Join the OSEG Foundation and Ottawa REDBLACKS for an exclusive evening under the stadium lights at TD Place This is your exclusive opportunity to get up close with the REDBLACKS players and experience the thrill of the gridiron like never before and live entertainment while creating unforgettable memories with over 400 business and community leaders—all in support of the OSEG Foundation’s mission to help kids in our community play Click here for more information PETAWAWA — The Town of Petawawa has unveiled a new marketing logo as part of a broader initiative to support economic development and promote the community’s identity Developed in collaboration with creative agency Syntax Strategic the updated visual branding aims to reflect Petawawa’s continued growth We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentThe new logo will be integrated across multiple platforms, including a new upgraded municipal website, social media channels, wayfinding signage, stationery, and various tourism and marketing materials. “Our new brand is a symbol of the vibrant, forward-thinking community we’re building together,” said Petawawa Mayor Gary Serviss. “It embodies the essential elements of our natural environment that resonates with residents and honours our heritage.” Town officials say the refreshed branding is intended to attract visitors, encourage investment, and enhance the town’s profile within the region. “Petawawa is a proud and evolving town with deep roots and a bold future,” said Jennifer Stewart, president and CEO of Syntax Strategic. “We’re honoured to help tell that story–working alongside the people of Petawawa to create a brand that is both authentic and aspirational.” While the new logo will serve marketing and promotional purposes, the municipality’s traditional crest will remain in use for official and ceremonial functions, including legal documentation and Council communications. The rebranding effort highlights Petawawa’s vision of presenting itself as a dynamic, inclusive, and welcoming place to live, work, and visit. transmission or republication strictly prohibited This website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy You will also start receiving the Star's free morning newsletter Algonquin—Renfrew—Pembroke 2025 federal election live results. Browse live results for all 343 ridings 262 of 262 polls are reporting as of 4:20 p.m. Follow our full coverage of the 2025 federal election 262 of 262 polls are reporting as of 4:20 p.m. Follow our full coverage of the 2025 federal election is projected to be re-elected in Algonquin—Renfrew—Pembroke Gallant has 37,370 of 67,052 votes (55.73%) is in second place with 25,338 votes (37.79%) and Eileen Jones-Whyte Gallant has represented the riding since 2000 Algonquin—Renfrew—Pembroke used to be named Renfrew—Nipissing—Pembroke The riding’s boundaries were updated for the 2025 federal election 23,035 voters cast ballots at advance polls Looking for another riding? Here are the full results for the 2025 federal election. The Liberals have 169 races called in their favour They have 8,535,128 votes and 43.69 per cent of the popular vote The Conservatives have 144 races called in their favour They have 8,059,938 votes and 41.26 per cent of the popular vote The Bloc Québécois have 22 races called in their favour They have 1,232,095 votes and 6.31 per cent of the popular vote The New Democrats have seven races called in their favour They have 1,231,198 votes and 6.3 per cent of the popular vote The Greens have one race called in their favour They have 243,471 votes and 1.25 per cent of the popular vote There were three independents and four vacancies in the 338-seat Commons the Commons has grown by five ridings starting with this election This article was automatically generated using data provided by Canadian Press and will update as riding results become available Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Account processing issue - the email address may already exist Invalid password or account does not exist Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account OttawaNews1 person dead following structure fire in Pembroke, Ont. By Josh PringleUpdated: March 28, 2025 at 2:47PM EDT Twitter feed ©2025 BellMedia All Rights Reserved A pillar of German-Canadian culture in the Ottawa Valley marked a major milestone on April 26 as the Germania Club of Pembroke celebrated its 70th anniversary with a formal gala and banquet Boucher said with her parents being active members as she was growing up, she was brought to events, hearing German music and learning what it meant to be part of the Germanic community. “In 2005 I had the honour of being Miss Oktoberfest and that was a turning point for me,” she said. “It deepened my connection to the club and from that moment on, I knew I wanted to stay involved. Over the past 20 years I’ve worn many hats, but none have meant as much to me as standing here tonight as your president.” The Germania Club was founded in January 1955, following a meeting of recent German immigrants at the Union Hall on Miller Street. The group, recognizing the need for a cultural and social hub for German-speaking residents, elected a board of directors and formally established the club later that year. Originally hosting events at venues such as Sunset Hall, the Pembroke Legion, the Pembroke Armoury, and Thee Place, the club gained popularity for its social gatherings, including Mardi Gras celebrations, Oktoberfests, beer gardens, and New Year’s dances. Boucher said one of the greatest things about being involved in the Germania Club has been the people she’s met along the way – builders, storytellers, helpers, and culture keepers. Over the decades, the Germania Club has become known for its community events, including traditional German entertainment, dances, and the popular Christkindlmarkt (Christmas market). Its mission remains unchanged: to preserve and promote German culture in the Upper Ottawa Valley. or an immigrant living in Lanark or Renfrew County Do you want to make a difference in your community while building stronger connections with others who share similar experiences We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentWe are looking for new members to be a part of our Welcoming Network Committee and creating a welcoming environment for newcomers in our rural communities Our mission is to create a space where newcomers* to Lanark and Renfrew Counties can come together to have meaningful discussions about understanding and addressing the unique needs of our diverse community this group seeks to make a positive change in the community to benefit everyone While the Local Immigration Partnership of Lanark and Renfrew Counties has an existing committee the Welcoming Network Committee is a group of immigrants who would like to help other newcomers find their place in Lanark and Renfrew By joining the Welcoming Network Committee you’ll have the chance to make an impact in your community in meaningful ways You’ll have the opportunity to strengthen relationships with others who share similar backgrounds and experiences while also contributing to the development support programs for folks who are new to the area You’ll have a platform to advocate for the needs of newcomers your shared experiences and knowledge will help improve services and create better outcomes for the whole community If you are passionate about making meaningful changes in your community and helping newcomers feel at home we would love for you to become a part of this working group Your voice is essential in shaping a more inclusive future for Lanark and Renfrew Counties Newcomers to Canada may be permanent residents; refugees; temporary residents (including student or temporary resident permit holders); or anyone new or recently moved to Lanark and Renfrew Counties in the last five years To express your interest in joining the working group or to learn more please reach out to Localimmigrationpartnership@algonquincollege.com The Kiwanis Club of Pembroke celebrated the 103rd anniversary of its Charter Night on April 24th at the Kiwanis Field House in Pembroke A Kiwanis Club is chartered when it is officially recognized and approved by Kiwanis International. Chartering a club involves having a sponsoring Kiwanis club and meeting certain requirements, such as having 15 members and completing a petition for charter.  The Kiwanis Club of Pembroke was chartered on April 25, 1922, a mere seven years after the founding of Kiwanis International in Detroit, making it one of the oldest Clubs in Canada. The Pembroke club’s first president was Allen Woodruff.  During the 103rd Charter Night celebration banquet, the Kiwanis Club of Pembroke also presented several members with a Legion of Honour Award.  Legion of Honour Awards are first presented to Kiwanians after 25 years as a member and in five-year increments thereafter. The inscription on the certificate awarded to Legion of Honour members reads: “Be it known that this member is hereby accorded distinctive recognition and has the admiration and gratitude of this club, the district and Kiwanis International.”  Voters in Algonquin-Renfrew-Pembroke elected Conservative Cheryl Gallant to a ninth term in Parliament Monday night but she remains a member of the opposition We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentNationally the Conservatives picked up several more seats from their 2021 results but still finished second The federal Liberal Party managed to pull a victory out of what only a few months ago looked to be the jaws of sure defeat erasing the Conservative’s 24-point advantage in the polls at the beginning of the year with 261 out of 262 polls in Algonquin-Renfrew-Pembroke reporting in followed by Liberal candidate Cyndi Mills with 24,839 NDP representative Eileen Jones-Whyte with 2,430 Randy Briand of the United Party of Canada with 897 Danilo Velasquez of the Green Party with 599 and independent candidates Seth Malina and Stefan Klietsch with 223 and 121 respectively Arriving about 10:45 p.m. at Fresco’s Tap and Grill where she held her election night celebration, Gallant greeted her supporters and campaign workers.  “It’s been a long, hard race and a lot of door knocking but all the work pays off, just like in life,” Gallant said. “When you work hard you have a great life and a wonderful house in a good neighborhood on safe streets, and that’s what we’re working for all Canadians to have.”  While the national vote did not go the way Gallant wanted it to, she summed up her local ninth-straight electoral win in one word – “exhilarating.”  “Of course, we were hoping for a majority so that we can get Canada back on its feet and start our hundred-day plan to cut taxes, make life more affordable for people; stop the crime, build the houses and fix the budget so that everyone can have a great life in Canada.  “We really had high hopes so in terms of nationally, I’m a bit disappointed and in terms of this election [locally], well, I would like to have seen the margins a little wider; I’d like to be further ahead than I am, but that means I have to work harder this term,” she said.  The MP elect added she was truly humbled by being elected to represent the riding for a ninth term.  This fall, Gallant will mark her 25th anniversary as the riding’s member of Parliament. Reflecting back on those years, she talked about some of the things of which she was most proud in her career, two of those being during her first term.  Out on the campaign trail, Gallant said what she heard most from voters was the concern about affordability. According to the long-serving MP, people told her that prices are getting out of control and they were having trouble affording groceries, forcing them to make difficult choices.   Looking to the upcoming term, Gallant said she will continue her fight to keep taxes low.  According to Elections Canada, there was a 70.87 per cent voter turnout Monday in Algonquin-Renfrew-Pembroke. That translated into 65,564 of 92,517 registered electors casting ballots across the riding.  Publicized events must be open to the public We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle content                   NEW TO YOU SALE: New-to-You sale at Wesley United Church PEMBROKE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: It’s time for the season closer for the Pembroke Symphony Orchestra The orchestra and principal conductor Eve Legault invite you to attend the final concert of this season our Made in Canada: Stars of the Valley concert Reserve your tickets now through the Box Office at 343-361-3205 SPRING RUMMAGE SALE: All Saints Anglican Church at 1173 Victoria Street in Petawawa is holding a rummage sale on May 3 from 9 a.m METAPHYSICAL & SPIRITUAL SHOW: The 3rd Annual Metaphysical and Spiritual Show Admission to the public is $2 and the proceeds go to Care Animal Rescue and Valley Animal Rescue LIVE MUSIC AT THE LEGION: Pitch Black provides the musical entertainment today from 7 p.m at Royal Canadian Legion Pembroke Branch 72 located at 202 Pembroke St EUCHRE: Petawawa Legion Branch 517 hosts euchre every Sunday from 1 p.m We play a round-robin style and you do not have to bring a partner to play with You can attend alone or bring others with you We have volunteers here to fill the tables if necessary CIVITAN BINGO: The Greater Petawawa Civitan Club hosts a weekly bingo in the Petawawa Civic Centre Hall Bingo details can be found on the Civitan Club’s website Please contact the club directly for all inquiries GOSPEL MUSIC CONCERT: Spring Fling Gospel Music Concert recording artists and radio hosts Curtis and Esther Prins Pastor Dave Henderson and the Christian Heritage Rangers Incorporated The next Community Watch meeting will be held on May 5 at 7 p.m LEARN TAI CHI: Classes for all abilities in a fun and friendly learning environment Beginner classes are Tuesdays each week at 9:30 a.m conveniently located at 454 Miller Street in Pembroke A one-time membership of $20 allows you to participate in all club events Upper Ottawa Valley Tai Chi Club 613-735-2441 PARENT SUPPORT GROUP: The Renfrew County Drop-In Parent Support Group for parents and caregivers of children ages 12-25 facing mental health or addiction challenges Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario Renfrew County Enter the myFM building through the rear parking lot doors and take the stairs to the 2nd floor share information and resources and build your sense of community in a safe confidential space hosted and facilitated by Pleo Family Peer Supporters SOUP AND SANDWICH: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 517 Petawawa has soup and sandwiches every Wednesday from 11:30 a.m Different soup every week and two kinds of sandwiches ANNUAL YARDSALE: The Rankin Culture and Recreation Centre will be holding its annual yard sale on Saturday If you would like to help out by donating clean and working items to the sale they can be dropped off between 9 a.m For more information call Muriel 613-735-0224 LIVE MUSIC AT THE LEGION: Stereo Typical provides the musical entertainment today from 7 p.m INTRO TO LANDSCAPE DESIGN: The Petawawa Horticultural Society presents ‘Choosing and Placing Plants for a Thriving Garden – a quick into to landscape design with Audrey Gravelle’ on May 12 from 7 p.m at the Royal Canadian Legion Petawawa Branch 517 A beginner-friend presentation that will guide you through the principles of landscape design We will cover how to select the right plants for your environment and how thoughtful placement can create a balanced HORSESHOE REGISTRATION: Mixed Adult Horseshoe Registration Horseshoes play will be on Tuesday evenings PETAWAWA HOUSE CONCERTS: Presents Kyle Burghout with Jane Cory accompanied by Tyson Chen and Alanna Jennish on Tuesday call Karen 343 544-8512 or Alastair 613 602-6517 To pay by etransfer email alastair.macdonald.2017@gmail.com EGANVILLE GENEALOGY CLUB: The Eganville Genealogy Club meets the second Wednesday of each month at the Echo Centre LIVE MUSIC AT THE LEGION: Spare Change provides the musical entertainment today from 7 p.m HERITAGE CENTRE SPEAKER SERIES: Beginning at 6:30 p.m at the Upper Ottawa Valley Heritage Centre in Pembroke popular author Paul Ozorak will draw from his book Tales of the Ottawa Valley which delves into ghost stories and UFO sightings from right here in the Ottawa Valley Admission is by donation and refreshments will be available The heritage centre also has copies of Ozorak’s book,”Tales of the Ottawa Valley: History with a bit of humour” available for purchase please contact the Upper Ottawa Valley Heritage Centre at (613) 735-0517 or email curator@uovheritagecentre.ca LOG CABIN QUILTERS: Pembroke Log Cabin Quilters meet once a month at 1163 Victoria Street Whether you are an experienced quilter or a beginner is social time and meeting begins at 7 p.m CASUAL CHOIR: The Pembroke Public Library hosts Casual Choir at Fitzy’s Sports Bar on Wednesday Then Casual Choir is the perfect fit for you We welcome everyone to a relaxed evening filled with fun ACCESSABILITY WEEK GATHERING: Celebrate National AccessAbility Week with Us Join the Petawawa Accessibility Advisory Committee in recognizing National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) — a time to celebrate the contributions of Canadians to paint a square for our Community Quilt ; learn more about accessibility initiatives in Petawawa and chat with committee members; and enjoy live music by local entertainer Adam Fieldhouse This event is just one part of our week-long celebration and resources that highlight the importance of accessibility and inclusion at Wesley United Church in Fellowship Hall available at the church office 613-735-6132 or call Ruth at 613-635-7537 SPRING PLANT SALE: The Petawawa Horticultural Society is holding its spring plant sale on May 24 from 8 a.m to noon at the Petawawa Container Market near the Civic Centre For more information visit petawawahorticultural.ca SPRING CONCERT: Canadian Military Wives Choir Petawawa presents their spring concert Stock and Barrel provides the musical entertainment today from 7 p.m THE ECHO BOOK CLUB: The Echo Book Club meets from 12:30 – 2:00 p.m Format is “come and tell us about a good book you read” List of books discussed can be emailed to attendees PEMBROKE WHITE CANE CLUB: The next regular meeting will be held on Wednesday in Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Hall on Irving Street in Pembroke The White Cane Club is a local Chapter of the Canadian Council of the Blind (CCB) which is the voice of the Blind in Canada All blind or partly sighted people along with sighted guides are welcome to join our meetings held on the fourth Wednesday of the month for more information contact Gerry Frketich at 613-401-0042 QUILT SHOW: Pembroke Log Cabin Quilters Guild is presenting its 2025 Quilt Show ‘Yesterday and Tomorrow’ at the Petawawa Civic Centre LIVE MUSIC AT THE LEGION: Better Times provides the musical entertainment today from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Royal Canadian Legion Pembroke Branch 72 located at 202 Pembroke St. E. in Pembroke.  SUNSET HORSE SANCTUARY FUNDRAISER: On June 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m at Canyon Creek Farm, 297 Barron Canyon Road. Open house, tack, garden plant sale. Entry $5, $3 for 12 and under. Pony and horse rides. Rent a table to sell used tack, bring refundable bottles to offset farrier, vet, and feed bills. Snacks, BBQ, visit the beautiful new equestrian centre. All proceeds to the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of horses.   GRIEF SUPPORT FOR PEMBROKE AND AREA: Hosted by Marianhill, support for grief and bereavement each first Thursday of the month. 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at 600 Cecilia Street – Marianhill Meeting Room. No registration required. Information – call 613-633-4316.  PETAWAWA HOUSE CONCERTS: Presents Myles Davidson (vocals/guitar) on Friday, June 6 from 7 to 9 p.m. Suggested donation $25. To enquire, call Karen 343 544-8512 or Alastair 613 602-6517. To pay by etransfer email alastair.macdonald.2017@gmail.com.   BEACHBURG ANNUAL YARDSALE AND BBQ: June 7 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. BBQ at St. Andrew’s United Church. Vendors welcome. For info contact Fram 613-504-1362 or Sandy 613-582-7115.  GIANT BOOK SALE: On Saturday, June 7th, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Pembroke Public Library is having its annual book sale – uncover hidden gems and treasures waiting to be discovered! Generous donations towards the fundraising for a new dropbox will be greatly appreciated. Books are by donation and AV Materials cost $2 a piece.  POTLUCK CLUB: On Saturday, June 14th, 1-2 p.m. Whether you’re vegetarian or not, if you have a vegetarian dish that you’re proud of and would love to share with community members, bring it along to the Pembroke Public Library’s Potluck Club. Call 613-732-8844 to register.  CASUAL CHOIR: The Pembroke Public Library presents Casual Choir at Ashes Family Restaurant and Arcade on Wednesday, June 18th, 6 – 7 p.m. Think you can’t sing, don’t read music, and shy away from performing? Then Casual Choir is the perfect fit for you! We welcome everyone to a relaxed evening filled with fun, classic tunes from the 60s to the 90s, alongside great food and drinks. Come join the fun! Call 613-732-8844 to register by June 11th.  A person pulled from a burning residence on Mary Street in Pembroke this morning has died in hospital We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentAs of 2 p.m officers with the Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) remain at the scene of the structure fire which is located within the 300 block of Mary Street A detour remains in place as of Friday afternoon and it is expected to remain in effect for some time while the Pembroke Fire Department monitors the situation and the investigation continues Police request that the public avoid the area if possible the Pembroke Fire Department and the OPP responded to the structure fire Pembroke Fire Chief Scott Selle said they initially responded with one truck and the duty crew and that upon on arrival all available resources were called to the scene Firefighters began an aggressive attack on the fire he said adding that significant smoke and fire damage was sustained throughout the building A total of 27 firefighters with four Pembroke Fire Department vehicles responded to the incident Police reported that one person was pulled from the structure and taken to the Pembroke Regional Hospital where they later succumbed to their injuries While the cause of death has not yet been confirmed investigators believe there is no imminent threat to public safety The identity of the deceased person has not been confirmed yet either “The Pembroke Fire Department would like to thank the OPP and Red Cross for their support during this ongoing incident,” Selle said The OPP investigation is ongoing under the direction of the Upper Ottawa Valley Crime Unit with assistance of OPP Forensic Identification Services (FIS) the Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM) and in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario (OCCO) and the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service (OFPS) Welcome to the Pembroke Observer and News photo quiz We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentEach week, you’ll be faced with a new photo, taken somewhere around the valley and it’ll be up to you to figure out where it was taken.   Submit your guesses by Wednesday, May 7 at noon by phone (613-732-3691 ext. 3) or email (adixon@postmedia.com).   Correct guessers will have their names printed along with the answer two weeks from now in our May 15 issue.   Each week we’ll have a new photo quiz for you.   The answer to our April 17 Photo Quiz is the Pembroke Public Library on Victoria Street in the city. Congratulations to our correct guessers this week, Cathy van Starkenburg, John Delbert Hamilton, Shirley Mullen, Debra Lloyd, Ralph McVean and Jamie Kargus.  While Algonquin-Renfrew-Pembroke remained blue during Monday night’s federal election Liberal fortunes appear to be on the rise in the riding We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentVeteran journalist Cyndi Mills finished her second campaign bolstered by a far better result than 2021 securing second place behind Conservative incumbent Cheryl Gallant with 25,338 votes Mills ended in third place with 11,335 ballots narrowly getting edged out by the NDP As the advanced poll results were being released early in the evening supporters gathered at the Clarion Hotel in Pembroke were hopeful that Mills might finally break Gallant’s 25-year hold on the riding Mills had indeed defeated the Tory in Deep River Arnprior and some polls in Pembroke and Renfrew party faithful were elated to see the networks call the election for Prime Minister Mark Carney and another minority government “The most important thing is Mark Carney won,” Mills told the room “It was such an honour to be part of that team and to run under him We have the leader who will stand up to Trump right now.”  “This is an incredible ‘E’ Day,” she said. “It’s the best team and the best performance we’ve had in many years. I’m so completely grateful. It was worth it. We are all stronger for this journey.”  Crossing the finish line with 37.8 per cent of the vote, the Liberals here enjoyed their best result since the 2000 election when former MP Hec Clouthier took 39 per cent. For campaign manager Meredith Caplan Jamieson this was evidence that the Liberals are making a comeback in a riding once represented for decades by Len Hopkins in Ottawa and Sean Conway at Queen’s Park.  “We’ve turned the narrative that this is a deeply blue Conservative riding,” she said. “People felt emboldened that they could be proud to be Liberals here again.”  During the 35-day campaign, the party’s contingent of volunteers made 13,000 phone calls, knocked on 1,500 doors and distributed 2,000 signs. Jamieson also felt Mills, now an experienced candidate, was the difference.  “Cyndi just resonates with people,” she added. “She’s hardworking, she showed up everywhere and she’s so likeable. Our positive campaign is a contrast to what people have been feeling.”  After misappropriating $840,000 in client funds local lawyer Mike Conroy has had his license suspended on an interlocutory basis at a hearing before the Law Society Tribunal We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle content“This admitted history of misappropriation easily demonstrates dishonesty and lack of integrity such that there are reasonable grounds for believing that there is a significant risk of harm to members of the public,” the order stated. The late March hearing saw his license suspended on an interlocutory basis, which means it is during the course of the legal action, and the wording in the ruling was very damning to the lawyer of the Pembroke firm of Johnson, Fraser and Conroy. “Mr. Conroy cannot be trusted to fulfill his obligations to clients and to the administration of justice in the future,” the report stated. “Mr. Conroy’s usefulness to his clients and his reputation within the profession have been so compromised by his misappropriation that continued practice would give rise to a significant risk of harm to members of the public and to the public interest in the administration of justice.” The motion for an interlocutory suspension was brought because Conroy reported he had misappropriated approximately $840,000 from client trust accounts. He did so right before he learned of a spot audit which would have likely caught the missing funds. “Even though the lawyer self-reported, reimbursed the funds and was cooperative, the panel rejected his request for restrictions and a supervision order,” it was stated in the summary of the hearing. The report also noted revocation of a license, absent exceptional circumstances, is the presumptive penalty for misappropriation. At present Conroy has not presented evidence of exceptional circumstances but that may change in the future. The findings were “there is a significant risk of harm to members of the public as misappropriating trust funds is an allegation that bears directly on the lawyer’s integrity and trustworthiness and there is a reasonable prospect of revocation.” On January 30, 2025, counsel for Conroy reported misappropriation of $739,000 to the Law Society right before a spot audit was to begin. In a subsequent interview he admitted misappropriating approximately $840,000. The hearing documents noted there have been no client complaints. As well, Mr. Conroy arranged for funds to be deposited to reimburse the misappropriated trust monies. Another lawyer has been engaged to supervise his practice. Conroy had no previous disciplinary history. In the findings for an interlocutory order, it was noted he misappropriated a substantial amount of client money. “He did so over an extended period of time,” the report stated. “Where monies are misappropriated from a mixed trust account, misappropriation is not necessarily detected as money taken from clients can effectively be replaced by money from new clients.” The report also showed once Conroy learned there was to be a spot audit, he consulted legal counsel. He then disclosed his misappropriations. “After Mr. Conroy was about to be caught, he acted properly,” the report stated. The findings show the misappropriations took place over four years. In 2021, $208,306.53 was taken and $100,000 in 2022. In 2024, amounts of $200,000, $185,000 and $46,194.40 were removed, with the final amount in late December 2024, a month prior to the spot audit. The findings in the case against Ken Conroy showed he stole $105,000 from an estate client. He also took $88,845.77 and $185,000 from two other clients. He was convicted in 2018. Debbi Christinck is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter working out of The Eganville Leader. LJI is funded by the Government of Canada. Our riding may have a new name in Algonquin –Renfrew-Pembroke (A-R-P) but its borders remain the same – what will be decided today by its residents is who will represent it We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentHere’s a rundown for voters heading out to the polls today and are seeking information about voting and the candidates roughly 25.5 per cent of electors in the riding already cast their vote in the advance polls Poll staff members can assist with any other needs They’ll be listed on your ballot in alphabetical order and are listed below in the same order This website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The City of Pembroke has scheduled a pair of road closures on Wednesday April 30 in order to allow for some infrastructure repair work We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentEffective April 30, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Isabella Street between Moffat Street and Doran Street and also River Road between Mackay Street and Irving Street, will be closed to traffic.  Emergency services only will be permitted in these locations a press release from the city reads.   The City of Pembroke asks that drivers always respect the posted construction signage and warns that delays resulting from the closures can be expected.   WHITEWATER REGION – The Township of Whitewater Region is advising residents close to area rivers and lakes traditionally affected by high water and flows to take action to protect property and monitor water conditions We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentThe Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) Pembroke District said in a press release on April 24 that recent rainfall combined with warmer temperatures has melted most of the remaining snow locally “Remnants of the snowpack through the northern portion of the Ottawa River watershed are expected to continue to melt sustaining and/or elevating levels and flows This combined effect is causing the water levels and flows of the Ottawa River to rise,” the release stated MNR – Pembroke District announced a “Flood Warning” was in effect for areas along the Ottawa River According to the Township of Whitewater Region residents who have been affected by high water and flow conditions in the past should take necessary action to protect/secure any vulnerable property in proximity to rivers and lakes and closely monitor developing conditions and regularly check for updated messages Pre-filled sandbags are available at the Westmeath Public Works Garage located at 1798 Westmeath Road The Township said it will continue to replenish filled sandbags at this location based on usage If additional sand/sandbags or support is needed The Township’s Fire and Public Works Departments are monitoring roads for flooding and potential closures Municipal511.ca is being updated to report impacted roads as they become known Whitewater advises residents in low lying areas affected by flooding that access may be restricted by emergency services the Westmeath and LaPasse boat launches are closed to the public Boaters are asked to stay off the Ottawa River in flood-affected areas as vessel wakes can worsen conditions for residents and responders Those residents with restricted road access are being asked to prepare to evacuate if needed Those residents that voluntarily evacuate are encouraged to do so with family or friends it is recommended that the home’s utilities be turned off before leaving for safety reasons The Township of Whitewater Region asks that evacuations be reported to the township by calling 613-646-2282 Those requiring emergency lodging should also contact the township Whitewater Township can be contacted at 613-646-2282 from Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m The township advises anyone in need of immediate and urgent assistance or requiring evacuation outside of the hours noted above all residents should monitor weather conditions check for updated messaging and exercise caution near fast moving water,” the press release from Whitewater Region concluded  Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board (ORRPB)   Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF)  Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU)  presented by Canadian Nuclear Laboratories returns this Sunday This charity event will take place in downtown Pembroke and includes the 2K Superhero Run for kids 12 and under brought to you by Bradley Law and a 5K timed run brought to you by MacEwen’s We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle content“This year’s event will support the Pembroke Regional Hospital Foundation’s highest priority equipment needs,” said Leigh Costello Pembroke Regional Hospital Foundation community fundraising specialist Scott Coombes said there will be amazing prizes to be won for participants’ fundraising efforts “Those who raise $100 or more will be entered in a draw for a one-year family membership for the Best Western Pembroke Pool The top overall fundraiser will win a $500 prize Participants can make use of the online fundraising tools to share and raise pledges easily online,” Coombes said Tammy Blackmore is the organizer of the kids’ run “Grab your superhero costume and embrace your superpowers all while making a difference,” Blackmore said “Meet many of your favourite superheroes during our 2km themed family run You will receive a bag at the start line to collect treats from Batman Super Girl and many other superheroes and friends along the route Registration for the 2K Superhero Run for kids is $10 each and registration for the 5K timed run is $35 however in-person registration will still be available on Friday at the Best Western Hotel lobby or the morning of the event up until 9:30 a.m Official Heroes Run for Healthcare wicking t-shirts can be purchased at the event for $10 each Please note that Pembroke Street West will be closed during the event on Sunday OttawaNewsOPP investigating suspicious fire in Pembroke, Ont.By Ted RaymondPublished: April 24, 2025 at 7:44AM EDT is once again seeking re-election in the federal riding of Algonquin–Renfrew–Pembroke under the banner of the Conservative Party of Canada previously known as Renfrew–Nipissing–Pembroke encompasses all of Renfrew County and a portion of Nipissing District We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentBefore entering politics, she worked as a group insurance executive and managed a family-owned professional practice alongside her husband, Jamie. The couple resides in Pembroke and has four daughters.” Her time as MP has not been without controversies which have included questionable comments in the press; her lack of participation in some all-candidates meetings; her being the only member of Parliament to vote against a government motion re-affirming support for the Paris Agreement; among others. Gallant has consistently secured re-election in subsequent federal elections following her original election in 2000, often with a significant share of the vote. Most recently in the 2019 election, she won her seventh term with 52.67 per cent of the vote, and in 2021, her eighth term with 49.5 per cent of the vote. Gallant’s current campaign emphasizes her experience in representing the interests of Algonquin–Renfrew–Pembroke residents. Her platform highlights a commitment to rural communities, support for the military, and advocacy for individual rights. OttawaNewsFlood watch issued for Ottawa River between Pembroke, Britannia BeachBy William EltheringtonPublished: April 22, 2025 at 4:17PM EDT The Upper Ottawa Valley Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is conducting a police training exercise in the area on April 14 and 15 For more information or to register a loved one with Project Lifesaver call the Dementia Society of Renfrew County at 1-888-411-2067. Pembroke – The well-known owners of Giant Tiger have been recognized for their contributions to the community with a special award from Mayor Ron Gervais During the operations committee meeting of April 15 Mayor Gervais announced Lou and Lisa Hammill had been selected as the very worthy recipients of the Mayor’s Award for 2024 dedicated and faithful individuals who contribute to the fabric of what is the beautiful City of Pembroke,” he said And you’ll understand why I say that in a moment.” He shared how he had received a phone call just after the municipal election back in 2010 from Mr who introduced himself and said he and his wife would like to talk to him about various issues “We met and had a great conversation about Pembroke,” he recalled primarily talking about the businesses in the downtown “And I quickly realized that if I wanted input about the business community no matter where it was in the City of Pembroke I just had to call either Lou or Lisa and I would find out what I needed to know at that time.” He said the Hammills have been very good to speak to him on any issues whether it’s the dynamics of the downtown or suggestions on other things that could improve the city but the entire City of Pembroke,” he stated “And I know from my various dealings with the community over a large number of different projects over the years that Lou and Lisa have been a big help and have a big heart helping various individuals and organizations Mayor Gervais said he assumed it must be hard at times to continue to try doing great works it gets out that you’re one of those individuals that are constantly doing things for the benefit of the City of Pembroke I truly respect the various things that you have done over the years and obviously a great effort has been extended to remain anonymous through various projects and various things that have happened with the City of Pembroke over the last number of years particularly in the last two to three years with the challenges that the city has faced there is an ongoing presence behind the scenes,” he added “And you might not know unless you are in the thick of it or individuals that are front line trying to address the various concerns that the community has.” Mayor Gervais said the Hammills’ many contributions do not go unnoticed adding he was not going into any real detail as to what their contributions consisted of and I know it from different items that have come forward that your hands have been in various items making sure that the City of Pembroke are respected and get the care that they need you exemplify what it means to be leaders and volunteers,” he added “You exhibit all that is good of a citizen of our beautiful City of Pembroke as mayor I feel it is important to recognize you this evening.” He thanked the Hammills for all they have done noting despite their efforts to remain behind the scenes he and others recognize what they do on behalf of everyone calling on the Hammills to accept the award Hammill said the family moved to Pembroke in 2008 when they purchased the Giant Tiger business from Russ and Susan Kerr “They were just wonderful people to transfer the ownership of store number three here in Pembroke,” he remarked He noted a lot of things they have done would not have been possible without the help of the city and we felt like that just from the time we got here What a wonderful community and just all the neat things that happen here “Just the simple fact that there’s caring people here who want to see the best that Pembroke can be,” he added and we’ll fill our days when we retire with lots of other stuff that will take us to new journeys.” He credited his wife for being a huge influence in what he is able to do “I couldn’t do it without my wife and I can’t say enough about what Lisa does behind the scenes People have no idea what she has done for the store and the community and this will be well displayed in our store,” he said First-time federal candidate Randy Briand has entered the election race representing the relatively new United Party of Canada in his home riding of Algonquin-Renfrew-Pembroke These days he’s back in the Ottawa Valley, where as a certified organic farmer, he is the owner/operator of Chateaubriand Organic Farm with his wife Mary. The couple has three children, Shawna, Linnaea, and Mitchel. Briand said it was after meeting United Party of Canada leader Grant Abraham and learning what the party stood for, that he realized for the first time, he could truly align with a party that supported his belief system, without him having to compromise. Heading into his first federal campaign, Briand said this election is a crucial one if Canadians are to stop what he believes is the downward spiral of the nation. “I recognized that Canadians are clearly in the battle for the soul of our nation,” Briand said. “I was constantly looking for a choice or an option [to vote for] and I was always telling myself I have to compromise by choosing the lesser of the evils. I just, at one point, realized that our country was broken, the system is broken and that our party system, as it is, is not representing people and it’s not working.” In the United Party he discovered a federal party that aligned with Canadian culture as he remembered it from his youth, along with his morals, and his belief system. Briand said his priorities are defending Canadian sovereignty from globalists like the World Economic Forum, World Health Organization, and United Nations; securing Canada’s borders with responsible immigration; protecting children by banning gender ideology and repealing Bill C-4; and ending ‘death culture’, specifically abortion and medical assistance in dying (MAiD). He said he doesn’t recognize Canada as it currently is and believes the politicians of the traditional parties have sent the main pillars of Canadian society into a spiral. According to Briand, the sense of accountability he grew up with and experienced as a teacher and a member of the military, is not present in our current federal system. Briand said rule of law means everyone is accountable and is a system that is equitable for everyone. “And yet we see scandal after scandal. I’m talking now specifically about government overreach during the [Truckers’] Convoy. We saw there were bank accounts seized and then an unsubstantiated invoking of the Emergencies Act, which we know was not justified. The Liberals are appealing it again, but it’s already been proven it was unjustified. Briand said he wants to see the Canadian Forces prioritized and supported so its members are once again inspired and able to ensure that Canadians have safety, security and success. He also wants a clear plan for elderly Canadians, who he feels are currently not being respected as they should and not properly supported. As a first-time candidate with a new party in a riding that has voted Conservative for 25 years, he faces an uphill battle. He argues that people shouldn’t use a fear of ‘splitting the vote’ as a reason to not vote for the United Party. The United Party of Canada candidate said Canada is on a very tight timeline to reverse direction and so change is needed now. “Not only do I feel that change is critical, I know that come April 28th, voting the United Party to hold the main parties accountable and to speak for the Canadian people, can ignite a new Canadian hope. And I know that if we spark it here in the Valley, it will ignite nationally,” he said. The Pembroke Master says he demonstrates a ‘strong commitment to academic and collegiate Cambridge’ Chris Smith, the Master of Pembroke and former Cabinet Minister, has announced that he will be running for the position of University Chancellor. The House of Lords member was the Secretary of State for Culture, Media, and Sport under Tony Blair, and served as the Chairman of the Environment Agency from 2008-2014. In 2015, he became the Master of Pembroke. Smith was the first MP in the UK to voluntarily come out as gay, and in 1997 became the first openly gay Cabinet Minister anywhere in the world.  Smith says: “I have always set great store by openness and transparency in public life; it is important always to stand up for what you believe in.” The Pembroke Master has also declared that he demonstrates a “strong commitment to academic and collegiate Cambridge,” having completed an undergraduate degree in English and PhD at Pembroke. As “someone who has a record of successfully leading a College, and who understands the fundamental importance of the relationship between the University and the College,” Smith believes he has “the right background to become Chancellor”. Smith told Varsity that one of his principal focuses as Chancellor would be academic freedom, which he described as being “thrown into sharp relief by what is happening across the Atlantic”. He added that universities are “above all places that are about seeking truth and evidence and fact,” which is becoming increasingly important in a “world of misinformation”. He also believes that the Chancellor has the potential to “act as a voice reminding the government of how important universities are,” both “in terms of what they represent for the bettering of society” and “how important they are economically”. Smith also acknowledged the importance of environmental issues for students at the University. He stated that, while the University “already has grand ambitions” regarding net zero targets and measures in response to climate change, “We need to make sure that delivery follows rhetoric.” In 2021, Smith oversaw Pembroke’s commitment to fully divest from fossil fuels by the end of 2023. He has also overseen the construction of the £82 million Mill Lane development, which offers nearly 100 new student rooms. The site uses air-source heat pumps, solar panels, and rainwater capture methods. The Pembroke master has also placed emphasis on the importance of preserving freedom of speech, acknowledging that this “sometimes be uncomfortable” and “means being prepared to listen to views with which you don’t agree, and which in some cases may offend you”. He also described himself as being “in favour of contesting unpalatable views”. “A combination of a record of successful public service” and “an intrinsic commitment to Cambridge” are factors which Smith believes makes him a suitable candidate for Chancellor. He added: “Cambridge is in my blood.” Smith’s candidacy has been endorsed by Mayor of Greater Manchester and Fitzwilliam alumnus, Andy Burnham. Burnham says of Smith: “His lifelong approach of promoting academic and cultural excellence, whilst opening up the widest possible access to it, marks him out as the right leader for our University in its next phase”. Newnham alumnus Julia Neuberger, a member of the House of Lords and Britain’s second female rabbi, describes Smith as having been “devoted to Cambridge since his undergraduate days,” adding: “He’s a passionate academic, a seasoned politician, a man with a cross party set of friendships and allies, and someone who always gives of his all.” There are six other candidates running for Chancellor. These are business owner and activist Gina Miller, Queens’ College president Mohamed El-Erian, former BP chief executive Lord Browne, Cambridge Astrophysics professor Wyn Evans, Education Professor Tony Booth, and broadcaster and comedian Sandi Toksvig. Sandi Toksvig enters Cambridge Chancellor race The Chancellor serves as the formal and ceremonial head of the University, and has little executive power over the University. However, they do have the authority to call and chair Congregations of the Regent House, the University’s governing body. They are also responsible for deciding certain contested and unresolved matters on appeal. The current Chancellor is David Sainsbury, former chairman of Sainsbury’s supermarkets, who was elected by the Senate in October 2011. Varsity is the independent newspaper for the University of Cambridge, established in its current form in 1947. In order to maintain our editorial independence, our print newspaper and news website receives no funding from the University of Cambridge or its constituent Colleges. We are therefore almost entirely reliant on advertising for funding and we expect to have a tough few months and years ahead. In spite of this situation, we are going to look at inventive ways to look at serving our readership with digital content and of course in print too! Therefore we are asking our readers, if they wish, to make a donation from as little as £1, to help with our running costs. Many thanks, we hope you can help! First published in 1947, Varsity is the independent student newspaper for the University of Cambridge. All content © 1996-2025 Varsity Publications Ltd. Voters from Pembroke and across Canada cast their ballots in the federal election on Monday Below are the latest results updated for you in real time We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentWhile residents vote for their local members of parliament, it was Liberal Leader Mark Carney and the Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre who were vying to become the next prime minister. The majority of polls closed at 9:30 p.m., in Ontario, and at 10:30 p.m. Postmedia’s decision desk projected a Liberal win. The maps and other graphics below show results as they were counted. Zoom in to find your riding, zoom out to see results from across the country. Refresh your browser for the latest updates. city officials are faced with a difficult choice: invest millions in costly repairs or dream big and build a state-of-the-art multi-sport complex a public-private partnership (P3) model is being considered—but can the city afford such an ambitious project Welcome to part five of our How Canada Wins series What happens when a city’s aging rinks and pools can no longer keep up with community needs the PMC is 74 and its beloved Kinsmen Pool that underwent emergency repairs in 2024 to replace its external structure the city is asking a bold question: Is it time to invest in a modern but council is actively exploring the possibility of a public-private partnership to make it happen We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentFor the last decade various Pembroke councils have debated what to do with the Kinsmen Pool But progress in doing slow was slow and as time moved on the cost to replace the facility climbed to over $20M Then late in 2023 the long-standing project of replacing the pool was put on pause Notionally this is a good idea to have multiple services in one location The issue is cost,” said Pembroke Mayor Ron Gervais Abdallah is enthusiastic about what such a facility could mean to the community “The proposed recreation hub is more than just an aquatic facility or ice rinks–it’s a potential hub for community life A recreation hub was the number one community need identified in the recent City of Pembroke Recreation Master Plan and other related amenities under one roof This would be a game-changer not only for Pembroke but also for the surrounding communities Such a facility could attract new residents and businesses while enhancing the quality of life for current residents,” he said Gervais explained the typical way a P3 build functions “Council has been told that we ought to review a P3 model wherein the facility is built by a third party and the city leases it back and eventually owns it I have already received concerns about this process as we might eventually own an old building at the end of this if not properly kept up,” he said Abdallah noted as Pembroke explores the possibility of a new recreation hub it’s important to emphasize that the P3 model is just one of several options that can be considered is to explore the possibility of creating a new recreation hub for the City of Pembroke regardless of the specific model chosen,” Abdallah said the Pembroke and Area Community Centre (PACC) was listed in ‘good’ condition but needing work to keep it from falling to ‘fair’ the PACC needs an estimated $5.5M in repairs in the next several years including the replacement of the refrigerated floor slab The cost estimate in the report was pre-COVID so the cost today is likely higher than $5.5M The Pembroke Memorial Centre was listed as ‘fair’ but headed for ‘poor’ and while “adequately maintained” was “reaching end of useful service life” according to McIntosh Perry the PMC needs $7M in work in the next one to five years “If we do not proceed with a multiplex then we must reinvest in our current facilities to keep them going and cannot afford to not do anything we need to invest if the investigation takes too long as what happened with the pool,” Gervais said Abdallah said Pembroke is at a crossroads in its current recreation facilities planning road map “Do we explore the possibility of a new recreation hub or do we spend millions of dollars on maintaining and upgrading our current aging facilities rather than being limited to a single approach,” Abdallah said The mayor explained that a recreation hub/sports complex steering committee was launched last year with Councillor Ian Kuehl and Councillor Troy Purcell being the city’s representatives The Township of Laurentian Valley council also has representatives on the committee but hasn’t firmly committed to any sort of project at this time Petawawa and Whitewater Region were also approached but he does not believe there’s anything tangible and added council has not received a report back from the steering committee yet Pembroke city staff are working on a request for proposal to see if there are interested private investors and what their proposals would be Abdallah added the steering committee’s task is to develop terms of reference and hire an engineering consultant firm to assist in identifying community needs for a recreation hub and recommend the best location and financial/operational model Abdallah admits the cost of such an ambitious project would be significant but hopes a P3 or other finance/operational model could make the dream a reality without placing an overwhelming financial burden on taxpayers private investors would fund and operate the facility recouping their investment over time through user fees and leases [including the city leasing the recreational facilities] Government grants for energy efficient facilities are available through the Green and Inclusive Community Building Program which recently awarded $25 million to Whitby and North Bay for their new sportsplex facilities leasable spaces are other means to raise funds for any proposed facility,” he said “I personally have huge concerns as to the cost of such a grandiose facility instead of repairing our rinks and proceeding to build a new pool now that the current pool has been repaired for now,” the mayor said The private investors who would fund and operate the facility likely over decades until the time of the agreement was fulfilled and the building turned over to the city The Canadian Union of Public Employees warns that sometimes the need to make money for the private partners coupled with a P3’s higher borrowing and transaction costs can lead to an increase in the cost of the services provided “If the fees to the public are too large then less people will use it and this defeats the purpose a better solution is having other municipalities equally contribute to regional facilities but I am doubtful at this time if that will occur,” Gervais said We just finished a budget with over an eight per cent increase and started a transit project that I believe will be costly when the treasurer report is analyzed about use of reserve funds which I understand but it is the cost and the ability to pay for these folks.” Abdallah said he wants to stress that any due diligence process into a new recreation hub project is strictly exploratory “If it’s discovered that it’s not feasible then we circle back and as staff have referenced in their asset management report we debenture over a long term to fix and maintain our current recreational facilities compare the results and make informed decisions for the benefit of our community,” Abdallah said Whether Pembroke takes the leap and builds a multi-sport complex or opts to maintain its aging facilities one thing is certain: the city must invest in recreation if it wants to remain an attractive place to live and grow the future of local sports and community spaces hangs in the balance–will the “Big Dream” become reality The County of Renfrew has purchased the property at 330 Boundary Road East in Pembroke to be used as a future Paramedic Base for the County of Renfrew Paramedic Service It is anticipated construction will be completed in late 2026 The County of Renfrew is moving forward with a new Paramedic Base to help enhance 911 response to the City of Pembroke and the surrounding municipalities of Laurentian Valley The County has purchased 330 Boundary Road East The new location will replace the current base near the Pembroke Regional Hospital which has housed the Paramedic Service for more than 30 years which will be administered by the County’s Real Estate Division will redevelop and redesign the existing 10,500 square foot building on the property into a new innovative space for the County of Renfrew Paramedic Service with construction to commence in early 2025 and anticipated completion in late 2026 The new location will also create an opportunity to increase the ability for the Paramedic Service to provide programs such as Mesa a Renfrew County Virtual Triage and Assessment Centre (RC VTAC) clinic specialized response for remote access incidents in these areas and support operations across Renfrew County The close proximity to the County Administration Building made the purchase of this property appealing and offers greater collaboration with other departments are delighted to hear about the new purpose for the building and the lasting impact it will have on the community They are excited to see how this transformation will benefit the area for many years to come This project will be similar to the new Paramedic Base in Eganville the County purchased the former O’Grady Brothers Limited Garage at the corner of Highway 41 and County Road 512 (Foymount Road) and converted it into a functional space which boasts 2,500 square feet of office space and includes shower and changing facilities quiet quarters and meeting space in addition to a 4,000 square-foot four-bay garage to house Paramedic Service vehicles Jason Davis                          Director Development and Property              613-735-7288 Tina Peplinskie                    Media Relations Coordinator                             613-735-7288 © 2020 County of Renfrew, 9 International Drive, Pembroke ON K8A 6W5, Phone: 1-800-273-0183, Fax: 613-735-2081 | Staff Login | Staff Email The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) — Pembroke District has issued a ‘Flood Warning’ for areas along the Ottawa River particularly between Pembroke and Britannia in response to rising water levels triggered by rapid snowmelt and recent rainfall The warning remains in effect until Friday We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentIn a statement the Ontario MNR said warmer temperatures have accelerated the melting of the remaining snowpack particularly in the northern parts of the Ottawa River watershed is contributing to significantly elevated river flows and water levels Water levels in these locations are expected to surpass flood thresholds as early as Friday although the peak levels are forecast to remain below those recorded during the historic flooding of 2019 especially those who have experienced high water levels in the past are urged to take precautionary measures to safeguard properties and remain alert to changing conditions The public is advised to monitor official updates and maintain supervision of children and pets near shorelines The ministry is tracking a low-pressure weather system expected to move into the region on Friday bringing 10 to 25 mm of rain to Southern Ontario thunderstorms could contribute another 5 to 10 mm of rainfall today and tomorrow particularly in areas south of Parry Sound flooding in low-lying areas is anticipated to persist or worsen in the coming days The Ministry said it will continue to monitor watershed and weather conditions and provide further updates as necessary The Watershed Conditions Statement ‘Water Safety’ for the remainder of Renfrew County has also been extended through May 2 advising of potential dangers from high flows and melting ice for recreational users like boaters residents are encouraged to check the following resources: Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring. Watershed Conditions Statement: Water Safety: High flows and melting ice pose risks, but flooding is not expected. The Upper Ottawa Valley Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is currently investigating a suspicious house fire in Pembroke We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentOn April 23 just before 11 p.m. the Pembroke Fire Department (PFD) received a call for the report of a possible fire around a residence on Bronx Street Pembroke Fire Chief Scott Selle reported that upon arrival firefighters found civilians already attempting to control the fire the fire was quickly brought under control and extinguished by the Pembroke Fire Department Firefighters remained on scene to ensure there was no extension inside the home A total of eight fire fighters with one fire truck responded to the incident OPP investigators have deemed the fire to be suspicious and members of the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP Crime Unit are assisting with the investigation along with an OPP scenes of crime officer (SOCO) Members of the Royal Canadian Legion from Eastern Ontario will be arriving in Pembroke on Friday April 11 for the District “G” Spring Convention We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentBy Sunday April 13, approximately 42 Legions and 109 voting delegates will have arrived in Pembroke for the three-day convention being held at Branch 72 Pembroke. In addition to the delegates there will be numerous spouses, guests and observers visiting Pembroke. The opening of the business session will be in the Branch 72 hall at 9 a.m. on Sunday April 13. There will be a Memorial Service at the Pembroke Cenotaph on Saturday, April 12 at 12:15 p.m. Four wreathes will be placed at the cenotaph by Branch 72, District G, and Provincial and Dominion Command. Padre Dave Norris will be the padre for the Memorial Service. Before the convention is adjourned on Sunday April 13, many issues will have been discussed, and new senior officers will have been elected to serve for the next two years. The guest speaker will be Provincial Chairman Ron Goebel. He is a member of Captain A. Roy Brown, Branch 192 in Carleton Place. He is the Military Service Book chairman as well as a past District “G” commander. For more information on the convention contact Stan Halliday, Branch 72 president at 613-585-1400, or Wanda Lavergne, Br.72 manager, treasurer at 613-732 4815. and beloved community leader Jamie Bramburger was laid to rest on Tuesday The tolling of a church bell could be heard as clergy and family processed up the centre aisle of Holy Trinity towards the alter as Rev. Matthew Brown read from John 11 versus 25 and 26.  In his homily, Brown referenced the tribute to Jamie Bramburger paid by broadcaster Ron MacLean on Hockey Night in Canada on Saturday, March 15 in which he declared Jamie was the second Pembroke Peach, the first having been NHL star Frank Nighbor a century ago.  During Hockey Night in Canada, MacLean said, “I cannot tell you how many folks in Pembroke are just shattered. Jamie’s just 58 years old. There isn’t a circle of life in the Pembroke area that he’s not connected with. Every hundred years or so, Jamie, a Pembroke Peach comes along and that is you. The sweetest statesman. I love you.”  Brown said Jamie Bramburger was many things, to many people.  Brown’s homily led into a video put together and edited by Shawn Behnke that featured many snippets from Jamie’s many on-air moments right from CHVR radio to calling local hockey, fastball, and football games to interviewing former Prime Minister Paul Martin Jr.   “Friends, may hearing Jamie’s voice today be a comfort as we mourn. May seeing the pure heart that he shared with us help us to see and know the very heart of God. And may we know and trust that Jamie is now home,” Brown concluded.  Former MPP Sean Conway delivered an emotional eulogy of his long-time friend Jamie.  He also read from a note he received from Jamie’s son Jason Bramburger, who shared his thoughts about his dad from his and the family’s perspective.  “Since my father’s death, there has been an outpouring of support from across the valley, talking about his numerous contributions to community,” Jason wrote. “But I want to take this time to offer another perspective about my dad; one that is necessarily left out of so many of the other tributes. Make no mistake about it, the only thing my dad loved more than his community was family.”  Jason wrote that one of his favourite memories of his dad was sitting with him at Fenway Park in Boston on a beautiful July night, as they took turns scoring the baseball game.  Both Jamie and Jason were New England Patriots fans. Jason shared the amusing anecdote that his dad watched the games on cable while he streamed them on the internet meaning he was always two or three minutes behind the action on the cable broadcast.  “So dad managed to ruin every game for me because he would text me immediately after a big play before it came on my stream. The only thing worse than having to watch the ‘Miami Miracle’ was already knowing it was going to happen because my dad texted me and told me all about it,” Jason said in his note.  Turning serious again, Jason wrote that his dad led a life of simple pleasures.  Conway concluded by reading from a poem by Ottawa Valley writer, the late Joan Finnigan, titled ‘A Dream of Lilies.”  Visitation was held the day before the funeral on March 17 at the Pembroke Memorial Centre where Jamie Bramburger had provided play-by-play for Pembroke Lumber Kings for decades and took part in Algonquin College’s annual convocation ceremony.   Over the six hours of visitation, 1000s of people paid their final respects and extended sympathies to the Bramburger family. Lumber Kings players volunteered as ushers and a single spotlight above centre ice shone down on a chair draped with a Lumber Kings jersey. The podium where Jamie conducted many on ice ceremonies for the team like championship banner raisings and jersey retirements, stood lonely sentry off to the side at the end of a red carpet. The door to the Bill K (Kutschke) Broadcast Centre in the PMC’s rafters featured a picture of Jamie, and at the base of its steps was a floral bouquet placed with love from the Micksburg Twins fastball team.  Following the funeral service on Tuesday, a luncheon was held downstairs in the church hall, followed by interment in the cemetery of St. George’s Anglican Church at the intersection of Sandy Beach and Doran roads near Alice.  As the funeral procession drove slowly south on Sandy Beach Road towards St. George’s, residents gathered at the end of nearly every driveway making an honour guard of citizenry that demonstrated the love Jamie Bramburger had within the community.  CLARIFICATION: An earlier version of this story included a mis-attributed quote which has now been fixed We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentThe Pembroke community is in shock after the sudden passing of community leader Jamie Bramburger The long-time manager of community and student affairs and current Interim Dean of Algonquin College’s Pembroke Campus died suddenly on March 11 at the age of 58 Those most strongly impacted by his loss are his immediate family his wife Barb and their children Jason (Anna) Bramburger of Montreal and Shauna (Jordan) Kathnelson of Petawawa He was the son of Audrey Bramburger of Alice and the late Frank Bramburger Jamie was predeceased by his brother Arlin Bramburger who died in a tragic snowmobile accident on the Ottawa River in 1998 He is survived by his siblings Kim (Jim) Silkie of Alice Trevor (Julie) Bramburger of Pembroke and brother-in-law of Drew (Mary Ann) MacDonald Algonquin College President and CEO Claude Brule made the announcement with profound sadness and called the news “heartbreaking.”  leaving all who knew Jamie filled with grief and sorrow,” Brule shared “His deep passion for Algonquin College and his beloved hometown of Pembroke was evident in everything he did and a tireless advocate for education and community former executive director of the Upper Ottawa Valley Chamber of Commerce Lorraine MacKenzie expressed what people throughout Renfrew County were feeling when she wrote “I am in shock Brule said in his message that he will share more about Jamie and his remarkable contributions in the coming days I encourage us all to lean on one another during this difficult time it is important that we support each other,” he wrote Classes have been cancelled at the Pembroke Campus for March 12 (resuming March 13) where counseling and supports will be available for learners and employees Flags will be lowered to half-mast in Jamie’s honour The City of Pembroke said in recognition of Jamie’s lifetime of contributions flags at all municipal buildings will be lowered to half-mast and city council will honour him with a moment of silence at the March 18 meeting “Jamie Bramburger was an extraordinary individual whose dedication to our community knew no bounds,” said Pembroke Mayor Ron Gervais and his passing leaves a void that will not soon be filled I extend my heartfelt condolences to Jamie’s family and all those who had the privilege of knowing him The County of Renfrew and Warden Peter Emon released a statement Tuesday evening saying they were shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Jamie Bramburger and a passionate advocate for both education and the Pembroke community and Renfrew County Jamie’s loss is deeply felt by everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him,” said Emon “His dedication to Algonquin College and his beloved hometown were evident in every aspect of his work He was not only a respected leader but also a source of unwavering support and inspiration for many of us His contributions to Renfrew County are numerous and will leave a lasting legacy.” Jamie was well-known throughout the Upper Ottawa Valley and has worked at the Pembroke Campus for over 25 years He accepted a position at the college following a career in broadcast-journalism and he has been the manager of Community and Student Affairs for many years he was actively involved in several key initiatives such as the construction of the Waterfront Campus expanding the campus bursary and scholarship program to aid students in financial need He had currently been serving as the campus’s interim dean a position he also filled for several months in 2019 “Jamie’s impact on our college and community will never be forgotten,” Brule said and former member of Algonquin College’s board of governors worked with and alongside Jamie on multiple projects for decades “In this moment of heartbreak and profound sorrow it’s difficult to summarize what seems like a lifetime working with Jamie on so many College and community projects,” Blackstein said “Much has already been written by others and much more will follow from the myriad of people who admired and respected this remarkable man His many contributions to economic development journalism and various charitable causes are well known and already written about my remarks will focus on our mutual passion for Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley Jamie devoted much of his life to the success of Algonquin College His legacy is thousands of successful students a world class waterfront campus and all those of us who are better for knowing him They say ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’ so I’ll follow that creed We worked together in crafting what has become a guiding principle for students staff and the greater Algonquin College community these six words now greet everyone entering the college Make Algonquin Proud.’ He exemplified these words and moreover: JAMIE BRAMBURGER IS ALGONQUIN COLLEGE,” Blackstein said which is comprised of Algonquin College Waterfront Campus Family and Children’s Services of Renfrew County Renfrew County Catholic District School Board and Renfrew County District School Board released a statement on March 12 mourning the loss of Jamie and leadership has touched countless lives throughout Renfrew County and beyond As a passionate advocate for learning and personal growth Jamie played an instrumental role in advancing the mission of Algonquin College and fostering a positive supportive environment for students and staff alike His contributions extended far beyond the campus leaving a lasting impact on the broader community of Pembroke Jamie’s loss is not only felt within the walls of Algonquin College where he was known as a compassionate and committed leader His vision and tireless work to build stronger more inclusive communities will be remembered as a testament to his character,” the group’s statement read Jamie was also well known as the play-by-play voice of the Pembroke Lumber Kings on YourTV a role he greatly enjoyed because of his love for Canada’s game and his hometown He co-founded the Jason Blaine Celebrity Charity Golf Classic which has now raised more than $1,000,000 to support local organizations and initiatives His commitment to community service was outstanding and over the years he had served on the Upper Ottawa Valley Physician Recruitment Committee the Upper Ottawa Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Pembroke Economic Development Advisory Committee As chair of the Pembroke Economic Development Advisory Committee he helped oversee projects including the Business Retention and Expansion Project and the Economic Development Marketing Plan In the early 2000s Jamie shared his love of sports in a frequent column that graced the Observer’s pages Jamie was a frequent contributor of write ups on happenings at the college Jamie also contributed write ups on the Ottawa Valley Baseball League and the area’s top fastball team Current New Jersey Devils Head Coach Sheldon Keefe GM and head coach of the Pembroke Lumber Kings shared the impact Jamie had on him during his years in Pembroke “Through his words and actions Jamie’s leadership inspired and connected people He taught me the value of community and charity and his passion for Lumber Kings hockey was unmatched I’m shocked and saddened by his loss but will remember him fondly for the positive impact he had on the lives of so many including myself,” Keefe said Canadian country music singer/songwriter from Pembroke Jason Blaine attended Algonquin College’s Pembroke Campus and worked alongside Jamie on his annual Jason Blaine Charity Concert and Golf Tournament when I wanted to start the Jason Blaine Celebrity Charity Golf Classic my first meeting and the one who helped me get the whole thing started and would continue to serve on our organizing committee for nearly a decade,” Blaine said “Together we raised a ton of money that would help fund the incredible new Pembroke Waterfront Campus as well as support some 50 other local causes and ultimately raise $1 million for our beloved hometown I’ve long admired Jamie Bramburger as a true salt of the earth journalist and author and Interim Dean of Algonquin College Pembroke with a huge heart for serving the needs of the community I’ve actually said on more than one occasion that this world needs more Jamie Bramburgers.” Marianne Minns worked with Jamie and Jason Blaine on the Jason Blaine Celebrity Charity Golf Classic Jamie was at first a co-worker and then his boss when Jamie was news director at CHRV Radio in Pembroke in the early 1990s “He was an extremely hardworking broadcaster who was a shining example to those around him You always felt he would never ask you to do something he wouldn’t do himself He set a standard that you always wanted to live up to traits that made him one of best bosses you could have,” Cooper said Both men shared a love of sports which was always a topic of conversation when they got together His efforts to improve our community were endless He was instrumental in helping to bring high school football back to Pembroke spearheading efforts to raise the required funds to make it happen I’ll forever cherish sitting next to him doing colour commentary for high school football He was at home doing play-by-play for any sport “I didn’t know Jamie until 2018 when he reached out to have me on the Algonquin College Speaker Series to talk about my Expos book Blue Monday He was a Renaissance man for sure,” Gallagher said Word of his passing spread quickly on social media particularly Facebook where there was an outpouring of affection for Jamie and profound sadness about his sudden death Jamie was the epitome of the Ottawa Valley … he loved his home … he put his heart and soul into everything that he did,” wrote Jayne Brophy “The Pembroke Lumber Kings are shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Jamie Bramburger The voice of your Kings on @yourtvov for many years and even authored a book about their storied history Our thoughts and prayers are with the Bramburger family and all those who had the privilege of knowing Jamie has been a big part of my life through my work and as a friend My thoughts are with his family,” posted Trevor Riley The Upper Ottawa Valley Chamber of Commerce wrote “Jamie has made an indelible mark on the character of our community The Pembroke Observer and News expresses its sympathy to the Bramburger family and Jamie’s innumerable friends and  colleagues The Pembroke Regional Hospital Foundation has announced the return of its annual Heroes Run for Healthcare Presented by Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) the event aims to rally the community in support of local healthcare services We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentThe Heroes Run features two main events: a 2-kilometre hero-themed fun run for children According to planning committee chairman Scott Coombes the run is a celebration of community spirit and a collective effort to strengthen healthcare in the region “[This event] brings our community together for a common goal each spring – to support local healthcare,” Coombes said Funds raised during the run will go toward the purchase of priority medical equipment for Pembroke Regional Hospital (PRH) emphasized the importance of these contributions “This year’s event will support the highest priority equipment needs at Pembroke Regional Hospital and keep state-of-the-art health care The 2-kilometre kids run offers an engaging experience for young participants and a superhero cape awarded at the finish line all while making a difference for local healthcare,” said organizer Tammy Blackmore the Foundation’s community fundraising specialist local firefighter or a front-line health care professional We want to celebrate all the heroes who make our community such a great place to live,” she said The cost is $10 per child (aged 12 and under) for the 2K fun run with guardians welcome to accompany them at no extra charge The 5K timed run has a registration fee of $35 per person A discounted group rate of $150 is available for schools For group registrations or more information Leigh Costello can be reached at leigh.costello@prh.ca or by calling (613) 732-2811 ext Participants are encouraged to raise pledges in support of the hospital A prize valued at $500 will be awarded to the top fundraiser and those who raise over $100 will be entered into a draw to win a one-year family pool pass from the Best Western Pembroke Inn & Conference Centre The City of Pembroke is warning residents that high winds are expected on Tuesday as storms roll through the area We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentEnvironment Canada provided the City of Pembroke with a weather update on Monday April 28 noting that on Tuesday a thunderstorm will start in the morning between 8 and 10 a.m followed by a storm in the afternoon from roughly 3-8 p.m Residents can expect wind gusts of 90-110 km/h with a chance of damaging winds in the area the City of Pembroke said to keep these tips in mind when experiencing high winds:  president of the Upper Ottawa Valley Chamber of Commerce has announced her decision to run again as the Liberal Party of Canada candidate for the riding of Algonquin-Renfrew-Pembroke in the upcoming 45th Canadian general election We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentThe announcement follows new Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Sunday March 23 visit to the Governor General to request Parliament be dissolved and an election called Mills previously ran in then riding Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke as the Liberal candidate in the 2021 federal election and is seeking to secure a seat for the party once again an entrepreneur and publisher of Canadian Military Family Magazine has been an advocate for small and medium-sized businesses in the Upper Ottawa Valley “I am thrilled to be the Team Carney candidate,” Mills said in a press release “This election is about who can stand up to Donald Trump and build an economy that works for everyone Mark has the experience and leadership to deliver for Canadians These are serious times that require serious leaders.” former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England assumed leadership of the Liberal Party two weeks ago Carney had been an advisor to Justin Trudeau and the Liberals on the economy Carney has introduced several new policy measures that seem to take the party in a different direction These include repealing the consumer carbon tax eliminating the GST on homes under $1 million for first-time home buyers and adjusting Employment Insurance policies to expedite support for workers which he claims will save families up to $825 annually Critics of Carney including Pierre Poilievre have said Carney is copying Conservative policies Mills pointed to economic challenges in the newly renamed Algonquin-Renfrew-Pembroke riding and emphasized the need for strong leadership “In our newly named electoral district of Algonquin-Renfrew-Pembroke people have a clear opportunity to vote for a voice in Ottawa that will champion our local economic and social interests She argued that the region has not fully leveraged its economic potential and expressed a commitment to advocating for its growth “For too long our area has lagged behind the country economically missing the chance to capitalize on our geographic advantage,” she said She has noted strong support for the Liberal Party under Carney’s leadership “I’m hearing from so many people who are excited to vote Liberal under the leadership of Mark Carney They know that the Liberal Party is the local choice for change I’m really excited to get to all parts of our riding to listen and connect with residents on what matters to them,” she said in the release Mills and her campaign team have invited supporters to visit their website to participate in the election effort by volunteering The deadline for parties to nominate candidates or for Independent candidates to put their names forward is April 7 Voters will be able to look up the complete list of candidates by Wednesday The Pembroke Regional Hospital (PRH) Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Dr Declan Rowan as the hospital’s new chief of staff who is stepping down after nine years of service in the role “It’s a privilege to take on the role of chief of staff at Pembroke Regional Hospital,” Rowan said. “I’m inspired by the commitment of our medical staff and care teams, and I look forward to supporting a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence as we work together to meet the evolving needs of our community.” Having lived in the Upper Ottawa Valley since 2006, Rowan is deeply rooted in the community. He is the father of five. According to a press release from the hospital, Rowan is known for his commitment to collaborative leadership, system-level improvement, and advancing access to high-quality, patient-centered care. Dean Sauriol, chairman of the PRH Board of Directors, welcomed the appointment, noting Rowan’s strong alignment with the hospital’s mission and values. “His extensive experience and vision for the hospital align perfectly with our mission and our goals. We are confident that under his leadership, PRH will continue to thrive and provide exceptional care to our community,” Sauriol said. PRH President and CEO Sabine Mersmann also expressed support for the appointment. “Dr. Rowan is a great leader and will be an integral part of our leadership dyad. His dedication to patient-centred care and collaborative approach will undoubtedly drive our mission forward. We are excited to see the positive changes he will bring to our hospital,” she said. Mersmann also extended a heartfelt thank you to Hurley for his leadership and contributions over the past nine years, The hospital’s president and CEO said Hurley’s commitment to excellence and dedication at the Pembroke Regional Hospital has set a strong foundation for the future. Reflecting on his tenure, Hurley said serving as chief of staff for nearly decade has been an honour. “I am proud of the progress we have made together and, as I step aside, I do so with sincere gratitude and confidence in the future. Dr. Rowan is a caring and competent physician and a natural leader. His past achievements have already earned him the respect of the professional staff, and I look forward to seeing his impact,” Hurley said. Petawawa leaders looking to future growthPembroke Laurentian Valley and Petawawa are growing at different rates which begs the question: How is that sustainable Pembroke’s golden days of the timber trade may be well over a century in its past but the communities in our region continue to demonstrate the resiliency and adaptability needed to not just survive We apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Play VideoArticle contentOur region is diverse bordered on the east by the mighty Ottawa River with the City of Pembroke a community dating back several decades before Confederation serving as a primary service and shopping hub for much of the area and forested region boasting many outdoor recreational opportunities Its rural nature is contrasted with some of the area’s biggest box stores situated right on the border with Pembroke And then there is the Town of Petawawa with its many young families It can boast the largest population growth among the three municipalities and also one of the biggest employers in the region in Garrison Petawawa – but that also means those young military families are constantly rotating in and out of the community According to the 2021 census data released by Statistics Canada Pembroke enjoyed population growth of 2.3 per cent between 2016 and 2021 and its population was listed as 16,571 Pembroke CAO David Unrau believes the attraction and retention of young professionals provides a good base on which the community can build going forward He said the City of Pembroke had six delegations at the recently held Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) conference one of which keyed on bringing and keeping young professionals like doctors we just have to spend a little bit more time on that,” Unrau said If you have those [young professionals] then you know that probably there’s a strong economy in the area and lots of things filter out of that [like] having a strong workforce So that’s something we’re going to explore more and develop a strategy going forward and see if we can partner say with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and other organizations “It’s about creating a community and a culture that people are attracted to because the thing is it’s about what makes them like the Pembroke area,” he said One of the city’s bigger challenges is the replacing and upgrading of aging pieces of infrastructure Council has heard on several occasions from Operations Director Brian Lewis that certain pipes under Pembroke’s streets are the original ones that went into the ground in the early 1900s is the need to replace the city’s water tower but I really think that there’s got to be a different (finance) model out there and I don’t know what that means but we’re not unique in the situation where you’re looking for infrastructure dollars,” Unrau said That’s certainly what we’re going to dig into this year – the service level then it’s going to cost you X amount of dollars And that means those dollars won’t go to recreation it’s trying to put it back to the people regarding that balance that’s needed there.” “I really think regarding what’s in our favour is how we’ve partnered more than we ever have and I think that is needed – partnering with local organizations that are around us like the hospital we’re doing a second retreat on truth and reconciliation For any one organization to put on something that big would be very expensive we share the cost and we share that learning,” he said adding that those partnerships can be across municipalities too and the pool was saved thanks to the partnership of a newly formed fundraising group and another municipal partner in Laurentian Valley all coming together to pay the $1.4-million bill to have a new Butler building constructed over the pool basin Partnerships going forward is a great positive for sure,” Unrau said expects to see continued growth in Laurentian Valley “We’re seeing a lot of inquiries into growth and people seem to be picking Laurentian Valley as a place to live ‘Grow with us’ so we’re asking young families to come here and grow with us Sauriol noted that he sees new commercial businesses opening in the municipality and new homes being built “We’re pretty pleased with that and the tax base is healthy now and if growth continues then it’s sustainable I think council has done a great job of holding the tax base at a certain level and providing all the services that people feel are needed to make this a great place,” he said many major retailers have built and opened new stores in Laurentian Valley including Walmart Sauriol pointed to the current construction on Pembroke Street E of a major Petro Canada station that includes an A&W and a pizzeria as the latest example of commercial growth in the township we have room and we anticipate getting more growth over the coming years and hopefully the new rehabilitation of [Highway]148 that they’re doing from the city boundary to the Quebec turnoff is going to allow good traffic flow and be able to draw people to hopefully develop some more commercial,” he said Between 2016 and 2021 the town saw population growth of 5.7 per cent numerous new subdivisions have been developed as well as new commercial complexes like the Petawawa Market Mall and most recently Food Basics Valour K-12 School was built and opened in 2014 as was a new St Francis of Assisi Catholic School that opened in 2012 growth is easy to spot in Petawawa and the landscape has been altered significantly by residential and commercial growth since the year 2000 The Pembroke Observer and News contacted Petawawa CAO Scott Randolph on February 26 but he didn’t have time for an interview before this story’s deadline Randolph did say the town is holding a development summit next week with its developers and that it is preparing a master servicing plan that is due early in the spring both of which will contribute to guiding the town’s growth into the future adxion@postmedia.com  A Pembroke youth faces multiple charges after allegedly sharing intimate images of a former partner without consent following an intimate partner violence investigation by the Upper Ottawa Valley detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police The identity of the 15-year-old is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act A Pembroke youth is facing several charges after allegedly sharing intimate images of a former romantic partner without consent The charges stem from an intimate partner violence investigation started last month by the Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) the alleged victim “had been threatened and recorded without their knowledge during intimate situations.” These charges have not been proven in court “I can tell you the victim was similar in age to the accused — early teens.” When asked if the images were shared online and with more than one person “This information will come out during the court process,” he said The 15-year-old was released from custody and will appear before Pembroke’s Ontario Court of Justice at a future date If you or someone you know is living in or involved in an abusive relationship, help is available. Contact Bernadette McCann House 24-7 for support, advice or the safety of a shelter at 1-800-267-4930 The Women’s Sexual Assault Centre of Renfrew County is also available 24-7 for information and support at 1-800-663-3060 You can also attend the emergency department of any hospital in Renfrew County and ask to speak to a member of the Assault Response Team Victim Services of Renfrew County is also available to provide emotional and practical assistance to people who have experienced domestic violence. They can be reached at 613-649-2852 or 1-877-568-5730 go to your nearest police station or call 911 Please select what you would like included for printing: Copy the text below and then paste that into your favorite email application Jamie Stuart - It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts that the Bramburger family announces Jamie’s sudden passing on Tuesday Loving father of Jason (Anna) Bramburger of Montreal and Shauna (Jordan) Kathnelson of Petawawa Cherished son of Audrey Bramburger (née Lewis) of Alice and the late Franklin “Frank” Bramburger (2020) Predeceased by his brother Arlin Bramburger (1998) Survived by his siblings Kim (Jim) Silkie of Alice Cory (Ashton) Bramburger and Paula Bramburger; great-uncle to Michael & Hayden Bramburger and Madison & Kameron Traversey Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors Renfrew County has welcomed four new family physicians as part of a province-wide initiative aimed at addressing the shortage of primary care providers The physicians arrived in the community in the fall of 2024 through the Practice Ready Ontario (PRO) program which accelerates the integration of internationally trained doctors into the province’s healthcare system “This year, up to 100 internationally trained physicians with training in family medicine who have completed their field assessment will begin practicing as a family doctor in rural and northern communities. We hope to be able to welcome some of these physicians by the summer,” Johnson said. “We are committed to ensuring every resident in our community has access to the care they need, close to home. These successes are just the beginning.” Launched in 2023, the PRO program removes the need for internationally trained physicians to complete certain re-education programs, provided they meet standards established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). The initiative is designed to streamline the licensing process while maintaining high standards of care. According to Johnson, the first intake of the program has been especially successful for Renfrew County, which secured four of the 28 participating physicians across Ontario. The newly arrived doctors include Dr. Ali Ziaee and Dr. Helia Ghanean, both joining the West Champlain Family Health Team; Dr. Salwa Alshahabi, who is now with the Pembroke Family Medicine Teaching Unit; and Dr. Hadi Nemazi, who has joined the Petawawa Centennial Family Health Centre. All four have begun accepting patients, with a focus on individuals previously registered with Health Care Connect, Ontario’s service for linking residents with family physicians. Those still without a family doctor are encouraged to register by calling 1-800-445-1822 or visiting www.ontario.ca/healthcareconnect. Pembroke Regional Hospital President and CEO Sabine Mersmann expressed gratitude on behalf of the hospital’s healthcare team to the physician groups, particularly the Pembroke Family Medicine Teaching Unit, for their role in welcoming and supporting the new doctors. “Not only are these new physicians helping to ensure that more local residents have a primary care physician, but they are also assisting with many hospitals and long-term care home services,” Mersmann said.