Year in Review in photos – January 2018

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Year in Review in photos – January 2018

Prince Edward County Mayor Robert Quaiff said 2017 was a year to be celebrated despite two water emergencies and looks forward to progress in 2018. Quaiff, council and staff hosted the annual New Year’s Levee at Macaulay Church to reflect on the successes of 2017, and what is in store for 2018. He hoped for improvements to long-term care, affordable housing, movement on the County’s new hospital, and helping business owners attract and retain employees, among other projects including bridges and roads. – Olivia Timm photo

Blindfolded audience member demonstrating how to identify different cricket chirrups with Jacob Rodenburg.

Those who braved sub-zero temperatures were rewarded with fun ways to engage with nature during Jacob Rodenburg’s presentation ‘Wilderness Alive’ at the Picton branch library. Rodenburg noted the average child can identify over 1,000 corporate logos, but only 10 native plants or animals – which he says is a telling indictment of a modern disconnection from nature. – Sharon Harrison photo

The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Auxiliary continued the spirit of giving this month by topping up community support of their annual Festival of Trees with additional funds added to proceeds from the 24th annual event. Patrons supporting the festival helped raise $40,000 toward a priority piece of medical equipment for the hospital. Auxiliary members added an additional $10,000 to the cheque presented to the Foundation.

A full house turned out to Bloomfield Town Hall to hear about a potential redevelopment of the former Pinecrest Memorial Elementary School site into an affordable housing and community hub for seniors. LoveSong Seniors Housing and Community Hub held its first public meeting to gauge interest on its proposal, to hear ideas, opposition and to answer residents’ questions. – Sharon Harrison photo

Snowfall reduced visibility for 10 photographers capturing images of Milford but and that’s just how they like it, for the most part. Photojournalist Phil Norton has been hosting County Outings for photographers, artists and naturalists for the past six years – more recently expanding to destinations throughout North America – but Milford remains one of his favourite locations to photograph, and lead his photography outings. “If I had to name the most interesting part of the County, both ecologically and culturally, I would pinpoint Milford on the map,” said Norton.

Add in a few good cooks, a handful of volunteers and a willing bunch of participants and you have a recipe for success. The gleaming commercial kitchen at the Wellington and District Community Centre is being put to good use with cooking classes geared to adults and children. Linda Downey, of the Wellington and District Storehouse Foodbank, came up with the idea for the cooking classes bringing Glen Wallis, of Food to Share, on board. – Sharon Harrison photo

The County Food Hub steering committee co-chairs Mike Farrell (left) and Todd Foster presented a plan for a food-based community kitchen project at Sophiasburgh Central School during a public meeting at the Demorestville Town Hall.

Community members shared ideas to keep Picton’s Town Hall a community resource during a visioning gathering meeting at its Ross Street, Picton location. The municipality owns the building, but it is possible the structure will be declared surplus and sold. The new municipal council will review proposals in the new year. – Sharon Harrison photo

Sonya, Dawn and Lyndsay – the Eph*ra Events team.

Picton’s Business Improvement Association bid farewell to its long-time manager Lyndsay Richmond following a 13-year run. Richmond announced she would be focusing on her young family and balance that with operating two businesses from home. Sarah Doiron has become the Picton BIA’s new manager. After 13 years with the BIA, Lyndsay Richmond will be focusing on her young family and balance that with operating two business from home.

Bay of Quinte MP Todd Smith chose to put family first over a cost-prohibitive bid for PC leader. He considered the bid after the Ontario party’s interim leader Vic Fedeli confirmed he won’t seek the position, following the ousting of leader Patrick Brown.