Salem Sampler February, 2010

A SALEM SAMPLER…..REVISITED

A gala celebration of Mary Bellamy’s 85th. birthday was held in the Salem church hall after services on Sunday, January 10th.with a delightful luncheon, complete with birthday cake and balloons, hosted and presented by her family - to which the Salem folk were invited. It was a surprise! And it really was.

We extend the very best wishes of good wishes to Mary; who has been such an integral and valued part of the Community for many years.

Best wishes are extended, too, to Elsie Cullum on her early January birthday from the Salem folk

Kendra Peters’ birthday of January 6th should have been fitted in the previous column with the Epiphany and the visit of the Magi .. Well, she is a gift.

All best wishes, Kendra.

And our best wishes, too, to Jim Peters for his February 6th birthday.

The Rev.Anja Guignon presided at the installation of the Salem U.C.W. executive for the coming year. The new executive: Past President, Marjorie Bailey; incoming president, Lenna Broach; Vice President, Gwen Bellamy; Secretary, Laura Haferkorn: Treasurer, Muriel Todd; Devotions and Social Committee, Doris Simpson; Social Convener and Sunshine, Ruth McKenzie; Reviewer, Cathy Galt.

Where would we be without our U.C.W?

Congratulations to Laura Haferkorn who won first prize for her essay submitted to the contest sponsored by the Federal Women’s Institute of Canada.

So sorry to hear that Gwen Bellamy suffered a fractured rib after an unfortunate fall at home . We’re thinking of you, Gwen; we knew it had to be something serious for you to miss miss church on the 17th.

On Monday, February 8th. Catherine Wilson will introduce her new book, ‘Tenants in Time”, a study of Cramahe Township's earliest settlers, at 7:00 pm in the Castleton Town Hall. There is a $5:00 charge which will be donated to the Northumberland United Way. There will be refreshments to follow the event hosted by Heritage Cramahe.

Sounds fascinating! Where are your roots?.

The Colborne half of the Colborne Probus Pool Team, featuring Alan Cullum and Doug Galt, triumphed mightily, so I heard, over the second half of the team of Bill Doherty of Shiloh and Clare Mussellman, of Lakeport, at the Games of January 12th.; but who’s gloating…

Bill and Mary Jane hosted a luncheon at their farm in Shiloh for the squad and their wives that same afternoon. We didn’t get to meet Norma personally; she was in the barn and the snow was too deep for our short boots.

“GODLY PLAY” re-commences at the Colborne United Church on Tuesday evening, February 2, from 6;30 PM. till 7:30 pm. and will continue until Easter.

All children are welcome.

The yearly reports are all in, or nearly so, and it's once again time for the annual Congregational Meetings for all three churches in the charge. The dates are as follows:

Colborne: Sunday, Feb. 7 at 1:00pm Snow date: Thursday, Feb.11, 7:00pm

Eden: Sunday, Feb.14 at 7:00pm Snow date: Thursday, Feb.18, 7:00pm

Salem: Sunday, Feb. 21 at 1:00pm Snow date: Thursday, Feb.25,7:00pm

Joint congregational meeting at Salem on Sunday, Feb.28 at 1:00pm.

Snow date: Thursday March 4 at 7:00pm.


It may be only January but the Bazaar Committee at Salem is already at work planning this year’s event. Yes, it’s a year in the planning. The Committee is requesting that, should you have any unused articles you may have received as gifts which are either unsuited to your tastes or requirements, that you might consider passing them along to the Committee. Things like soaps and lotions or books or things of that nature would go to good homes and would serve a good cause.

And, just so you know, I retired from the Column after 17 years of weekly reports. I did so with regret, but felt it was time for something different.

Now we are without a newspaper of our own, so, thanks to the generosity and skill of Bob Owen we will attempt to re-establish communications within the Community.. We’ll see how it works.


Nancy.

Cramahe okays new pumper

Cramahe Township Fire Department will soon have its new pumper.

Cramahe Township Council approved the purchase of the $236,900 vehicle at a special meeting on January 28 after extensive research was done by a Fire Department selection committee. The price included $6,900 of options designed to make the truck safer and more efficient.

A week earlier on January 19, council refused to accept the recommendation of its interim Fire Chief, Jim Harris. The Chief wanted permission to purchase the truck from a single source without taking it to tender.

In the end the result was much the same, but the firefighters got a truck which met their specifications, and the decision passes public scrutiny.

Township staff met with the firemen after the January 19. A committtee of three firemen was formed to locate possible suppliers and to detemine exactly what was needed. Chief Harris commended John Jakab, Gary Cammack, Larry Dadson and Ken Awender for their efforts in getting the best possible vehicle at the best possible price.

Through extensive research they located seven possible suppliers and asked each to provide quotes on stock vehicles. Some did not have stock, others had stock which failed to meet the township needs. Dependable Trucks, located in Brampton, had three.

Chief Harris had stated from the beginning, that time was of the essence if the municipality was to get one of the last remaining 2009 trucks. He met for three hours with members of the committee on January 23 to create a prioritized list of availablle vehicles. Their first choice was the one selected by council, even though it cost $5,000 more than the second choice.

The truck will be paid for through $210,000 now in the fire department reserves. The balance will come from the 2010 budget.

The preferred 2009 model pumper is a heavier vehicle, designed to carry 1,000 gallons of water, rather than 750 gallons. It also has an enclosed area to store the ladders and equipment and a better hose setup. In the $231,500 model the equipment is inaccessible when the ladders are gotten down. The third choice was a custom ordered truck at a cost of about $280,000 and with a delivery time of 8-10 months.

The committtee was able to negotiate favourable prices for an additional foam system, extra shelving and an extra divider for the hoses. They got the axes and wrench sets mounted on the truck and a heat pan installed under the pump so it doesn't freeze. A traffic advisor will be mounted on the back of the truck. A metal piece will be installed on the back of the cab to protect the operator, and safe running boards will be installed before the truck arrives in 4-6 weeks from Seattle.

Councillor Pat Westrope wondered what will happen to the 26-year-old pumper which is being phased out.

Chief Harris and Works Director Barry Thrasher are to meet with a person who will give them an estimate on the cost to convert it for use by the Works Department. It cannot be used as a fire truck because of its age, but has very low mileage - only 34,000 km. It's sale value is considered minimal.

There will need to be some adjusting done at the fire hall as the firemen juggle their equipment so that the new truck is housed indoors. When it arrives the firefighter will receive training from the supplier.

Curling Charity Spiel aids unwed mothers

Each year the Colborne Curling Club hosts a charity spiel. This year's event raised money to support Alpha House, the residence for pregnant teens and teens with newborns.
On January 16 they raised $2459 as 16 teams battled their way through curling, shuffleboard, mini putting and euchre. Five club teams competed against two Rotary teams, the Optimists, M and M's, the Bank of Montreal, Grafton Public School, two foursomes from Alpha House, Computer Solutions and Cramahe Township.

Scott Arnold, Bonnie Young, Scott Arnold, Kevin and Wanda Lansley were the winners of the fun day of events. John McKnight (left) presents golf passes to the winning foursome. .

Find out more about the Colborne Curling club at Colborne Curling Club Home Page

A tribute to the fallen

They are brothers and sisters, sons and daughters - sometimes mothers and fathers. The passing of the fallen Afghanistan veterans is a moving experience for those who stand on the bridges.

Kim and Wendy Carr have been among the bridge people, and they wanted to do more. Last September they decided to create a Highway of Heroes Quilt. For the past four months the mother and daughter team have sewn a single poppy square for every soldier who has died in the conflict since 2002. Wendy sewed each of the many poppies. Kim added the names of each soldier in script. The poppy squares were sewn together to create a powerful reminder of the cost of war.

Wendy thought they had completed the quilt in December but five more soldiers died late in the month and the quilt was re-worked with new squares added. Fortunately they had enough material. They ran out of the red at one point but Kim found some more in the U.S. through an internet search. The women estimate it took 100 hours to complete the massive project. The quilt records the soldiers who died between 2002 and 2009.

There were few dry eyes in the Salem Church hall when Rev. Anja Guignon delivered the blessing which reflected on loss and hope.

The quilt will soon find a permanent home in the Warkworth Legion. Joyce Nickerson, 1st Vice in the Warkworth Branch says the Legion will have the quilt recorded as a historic artifact, one that will be looked upon in 100 years. There will be a dedication service when it will be placed on a memorial wall.

Purdy Rd. - a holy mess!

The trip across Purdy Rd. in since it was paved late last fall has turned into an obstacle course as drivers dodge the growing number of potholes and chunks of broken pavement.

Cramahe Now checked into the situation with Works Director, Barry Thrasher, and received the following information:

"The cause of the pavement failure is being investigated by Geo-Logic Inc, a company which specializes in the analysis of soils and pavements. They took 7 samples of the asphalt and underlying gravel and are currently studying these samples to determine if one, or both does not meet specification and led to the breakup of the pavement. We haven't received their report yet.

The township has a signed agreement for a fixed price for this contract, and the contractor is responsible for supplying material which meets specification. If the pavement and gravel that was put down has to be replaced, then it will be done at his expense. The unexpected cost of hiring Geo-Logic is something Council will have to decide on later as far as recovering that cost goes.

Asphalt plants don't resume operation again until Spring so on-going maintenance of this section of road will be required till then. A meeting has been held with the contractor and he has agreed to place cold-patch in the potholes through the rest of the winter."

So - keep your eyes open for now...

New school update

Our thanks again to Lisa Meekes for keeping us up-to-date with the progress of the growing Northumberland Hills Public School, scheduled to open this September. These photos were taken on January 21.

Principals making a difference in Tanzania

Colborne resident and secondary school principal, Jeff Kawzenuk is on his annual trip to Tanzania to assist in community projects. We have enclosed his first "note home" and a reference to the blog he and fellow principal, Steve Truelove are keeping.

Hello All,

Things are going very well in Tanzania.
Working very hard. Lots of meetings - (more than KPR!)
We are beginning to see a difference to this comunity, in part and thanks to the students of KPR.

Please check out our blog...

Welcome to Tanzania

Many thanks,
Talk soon,

Jeff and Steve

ed note - Blog did not appear to be functioning on January 28.

Avon calling???

While visiting the township offices recently one of our readers thought she observed an Avon lady doing business behind the counter during office hours. So we checked...

Treasurer, Mora Chatterson, is filling in for Cramahe Chief Administrative Officer, Christie Alexander while she is on vacation.

Ms. Chatterson responded, "There are a few employees within this office that this Avon representative, deals with. She usually is just dropping off books (and/or previously ordered products), for these employees to review on their own time at home, rather that have to drive out of town to their homes. She usually tries to come in to the office around their coffee or lunch breaks."

So, there you have it.

Castleton gains from Colborne 150th

It was Castleton's turn to benefit from the celebration of Colborne's 150th, held last summer.
Standing in the bitter cold on the steps of the gazebo in Victoria Square, Northumberland-Quinte West MP, Rick Norlock announced a federal Heritage Funding grant of $17,100. The grant will be used to improve the ventilation in the Castleton Town Hall where valued books and artifacts have suffered from problems related to dampness.

"I am proud to be part of a government that values the preservation of this knowledge," stated the MP.

Colborne 150th Chair, and Cramahe councillor, Pat Westrope commented, "I am delighted to receive these funds. Preservation of pictures and artifacts of a historical nature is important to the present and future community of Cramahe Township."

The money, most of which will arrive in the near future, will pay for exterior filtration, window treatments, and archival cabinetry and storage units for historical material being stored and displayed there.

401 update

The following statement was issued by the OPP at 1:25 p.m. today:

The Northumberland OPP advises that Highway 401 is now open to traffic. The driver of the Tractor Trailer sustained minor injuries.


Motorists are advised to slow down and take extra time as roads are very slippery.

 
 

401 westbound closed

Noon

The OPP is advising motorists to take an alternate route following a collision on the westbound lanes of the 401, west of County Rd. 25 in Cramahe Township.

The Northumberland OPP is currently at the scene of a motor vehicle collision involving a tractor trailer on Highway 401 westbound lanes west of County Road 25 in Cramahe Township. The highway is completely closed.

Motorists travelling westbound on Highway 401 are advised to go north on County Road 25, west on County Road 22 and south on County road 45 to Highway 401.

Motorists are advised to slow down due to slippery road conditions and keep a safe distance with the vehicle in front of them.

Cramahe Now reader wonders about office reno

                                    Township receptionist/ tax clerk Tracey Deveaux
                                    stands in the newly renovated reception area last
                                    October.

Cramahe Now reader Lorraine Chapman-Arthur has some concerns about the $34 thousand renovation done to the Cramahe Township office reception area last fall.

She makes her point below:

"I am really concerned about the priorities in the Cramahe Township office. Is anyone overseeing the daily activities? Why did the township hire someone who had to drive all the way from Kingston to renovate the offices when there are local contractors available? A basic contract like this should go to someone local.

Was it contracted or tendered? If someone local did the work, the township would see a return when property taxes were paid by the contractor.

This is very frustrating."

We asked Cramahe Township Chief Administrative Officer, Christie Alexander, "Who did the renovations/painting in the office last fall, where the company was from, how much it cost, and the process used to determine the contractor(s)?"

She forwarded the Chief Building Official's report passed by Cramahe Township Council on August 11, 2009.

Natalie Moroz-Cornell states in her report: Tenders closed July 30, 2009 to refurbish the Municipal Office reception area including the supply and installation of an accessible customer service counter.

Two compliant bids were received as follows.

K. Knudsen Construction Limited $36,155. plus GST

Rockwood Design $34,650. plus GST

This contract is for a general contractor to supply all equipment and supplies to dismantle, and remove the existing office reception counter and two work stations in the reception area.

The contractor is to build/supply a new counter with wheelchair access as per design provided. New work stations are to be installed as part of this counter space as per the furniture specifications.

An office separation is to be installed in the hallway area. The scope of work also includes replacing the existing carpet flooring in all offices and hall way with new carpet tiles, and painting the main office area.

The contract was paid with $25,000 from the Colborne Town Hall capital budget account, and $12,000 for new carpet under building maintenance.

Pumper decision to be made Thursday

A special meeting of Cramahe Council will be held Thursday, January 28, 2010 at 9:00 a.m. in the council chambers, 1 Toronto Street, Colborne.

The purpose of the Meeting is to consider a proposed acquisition of a Pumper Truck for the Fire Department.

Ham dinner/concert draws a good crowd

It may have been cold outside but the atmosphere inside Colborne United Church on January 23 for the ham dinner and concert was warm and tasty.

Filling those plates is serious business!

The waters rise in Colborne

It's been awhile since the waters have run this high. Our thanks to Dave Perry for these photos taken in Memorial Park and on Elgin St. S. in Colborne.

Winter rains combined with runoff over frozen ground to fill waterways quickly.

At one point the water was running over the walking path and across Elgin St. S.

It was definitely a water spaniel day!

Olympic Torch Committee thanked

Cramahe Mayor, Marc Coombs, left, and Cramahe Tourism Coordinator, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria, right, presented gift baskets to the members of the local Olympic Torch Run Committee - Elizabeth and Harold Kuschnik, their daughter Rachel Kuschnik, Maureen Young and Crystal Beaudry. The presentation was made at the January 19 meeting of Cramahe Township Council.

Cramahe year-end building report

The year 2009 was another good year for building in Cramahe - if you built very large buildings.

Thanks to the construction start of the new $6,732,000 Northumberland Hills Public School and the opening of Tim Horton's, the building total for the year swelled to $12,547,420. It's not a record, falling behind last year's $13 million total into second place. In 2005, the only other year to see eight-digit totals, the township saw $12,468,641 in building starts.

The 2008 total was buoyed by the $6-million July launch of the HD Supply warehouse and the $900,000 addition to the Cambro Lasertek.

Back in 2001 when the $3-million Keeler Centre was built, permits totalled $7,516,552.

Housing starts have shown a steady decline since the peak of 59 in 2005. There were 17 single-family homes started in 2009 compared to 19 in 2008, 34 in 2007, and 27 in 2006.

Northumberland-Quinte West MPP hosts tax meeting

By Andrew Keogh

Northumberland-Quinte West  M.P.P, Lou Rinaldi, took his Harmonized Sales Tax (H.S.T.) presentation to the Keeler Centre in Colborne on January 21. A group of about 15 people took in the information and posed questions for the M.P.P.

On July 1, 2010, the 13% H.S.T is being instituting province wide. The tax merges the existing 5% G.S.T and 8% P.S.T, and has significant implication for businesses.

The H.S.T will apply to all retail purchases, professional service purchases, fuel and energy purchases, and property purchases. The 31-page hand-out provided to the participants took them through savings outlined by the Ministry of Revenue. The M.P.P. added his own comments to explain the implications for his constituents.

Mr. Rinaldi claims that returns will be seen anywhere between 5 and 10 years and that using the H.S.T. as an investment will produce jobs and growth and keep Canada competitive.

Small businesses and corporations alike can benefit by claiming H.S.T on all business expenses. Under the current structure they cannot claim the P.S.T.

Additionally, R.S.T (retail sales taxes) fronted by retailers on all business inputs (materials and services employed by the business) will be reshuffled into a V.A.T (Value added tax) at all levels from primary producers, to manufacturers to retailers. It is anticipated that these savings will be carried forward to the consumer.

The H.S.T. also will simplify business administration through one set of books, one remittance, one audit etc.
Corporations will be provided $4.5 billion in tax relief over three years through corporate income tax cuts, eliminating surtaxes and exemptions from the corporate minimum tax. . Businesses can also benefit from property tax relief through a marginal reduction in the education levies of property taxes.

Individuals in the lowest and middle income brackets will receive $4 billion in transition relief with rebates for couples and parents of up to $1000.00 and singles up to $300.00.

Personal income taxes for those brackets (i.e $0-$37,106/year) will see a reduction in rates from 6.05 to 5.05% this year. There is an additional $270 million in property tax credits and up to $260.00/adult in sales tax credits, both applying to low and middle income earners.

The H.S.T will apply to all goods and services that are subject to the existing G.S.T. The breakdown provided by the M.P.P. suggests that 83% of goods and services taxes will remain unchanged.

All fuels and energy inputs will have additional taxes placed on them as of July 1, 2010. The H.S.T will be applied on top of existing excise and fuel taxes.

Most private professional services and administration costs like insurance brokerage fees, public transit, hair dressing, and realty charges will fall under the new H.S.T and be paid at point of sale. Any qualified rebates will be returned to the claimant when taxes are filed.

Reports circulated by Revenue Canada claim that the average Ontarian will experience a neutral or very marginal change in expense in the coming years, totaling no more than $50-75 either in deficit or surplus. Estimates claim that the lowest income earners will benefit $90/year on average, and the top income earners in Ontario will have to pay $390 more annually.

A Cramahe View

Northumberland M.P.P Lou Rinaldi and his team greeted about 15 Cramahe citizens with smiles and charm at the Keeler Center on Thursday, January 21. With no flute in hand however and no cobra in a sack, it was clear that charm was in full force.


Now charm is another way really to say fool, and this generally is a tactic to gain favour, or more often, to get something out of somebody. And what more does the provincial government want but more taxes for bigger budgets. This revenue translates into a new flowery and quite beautifully worded, H.S.T or harmonized sales tax. Where the harmony comes into play, I’m not too sure, but it’s probably worded accordingly to charm you into believing it’s benefiting us in some way and calm you when your bills start coming in.

As of July 1, 2010, as you may already be aware, the H.S.T is being instituted province-wide. This cure-all tax is a merger of the existing G.S.T and P.S.T basically and has further implication for businesses. With G.S.T at 5% currently, and P.S.T measuring in at 8%, H.S.T will be a 13% tax on all retail purchases, professional service purchases, fuel and energy purchases, property purchases and nearly everything in between. The hand-out which was provided, walked us through 31 pages of savings outlined by the Ministry of Revenue, and I have to hand it to them, they make it seem pretty good.

Granted, many attendants at the meeting met the news of tax hikes with nods of approval and understanding. Most of these came from the ladies of the office of Mr. Rinaldi, and generally most women 40 and older in the audience, who have too been charmed by Rinaldi’s down-to-earth and small-town connection.

This is not an attack on Mr. Rinaldi in the least.

Read more

Letter to the blog

It was with interest that I read the report of the last council meeting especially in regards to the proposed apartment on the corner of Victoria and Arthur Street by McDonald Homes from Brighton.
When consultant Mr. Josephs made his report there was nothing in the councillor’s information package that they receive before a scheduled council meeting.
The government agencies report he was referring to, was not given to councillors.
There was nothing regarding the petition with about 100 signatures and the numerous letters sent in opposition, to town hall from taxpayers.
The information submitted that the property zoning was amended from “Residential” (R1) to “Institutional” (CF) in 1999 was not mentioned.
No mention that the Johnston subdivision plan across the street, is now back alive zoned R3, a building is already planned on the east side of Victoria Street- across the street from the proposed apartment building by McDonald Homes.
The submitted government papers regarding Noise Assessment-Stationary Source of Sound was not presented, this is in regards to the hydro transformer by the work sheds.
I would like to know if this was an oversight or whether this was done on purpose.
We the tax payers elected a council to look after our interest and we sure do not need someone to either do backroom deals or keep council in the dark as to what is really going on.
I am sure that there are very few taxpayers that will be happy if council has to make a decision, without knowing all the facts.

Anyone that wants to contact me via email can do so. I will forward them to council.
My email address is: john.ton@sympatico.ca

John Ton

Earl and Victoria land may sell

Vacant property on the southwest corner of Earl Street and Victoria Street went under tax sale by Cramahe Township late last year.



One interested buyer arrived minutes before the deadline and missed his chance before bidding closed at a minimum bid of $10,841.13.

Council deemed the land surplus at the January 19 meeting and is waiting for the receipt of two appraisals at fair market value of light industrial land.

If the un-named buyer is interested in purchasing the property at the appraised price, and it is sold, Cramahe Township will receive $3,227.39 in property back taxes.

Whoa - hold that pumper!

By Andrew Keogh

Cramahe Township decided on January 19 to call an additional meeting on Thursday, January 28 to decide on the purchase of a new fire pumper.

The council meeting will follow a January 27 in-house fire department meeting, where all interested parties will discuss the quotes of available vehicles and recommend a purchase.

The decision came as a response to an unusual request from the township Fire Chief, Jim Harris.

Chief Harris requested that council allow him to obtain quotes from a single source on a new truck worth up to $240,000. He also asked that council allow Mayor Marc Coombs, Chief Administrative Officer, Christie Alexander, and himself to approve the purchase of the proposed vehicle without returning to council for approval.

Cramahe purchasing policy does not allow a purchase of this size without requesting tenders. The policy would have to be over-ridden by the requested council vote.

The chief explained that the desired standard models with 2009 engines are going fast, often within two weeks of being quoted. One of the four companies he has contacted has already sold out of the 2009 models. The 2010 models have added pollution controls which add $8-15 thousand to the cost. Custom-made trucks cost about $400 thousand or more. Mr. Harris indicated the purchase of a “stock” pumper was most timely and within budget.

Councillor Tim Gilligan expressed concern over the exclusion of firefighters and deputy chief Gary Cammack in this decision and was unhappy that no dialogue had occurred between Mr. Harris and the fire department regarding the purchase of the new pumper.

Mr. Cammack responded by indicating he had been invited along with deputy chief, John Jacobs, to join those discussions.

The typical process of purchasing a replacement fire pumper begins with the collection of specifications from the firefighters who will use the vehicle. These specs. are sent to fire vehicle manufacturers or dealerships and tenders are sent back. The department then decides on the best options available and brings them to council.

Mr. Harris’ intention was to expedite the process, with his concerns over unavailability and cost, by requesting authorization to purchase the new pumper carte blanche.

Councillor Pat Westrope voiced caution about making a hasty purchase for an item of such a cost, remarking further that council would like to see a collection of quotes from which to choose.

Councillor Ed Van Egmond questioned the dismissal of 2010 models with pollution controls adding that a “green council” might be better represented by making green choices

The township must replace its 26-year-old pumper truck in order to maintain the standard set by the insurance underwriters.

The purchase of a $240,000 new pumper would exhaust the current fire equipment reserve and tap into $30,000 from the 2010 budget reserve.

Councillor Van Egmond highlighted the need for new equipment also such as gas masks on the pumper itself, costs not currently considered in this discussion.

New hope for Apple Blossom Tyme

By Andrew Keogh

The Apple Blossom Tyme Festival may get a new lease on life if a proposal made by Cramahe Community Services Director, Dan O’Brien gains community support.

In recent years the festival has fallen increasingly on the shoulders of Cramahe residents Pat Johnston with assistance from Carl Wilce. In a recent conversation with Cramahe Now, Ms. Johnston expressed her desire to retire and her concern that the festival carry on. She acknowledged Mr. O’Brien’s statement that there is a need for long-term planning and succession. In recent years the festival has been a financial and artistic success despite reduced participation from a broad cross section of the community in the organization.

Ms. Johnston has enlisted the assistance this year of Councillor Pat Westrope, but Mr. O’Brien’s vision will provide a more integrated and cohesive organization with a mandate to plan well into the future if it is put into place.

If he can find the support from inside the community, he is proposing that Apple Blossom Tyme be restructured. Mr O’Brien remarked that the event could be classified as an agricultural fair or the like so to open up opportunities for grant proposals and other funding available under the provincial Agriculture and Horticulture Act.

The director feels he can help establish an organizational structure which will ensure the festival’s continued existence. Under his proposal, interested stakeholders would create a governing board which would plan and execute the fair.

Numerous groups in the community already conduct fundraising at the festival so they may want to take an active part in keeping the festival alive and in helping it thrive in the long term.

Cramahe Council decided at its January 19 meeting to permit Mr. O’Brien to take action in building a board of stakeholders. The next step for Mr. O’Brien is to contact and bring together all interested parties including service clubs and local businesses. Through these meetings, Mr. O’Brien hopes to explain the process of instituting a board of stakeholders and gain support and commitment to the cause.

McDonald homes apartment reports updated

By Andrew Keogh

Cramahe Council has decided to accept the planning report of the McDonald Homes apartments after hearing from its Municipal Planning Consultant, Peter Josephs on January 19.

In his report, Mr. Josephs reminded council of the public meeting held last October to discuss the multi-unit building proposed for the northwest corner of Victoria and Arthur streets in Colborne. At that meeting there were numerous concerns expressed by the owners of neighbouring properties.

Some area residents, and Councillor Tim Gilligan, who lives on the adjacent crescent spoke of concerns about the potential residents in an apartment building, and suggested reasons why people might not want to live in it

Mr. McDonald and his consultant, Bob Clark, assured the group that the apartments were geared to seniors with incomes and people who chose not to own their own homes. The plans fit with all provincial guidelines and goals, said Mr. Clark.

Steve Bowskill, who is involved in the proposal, wondered aloud at the October meeting whether the people were opposed in concept, or because it would be “in their back yards”.

In the end, council asked for more details from the developer.

On January 19 council got answers to some of its questions.

By early December, the developer had provided the results of stormwater and archaeology studies. Township also has a statement from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing stating it has no concerns. The Lower Trent Conservation Authority has no objections to the stormwater plan for the property.

But the consultant’s report suggested there is still more clarification needed. An environmental assessment has been done but not reviewed yet by the township. Mr. Josephs was also uncertain about the attached drawings. The applicant forwarded the drawings as a proposed design. Mr. Joseph was not sure if this was a formal commitment to construct the building in the drawing.

The rendition placed before council on January 19 shows a raised 14-unit, two-storey building, with six units on the first and second floors and two in the basement. Parking has been moved back from the west property line to give the neighbouring property additional buffering.

Township staff has yet to consider traffic and site –servicing matters.

Copies of these reports and plans were forgotten in the Jan 19th council agenda. They were requested from Deputy Mayor Jim Williams and presumably given to all members of council to study.

It is expected that council will make a final decision regarding a proposed Official Plan Amendment and Zoning Bylaw Amendment at its March 2 meeting.

More signs - more money

By Andrew Keogh

Cramahe Township Council decided on January 19 to spend $10,585 on three promotional and directional signs for its industrial park. The money will come from a Community Adjustment Funding grant. $12,745 was granted to the township in total.

Carved in Stone, a Cramahe sign manufacturer was awarded the project after bidding in a Request for Proposal process.

Township Development Officer, Rebecca Goddard-Sarria recommended that council accept the $10,585 bid of the local firm, Carved in Stone.

Port Hope-based LB Graphics submitted the lowest bid of $7,760. The other four bidders were from outside of this area and ranged from $9,750 to $14,189.

Ms. Goddard-Sarria advised council that she had contacted seven county-based companies before Christmas. Of these, only 5 requested proposal forms. 2 local companies ultimately submitted proposals to compete with 4 others outside of our county.

Each of the criterion was broken down into segments and given an overall value. Bids were ranked according to their scores.

Deputy Mayor Jim Williams added that while Carved in Stone has a Brighton number, it does in fact lie within Cramahe borders and approved the support of a local business.

Councillor Pat Westrope questioned Ms. Goddard-Sarria, asking for justification for spending 35% more than the lowest bid on the project.

Ms. Goddard-Sarria highlighted the townships history with the company, and the suitability of the design, the locality of the business. Her comments were enough to earn Councillor Westrope’s approval.

Councillor Ed Van Egmond wondered how the evaluation criteria of different companies were allotted.

Ms. Goddard-Sarria explained that she based her preference on a company overview (10%), work plan and project development (10%), experience with similar projects(20%), creativity and suitability of the proposed design (30%) and cost (30%).

Ms. Goddard-Sarria couldn’t specify on how the remaining $2,160 would be used but suggested it would be eaten up in the negotiations with Carved in Stone.

Watch for our new writer

Keep your eyes open for the latest news - brought to you by Andrew Keogh.

Andrew has joined our team and will cover various community events and some meetings of Cramahe Council. His first council notes will be on your screen within the next 24 hours.

Some of you are already familiar with Andrew's camera work. He was the official Cramahe Now photographer for the 2009 Rotary Harvest Auction.

Keep those doggies rollin'...

The Community Services Department reported to Cramahe Council on January 19 that the Optimist Club has donated a hot dog roller machine to the Keeler Centre kitchen in Dec of 2009.

In his written report, Community Services Director Dan O'Brien stated, "This machine is a valuable asset to our kitchen facilities and assists us in improving our generation of revenue while providing food service at the Keeler Centre.

Colborne water meets all standards

Cramahe Township Council was advised on January 19 that its municipal water supply is safe and meets all requirements of the Ministry of the Environment.

The report, tabled by Chief Administrative Officer, Christie Alexander and Works Director, Barry Thrasher, explained how this year's report was a slight improvement over the 2008-9 year when the township was 99.48% compliant.

The 2008-9 score was a result of a lack of detail in indicating the sampler and exact time of test on the Daily Log Sheets. Subsequent to that score being received, senior staff met with Paul Kairns, Drinking Water Inspector, Ministry of the Environment, to determine what would be required in the way of improvements to the operational log sheets. As a result a modified operational log sheet was designed and put in use. The Ministry of the Environment confirmed that the modified log sheets met their requirement and as a result a rating of 100% was attained this year.

The Ministry of the Environment (MOE) has a rigorous and comprehensive inspection program for municipal residential drinking water systems. Its objective is to determine the compliance of municipal residential drinking water systems with requirements under the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002, associated regulations and MOE Certificates of Approval.

Their tests cover capacity, treatment processes, operation manuals, emergecny planning and water quality monitoring.

County has new Growth Strategy

Northumberland County now has a Growth Management Strategy which it has forwarded to the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.
The strategy, created by the county consultant, Meridian Planning Consultants, and passed on December 9, 2009, outlines how the county and the seven lower-tier municipalities will implement the province's Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe.

The provincial plan sets out to coordinate where the population and emplyment will grow between 2009 and 2036.

The county report contains recommendations that address how the population and employment forecast in the Growth Plan developed by the Province should be allocated to the seven local municipalities; what the minimum intensification and Greenfield density targets should be in the six urban area with built boundaries; and what policies should be considered by the local municipalities when bringing their Official Plans into conformity with the Growth Plan.

The Growth Plan was allowed a county-wide population growth of 16,000 between 2001 and 2031. By 2006, the county population had already grown by 3,705, leaving only 11,877 to allocate in the plan which has been sent to the province for approval.

Of the 4,000 jobs recommended in the plan, 1,000 were already created by 2006, leaving 3,000 to allocate to the various municipalities.

In Cramahe the strategy allocates a population growth of 611 in Colborne and 184 in the rest of Cramahe by 2031. Given the current average household size and number of house starts in the township in 2009, the prediction is relatively accurate.

Brighton has been allocated 1,245 of which only 87 are slated for rural areas.

Bearing this mind, the report states the strategy does not serve to restrict population growth, provided infrastructure is available.

The potential does exist to exceed the provincial forecast. In the case of intensification, the only test to be met is whether it is good planning.

It is important to note a provincial statement indicating,“A land supply that exceeds the growth currently forecasted does not mean the County’s municipalities must halt development (subdivision and zoning) approvals. Local municipalities may approve new development where land is already designated for development and for which servicing has already been approved and allocated. The municipality’s decisions to approve future development must however meet the Growth Plan objectives of building complete communities, directing major growth to settlement areas that offer municipal water and wastewater systems and limiting growth in rural areas.”

It will be up to the local municipalities to determine how they will bring their Official Plans into conformity with the Growth Plan. Public meetings will be held, and residents and landowners will have an opportunity to comment on the decisions made at the local level to implement the Growth Management Strategy under the Planning Act.
The Final Summary Report entitled “County of Northumberland and Its Member Municipalities Growth Management Strategy” that may be viewed by the public on the County’s website at: http://www.northumberlandcounty.ca/forms/growthmanagement.asp

Students get first aid training

East Northumberland Secondary School Physical and Health Education Students in Ms. Simm’s and Mr. Larry’s Grade 11 classes recently were certified in Emergency First Aid. The program was carried out in class over the period of 4 days. East Northumberland is grateful to both the St John’s Chapter in Belleville for providing the expertise of instructors Ron and Dennis and to the Brighton Rotary Club for providing funding.

Repatriation set for Tuesday

The repatriation of the body of Canadian soldier, Sergeant John Faught is set for Tuesday at 2 p.m.

Sgt. Faught was killed by an improvised explosive device while on patrol near Nakhonay last Saturday. Sgt. Faught is the 139th Canadian soldier to die on the Afghanistan mission since 2002. He was a member of the 1st Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based in Edmonton, Alberta.

Who are you?

Several times in the past few months someone sitting on the equator in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa has been on Cramahe Now. We can't even seem to find land in that area. If you read this can you send us an email - to satisfy our curiosity.

Salem Sampler - reprise

Anyone who has lived in this area for any length of time and read the Colborne Chronicle will remember the down-to-earth musings and recollections of Nancy Ellis in her regular Salem Sampler column. The column was discontinued some years ago, but Nancy has generously agreed to bring it back – 2010 version, once a month. Today’s posting is her first in the new online Salem Sampler.


A Salem Sampler –reprise

Let me see, now where was I…

Oh yes… I was passing on information about events in Salem community.

It’s a new year, 2010.

Do you realize we’re now a whole decade advanced into the much-vaunted Millenium? How will you pronounce it? Two thousand and ten, or the shortened twenty-ten?

Anyway, now that we’ve packed Christmas firmly away for another year, I’d like to give it one more thought.

Christmas for us at Salem invariably begins with the annual Country Fare Bazaar and Tea which takes place at the end of November. This year’s event, dubbed “The Magi” was outstanding due to the talent, creativity, dedication and plain hard work of its organizing committee, its members and the Salem community. Everyone participated.

The king-sized sign on the church lawn announcing the event was cut into the shape of a camel. Despite the comments of its perpetrator, Cathy Galt, that it looked more like a donkey, I thought, as did many others, that it depicted a perfectly respectable camel.

Most folk seemed to appreciate the innovative changes made in the bazaar this year. It began at 9:00 a.m. with coffee and doughnuts and carried on till 4 in the afternoon with the serving of the traditional afternoon tea and all its delights.

The Magi, Gaspar, Melchior and Balthazar, clad in their gorgeous costumes were in residence answering questions about their attendance.

Atmosphere was created by the swathing of a night-blue material filled with twinkling stars across the ceiling of the hall. You could almost believe you were among the sand dunes of a Mesopotamian desert. Very impressive.

It was a most successful event, as it usually is; we are most grateful for the talent that abounds in Salem.

We offer our sincere thanks to all the folk who supported the event and have done so over the years. We do appreciate you.

There’s always something new and exciting happening in Salem.

There was an almost-packed church for the rainy-night Christmas Eve service with the Rev. Anja Guignon presiding. Our candles, snuffed out rather than extinguished, disseminated their wisps of smoke into the atmosphere as tendrils of Hope, Joy, Peace, and Love.

And now, Happy New Year!

The Salem Valley Quilters began their spring session in the church hall on January 6. These get-togethers will continue every Wednesday evening beginning at 7 and ending at 9. It’s a good group which gathers for the practice of this skill; if you’re interested just pop in and join them. Help is available if you need it.

The Quilters displayed their works of art at the bazaar and were a delightful addition.

The Salem Lunch Ladies are back, serving their delicious comfort food. The next lunch is Friday, January 22, at 11:00 a.m., and every two weeks after that.

We have a brand-new state-of-the-art kitchen at Salem – very up-to-date and efficient, and a delight to work in. Have you seen it yet?

If you have any information or news that you would like to share with other Salem folk and the greater community, please let me know as soon as you can and it will be included in the February missive. My phone number is the same 355-2051. Or you can pass the information on to any Salemite and they can contact me.

Hear from you in February?


Nancy Ellis

Another Canadian dies in Afghanistan

Sergeant John Faught is the latest Canadian to fall in Afghanistan. Forty-rour-year-old Sgt. Faught was on a joint foot patrol with Afghan soldiers on Saturday near the town of Nakhoney when he died after stepping on an improvised explosive device (IED).

Sgt. Faught was on a routine patrol at about 2 p.m. local time when the roadside bomb exploded. No one else was hurt.
Nakhoney is one corner of the Panjwaii triangle and a consistent troublespot for Canadians, It has been a hub of insurgent activity, but Canadian troops have been making concerted efforts to secure the area.
Lieutenant Andrew Nuttall, who was killed during a foot patrol on Dec. 23, 2009, was among a group of soldiers who had been staying outside Nakhoney as part of the military’s new strategy of having troops live among Afghans.
At the time, senior defence officials were adamant the strategy was having “great success” despite Nuttall’s death.
They said locals had been approaching troops more often to point out the makeshift IED's, a devastatingly effective weapon of choice for the insurgents.
The combined patrol on which Faught was killed was part of Canada’s effort “to protect Afghans from insurgents and to learn more about the people of the village and their needs,” Menard said Saturday.
“I offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of our great fallen warrior.”
Sgt. Faught was a member of the 1st Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based in Edmonton.
In his comments following the announcement of the death, Brigadier-General Daniel Menard said Faught was affectionately known as “Toast,” because he was “hard and crusty.”
“He could always be counted on to tell it like it is when asked for his opinion,” Menard said.
“He was a very conscientious and thorough section commander who always put the needs of his soldiers above his own." Faught was “very much a father figure” to his younger section members, the Brigadier-General said.
“He protected them and looked out for them much as a father would.”
Sgt. Faught was from Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. He was the 139th Canadian soldier to die since Canada sent troops to the country. It was the third fatal incident involving Canadian troops in the past three weeks.

Grade 8 information night next week

It's Grade 8 Parent Information Night next week at E.N.S.S. in Brighton.

On Tuesday, January 19, parents can attend the school in the evening to find out about the secondary school and programs it will be offering the incoming students in 2010.

For details, please contact the school at 613-475-0540.

Literacy forum comes to Colborne

The Northumberland Poverty Reduction Action Committee is hosting a workshop it hopes will help improve literacy levels in children and youth. The January 27 afternoon session will run at the Keeler Centre in Colborne from 1:45 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.


The afternoon will focus on promising practices:

A panel featuring representatives from the Public and Catholic Boards of Education, the local Learning Disabilities Association chapter, the YMCA Early Years program, and the local public library, will discuss what is presently offered to address literacy levels in children and youth, and identify any gaps in programming.
Parents, educators, service providers and interested community members are welcome to attend.

At 3:30 p.m. Lois Cromarty, Chair Northumberland Poverty Reduction Action Committee, will lead a call to action.

There is help for caregivers

Caregivers don't need to feel they are alone. There is support available to those who care for their loved ones at home.

That was the message given to the Diners' Club by Natisha Debutte on Wednesday.

Natisha is the coordinator of the 18-month-old Northumberland Caregiver Support Services (NCSS). It's her job to find ways to ease the burden of those who look after family or friends at home.

A caregiver is defined as anyone who assists with personal care, or provides transportation, helps with daily activities, provides emotional support or helps take care of finances.

NCSS was formed because there was a recognised gap in the care system. Caregivers were sometimes getting respite, but not necessarily the support they needed. NCSS provides financial resources and makes connections with agencies. It can be as simple as finding someone to cut the lawn or vacuum the house. Or perhaps they can fill an emergency need.

NCSS is also laying on free workshops and providing transportation to them. This month a speaker from Revenue Canada will give tips on how to access disability credits. Next month the speaker will discuss the law surrounding care situations.

The NCSS staff want the caregivers to know that others recognise the difficulty of their work and the importance. It's okay to say, "I need help." Caregivers need to take care of themselves. It is too easy to get burnt out.

Natisha can be contacted at 1-905-885-2626 ext.207

Castleton Library opens

It's official.

With the turn of a key, the Castleton Branch of the Cramahe Library opened on January 13. Tom and Susan Brown were the first two to enter.

Within half an hour the two online computers had been tested and used by early patrons, and librarian Jennifer Taggett was busy signing out the first book - to her mother-in-law, Barb.

Watch for ice thickness - at all times

The following warning comes from the NOrthumberland Detachment of the OPP:

No Ice is Safe…

Despite What They May Say!

(Northumberland County, ON.) - “They say the ice is safe.” That’s the mysterious rumour often circulated at this time of year among the outdoor fraternity; no one knows who “they” are or where their misinformation started. But in the early weeks of every winter, a few outdoor enthusiasts take it as gospel and have close calls or pay with their lives, as occurred a on recent weekend in central Ontario. Consequently, the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) reminds everyone yet again that no ice can be considered 100% safe for travel by any motorized recreational vehicles or trucks, even at this time of year.

To avoid ice risks, the OFSC recommends that snowmobilers ride open, land-based, OFSC trails whenever possible. OFSC clubs provide many trails that avoid water crossings altogether and also provide many bridges and culverts to pass over known water safely.

If you do make the personal choice to travel on ice by snowmobile, wait until a marked stake line is in place and cross only when you can follow it from shore to shore, without stopping on the ice. While ice crossing is never a sure thing, snowmobilers can also reduce their risk by:

Never travelling on ice because “they” say it is safe.

Understanding that ice conditions may vary from day to day, from hour to hour and from place to place.

Checking ice thickness before riding onto any frozen water. At least 15 centimetres (6 inches) of clear, hard ice is needed to support one snowmobile.

Never travelling on ice alone, at night or after consuming alcohol.

Avoiding slushy ice, untracked ice, or ice near moving water.

Staying off ice early or late in the season or after any sudden and pronounced melt, thaw or rain.

Wearing a buoyant snowmobile suit and carrying ice picks.

Remember, you always enter ice at your own risk; neither the OFSC nor its member clubs accept any responsibility or liability for ice crossings or variations in ice conditions.

The OFSC is committed to proactive leadership in promoting safe, responsible riding, on and off Ontario snowmobile trails, by building safer snowmobiling knowledge, attitudes and behaviours through rider education, safety legislation development and enforcement.
For further info, please visit www.ofsc.on.ca or contact: Leta Elsner (705) 739-7669.

Reader asks MP Norlock other questions

Dear Editor;

Perhaps Rick Norlock can answer some of our questions before his staged townhalls.

Through the Bank of Canada, Harper gave 200 billion taxpayer dollars to financiers in exchange for their toxic debt, accumulated through irresponsible trading in 'innovative' financial products.

Where has that money gone, exactly? Where are the public audits of financiers who received our money? Self-reports from those bailed out or their business colleagues, are insufficient.

The Harper government changed regulations in the Bank of Canada Act to reduce public reporting of exchanges with private financiers. It has allowed an increase in irresponsible, privacy-protected electronic trade in derivatives, hedge funds, and leveraged debt, promoting further boom and bust cycles while taxpayer dollars disappear into the void.

Nothing has changed since the economic crash. Obama's and the G20 proposed 'financial reform' actually entrenches irresponsible financial behaviour globally through the World Trade Organization. The trade rules guarantee financier privacy and rights to expand their destructive behaviour. Another crash is inevitable unless the trade context is changed.

Further, through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Harper has been guaranteeing the shoddy loan practices of insurers like US-partnered AIG Canada, with tens of billions of taxpayer dollars. Presumably Harper knows that this hemorrhaging of our money will continue under 'free trade' rules. When will the backdoor bailouts and the trade giveaways stop?

Meanwhile, the Harper government has continued to cut critical public services funding. He has cut funding for women's shelters, those with disabilities, even church groups doing justice work. Harper has refused to return money taken from workers through the Employment Insurance fund. Child poverty and the gap between rich and poor have increased astronomically. Full-time jobs with benefits have gone through the basement, replaced with part-time,low-pay, and instability.

Harper has increased privatization of health care, education, water, telecommunications, and energy, and continues to give-away public assets. The generations-long investments of residents in their public services are given to wealthy financiers, who then fritter the proceeds away in the financial casino. How much longer can the assault on the people of this country continue?

Harper continues to subsidize tar sands profiteers, sending our energy south, destroying the climate and our own reserves while refusing instead to invest in public clean energy for truly sustainable jobs.

Harper has, once again shown his contempt for Parliament by closing it. Democratic debate across the country cannot be replaced by corralled town halls focussed on narrow questions.

How do members of the Harper government explain their assumption that residents are blind to hypocrisy? Have these tactics been suggested by the Bush-era public relations consultants which Harper continues to hire?

I'm looking forward to Rick's responses to these questions, particularly the text of public audits on financier transactions in the past two years.

Sincerely,
Leigh Thomson

Cobourg contest honours Suzanne Kernaghan

A Cobourg Library writing contest is honouring two local teachers who died in a car crash on January 13, 2009.

Cramahe Township resident and greade 2 teacher, Suzanne Kernaghan, and co-worker, Michelle Broomfield died returning from a conference they were attending.

The Cobourg Public Library's sixth annual 'Share Your Stories' writing contest will honour the two dedicated teachers.

The Broomfield-Kernaghan Award will go to a Grade 1 to 3 student who shows great passion and creativity.

"It's for best personal effort, to encourage students who may be finding their introduction to reading and writing especially challenging," said Rhonda Perry, youth services coordinator for the library.

Ms. Kernaghan was frequently in the Cobourg library with her two young children.

"She was really passionate about making sure her class participated in the writing contest. We decided this would be a fitting tribute, sort of a legacy for those two teachers who gave so much," said Ms. Perry. "I'm excited by it... I'd rather Suzanne walked through the doors of the library, but it's a fitting tribute."

The Share Your Stories contest has evolved into a writing contest for local students, judged by well-known local authors. This year Shane Peacock and Ted Staunton are doing the evaluating.

The local authors have been visiting schools, talking to teachers and distributing flyers to promote the contest.

"It's a way to promote writing and promote literacy. We've been very fortunate. A number of teachers have taken it on as a class project," said Ms. Perry.

Students are invited to submit an original unpublished hand-written or printed story by Saturday, Jan. 23, at 5 p.m. The grade 1 to 3 students are asked for stories of 100 words or more. Stories by the kids in grades 4 to 6, can be 400 words or more. Stories from the Grades 7 and 8's, should be 500 words or longer.

High school students must submit stories that are 750 words or longer.

Three entries in each category will win Share Your Stories Prizes of movie passes, books and cash.

A public awards presentation will be held on Saturday, Jan. 30, at 10 a.m.

Students wishing to enter the contest must submit their stories with their name, phone number and grade attached to their entry on a separate page. Stories can be dropped off at main branch of the Cobourg Public Library, faxed to 905-372-4538, emailed to rperry@cobourg.library.on.ca or mailed to Share Your Stories Contest, c/o Rhonda Perry, 200 Ontario St., Cobourg, ON, K9A 5P4.

For more information, call the library at 905-372-9271 ext. 6130 or visit www.cobourg.library.on.ca

Rural leadership course available

Leading Edge: First Steps is coming to Northumberland County!
The following press release was received from the organisers of Leading Edge, a rural leadership program.

The group is working with a local committee which includes Trissia McAllister, the Agricultural and Creative Services Coordinator for Northumberland County, Erica Meekes, executive assistant to Northumberland-Quinte West MP,  Rick Norlock, Jamie Simmons from the Community Futures Development Corporation and Barinder Gill from the Northumberland Youth Council.



Cobourg, Roseneath and Campbellford, February 20, 27 and March 6, 2010:

Building Strong Individuals to Build Strong Rural Communities is the focus of a leadership skills training program now being offered in Northumberland County. Leading Edge: First Steps is a three day, six-session skills-based rural leadership training program for people of all ages. “Whether people have leadership experience in the community already, or they are new to town, Leading Edge: First Steps will show that individuals who are interested in leadership development can do something great right here at home,” says Kelly Robinson, Local Program Coordinator.
Leading Edge: First Steps is focused on building basic personal leadership skills and knowledge that will help participants to be more effective in their local organizations, while developing local networking opportunities. Participants will develop a greater understanding of the value of leadership in this region, enabling them to build teams that work together more effectively.
Leading Edge: First Steps is part of Steps to Leadership, a continuum of leadership development opportunities designed to build leadership capacity in rural Ontario. The program is a collaborative initiative of The Centre for Rural Leadership, 4-H Ontario, The Ontario Rural Council and Foundation for Rural Living, managed by The Centre for Rural Leadership in Guelph, and is funded in part by the Agricultural Adaptation Council and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
“We see leadership as a key component of capacity building in rural Ontario: the greatest potential for success is in reaching the next generation of leaders” says Alicia Evans, Project Manager for Steps to Leadership. “The program brings participants in contact with existing leaders, and fosters them through a continuum of leadership learning opportunities.”
Leading Edge: First Steps is coming to Northumberland County!
The first two sessions in the Leading Edge: First Steps program will be held at the County of Northumberland Administration Building, located at 555 Courthouse Rd, Cobourg on Saturday February 20, 2010 from 9am – 3:30pm. Following sessions will be held on Saturday February 27, 2010 from 9am-3:30pm at the Alnwick Community Centre in Roseneath and Saturday March 6, 2010 from 9am-3:30pm at the Campbellford Community Centre. The cost to participants to attend the Leading Edge: First Steps program is only $120 and financial assistance is available. All interested participants can apply to attend the program by contacting Kelly Robinson at (905)377-8976 or at kkrobinson6@hotmail.com or by visiting the Steps to Leadership website at http://www.stepstoleadership.ca/
About The Centre for Rural Leadership:

The Centre for Rural Leadership, incorporated in 2002, is an Ontario organization designed to offer agricultural and rural leadership programming, ensuring the delivery of leadership development programming to suit the many needs of today’s current and emerging leaders.

For further information, please contact The Centre for Rural Leadership at (519) 826-4204, info@stepstoleadership, or visit www.stepstoleadership.ca.

All Cramahe gets all-day kindergarten

The Province of Ontario released its list of about 580 schools which will get all-day every-day kindergarten in 2010 - and both Cramahe Township schools are on the list. Colborne Public School and the new Northumberland Hills Public School were granted the new program.

Kawartha Pine Ridge District Board of Education has 77 elementary schools. Only 10 schools got the program which the provincial government is phasing in over the next six years. Five schools in he Peterborough Victoria Northumberland Catholic District School Board which oversees St. Mary's Separate School in Grafton will get the program. St Mary's is not one of them.

The provincial website states "Full-day learning is a key part of the government's plan to strengthen education in Ontario and create an even better-educated workforce. It will give our youngest students an integrated day of learning, provide a stronger start for kids and make life easier for busy parents.

This is the government's next step in its education plan, which has reduced class sizes, raised the graduation rate by nine percentage points and added about 100,000 students in universities and colleges."

It is not known why Cramahe came out the big winner in the kindergarten sweepstakes, but it did. It is unlikely that any other community in the province can claim to have all its students in full-time kindergarten next September.

Boards submitted lists of eligible schools to the ministry last month and the government said priority would be given to low-income neighbourhoods, as well as those that have available space.

In his January 12 press release, Northumberland-Quinte West MPP, Loou Rinaldi advised parents who are interested in registration for full-day learning classes, including the before and after-school program, to contact their local school or school board.

He stated, "In full-day learning classrooms, teachers and registered early childhood educators will work together to help children learn and develop emotional, social and academic skills that are crucial for healthy development. Schools will also offer extended day programs led by early childhood educators. Parents can enrol their child in these integrated programs for a reasonable fee, giving children even more opportunities to learn, play and grow."

Contacted after the announcement, Michele Adams, principal of South Cramahea and Castleton Public Schools was pleased with the news. Details of the new programs have yet to be worked out.

According to a CBC report, parents will pay extra if they want to enrol their child in an extended-day plan that provides before- and after-school programming for what the government says will be a "reasonable" fee.

Castleton Library opens

The Castleton Branch of the Cramahe Library will open Wedesday from 4-8 p.m.

The branch has been closed for well over a year as the township completed renovations to the building and discussions were held over the future of the branch. When it closed in 2008 there was some feeling that the branch might be closed permanently due to low usage. But local protests put an end to the idea before it was given any lengthy consideration.

The new Cramahe Library Board Chief Executive Officer, Mary Norton announced on January 11 that the branch will be open 12 hours a week to start. Hours will be dependant on usage.

It will be open:
Tuesdays - 10.00am - 2.00pm
Wednesdays - 4.00pm - 8.00pm
Saturdays - 10.00am - 2.00pm

The link to the library open house held last November is posted below.

Castleton Library Open House

Vet's emergency advice a "must read"

Northumberland Veterinary Professional Corp. veterinarian Michelle Chiunti is a regular contributor to Cramahe Now. Her latest submission is a "must read" article for pet owners, a definitive answer to the question, "What do I do if my pet needs medical assistance?" Print it and post it on your fridge. One day you may need it.


By: Michelle Chiunti, D.V.M.


Emergencies happen in life – despite the many safeguards we put in place to prevent them. And trust me, after 22 years in practice, just when you thought you have heard them all, one will still come along to stump you. The question with animals are – who and when do you call in regards to an emergency; what is considered an emergency; what can you do before leaving to see a veterinarian; and how do you safely transport your valued four-legged family member.
Unlike urban centers, small communities do not have 24-hour emergency veterinary facilities. Before you have an emergency, you should question your normal veterinarian in regards to their availability of emergency services. It is mandated by law in Ontario that all veterinarians must have arrangements for emergency veterinary care. In recent years, the “James Herriot” country vet is becoming extinct. Many veterinarians attempt to have a more normal life by sharing on-call with neighbouring practitioners. Still others choose to forward their clients to emergency care facilities such as in Whitby and Kingston, Ontario. Our practice has resisted this change by employing enough veterinarians in the practice to share the on-call, and cover emergencies for our regular clients. However, in a time of stress when you have an emergency with your pet, you should have your veterinarian’s phone number handy and know what emergency care procedures they have in place.

What is considered an emergency with your pet?

To find out and learn what you should do click on the full story below:

Emergency Pet Care

Thank you readers

Thank you once again for your support. In the past two weeks we passed two more milestones when we had our 75,000th page read and our 40,000th visitor.

Watch for changes soon that will make Cramahe Now even better to read.

Rick Norlock seeks public input

In a press release issued late last week, Northumberland-Quinte West MP, Rick Norlock invited public input into the federal government's plans. The release is printed below:

Rick Norlock will hold Public Consultations on Phase Two of Canada’s Economic Action Plan
January 7th 2010, Northumberland Quinte West- Our government is preparing for the implementation of the second phase of Canada’s Economic Action Plan. Economic recovery remains fragile, despite early signs of stabilization, and strong leadership in trying economic times will help strengthen and stabilize the Canadian economic recovery.
In the coming weeks Rick Norlock will be taking an opportunity to meet with members of the local Chambers of Commerce, Manufacturers Associations and members of the public to discuss the future of Canada’s economy and the implementation of phase two of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
“The second phase of Canada’s Economic Action Plan will be implemented soon. Our priorities include continuing the implementation of projects that stimulate economic growth and job creation.” said Rick Norlock, MP. “At the same time, our government will be preparing for future challenges, including restoring a balanced budget when our economy has recovered, and strengthening the foundation for Canada’s economic future.”
Public meetings will take place on:
January 16th, 2010
10:00am-11:30am
The Oddfellows Hall, 243 Victoria St.
Campbellford On.
1:00pm-2:30pm
The Multipurpose Room
City Hall Quinte West
7 Creswell Drive
January 20th, 2010
4:00pm-6:00pm
Rick Norlock’s Office
277 Division St.
Cobourg On.
The Federal Government will be seeking responses from Canadians on a number of questions.. To read them click on the link below -

Rick Norlock questions

Letter to the blog

Dear Editor,

Thank you for your ongoing work in sharing Cramahe news.

Friends have talked of the Ontario grid-tied energy program; some are interested in the 81-cent contract for solar energy.

The Feed-In-Tariff (FIT) contract has several clauses which must be removed for the program to be useful. As it stands, any who sign the contract give away- "transfer"- their rights to the "environmental attributes" including the rights to future development and profits.

Here's how:

1) Under NAFTA and other 'free trade' and inter-provincial agreements, when private entities function in cross-border trade - as investors, infrastructure, or service 'partners', they are given rights which include the ability to sue public bodies for regulations which limit their private profit. Decisions are made by unelected, appointed trade dispute tribunals.

These investor-state provisions have been expanded in Harper’s attempts to include sub-federal procurement with the US. McGuinty too has put similar clauses and dispute processes in his inter-provincial trade agreement.

The European Union, in negotiations with the Harper government, has expressed interest in our energy and water and pushed for free trade in services.

Under current and pending trade deals, transnational corporate investors, infrastructure and service providers are given additional rights over residents, each time they are given more of our public services. These rights include all functional rights pertaining to use and development of energy sources, and rights to profit.

2) The Dec. 10th contract for would-be solar providers in Ontario forces them to transfer their rights.
http://microfit.powerauthority.on.ca/pdf/microFIT%20contract%20version%201.3%20December%2010_2009.pdf .

Section 5.1 Transfer of Rights refers to the Appendix of Definitions on Environmental Attributes. This includes, "c) any and all rights, title, and interest relating to the nature of an energy source...”

The definition incorporates any present or future role of non-government agencies (ie corporations), federally or internationally.

The section on applicable laws states these transfers of rights are subject to all federal laws, which of course include trade law as noted in 1) above. Corporations partnered with the province or feds, now or in future, would have the rights to onsite environmental attributes.

Section 10 Termination of the Agreement states you can cancel the agreement with thirty days notice BUT Section 12 on Assignment says the OPA can transfer the rights (which you've transferred to it) to anyone else at any time without your consent. The rights transferred to other parties may remain in force because of law even though you cancel the contract agreement.

The bottom line is they're making the feed-in tariff program look initially appealing to potential suppliers, but participants sign away the most lucrative rights, which can only increase in value in future.

Immediate Solutions:

The rights to energy must be retained by communities and residents. Problematic clauses in FIT contracts must be eliminated.

Further:

We can cancel trade deals and out-vote destructive politicians. We can retain public assets and public rights.

Energy sources, access and benefit from sun, wind, and water, are a gift in nature belonging to all. Benefit can be recycled back to local communities, not privatized and given away.



Sincerely,

Leigh Thomson