Trading builds community and local economy

Published: 05 July 2015

-Anne Finlay-Stewart

No cash? No problem!

It sounds like a slogan yelled out in a bad TV ad at 2 a.m , but it may be the shortest way to describe a Local Exchange and Trading System (LETS). A variation on traditional barter, the system promotes community and co-operation by broadening access to the skills and resources within a local region.

The Bluewater Trading Community (BTC) is an innovative LETS system in our area. Inspired by the experience of the Saugeen Trading Community and now more than 1500 similar systems around the globe, the Bluewater Trading Community has been test-driven and is ready to let the community get behind the wheel.
So here is what you need to know...

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Waterfront Festival just the beginning this weekend

Published: 03 July 2015

The Community Waterfront Heritage Centre (CWHC) invites you to join them for a fun, family friendly event on the waterfront on Saturday July 4.

The day begins with a community style Yard Sale at 9 AM to 2 PM, and costumed interpreterswill be selling 'old fashioned' bread, and ice cream treats, with all proceeds going to support CWHC.

Several Bruce Peninsula tugboats will be in the harbour throughout the day. Be sure to enter the FREE draw for the chance to win a...

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Notes from the Council Chamber, June 29, 2015

Published: 03 July 2015

-by Anne Finlay-Stewart

• In camera agenda item #51 was about potential litigation regarding the 8th Street East slope failure. This is why we pay for insurance.
• Deputations are an important part of assuring that councillors and staff know what is going on in the city and environs, and can make informed decisions. This week there were three, besides the Strategic Plan re-cap.
• Ray Assistance for Youth, a drop-in in downtown Owen Sound for youth 12 to 18, has been running with the support of regional churches since 1990. Over the years, staff and volunteers have seen harder drug use and increasing vulnerability among their visitors. The centre provides snacks, activities, prayer support and a listening ear. No counselling is offered, but referrals are made to community agencies.
• The Grey Sauble Conservation Authority is responsible for promoting sustainable management of renewable resources in the watershed. They assist municipalities and property owners with flood control, water quality, land use planning and forestry services as well as directly owning and managing their own properties. Last year they planted over 150,000 new trees and offered guided hikes, days camps and school-based programming to increase public awareness of our natural environment,
• Jane Phillips of the Business Enterprise Centre brought four of the participant in the Summer Company program to showcase their businesses. The program, funded by the provincial government, offers solid business training and some financing for young entrepreneurs between 15 and 29. The businesses are varied – from handcrafted greeting cards and natural skin care products to turned wooden bowls and hockey skills training (without the ice).

• Public question period can also be an opportunity for turning a spotlight on a particular corner of the city. Marg Gaviller, a former councillor herself, asked...

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A Victorian summer at Bishop House

Published: 02 July 2015

Step into the charming gardens of Bishop's House this summer and you may not want to leave.

Saturday, July 4 - Bring the picnic basket and the whole family for an Olde Fashioned Ice Cream Social, complete with croquet and lawn bowling. In keeping with the "Victorian Christmas in July" there will also be carollers, Father Christmas and gingerbread men to decorate. And of course, ice cream, free to our guests courtesy of Chapman's – the perfect end to a summer picnic.
A second Victorian Ice Cream social will be held August 1

Wednesday, July 8 at 2 p.m., traditionally costumed Victorian maids will be serving...

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Demerits for driving on closed roads

Published: 02 July 2015

The Owen Sound Police Service is warning drivers that driving on a roadway that is signed as being closed for construction or other maintenance is an  offence under the Highway Traffic Act and carries a fine of $110.00 and three demerit points. In addition, your insurance company may not indemnify you for any damages or collision that may occur while knowingly driving on a closed roadway. In some cases local traffic only may be permitted when it is safe to do so.

Inspector Wurfel states...

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