yearly inventory count.

Other daily duties include but are not limited to, daily sales reports, answering phone calls, serving our shop technicians.

Attention to detail is top priority. We offer good wages and benefit package.

Please email resume with salary expectation to rvrepair@bgmautobody.com or fax to 613 821 9826.

Watters Financial HW

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT We are growing at Watters Financial Group Inc. and are looking for an administrative assistant for part-time hours, approximately 15-20 hours a week in our Winchester office. Are you someone who is customer service oriented and a team player with strong interpersonal, organizational and time management skills?

Please include a cover letter and your resume and submit it to elvajean@wattersfinancial.ca or mail to Box 728, 498 Main St., Winchester, ON, K0C 2K0.

Please note that while all applications will be considered, only those candidates selected for interview will be contacted.

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

March 16, 2016

16

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. 18

TIMES The Voice of Merrickville/Wolford

The Settlement that passed us by: part 2

by David Shanahan In the early 1800's, the British Government had always been determined not to encourage emigration from the British Isles. The postwar scheme they were now proposing was meant instead to redirect those already planning to emigrate. Instead of going to the United States, these migrants would be supported by the Crown in moving to the Canadas. The level of support was quite significant, as advertised in local newspapers in the British Isles in February, 1814.

The Government would pay for passage to Canada, and provide 100 acres free to each family. Every child of immigrants would also be given 100 acres once they reached the age of 21. Tools and supplies would also be provided free of charge for the first eight months, until the newcomers reaped the first harvest.

The plan originally envisioned a compact community

settled near the route of the proposed Rideau Canal, and potential migrants were to be encouraged by promises of support for schools and churches. It must, however, be emphasised that these migrants were not povertystricken, disease-ridden peasants, as was to be the case so often later in the nineteenth century. These were men and women who had the drive and ambition, not to mention the money, to make this bold move across the Atlantic. In fact, in spite of the generous terms offered by the Government, migrants were required to put up significant deposits of money in order to qualify for the scheme: In order to prevent persons from making an unwarranted and improper use of the liberality of government, it will be required that every person embarking for Quebec, should at the time of embarkation deposit in the hands of the government agent the following sum:Every male person above

sixteen years of age, £16 sterling; every woman, being the wife of any person so embarking, £2.2s; children under sixteen years of age will be conveyed free of expense; and whatever sums may be so paid by them will be repaid to them or their representatives in Canada, at the end of two years from the date of their embarkation, upon its being ascertained that they are settled on the grant of land allotted to them...

The sum of £16 per adult male was about the cost of a passage for a family at the time. The original plan was to find the required number of settlers in Scotland, and have them arrive in Canada by the end of 1815. In fact, almost 700 people did arrive from Scotland that year, but no location for their settlement had been found and they ended up living in quarters and subsisting on government rations for many months after their arrival.

The War of 1812 had greatly expanded trade be-

tween the Canadas and Great Britain. The war with Napoleon had cut Britain off from her traditional sources of lumber in the Baltic region, and her North American colonies had supplied the urgent need for wood for ship building in the Royal Navy. After the war, these ships were returning empty from Europe and could easily accommodate emigrating settlers.

Military personnel were not required to put up any deposit: it was felt that their contribution, as potential defenders of the lines of communications, was sufficient.

Discharged privates were to receive 100 acres each, non-commissioned officers got 200 acres, and officers received an area commensurate with their rank. However, the British Government had learned from their experience with the Loyalists, whose large land grants had closed many townships to settlement and development. Under the new scheme, officers were not allowed to have large blocks

less than 8 cm deep and 1000 cm2 in surface area on a city street that carries over 10,000 vehicles a day. This regulation puts road users at risk.

The legal duty of MTO and municipalities does not mean that roads must always be kept in a perfect condition.

That would be impossible.

However, employees responsible for maintaining roadways have timelines that they must meet in order to avoid legal liability. The timelines demand that the busiest roads with the highest posted speed limits be treated with priority.

If the MTO or a municipality fails to maintain a road within the expected timeline and someone is injured in

a crash caused by bad road conditions, the courts sometimes hold the MTO or the municipality liable.

If you see a pothole, you should report it when it is safe to do so. If your vehicle is damaged or you are injured by a pothole, you will need to (safely) take pictures and measurements. In the case of pothole damage or injury, you are obliged to file a claim within 10 days of the incident.

Ryan Murray is a senior partner with Oatley Vigmond - Ontario's largest personal injury law firm, www.oatleyvigmond.com

of land, but were to receive their allotment in smaller parcels (usually 200 acres) in order to keep them close to other settlers. But neither officers nor regular ranks could in any way dispose of their land grants for three years.

Initially, only discharged soldiers from the regular army regiments who had served in Upper Canada during the war were offered free land under the scheme. But the offer was gradually extended to other units of the British Forces, whether they had served in the Canadas or not, and to the Fencible Militia Regiments.

These were militia who were recruited to serve outside their county boundaries.

The lands that would become Merrickville-Wolford and North Grenville were about to get a large increase in their populations, as this major Military Settlement was about to be established on the banks of the Rideau.

March 16, 2016

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

The Perils of Potholes

By Ryan Murray A record breaking milder than usual winter and a rapid springtime thaw means potholes are appearing faster and earlier than expected.

Appearing as if by magic on your daily commute, the dreaded pothole is the nasty surprise that a fading winter leaves behind.

Drivers know when they've hit a pothole. The thumping sensation and jarring noise is unmistakable.

While hitting a pothole can damage tires, wheels, and suspension, the damage can be much more severe, including injury and, in some cases, death. Potholes also present a much bigger danger for motorcyclists, pedestrians

and cyclists.

From potholes to ice and snow, and overall bad road conditions, the question is: who is liable for bad roads in Ontario? Ontario’s provincial Ministry of Transportation (“MTO”) and local municipalities have a duty to keep the roads under their jurisdiction in a reasonable state of repair and have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to keep their roads free of hazardous conditions.

A regulation to the Municipal Act (Minimum Maintenance Standards Regulation), designed to restrict claims against municipalities, deems a pothole on municipal roads to be in repair if it is

s e c i r P g t n s i e B Fram Canal Gallery & Frame Shop for 230 St Lawrence Street Merrickville 613-701-0462

March 16, 2016

17

ted@canalgallery.com

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Young dirt kart racer with degenerative disease seeks sponsorship

by Hilary Thomson Like many teenage boys, Johnson Wilson has a need for speed. As soon as he started riding dirt bikes and snowmobiles when he was 9, he knew the world of motorsports was

where he was meant to be.

“My dream was to race dirt bikes competitively, once I was old enough,” he says.

In 2009 this dream came crashing down when Johnson was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy,

his dream of racing competitively, and when he was introduced to dirt kart racing by a friend, he decided to give it a try. “I didn’t know how fast [my disease] would progress, so I figured this was something I could do at the time, and I’m lucky to still be able to do it now.”

In his first year, Johnson won the track championship for his division at the Brockville Speedway. He now races at the highest level against many older, more experienced drivers. He races at the tracks in Brockville and Cornwall and travels to race in Lafargeville, New York, almost every weekend during the dirt karting season. He also races in the New York Dirt Kart Series (NYDKS), which brings him all around New York State. Johnson says he loves the competition,

a disease that progressively weakens all of the muscles in the body, starting with the legs: an important part of riding dirt bikes.

Even though racing dirt bikes was now off the table, Johnson did not give up on

as well as the fact that he is treated just like anyone else.

“No one on the track knows I have a disability,” he says.

“They race me as if I am any other person and that is what I want.”

Dirt kart racing has given Johnson confidence and a sense of community at the racetrack. “The respect and recognition I receive from fellow racers gives me confidence out on the racetrack to excel at a sport that many individuals in my circumstances would consider to be impossible,” he says.

It has also played an integral role in keeping his disease from progressing.

Driving the dirt kart exercises his muscles, keeping them stronger and slowing the deterioration. Dirt kart racing is not only something Johnson loves to do, it is prolonging

The Score donates $12,000 to Leeds & Grenville MS Society fective treatment to one in which a number of therapies are now available, and we can expect that this progress will continue in the months and years ahead. But, in the interim, there are many who live with MS for whom there are no effective treatments.

And, for most, living with MS presents challenges with

everyday activities. So providing quality programs and services in the community is central to our work. The MS Society exists to help people affected by MS”, says Laurel Mackenzie, Regional Director, Eastern Ontario, MS Society.

his life.

With the costly upkeep of his dirt kart, and high travel expenses, Johnson’s family is struggling to finance his passion. His goal is to, one day, race at the highest level and succeed. In order to do so, he is looking for sponsorship, “My family has sacrificed and struggled to keep me in racing up to this point, but now I am old enough to take on more responsibility and I feel it’s time I do my part.”

If you are interested in sponsoring Johnson, contact him directly at jw008@live. com. His perseverance and passion for racing far exceeds his physical limitations and it is what will carry him to realize his dreams if he gets the financial support that he needs.

For Advertising rates please contact Peter at peter@ngtimes.ca or call 613 989 2850

Valerie Toth (left), Owner of The Score presents Margaret Mohr (right), Chair of the Leeds & Grenville Chapter of the MS Society and Laurel Mackenzie (middle), Regional Director, Eastern Ontario, MS Society, with a cheque for $12,000 Valerie Toth and her partner, Lennon, opened their first store in old downtown Kemptville. It was aptly called The Thrift Store, and its main business was selling high quality used clothing.

In the last three years, they have reinvented their business – changed their name to The Score – and now sell a huge variety of brand name, high quality, new items at liquidation prices, as well as used items.

Since reinventing themselves, their business has grown in a big way, as has their generous support of community initiatives. They now have three large stores, all based in the Leeds & Grenville area, located in Smiths Falls, Brockville and their newest location, the Kemptville Mall. Since their inception, it has been important to them to give March 16, 2016

back to the community and, accordingly, they have been awarded with many outstanding achievement certificates.

In the last three years they have recycled over one million pounds of used items that might have otherwise ended up in the landfill. All of their store locations and clothing bins, which are conveniently located throughout the Leeds Grenville area, accept donations of gently used clothing and household goods.

S a y s Va l e r i e To t h : “We’re so thankful that the community has embraced the stores and for the local donations of clothing and household goods. Our collective efforts help to reduce our carbon footprint and, at the same time, enables us to do as much as we can to support residents of Leeds &

Grenville who live everyday with MS”.

Adds Margaret Mohr, Chair of the Leeds & Grenville Chapter of the MS Society: “We are fortunate that the Leeds & Grenville Chapter is particularly close to Valerie and Lennon’s hearts. Year over year, they have been huge supporters of the Chapter’s work; so much so that, this year, they have been able to donate $12,000 to the Chapter and are already thinking of ways to increase their support even more!”

“The support we receive from The Score makes a significant difference in the lives of those living with multiple sclerosis. It is because of the support from individuals like Valerie, Lennon and their wonderful staff that MS has changed from a disease with no ef18

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

Kemptville District Hospital initiates Strategic Planning process with significant stakeholder engagement component submitted by Jennifer Reid On March 10, Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) announced that it has embarked on a new strategic planning process with a robust stakeholder engagement component.

Dubbed ‘Your Hospital – Your Healthy Future’, the process is designed to engage the public, organizational partners, KDH staff, physicians, and volunteers in an exercise that will enable them to contribute their input to the hospital’s next strategic plan.

Like all Ontario hospitals, KDH develops a new strategic plan every three years that outlines its strategic priorities and identifies the actions that will be taken to advance these priorities.

“Strategic planning is challenging,” noted the hos-

pital’s CEO, Frank Vassallo.

“It attempts to anticipate the future while considering many factors, from the complexity of health conditions to our aging population, new drugs and technologies, and the challenge of government fiscal pressures and competing priorities.”

KDH’s new strategic planning process sets out a number of ways for stakeholders to engage with the hospital to share their comments, questions, concerns, and aspirations, including group consultations, online surveys, and postage paid response cards.

“With this new strategic planning process, we are excited to be engaging with the community like never before,” said Vassallo. “I want to stress how important it is that we hear from the

people we serve. Their input is vital in defining our collective health priorities and the programs and services we provide as we continue to advance our mission of building healthier communities.”

The hospital’s Board of Directors is ultimately responsible for the new strategic plan, which will guide KDH for the next three years through to the end of fiscal year 2018/2019.

The Board is eager to hear what stakeholders have to say, explained Board Chair, Lis Angus: “We’ll be listening intently to the ideas and perspectives that will be shared through the consultation process. All input will be taken into consideration as we develop the strategic directions for the organization for the next three years and

review our mission, vision and values.”

KDH invites all interested members of the public to attend an in-person consultation on March 29, 2016 from 6:30 to 9:00 pm at the North Grenville Municipal Centre.

The consultation will include discussion about KDH’s strengths and opportunities, future directions, and ways that the hospital and the communities it serves can better work together.

In separate sessions, KDH will also be consulting with its organizational partners, staff, volunteers and physicians. For more information about the consultations and other methods of contributing to the ‘Your Hospital – Your Healthy Future’ strategic planning process, visit the KDH website, www.kdh.on.ca.

North Grenville Toastmasters

Kemptville resident Moe Wozniak recently joined North Grenville Toastmasters. In his latest speech, Moe took us on a fascinating tour through all four categorizes of orchestral brass instruments, from trumpets to tubas. This is Moe demonstrating a few points on his B flat horn. Moe previously played with the O'Keefe Centre Orchestra in Toronto.

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

Get Ready for Nutrition Month

submitted by Susan Healey, BA, Communications Coordinator, Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit March is nutrition month and Dietitians of Canada is urging Canadians to take a 100 meal journey and make small changes, one meal at the time. Many people experience disappointment when trying to make too many changes at once so it’s better to make one nourishing change that sticks. We need to keep in mind that how we eat and what foods we choose are influenced by many factors such as the foods that are available where we live, work, learn and play, our personal preferences, and what we know about food and nutrition. So try to choose a change that is easy and doable.

Here are some ideas that can make a big difference: • Fill more of your plate with vegetables; fresh, frozen or canned.

• Choose whole grain instead of white bread or pasta.

• Serve smaller portions.

• Enjoy vegetables and fruit for snacks instead of sweet or salty treats.

• Drink water in place of sugary beverages, like pop.

• Post your healthy eating goal on the fridge and at your desk to keep healthy eating top of mind.

• Share your goal. Enlist your family and friends to support your efforts to change.

• Make a meal plan so you know ahead of time what foods you will be cooking and eating.

Use the dietitian-design app eaTipster for a daily nutrition tip or get inspired with recipe ideas from Cookspiration.

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

You can also connect with LGLHealthUnit of Facebook and Twitter.

March 16, 2016

COCKERELS

19

www.ngtimes.ca

The North Grenville Times

The Voice of North Grenville

North Grenville DHS Student Receives 2016 Leading Girls Building Communities Award

North Grenville District High School student Aidan Luctkar, at right, receives the 2016 Leading Girls Building Communities Award from Leeds-Grenville MPP Steve Clark.)

by Mark Calder A North Grenville District High School (NGDHS) student known for her leadership, community volunteerism and mentorship was recognized Friday with a 2016 Leading Girls Building Communities Award.

Aidan Luctkar, a Grade 10 student, received the honour during a classroom presentation from Leeds-Grenville MPP Steve Clark for her community involvement, which has included volunteering with the Elizabeth Fry Society, as a camp counsellor at Big Sky Ranch Animal Sanctuary, and with the charity Sarah’s Hope to raise money to reconstruct an elementary school in Kenya.

The provincial award, given by the Ontario Women’s Directorate, celebrates the contributions women and girls across Ontario are making to improve the lives of others through their careers, activism or volunteer work.

“It was easy to see why Aidan is so deserving of this recognition,” said Steve, after presenting the plaque-mounted certificate. “Through her work at school and volunteering in the community, she has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to making a difference in the lives of women and girls in her area and beyond.”

The student is also an advocate for equity and social change in her small rural

INCHESTER PRINT & STATIONERY

community of Oxford Mills.

She has served as a friend and mentor to a 12-year-old boy who is developmentally delayed and has autism. She has taken him swimming and assisted him to overcome his fear of water. She also helped him improve his social skills.

NGDHS Principal Derek Cole, who initially nominated Aidan, adds she is a strong academic student. Last year, despite her involvement in both her community and at her school, she won the gold medal for top average in her grade.

“And she is super modest as well,” said her Principal. “I just thought it was important that she be nominated for the good work she has done and is going to continue to do. “ Aidan was pleased to receive the award. “It is such a great achievement,” she said. “I am so happy that people were willing to help me get this award. It is such an honour.”

The North Grenville Photography Club

For Advertising rates please contact Peter at peter@ngtimes.ca or call 613 989 2850

Claira Bastien captured this photo of an old tractor near Burritts Rapids. It was one of many images submitted to the club's 'lost and forgotten' challenge.

WINCHESTER PRINT & STATIONERY

WINCHESTER PRINT & STATIONERY

March 16, 2016

WINCHESTER PRINT & STATIONERY

20

www.ngtimes.ca