Innisfil Scope

Councillors take another look at branding strategy

By Chris Simon — 11/26/2008

Almost one year after the process began, Innisfil council could be going back to the drawing board for a new town logo. And that new sketch could have input from the public. An Innisfil committee approved a plan to establish an adhoc committee to oversee a publicly solicited logo submission, during a meeting last week.

A romp through the rec centre

By Chris Simon — 11/26/2008

Teresa Brennan made the grand opening of the Innisfil Recreation Complex a family affair. The Innisfil resident brought her three children, Jaxon, Matt and Kerry, to the complex Friday evening, to watch an Innisfil Lakers hockey game, eat a slice of cake and try out equipment at the $29 million site.

Election sign bylaw debate resumes tonight

By Chris Simon — 11/26/2008

A bylaw aimed at reducing the number of election signs posted within the municipality will only impede democracy, according to a local resident and former political campaign advisor.

Dog camp proposed to Essa Township council

By Richard Blanchard — 11/26/2008

Essa Township council and staff will review a proposed dog camp planned for a property on County Road 56 in the coming weeks. Council heard from Glen Kowarsky, who currently operates Dogs At Camp in the Uxbridge area and is proposing to open a similar operation at 7750 County Road 56.

Save lives by giving 'red' during the holidays

11/26/2008

During this season of giving, Canadian Blood Services is encouraging residents to give the gift that can save a life by donating blood. 'Because giving blood is the most precious gift' is the theme of Canadian Blood Services 2008 holiday campaign reminding Canadians of what each blood donation means to patients across the country — the gift is priceless.

Town plans DC meeting

11/26/2008

A public meeting to review the Town of Innisfil's development charge bylaw will take place Dec. 3. The meeting will take place at the New Town Hall, beginning at 7 p.m. The meeting was orignally scheduled for last week, but updates to the town's development charge background study caused the delay.

Be prepared before a holiday pet purchase

By Chris Simon — 11/26/2008

Most children want cuddly little puppies and kittens for Christmas, but few parents realize the expense involved, according to a local veterinarian. As the holiday season approaches, the temptation to purchase a new family pet grows for many local residents. While wellmeaning, parents often fail to understand exactly how expensive a new pet can be.

Public PD Day planned Friday

11/26/2008

On Friday November 28, Simcoe County District School Board elementary teachers will be participating in a Professional Development Day. This PD Day is allocated to teachers and administrators to conference with parents. Schools have also scheduled student-led conferences to share the progress of each student throughout the first term.

Building boom for Essa

By Richard Blanchard — 11/26/2008

Essa Township has seen a flurry of building permits issued over the past couple of months, council learned last week. Manager of planning Colleen Healey said, by the end of October, the township had issued 174 building permits compared to 139 for the same period in 2007.

Cell tower gets support

By Richard Blanchard — 11/26/2008

Essa council has given its support to a new cellular tower proposed by Bell Mobility on the township's 6th Line. Council passed a motion of support for the tower, to be located at 5264 6th Line, west of the hamlet of Egbert, last week.

Craft workshop planned

11/26/2008

A meeting of the Simcoe County Arts and Crafts Association will be held on Monday December 1 at 1 p.m., at the Simcoe County Museum. Speaker Gladys Fieldhouse will lead a paper angel ornament workshop. Everyone is welcome to attend, so feel free to bring a friend. The cost is $7 each, and includes teaching, materials and refreshments.

Nearly $11 million in projects passed

By Chris Simon — 11/26/2008

After approving nearly $8.7 million in roads projects early this month, Innisfil council passed the remainder of its 2009 Capital Budget last week. In total, about $10.9 million will be allocated towards various non-roads related capital projects within the municipality next year. The approval means a .45 per cent property tax increase for town residents.

A breakdown of the budget

11/26/2008

Here is a list of some of the projects that received approval in the 2009 Capital Budget: Roads and Related Services • Innisfil Beach Road reconstruction and urbanization, $6 million • Work on the 6th Line between County Road 4 and the 10th Sideroad, $425,

Town targets substance abuse

By Chris Simon — 11/26/2008

The Town of Innisfil does not have policies in place to specifically deal with substance abuse and inappropriate workplace behaviour, yet, according to the municipality's human resource manager. An Innisfil committee passed progressive discipline and substance abuse policies during a meeting last week.

Teaching children to do their chores

11/26/2008

Is it time for your child to begin doing a few chores around the house? Responsibility for regular chores helps children learn self-discipline, apply themselves to a job and run the household. Find out the key steps to encouraging your child to do chores by calling Your Health Connection at 721-7520.

Library provides serveral government services to town residents

By Susan Baues Innisfil Public Library — 11/26/2008

The Innisfil Public Library and ServiceOntario are helping to make it easier for town residents to access a wide range of provincial government information and services. All Ontarians want convenient and integrated service from government.

County may rename bypass

By Richard Blanchard — 11/26/2008

Simcoe County has taken the first step to renaming the new bypass between Highway 89 and the Tottenham Road as Industrial Parkway. The county's corporate services committee gave its approval to the change in the name at a recent meeting.

Library expansion approved

By Richard Blanchard — 11/26/2008

Essa council has given its approval to enlarging the square footage of the new proposed library in Angus, in order to make it more attractive for the latest round of provincial infrastructure funding.

Manufacturing forum in Bradford Thursday

11/26/2008

The Bradford West Gwillimbury Office of Economic Development and Nottawasaga Futures are coordinating a South Simcoe Manufacturing and Exporting Forum on Thursday November 27th, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Council looks at intersection safety

By Chris Simon — 11/26/2008

Nearly one week after a fatal collision at the 9th Line and 20th Sideroad intersection, Innisfil council has agreed to look into the feasibility of increasing traffic safety measures in the area.

County passes 3.4 per cent tax increase

11/26/2008

Yesterday, Simcoe County council approved their 2009 Budget, which focuses on providing residents with essential services, investing in needed capital infrastructure and meeting the challenges this region faces due to growth.

Organic collection targets being reached

11/26/2008

County of Simcoe residents are quickly catching onto the region's new organics collection program, putting green bins at the curb and diverting approximately 36 tons of organic waste from landfill sites each day. "We are extremely pleased with initial results confirming county residents want to do more for the environment," said warden Tony Guergis.

Essa residents can adopt parks

By Richard Blanchard — 11/26/2008

Essa council has given final approval to the procedure which will allow township residents to adopt a municipal park. The project will allow local residents to assist in spring and fall clean-ups of their local park. The township will supply garbage bags and pay for the disposal of any garbage collected.

Comment

by Chris Simon editor@innisfilscope.com — 11/26/2008

It's easy to see both sides of the election sign debate. Tonight, Innisfil council will vote on a bylaw which, if passed, will regulate the number of election signs allowed within the municipality during municipal, provincial and federal campaigns. Under the plan, candidates would be prohibited from placing signs on town-owned property.

A political point of view

By Tony Guergis, Warden, County of Simcoe — 11/26/2008

As 2009 approaches, Simcoe County council is thinking ahead to the new year with a new annual budget and an updated longterm business plan that will manage fiscal needs over the next decade. Planning, budgeting and measuring results are the foundations of the county's strategic objectives and long-term business plan.

Early Years Centre has positive benefits

11/26/2008

I attended the rally in support of the Stroud Ontario Early Years Centre which is slated to close it's doors permanently Nov. 30th, due to a lack of provincial government funding.

Figuring out a way to increase voter turnout

11/26/2008

Many people are upset that less than 60 per cent of eligible Canadians voted in the recent election. Unfortunately, Innisfil also helped pull the average from the last election down to this.

Tree of Life helps raise $4,500 for Hospice Simcoe

11/26/2008

The staff of Shoppers Drug Mart in Alcona would like to thank everyone who helped raise $4,500 for Hospice Simcoe in Barrie. Along with our yearly fundraiser Tree of Life, we also held a barbecue, bake and book sale. There are many people to be recognized for all their hard work. Darleen Simpson sold over $1,800 in raffle tickets and leaves.

Cookstown residents and businesses host successful Light Up Night again

11/26/2008

The Cookstown and District Chamber of Commerce held its annual Light up Night on Friday November 14th. Even though it was raining, we had excellent attendance and the evening was very successful. This year, we had a competition for the best decorated store.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

11/26/2008

The community event calender is provided as a free public service to non-profit organizations to announce upcoming events. Deadlines are no later than Monday for that week's issue to COMMUNITY EVENTS, P.O.

COOKSTOWN NEWS

by Barb Baguley — 11/26/2008

It is said that it takes 1,000 exposures to the reading experience before a child can begin to understand printed material. This can come from hearing stories, identifying street signs, pictures in books or naming letters. Perhaps that is why the local library is the heart of the community.

THORNTON NEWS

by Cathie Miller — 11/26/2008

After a number of thefts in our village last week, where snow blowers, barbeques, generators and more were taken, residents of Thornton are being reminded to make sure their property is securely locked up. Homes, garages and sheds should be locked at all times, and motion activated lighting installed to deter the thieves.

CHURCHILL NEWS

by Linda Gerow — 11/26/2008

To all my American friends, I wish a very happy Thanksgiving on Nov. 26th. The holiday dates back to 1621, the year after the Puritans arrived in Massachusetts, determined to practice their dissenting religion without interference.

LEGION NEWS

by Ed Collins — 11/26/2008

Bazaar and craft sale: The ladies auxiliary of the branch will be holding their annual sale Nov. 29th, starting at 9 a.m. There will be plenty of items for everyone. Also, our famous lunch counter will be open with lots of great soups, sandwiches and goodies.

Truck driver hit while asking for directions

11/26/2008

On Monday November 24, South Simcoe Police were called to the intersection of the 10 Sideroad and 11th Concession of Bradford West Gwillimbury, with regard to a pedestrian struck.

Driver flees following two vehicle crash

11/26/2008

On Wednesday November 19th, South Simcoe Police were contacted to attend to a fail to remain collision at the corner of Adullam Avenue and Lebanon Street in Innisfil. The complainant's vehicle, a red Chevrolet Malibu, was stopped facing north on Adullam, at the stop sign.

Teen punched in face, then robbed

11/26/2008

On Nov. 23, South Simcoe Police responded to a robbery that occurred in a parking lot in Bradford. The 18-year-old victim was punched in the face and ordered to empty his pockets. The victim was then pushed to the ground as the suspect stole his electric bicycle. The victim sustained minor injuries and police were subsequently called to investigate.

South Simcoe Police

11/26/2008

Bradford man charged in domestic dispute On Nov. 22, South Simcoe Police responded to a Bradford residence regarding a domestic dispute. As a result of an investigation, a Bradford man was charged with assault and held for a bail hearing.

Thornton man caught driving erratically

11/26/2008

On Nov. 23, a police officer observed a motor vehicle being operated in an erratic manner. The vehicle was stopped for a Highway Traffic Act violation. As a result of this vehicle stop, the driver was arrested for drive over 80 milligrams. Further investigation revealed the man had a quantity of illegal drugs in his possession.

Football team sets focus on next year

By Ashley Walker — 11/26/2008

The Nantyr Shores Secondary School's boys football team recently ended their season with an unfortunate loss that kicked them out of the playoffs. The coaches feel like the boys learned a lot this season. They learned about playing as a team and the importance of practice.

Feeling euchred for the food bank

By Chris Simon — 11/26/2008

Residents were getting euchred for needy families Friday evening. The Innisfil Lionesses held their annual euchre tournament and food drive at the Lions Hall on Innisfil Beach Road last week. Proceeds raised were donated to the Barrie Food Bank, said Lioness and organizer Debbie Marges.

Successful start to paramedic toy drive

11/26/2008

Dozens of new, unwrapped toys were collected times during the first week tough, of the County of Simcoe Paramedics' Food and Toy can't afford Drive to benefit local children and families during the TO! Christmas season. Paramedics are hoping to add to the total at events in Collingwood, Midland and Orillia on Nov. 22 and 23.

Santa parade set

11/26/2008

The Innisfil Santa Claus Parade is back for another year this Sunday. The parade will begin at times 1:30 p.m., at the Jans tough, Boulevard and Innisfil Beach Road, ending at can't afford Innisfil Beach Park. It will feature over 35 TO!

TO! Gift wrappers wanted

11/26/2008

Share the Christmas spirit. Volunteer to wrap Christmas gifts in a Barrie mall from Dec. 1 to 24 with members of the Alzheimer Society of Greater Simcoe County. Shifts are available to suit every schedule. To book an interview, call 722-1066.

Singing for Native art

By Chris Simon — 11/26/2008

Local artists, musicians and residents came together to support at risk youth, during a benefit concert in Alcona Friday evening. About 50 people attended the house concert, which featured folk musician John Wort Hannam.

A new twist on Aladdin at the Gibson Centre

11/26/2008

The Onstage Performance Group presents Aladdin, a musical extravaganza in the tradition of British holiday pantomime, by John Morley. No, it's not Disney's version, most of the story is set in China, not the Middle East, and the princess is named Say Wen, not Jasmine. It is a musical comedy that is sure to delight young and old alike.

Protecting residents from rabies

By Dr. Jim Pfaff Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit — 11/26/2008

We rarely hear about people dying of rabies in Canada thanks to good preventative measures, but rabies is still a serious health issue across the world. The World Health Organization estimates that rabies, a virus that is spread from the saliva of a rabid animal during a bite or scratch incident, is responsible for the deaths of upwards of 55,000 people annually.

Celebrating a history of local genealogy

11/26/2008

Residents are invited to celebrate the Simcoe County branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society's anniversary on Saturday November 29. The event takes place at the LDS Church on Ferris Lane in Barrie, beginning at 2 p.m.

Developing positive teenage relationships

11/26/2008

Mom and dad have noticed that 14-year-old Angela is spending more time with her friends. They realize that this is normal and are trying not to feel pushed aside. But they are concerned that some of these friends may not be a good influence on their daughter.

Quit smoking through the health unit

11/26/2008

Time is running out for people thinking about signing up for the quit smoking workshops being run by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit. There are still seats left for the three-hour sessions, which come with a free fiveweek supply of The Patch or nicotine inhalers.

Bringing Dr. Seuss to the Gibson Centre

11/26/2008

The Gibson Centre's Honda Performance Hall was crawling with all sorts of creatures last week during the drama program's final presentation of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax, a story about the need to save the environment.

Church offers free dinner

11/26/2008

Innisfil Community Church is hosting a free community Christmas dinner Dec. 24th at 6 p.m. Each year, the church has coordinated efforts to make sure that lonely, or needy residents have access to a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings.

Ladies of the Lake bare all

11/26/2008

Ladies of the Lake, with sponsors BrightStar Corporation, Naked Grape Wines and others working together to save Lake Simcoe, report selling 11,000 calendars by Nov. 15th — 1,000 more than the 2006 calendars sold at this time three years ago.

Get ready for a new baby

11/26/2008

The Getting Ready for Baby series of classes consists of three two-hour sessions before the child arrives, and one two-hour session after it is born. At series seminars, participants learn about nurturing, safety, and feeding a baby, becoming a parent, and life during the child's first few weeks.

Making parenting decisions with Triple P

11/26/2008

Whether your child is a toddler or a teenager, or somewhere in between, there are sure to be times when you've struggled with their behaviour. Triple P, the positive parenting program, can help.

Hitting the quilt jackpot

11/26/2008

Barrie resident Dave Clements, shown with daughters Keely and Sarina, was the winner of the handmade queensize quilt that was raffled at St. Paul's Submitted photo Anglican Church, during the Country Craft Bazaar on Nov. 8. Clements purchased his ticket at the Zehrs grocery store on Big Bay Point Road.

The Gardener's Corner

By Judith Rogers — 11/26/2008

With the announcement of Gardening Life magazine closing down as of Friday morning, Nov. 14, many writers, including Marjorie Harris who was one of the co-founders, are out of a job. Apparently, the global financial crisis that has triggered a decline in advertising markets has had media companies everywhere evaluating their investments and making tough decisions.

Students raise money for United Way

By Ashley Walker — 11/26/2008

Nantyr Shores Secondary School students and staff presented United Way director of development Susan Barnes with a check for $1,740 last week. The staff and students of Nantyr Shores came together to raise money for the United Way campaign. Student Council planned United Way Week, with many different events.

Skills being specialized

By Ashley Walker — 11/26/2008

The Specialist High Skills Major program at Nantyr Shores Secondary School started this year in September. The program is full of opportunities for students who know what they want to do after high school. The program lets students focus on their choice of programs offered, while still earning credits for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

Nantyr bullies beware

By Ashley Walker — 11/26/2008

Monday November 17th kicked off Bullying Awareness Week at Nantyr Shores Secondary School. The Triton Support Team held an assembly for each grade, to let everyone know about bullying. The assembly consisted of the support team talking about what bullying is, and how it can harm people. In addition, they let everyone know about the events that were taking place all week.

Health unit offering immunizations

11/26/2008

Immunizations are the best way to protect against preventable diseases such as measles, pertussis (whooping cough) and tetanus. The Simcoe Muskoka District Health unit provides regular immunization clinics at all office locations for infants through to seniors.

EAs reach agreement with Catholic school board

11/26/2008

The Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation (OSSTF) District 17 — Educational Assistants and the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board reached a tentative agreement last week. Details of this agreement will not be made public until it has been ratified by both parties.

Teachers reach tentative deal

11/26/2008

A tentative agreement has been reached between the Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation (OSSTF) District 17 — Plant Maintenance and the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board.

Premier awards offered

11/26/2008

Nominations are now open for the Premier's Awards for Teaching Excellence. Parents, students, educators and community members can nominate an outstanding educator or support staff member for an award. The awards recognize educators and staff who excel at unlocking the potential of Ontario's young people, and gives these professionals recognition.

Custodians reach new deal

11/26/2008

The Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board and Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 3987 representing custodial staff reached a tentative agreement on Friday October 24 following a recent round of positive negotiations.