December 21 News Stories

LHIN Chair Search
The search for a new Chair of the Board for the Southwest Local Health Integration Network, is going well. Michael Barret, CEO of LHIN, says they are working closely with Health Minister Deb Mathews, to find a replacement for Norm Gamble, who recently left the post. Barret says it’s the province who appoints someone to the position. Barret says they’re also looking for three new board members, which is an internal process. He says they’re looking for specifics in their selection. Someone with legal knowledge, communication skills and someone with strong board experience. Barret admits the part time board position can be challenging because of the change in the health care system. The new board members are also appointed by the province.

Tourism Calendar
The beauty of Grey Bruce is featured in the 2010 edition of Great Ontario Outdoor Adventure Calendar. Bruce Grey Tourism Manager, Chris Hughes says the calendar spotlights Ontario's world-class adventure activities and destinations, and this year has a special focus on the icons of the Bruce Peninsula. He says The highlight of the calendar is the stunning photography, and offers key outdoor event listings, details of the amazing Adventure of a Lifetime Contest, birds of Ontario, and features Ontario Parks, National Parks and Conservation Areas. You can get your free calendar by calling Ontario Tourism and at Grey Bruce Tourism.

New CEO
Bruce Telecom has a new CEO. Chairman of the Board, Richard Martin says Eric Dobson, will take over on January 4. Dobson, has had a very successful career with Rogers Communications, where he served as senior vice president, business and carrier services. Martin says, during his tenure there, he exceeded profitability targets and was instrumental in building a highly-effective management team. Dobson replaces Mike Andrews, who submitted a letter of resignation, citing personal reasons for leaving his post on Dec. 4. He was hired last fall, taking over from Hans O. Nilsson who retired in the spring of last year.

Funding Award
A joint fundraising announcement was made, late Friday afternoon, by Huron Bruce MP Ben Lobb and MPP Carol Mitchell. $1 million will be used to re-purpose and renovate vacated portions of the Blue Water Rest Home in Zurich. Two thirds of the money has been allocated to the East Wing, when residents are moved to their new home, next year. Mitchell says, local jobs will be created, and that will stimulate the economy. When the space has been finished, it will house daycare, community services and assisted living suites. The funding comes through Canada’s Economic Action Plan.

Fatal Crash
South Bruce OPP continue to investigate a fatal crash in Greenock Township, Thursday night. Police say 63 year old David MacLennan, of Kincardine Township was pronounced dead at the scene, of the crash on County Road 15. The driver of the other vehicle, Rolf Huber, of Kincardine Township, was taken to hospital and released. No word on charges.

Special Olympic Donation
Saugeen Shores Special Olympics got an early Christmas present from the Power Workers' Union. The PWU presented $2,500 to the group, which will go toward transportation and equipment. Organizer Shelly Bellamy says four athletes will be going to the national games this summer, and the money will help offset the $1200 cost for each athlete. Special Olympics, who don’t get any government support, rely on donations and community support. ….this story by Sandy Lindsay…..www.saugeentimes.com

Reindeer Romp
200 participants took part in The Reindeer Romp and Jingle Jaunt, an event organized as part of the kick-off to the arrival of the Olympic Torch, in Port Elgin, on December 28th. The jaunt began at The Plex in Port Elgin, Sunday morning. The nominal registration fee went to support the Saugeen Track and Field Club who helped organize the event….this story by Sandy Lindsay….www.saugeentimes.com

Money Raised
The Kincardine Community Concert Band raised $430 for the general operating fund for Knox Presbyterian Church, Kincardine, through the band's annual Christmas concert, that held Wednesday night. A good crowd attended the event to hear a variety of Christmas songs and carols, and special guests, Dreamsville, a six-member soft jazz group….this story by Liz Dadson…www.kincardinetimes.com

Construction Stats
A major multi-unit residential project has boosted the construction figures in Kincardine. Fifteen building permits were issued in November, with a total value of $2.15 million. Chief building official Michele Barr said $1.2 million of the value in November came from the residential addition and alteration of the building that used to be Tracy's Tap and Grill, attached to the north of Darcie's Variety, at the corner of Russell and Walsh Streets in Ward 1. It is being turned into apartments. November's report also included two single detached homes, for a total value of $740,000. Construction was up last month compared to November of 2008. However, overall, the figures are down, compared to last year. To the end of November, 2009, there were 237 permits issued, with a total construction value of $18.4 million. To the end of November, 2008, there were 312 permits issued, with a total construction value of $38.7 million….this story by Liz Dadson…www.kincardinetimes.com

Fair Bursary
Nicole Roppel, Ambassador of the Tiverton Fair in 2007-08, got the first annual $500 bursary from Dianne Todd, secretary of the Tiverton Agricultural Society. Each ambassador is eligible for the bursary, after completing their reign as Tiverton's Fall Fair Ambassador and enrolling in a continuing education program.. Nicole is continuing her education at York University, enrolled in a joint program with Sheridan College, Bachelor of Design….this story by Liz Dadson….www.kincardinetimes.com