The Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPRDSB) awarded the contract on August 27 to build a new school in Castleton. The $6,790,000 contract, awarded to Tass Contractors Inc. came in significantly higher than the estimated cost of $4.8 million.
After Ministry of Education approval in May, 2009, KPRDSB proceeded to tender for construction of the Castleton/South Cramahe replacement school.
“We’re very excited to move forward in our efforts to create a modern, first class learning environment for the students of Cramahe township,” says Diane Lloyd, Chairperson of the Board.
In June 2008 the Board approved the consolidating of the Castleton and South Cramahe public schools, and the construction of a new school at the present site of Castleton public school. The school is scheduled to open September, 2010. The new school will consolidate the enrollments of the existing public schools which are considered prohibitive to repair.
The Kawartha Pine Ridge (KPR) District School Board confirmed the project on Jan. 30, 2009 after the province heard an appeal by some families from South Cramahe Public School.
"This (the decision to choose the Castleton location) was a difficult decision for us, as it was for the local review committee. We tried to be responsive and open-minded to both communities, and explore all available options," KPR board chair Diane Lloyd said Friday.
"At the end of the day, we believe the entire community will benefit from a new, modern building that will support student success for generations to come."
Michele Adams is the principal for both affected schools. Ms. Adams said in January, "While this has been a long and challenging process for both schools, a new and modern facility represents a great educational opportunity for all the students involved. I am looking forward to working with the students, staff, parents, and community members as we move forward with this project."
No start date or projected completion date was announced.
Saturday, 29 August 2009
Community Care on the move
Colborne Community Care is on the move.
Program Coordinator, Cheryl Storey confirmed on August 28 that the social service agency will be moving from 25 King St. E. to its new offices behind Downey Pharmacy on Monday, August 31.
The move isn't far but the impact will be significant.
Ms. Storey says the move to more spacious quarters will allow her and her staff to provide more programming, add more activities and network with other organizations. The move to 11 King St. E. will provide opportunities to work with other agencies like the Northumberland Transportation Initiative and the Enhanced Caregiver Support program. There are other exciting possibilities too.
Clients will be able to get to the Community Care offices by passing through Downey's or by entering the wheelchair-accessible rear entrance via the parking lot up Maybee Lane. The offices themselves will also be wheelchair accessible in every way.
Community Care will hold an official open house for its new offices on Tuesday, September 29 from 1-4 p.m.
Friday, 28 August 2009
Cramahe Now continues to grow
Cramahe Now is closing in on its best month ever. In the past month over 4,400 readers have read over 10,000 pages. By comparison, in our first month 1,662 readers looked at 3,387 pages. The August numbers bring us to over 30,000 pages read by over 15,000 visitors.
We thank you for making Cramahe Now your number one source for local news.
You can do your part by supporting our advertisers. Tell them you saw their ads here. And if you are a potential advertiser, consider what you are missing. Most of our readers are local; virtually all are interested in our community. Where else can you get such a targetted audience?
This is a community news blog; by working together and supporting each other, we can make it work.
We thank you for making Cramahe Now your number one source for local news.
You can do your part by supporting our advertisers. Tell them you saw their ads here. And if you are a potential advertiser, consider what you are missing. Most of our readers are local; virtually all are interested in our community. Where else can you get such a targetted audience?
This is a community news blog; by working together and supporting each other, we can make it work.
Harold writes...
Cramahe Now reader Harold Harnden writes what many have been saying for weeks -
Has it really been four weeks since the 150th anniversary of the village of Colborne?
I am still living that weekend as though it were yesterday and in talking to others the same feeling pervades. The whole thing was like magic and such an event will not be seen again by many of us here today. Time has a way of eliminating some of us as the days and months pass but there will be others to ready the village for 175th or 200th anniversary.
In any future celebrations,those in charge had better be sharp in their planning. Those who worked so hard for many months for this past party ,will be a hard act to follow.
Congratulations and thank you goes out to Pat Westrope and her committee for a job well done. I imagine there must have been some times of doubt while planning this large production but it was done with style and finesse. And didn't all those ladies in their period costumes take everyone's eye. Just beautiful, and the men were quite dapper also.
Harold Harnden
Library Board needs you
There are spots oopen on the Cramahe Township Library Board. You can join. Simply follow the instructions below, sent to us by Library Board Chair, Ed Greenwood.
The Township of Cramahe Public Library Board urgently needs new board members, and is especially interested in recruiting members who reside in the township north of the 401. If interested, please write a letter of the Township Council offering to serve on the board, or fill out an online volunteer application form on the township website. Thank you!
The Township of Cramahe Public Library Board urgently needs new board members, and is especially interested in recruiting members who reside in the township north of the 401. If interested, please write a letter of the Township Council offering to serve on the board, or fill out an online volunteer application form on the township website. Thank you!
Jamboree is ready to go!
The Auction Barn Jamboree is up and ready to go!
Organiser, Gary Warner has found another property to accommodate 20 more thankful campers, and together with Cramahe's Director of Community Services, Dan O'Brien, has the fifth annual jamboree primed for its September 1 start.
Country legend, Gene Watson and Hank Williams Tribute artist, David Church will launch this year's Jamboree with early-bird performances on September 1 and 2. If you don't have a ticket yet you might be able to get one for the September 1 show. As he fielded phone calls looking for directions to Colborne and tickets, Gary noted that the September 2 show sold out long ago and there are six bus loads pouring in from across Ontario for dinner and the September 1 performances by Watson and Church.
The promoter figures there will be at least 650 people in Colborne on September 1 who have never been here before and another 850 the next day. They'll be driving in from all over the province. Some will stay for the entire six days of country excitement. To help keep them comfortable the Jamboree has bought another 200 chairs which it is donating to the Keeler Centre.
Gary says the Jamboree will welcome a lady who is flying from New Brunswick to take in the two early-bird shows.
Campers will get the traditional welcome packages, handed out by one of the 20 volunteers working the weekend. The show is the year-round work of Gary and co-promoter Linda Grills. As the show days approach, the two rely heavily on the expertise of Dan O'Brien.
The Jamboree itself, starts Thursday, September 3. And while Gary doesn't keep close tabs on the door sales, he has seen the camping numbers rise by 15% over last year. He expects sales at the door to be brisk.
This is the fifth year and Gary sees it as a marker. The Jamboree has grown each year and is now approaching capacity. This year patrons will see and hear the music of Quebec's Nelson Cole and a host of Ontario country artists. On Thursday and Friday nights he's saviing spots for a couple of talented 11-12 year-olds. One of the acts on closing night Sunday will be a band made up of 15-16 year-olds who have grown up in a country atmosphere and now perform in eastern Ontario.
Day passes this year are $15. A four-day weekend pass is $45. They can be bought at the door. Check the Auction Barn Jamboree ad in Cramahe Now for more details.
Organiser, Gary Warner has found another property to accommodate 20 more thankful campers, and together with Cramahe's Director of Community Services, Dan O'Brien, has the fifth annual jamboree primed for its September 1 start.
Country legend, Gene Watson and Hank Williams Tribute artist, David Church will launch this year's Jamboree with early-bird performances on September 1 and 2. If you don't have a ticket yet you might be able to get one for the September 1 show. As he fielded phone calls looking for directions to Colborne and tickets, Gary noted that the September 2 show sold out long ago and there are six bus loads pouring in from across Ontario for dinner and the September 1 performances by Watson and Church.
The promoter figures there will be at least 650 people in Colborne on September 1 who have never been here before and another 850 the next day. They'll be driving in from all over the province. Some will stay for the entire six days of country excitement. To help keep them comfortable the Jamboree has bought another 200 chairs which it is donating to the Keeler Centre.
Gary says the Jamboree will welcome a lady who is flying from New Brunswick to take in the two early-bird shows.
Campers will get the traditional welcome packages, handed out by one of the 20 volunteers working the weekend. The show is the year-round work of Gary and co-promoter Linda Grills. As the show days approach, the two rely heavily on the expertise of Dan O'Brien.
The Jamboree itself, starts Thursday, September 3. And while Gary doesn't keep close tabs on the door sales, he has seen the camping numbers rise by 15% over last year. He expects sales at the door to be brisk.
This is the fifth year and Gary sees it as a marker. The Jamboree has grown each year and is now approaching capacity. This year patrons will see and hear the music of Quebec's Nelson Cole and a host of Ontario country artists. On Thursday and Friday nights he's saviing spots for a couple of talented 11-12 year-olds. One of the acts on closing night Sunday will be a band made up of 15-16 year-olds who have grown up in a country atmosphere and now perform in eastern Ontario.
Day passes this year are $15. A four-day weekend pass is $45. They can be bought at the door. Check the Auction Barn Jamboree ad in Cramahe Now for more details.
Thursday, 27 August 2009
CCH ends regular season
Another regular season is over for the kids of the CCH Soccer Club.
Most of the teams played every Thursday night all summer. On the final night some of the parents joined in to show the kids how its done.
Check the gallery for more of the action.
Soccer end of season
Most of the teams played every Thursday night all summer. On the final night some of the parents joined in to show the kids how its done.
Check the gallery for more of the action.
Soccer end of season
Additions to ecology garden gallery
We've added a few more of Bob Compton's photos to the latest Ecolgy Garden Gallery.
Take a look ... Gallery update
Take a look ... Gallery update
Wednesday, 26 August 2009
Cramahe tower update
Northumberland County consultant, Paula Preston of Actionable Intelligence Inc., is holding out some hope that a resolution may be found to the tower location in Cramahe Township. Neighbours whose homes are near the proposed tower are unhappy with the impact the tower will have on their views.
As a result an alternate location is being considered by Barrett Xplornet Inc.
In an email received today by Cramahe Now, Ms. Preston writes -
"At the alternate site - there may have been some initial concern raised about the trees affecting the coverage for the homes at the bottom of the hill where the Clareys present residence is. Once analysed my understanding is that the engineering team believe this is not a problem.
I can’t really address the soil issue, but a soil engineering team will do a proper analysis when BXI gets permission from the landowner. I agree with you, that it probably won’t be an issue.
In conversations with Bob Davie (Ontario General Manager for BXI) on Monday, the alternate site looks promising, but BXI have not yet received any agreement from the landowner. They are actively pursuing this option in lieu of the concerns raised by the community.
We await their consultations ...
As a result an alternate location is being considered by Barrett Xplornet Inc.
In an email received today by Cramahe Now, Ms. Preston writes -
"At the alternate site - there may have been some initial concern raised about the trees affecting the coverage for the homes at the bottom of the hill where the Clareys present residence is. Once analysed my understanding is that the engineering team believe this is not a problem.
I can’t really address the soil issue, but a soil engineering team will do a proper analysis when BXI gets permission from the landowner. I agree with you, that it probably won’t be an issue.
In conversations with Bob Davie (Ontario General Manager for BXI) on Monday, the alternate site looks promising, but BXI have not yet received any agreement from the landowner. They are actively pursuing this option in lieu of the concerns raised by the community.
We await their consultations ...
July building hits half million
There was $594,670 worth of building started in Cramahe in July. Comparisons with last year would be unfair, as HD Supply and Cambro Lasertek began major building projects worth almost $7 million.
However, with those two projects not included, July, 2008 building was still more than double the total for this July. That was largely due to three home starts worth $888,000 in 2008. This July there were two new home starts worth $415,000. Both were in the villagea of Colborne. One was in Colborne Creek. The only other significant item in July, 2009 was an $80,000 renovation to a single-family home at 56 King Street East.
This year there have been eight home starts and 54 permits issued. At this time last year there were 14 home starts and 65 permits. Two years ago there were 20 new home starts by the end of July and 83 permits. In 2005 the township was averaging five homes a month. There has not been a million-dollar month this year.
Total building to date in Cramahe in 2009 is $2,167,820. Last year at this time, if we don't include the two industrial additions, the total was about $5 million. Two years ago the total at the end of July was $5.25 million.
However, with those two projects not included, July, 2008 building was still more than double the total for this July. That was largely due to three home starts worth $888,000 in 2008. This July there were two new home starts worth $415,000. Both were in the villagea of Colborne. One was in Colborne Creek. The only other significant item in July, 2009 was an $80,000 renovation to a single-family home at 56 King Street East.
This year there have been eight home starts and 54 permits issued. At this time last year there were 14 home starts and 65 permits. Two years ago there were 20 new home starts by the end of July and 83 permits. In 2005 the township was averaging five homes a month. There has not been a million-dollar month this year.
Total building to date in Cramahe in 2009 is $2,167,820. Last year at this time, if we don't include the two industrial additions, the total was about $5 million. Two years ago the total at the end of July was $5.25 million.
Calling former Colborne students
Did you miss the Colborne Public School Reunion? Or maybe you were there and forgot to pick up that piece of memorabilia you wanted? It's not too late.
There is some memorabilia still for sale from the Reunion for reduced prices..... T-shirts and a slide show of photos on a DVD. If you wish to purchase any, contact Peggy at rutherflo@eagle.ca or Julie at julieha@jdimi.com
There is some memorabilia still for sale from the Reunion for reduced prices..... T-shirts and a slide show of photos on a DVD. If you wish to purchase any, contact Peggy at rutherflo@eagle.ca or Julie at julieha@jdimi.com
MPP searching for housing answers
Northumberland-Quinte West MPP, Lou Rinaldi came to Colborne on August 20 looking for answers to Ontario's housing problems.
Over a year ago the local MPP was appointed to a committee charged with the responsibililty of finding a poverty reduction strategy for Ontario. In its deliberations and consultations the group decided to spend more time establishing a long-term affordable housing strategy.
This year the province is hosting province-wide consultations on the subject as the government prepares to create a 10-year strategy and benchmarks. When the plan is in place the provincial government intends to put some money into the program to improve housing for the less fortunate.
The government is aware of the need for housing. The question is how to fix the problem. That question brought about 25 people to the Keeler Centre for round-table discussions and recommendations.
The Keeler Centre discussions produced the following recommendations:
The federal and provincial governments should not be involved in the direct delivery of housing; they should provide the money.
The municipality should be the key provider of housing. Municipal politicians and staff know their communities. They can implement the guidelines.
The private sector shold provide some of the needed housing, but it must be made attractive for those involved.
Non-profit organizations should manage the housing and be the landlords. This sector will make the housing affordable. And not all housing should be rental properties.
Housing costs must be kept below 30% of a family's income. People need better places to live.
There should be tax incentives for landlords and more suppoerted care for tenants. A shelter allowance is needed for the working poor and a utility trust fund. Better transpportation is needed, especially in rural areas. Developers should be forced to have a percentage of moderately priced homes in their developments.
The group also suggested that needs must be measured and effectiveness assessed.
When clients rent costs are assessed they should be based on the current year's income, not the previous year's. And somehow, the condition of the housing stock should be measured.
Mr. Rinaldi will take the recommendations from this meeting and others he is attending to his committee. The public is welcome to add further comments or suggestions by the end of the year.
Email them to - housingstrategy.mah@ontario.ca
Fax them to - 416-585-7607
or mail them to - Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Housing Policy Branch
14th Floor, 777 Bay St.
Toronto M5G 2E5
more housing facts
Tuesday, 25 August 2009
Police investigate homicide
The Belleville Police Service Criminal Investigations Division continues to investigate the death of Robert Vaillancourt.
Mr. Vaillancourt retired from General Motors in Oshawa and moved with his wife from the Colborne area to Belleville approximately two years ago. In the past two years Mr. Vaillancourt has been employed as a sheet metal worker at various locations from east of Toronto to Belleville.
Mr. Vaillancourt’s body was recovered from the Moira River at 10:55 a.m. on Thursday July 23, 2009 and the investigation to date indicates that Mr. Vaillancourt died in the early morning hours of the 23rd.
Investigators are continuing to seek assistance from the public that may assist them in their investigation and to assist in identifying friends, acquaintances business and associates of Mr. Vaillancourt.
In this effort the Belleville Police Service is releasing a recent photograph of Mr. Vaillancourt in the hopes that someone may recognize him and has information that may assist the police.
Anyone who with information is requested to contact S/Sgt Shawn Yuille at 613 966 0882 #2353 or D/Sgt Tom Sweet at 613 966 0882 #2313 or CRIME STOPPERS at 1-800-222-TIPS
Rare concert this Sunday
submitted
Many readers will remember Daniel Wiersma from his piano recital at Colborne United Church last summer. A sizeable audience was fortunate to hear the young concert pianist give a concert of Schubert and Alkan.
Due to other commitments, Daniel will unfortunately be able to give only one concert this summer, which will be held at Trinity United Church, Cobourg. He will be joined by the talented and popular violinist, Aidan McWatt, flown in from Ireland, in a program including Schubert, Debussy and Chopin. This will be Mr. McWatt's only public performance in Canada this year.
The concert will begin at 3 p.m. on Sunday, August 30 in Trinity United Church, Cobourg. Freewill offering.
Monday, 24 August 2009
Clareys lead battle for better tower location
Diane and Peter Clarey have not given up their battle to find a better location for an internet transmission tower in Cramahe Township.
Barrett Xplornet Inc. has contracted with Northumberland County to provide county-wide high-speed internet service. In June, Cramahe Council read a letter from Barrett explaining it was going to locate its tower in Cramahe at 191 Neil McGregor Rd. The letter also advised Council that the letter was for information only. The township did not have the authority to reject the company's proposal.
The company was required to allow a time for public response and was back at Cramahe Council on August 11, requesting concurrence to build the 30-metre tower. The report from Cramahe Development Officer, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria stated there had been one letter received during the public input period. She recommended that Council consider the request for a letter of concurrence.
The letter did not come. Cramahe Council decided that Barrett had not consulted enough with area landowners before ploughing ahead with its project and should speak to them first.
That meeting was held on August 21 at the Cramahe Township offices. Northumberland County Director of Development and Tourism, Dan Borowec, and the County-appointed project manager, Paula Preston, were at the table along with Bob Davey, Ontario General Manager of Barrett, and Les Narday, Transmission Site Development Technician for the company. The township was well represented by its CAO, Christie Alexander, Development Officer, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria, Councillor Ed Van Egmond, and Deputy Mayor Jim Williams. The Clareys were joined by neighbours, Ron and Lynanne Campbell.
Mr. Davey hoped to quell any problems and stated the meeting was to be an open forum. He explained that his company had been chosen to provide county-wide high-speed internet service to a potential 7,279 homes, and would be transmitting from 10 towers spread across the county. The tower in question will serve 533 homes.
The Cramahe tower could not be mounted on existing silos, so the company needed to raise a 30-metre tower within a certain area which was undefined at the meeting.
Mr. Narday had spoken first to Mark Hambleton at 191 Neil McGregor Rd. and Mr. Hambleton had agreed to accept the tower for an undisclosed monthly fee, reported by Mr. Davey to be a few hundred dollars a month.
In his opening statement, Mr. Davey stated he had gone up to the proposed site before the afternoon meeting and looked at another possible location on the Hambleton property which Mr. Hambleton suggested might be more aesthetically pleasing to the neighbours.
Mr. Davey thought that the cedar foliage at the base of the new location might "make it more indigenous to the setting" if anyone were to build in the area in 10 years.
The General Manager admitted the process used to locate towers and inform the public was flawed. It is a new procedure introduced by Industry Canada.
It was the procedure and lack of consultation that launched a blistering attack on the company and the county by Councillor Van Egmond. The councillor started by congratulating the company on having towers which talk to each other. "But you haven't." He referred to a letter of concern the Clareys had written in June. There had been no response by the company until after a second letter had been sent in August.
Mr. Clarey supported the councillor's comments, adding that they wouldn't even be having the August 21 meeting if Diane Clarey hadn't been so persistent. Read the rest of the story
Barrett Xplornet Inc. has contracted with Northumberland County to provide county-wide high-speed internet service. In June, Cramahe Council read a letter from Barrett explaining it was going to locate its tower in Cramahe at 191 Neil McGregor Rd. The letter also advised Council that the letter was for information only. The township did not have the authority to reject the company's proposal.
The company was required to allow a time for public response and was back at Cramahe Council on August 11, requesting concurrence to build the 30-metre tower. The report from Cramahe Development Officer, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria stated there had been one letter received during the public input period. She recommended that Council consider the request for a letter of concurrence.
The letter did not come. Cramahe Council decided that Barrett had not consulted enough with area landowners before ploughing ahead with its project and should speak to them first.
That meeting was held on August 21 at the Cramahe Township offices. Northumberland County Director of Development and Tourism, Dan Borowec, and the County-appointed project manager, Paula Preston, were at the table along with Bob Davey, Ontario General Manager of Barrett, and Les Narday, Transmission Site Development Technician for the company. The township was well represented by its CAO, Christie Alexander, Development Officer, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria, Councillor Ed Van Egmond, and Deputy Mayor Jim Williams. The Clareys were joined by neighbours, Ron and Lynanne Campbell.
Mr. Davey hoped to quell any problems and stated the meeting was to be an open forum. He explained that his company had been chosen to provide county-wide high-speed internet service to a potential 7,279 homes, and would be transmitting from 10 towers spread across the county. The tower in question will serve 533 homes.
The Cramahe tower could not be mounted on existing silos, so the company needed to raise a 30-metre tower within a certain area which was undefined at the meeting.
Mr. Narday had spoken first to Mark Hambleton at 191 Neil McGregor Rd. and Mr. Hambleton had agreed to accept the tower for an undisclosed monthly fee, reported by Mr. Davey to be a few hundred dollars a month.
In his opening statement, Mr. Davey stated he had gone up to the proposed site before the afternoon meeting and looked at another possible location on the Hambleton property which Mr. Hambleton suggested might be more aesthetically pleasing to the neighbours.
Mr. Davey thought that the cedar foliage at the base of the new location might "make it more indigenous to the setting" if anyone were to build in the area in 10 years.
The General Manager admitted the process used to locate towers and inform the public was flawed. It is a new procedure introduced by Industry Canada.
It was the procedure and lack of consultation that launched a blistering attack on the company and the county by Councillor Van Egmond. The councillor started by congratulating the company on having towers which talk to each other. "But you haven't." He referred to a letter of concern the Clareys had written in June. There had been no response by the company until after a second letter had been sent in August.
Mr. Clarey supported the councillor's comments, adding that they wouldn't even be having the August 21 meeting if Diane Clarey hadn't been so persistent. Read the rest of the story
Garden Party fun
About 40 members of the Cramahe Horticultural Society celebrated the summer with a garden party at the Ryback.Burgess home on August 24.
Can you help find this stolen property?
Can you help this reader find her stolen property?
I am appealing to the person(s) who stole a very sentimental lawn ornament and several solar moonrays from the garden in the front of my home on Friday, August 21, 2009. At this time, with no questions asked, we would appreciate the items returned. If the 4 foot polyresin angel cradling a bunny, and 3 solar moonrays have been given to someone as a gift, please consider what they meant to my family and the devastation this is causing. Constable Richardson of the Brighton detatchment would be pleased to receive these items if you have "found" them.
Between the hours of 10:30 am and 5:15 pm, someone visited my home, parked on the South side of the street in front of my home, and removed these items. Our home is covered by an excellent surveillance system, and we are reviewing the recordings, along with the police.
The garden angel is approximately 4 foot tall. She is off white in color, and is resting against a multi-grey toned rock pedestal that has blue morning glories and pink roses growing up it. She is cradling a bunny in her arms.
The garden was a result of 2 weeks intense labour of my husband and my children. It was a complement to our massive project to spruce up our frontage, and a source of tremendous pride for our family.
I am sure the thief could care less, but the angel and moonrays they stole were a surprise gift from my husband, something he saved nearly 6 months worth of spare change to buy for me. It is a crying shame that most of us have to save to purchase what we want, and others just take without care for those they are hurting. The angel was very sentimental to me, and was a dedication to a recent string of deceased family members!
The police have been called, an incident report has been recorded and we are currently reviewing security footage to find the thief. We know the items were in the yard and in tact prior to 10:30 a.m. We have agreed with the police, that if the angel and moonrays are returned before the month end, no questions will be asked and charges will not be laid. At this time, the police are actively following at least one lead, so the choice is yours!
Kim Watson
Crandall Road
Colborne, ON
I am appealing to the person(s) who stole a very sentimental lawn ornament and several solar moonrays from the garden in the front of my home on Friday, August 21, 2009. At this time, with no questions asked, we would appreciate the items returned. If the 4 foot polyresin angel cradling a bunny, and 3 solar moonrays have been given to someone as a gift, please consider what they meant to my family and the devastation this is causing. Constable Richardson of the Brighton detatchment would be pleased to receive these items if you have "found" them.
Between the hours of 10:30 am and 5:15 pm, someone visited my home, parked on the South side of the street in front of my home, and removed these items. Our home is covered by an excellent surveillance system, and we are reviewing the recordings, along with the police.
The garden angel is approximately 4 foot tall. She is off white in color, and is resting against a multi-grey toned rock pedestal that has blue morning glories and pink roses growing up it. She is cradling a bunny in her arms.
The garden was a result of 2 weeks intense labour of my husband and my children. It was a complement to our massive project to spruce up our frontage, and a source of tremendous pride for our family.
I am sure the thief could care less, but the angel and moonrays they stole were a surprise gift from my husband, something he saved nearly 6 months worth of spare change to buy for me. It is a crying shame that most of us have to save to purchase what we want, and others just take without care for those they are hurting. The angel was very sentimental to me, and was a dedication to a recent string of deceased family members!
The police have been called, an incident report has been recorded and we are currently reviewing security footage to find the thief. We know the items were in the yard and in tact prior to 10:30 a.m. We have agreed with the police, that if the angel and moonrays are returned before the month end, no questions will be asked and charges will not be laid. At this time, the police are actively following at least one lead, so the choice is yours!
Kim Watson
Crandall Road
Colborne, ON
Sunday, 23 August 2009
Castleton under 14's are tops!
Castleton Sports Club hosted the U14 Soccer Tournament Saturday, Aug. 22.
The Castleton U14 soccer team coached by Teri St.Thomas, Erich Bojarzin and Jess St.Thomas had a successful season this summer. The team's regular season schedule ended with 13 wins and 1 loss .
The team started the Saturday tournament playing Colborne and came out with a 2-0 victory on goals by John Rolfe and Justin Pardy.
Their next game was against Hastings and once again Castleton won the game 3-0 with goals by John Rolfe(2) and Justin Pardy. The team was guaranteed a spot in the A Championship game .
Havelock #2 was the opposing team and it was a hard fought win for the Castleton team, winning by a score of 2-0 with both goals comming from Travis St.Thomas.
I had three goals for this team when I was approached to coach; my first goal was that I wanted every player to get at least one goal this season, the team consisted of 19 players and 13 of those put the ball in the net at some time during the season . Most teams have one or two players that they rely on; I was fortunate to have more than 6 skilled players and another 13 players that are talented.
My second goal was to hit the 100 mark for goals for; unfortunately we came up short but still managed 90 goals, I believe we had the highest goals for out of any team from U6 right up to U18 .
My last goal was to bring the trophy for the A championship to Castleton, and we did just that.
Congratulations to the team on a successful season .
Submitted by the St. Thomas family
Minor Hockey has a ball
Every summer the executive of Colborne Cramahe Minor Hockey puts together a fun ball tournament as a fundraiser. On August 22 they were out there swatting and catching flies on the Twin Diamonds.
more photos
Saturday, 22 August 2009
The birthday crew
There was more than one significant birthday celebrated in Cramahe this weekend.
Bill Baluk celebrated his 85th birthday with family and friends at Eden Church Hall.
Viola Stickle gathered with her family in Brighton on Saturday afternoon to celebrate her 90th.
Bill Baluk celebrated his 85th birthday with family and friends at Eden Church Hall.
Viola Stickle gathered with her family in Brighton on Saturday afternoon to celebrate her 90th.
Friday, 21 August 2009
Final reminder for corn roast
Castleton resident, Graham Norcutt, gives this final reminder of the Castleton Corn Roast and Street Fair in a press release issued Friday.
Come out and enjoy Castleton’s first annual Street Fair and Corn Roast on Sunday, August 23rd. A fundraiser for the refurbishing of the Castleton Library, the day will offer something for everyone. The corn roast is a long standing tradition in Castleton and has drawn people from far and wide over the years. This year it is expanding to include a variety of other attractions.
From a dunk tank to face painting and a wandering clown; from popcorn to locally grown corn on the cob; from candy floss to jumbo hotdogs, there will be lots to enjoy. Vendors and garage sale tables will line the street with an old car show adding to the attraction. Also, there will be road ski race competitions for the agile and activities for the ‘young at heart’.
There will be a draw for interesting prizes - a Trish Romance print donated by Rhonda’s Antiques and Art - a beautiful necklace and set of ear rings, donated by Sue van de Wyst, a wireless computer printer and a three-headed shaver donated by the Norcutt Family.
The main feature of the day will be world famous Cobourg Lutheran Minister Reverend Fast, who will be attending to amaze all of us with a demonstration of his strength and dexterity.
A walking tour of Castleton will also be available to relive the local historical background and explain the different stages Castleton’s once vibrant hamlet community of 850 residents has experienced. From prime apple growing to the tobacco farming boom, an interesting tale of an era gone by will unfold.
The day will start at 10:00 a.m. and will be a fun day for the whole family. It is hoped this will become an annual fundraising event that will grow in popularity and support local events and projects.
Tables are available for vendors or garage sale items. For further information, please contact Sue at 905-344-7232 or, Graham at 905-344-7000.
Come out and enjoy Castleton’s first annual Street Fair and Corn Roast on Sunday, August 23rd. A fundraiser for the refurbishing of the Castleton Library, the day will offer something for everyone. The corn roast is a long standing tradition in Castleton and has drawn people from far and wide over the years. This year it is expanding to include a variety of other attractions.
From a dunk tank to face painting and a wandering clown; from popcorn to locally grown corn on the cob; from candy floss to jumbo hotdogs, there will be lots to enjoy. Vendors and garage sale tables will line the street with an old car show adding to the attraction. Also, there will be road ski race competitions for the agile and activities for the ‘young at heart’.
There will be a draw for interesting prizes - a Trish Romance print donated by Rhonda’s Antiques and Art - a beautiful necklace and set of ear rings, donated by Sue van de Wyst, a wireless computer printer and a three-headed shaver donated by the Norcutt Family.
The main feature of the day will be world famous Cobourg Lutheran Minister Reverend Fast, who will be attending to amaze all of us with a demonstration of his strength and dexterity.
A walking tour of Castleton will also be available to relive the local historical background and explain the different stages Castleton’s once vibrant hamlet community of 850 residents has experienced. From prime apple growing to the tobacco farming boom, an interesting tale of an era gone by will unfold.
The day will start at 10:00 a.m. and will be a fun day for the whole family. It is hoped this will become an annual fundraising event that will grow in popularity and support local events and projects.
Tables are available for vendors or garage sale items. For further information, please contact Sue at 905-344-7232 or, Graham at 905-344-7000.
Ratepayers hold summer bbq
What better way to spend a warm summer evening than at a bbq. The Cramahe Ratepayers' Association held its annual bbq at the home of Dale and John Rutherford on August 21.
Thursday, 20 August 2009
Fun with Dick and Jane on Wednesdays
The diners
When you are a husband and wife team with first names Dick and Jane you can have a lot of fun. Dick and Jane Babcock are doing a lot more than that.
On March 12, the couple, along with family and committed friends launched Fun with Dick and Jane at the VBJ Centre on Victoria Square. What is Fun with Dick and Jane? It's a free lunch program and more.
The whole idea was started by Ontario Works Outreach Worker, Marilyn Allday. She put the bug in the ear of Cindy Newman, daughter of Dick and Jane. Cindy pushed the idea until three weeks later the couple approached Cramahe Township. The idea was eagerly accepted by Cramahe Council, and a week later on March 12 the Wednesday lunch program opened at 10 a.m.
The numbers continue to grow. Last week 74 diners came for lunch. This week there were 76 as they approached their 2 p.m. closing.
The food has come from a variety of sources. The Food 4 All Foodbank warehouse has been handy. Four local farmers have brought in invaluable fresh produce. Last week there were zucchinis, beets, cucumbers and potatoes. Residents of the area have made donations too. Colborne Foodliner is providing half of the four loaves of bread they use each week. Things like margarine, milk and eggs have to be bought if they're not donated.
Easter was a happy time for the diners, thanks to the generosity of Belleville Pastor, Jim Bruce. In March the pastor donated 12 turkey loaves and 12 ham loaves worth over $1,600. When Dick and Jane hosted their August 9 "We'll Sing for Food Jamboree" in Victoria Square he showed up with 1,000 weiners. On another occasion he arrived with two huge tubs of ice cream.
Pastor Bruce feeds 280-a-day in Kingston and another 160 in Belleville.
In Colborne every other week is give-out week. Patrons at the Wednesday lunch can fill out forms when they arrive requesting food and staples they can take home. Everything from pasta to peanut butter, as well as soap and cleaning supplies is on the list. While the diners are eating, Bonnie Laurienzo, Pam Lewis, Greg Hailey, Rebecca Newman, Connor Brooks, Cindy, Dick and Jane fill the orders so the families have food to take home. On August 19, there were 25 orders to fill.
Not all the requests can be met. Sometimes the requested products aren't on the shelves. Jane says that most often happens with toiletries.
Ms. Allday explains this is about food security. It's her responsibility to create and enhance programs so that people in the area are getting enough to eat. Having the VBJ Center open for four hours a week allows her time to meet her clients anad provide them with information about services and subsidies for families in crisis.
This is more than a job or a volunteer hobby for Jane. She says she is having fun but she is committed to helping others, quietly and with the ongoing support of friends and family who believe in giving a hand up to others.
She says she will take anything. While we were standing in the VBJ Centre a donor walked in with a box of 500 bags. The Colborne Lawn Bowling Club donated the club dishes when it folded. If Dick and Jane can't use the gift for their Wednesday program, they will pass it on to someone who can. "It's all about helping each other out."
Jane can be contacted at 905 355-5222.
The "staff"
When you are a husband and wife team with first names Dick and Jane you can have a lot of fun. Dick and Jane Babcock are doing a lot more than that.
On March 12, the couple, along with family and committed friends launched Fun with Dick and Jane at the VBJ Centre on Victoria Square. What is Fun with Dick and Jane? It's a free lunch program and more.
The whole idea was started by Ontario Works Outreach Worker, Marilyn Allday. She put the bug in the ear of Cindy Newman, daughter of Dick and Jane. Cindy pushed the idea until three weeks later the couple approached Cramahe Township. The idea was eagerly accepted by Cramahe Council, and a week later on March 12 the Wednesday lunch program opened at 10 a.m.
The numbers continue to grow. Last week 74 diners came for lunch. This week there were 76 as they approached their 2 p.m. closing.
The food has come from a variety of sources. The Food 4 All Foodbank warehouse has been handy. Four local farmers have brought in invaluable fresh produce. Last week there were zucchinis, beets, cucumbers and potatoes. Residents of the area have made donations too. Colborne Foodliner is providing half of the four loaves of bread they use each week. Things like margarine, milk and eggs have to be bought if they're not donated.
Easter was a happy time for the diners, thanks to the generosity of Belleville Pastor, Jim Bruce. In March the pastor donated 12 turkey loaves and 12 ham loaves worth over $1,600. When Dick and Jane hosted their August 9 "We'll Sing for Food Jamboree" in Victoria Square he showed up with 1,000 weiners. On another occasion he arrived with two huge tubs of ice cream.
Pastor Bruce feeds 280-a-day in Kingston and another 160 in Belleville.
In Colborne every other week is give-out week. Patrons at the Wednesday lunch can fill out forms when they arrive requesting food and staples they can take home. Everything from pasta to peanut butter, as well as soap and cleaning supplies is on the list. While the diners are eating, Bonnie Laurienzo, Pam Lewis, Greg Hailey, Rebecca Newman, Connor Brooks, Cindy, Dick and Jane fill the orders so the families have food to take home. On August 19, there were 25 orders to fill.
Not all the requests can be met. Sometimes the requested products aren't on the shelves. Jane says that most often happens with toiletries.
Ms. Allday explains this is about food security. It's her responsibility to create and enhance programs so that people in the area are getting enough to eat. Having the VBJ Center open for four hours a week allows her time to meet her clients anad provide them with information about services and subsidies for families in crisis.
This is more than a job or a volunteer hobby for Jane. She says she is having fun but she is committed to helping others, quietly and with the ongoing support of friends and family who believe in giving a hand up to others.
She says she will take anything. While we were standing in the VBJ Centre a donor walked in with a box of 500 bags. The Colborne Lawn Bowling Club donated the club dishes when it folded. If Dick and Jane can't use the gift for their Wednesday program, they will pass it on to someone who can. "It's all about helping each other out."
Jane can be contacted at 905 355-5222.
The "staff"
Wednesday, 19 August 2009
People unhappy with internet tower process
The plan by Barrett Xplore Inc. to raise a tower at 191 Neil McGregor Rd. in Cramahe Township has hit a snag.
The company has contracted with Northumberland County to provide county-wide high-speed internet service. In June, Cramahe Council read a letter from Barrett explaining where it was going to locate its tower in Cramahe. The letter also advised Council that the letter was for information. The township did not have the authority to reject the company's proposal.
The company was required to allow a time for public response and was back at Cramahe on August 11, requesting concurrence to build the 30-metre tower. The report from Cramahe Development Officer, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria stated there had been one letter received during the public input period. She recommended that Council consider the request for a letter of concurrence.
And that's when the process hit a snag.
In her opening comments to council on August 11, Ms. Goddard-Sarria stated she had been in discussions with Nic Parker of Barrett regarding the land owned by Peter and Diane Clarey adjacent to the proposed tower site. The Clareys expressed their concern about the location in a letter to Barrett and have repeatedly attempted to engage the company in a discussion of the site. They have yet to have anyone from the company call them, despite numerous emails sent by the family. The proposed tower would obstruct the view of a dream home they have been planning since they bought the property more than 10 years ago.
At council the Development Officer wondered aloud where the Clareys wanted to put their home. When asked by Mayor Marc Coombs if she had met with the Clareys, Ms. Goddard-Sarria admitted she had not.
Councillor Ed Van Egmond jumped in at that point to state he had problems with that. The Clareys had sent their letter in June and had not yet been contacted verbally. He worried about having a big business push its proposals through.
The councillor had obviously done his homework on this one. He knew that the house planned by the Clareys would sit 20 feet higher than the base of the tower, leaving 60-70 feet visible in the best site line of the home. It was not right to do this to a family which had made plans. He added his concern that Barrett hadn't felt it important enough to talk to the Clareys. A phone conversation on August 19 to Mrs. Clarey revealed the company has not done so yet.
Councillor Van Egmond moved that Council reject the Barrett request for a letter of concurrence until the company had done its homework and "smoothed some feathers".
Councillor Pat Westrope agreed, stating her concern about a big company walking over a small-property owner.
Seeing the possibility that the company would not get its letter, Ms. Goddard-Sarria reminded Council that she had spoken to Northumberland County Consultant, Paula Preston, and Mr. Parker. "If the letter of concurrence is not approved until September 15 (the date of the next Council meeting), the whole project will be delayed," she stated. She added that, if this site is rejected and another site chosen there will be another public consultation period of 30-35 days.
Her warnings fell on deaf ears.
Mayor Coombs summarized Council's feelings, commenting, "I'm hearing from Council. We don't have the the decision-making power, but we can delay support until Barrett talks to the Clareys." The mayor hoped that a compromise might be found in discussions held on the site of the proposed tower.
In an August 19 phone conversation Mrs. Clarey said she was certain there were other alternatives to the one chosen by the internet provider which is 25 feet from her property line.
The company has contracted with Northumberland County to provide county-wide high-speed internet service. In June, Cramahe Council read a letter from Barrett explaining where it was going to locate its tower in Cramahe. The letter also advised Council that the letter was for information. The township did not have the authority to reject the company's proposal.
The company was required to allow a time for public response and was back at Cramahe on August 11, requesting concurrence to build the 30-metre tower. The report from Cramahe Development Officer, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria stated there had been one letter received during the public input period. She recommended that Council consider the request for a letter of concurrence.
And that's when the process hit a snag.
In her opening comments to council on August 11, Ms. Goddard-Sarria stated she had been in discussions with Nic Parker of Barrett regarding the land owned by Peter and Diane Clarey adjacent to the proposed tower site. The Clareys expressed their concern about the location in a letter to Barrett and have repeatedly attempted to engage the company in a discussion of the site. They have yet to have anyone from the company call them, despite numerous emails sent by the family. The proposed tower would obstruct the view of a dream home they have been planning since they bought the property more than 10 years ago.
At council the Development Officer wondered aloud where the Clareys wanted to put their home. When asked by Mayor Marc Coombs if she had met with the Clareys, Ms. Goddard-Sarria admitted she had not.
Councillor Ed Van Egmond jumped in at that point to state he had problems with that. The Clareys had sent their letter in June and had not yet been contacted verbally. He worried about having a big business push its proposals through.
The councillor had obviously done his homework on this one. He knew that the house planned by the Clareys would sit 20 feet higher than the base of the tower, leaving 60-70 feet visible in the best site line of the home. It was not right to do this to a family which had made plans. He added his concern that Barrett hadn't felt it important enough to talk to the Clareys. A phone conversation on August 19 to Mrs. Clarey revealed the company has not done so yet.
Councillor Van Egmond moved that Council reject the Barrett request for a letter of concurrence until the company had done its homework and "smoothed some feathers".
Councillor Pat Westrope agreed, stating her concern about a big company walking over a small-property owner.
Seeing the possibility that the company would not get its letter, Ms. Goddard-Sarria reminded Council that she had spoken to Northumberland County Consultant, Paula Preston, and Mr. Parker. "If the letter of concurrence is not approved until September 15 (the date of the next Council meeting), the whole project will be delayed," she stated. She added that, if this site is rejected and another site chosen there will be another public consultation period of 30-35 days.
Her warnings fell on deaf ears.
Mayor Coombs summarized Council's feelings, commenting, "I'm hearing from Council. We don't have the the decision-making power, but we can delay support until Barrett talks to the Clareys." The mayor hoped that a compromise might be found in discussions held on the site of the proposed tower.
In an August 19 phone conversation Mrs. Clarey said she was certain there were other alternatives to the one chosen by the internet provider which is 25 feet from her property line.
Reader empathizes with Clareys
Cramahe Now reader Tom Philp was concerned when he read about the Clarey family and the proposed internet tower. Mr. Philp's comments are below:
This is another prime example of how much Rebecca Goddard-Sarria is out of her element as a "development officer". She has NO qualifications in this regard; she is, and always has been, a tourism person. And she failed miserably at that in Port Hope. (A check with that municipality ... something Mayor Coombs and company obviously didn't do before hiring her as a part-time employee several years ago ... would reveal her flaws. In this case, she doesn't know the Clareys ... hasn't so much as spoken to them ... yet recommends ruining their dream.
Cramahe had a QUALIFIED development officer in Becky Bonisteel, a long-serving employee of the township who was unceremoniously dumped by council last year in favour of an eminently less qualified building inspector and a promotion to full-time status for Mrs. Goddard-Saria.
It leads one to wonder what kind of logic Cramahe council will then ultimately use to resolve this tower problem. Frankly, if council uses the logic demonstrated when Bonisteel was fired and this tourism person was promoted (a shining example of the Peter Principle), then the Clareys can probably kiss their dream home goodbye.
Tom Philp
This is another prime example of how much Rebecca Goddard-Sarria is out of her element as a "development officer". She has NO qualifications in this regard; she is, and always has been, a tourism person. And she failed miserably at that in Port Hope. (A check with that municipality ... something Mayor Coombs and company obviously didn't do before hiring her as a part-time employee several years ago ... would reveal her flaws. In this case, she doesn't know the Clareys ... hasn't so much as spoken to them ... yet recommends ruining their dream.
Cramahe had a QUALIFIED development officer in Becky Bonisteel, a long-serving employee of the township who was unceremoniously dumped by council last year in favour of an eminently less qualified building inspector and a promotion to full-time status for Mrs. Goddard-Saria.
It leads one to wonder what kind of logic Cramahe council will then ultimately use to resolve this tower problem. Frankly, if council uses the logic demonstrated when Bonisteel was fired and this tourism person was promoted (a shining example of the Peter Principle), then the Clareys can probably kiss their dream home goodbye.
Tom Philp
Tuesday, 18 August 2009
Colborne men take Ontario silver
The Colborne Merchants from left, are - Front Row: Mary Ainsworth(G.M.), Al Cormier, Doug Carr, Mo Rock, Brian Sherwin, Greg Hodges, Rory Gill (Coach), Mark Cormier. Behind - Alex Rutherford (Trainer), Taylor Highfield, Trevor Sherwin, Nica Clarey, Mike Behan, Jason Benne, Barry Walters(Coach).
The Colborne Merchants got off to a late start but it didn't slow them down in their quest for a Provincial "B" Championship Silver Medal in Wiarton last weekend.
The Merchants were scheduled to face the Kitchener Selects at 10 p.m. on Friday but didn't start their Ontario Amateur Softball Association (OASA) contest until midnight. The end result was a win in the C Pool for the Merchants. The men put that together with a win against the Ottawa Blitz on Saturday to top the pool and advance to the playoffs.
The first round of the playoffs in the 12-team tourney saw Colborne playing the Breslau Badgers. A grand slam in the top of the sixth by Jason Benne gave Colborne the win.
A 9:00 a.m. game brought the boys back to the diamond to play the always tough Enterprise Oasis Pools team. Colborne was again behind early but battled back to a 4-3 victory that put them in the finals against the Wiarton Nationals.
Wiarton Nationals scored two runs in the first inning of the August 16 contest on two tough fly balls to the right side. There was no further scoring until the top of the sixth when Brian "Cubby" Sherwin hit a 3 run homer to put Colborne ahead. Wiarton scored two more runs in the bottom of the sixth to close the scoring. The home town Wiarton Nationals held on to win 5-3.
Monday, 17 August 2009
Anamet planning expansion
Anamet Canada, located in the southwest corner of Cramahe Township in Lakeport, is planning an expansion.
The company received approval from Cramahe Council at an August 11 public meeting to move forward with plans to expand the east side of its plant by 2,368 square feet. Township approval was needed to change the zoning on a portion of the Anamet land from environmental conservation (EC) to general industrial. Approximately half of the addition will sit on former EC land.
With the passage of the bylaw on August 11, Anamet can now make a site plan application to the township.
The change in zoning was recommended by the township planning consultant, Peter Josephs. Mr. Josephs is doing some of the work done by former Director of Development, Becky Bonisteel.
To achieve the rezoning the township had to allow a change in the setback from the high-water mark of the adjacent creek. The township zoning bylaw normally requires a 30-metre setback. Anamet's will be 20 metres. Normally buildings on a manufacturing site cannot exceed 30% of the area of the property. Anamet will be allowed to cover 35% of its property.
Even though the building is located in an area of mixed rural and rural residential land uses, the Josephs' report did not feel there would be problems as the building is screened trees on the east and the existing building on the west.
The addition will not require new water or sewage services.
The company received approval from Cramahe Council at an August 11 public meeting to move forward with plans to expand the east side of its plant by 2,368 square feet. Township approval was needed to change the zoning on a portion of the Anamet land from environmental conservation (EC) to general industrial. Approximately half of the addition will sit on former EC land.
With the passage of the bylaw on August 11, Anamet can now make a site plan application to the township.
The change in zoning was recommended by the township planning consultant, Peter Josephs. Mr. Josephs is doing some of the work done by former Director of Development, Becky Bonisteel.
To achieve the rezoning the township had to allow a change in the setback from the high-water mark of the adjacent creek. The township zoning bylaw normally requires a 30-metre setback. Anamet's will be 20 metres. Normally buildings on a manufacturing site cannot exceed 30% of the area of the property. Anamet will be allowed to cover 35% of its property.
Even though the building is located in an area of mixed rural and rural residential land uses, the Josephs' report did not feel there would be problems as the building is screened trees on the east and the existing building on the west.
The addition will not require new water or sewage services.
Colborne Public School break in
The OPP reported a break in on Agust 14 at Colborne Public School. The report reads:
"(Colborne, ON.)- On the 14th of August 2009 at approximately 12:57pm the Northumberland OPP responded to a break and enter located at a school on Alfred Street in Colborne. The suspects gained entry to the school but did not take anything.
The OPP is asking for the public’s assistance in this investigation. Anyone with information into this crime is asked to call the Northumberland OPP at 613-475-1313 or call CRIMESTOPPERS at 1-800-222-TIPS. CRIMESTOPPERS does not subscribe to call display and callers could be eligible for a cash reward. "
Windows have been smashed at the school on numerous occasions this summer.
"(Colborne, ON.)- On the 14th of August 2009 at approximately 12:57pm the Northumberland OPP responded to a break and enter located at a school on Alfred Street in Colborne. The suspects gained entry to the school but did not take anything.
The OPP is asking for the public’s assistance in this investigation. Anyone with information into this crime is asked to call the Northumberland OPP at 613-475-1313 or call CRIMESTOPPERS at 1-800-222-TIPS. CRIMESTOPPERS does not subscribe to call display and callers could be eligible for a cash reward. "
Windows have been smashed at the school on numerous occasions this summer.
Sunday, 16 August 2009
Vi Warren's birthday will be a celebration
When Cramahe resident, Vi Warren celebrates her 90th birthday on October 17 there willl many who join the celebration. To commemorate her long and storied aviation career a commemorative stamp will issued. Marilyn Dickson tells her story below.
Ninety-Nines Create Stamp to Honour Vi Milstead
By Marilyn Dickson
In 2008 the East Canada Section of the Ninety-Nines, an international organization of women pilots, launched a plan to honour noteworthy Canadian women pilots.
Through Canada Post’s Picture Postage program the Ninety-Nines have designed stamps which can be used as regular letter postage within Canada. The 2008 stamp celebrated Eileen Vollick’s accomplishment as Canada’s first female licensed pilot.
Our 2009 stamp will honour Vi Milstead Warren who lives just east of Colborne in a log home featuring a wind generator and solar panels. Vi and her husband Arnold moved to Colborne soon after their retirement. At first they spent summers in the Magdallen Islands and winters in Colborne, often flying back and forth in their Piper Cub or Mooney airplane. Then they bought and renovated their North Street home which Arnold’s family had owned several years earlier.
For many years Vi and Arnold were active within the community in a variety of ways, particularly through the Rotary and Inner Wheel clubs. Vi also volunteered at Second Helpings, the Colborne Elementary School and delivering Meals on Wheels.
As a young teenager during the depression of the thirties, Vi worked long hours for four years, saving her money until she had enough to pay for flying lessons – quite a commitment for a teenaged girl at a time when very few females were interested in becoming pilots.
On September 4, 1939 Vi had her first flying lesson, just as war was declared in Europe. By December 14, she passed the flight test for her Private Pilot License. During this time Vi’s instructor Pat Patterson produced a film Learning To Fly which chronicled Vi’s flight training. Mr. Patterson planned to use the film to stimulate interest in flying among the general public, hoping to gain more students at his Barker Field flight school. No doubt he chose a female student in order to show that even women could pilot airplanes.
By the end of March, 1940, a little over three months after earning her Private License, Vi completed the requirements for the Limited Commercial Pilot License.
Vi soon became one of the first Canadian women to find employment as a pilot. The onset of the war had stimulated considerable interest in flying among young men.
With the rapid increase of men joining the air force, Pat Patterson found it increasingly difficult to find and keep instructors, so he offered to finance Vi’s Instructor Rating if she would then work for his school.
This sounded like a good offer to Vi. She completed her Instructor Rating in July 1941 and then instructed at Patterson and Hill at Barker Field. During this time she taught many students to fly, including a few women. Several of her male students joined the RCAF and went on to distinguish themselves during the war and afterwards with aviation careers. She continued to instruct until wartime fuel rationing brought a halt to all civilian flying, in late November 1942.
The loss of her instructing job led Vi to seek employment further afield when one of her students, Jack Ball told her about the Air Transport Auxiliary in Britain. Hired early in 1943, Vi flew with the ATA, delivering military aircraft from factories to maintenance units and to RAF bases. Achieving the rank of First Officer, Vi was the longest serving Canadian woman with the ATA. She flew more hours on more types of aircraft than any other Canadian woman, logging 47 different types of aircraft (74 different marks) including Spitfire, Mosquito, Hudson, Beaufort, Boston, Wellington and Welkin.
In 1947 Vi became Canada’s first woman bush pilot when she worked with Nickel Belt Airways in Sudbury. This work included flying surveyors to inspect mining sites or trappers returning home with supplies. She also flew men who had been recruited in beer parlours to fight local forest fires, and had to encourage the odd one to leave the comfort of the airplane and get on with fire-fighting.
The Ninety-Nines invite all Canadians interested in aviation to celebrate Vi Milstead’s remarkable career by buying and using this stamp created in her honour. What a great way to let your friends know about Vi Milstead!
Designed by Ninety-Nines member Suzanne Wiltshire, the Vi Milstead stamp features a portrait of Vi in her Air Transport Auxiliary uniform. In the background we see a twin engine Mosquito, one of the many types of aircraft she flew during the war.
The stamp will be available in three forms. Domestic Postage sheets of 40 can be used as regular letter postage, even after the rate increases - $38.
The Keepsake sheet features 20 regular sized stamps plus one large picture of the stamp - $28.
A limited number of First Day Covers are available for $5 each. They will be of particular interest to the stamp collectors among your friends and family.
Sheets of 40 stamps, Keepsake sheets and First Day Covers may be ordered by mail from Bev Fraser, Box 56060, Fiesta Outlet, Stoney Creek, ON, L8G 5C9. An additional $3 cost will be required for mail orders.
The stamp will be released on October 17, 2009, Vi’s 90th birthday. Stamp orders must be received by Friday, September 18, 2009. Stamps and First Day Covers will be mailed in time for you to use them on Christmas cards, or to give to the stamp collectors on your shopping list.
Please note that Vi Milstead stamps are not available at postal outlets.
Hit the link to read excerpts of the story of her Order of Canada award in 2004.
Vi Warren receives Order of Canada
You can place an order using the form below. Click on the form to enlarge it, then print it and fill it out.
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Ninety-Nines Create Stamp to Honour Vi Milstead
By Marilyn Dickson
In 2008 the East Canada Section of the Ninety-Nines, an international organization of women pilots, launched a plan to honour noteworthy Canadian women pilots.
Through Canada Post’s Picture Postage program the Ninety-Nines have designed stamps which can be used as regular letter postage within Canada. The 2008 stamp celebrated Eileen Vollick’s accomplishment as Canada’s first female licensed pilot.
Our 2009 stamp will honour Vi Milstead Warren who lives just east of Colborne in a log home featuring a wind generator and solar panels. Vi and her husband Arnold moved to Colborne soon after their retirement. At first they spent summers in the Magdallen Islands and winters in Colborne, often flying back and forth in their Piper Cub or Mooney airplane. Then they bought and renovated their North Street home which Arnold’s family had owned several years earlier.
For many years Vi and Arnold were active within the community in a variety of ways, particularly through the Rotary and Inner Wheel clubs. Vi also volunteered at Second Helpings, the Colborne Elementary School and delivering Meals on Wheels.
As a young teenager during the depression of the thirties, Vi worked long hours for four years, saving her money until she had enough to pay for flying lessons – quite a commitment for a teenaged girl at a time when very few females were interested in becoming pilots.
On September 4, 1939 Vi had her first flying lesson, just as war was declared in Europe. By December 14, she passed the flight test for her Private Pilot License. During this time Vi’s instructor Pat Patterson produced a film Learning To Fly which chronicled Vi’s flight training. Mr. Patterson planned to use the film to stimulate interest in flying among the general public, hoping to gain more students at his Barker Field flight school. No doubt he chose a female student in order to show that even women could pilot airplanes.
By the end of March, 1940, a little over three months after earning her Private License, Vi completed the requirements for the Limited Commercial Pilot License.
Vi soon became one of the first Canadian women to find employment as a pilot. The onset of the war had stimulated considerable interest in flying among young men.
With the rapid increase of men joining the air force, Pat Patterson found it increasingly difficult to find and keep instructors, so he offered to finance Vi’s Instructor Rating if she would then work for his school.
This sounded like a good offer to Vi. She completed her Instructor Rating in July 1941 and then instructed at Patterson and Hill at Barker Field. During this time she taught many students to fly, including a few women. Several of her male students joined the RCAF and went on to distinguish themselves during the war and afterwards with aviation careers. She continued to instruct until wartime fuel rationing brought a halt to all civilian flying, in late November 1942.
The loss of her instructing job led Vi to seek employment further afield when one of her students, Jack Ball told her about the Air Transport Auxiliary in Britain. Hired early in 1943, Vi flew with the ATA, delivering military aircraft from factories to maintenance units and to RAF bases. Achieving the rank of First Officer, Vi was the longest serving Canadian woman with the ATA. She flew more hours on more types of aircraft than any other Canadian woman, logging 47 different types of aircraft (74 different marks) including Spitfire, Mosquito, Hudson, Beaufort, Boston, Wellington and Welkin.
In 1947 Vi became Canada’s first woman bush pilot when she worked with Nickel Belt Airways in Sudbury. This work included flying surveyors to inspect mining sites or trappers returning home with supplies. She also flew men who had been recruited in beer parlours to fight local forest fires, and had to encourage the odd one to leave the comfort of the airplane and get on with fire-fighting.
The Ninety-Nines invite all Canadians interested in aviation to celebrate Vi Milstead’s remarkable career by buying and using this stamp created in her honour. What a great way to let your friends know about Vi Milstead!
Designed by Ninety-Nines member Suzanne Wiltshire, the Vi Milstead stamp features a portrait of Vi in her Air Transport Auxiliary uniform. In the background we see a twin engine Mosquito, one of the many types of aircraft she flew during the war.
The stamp will be available in three forms. Domestic Postage sheets of 40 can be used as regular letter postage, even after the rate increases - $38.
The Keepsake sheet features 20 regular sized stamps plus one large picture of the stamp - $28.
A limited number of First Day Covers are available for $5 each. They will be of particular interest to the stamp collectors among your friends and family.
Sheets of 40 stamps, Keepsake sheets and First Day Covers may be ordered by mail from Bev Fraser, Box 56060, Fiesta Outlet, Stoney Creek, ON, L8G 5C9. An additional $3 cost will be required for mail orders.
The stamp will be released on October 17, 2009, Vi’s 90th birthday. Stamp orders must be received by Friday, September 18, 2009. Stamps and First Day Covers will be mailed in time for you to use them on Christmas cards, or to give to the stamp collectors on your shopping list.
Please note that Vi Milstead stamps are not available at postal outlets.
Hit the link to read excerpts of the story of her Order of Canada award in 2004.
Vi Warren receives Order of Canada
You can place an order using the form below. Click on the form to enlarge it, then print it and fill it out.
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T'n'T vendor disagrees
The dispute continues regarding the closing time for the Trash 'n' Treasures Day. Cramahe Now reader Roseanne Quinn refutes comments made by Cramahe Development Officer, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria.
Ms. Quinn writes:
I don't know who Rebecca Goddard-Sarria may be referring to when she says "the
only person complaining about the 2 p.m. closing time was informed of it earlier". If she's referring to me, I knew nothing about it closing at 2 p.m. The Cramahe office staff I phoned to rent tables from didn't mention it and I hadn't seen any advertising about it as I don't get any local papers. As for Mayor Marc Coombs referring to the "early" opening time this year, Trash and Treasures has actually had vendors like me setting up at 5 a.m. for years.
I guess it isn't until the powers that be actually show up at these events that they see what goes on. Ms. Goddard-Sarria is new to this area and knows very little about how things worked before she came - they worked very well I might add, with set up by non-paid volunteers. Somehow things get more complicated when people have to be paid for their work. I guess that's why they won't stick around on a Saturday after 2 p.m.
Roseanne Quinn
Colborne
Ms. Quinn writes:
I don't know who Rebecca Goddard-Sarria may be referring to when she says "the
only person complaining about the 2 p.m. closing time was informed of it earlier". If she's referring to me, I knew nothing about it closing at 2 p.m. The Cramahe office staff I phoned to rent tables from didn't mention it and I hadn't seen any advertising about it as I don't get any local papers. As for Mayor Marc Coombs referring to the "early" opening time this year, Trash and Treasures has actually had vendors like me setting up at 5 a.m. for years.
I guess it isn't until the powers that be actually show up at these events that they see what goes on. Ms. Goddard-Sarria is new to this area and knows very little about how things worked before she came - they worked very well I might add, with set up by non-paid volunteers. Somehow things get more complicated when people have to be paid for their work. I guess that's why they won't stick around on a Saturday after 2 p.m.
Roseanne Quinn
Colborne
How much are those signs?
If Cramahe Township Council was confused in its discussion of new signs for the former village of Colborne and surrounding hamlets, it's not surprising.
A report by Community Development Officer Rebecca Goddard-Sarria explained that $3,218 remained from the $20,000 budget for gateway signs approved earlier by Council. Ms. Goddard-Sarria proposed that the township use the remaining funds for signs at the east end of Colborne and on Percy St. at Walter Eddy Park.
The Community Development Officer had gotten a price from Carved in Stone, the company which produced the boundary signs.
It was the interpretation of the quote that had council confused.
Councillor Pat Westrope pointed out that the Goddard-Sarria report stated two different prices in two different places. One statement read, "$1,690 for two signs". Later the report stated the cost was $3,380.
Ms. Goddard-Sarria affirmed the cost was $1,690, launching a discussion about what to do with the remaining money and a recommendation that she return to council with suggestions.
Alas, it was too good to be true.
The Development Officer spoke up at the end of the meeting. She had found the paperwork. The two signs will cost $3,380.
A report by Community Development Officer Rebecca Goddard-Sarria explained that $3,218 remained from the $20,000 budget for gateway signs approved earlier by Council. Ms. Goddard-Sarria proposed that the township use the remaining funds for signs at the east end of Colborne and on Percy St. at Walter Eddy Park.
The Community Development Officer had gotten a price from Carved in Stone, the company which produced the boundary signs.
It was the interpretation of the quote that had council confused.
Councillor Pat Westrope pointed out that the Goddard-Sarria report stated two different prices in two different places. One statement read, "$1,690 for two signs". Later the report stated the cost was $3,380.
Ms. Goddard-Sarria affirmed the cost was $1,690, launching a discussion about what to do with the remaining money and a recommendation that she return to council with suggestions.
Alas, it was too good to be true.
The Development Officer spoke up at the end of the meeting. She had found the paperwork. The two signs will cost $3,380.
Friday, 14 August 2009
School's out at School's Cool
Thursday was graduation day for the 24 kids in the Colborne School's Cool program. With parents an families on hand the 3-5-year-olds sang their songs and took their bows at the end of the school-readiness sessions held at Colborne Public School.
For six weeks the tots picked up social and learning skills which will make them more successful when they enter school in September. Sasha Korper coordinated the Colborne program. Ms. Korper zealously promotes the advantages the children gain and the instructional methods used by her three instructors, Krista Kernaghan, Julie Deladurante, and Brittney Lammers.
It's all about motivating the kids to be excited about the program she says. To illustrate her point, Ms. Korper relates a story about the kids requesting a re-reading of a story while they were outside at play time. They were motivated by the fun of the story and the interactions.
"Studies tell us that the success of kids in their early years is a predictor of success in their school careers" she says. The Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board and YMCA Northumberland recognise the need for readiness she added.
Part of that readiness involves socialization. It's all right to have feelings, but you have to use words to express them and to solve problems. Its about giving all kids the tools so they can share and participate. They're lifelong lessons.
The leaders of Colborne's School's Cool Program were - Sasha Korpers, Brittney Lammers, Krista Kernaghan, and Julie Deladurante.
Instructor, Krista Kernaghan agreed. The veteran of School's Cool spoke of the socializing skills and reading and writing, and readiness skills taught. The kids learn to follow routines and respond to instruction.
The School's Cool Coordinator, Trelani Chapman describes it as a play-based school-readiness program which uses outcome-based curriculum.
Schools' Cool ran four mornings a week in five Northumberland County centres this summer. The cost is $100 but the fee is waived if the parents can't afford to pay. They contribute as they can.
Thank you Mr. Ashbridge for looking after the school for us.
Come to the corn roast and fun fair
Keep Sunday, August 23 open - there's going to be lots happening in Castleton between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
It's the annual street fair and corn roast. Corn, burgers, hot dogs,candy floss, popcorn, a dunk tank with several "celebrities" volunteering their services - it's all going to be there.
If that's not enough there will be a garage sale, an old car show, road ski races and walking tours of the hamlet.
The special feature this year will be Cobourg Lutheran Minister Rev. Fast pulling his way.
If you want to join the vendors call 905 344-7232 or 905 344-7000.
All proceeds will go to the Castleton Library restoration.
It's the annual street fair and corn roast. Corn, burgers, hot dogs,candy floss, popcorn, a dunk tank with several "celebrities" volunteering their services - it's all going to be there.
If that's not enough there will be a garage sale, an old car show, road ski races and walking tours of the hamlet.
The special feature this year will be Cobourg Lutheran Minister Rev. Fast pulling his way.
If you want to join the vendors call 905 344-7232 or 905 344-7000.
All proceeds will go to the Castleton Library restoration.
Thursday, 13 August 2009
Community Care picnic by Kelli
We continue to receive and welcome submissions from members of the community. Kelli Rusaw was at the Community Care Picnic in Eddystone on August 12, camera in hand. She has sent us a marvellous array of shots which capture the day. Thanks, Kelli.
Follow the link to her gallery.
Community Care Picnic
Follow the link to her gallery.
Community Care Picnic
Codrington pit proposal strikes a nerve
The letter to Cramahe Now by C C Rider has sparked another comment this week by L Cowburn regarding the proposed gravel pit near Codrington:
I, too, am a resident of Codrington Community and have moved from Montreal for the very reasons you cited. I have been to the information session at Codrington Hall July 30 and at the Brighton Community Centre with a meeting of Council this past night August 10, 2009 at 8 pm.
The information session on the part of CBM was poor and lacking answers to our questions of their "experts". It seemed as though the representatives from St. Mary's Cement and CBM felt that they would be able to run this through without hesitation.
Last night's meeting served to voice our dissent as residents not only of Codrington but of Northumberland County. And we certainly did so! This area is a jewel in Ontario's crown for scenery, wildlife, fishing, tourism, arts, both performing and otherwise.
What I do not think the members of CBM and St. Mary's realize is that most of the residents who currently live here do so because we CHOOSE to live here. We have mostly all come from other parts of the province, other provinces and from overseas to live in this pastoral and bountiful area of the province. Every one who comes here comments on its beauty and the fish and game as well as the birding resources that it holds and last but not least, the beauty of the quiet.
I am firmly against the scarring of this land and endangering its residents' health with dust, noise pollution,light pollution from the 24 processing plant proposed and careening gravel trucks down our roads that are ill equipped to handle the concentration of weight day in and day out.
Thank you,
L. Cowburn
I, too, am a resident of Codrington Community and have moved from Montreal for the very reasons you cited. I have been to the information session at Codrington Hall July 30 and at the Brighton Community Centre with a meeting of Council this past night August 10, 2009 at 8 pm.
The information session on the part of CBM was poor and lacking answers to our questions of their "experts". It seemed as though the representatives from St. Mary's Cement and CBM felt that they would be able to run this through without hesitation.
Last night's meeting served to voice our dissent as residents not only of Codrington but of Northumberland County. And we certainly did so! This area is a jewel in Ontario's crown for scenery, wildlife, fishing, tourism, arts, both performing and otherwise.
What I do not think the members of CBM and St. Mary's realize is that most of the residents who currently live here do so because we CHOOSE to live here. We have mostly all come from other parts of the province, other provinces and from overseas to live in this pastoral and bountiful area of the province. Every one who comes here comments on its beauty and the fish and game as well as the birding resources that it holds and last but not least, the beauty of the quiet.
I am firmly against the scarring of this land and endangering its residents' health with dust, noise pollution,light pollution from the 24 processing plant proposed and careening gravel trucks down our roads that are ill equipped to handle the concentration of weight day in and day out.
Thank you,
L. Cowburn
Harold offers his appreciation
There are many kind and generous people in this community. Harold Harnden must be near the top of the list. We print his letter with much humility.
A note to our Editors;
Bob and Lesley Owen;
Since the demise of our local newspaper,the Colborne Chronicle, we the people of Colborne-Cramahe have been very well served by you, Bob, with the assistance of Lesley in providing timely news coverage through your blog "Cramahe-Now. This is not new as you provided the same service when with the Chronicle.
At any special event (and there are many) that camera appears and magic happens. Those of us fortunate enough to be connected to the internet can be assured of reading about and seeing the pictures of each episode early the following morning.
The weekend of August 1 and 2, 2009 was no exception and indeed was probably one of the most important functions to be covered by your trusted camera since you began this work. The 150th. birthday of Colborne Village was I believe, a resounding success. So many people,so many functions including members of Colborne's famous Band and Baton Core,strutting their stuff as they did nearly fifty years ago. The parade which wended it's way from the Keeler Center up Division St. across North St. to Victoria and up to King St. around the park was enjoyed by all.
Special events in the park and the cutting of the ribbon for the Gazebo,all covered
Bob, by you behind the lens of that ever ready camera. You also found time to cover the Dollhouse and Quilt show.
Then came evening and the school reunions,both Public and Colborne High School
gatherings at our own Keeler Center. And who was there? Bob Owen with his famous
camera.
Sunday morning found the Owens there, for the "Four Clergy Church Service"along
with Eagle Band Ministries. The Colborne Town Bell,donated in 1906 by James Coyle Sr.
was duly dedicated and the ribbon was cut. Lastly the Birthday Cake was cut and distributed to any and all to enjoy.
Thank you Bob and Lesley, we appreciate you both and your loyalty to our community.
Harold Harnden
A note to our Editors;
Bob and Lesley Owen;
Since the demise of our local newspaper,the Colborne Chronicle, we the people of Colborne-Cramahe have been very well served by you, Bob, with the assistance of Lesley in providing timely news coverage through your blog "Cramahe-Now. This is not new as you provided the same service when with the Chronicle.
At any special event (and there are many) that camera appears and magic happens. Those of us fortunate enough to be connected to the internet can be assured of reading about and seeing the pictures of each episode early the following morning.
The weekend of August 1 and 2, 2009 was no exception and indeed was probably one of the most important functions to be covered by your trusted camera since you began this work. The 150th. birthday of Colborne Village was I believe, a resounding success. So many people,so many functions including members of Colborne's famous Band and Baton Core,strutting their stuff as they did nearly fifty years ago. The parade which wended it's way from the Keeler Center up Division St. across North St. to Victoria and up to King St. around the park was enjoyed by all.
Special events in the park and the cutting of the ribbon for the Gazebo,all covered
Bob, by you behind the lens of that ever ready camera. You also found time to cover the Dollhouse and Quilt show.
Then came evening and the school reunions,both Public and Colborne High School
gatherings at our own Keeler Center. And who was there? Bob Owen with his famous
camera.
Sunday morning found the Owens there, for the "Four Clergy Church Service"along
with Eagle Band Ministries. The Colborne Town Bell,donated in 1906 by James Coyle Sr.
was duly dedicated and the ribbon was cut. Lastly the Birthday Cake was cut and distributed to any and all to enjoy.
Thank you Bob and Lesley, we appreciate you both and your loyalty to our community.
Harold Harnden
Better late than never - road gets a name
Nobody is sure how it happened but the road which has run along the side of the Castleton Cemetery for at least 130 years has no name.
In her report to Cramahe Township Council on August 11, Chief Building Official Natalie Moroz-Cornell referred to Bylaw 334 passed in 1879 which opened the road. It has been in use ever since and maintained by the Castleton Cemetery Board.
Somehow it was left off when the township did its mapping of roads, despite the fact it is an open road and services the Castleton Sports Club Fields.
The staffer suggested that it was time for council to correct the omission and proposed the road be named Cemetery Rd.
Roseanne Quinn is the Vice-Chair of the Castleton Cemetery Board, and, by chance, was at the meeting. She assured council the board would be happy to hear the news when it meets next in April, 2010. She felt they would be pleased with the name.
The cemetery has been in use since the 1850’s and possibly earlier. It is not known exactly when the road came into use to service the west side of the cemetery but the road is not in the 1873 atlas which contains a map of the township. There is no known written record which gives the name of the road.
In her report to Cramahe Township Council on August 11, Chief Building Official Natalie Moroz-Cornell referred to Bylaw 334 passed in 1879 which opened the road. It has been in use ever since and maintained by the Castleton Cemetery Board.
Somehow it was left off when the township did its mapping of roads, despite the fact it is an open road and services the Castleton Sports Club Fields.
The staffer suggested that it was time for council to correct the omission and proposed the road be named Cemetery Rd.
Roseanne Quinn is the Vice-Chair of the Castleton Cemetery Board, and, by chance, was at the meeting. She assured council the board would be happy to hear the news when it meets next in April, 2010. She felt they would be pleased with the name.
The cemetery has been in use since the 1850’s and possibly earlier. It is not known exactly when the road came into use to service the west side of the cemetery but the road is not in the 1873 atlas which contains a map of the township. There is no known written record which gives the name of the road.
Oak Ridges Moraine Trail shifts
Cramahe Township Council learned on August 11 that the Oak Ridges Trail will take a new path through the municipality.
After hearing from residents, the Oak Ridges Trail Association and the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation have settled on a new interim course and a proposed long-term preferred tail. The new routes will traverse open and unopened road allowances instead of roadways.
Fred Johnson commented in his verbal report that the moraine group had received a "strong message" from landowners who didn't like the Jakobi stretch of the trail
A section that was proposed for Jakobi Rd. will be moved to Dawson Rd, which Mr. Johnson says is a "wonderful path". New parking will be available at the Castleton Playing Fields, the Warkworth Fairgrounds and the Oak Heights Winery. Walkers will travel from Pine St. in Castleton up Mount Pleasant Rd and on to Dawson and from there on to an unopened road allowance to Russ Creek and the red Cloud School Rd. Fron there it will proceed to Warkworth, ending at the Fairgrounds.
The new route will allow the trail to have two eastern gateways.
The background paper provided by Fred Johnson and Tim Lawley states that the new route will “ provide access to some of the most beautiful parts of the moraine”.
The trail will now be situated largely away from travelled roads.
Mr. Johnson noted that the trail now passes three wineries, adding it does not yet pass a brewery or Tim Horton’s.
Most trails set up by the association are looped or end-to-end sections that can be travelled in less than a day.
After finding that the Warkworth to Castleton leg takes almost a day to walk, Councillor Ed Van Egmond asked about the possibility of camping along the trail, as they do along the Bruce Trail in central Ontario.
Mr. Johnson replied that most people walk sections and not end-to-end.
After hearing the councillor's suggestion that people may take tents and camp in fields, Mr. Lawley replied it will not be condoned.
The path had already been set by the moraine advocates, and approved by Cramahe Council. The group was at council to seek approval for the changes.
After hearing from residents, the Oak Ridges Trail Association and the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation have settled on a new interim course and a proposed long-term preferred tail. The new routes will traverse open and unopened road allowances instead of roadways.
Fred Johnson commented in his verbal report that the moraine group had received a "strong message" from landowners who didn't like the Jakobi stretch of the trail
A section that was proposed for Jakobi Rd. will be moved to Dawson Rd, which Mr. Johnson says is a "wonderful path". New parking will be available at the Castleton Playing Fields, the Warkworth Fairgrounds and the Oak Heights Winery. Walkers will travel from Pine St. in Castleton up Mount Pleasant Rd and on to Dawson and from there on to an unopened road allowance to Russ Creek and the red Cloud School Rd. Fron there it will proceed to Warkworth, ending at the Fairgrounds.
The new route will allow the trail to have two eastern gateways.
The background paper provided by Fred Johnson and Tim Lawley states that the new route will “ provide access to some of the most beautiful parts of the moraine”.
The trail will now be situated largely away from travelled roads.
Mr. Johnson noted that the trail now passes three wineries, adding it does not yet pass a brewery or Tim Horton’s.
Most trails set up by the association are looped or end-to-end sections that can be travelled in less than a day.
After finding that the Warkworth to Castleton leg takes almost a day to walk, Councillor Ed Van Egmond asked about the possibility of camping along the trail, as they do along the Bruce Trail in central Ontario.
Mr. Johnson replied that most people walk sections and not end-to-end.
After hearing the councillor's suggestion that people may take tents and camp in fields, Mr. Lawley replied it will not be condoned.
The path had already been set by the moraine advocates, and approved by Cramahe Council. The group was at council to seek approval for the changes.
Wednesday, 12 August 2009
Victoria Street bridge work will begin soon
The $105,582 rehabilitation of the Victoria Street bridge in Colborne will be done by Baltimore Developments & Services Ltd. of Cobourg.
Cramahe Council looked at five bids submitted, choosing the lowest. The highest was by Bob Hendrickson at just over $150,000. The closest bid to Baltimore’s was the Carlington Construction quote of $120,608.
When the engineering services costs of D. M. Wills are added the project will total $114,080. D. M. Wills reviewed the Baltimore submission and noted that the company is well managed. Wills and Baltimore have worked together on other projects.
Cramahe Council looked at five bids submitted, choosing the lowest. The highest was by Bob Hendrickson at just over $150,000. The closest bid to Baltimore’s was the Carlington Construction quote of $120,608.
When the engineering services costs of D. M. Wills are added the project will total $114,080. D. M. Wills reviewed the Baltimore submission and noted that the company is well managed. Wills and Baltimore have worked together on other projects.
Castleton library renovations begin
The long-awaited renovations to the lower area of the Castleton Town Hall will begin on August 13 and be done within 60 days.
Cramahe Council approved the bid of $39,310 made by Fisher Construction at its August 11 meeting. Fisher was the contractor who oversaw the work done upstairs in the building.
The work will include removal of all non-supporting walls, and carpet. Sub-floor in the meeting room will also go. New handrails will be installed on the stairs and the floor will be tiled. The Heritage Room will have new French doors. Existing lighting will be replaced by energy-efficient fixtures. Cables will be installed to allow high-speed internet service and the entire lower level will be re-painted with the exception of some historic markings.
Mayor Marc Coombs says that, once the renovations are done in October the Library Board will supervise the re-creation of the library.
The lower level housed the little-used Castleton Branch of the Cramahe Library but was closed when the building was undergoing extensive renovations last year. Fearing closure of the branch, area residents met with the Cramahe Library Board and developed ideas they felt would make the facility more welcoming and better-used.
There was one other compliant bidder on the job. Facility Services bid was $40,650. There was $39,332 remaining in the capital account for the building.
Cramahe Council approved the bid of $39,310 made by Fisher Construction at its August 11 meeting. Fisher was the contractor who oversaw the work done upstairs in the building.
The work will include removal of all non-supporting walls, and carpet. Sub-floor in the meeting room will also go. New handrails will be installed on the stairs and the floor will be tiled. The Heritage Room will have new French doors. Existing lighting will be replaced by energy-efficient fixtures. Cables will be installed to allow high-speed internet service and the entire lower level will be re-painted with the exception of some historic markings.
Mayor Marc Coombs says that, once the renovations are done in October the Library Board will supervise the re-creation of the library.
The lower level housed the little-used Castleton Branch of the Cramahe Library but was closed when the building was undergoing extensive renovations last year. Fearing closure of the branch, area residents met with the Cramahe Library Board and developed ideas they felt would make the facility more welcoming and better-used.
There was one other compliant bidder on the job. Facility Services bid was $40,650. There was $39,332 remaining in the capital account for the building.
Council puts off sculpture decision
Cramahe Council will not be following the recommendation of its Community Development Officer, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria, regarding a new sculpture in the village of Colborne - at least not for now.
Ms. Goddard-Sarria supported a proposal from the Colborne Art Gallery to place a 10-foot-tall yellow sculpture in front of the gallery on King St. E. The sculpture, by artist Claus Heinecke, is part of the gallery's plan to draw people into the former Regisrty Office.
Mr. Heinecke explained to council that the sculpture was part of a gallery
initiative to increase its profile and create something that didn’t “fade into the textural background”.
The gallery has applied for $10,000 funding from the Northumberland CFDC Local Initiatives Program to finance the installation of the entwined columns. The work is being donated by Mr. Heinecke.
In her written report to Council the Community Development Officer stated that Works Director Barry Thrasher had no problems with sight lines from Victory Lane. Chief Guilding Official Natalie Moroz-Cornell could identify no issues with the proposal to place the art on the boulevard in front of the gallery.
An August 4 letter from the gallery membership states "For the gallery it will be an attention-getting image, while the town will gain a piece of street art to enhance the look of its main street."
While the report from Ms. Goddard-Sarria supported the installation, it was unclear whether council did. The question had councillors walking a tightrope, not wanting to offend the artist or the members of Heritage Cramahe.
Councillors were quick to compliment the talents of the artist, but equally eager to give credence to any possible concerns of neighbours and the Heritage Cramahe Committee.
Councillor Pat Westrope was the first to enter the discussion, asking if the neighbours had been consulted.
Ms. Goddard-Sarria admitted she was not aware of they they had.
Councillor Ed Van Egmond questioned whether Heritage Cramahe had been consulted about the proposed addition to the front of the designated building.
Ms. Goddard-Sarria was not aware of that either.
Councillor Van Egmond praised the work of the artist and said it would be an honour to have his work somewhere in the village. He doesn't believe the front of the gallery is the place.
Mr. Heinecke explained that the gallery members wanted to attract visitors but not with a bold blaring sign. The proposed work will not please everyone, he agreed, but it is not offensive;it's decorative.
Couoncillor Westrope wanted it known that she was not against art, but more concerned about being a good neighbour.
The artist said that Heritage Cramahe was aware of the proposal and he didn't think the group was opposed.
That assertion was called into question by Roseanne Quinn, a member of Heritage Cramahe and curator of the heritage room housed in the building. Ms. Quinn stated this was her first knowledge of the project. She added that Heritage Cramahe Chair, Lenna Broatch, who was sitting next to her, had heard nothing before.
Mayor Marc Coombs told the artists that he thought the idea of a sculpture was wonderful and thanked them for seeking the funding to pay for the project. He suggested they should consult Heritage Cramahe and the neighbours.
Later, in the public question period resident, Eileen Milley suggested there should
be an avenue for public input. She was certain there would be some in the community who would feel the proposed sculpture did not match the look of the community.
Cramahe resident Andrew Keogh proposed that the artists provide other sketches and options. He wondered if passersby might be distracted by the work and become involved in traffic accidents.
The artists were asked to go to the heritage group and the neighbours for consultation. Council deferred any decision until that is done.
When does T 'n'T end?
Cramahe Now reader, Roseanne Quinn has been a vendor at Trash 'n' Treasures for a number of years. This year she ran into a problem and wonders what others in the community think.
We have posted her letter to the blog below, and under it, comments made by Cramahe Township Community Development Officer, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria, and Mayor Marc Coombs at Cramahe Council on August 11.
Be sure to check back regularly to read the responses. We will post your comments separately below the story - the first one has already arrived!
Ms. Quinn writes:
At 2 p.m. on the dot Saturday, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria walked around Victoria Square
informing all of us who had rented tables that it was time to pack up and get out.
"Why?" I asked.
She responded that she needed the tables back.
I asked when Trash and Treasures had started being closed down at 2 p.m.
She replied "As of this year."
Again I asked why, since it always ran until 4 p.m.
She informed me that she had been doing it for four years and she had decided to close it at 2 p.m. this year.
I informed her that I had been "doing it" since 1997 and it was always on until 4 p.m.
She said that if I didn't like it, I shouldn't rent tables from her next time.
I told her she had turned the event into a bureaucracy (which of course would happen when you hand over a community-based event to a bureaucrat). So, of course, as soon as those of us who had rented tables packed up and left, the other vendors who had their own tables had no customers, nor did all the other people in Colborne who had set up in front of their houses.
I don't understand why she would decide to close a public-centred event or why she would be given the authority to do it. Trash and Treasures started as a day for all of Cramahe and Colborne to hold yard sales in order to become a large attraction - which it used to be.
It also used to be for charitable organizations and ordinary citizens to raise
money in a central location or be on a map which was handed out to visitors. It seems a lot of the vendors in Victoria Square are now professional business people who have retail-type set-ups.
One year I set up to raise money for the Colborne Heritage site. Right beside me a woman arrived with a trailer full of stock from the William Ashley store in Toronto where she worked . She sold all day- I barely made $200 for the Heritage Room.
Getting back to the point - the event has been turned into a tightly organized event that should have been left alone. In fact, if I had packed up to leave at 2 p.m. I would have missed the $100 sale I had at 2:30.
Does anyone else have an opinion on this?
Roseanne Quinn
Ms Goddard-Sarria was asked during press question period on August 11 for her response to the concern about an early closing time.
She stated that she had had one vendor concerned at 2:20 p.m. on Saturday. Ms. Goddard-Sarria had advertised the event to run from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is the second year she has set those times.
She admitted it had been 4 p.m. previously but it now started earlier and ended earlier. She said the person who complained had been told before of the 2 p.m. end time.
Mayor Marc Coombs agreed with Ms. Goddard-Sarria regarding the earlier end time. He said it is a staff issue with Community Services Director Dan O'Brien and cost of staffing.
Ms. Goddard-Sarria added that it must have been a good year and people who wanted to stay later could bring their own tables.
What do you think?
Was this year's Trash 'n' Treasures a success?
Were the crowds big and spending?
Should the township collect its tables at 2 p.m.?
Write to us at
lowen@xplornet.com and tell us what you think. If you wish, we can post your comments anonymously but we require that you provide us with your name.
We have posted her letter to the blog below, and under it, comments made by Cramahe Township Community Development Officer, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria, and Mayor Marc Coombs at Cramahe Council on August 11.
Be sure to check back regularly to read the responses. We will post your comments separately below the story - the first one has already arrived!
Ms. Quinn writes:
At 2 p.m. on the dot Saturday, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria walked around Victoria Square
informing all of us who had rented tables that it was time to pack up and get out.
"Why?" I asked.
She responded that she needed the tables back.
I asked when Trash and Treasures had started being closed down at 2 p.m.
She replied "As of this year."
Again I asked why, since it always ran until 4 p.m.
She informed me that she had been doing it for four years and she had decided to close it at 2 p.m. this year.
I informed her that I had been "doing it" since 1997 and it was always on until 4 p.m.
She said that if I didn't like it, I shouldn't rent tables from her next time.
I told her she had turned the event into a bureaucracy (which of course would happen when you hand over a community-based event to a bureaucrat). So, of course, as soon as those of us who had rented tables packed up and left, the other vendors who had their own tables had no customers, nor did all the other people in Colborne who had set up in front of their houses.
I don't understand why she would decide to close a public-centred event or why she would be given the authority to do it. Trash and Treasures started as a day for all of Cramahe and Colborne to hold yard sales in order to become a large attraction - which it used to be.
It also used to be for charitable organizations and ordinary citizens to raise
money in a central location or be on a map which was handed out to visitors. It seems a lot of the vendors in Victoria Square are now professional business people who have retail-type set-ups.
One year I set up to raise money for the Colborne Heritage site. Right beside me a woman arrived with a trailer full of stock from the William Ashley store in Toronto where she worked . She sold all day- I barely made $200 for the Heritage Room.
Getting back to the point - the event has been turned into a tightly organized event that should have been left alone. In fact, if I had packed up to leave at 2 p.m. I would have missed the $100 sale I had at 2:30.
Does anyone else have an opinion on this?
Roseanne Quinn
Ms Goddard-Sarria was asked during press question period on August 11 for her response to the concern about an early closing time.
She stated that she had had one vendor concerned at 2:20 p.m. on Saturday. Ms. Goddard-Sarria had advertised the event to run from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is the second year she has set those times.
She admitted it had been 4 p.m. previously but it now started earlier and ended earlier. She said the person who complained had been told before of the 2 p.m. end time.
Mayor Marc Coombs agreed with Ms. Goddard-Sarria regarding the earlier end time. He said it is a staff issue with Community Services Director Dan O'Brien and cost of staffing.
Ms. Goddard-Sarria added that it must have been a good year and people who wanted to stay later could bring their own tables.
What do you think?
Was this year's Trash 'n' Treasures a success?
Were the crowds big and spending?
Should the township collect its tables at 2 p.m.?
Write to us at
lowen@xplornet.com and tell us what you think. If you wish, we can post your comments anonymously but we require that you provide us with your name.
Reader dismay
Hurray for Roseanne!
Remember Trash and Treasures?? It was the huge event held in Colborne the second weekend in August? I remember because I have always participated both as a vendor and as a "looker" and sometimes a buyer.
Remember that by the end of June, and early July the public of the township were reminded to dig out all of that really good stuff you can't part with and set up a yard sale? Remember that we could buy yellow balloons to mark our spots, and remember that we could rent tables in the park for the whole day if we wanted and the money went to figure skating or hockey or some other organization that needed a financial boost. Remember the excitement and fun and anticipation? Remember how everyone invited family members to come home and join in? Remember when you were up before dawn and you had people lining up to look into the boxes before it was light enough to see? Remember when you couldn't drive in Colborne for the traffic jams so people went on foot. Remember when Trash and Treasure was billed as the biggest yardsale in the country?
Now, sadly, that we have a high price tourism organizer we have been downsized to a yardsale in the park from 6 to 2. Too bad it doesn't cost $150,000. to run T 'n T. Maybe we would get more input and dedication from our high priced tourism organizer.
Would you drive 100 miles to a yard sale in the park? No! Would you drive !00 miles to an event that lasted only a few hours? No! I set up a yard sale again this year. I was up before dawn and the only people I saw was a lonely reporter driving around looking for someone to talk to, alas there was no one except me and and a few other hopeful vendors. Eventually by around 7:30 or 8:00 some people did come but far, far from the old crowds. How disappointing. How sad.
Some ideas for our high-priced tourism organizer. Rebuild T 'n T now before it dies. Bring back the ballons. Realize you can't organize a yard sale too much. They last all day or until the vendor is tired. Some will leave early some will hang on 'til dark. Don't try to give hourly times, just name the day. Please don't downsize it to fit into the park, include everyone. Advertise! There is a ton of advertising out there that is free. What about kiji? What about Cramahe Now? Get going on this before it is too late, once it is gone you can't bring it back. This is a wonderful tourist draw for Colborne and it doesn't have a huge cost and really not much work for the municipal staff.
Give us back Trash and Treasures.
B
Remember Trash and Treasures?? It was the huge event held in Colborne the second weekend in August? I remember because I have always participated both as a vendor and as a "looker" and sometimes a buyer.
Remember that by the end of June, and early July the public of the township were reminded to dig out all of that really good stuff you can't part with and set up a yard sale? Remember that we could buy yellow balloons to mark our spots, and remember that we could rent tables in the park for the whole day if we wanted and the money went to figure skating or hockey or some other organization that needed a financial boost. Remember the excitement and fun and anticipation? Remember how everyone invited family members to come home and join in? Remember when you were up before dawn and you had people lining up to look into the boxes before it was light enough to see? Remember when you couldn't drive in Colborne for the traffic jams so people went on foot. Remember when Trash and Treasure was billed as the biggest yardsale in the country?
Now, sadly, that we have a high price tourism organizer we have been downsized to a yardsale in the park from 6 to 2. Too bad it doesn't cost $150,000. to run T 'n T. Maybe we would get more input and dedication from our high priced tourism organizer.
Would you drive 100 miles to a yard sale in the park? No! Would you drive !00 miles to an event that lasted only a few hours? No! I set up a yard sale again this year. I was up before dawn and the only people I saw was a lonely reporter driving around looking for someone to talk to, alas there was no one except me and and a few other hopeful vendors. Eventually by around 7:30 or 8:00 some people did come but far, far from the old crowds. How disappointing. How sad.
Some ideas for our high-priced tourism organizer. Rebuild T 'n T now before it dies. Bring back the ballons. Realize you can't organize a yard sale too much. They last all day or until the vendor is tired. Some will leave early some will hang on 'til dark. Don't try to give hourly times, just name the day. Please don't downsize it to fit into the park, include everyone. Advertise! There is a ton of advertising out there that is free. What about kiji? What about Cramahe Now? Get going on this before it is too late, once it is gone you can't bring it back. This is a wonderful tourist draw for Colborne and it doesn't have a huge cost and really not much work for the municipal staff.
Give us back Trash and Treasures.
B
Who needs the help?
I read the coments re the T&T .They were wonderful; I really do wonder
sometimes why we need some of our high priced help. If they were in private
enterprise they would all starve.
Norm
sometimes why we need some of our high priced help. If they were in private
enterprise they would all starve.
Norm
Cramahe to look at dog control solutions
The old bugaboo of animal control was back on the table at Cramahe Council on August 11.
The township’s contracts with Shelter of Hope and animal collector, Richard Lamoureux expire at the end of the year and township By-law officer, Jim Harris, was looking for direction. The current two-year deal with the animal collector is costing the township $10,000 a year, but does not fill all the township needs.
Deputy Mayor Jim Williams would like to see the contractor collect strays that are running loose. Currently he comes to collect the dog only if it has been caught. As far as Deputy Mayor Williams is concerned the township is paying something for a service which does not enforce the municipal bylaws.
Councillor Ed Van Egmond says that's because Mr. Lamoureux lives so far to the east of Cramahe that he'd never get here in time to catch the dog."He gets the ones I babysit," joked the councillor.
The contract with the Shelter of Hope is for housing the animals once they have been picked up by Mr.Lamoureux.
The Shelter of Hope is not interested in taking on the entire contract, which left Mr. Harris with one other option to present in his written report.
The township could band with the Municipality of Brighton on the east and Trent Hills on the north and create its own shelter. Mr. Harris admitted this option would be more expensive than the current one.
Councillor Van Egmond says he's been talking to people in the community to see if another option is feasible. The problem, as he sees it, is that animal welfare is closely governed, much like abatoirs. It's difficult for anyone to make money. He thinks the best alternative now is to stay with what we have.
Council decided to have Mr. Harris look into the options and report back at the September 15 meeting.
A county-wide operation is not in the cards now, according to Mayor Marc Coombs.
The township’s contracts with Shelter of Hope and animal collector, Richard Lamoureux expire at the end of the year and township By-law officer, Jim Harris, was looking for direction. The current two-year deal with the animal collector is costing the township $10,000 a year, but does not fill all the township needs.
Deputy Mayor Jim Williams would like to see the contractor collect strays that are running loose. Currently he comes to collect the dog only if it has been caught. As far as Deputy Mayor Williams is concerned the township is paying something for a service which does not enforce the municipal bylaws.
Councillor Ed Van Egmond says that's because Mr. Lamoureux lives so far to the east of Cramahe that he'd never get here in time to catch the dog."He gets the ones I babysit," joked the councillor.
The contract with the Shelter of Hope is for housing the animals once they have been picked up by Mr.Lamoureux.
The Shelter of Hope is not interested in taking on the entire contract, which left Mr. Harris with one other option to present in his written report.
The township could band with the Municipality of Brighton on the east and Trent Hills on the north and create its own shelter. Mr. Harris admitted this option would be more expensive than the current one.
Councillor Van Egmond says he's been talking to people in the community to see if another option is feasible. The problem, as he sees it, is that animal welfare is closely governed, much like abatoirs. It's difficult for anyone to make money. He thinks the best alternative now is to stay with what we have.
Council decided to have Mr. Harris look into the options and report back at the September 15 meeting.
A county-wide operation is not in the cards now, according to Mayor Marc Coombs.
It's time for a Colborne clock
A project that began as a dream of Lakeport resident, Clare Musselman will soon be a reality.
Mr. Musselman passed on the idea of erecting a commemorative clock to Eileen Milley. Mrs. Milley was a member of the Colborne 150th Celebration Committee.
The ball was passed from her to committee member Janice McKnight, who collected all the details about the idea.
And then the $15,000 idea was rejected by the 150th Committee due to costs.
But the project didn't die there.
Committee Chair and Cramahe Councillor, Pat Westrope, approached the staff at Holcim (Canada) Inc. (formerly St. Lawrence Cement) regarding a contribution to the August 1parade. That wasn't possible, but the company did have money available.
There was enough in the committee kitty for the actual event, so Mrs. Westrope put forward the clock idea.
Holcim staffer, Dr. Jim Johnston made the presentation to Cramahe Township Council at its August 11 meeting on behalf of the company and its employees.
The clock, which will sit on King Street in the former village, will commemorate the 150th anniversary of the former Village of Colborne, and the 50th anniversary of the Ogden Quarry operated by Holcim. The quarry is located on Lake Ontario in Cramahe Township.
In his presentation to council, Dr. Johnston thanked the community for allowing the company to join in the 150th celebration.
The company will pay the entire cost of the clock, including shipping and installation. Normally the company hosts an open house at its quarry but this year it plans to coordinate a community event in the fall with the township to mark the installation and celebrate the joint anniversaries.
The announcement by Dr. Johnston was marked with a round of applause from the gallery and council. Mr Musselman and Mrs. Milley were both in attendance.
Mr. Musselman passed on the idea of erecting a commemorative clock to Eileen Milley. Mrs. Milley was a member of the Colborne 150th Celebration Committee.
The ball was passed from her to committee member Janice McKnight, who collected all the details about the idea.
And then the $15,000 idea was rejected by the 150th Committee due to costs.
But the project didn't die there.
Committee Chair and Cramahe Councillor, Pat Westrope, approached the staff at Holcim (Canada) Inc. (formerly St. Lawrence Cement) regarding a contribution to the August 1parade. That wasn't possible, but the company did have money available.
There was enough in the committee kitty for the actual event, so Mrs. Westrope put forward the clock idea.
Holcim staffer, Dr. Jim Johnston made the presentation to Cramahe Township Council at its August 11 meeting on behalf of the company and its employees.
The clock, which will sit on King Street in the former village, will commemorate the 150th anniversary of the former Village of Colborne, and the 50th anniversary of the Ogden Quarry operated by Holcim. The quarry is located on Lake Ontario in Cramahe Township.
In his presentation to council, Dr. Johnston thanked the community for allowing the company to join in the 150th celebration.
The company will pay the entire cost of the clock, including shipping and installation. Normally the company hosts an open house at its quarry but this year it plans to coordinate a community event in the fall with the township to mark the installation and celebrate the joint anniversaries.
The announcement by Dr. Johnston was marked with a round of applause from the gallery and council. Mr Musselman and Mrs. Milley were both in attendance.