Launch of MV Family Health Team Marks Major Advance in Access to Local Healthcare

FREE INSIDE… The Current review its first year p.3 Heritage Photo: St. Joseph’s School p.7 Rescue drama on Siberia Road p.9 FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2019

Launch of MV Family Health Team marks major advance in access to local healthcare

Cutting the ribbon to mark the Grand Opening (from left): Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP John Yakabuski, MVFHT Board Chair Dr. Alex Atfield, MVFHT Lead Physician Dr. Jason Malinowski, BLR Mayor Sheldon Keller, MV Mayor Kim Love, KHR Mayor Janice Visneskie- Moore, Champlain LHIN Board Chair Jean-Pierre Boisclair (holding scissors), MVFHT Executive Director Susan Farrar, NAW Mayor James Brose, SA Mayor Jane Dumas, Champlain LHIN Sub-Region Director Kevin Barclay, MVFHT Office Administrator Rosa Etmanskie.

DANIELLE PAUL who told the crowd how far they had dar, because they came back to us a few MADAWASKA VALLEY come in the past year. He pointed out months later and said, ‘The projects we that the Madawaska Valley FHT is one have in mind didn’t pass muster with The patient waiting area at the St. of the first Family Health Teams (FHTs) the Ministry. We’ve looked at our data Francis Health Centre in Barry’s Bay created in Ontario since 2012. He said, again. We drilled down to the commu- was crowded on January 11, 2019 “We’re really lucky to be at the begin- nity level and it turns out you’re right with representatives of provincial and ning of, hopefully, a new wave of FHTs – you are in high need. Can we work to- municipal government, local and re- in Ontario. The fact that we were able gether?’ And I said, “Absolutely. I’ll drop gional healthcare providers, and other to do this is a sign of the modern times everything to help put this together.” stakeholders. They included MPP John that we live in. The Ministry of Health HOW THE MV FAMILY HEALTH TEAM Yakabuski, the mayors of the Town- and Long-Term Care in Ontario and the IMPACTS VALLEY RESIDENTS ships of Brudenell Lyndoch Raglan, Champlain Local Health Integration Farrar told The Current how MVFHT Killaloe-Hagarty-Richards, Madawaska Network (LHIN) were able to identify and in particular its two Nurse Practi- Valley, North Algona Wilberforce, and our particular community as being in tioners will improve access to health- South Algonquin. They had gathered need from the data they collect.” care for the community. Everyone who to celebrate the Grand Opening of the Dr. Atfield gave The Current more is presently registered with a physician Madawaska Valley Family Health Team background about how the funding at St. Francis Healthcare Centre can (MVFHT). for MVFHT came about through Inter- use the services of the FHT so this will The event began with MVFHT Execu- Professional Primary Care Funding free up more appointment times. And tive Director Susan Farrar introducing for Primary Care Teams. He described for those patients in the Valley who guests of honour and MVFHT staff. She how, initially, the Champlain LHIN don’t have family doctors, she had good announced that in anticipation of the had rejected his request. He respond- news, “We are going to be doing some launch, local physicians have already ed to them reinforcing the local need urgent care appointments for patients enrolled over 1,000 patients in the and saying, “Please keep us in mind.” that don’t have family doctors, starting past six months. She then introduced This had the desired effect. He said, “I MVFHT Board Chair Dr. Alex Atfield think that statement put us on the ra- Continued on page 2— www.madvalleycurrent.com 2 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT

L to R: Valley Manor CEO Trisha Sammon, Madawaska Valley Mayor Kim Love, South Algonquin Mayor Jane Dumas.

ners can interpret, treat and diagnose. They can refer to specialists, order and MV Family Health Team (from left): Stacie Wojick, Medical Receptionist; Tierney Lunney, read X-rays, etc. As well, MVFHT is ac- Nurse Practitioner; Craig O’Brien, Nurse Practitioner; Susan Farrar, Executive Director; tively recruiting for a social worker, di- Rosa Etmanskie, Office Administrator. etician and physiotherapist.

—Continued from page 1 little bit [of pressure] off the emergency THE FUTURE OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE IN THE VALLEY Monday, January 14. It will be limited department. [It’s for] things that are ur- access, same day appointments. We’ll gent but a little bit more minor … less Farrar said MVFHT will continue to have a few reserved for patients that than 48-hour onset; for example, if your expand its services as the team grows. don’t have family doctors. Anything ur- kid falls, sprains their ankle.” This includes education and program- gent like a cold, a sick child, it will take a Farrar explained that Nurse Practitio- ming. She said MVFHT eventually ex- pects to be able to help provide care to all patients in need in the local area. From a physician recruitment per- Telling Your Story Memoirs Course spective, South Algonquin Mayor Jane FEBRUARY 16, 23 and March 2 • 1:30 to 5 pm Dumas (who chairs the area Physician $35 for three Saturday afternoons Recruitment and Retention Commit- Capture your life’s journey through a faith lens tee, and also serves on the Board of St. with veteran writer and editor Murray MacAdam. Francis Memorial Hospital) said, “This is going to change the whole level of Register with the library by February 7. care in this community – which is awe- The Tartan Show: A Tribute to Robert Burns some. This is what physicians are look- JANUARY 26 • 2 pm ing for. The social service function is Performed by The Opeongo Readers’ Theatre. phenomenal – that’s such a huge part of well-being. I’m euphoric.” Opeongo Seniors Centre. Free admission. Her sentiments were echoed by [email protected] • 613-756-2000 Madawaska Valley Mayor Kim Love Follow us on Facebook who said, “It’s very exciting. It’s going to really help our doctors and it’s going to help us recruit more doctors. It’s taken a load off of Physician Recruitment because we were getting really worried. We were doing everything we could but [were] just not able to get the doctors no matter what we tried.” The MVFHT telephone number is 613-756-9888. Visit the MVFHT website www.madawaskavalleyfht.com to learn about hours, services and career 8629 Highway 60 • Eganville, ON • 613-628-3095 opportunities or see Madawaska Valley Family Health Team on Facebook. www.madvalleycurrent.com IMAGE:cake-with-can- dle2.jpg (Or I can give you a cake photo and you can fake a better birthday candle on it!!!!

2 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2019 | 3 The Current reviews its first year THE MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT ipal election year so it was understand- MADAWASKA VALLEY able that there would be a greater degree of public interest in campaign coverage. The beginning of a new year is an ap- Readers of The Current also demon- strate a thirst for stories about economic YOUR SOURCE FOR LOCAL INFORMATION propriate time to review the old one. in the Madawaska Valley and area January 2 also marked the first anniver- development, culture and heritage – as To list your event, business or organization well as community events and lifestyle. sary of The Current so it is also a good email [email protected]. time to give our readers an update. During 2018 The Current averaged Most listings are free. Because we are primarily an online 23,000 page views per month. Some arti- newspaper (or “blog” if you prefer!), we cles attracted as many as 1,900 views per have the advantage of being able to see day. We are pleased to report that our av- at any given time how many people are erage returning readership exceeds 2,300 BARRY’S BAY reading which particular article and in per month. To these numbers must be which geographic location. Our web- added the readership of our free monthly site statistics let us see what stories we print version. We distribute more than published that most captured our read- 750 print copies of The Current — from ers’ attention. Whitney to Eganville to Maynooth — in THE TOP TEN OF 2018 waiting rooms, multi-unit residences Emergency First Aid, In order of popularity, here are the top and shops. Like the online stories, each ten most-read stories on The Current’s month’s selection for print remains avail- CPR and website during 2018: able in PDF form on our website. Defibrillator Course • Municipal election “Town Hall” The Current aims to make some im- forum provements during 2019 so our first FEBRUARY 1 (time TBC) • MV Councillor subject of complaint print version of the year is arriving a 6-hr course $90 (3-yr certification) bit later in January. Watch out, too, for after outburst 3-hr course $40 (1-yr certification) • MV Township without CAO website changes to give our readers • MV is not a CAO-friendly more relevant content. Spaces are limited. environment Finally, a heartfelt thank you to our Pay in advance or on the day. • Announcement: Pot shop poll readers for making the first year of The • Township sued by former Integrity Current so successful. And as always we Reserve by email: Commissioner are extremely grateful to our talented [email protected], • Proposed condo development contributors who have provided such or phone/text 613-447-0599 includes Chippawa Lodge great reading material. • MV Mayor claims she has no role in the disciplining of council Municipal Accommodation Tax Information Session members • Confrontation continues at MV Tourism accommodators operating in Renfrew County are invited to an information session to learn more about the Municipal Accommodation Tax (Ontario Regulation 435/17 - committee meeting Transient Accommodation Tax, under the Municipal Act, 2001). • Porch Views: Who is a local? Diversity or division in the Effective December 1, 2017, the Province of Ontario granted municipalities the authority Madawaska Valley to implement a tax on transient accommodations of 30 days or less. The tax revenue All of these articles remain on our website generated, which must be shared between a municipality and an eligible tourism entity, and the Comments section which follows would support new and existing tourism development and marketing efforts in the region. every piece bears witness to the extent of Learn more about what this means for your business, municipality and tourism in Renfrew County. our readers’ engagement. The Top Ten Who should attend? list reveals that during the municipal * Owners/operators of traditional accommodation businesses, including: election year many of our readers used - Hotels & Motels - Bed & Breakfasts and Inns The Current’s online Town Hall forum to - Lodges & Resorts - Cottage Resorts & Cottage Rental Properties engage with those municipal candidates * Airbnb Hosts who participated. The forum alone at- Register for FREE at www.bit.ly/MAT_info to attend a session near you. tracted more than 150 online comments February 4, 2019 February 5, 2019 February 6, 2019 February 7, 2019 out of nearly 200 relating to the election Deep River Legion Killaloe Lion’s Hall Neat Coffee Shop Germania Club campaign. This is a significant propor- 50 Mcelligott Dr, 18 Lake St, 1715 Calabogie Rd, 15 Bennett St, tion of the 750-plus online comments Deep River Killaloe Burnstown Pembroke The Current received last year. But the Top Ten list doesn’t tell the Information sessions hosted by the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association whole story. 2018 was, after all, a munic- www.madvalleycurrent.com 4 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT

PORCH VIEWS Off the porch with Valley Adventure Tours

MARK WOERMKE BARRY’S BAY

On a snowy October 28 I got off the porch to take in some of the natural beauty of the Madawaska Valley. I had the pleasure of accompanying Steve Brunke of Valley Adventure Tours on his last ATV excursion of the season. Truth be told, it was my first experience driving an all-terrain vehicle, but Steve gave me a brief lesson and within a few minutes I was driving my own machine. It took a bit longer to feel confident and in-control, but after thirty minutes I was testing the shocks and enjoying the spray of mud when I hit potholes and crossed creeks. (See selfie.) According to Steve, that is a common response. He says, “Typically, people start off a little tentative as most of my clients have never been on an ATV or SxS, but within minutes of hit- ting the trail the smiles come out and don’t stop for the rest of the tour.” Top to bottom: Part of Steve Brunke’s Given the option of several routes, fleet of ATVs. Ice fishing with Valley I chose the old rail bed heading west Adventure Tours. Steve Brunke of Valley from the Barry’s Bay railway station to Adventure Tours along the trail. TOP PHOTOS: Opeongo Forks. This appealed to me STEVE BRUNKE. PHOTO RIGHT: MARK WOERMKE. personally and historically. Personally because my grandfather and uncles Aylen Lake Fault and a valley that was maintained that section of track as CNR once a glacial spillway draining into employees, and historically because Lake Shawaskong (the ancestor of Bark, Wilno, Barry’s Bay and Madawaska will Kamaniskeg and Papineau Lakes). The be celebrating the 125th anniversary flurries could not diminish that. With of the arrival of railway between 2019 that panorama as a backdrop, Steve and 2020. Most importantly, however, and I had a chance to talk about his the whole point of my trip was to learn business. about Steve’s new and growing busi- Steve is no stranger to the Madawas- ness which is drawing first-time and ka Valley. Since the age of ten, he has repeat visitors to the Madawaska Valley. spent many weekends and most vaca- tion in the world.” In his research, he I met Steve near the caboose and we tions at a family cottage on Lake Ka- also noticed a significant change in set out past the Railway Station, along maniskeg. He lived here between 2002 the types of visitors coming to this area Kelly Street and picked up the trail after and 2007. He wanted to live here again, over the last ten years. He says, “I think crossing Paugh Lake Road. We passed but knew he needed a plan. So, he cre- the work the snowmobile clubs and the site of Murray’s old planer, Cybul- ated a business based on two things the Renfrew County ATV Club have ski’s farm and Martin Siding. West of that he loves – nature and ATVing. been doing with the fantastic condi- Carson Lake, we left the old rail bed Steve considers the Madawaska Val- tioning of the trail systems has started and took a trail to our first stop – the ley to have “some of the best ATV trails to put this area on the map as a pre- remarkable lookout at the top of Bur- anywhere” and he believes the region mier wilderness playground for ATVs nett’s Mountain. There, we spent a few is “blessed with an abundance of for- and snowmobiles.” moments appreciating the view of the ests, lakes and rivers to rival any loca- In January 2018, he said goodbye to www.madvalleycurrent.com 4 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2019 | 5

his seven-year job as assistant superin- He was quick to respond, “I see eco- experiences that take them out of their tendent of Camelot Golf and Country tourism as being the future of the Valley comfort zones and push their ideas of Club in Ottawa and brought his family and I believe this place must be mar- what they are capable.” to the Madawaska Valley to begin their keted on a global scale. It’s great to have I was experiencing just that. I was new adventure. a presence at local trade shows, but, in having a great time, feeling confident, We left the lookout, returned to the my experience, online marketing is the pushing the ATV harder and swallow- rail bed and continued west to our des- key. Our proximity to Algonquin Park, ing some mud and swamp water. I had tination: the poplar grove and clearing Ottawa, Toronto and Montreal make us a great time. above the Opeongo River just south of a hub for tourists coming from around When we got back to town, Steve’s where the trail crosses the Aylen Lake the world.” parting words were, “My clients con- Road. Usually called Opeongo Forks By then the sky was getting dark and, stantly tell me how lucky I am to live in because the Aylen and Opeongo Riv- not knowing if it were bringing rain or the Madawaska Valley – I couldn’t agree ers join nearby, it was also identified on snow, we decided to head straight back with them more.” And I agree with maps as Opeongo Station since there to the Bay. As I drove I thought about Steve: we are fortunate to live in an area was a station and section crew located Steve’s words, “People just want unique with such beauty and such potential. there. In the early twentieth century it was also the site of Daly’s Sawmill. We stopped to admire the scenery and look at the mill’s remains. Steve Advertising helps us says his visitors find the remains of provide The Current to settlement and industry along the lo- readers at no cost. cal trails interesting, but they are blown To advertise please call away by the gorgeous views. This stop 613.639.1524. was another opportunity to chat about Valley Adventure Tours. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR In his first season Steve had clients We welcome letters to the editor. Send letters to lettersmadvalleycurrent@gmail. from the United Kingdom, Germany, com or The Madawaska Valley Current, PO Box 1097, Barry’s Bay, ON, K0J 1B0. Please include your first and last name, address and phone number for verification the Netherlands, the Philippines, Is- (these will not appear in print; your name and municipality will). Please provide rael and Turkey, as well as many parts the title and date if you refer to an article in The Current. of the United States and Canada. Steve If you are responding to an online article in The Current, please note that you particularly remembered the reactions can comment in the “Reply” box following the article. We monitor all comments to of two groups from the Netherlands, ensure these guidelines are followed. Due to volume, we cannot print every letter “They could not believe that we live in or respond to individual letters. Please keep your letter short, preferably 200 words such an amazing place. My wife made or fewer. Be civil, even if you are writing to disagree with someone. We look forward a comment to them that Holland must to hearing your voice. be beautiful as well. They just looked The Madawaska Valley Current provides balanced and stimulating local cov- at her and said, ‘Nothing like this … erage of community growth, current affairs and cultural matters in the area. The not even close.’ Makes you realize on a Current is your year-round online community news source, with limited print dis- global scale how fortunate we are to live tribution available monthly in Barry’s Bay at Bayberry Design, Madawaska Cof- here and what we can offer to visitors fee, Madawaska Valley Public Library, Opeongo Seniors Centre; in Combermere at from around the world.” Heartwood Restaurant, The Old School Café, Laundry & Greenhouses; in Wilno at Steve offers visitors memorable trips Wilno Craft Gallery, Wilno Tavern. You can visit www.madvalleycurrent.com and that are tailored to the needs and in- download this month’s issue to print copies for your friends and family. terests of his clients and which show The Current is published by MadValley Media, Barry’s Bay, Ontario, K0J 1B0. off the natural beauty of the Mada- Opinions and information published in The Current, in whatever form, do not waska Valley. In the summer season, he necessarily reflect the opinion of The Current. All the writing, artwork, and pho- planned trips on a variety of trails for tographs published in The Current are the copyright of the author or artist or The individuals or groups which could in- Current in the case where no author is specified. clude picnic stops, snacks and stops for The Madawaska Valley Current www.facebook.com/madvalleycurrent swimming or photography. PO Box 1097, Barry’s Bay ON, K0J 1B0 For the winter months Steve is of- T: 613.639.1524 www.instagram.com/madvalleycurrent fering visitors guided ice fishing tours E: [email protected] where he will provide transportation W: www.madvalleycurrent.com twitter.com/mvalleycurrent and supply all the gear to take people PERMITTED USE out in all conditions including heated You may display, download or print the information on the site for your own internal and non-commercial purposes provided that you observe all copyright and other propriety notices contained on such shelters, rods, tip-ups and bait. information. You may not, however, use, display, distribute, modify or transmit any information includ- Overlooking the rusty turbines of the ing any text, images, audio or video for commercial or public purposes without the express prior written old sawmill, I sought Steve’s view of the permission of its owner. You must not transfer the information to any other person unless you give them notice of, and they agree to accept, these same obligations. Madawaska Valley’s economic future. Printed by Bayberry Design, Barry’s Bay, Ontario

www.madvalleycurrent.com 6 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT 1st Barry’s Bay Girl Guides engage with community

The Legion presentation to the 1st Barry’s Bay Guides Unit. PHOTO: SUBMITTED

DANIELLE PAUL ceremonies. Before Christmas the Unit minimal cost per girl as the unit cov- BARRY’S BAY walked through town to go caroling at ered more than half the expense. the Golden Age Chateau, at the Ope- Brown Owl Pecarski said, “We are The 1st Barry’s Bay Sparks, Brownies, ongo Seniors’ Centre where cards were very thankful to the community for all Guides, Pathfinder, Ranger Unit is in its being played, and at Water Tower lodge the support they have given to us in the third year of operation in the Madawas- where the girls were able to do a craft past three years. The Barry’s Bay Legion ka Valley. The Barry’s Bay Legion recent- and enjoy a snack of hot chocolate and Branch 406 and the Ladies Auxiliary has ly donated $1,200 to the Unit. (Above: cookies. always been a supporter of our unit and The Legion presentation to the 1st Bar- Other activities so far have included for that we are thankful.” ry’s Bay Guides Unit. Photo submitted.) a camp out at no cost to the girls be- For more information visit 1st Barry’s Brown Owl Stacie Pecarski recently told cause of all the cookie selling they did. Bay Spark/Brownie/Guide/Pathfinder/ The Current that this year there are 21 They also went horseback riding at a Ranger Unit on Facebook. girls registered in the Unit at levels from Sparks to Ranger. She said, “With this very generous donation we are hoping to be able to take our guiding unit to CBC interviews Shulist possibly go dog sledding, swimming, THE CURRENT | OTTAWA skating and camping again this spring. MV Councillor David Shulist was recent- Most weeks the girls also do badgework ly interviewed on CBC Radio’s Saturday and sometimes we need to buy crafting morning program In Town and Out. CBC supplies so this donation will also help producer Jessa Runciman interviewed us with that.” Shulist about his book Discovering The Unit meets regularly – usually Kashubia Europe, the Fatherland of my in the gym or library at St. John Bosco Kashubian ancestors. School – and parents follow the sched- In his book which was published ule on a Unit calendar or check the in 2018, Shulist tells the story of the Unit’s Facebook page. The Unit has en- Kashub people who settled in the joyed nature hikes up to the Barry’s Bay Madawaska Valley. water tower and hikes through the bush Shulist, who is often known locally around St. John Bosco School. as “Johnny Kashub” in recognition of The Unit participated in Remem- his enthusiastic promotion of Kashu- David Shulist in the studio with CBC brance Day ceremonies at the Barry’s bian heritage, said, “I was honoured Producer Jessa Runciman, holding Bay Legion, placing a wreath on behalf to promote our local Kashubian heri- traditional Kashubian embroidery. of the Youth of Canada. The girls also PHOTO SUBMITTED tage. Going national feels great.” participated in their individual school www.madvalleycurrent.com 6 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2019 | 7

EDITORIAL Making the case for public transit THE CURRENT Council’s refusal to licence a local erating Rural Transportation Solutions. taxi service. The introduction to the report included At the November 19 MV Council • 2016–17 Township of Madawaska the following statement, “This [trans- meeting, students from St. John Bosco Valley Age-Friendly Community port options] is a persistent issue and School presented Council with a list Strategic Plan This was cited as a given the aging demographic of rural of proposals. Among these was a re- major concern. Ontario, the need for affordable and quest for a public transit system. The accessible transportation services will Transportation barriers was also iden- absence of a transit system has been increase in the future. The assumption tified as a challenge in a press release questioned in the following studies/ that social, economic and health needs from the Ontario Ministry of Children, reports: can be met solely by private cars and Community and Social Services dated volunteer programs is becoming in- • 2014–15: Among residents’ December 14, 2018 called Ontario im- creasingly untenable.” main reasons for poor rating of proving rural services for women escap- The report went on to provide in- MV transportation services in ing violence and sexual exploitation. depth case studies of ten Ontario mu- Madawaska Valley – The Path Perhaps it is time for Council to take a nicipalities who operate public transit Forward 2015–2019 Strategic Plan. close look at this issue by carrying out a systems, one of which was the TROUT • 2015: In the conclusions from the feasibility study. system based in Bancroft. It noted that Final Report of Culture Summit held RURAL ONTARIO INSTITUTE REPORT each of the municipalities received in Madawaska Valley. In 2014 the Rural Ontario Institute funding, either directly or indirectly, • 2015–16: The fallout over MV (ROI) published a report entitled Accel- Continued on page 8—

VALLEY HERITAGE St. Joseph’s School 1952–53

BOB CORRIGAN Burchat, Rosanne Golka, Joseph Matusheskie, Jerome Golka, BARRY’S BAY Ronald Mintha, Michael Ritza. THIRD ROW: Ethel Rumleskie, Teresa Yantha, Charlotte This picture was taken during the school year 1952–53 and Voldock, Cecilia Coulas, Patricia Corrigan, Martha Lucka- it’s the grade four class. Please let the readership know if you vitch, Sister Mary Alice, Shirley Dudack, Dorothy Luckavitch, spot an error and can make a correction. Alice Golka, Joan Shushack, Jacqueline Cybulskie, Marianne FRONT ROW: Bobby Crawford, Arthur Peplinskie, Roy Ku- Glofcheskie, Hedwig Villeneuve. las, Tony Yantha, Leonard Stoppa, Ronald Chippior, Jimmy NOTE: If you are interested in having a picture and story Shulist, David Biernaskie, Kenneth Kovalskie, Denzil Matush- featured in The Madawaska Valley Current, please submit eskie. the information to Bob Corrigan at The Current, PO Box SECOND ROW: Gerald Yantha, Rene Villeneuve, Robert 1097, Barry’s Bay K0J 1B0 (marked Heritage Photos). Origi- Cybulskie, Kenneth Kubusheskie, Ursula Chaperskie, Doreen nals will be returned.

www.madvalleycurrent.com 8 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT

—Continued from page 7 from one or more municipal levels of government. “All but one of the programs also received assistance from the Provincial Gas Tax Fund.” This fund, which should not be confused with the Federal Gas Tax Fund, limits payments to those municipalities who have a public transit system. LACK OF FAIRNESS IDENTIFIED The ROI Report also highlights the in- herent unfairness of municipal expenditures that benefit only car-owning residents. “We all pay property taxes either directly through home ownership or indirectly as renters. These taxes pay for all municipal services including roads. Since auto ownership is a surrogate of income, it means that the lower income resident who cannot afford a car is pay- ing taxes to support a higher income resident who owns a car. Yet if there is no transit service, then the higher income resident does not support the lower income resident through the taxes needed to support a good level of transit service; herein lies the unfairness.” Recently MV Council has argu- ably piled unfairness upon unfairness through the way it has spent payments from the Federal Gas Tax Rebate Fund. Over the term of the last Council, the sum of $520,000 was received from the Fund. Yet despite the fact that it can be used for any of eighteen categories of infrastructure expenditure, every cent Dreaming of public transportation in Madawaska Valley, imagined above. Transportation has been spent on only one, namely, barriers have been identified as a challenge to improving rural services for women roads. Nothing from this Rebate has escaping violence and sexual exploitation. been used, for example, for public transit, infrastructure for culture, tourism, system would immediately entitle the Fund assisted Clearview in the success- wastewater, broadband and connectiv- Township to receive more free money ful launch of the Township’s first transit ity, and others. from the Provincial Gas Tax Fund. Oth- system. The current route only serves a As of November 2018 the sum of er sources of grant funding may also be community of 4,500 residents, but rid- $3.86 million has been spent this year available. In addition to this, income ership has grown to a consistent level of by MV for “transportation services;” from fares would generate revenue. As over 1,000 riders per month. Investing that is to say, roads. Of that sum, con- well, perhaps consideration should be in transit with assistance of the Federal struction work alone accounts for $2.15 given to paring down the road mainte- Gas Tax Fund will allow the municipal- million, not including materials and nance budget with a view to reallocat- ity to enhance the service over time as supplies. Residents who have contrib- ing some of those savings to a transit our community continues to grow.” uted to this expenditure through their system. MV Township CAO/Clerk Sue Klatt tax dollars but do not benefit because Consider the example of the Town- has advised The Current that there are they cannot themselves drive along the ship of Clearview. In August of this currently no public transport initia- roads are entitled to feel shortchanged. year the Association of Municipalities tives under consideration. Recognizing FUNDING A TRANSIT SYSTEM of Ontario (AMO) issued a commen- that MV demographics confirm that it In the coming year MV will receive an- dation to Clearview for successfully has one of the highest proportions of other $136,000 from the Federal Gas taking the public transit plunge. In re- elderly residents in the province, per- Tax Rebate Plan. Providing a transit sponse, Clearview Mayor Christopher haps the new Council will see fit to take Vanderkruys said, “The Federal Gas Tax a hard look at this issue. www.madvalleycurrent.com 8 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2019 | 9 MV adopts committee of the whole structure Tuesday January 8 marked the first shown below, along with the member ed at 4:15 p.m. with a short morning time MV Council met as a committee of Council responsible. All members break and a break for lunch. of the whole under its new Procedural of Council sit on each committee. If By-Law 2018-117 passed December the committee representative is absent PUBLIC INPUT 20. Readers will recall that Mayor Love (e.g. Councillor Shulist was away on Materials from Standing Committees in her inaugural address at the Dec. 3 January 8), the Mayor or another mem- and delegation request forms must be Council meeting said MV would adopt ber of Council acts as chair for that part submitted no later than 12 p.m. on the this format in the interests of efficiency of the meeting. Wednesday prior to the meeting. Under and cost-savings. The concept means • Operations (Roads and Waste the new Procedural By-Law up to four that all members of Council attend a Management) – Councillor Bromwich delegations are allowed at meetings of single day of Committee meetings on • Operations (Water/Wastewater & either Council in Committee or Regular the first Tuesday of the month starting Facilities) – Councillor Shulist Council, so in theory the public could at 10 a.m. The recommendations from • Fire, Protection and Emergency have input up to eight times per month. the Council in Committee meeting will Management – Councillor Peplinski Previously up to three delegations had be brought forward at a Regular Coun- • Recreation Community been allowed at each of the seven Com- cil meeting on the third Tuesday of the Development – Councillor Willmer mittee or Regular Council meetings af- month starting at 4 p.m. CAO/Clerk Sue • Committee of Adjustment – Mayor fording the public a chance to appear Klatt says the new format is still a work Love before Council up to a theoretical max- in progress as members of Council, • Finance and Administration – Mayor imum of 27 times per month. Also on Township staff and Community Com- Love the subject of public input, there is no mittees all need to become accustomed The Council in Committee Agenda in- provision in the Procedural By-Law for to the procedure. cludes materials for all committees. a Public Question Period at meetings Council in Committee format – first This meant the Agenda on Jan. 8 was unlike the previous Procedural By-Law. Tuesday of the month at 10 a.m. 355 pages long. The public portion of It appears that the new Council has re- Standing Committees of Council are the meeting began at 10 a.m. and end- moved this entitlement.

Rescue drama on Siberia Road

BOB CORRIGAN BARRY’S BAY

Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) personnel from Pembroke visited Barry’s Bay during the week of December 10 following reports of an orphaned bear cub, but were unable to locate the animal at that time. Most bears in our area are in hibernation by now so the cub’s mother must have died or been killed by a hunter and it didn’t know how to carry on. On Wednes- day December 19 the MNRF men were on their way to Combermere on a different project. As they drove down Siberia Road past the hospital, they saw a few people standing around looking at something just across from Biernacki Mountain Road. Lo and behold, up in a tree be to release the young bear within 100 kilometres of was the bear cub that they had looked for in vain the where it had been picked up. previous week. Then began what looked like a game as the confused Fortunately, they had thrown the appropriate equip- cub would travel down the tree, then up the tree, and back ment into their truck just in case. They parked nearby down again without going anywhere near the ground. Af- and waited at the bottom of the tree with what looked ter a considerable amount of time, the men retreated to like a large fishing net, a pole snare and a cage. They told the truck to give the cub a chance to relax a bit before re- me that their plan was to capture the bear and take it to newing their efforts. I left at this point but when I returned an animal shelter in Parry Sound where it would spend half an hour later, the men and the bear were gone. the rest of the winter. In the spring the MNR crew would No doubt, they were taking it to its winter home at the retrieve it from the shelter and their instructions would animal shelter.

www.madvalleycurrent.com 10 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT Report of MV Council in Committee meeting January 8

Committee in Council hears from OCWA representative. From left: Hilary Kutchkoskie (Operations Manager), Carl Bromwich, Mark Willmer, Kim Love, Sue Klatt, Ashley Pilgrim (OCWA), Ernie Peplinski.

DANIELLE PAUL OPERATIONS (ROADS) Canada dated November 20, 2018. MADAWASKA VALLEY The Operations Committee (Roads) The warning cited a failed acute recommendations included: fish lethality test conducted last Madawaska Valley considered the fol- • Council in Committee (CiC) directed February on an effluent sample lowing items during its first day-long Township staff to prepare a Request collected on January 31, 2018 at the meeting as a Committee of the Whole For Proposal (RFP) to obtain an Barry’s Bay Wastewater Treatment held on January 8, 2019. independent consultant’s review of system. Ashley Pilgrim and Scott the 5-Year Capital Roads and Asset Stewart, two representatives DECLARATIONS Management Plan (the existing plan from the plant which is operated The meeting began with the familiar ended in 2018) and to investigate by Ontario Clean Water Agency call for Declarations of Pecuniary In- available funding to offset some of (OCWA), explained how the issue terest and on this occasion there were these costs. arose and corrective measures. responses. Councillors Willmer and • After discussing the existing 80 kph Briefly, a sludge blanket in the ISAM Peplinski each declared an interest speed limit on Old Barry’s Bay Road tank contributed to higher out- (Willmer on a discussion of funding for in light of four options proposed by going levels of ammonia than were private roads and Peplinski on a dis- an engineering company to bring present in the intake of raw sewage. cussion of an Ohio Road complaint) so the road into compliance, staff In response to a question from each of them was absent during the rel- was directed to bring back more Councillor Willmer about water evant discussion. information on the implications, quality in Kamaniskeg Lake, OCWA SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING TO costs sand requirements to consider personnel assured CiC that this DISCUSS CANNABIS RETAILING IN MV a reduction in speed limit to 60 kph was a one-time situation, tests are Council accepted CAO Klatt’s rec- or leave it at 80 kph. conducted regularly and the water ommendation to schedule a Special • CiC wants Grants for Private remains compliant with the strict Council meeting as soon as possible Roads to be considered at budget regulations they have on effluent to discuss and decide whether MV in the recommended amount of quality. should opt in or opt out of private $18,000; the same formula to be • CiC reviewed an inspection cannabis retailing. This Special Coun- applied should a lower amount report and supporting cil meeting will take place at 6 p.m. on be budgeted. Having declared an documentation from the Ministry Monday, January 21. When The Cur- interest because he lives on one of the Environment regarding an rent asked CAO Klatt if there would of the private roads, Councillor unannounced focused inspection be an opportunity for public submis- Willmer was not present for this performed at the Barry’s Bay sions, she said that Council has the discussion. Drinking Water System on option to ask for public input. The November 28, 2018. The report OPERATIONS (WATER/ states: “There were no ‘Summary deadline for MV to notify the Province WASTEWATER) of its decision is midnight on Jan.22, of Recommendations and Best • CiC discussed a warning from the day after the meeting. Practice Issues’ identified in the the Ministry of Environment inspection.” www.madvalleycurrent.com 10 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2019 | 11

BY-LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER REPORTS ON OHIO ROAD DISPUTE By-Law Enforcement Officer Corwin Quade’s report on an Ohio Road complaint was discussed. Mayor Love as- sumed the chair for this discussion as SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT Councillor Peplinski withdrew, hav- Website Design ing declared a conflict of interest. The Google My Business Listings Help complaint followed events reported Social Media Training previously in The Current concerning Call Travis Richards 613-281-9419 a disagreement over a Shoreline Road Facebook.com/TravisRichOffice Allowance (SRA). In response to a subsequent complaint, MV staff visited the site and V & J Shulist warned one of the property owners to INCOME TAX SERVICE cease working on the unowned shoreline. A follow-up visit revealed that First in income tax preparation the request had been ignored. Staff First in electronic ﬁ ling (Eﬁ le) confirmed that the property owner Welcoming new and returning clients had previously applied to purchase the SRA and that the Chief Building Penny Shulist • 613-756-2419 Officer said no building permit was 153 Wilowski Drive Chief Fire Officer Corwin Quade appears required for the work done. BARRY’S BAY before Council in Committee. CAO Klatt said staff would appreci- ate having a clear policy where residents ignore cease and desist orders FIRE, PROTECTION & EMERGENCY from the By-Law Enforcement Officer. • Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Corwin Instead CiC directed staff to investi- Quade reported that MV Fire gate and report on the status of the Department personnel have no SRA purchase applications. CAO Klatt working radios at this time. Some stated that she would report on costs, Family Dining staff have radios that do not work including site visits, of issuing cease Historic Polish Pub and in any event those leases expire and desist orders. • OPEN TUESDAY to SUNDAY • this month. Various options for wilnotavern.com replacement radios were discussed PLANNING MATTERS – BY-LAWS 613-756-2029 and staff was directed to acquire As recommended by MV Planning Of- some units for test purposes before ficer Silas Lorbetski, CiC passed sev- acquiring sufficient handsets for all eral By-Laws including By-Law 2019-03 personnel. Subdivision Agreement for Little Bark • CFO Quade told CiC that Fire Bay Properties. Department communications FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION are further complicated because County has not yet finalized its 911 • The Acting Treasurer Amanda dispatch protocol. He said some Fire Hudder presented a Statement Chiefs in the region are resolving the of Revenues & Expenditures. CiC issue by obtaining dispatch services deferred discussion of the detail from providers as far away as North and directed that a Budget Working Bay. Mayor Love said she would Group be established to meet in seek more information on the issue early February. from County. • The Acting Treasurer reported on • CiC discussed replacement of the the 2017 Financial Indicator Review Rescue Truck in the South Hall as it (FIR) Report from the Ministry of is beyond its useful life and funds Municipal Affairs. The FIR Report had been set aside for this purpose. highlighted the level of tax arrears as They approved CFO Quade, with being a concern saying it is the one the Township licensed mechanic indicator for MV that exceeds “low” and Deputy Chief, to conduct a risk. She reported that the Acting mechanical review of a proposed Deputy Treasurer is actively working vehicle for purchase located in on the tax arrears files to bring tax Ottawa. rolls up to date. www.madvalleycurrent.com 12 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT Opeongo Hills Nordic Club to host fifth annual loppet THE CURRENT MADAWASKA VALLEY

The fifth annual Opeongo Classic Loppet is scheduled for Saturday, January 26 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Event host Opeongo Hills Nordic Ski Club calls on all members, friends, family and any other person willing to volunteer their time and help make this happen. Loppet coordinator Peter Cru- chet says the event requires a total of at least 30 volunteers and provides this list of the approximate numbers of volunteers required per task: • Parking, welcome, info (3): control parking, greet participants, direct to registration • Registration (3): register walk-in skiers, hand out race bibs and race info • Course marshals (12): position on course to direct skier • On trail nutrition station (2): organize and hand out drinks to racers (will be near finish line) • Post event food table (2): serve chilli, buns, dessert and drinks to all participants • Start/finish officials (6): organize and control start, time and record skiers at finish line • Results/awards (2): tabulate times and determine finish order for each skier category • Jack of all trades (2):solve all minor problems for skiers To volunteer, please contact Peter Cruchet: 613-334-0980 • [email protected] Would you rather ski instead of volunteering? Register on- Competitors in previous Opeongo Classic Loppet. line at www.zone4.ca (input Opeongo) as a competitor in the PHOTO: CHRIS HINSPERGER, BONNECHERE CAVES Opeongo Classic Loppet.

contribute to a worthwhile com- Wilno Rink fundraising events munity cause. OPP/SCHOOLS BROOMBALL TOURNAMENT Thursday, January 31: At press time kids from St. Andrews, Killaloe PS, St. Michaels, Palmer Rapids PS, St. PHOTO: SHARON GARDINER James, St. John Bosco, George Vani- er are expected to take on the OPP players in what is sure to be a fun- filled tournament. WILNO WINTER CLASSIC BROOMBALL TOURNAMENT THE CURRENT | WILNO Saturday, February 2, 10 a.m.: Why should kids have all the fun? This day is reserved for the Hats off to the Wilno Recreation Committee for pulling out adults to grab some brooms and get into serious good times. the stops to finish and pay for the brand new community rink – and you’re invited to participate in a series of fund- HATS, CALENDARS AND SEASON PASSES raising events: Wilno rink hats are $16 each and 2019 fundraising calendars cost $15. You can also get a Season Usage pass to GRAND OPENING DANCE the rink at $20 Single/year or $35 Family/year. For more Saturday, January 26 from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. You’ll get details call Con Bersan 613-639-9816 or Joanne Plebon to see the beautiful new building, have a lot of fun and 613-756-1407.