BIA funding request denied

Seaway Intermediate and District High School’s shop class has become a “dust-free” zone. Well, as close to “dust-free” as possible at this point.

The sawdust collector was a summer addition and, as UCDSB Manager of Design and Construction, Peter Bosch, explained, part of the Ministry of Education’s Regular School Renewal Capital program.

Seaway was chosen for the project because of the need. The old system was, in fact, “really old” and, in addition, it “wasn’t working well.”

The sawdust collector – (yes, they really do call it that) – is a vacuum that draws in the sawdust and wood bits, sending them directly to an enclosed bin outside the school. In addition to being attached to the machines directly, there are also loose vacuum hoses. The machines will not run unless the vacuum has been turned on.

Seaway Principal Terry Gardiner explained that it “modernizes the wood-shop construction classroom.”

In addition to keeping the room relatively clean, it provides a safer and more air-friendly environment for students. “Not only is it a newer one, but it’s much safer,” said Bosch.

Bosch told the Leader that the sawdust collector cost approximately $194,000 in total from removing the old unit to completing the installation of this newer unit.

According to Gardiner, the sawdust collector “fits well with Seaway’s direction to encourage students for all pathways.”

“All students benefit: (those interested in) architecture, design, engineering, or hands on programming.”

In addition to the new dust-collector, Bosch also revealed that in 2010 Seaway was one of the schools retrofitted to “reduce carbon footprint.” The T12 fluorescent lights were replaced with T8’s, which provide a more natural light. This change alone reduces energy consumption and prevents toxic chemicals.

UCDSB received a rebate cheque through the Ministry of Education’s Energy Efficiency – Small Equipment Grant for replacing the T12 lighting.

[…]

Matilda Hall in Dixon’s Corners was the place to be on Saturday morning.

The Brinston United Church held their 20th Annual Fall Craft Show at Matilda Hall on October 29th.

Organizer, Leslie Disheau, confirmed that “the proceeds from the admission and vendor registration go to the general fund for the church to pay our monthly bills. The luncheon proceeds go directly to the Sunday school for their operational cost.”

The show boasted “lots of new vendors, great gift items and door prize draws” as well as a luncheon. 

Also, for those interested  in shopping whether for themselves or for “early” Christmas gifts, there were lots of handmade  items including clothing, blankets, decorations, and baking.  

As of October 31st, Disheau said, “I don’t have a total yet of how much we made, but I do know we were down by 100 people coming through the doors this year. Last year we were over 300 people (and) this year it was just over 200.” 

She acknowledged that there is “so much going on (and) people can only be in so many places in one day.”

“I do a satisfaction survey with the vendors and all of them were super satisfied with the luncheon and love the fact the kids are servers. They also were satisfied with how the day went,” she added.

“This year I had nine new vendors, so people would have seen some new products.”

As for success, the Craft Show boasted a full parking lot, a full hall, and lots of satisfied visitors.

[…]

Store owner Ken Rundle was very busy on Saturday, May 18, as he welcomed old and new visitors to the grand re-opening of the newly renovated Giant Tiger store in Morrisburg. He and his staff of 30 had been on the site since early morning, as large crowds took advantage of the savings and the fun activities scheduled.

“It’s a perfect day,” Rundle said. “We were hoping for big re-opening crowds and we are definitely getting them. The Morrisburg and District Lions have been serving up hot dogs and pop for $1, and people have been lined up non stop.” All funds  raised by the Lions at the GT celebration go to the club’s charities and projects.

Standing in the bright store, its walls painted a warm yellow, Rundle explained that the renovations had taken about 11 weeks. “We’ve changed the store around, grouped merchandise to create a better flow for customers. We stayed open during the entire renovation so people could actually see the transformation. All Giant Tiger stores are moving to this new concept. Cornwall is celebrating its re-opening today too.”

Giant Tiger is the leading Canadian owned family discount store, committed to providing on trend family fashions, groceries and everyday needs. The privately held company was established in 1961 in Ottawa, and has over 200 locations throughout Canada. 

During its celebration, the Morrisburg store offered promotional giveaways, draws for GT gift cards, face painting (with volunteer Catharine Prevost), visits with Friendly the Tiger and lots of bargains.

“While today is our big day,” Rundle said, “the deals will go on. Our store has a Hometown feel and offers everyone a real ‘hometown hello.’”

[…]