December 2007 - Lanark County

A NEWSLETTER FOR COUNTY OF LANARK EMPLOYEES
DECEMBER 2007
IN THIS ISSUE:
Warden's message....Page 2
Spirit Committee.........Page 3
Lanark Lodge..............Page 5
Employee Services.....Page 8
Service Awards...........Page 9
Emergency Services...Page 10
LCHC........................Page 10
Social Services.........Page 11
Photo Page...............Page 12
Finance/I.T................Page 13
Clerk's Services........Page 14
Public Works............Page 15
Tourism.....................Page 16
PICTURES!
County Connections is
always looking for
PHOTOS for the next
issue. Send digital images
at ANY TIME to the
contacts listed on Page 12.
DECK THE HALLS! Staff and residents at Lanark Lodge have been getting
ready for the festive season. From left: Ed Greer, resident; Adelene
McCord, Lodge staff; and Jerry Pizzariello, Debbie Wilson and Ella May
Sheil, residents.
A Message from the CAO
Renovations nearing completion
By Peter Wagland
As Christmas approaches, so
does the completion of the
renovations at the County
Administration Building. It was
actually scheduled to be
completed the week of Dec. 10.
The furniture was also due to
arrive the same week.
Unfortunately, we have
experienced some challenges
with the HVAC system in the
Council Chamber and that work
will not be completed until the
end of January.
Recognizing that Christmas
is a busy time for all of us, staff
will be taking vacations and
year-end is upon us. We have
decided that it’s in our best
interest not to move until early
January. Therefore, moving
week will be from Jan. 7 to 11.
Plans are currently being
developed to schedule
everybody’s return to the
administration building, along
with the disconnection and
reconnection of computers and
telephones. Further information
will be shared with you as the
plans evolve.
Continued on Page 2
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
–
PAGE 2
DECEMBER 2007
CAO/WARDEN
A Message from the CAO, cont'd
Continued from Page 1
I would like to acknowledge and thank the
residents of Lanark Lodge and their families. They
shared their home with us during our temporary
relocation, not only from a point of view of office
space, but also meeting rooms. They have been
very generous with their home, and I’m sure it has
been disruptive to their normal routines by having
so many strangers occupying their space. Thank
you, too, to Lanark Lodge staff who willingly
shared their meeting room space with us. Too
often we took the larger share, leaving you to
improvise for your own meetings. I would also like
to acknowledge and thank all of you for adapting
so well in our temporary space. We did not
experience any significant challenges. Certainly
your flexibility and willingness to adapt kept things
running smoothly.
Included in this issue are additional pictures to
show you the progress made. By the time
Christmas comes the building will be completely
finished, and the new furniture that has been
ordered will be set up awaiting our arrival.
I trust you will all enjoy our new home. Thank
you in advance to those who will make our return
as convenient as possible. I would like to offer
special recognition to Steve Allan for leading the
entire project, with the capable assistance of
Jamie Dickey. As with our move here, Ken
Stewart and Peter McLaren, along now with
Shannon McCann and Sam Law, will play a key
role in ensuring our technology and telephone
communications operate effectively. Start
thinking about packing your boxes and being
ready to go!
Christmas is a special time of year for all of us.
I wish each and every one of you a very Merry
Christmas and a happy holiday season from my
family and the Executive Management Team and
their families, to you and your family. Have a safe
and happy holiday season.
A Message from the Warden
Lanark County proud
By Al Lunney
There is an old saying, “Time goes fast when
you’re having fun.” That certainly applies to my
term as Warden over the past year. It has been
a busy but very enjoyable year. I have
particularly enjoyed getting to know more of you
and having the opportunity to better understand
the inner workings of the County.
The Warden is a member of the Eastern
Ontario Wardens’ Caucus, an organization of
13 other counties and single-tier municipalities
in eastern Ontario. As a part of this
organization, I have had the opportunity to meet
with my peers in other counties and I am proud
to say ours is looked upon as a leader, highly
respected by all. Well-respected organizations
are the product of excellent employees and as
Warden I want to thank you for your continuing
contributions.
I would like to especially thank Peter, Susan,
Cathie, Amanda and the directors for their help
over the past year. Have a happy and safe
holiday season.
ALMOST READY: Renovations to the Public Works
(above) and Administration (below) buildings are nearing
completion. Please see more photos on Page 16.
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
– DECEMBER 2007
PAGE 3
SPIRIT COMMITTEE
NEW MEMBERS ON SPIRIT
COMMITTEE
Seven new members joined
the Spirit Committee in June,
with Janet Sproule continuing
as a member but resigning
from the position of chair.
The current Spirit Committee
at Lanark County consists of:
Annette Scott, chair; Amanda
Mabo, co-chair and secretary;
Jennie Bingley, treasurer; Lisa
Crosbie-Larmon, EMT sponsor;
Janet Sproule; Marilyn Allen;
Dale Halladay; Mary Lou White;
Garry Welsh; Susan Truelove;
Marie Bonselaar (with Terry
McCann, Kim Hall or Tracy
Palmer as alternates); Donna
Baylis; Joanne Burke; Julie
Gauthier.
The new focus of this Spirit
Committee is on events for the
employees rather than
fundraising for different
charities. Occasional
fundraising will occur to support
Spirit Committee initiatives for
employee events; however, the
Spirit Committee will still
continue to promote and
support any charity fundraising
that is being done, i.e. United
Way payroll deductions.
PAST AND UPCOMING
EVENTS!
Spirit Committee events
that have occurred since
June include 50/50 draws (with
proceeds going to support
Spirit Committee initiatives for
employee events); a softball
game held August 24; Casino
Night at Rideau Carleton
Raceway held Oct. 10 (a bus
was organized and buffet
dinner available) with the big
winner of the evening being
Anne Emery; Halloween –
Come Break with Us (no cost
to employees) and wearing
costumes for the day was
promoted and encouraged; the
promotion of public skating at
lunch hour.
Events that are being
proposed and organized for
2008 include an Employee
Cookbook containing recipes
submitted by employees; public
skating at noon hour; pancake
and sausage breakfast; skiing
Continued on Page 4
PLAY BALL!
On Aug. 24,
County staff
participated in
the Lanark
County Softball
Game. Thanks
to all who
participated!
The Spirit
Committee
plans to
promote
another game
in 2008. Stay
tuned!
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
–
PAGE 4
DECEMBER 2007
SPIRIT COMMITTEE, CONT'D
Continued from Page 3
at Pakenham; Come Break with Us at
Valentine’s, Easter and Halloween; a pot luck
lunch; tubing at Pakenham; snow golf; 50/50
draws; information sessions (e.g. Weight
Watchers); a blood drive; daily walking; moose
tracks, popsicles, and ice cream sandwich treats
in the summer months; 9 & Dine (golf and
dinner); boat cruise and dinner; softball game;
assist at Staff Appreciation Barbecue; beach/
lawn volleyball; casino night; Ottawa Senators
game; chili races; bowling.
Specific Spirit Committee members have been
assigned as a team leader for each future event
being planned and may ask other Spirit
Committee members or individuals from their
department to assist.
A special thank you goes to the Executive
Management Team for their support of the Spirit
Committee initiatives.
SUGGESTIONS!
To help meet our objectives, the Spirit
Committee has designed suggestion boxes
where you can drop off suggestions or ideas.
There is one located at each facility in the front
reception area.
The committee will review and discuss
suggestions at their meetings. Thanks for your
help – and stay tuned!
SPOOKS ABOUND! County staff
were encouraged to dress up for
Halloween. A "Come Break With Us"
event was hosted by the Spirit
Committee at the Administration
Building.
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
– DECEMBER 2007
PAGE 5
LANARK LODGE
RON MOORE RETIRES
After 19 and a half years of service Ron
Moore, who worked at both Lanark Lodge and
the Administration Building, retired in June.
Colleagues and friends gathered to celebrate
the occasion and share stories. Ron was
known to many staff at the County of Lanark
and is missed for his ability to fix most anything,
his matter-of-fact ways and the ability to twirl a
toothpick like no other! One of Ron’s parting
gifts was a gold toothpick from his colleagues,
along with monies for a trip away to Niagara to
visit the casino and have a vacation that he so
rarely took. Best of luck, Ron!
RON
RETIRES:
Ron is
pictured with
recent
Lodge
retirees
Audrey
Baker, left,
and Linda
Shrout. Can
they
convince him
to clown?
INNOVATIVE PROGRAMS
It can be truly said that once
you have spent time at Lanark
Lodge, there is a commitment
to its residents, staff and
families. The staff is one large
family that supports one
another, has its odd squabbles,
but ultimately is there to make
things better for one another
and for the residents.
One shining example of such
commitment is two recent
retirees, Audrey Baker and
Linda Shrout, who have
committed to clowning at
Lanark Lodge. They are joined
by their recent recruits, Debbie
Wilson, a resident at Lanark
Lodge, and Donna White.
These ladies give generously
HALLOWEEN AT LANARK LODGE
Celebrations were well underway at Lanark
Lodge for this year’s Halloween, with staff,
residents and our entertainers dressed up for
the day. There was judging of costumes for the
residents and, in turn, the residents and
entertainers judged staff who dressed up.
Carole Wright, Dietary staff member, won for
her “one night stand” rendition! There was a
“break with us” activity for staff and a party in
the afternoon that residents, volunteers and
staff enjoyed with gifts, treats and live
entertainment by the “Kitchen Band.” What a
great day; wonderful spirit throughout the
home!
SPOOKS! Some of the great costumes featured at
Lanark Lodge.
of their time to bring humour,
gaiety and spontaneity to the
workplace and our home. Also,
there is a “clown in training”
program through a partnership
with Grade 5 and 6 at St. John’s
Elementary school. Twelve
student clowns are honing their
wit and clowning skills to
entertain us at Lanark Lodge.
The “Giggles Team” is hard at
work clowning around and
adding a new dimension to our
home. Lanark Lodge has
created a home where people
wish to contribute and we are
most fortunate and thankful to
have current and past
employees who give so willingly
of their time. Many thanks!
CLOWING AROUND: From left, retired Lodge employees Audrey Baker
and Linda Shrout are joined by Debbie Wilson (resident) and Donna White.
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
–
DECEMBER 2007
PAGE 6
LANARK LODGE, CONT'D
SCARECROW CHALLENGE
This autumn, staff issued the
Scarecrow Challenge to
neighbourhoods and
departments to build the best
fall décor with the prize being
bragging rights!
A flurry of secretive building of
scarecrow displays
commenced, including sneak
peeks into the other
neighbourhhods to try to
capture their trade secret or
winning edge. Not only did staff
get into the challenge, but
residents and families alike
were intent on having the best
display for their neighbourhood
or department.
A panel of four judges, who
could not be swayed by candies
and other offers, judged the five
submissions. Evergreens took
a medical approach with a
scarecrow on a stretcher with a
worn-out nurse scarecrow
caring for him.
Honeysuckle Haven
had a live scarecrow
(secret weapon) to
enhance its display.
The Maples reflected
the county with a
hunting twist and
treats, no less. The
Laundry/
Housekeeping display
featured magnificent
BRAGGING RIGHTS: Honeysuckle Haven's
colours and graced
entry won the Scarecrow Challenge.
the front entrance,
creativity and fun in building the
and the Recreation display
displays were great to witness.
brought life and the fall theme to
The displays were enjoyed by
our lower level.
visitors and welcomed in the
It was a tough call, but
change of season to the fall.
Honeysuckle Haven, with the
Thanks to Susan Carr, RPN, for
live scarecrows, won the
issuing the challenge, to the
“bragging rights”! It was great to
staff for responding to the
see the commitment by staff
challenge and to the
supported by residents and
housekeeping staff who had
families to bring the fall décor to
straw to clean up for weeks
their workplace and the
from the displays!
residents’ home! The ideas,
GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND
Each year community fairs
arrive in towns across our
county. Many people from the
community partake, and it is an
event that is looked forward to
by many. For residents residing
in long-term care, it is no longer
easy to get out and enjoy the
activities the community has to
offer and in many instances our
residents long to be able to
partake in these events as they
have memories of past fairs.
The creativity and
commitment of staff to bring the
outside community into Lanark
Lodge is to be commended.
On Nov. 2 a fair atmosphere
was created by the Recreation
staff at Lanark Lodge, supported
by volunteers and retirees of the
Lodge, so that
the fun and gaiety
experienced by
attending outdoor
fairs was brought
indoors. There
were activities
like bust the
balloon with a
dart, potty toss,
fishing for prizes,
face painting,
clowning,
popcorn and
candy floss
snacks. Not only COMMUNITY FAIR: Staff went all out to bring the
did staff recreate community fair experience to Lanark Lodge residents.
the fair in the
could experience some of the
auditorium, they brought it to the
fun. All staff and volunteers
neighbourhood that was in
worked together to make this
outbreak so residents not well
event a huge success!
enough to attend the big event
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
– DECEMBER 2007
PAGE 7
LANARK LODGE, CONT'D
PETTING ZOO VISITS LODGE
No community fair is complete without a petting
zoo! So, how do we get the animals to the
residents? Through the commitment of staff we
make things happen! Joanne O’Neill, a personal
support worker at Lanark Lodge, and her
daughters loaded a truck and brought the animals
to us. Residents gathered outside on a sunny day
and spent a couple of hours with them. I chuckle
at recalling the faces of visitors pulling up to the
home and seeing the sight. Staff organized this
program and arranged for residents to be safely
at the front entrance to enjoy this activity. Staff
bring spontaneity and life to long-term care – we
cannot wish for any better! Thank you to our staff
and volunteers for going above and beyond!
PETTING ZOO: Staff treated Lanark Lodge residents to
a petting zoo on Aug. 13.
NEW HIRES
Lanark Lodge and the County
of Lanark welcome several new
long-term-care employees:
Health Care Aides, Registered
Practical Nurses, Registered
Nurses, Support Services Aides TIM ARMSTRONG,
and Food Services Aides.
SSA
GILLIAN
ASTLES, RPN
JESSIE
BUXTON, FSA
JACKIE DAVIS,
FSA
BRENDA DAY,
HCA
SHARON
ECHLIN, FSA
RYAN
NANCY JAMES,
HENDERSHOTT,HCA
FSA
JOAN
JOHNSTON, RPN
ALISON
KACZAN, RPN
CYNTHIA
KEARY, HCA
BRENDA
LAFANTAISIE,Cook
SHELLY
MOLLOY, HCA
ALMA MORRIS,
RN
LORI ROBERTS,
HCA
ROBERTO
MANITO, HCA
KATY
BROUILLETTE,HCA
JILL SARGENT, TYHIA SAWYER,
HCA
RPN
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
–
PAGE 8
DECEMBER 2007
COUNTY HEALTH AND WELLNESS
CAN BEING TOO SICK TO
WORK BE BAD FOR YOU?
Sometimes when we feel
overcome by work and life
demands, it seems to call for
some time away. Researchers
are finding, however, taking
time off from work can make
things worse.
A recent article by Lesley
Morrison in The Herald
indicates of those working
people claiming incapacity
benefits, someone who is off
sick for six to 12 months has a
90 per cent chance of not
returning to work in the
foreseeable future. For those off
for more than two years, they
are more likely to retire or die
than return to work.
Rather than being a healing
process, “worklessness” can
actually lead to poorer physical
and mental health, loss of selfworth and self-confidence,
poorer social integration and
increased medical care. The
article compares it to having
“the same negative health
impact as smoking 10
cigarettes a day.”
In addition, physician followup with a person who is on sick
leave with a work-related illness
is often not as rigorous as it is
for someone who is suffering
from a disease such as cancer.
Stephanie Morrison, a
lecturer with the School of
Health Sciences at Robert
Gordon, says people need to be
occupied in a meaningful way to
be healthy.
Professor Waddell of the
Centre for Psychosocial and
Disability Research, University
of Cardiff, says the social
context of work is important.
“We need to change the culture
of work, stop focusing on the
potential toxic impact of work
and take on board that longterm worklessness is one of the
REDUCING STRESS IN YOUR LIFE
In “Fighting fatigue” in body + soul magazine,
Tracy Gaudet, M.D., discusses signs of fatigue
and encourages people to listen to themselves.
Fatigue takes many forms and can relate to
achieving balance in life. It is one thing to feel
tired, but staying out of balance can lead to a
depletion of our reserves and, subsequently,
exhaustion. It is important to have a physician rule
out other possible ailments first, such as anemia,
depression, severe allergies, insomnia, side
effects from medication, underactive thyroid,
chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia.
Dr. Gaudet describes “Five Centres of
Wellness” she uses to help patients take an
inventory of their lives and make changes to help
recover from fatigue. They are movement
(exercise), nutrition, mind (reaction to stress),
sensuality (a connection to your body) and spirit
(a sense of purpose and inspiration).
In the same magazine, Kathleen Hall writes
greatest risks
to health.”
“Being in
work is one of
the most
important
factors in
feeling adjusted in society,” said
Dame Carol Black, the national
director for health and work.
To see the Herald article, go
to http://www.theherald.co.uk/
features/features/
display.var.1711435.0.0.php.
At the County, Marilyn Allen,
Occupational Health and Safety
Specialist, encourages
employees to seek alternative
methods of treatment rather
than taking extended leaves
away from work. There are
numerous resources available
to employees to help them in
times of crisis. For more info or
occupational health services,
contact Marilyn at 613-2648022, ext. 1631.
about “10 secrets to a stress-free life”:
1. “Start small.” Don’t overwhelm yourself with
big self-improvement changes.
2. “Connect.” Maintain relationships. Isolation can
be a health risk. Pets help to reduce stress.
3. “Focus on now.” Complete one task at a time.
4. “Write it out.” Drive out negative feelings by
writing them down.
5. “Own the news.” Don’t be apathetic, but use
what you learn to make a difference.
6. “Walk softly.” When stressed, people walk
harder. Walking gently helps one to calm down.
7. “Try a mini-meditation.” Memorize a few words
to help keep you centred, such as, “I am strong.”
8. “Take stock.” Every day for a week, list things
that bring you joy and things that drain you. See
how your life matches up.
9. “Love your commute.” Use this time to practise
patience and compassion; breathe calmly.
10. “Practise gratitude.” Each day, spend five
minutes giving thanks for the gifts in your life.
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
– DECEMBER 2007
PAGE 9
COUNTY HEALTH AND WELLNESS, CONT'D
OFFICE ERGONOMICS
Marilyn Allen, the County’s
Occupational Health and Safety
Specialist, has received her
Certified Ergonomics Specialist
designation. Congratulations,
Marilyn!
This means Marilyn can look
into any concerns you may
have regarding such things as
your desk, chair, keyboard tray,
proper lifting techniques or use
of equipment, etc. Having these
services available in-house is
good news for staff!
Any County employees who
have concerns about
WHEN YOU NEED TO DIAL 9-1-1 AT WORK, REMEMBER:
When dialing 9-1-1 in an emergency you may need to first
dial 9 to get an outside line. Also, remember to use the civic
address for your location:
• For the Lanark County Administration Building, dial 9-9-1-1.
The address is 99 Christie Lake Road, Perth.
• For Lanark Lodge, dial 9-9-1-1. The address is 115 Christie
Lake Road, Perth.
• For the Perth Garage, dial 9-9-1-1. The address is 110 Wilson
St. W., Perth.
• For the Almonte Garage, dial 9-1-1 (select a line on portable
phones). The address is 4752 County Road 29 North, Almonte.
ergonomics in their workplace
should contact Marilyn to
schedule an assessment. She
can be reached at 613-2648022, ext. 1631 or by e-mailing
[email protected].
LONG-SERVICE AWARDS
40 YEARS: Adelene McCord.
35 YEARS: Walter Warwick.
30 YEARS: Present: Gerry Haughian.
Absent: Patricia Burke-Carr.
25 YEARS: Present: Tom Guindon,
Genevieve McLean, Steve Tennant,
Leslie Lendrum. Absent: Helen
McDaniel, Judy McGinnis.
10 YEARS: Present Bob Burch and
Mary Bradley. Absent: Joanne O'Neill
and Rhonda Allan.
20 YEARS: Present:
Denis Myers, Jane
Webster, Heather
Jones, Marie Bonselaar.
Absent: Elaine Ellson,
Bev Ladurantaye, Kathy
Oakley.
15 YEARS: Present:
Ruth Carson, Valerie
Dickson-Wheeler,
Sheila Donleavy, Marie
White accepting for
Cynthia Byrne, Tammy
Donalds. Absent: Craig
Bresee, Liane Clarke,
Sally Day, Jackie Yuill.
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
–
PAGE 10
DECEMBER 2007
EMERGENCY SERVICES
Lanark County municipalities and the Town of
Smiths Falls participated in a unique emergency
planning exercise on Oct. 26. The tabletop
exercise was designed to test all municipal
emergency resources and their abilities to work
together in light of a crisis affecting the whole
county. It was the first simultaneous exercise
undertaken by a county in Ontario.
The scenario involved a matter of national
security. A terrorist threat in Ottawa resulted in
the hypothetical evacuation of hundreds of
thousands of people into regions outside of the
city. Roads were gridlocked and requests for help
poured into local municipalities.
Local municipalities and the County of Lanark
assembled their community control groups,
which are responsible for managing emergency
situations on a community-wide basis. Other
emergencies occurred in various towns at the
same time, including a fire in downtown Carleton
Place and a truck collision in Perth that involved
25 active beehives.
Rick Hannah, emergency services coordinator,
said the exercise was a good way to improve
local emergency plans. Kudos to the emergency
exercise simulation team made up by Cindy
Halcrow, Lauren Walton, Leslie Lendrum, Ron
Haskins and Rick Hannah.
GOOD EXERCISE: Key players in the event included,
above, from left, Rick Hannah (County Emergency
Coordinator), Barrie Crampton (ARES), Leslie Lendrum
(County Emergency Coordinator), Philippe Geoffrion
(EMO Community Officer), Suzanne Carrier-Armstrong
(EMO Community Officer), Peter Wagland (County
CAO), Cindy Halcrow (Mississippi Mills Emergency
Coordinator), Al Lunney (County Warden).
Photos at right: The County's control group at work.
LANARK COUNTY HOUSING CORPORATION
It has been a very busy year at the LCHC. We
have had a large turnover with our units and the
waiting list for rent-geared-to-income housing is
getting longer.
Jack McIntosh, who has worked at the LCHC
for the past 17 years, retired at the end of
November. We wish Jack all the best in his
retirement and hope he gets to play lots of golf.
On Oct. 5 we held another very successful pot
luck lunch at the LCHC office with the gals and
guys from the Smiths Falls sub-office of Ontario
Works and APS. There was a large variety of
food brought in by staff members to enjoy. It was
a great time for everyone to get together and have
lunch and chat.
Once again the LCHC is collecting food for the
Food Bank for Christmas baskets. We managed
to collect quite a lot of food items last year to help
those less fortunate.
Our thoughts continue to be with Steve Hannah,
our Perth maintenance staff member, and his
family. Steve was just recently released from
hospital after being a patient since August. Steve
is well known to many throughout the county and
there’s a reason why he is called the “Piano Man.”
Best wishes for a continued recovery.
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
– DECEMBER 2007
PAGE 11
SOCIAL SERVICES
COUNTY WELCOMES NEW
DIRECTOR
Please welcome Nancy Green, Lanark
County’s new Director of Social
Services.
Nancy joined the County team in
September. She brings 21 years of
experience and was most recently
employed as Ontario Works Manager for
the United Counties of Leeds and
Grenville. She has abundant experience
NANCY GREEN
in the social services field and a track
record of managing complex projects and working with various
levels of government, agencies and other partners.
Nancy holds an Honours Bachelor of Social Work from
Laurentian University and has completed numerous job-specific
courses, training and workshops.
She looks forward to applying her skills and experience to the
position. Welcome to Lanark County, Nancy!
NEWS AND UPDATES
In September, Social
Services welcomed Andrea
Brown as an Ontario Works
Caseworker. Andrea’s previous
experience at Open Doors for
Lanark Children and Youth and
with Probation Services
complements our agency nicely
and is a good foundation for the
unpredictable nature of the
work.
With Andrea in place, Tara
Langford can finally focus on
the role of Hostel Caseworker.
This position oversees
domiciliary hostels, homeless
clients, discretionary funds for
ODSP recipients, homemakers’
services, emergency
applications and, of course, any
other duties as assigned!
The Family Support
department attended its annual
FSW Forum in Toronto in
October. Anne Emery, Cathy
Ritchie and Jane Cunningham
received training on topics such
as changes to the CAS
legislation, negotiating fair
conversations and calculating
support in shared parenting
situations. This was the first
year all of the Lanark
participants could enjoy the
forum without being called upon
to present workshops. Having
said that, Cathy’s “Who’s Your
Daddy?” session was sorely
missed by many participants.
Yvonne Taber has focussed
NEW HIRES: Sharon Roberts,
Ontario Works Clerk (left), and
Andrea Brown, Ontario Works
Caseworker, have joined the
Social Services team.
her efforts on assisting clients
with disability applications.
Yvonne has scheduled an
upcoming luncheon at Lanark
Lodge inviting several service
providers, such as legal clinic
lawyers, Mental Health and
TRICAS. Yvonne understands
the way to collaborative and
supportive relationships is by
providing a clear message (e.g.
help the client by limiting
bureaucracy and minimizing
overlaps) while, of course,
feeding people. Great work,
Yvonne!
Also, in mid September
Sharon Roberts joined the
Ontario Works department on a
contract as an Ontario Works
Clerk! Welcome, Sharon!
SPELLING BEE CHAMPS!
Social Services supported
the Spelling Bee for United Way
again this year. Our undefeated
Spelling Champions headed
back to the Civitan Nov. 16 to
try to defend their title – and
they emerged victorious! This
year the teams were reduced
from three to two, therefore we
had Leslie Lendrum and Nancy
Gray in the hotseat with Diane
Pearen cheering on the
sidelines. Congratulations!
CHILDREN’S SERVICES
Do you know that in Lanark
County there are:
· 1,200 licensed child-care
spaces
· 35 child-care sites
· 40 licensed child-care
homes
· 250 staff working in licensed
child-care programs.
Families may be eligible for
Continued on Page 16
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
–
PAGE 12
DECEMBER 2007
LANARK COUNTY IN PICTURES
COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE TEAM: (Left photo) Front row, from left,
A FAMILY AFFAIR: Three generations
Yvonne Taber, Bailey Hanna, Emily Taber, Tara Langford. Back row, from
of the same family have worked at
left, Leslie Lendrum, Diane Pearen, Steve Tennant, Steve Allan.
Lanark Lodge. From left, Stacey
Horne, her grandmother Myrtle King
and her mother Adelene McCord. They
were recognized at the Long-Service
Luncheon in June.
TERRY FOX RUN
PARTICIPANTS:
From left, Steve
Allan, Wendy
Wagland, Cathie
Ritchie, Peter
Wagland, Lisa
Crosbie-Larmon (and Adelene McCord (right) with long-time
and now retired manager Audrey
Murphy the dog)
Baker at the Long-Service Luncheon.
COUNTY
CONNECTIONS
STAFF
APPRECIATION
BARBECUE:
County
employees
enjoyed great
food and fun at
this event held
at Lanark
Lodge in
September.
is a publication of Employee Services and
the CAO’s Office, Lanark County
Administration Building, Sunset Blvd.,
Box 37, Perth, ON, K7H 3E2.
Submit articles about awards, achievements,
announcements, etc. at any time to:
Lisa Crosbie-Larmon:
E-mail:
[email protected]
Telephone: 613-267-4200, ext. 1601
Stephanie Gray:
E-mail:
[email protected]
Telephone: 613-264-0447
Fax:
613-264-0409
Striving to build unity through
communication.
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
– DECEMBER 2007
PAGE 13
FINANCE
FINANCE FROLICS
The Finance Team was recognized again this
year for its leadership role in pushing the
envelope and was profiled by Microsoft Canada
as a case study. This case study can be seen
online at http://www.microsoft.com/canada/
casestudies/lanarkcounty.mspx.
Changes to accounting principles and reporting
as required by the Public Sector Accounting
Board by 2009 are
consuming much of our time
and will transform the way
municipalities do business in
the future. This totally
changes the focus of finance
and managers in
municipalities from shortterm to long-term planning.
Although this is the right thing
WELCOME:
to do, it is a very large
Kurt Greaves was
workload as it is estimated
we need to capture historical hired as PFT
Financial Analyst in
information of approximately
June.
30,000 assets before January
1, 2009. Stay tuned in future
articles. The infrastructure deficit is estimated to
be in the range of $125 billion in Canada and the
move to full accrual accounting will start to focus
attention on these aging assets.
Christmas time for Finance is always busy with
the year-end processes and the development of
the 2008 budget. We are also facing the
challenge of moving into our new digs right in the
middle of year-end processing.
MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR
As some of you may know, I have tendered my
resignation as Director of Finance/Treasurer to
be effective early in the new year. I have decided
to leave the public service after 20 years in favour
of revitalizing my own consulting firm specializing
in public-service financial and management
consulting. This has been a difficult decision to
make as I have truly enjoyed working with the
County, Council and staff over almost five years
and I believe we have made great strides in
financial management over that time. I will truly
miss the staff of the Finance team, who I feel very
close to. We have grown together and have truly
been a team that has seen success.
That being said, I won’t be far. I am still a
Lanark County taxpayer and will watch with
interest as you all continue to provide great
service to the residents of Lanark County. I may
even attend some budget meetings as a member
of the public (although I probably would be lonely
in the bleachers). I understand that I may be
around a bit to help out during the transition to
replace my position.
I would like to thank all those who have
supported me and worked with me throughout the
years, including the local municipal staff. It truly
has been a great ride.
Tammy Wolters
INFORMATION
TECHNOLOGY
The County welcomes
Sam Law to the executive
management team as the
new Director of
Information Technology.
Sam joined us to lead
his new department in
November. He will be
responsible for continuing
a number of ongoing IT
initiatives and envisioning
SAM LAW
new and innovative ways
to deliver services in
consultation with staff, local municipalities and
Council.
Sam brings 10 years' experience in IT,
including project management, software
development and IT support. He most recently
directed the delivery of IT services for more
than 30 systems in various countries around
the world. He has proven team-management
skills, as well as a track record of successfully
proposing new initiatives. He holds a computer
science degree from the University of
Saskatchewan, is Information Technology
Infrastructure Library certified and studied
project management at the University of
Ottawa.
Stay tuned for more IT information from Sam
in the next edition of County Connections!
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
–
PAGE 14
DECEMBER 2007
CLERK'S SERVICES
GOLF TOURNAMENT
The County scored another
hole in one for the United Way
by raising $7,500 at the
Warden’s Annual Golf
Tournament to kick off the 2007
campaign. Held on Aug. 10 at
the Perth Golf Club-Links O’
Tay, 152 golfers took part and
more than 50 businesses,
individuals, municipalities and
service clubs showed their
support. Thanks to the many
County employees who
participated.
TEAMWORK: At left (from left): Al Lunney, Kathy Thayer, friend of Kathy’s,
Jennie Bingley, Kurt Greaves. At right (from left): Annette Scott, Al Lunney,
Anna-Mae Pilon, Sylvia Leroux, Christine Wills.
ANGEL TREES: The Clerk’s Department thanks all
who helped to bring some added joy to a little Angel. It
would be fun to see their faces Christmas Day!
REMEMBRANCE DAY: From left, Councillor Bob
Fletcher, Warden Al Lunney, Piper Tim Simpson (CAO
Lanark Highlands Township) and Joyce Box,
Receptionist.
REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY
The Clerk’s Department arranged for a
Remembrance Day Ceremony on Nov. 9 in front
of the Brown Shoe location. Tim Simpson braved
the chilly temperature to play two hymns on the
bagpipes, Joyce Box recited "In Flanders Fields"
and all who attended took a moment to remember
those who gave themselves for our freedom.
NEW HIRES
The Clerk's Department welcomes Joanne
Brus as PFT Clerical Assistant and Maria
MacDonald, PFT Council and Clerk Services
Assistant. Both took on these new roles in
September. Welcome!
OVERDRESSED FOR WORK! At left, there was
nothing in the dress code that covered Garry's get-up.
At right, Garry appeared on the A-Channel on Nov. 20
to help promote Perth's Fesitval of Good Cheer.
WHERE'S
SYLVIA?
Can you
find her in
this pack of
cyclists?
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
– DECEMBER 2007
PAGE 15
PUBLIC WORKS
CHANGES TO OUR TEAM
We welcome Valorie Vincent
as the new
Public Works
Secretary
replacing
Maria
MacDonald,
who has
VALORIE
accepted a
VINCENT
position with
the Clerk’s
Department. Valorie comes to
us with 20 years experience
working for a local law firm.
Five part-time on-call
Equipment Operators have
been hired to assist with winter
road maintenance. Allan
McMahon has joined the crew
at the Almonte Patrol along with
Todd Devlin and Brian Syme,
who have returned for another
season. Darren Umpherson
has joined the Perth Patrol,
along with Lyle McDougall, who
has returned for another
season. We welcome each
one in assisting with this
season’s winter road
maintenance operations.
A new position in the
Construction Section, “Junior
Technologist,” was filled by
Stevan Larocque at the end of
November. Stevan is
responsible for asset
management and will assist
Terry McCann with preengineering. David Bowes is
the new Lead Hand at the Perth
Patrol. Jason Varcoe is the
successful applicant to backfill
Dave’s Equipment Operator 2
position. Andy Emon, who has
been with the Public Works
Department since 1986, retired
this Fall. Steven Herns has filled
Andy’s vacant
Equipment Operator 1
position at the Perth
Patrol. Wayne
Porteous has filled
Steve’s position as
Permanent Full-Time
Equipment Operator 2
at Perth Patrol.
Congratulations to RETIRED: Andy Emon received his certificate
from Gerry Cole, Operations Supervisor.
everyone!
TRAINING
This Fall Public Works
Department staff renewed
their First Aid and Adult CPR
skills. The Equipment
Operator 2s also enjoyed four
days of Loader Backhoe
training to upgrade their
equipment operator skills. The
practical portion of the training
included trench excavation.
WORKING IN OFFICE TRAILERS: In September the staff from the
Public Works Building packed up their things and moved into office
trailers to allow for renovations to the building. The move back to the
Public Works Building took place Nov. 14. Above left, Jamie Dickey is
lost behind a box. Above right (from left), Valorie, Kim and Tracy are all
packed up and ready for the move. Below, the temporary office trailers.
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
–
PAGE 16
DECEMBER 2007
SOCIAL SERVICES, CONT'D
Continued from Page 11
financial assistance with their child-care costs for
children who attend or are going to attend
licensed child-care programs. For more info, see
the County website or contact Children’s
Services at 613-267-4200 ext. 2301/2302.
ACCESSIBILITY FOR EVERYONE
Did you know that one in every seven
Ontarians or just over 13.5 per cent of the
population has a disability? In 2025, one in five
Ontarians will be 65 or older – nearly 6.7 million
people. Here are ways you can provide better
service to your customers with disabilities:
• Treat people with disabilities with the same
respect and consideration you have for others.
• Patience, optimism and a willingness to find a
way to communicate are your best tools.
• Smile, relax and keep in mind people with
disabilities are just people.
• Don’t make assumptions about what type of
disability or disabilities a person has.
• Some disabilities are not visible. Take the time
to get to know your customers’ needs.
• Be patient. People with some kinds of
disabilities may take a little longer to understand
and respond.
• If you’re not sure what to do ask your
customer, “May I help you?”
• If you can’t understand what someone is
saying, just politely ask again.
• Use plain language and speak in short
sentences.
• Don’t touch or address service animals (such
as seeing eye dogs) – they are working all the time.
TOURISM
MEGATRAX SHOW: Remi Sauve, District 1
Snowmobile Association President, and Marie White,
County Tourism Manager at the booth.
PROGRESS: The photos above depict the evolution of
the renovations at the front of the Administration
Building from September to November. Below, from left,
Cathie Ritchie, Clerk; Nancy Green, Social Services
Director; and Mary Lou White, Child Care Manager,
tour the site in September.
MEGATRAX SNOWMOBILE SHOW
The 6th annual Megatrax Snowmobile, ATV and
Trailer Show sponsored a display booth for the
Lanark County Tourism Association at the show
on Oct. 20 and 21.
In partnership with District 1 Snowmobile Club,
we shared staff and volunteers. LCTA was given
excellent placement as the first booth at the
entrance! There were 5,203 attendees and
Lanark County was a destination of interest to
those who visited. Presence in the Ottawa
market fits well with our overall marketing
strategy. There were several inquiries about ATV
trails.