News

For info on the dogs or how to adopt a dog please call the South Dundas Animal Shelter 613-913-1476

To see more pictures and videos of all the dogs at the South Dundas Animal Shelter please go to the Facbook page: South Dundas Pet Rescue 

Cookie: 3-4 year old, Black Lab/Border Collie Mix. Not neutered. Some house-training. Amazingly friendly, fun-loving boy. Likes to play, loves people. Really, really needs a chance. Smart dog, very trainable and he keeps getting overlooked at the Shelter. Cookie is a really good natured dog who is looking for someone just to give him a chance…he has a favourite ball that he plays with all by himself and it is heart-breaking to see this happy guy so lonely….We suspect Cookie will need some house-manner training and leash training, but with his Lab and Border Collie mix, we figure he will be quick to learn whatever his new family wants to teach him. A real gem looking for a place to fit in.

Prestin: Under one year, male Shepherd mix puppy. Not neutered. Really smart, fun loving pup, with good disposition. Very trainable, likes to play & likes his new toy (in picture). Will be a fairly large sized dog. Is a really happy boy and really likes people.

Ellie: female, house-trained, 3-4 years. Recently had pups. Suspected unkind background. Ellie needs a single owner or quiet couple, no children and no other dogs. Ellie needs kindness, love and a gentle guiding hand to help her. Ellie has some personality issues so she would make a very special project for a kind and loving person…a dog really needing to be shown how to live life. Ellie, definitely needs to be spayed asap.

Gilmor: Happy male puppy, under one year, who so wants out of the Shelter so he can run and play (like other puppies) with a new and loving family. Beautiful, young mix Shepherd, good personality, not a big dog, smart boy. Poor Gilmor is a happy little guy who has spent too many weeks at the South Dundas Animal Shelter and should be out and about playing and being loved by a kind and loving forever family. He is not going to be a big dog when he grows up, but we suspect he is very smart and will make a very handsome pet. He is of course also near the age where he should be neutered…and it is likely he would need his series of puppy shots.

[…]

Over $18,000 was raised for two children’s charities by area McDonald’s restaurants on this year’s McHappy Day. 

The success of this fundraiser was the best ever tally for the one day event locally, said Charles Gagnon, owner of the Morrisburg McDonald’s locations and seven others including those in Brockville, Prescott, Cornwall and Lancaster. 

Two cheques for over $9,200 were handed out at Gagnon’s newest location here in Morrisburg July 2. One went to the Ronald McDonald House charity in Ottawa, and the other to the Children’s Treatment Centre in Cornwall. 

In handing over this donation to the CTC, Gagnon pledged that a portion of next year’s McHappy Day proceeds will again go to the Children’s Treatment Centre. “We will continue to help you. I have you in my heart,” said Gagnon. 

The Children’s Treatment Centre provides free assessment and treatment to children in need in Cornwall and SDG and Akwesasne. 

It is a community supported agency, staffed with a team of professionals skilled in the assessment and treatment of physical, emotional and sexual abuse. 

“This will do a lot of good,” Vince Robinson, board member for the treatment centre, said. “It certainly will help,” said Lyle Van Allen, who is also a board member. “A number of kids benefit from this service.” He presented Gagnon with a plaque acknowledging the McDonald’s support of the organization. 

Gagnon added that this support would not have been possible without the efforts of his staff and McDonald’s customers who made this best ever McHappy Day donation possible. 

This year, local schools supported the McHappy Day effort by offering the opportunity for their students to order a Happy Meal for school lunch on McHappy Day, which was May 7.

[…]

A crowd of 20 individuals, many of whom are affiliated with various area historical organizations, may have been enough to save the Friends of Crysler’s Farm organization.

All who attended made it very clear that the Friends group is something that they would like to see continue.

Although the details of how those who attended the meeting will volunteer their time have yet to be ironed out, most did what they could at the June 24 meeting to support the organization by paying for memberships. About 10 new members paid the fee, in support of the organization which works as an advocate for the memory of the Battle of Crysler’s Farm, a pivotal battle in the war of 1812.

Coming off the Bicentennial year, the group had much to be proud of as the small contingent of a handful of directors was able to work with the St. Lawrence Parks Commission to host two huge events, one which welcomed thousands of visitors and over 600 re-enactors to the site, and another which welcomed over 700 school children and the Prime Minister of Canada.

Recently, the acting president of the group shared the group’s difficult situation as active membership continues to decline, and most of those who remain active have been involved with the group since its inception in 1999. 

Volunteer fatigue has definitely set in, but last week’s meeting may have breathed new life into the organization.

“I am really pleased to see so many locals turn out to support us,” said Robert Irvine, who has been acting as president in place of Robin Morris, whose failing health prevents him from continuing to be active with the group, though he was able to attend the November 11, 2013 event.

Irvine, and many of the core group are not directly from South Dundas, and have often wondered why local people haven’t gotten more involved. 

“What I have seen here tonight definitely shows me there’s enough interest to move this organization forward,” said Irvine.

Gabrielle Thomas, of the SLPC, who has been with the Friends since its inception, added that it was absolutely wonderful that those who attended were also parts of other historical interest groups. Those attending mentioned affiliations with the Grenville Militia, Historical Society of South Dundas, Chesterville Historical Society and Lost Villages Historical Society.

The Friends group is hopeful that a few more hands will lighten the load for events like re-enactments, but might also enable the group to focus more on its advocacy and educational roles.

[…]

This year’s 44th Annual Tubie Festival is going ‘Tubie’ a splash so everyone’s invited to sign up to enter the race and parade to be part of the biggest event ever. 

Tubie Weekend has always been one of the most anticipated weekends of the year in Morrisburg when friends, family and visitors from near and far get together to catch up with each other and have a fantastic time at the parade, the dance and of course the famous Tubie race. 

This year’s event starts Saturday, August 2, with the parade during the day and the Dance from 8-12. 

The race itself will be held Sunday, August 3. 

This year’s organizers, the South Dundas Chamber of Commerce, invites everyone interested in entering a craft for the race and/or a float in the parade to come to a short Information Meeting Thursday, July 10, at 7 p.m. at the McIntosh Country Inn and Conference Centre. 

Past participants, as well as first-timers, are encouraged to come on-board to make Tubie Weekend the biggest splash ever!

[…]

Over the last few months, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), East Region Marine and SAVE units have been patrolling our lakes and rivers.  Unfortunately, several charges have been laid in relation to equipment, licences and operation.

Members of our Snowmobile, All Terrain, Vessel Enforcement (SAVE) unit advise that on too many occasions:
• Operators do not have enough life jackets on board. There is a $240 fine plus an additional $100 for each additional life jacket that is missing (per person). Life jackets can only save a life if it is on and is the appropriate size for each person on board the vessel. 
• Lights are not being utilized during reduced periods of visibility and at night time
• Boats are still being operated and underway with open alcohol on board without the proper vessel requirements (See Liquor Licence Act and Regulations)
• Operators are failing to have proof of competency with them on board their vessels

Boaters have been missing various pieces of mandatory equipment that must be on board while being operated. For a full list for your vessel, go to: http://www.tc.gc.ca/Publications

[…]

• Make sure you have your safety equipment
• Inspect your boat
• Monitor the weather
• Make and file an sail plan
• Carry and use official nautical charts
• Plan to avoid local hazards
• Fuel safely
• Be aware of carbon  monoxide dangers
• Load your boat properly
• Know the rules of the road and safety on the water
• Know the restrictions that apply to your craft and the area you are in
• Communicate efficiently in the case of an emergency
• Be prepared to react to an emergency.

“If you are on any type of vessel, please ensure you follow the rules and regulations as outlined in Transport Canada’s “SAFE BOATING GUIDE”. Knowing is surviving and it could save a life” – Inspector Paul Bedard, East Region Manager, Traffic and Marine.

In SD&G, our dedicated Marine Unit is in full force patrolling the St-Lawrence River ensuring the safety of boaters and aquatic activities. Please abide by the noted recommendations above and report any unsafe incidents to police.

[…]

Over the past Holiday Weekend, SD&G OPP officers conducting speed enforcement intercepted several vehicles for excessive speeds resulting in the impoundment of the noted vehicles and seizures of the driver’s permits.

– 27Jun14, 4:30pm – Highway 401, South Glengarry Township, 2014 Fiat clocked traveling 154km/h in a 100 km/h zone. 42 year old male from Caledon, Ontario charged.

– 28Jun14, 5:00pm – County Road 2, South Dundas Township, 2005 Yamaha motorcycle clocked traveling 136km/h in a 80 km/h zone. 25 year old male from North Grenville, Ontario charged.

– 29Jun14, 1:30pm – Highway 401, South Dundas Township, 2014 Volkswagen clocked traveling 155km/h in a 100 km/h zone. 21 year old male from Montreal, Quebec charged.

– 29Jun14, 2:15pm – Highway 401, South Glengarry Township, 2013 BMW clocked traveling 162km/h in a 100 km/h zone. 48 year old male from Toronto, Ontario charged.

– 29Jun14, 4:15pm – Highway 401, South Glengarry Township, BMW clocked traveling 152km/h in a 100 km/h zone. 46 year old male from Montreal, Quebec charged.

– 01Jul14, 11:00pm – Highway 401, South Dundas Township, 2012 Nissan clocked traveling 159km/h in a 100 km/h zone. 24 year old male from North York, Ontario charged.

 

[…]

 

Trustees with the Upper Canada District School Board have passed a $353 million operating budget for next year to support student needs and meet long-term objectives under its CREW Strategic Plan. 

Another $45.8 million has been earmarked for capital projects.

The budget was passed during Wednesday night’s regular Board meeting, said Chair Greg Pietersma.

“The biggest thing this budget does is ensure quality and consistency in our programming and operations,” said Pietersma. “It provides assurance for parents that schools will be open, math and science classes will run, driveways will be cleared, competition will take place on our sports fields and buses will be running.

“We’re also planning for two more quality schools in the Cornwall and Kemptville areas.”

Director David Thomas praised the budget saying it is reflective of good governance by the Board, citing the new Accountability Framework as a key factor in that good governance. 

He also noted changes in the budget reporting process which will see departments keep trustees better informed through the addition of quarterly status reports.

“The development of the Accountability Framework has had a very positive impact on our senior team,” said Thomas. “It has helped us to become more purposeful, focused, responsive and transparent in our operations and that is reflected in this budget.

“The creation of the yearly budget cycle and quarterly reporting process will allow us the opportunity to better serve the students and communities of Eastern Ontario.”

The operating funds the board will use come from the 2014-15 Grants for Student Needs issued by the Ministry of Education. 

 The largest portion of the board’s operating budget is for staff instructional salaries – for teachers, principals, para-professionals and others – comprising about $241 million. 

About $25 million goes to transportation, $34 million for school operations and maintenance, and $8.5 million for administration and governance.

Major capital expenses include: a project to fund construction of, and furnishing and equipping of, two new elementary schools in Cornwall and Kemptville, (scheduled to open in 2016); funding for school renewal; and improvements for the Full-Day Kindergarten program.

“I’m pleased to present a compliant budget that puts students first,” said Superintendent of Business Nancy Barkley. ”As the 2014-2015 school year unfolds, student learning will remain our priority and continue to drive our business decisions.”

“This budget reflects our philosophy that proper support for student learning is at the heart of everything we do,” added Pietersma. “We are funding new school projects, enhancing the instructional skills of our teachers, and funding special education programming – all the kinds of efforts that allow students to learn and thrive.”

Under the budget, Special Education gains $46 million in funding. About $19.4 million has been set aside for special education teachers, along with another $17.7 million for educational assistants and $1.2 million for new technologies to aid student learning.

Other department operating expenses include: Human Resources, $2.9 million; Director’s Office, $4.4 million; Information Technology Services, $5.4 million; Facilities, $90.3 million ($45.8 million for Design and Construction, and $44.5 million for Facilities Operations and Maintenance); and Program, $3.7 million.

 

[…]

 

The Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario’s Board of Trustees has approved an operating budget of $165.5 million and a capital budget of $10.6 million for the 2014-15 school year.

All expenditure areas were carefully reviewed for efficiencies and to ensure excellence in Catholic program delivery for students across Eastern Ontario.

Trustees approved the budget at the June 17 board meeting.

Brent Laton, Chair, commended the group.“This budget will help to ensure that the 2014-15 year will be another successful year,” he said. “On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I extend my sincere gratitude for the work done by Executive Council, and the Finance Department.”

 “The budget demonstrates that our staff continue to be dedicated to student success while remaining fiscally responsible with the Board’s financial resources,” said Director of Education Wm. J. Gartland. “I commend our staff for their dedication in serving the best interests of our students.”

Construction will continue on the $6.6 million, Ministry funded, capital priority project at Notre Dame Catholic High School in Carleton Place that will open in September 2015. The project includes a 12 classroom addition to replace portables.

The Board will also receive $1.7 million for School Renewal, and $2.2 million for School Condition Improvement, to help address the backlog of facility repairs and upgrades.

The 2014-2015 financial estimates allow the Board to continue to remain compliant with the provincially mandated primary class size requirement as well as the aggregate class size requirements mandated for full-day kindergarten.

[…]

June 28th will mark the official opening of the South Dundas Municipal Centre, located at 34 Ottawa Street, Morrisburg, and all are welcome, even encouraged, to attend.

The present building is well known in the area, having served as the Morrisburg Collegiate Institute for over 40 years. Now, it is renovated to meet the needs of the community.

“I feel that all South Dundas residents should come out and see what has been done to the ‘Old High School’ as it has been called for years,” said South Dundas mayor Steven Byvelds. “To take a historic building and transform it into a very useful asset that will be used by residents for many years, is quite an achievement in this day of tearing down old and replace with new that will never last as long as this building has.”

Ground breaking of the project began in 2012, and all tenants have now moved in as of May 2014.

“The services within this building are vital to the community,” said Mayor Byvelds. “They are now conveniently co-located and we look forward to showcasing what they have to offer.”  

Offices within the building include:

• St. Lawrence Medical Clinic (Main Floor)

• SDG County Library- Morrisburg Branch (Main Floor)

• Morrisburg Visitor Information Centre (Main Floor)

• South Dundas Municipal Offices (Second Floor)

• Council Chambers & Mayor’s Office (Third Floor)

• Recreation Programming Room (Third Floor)

Residents are invited to join local dignitaries and staff at 10 a.m. for the ribbon cutting ceremony, with tours and refreshments to follow.

“We hope all residents are able to join us on June 28th to celebrate the opening of this new facility,” added Mayor Byvelds.

The contract for the building renovation was $4.1 million, including contingency, which was needed for building alterations required for both the clinic and municipal space. Next month, council expects to receive a staff report finalizing the cost of the project, taking into account details such as project management costs.

When that report is received, council can move forward with setting up a 20 year loan to finance the project. Council, at budget time, set aside reserves to cover the first loan payment.

[…]