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THE Your CORNWALL EVENTS & COMMUNITY Newspaper

SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 January 31, 2014

This Week in THE SEEKER CORNWALL WINTERFEST is back again!

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There’s no time Like “ Snow Shoe Time!”

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FUN AT Bishop MacDonell Catholic School

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The Paradox of Technology

I love technology. I love how it can make life easier. I am always in awe when I see technological advancements being made.

Recently, I purchased an interesting piece of equipment called "chromecast". For $35, this little "dongle" that you attach to your television allows you to stream movies and programs that you can find on YouTube, Netflix or anywhere else online wirelessly from your computer, tablet or even mobile phone. It opened a whole new world of possibilities to me and I'm even getting rid of my cable next month, as I pretty much can find online anything and everything I care to watch. This will save me a hefty $150 a month. See why I love technology?

I also purchased a new phone system; my old one died. I replaced it with a cordless Panasonic answering system with 5 handsets that links to my cell phone and Bluetooth headset, has an intercom so I can call my kids across the house, and even tells me who is calling with voice caller ID. THAT simplifies my life.

I went to the clinic this week. I have a sinus infection and needed to see a doctor for antibiotics, so I went to the walk-in on Pitt Street.

Entering the premises, much to my surprise, I saw two touch screen kiosks. I looked for a sign that would direct me to them for registration, but nothing.

I went to the receptionist and asked to see a doctor. She pointed me to the machine and said "register there". I went to the screen, started by selecting English or French, then went through a bunch of questions about my condition, confirmed my address and bang!

"You are now registered", it said. "There are 6 people ahead of you."

The doctor was just as high-tech, entering the office with his tablet, inputing my symptoms in it, then writing on it the prescription, which was in turn sent to the printer and given to me as I left the clinic.

This got me thinking.

Technology is pretty cool, but how long will it be before it replaces all human contact? How long before that doctor no longer serves me in person, being replaced by a kiosk who will assess and diagnose me? We are already seeing, in the younger generation, problems arising with social interaction as they are widely communicating via devices, but not so much in the flesh. How long before we completely lose touch with one another?

It will be interesting to see.

Julia Lucio, Editor in chief

OUR WEEKLY CARTOON FEATURE Titled

Sympathy Cramps

by Frank Burelle Part 49 - Enjoy!

The Seeker, Cornwall Edition Volume 5, Issue 4, January 31, 2014 Founded by Julia Lucio and Mai-Liis Renaud 2010 Published by Local Seeker Media Group, Cornwall, Ontario

The Seeker does not accept responsibility for errors, misprints or inaccuracies published within. The opinions and statements of our columnists are not to be presumed as the statements and opinions of The Seeker.

The Seeker is Proudly printed on a paper manufactured in Canada by Paper Mason

Editor: Julia Lucio Creative Design: Mai-Liis Renaud Reporters & Photographers: Jason Setnyk, Julia Lucio and Mai-Liis Renaud Circulation: Siiri and Olaf Reiman

OUR CONTACT INFORMATION: CLASSIFIED ADS: 613-613-935-3763 ext 2 BUSINESS ADS: 613-935-3763 Ext. 101(Julia) / 613-935-3763 Ext. 102 (Mai-Liis) Email: info@theseeker.ca

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OFFICE: 327 2ND STREET E., CORNWALL, ONTARIO OFFICE HOURS: Mon. to Wed. 9am - 5pm - Closed noon-1pm otherwise by appointment only

THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 2 BUSINESS ADS: 613-613-935-3763 ext 1 www.theseeker.ca

SEEKER SNIPPETS / YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

Presented by Jason Setnyk News & Politics 2014 Bowl for Kids Sake - The 2014 Tim Hortons Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl for Kids Sake is Saturday February 8th in Cornwall at Olympia Bowl from 1pm to 7pm and Nativity Lanes from 12:30pm to 6:30pm.

The Counties Challenge takes place the following day on Sunday February 9th 2014 from 1pm to 5pm at the Chesterville lanes in Chesterville Ontario. Put a team together and join over 1000 other bowlers from the community to help raise funds in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cornwall and District’s 7 free mentoring programs! So grab your friends, family or co-workers, put together a team and START SOMETHING BIG today! If you haven’t picked up your team registration kit yet, drop by the office at 101 Third St. W. or call 613-9338035. Online registration is available at www.bfks.kintera.org/cornwall.

Cornwall and the Counties Tourism Unveil 2014 Travel Guide After a widely successful transition to a full-sized, more informative format, Cornwall and the Counties Tourism (CCT) have once again created a dynamic publication that presents the region as a viable tourist destination.

With beautiful photography, exceptional design layout, and engaging editorial, the 2014 Travel Guide is sure to excite any reader and encourage more visitors to our lovely region.

“We’re extremely proud of the 2014 edition of the Cornwall and the Counties Tourism Travel Guide,” says Mrs. Linda Wilson. “We’ve received outstanding feedback on the larger, more engaging version of the magazine and feel that we hit a home-run with the fun and exciting vision we’ve incorporated in 2014.”

Arts & Culture Citizen's Movement for Art Centre Breakfast - Coeur en art/Heart for art is the beginning of the citizens movement to make a multi-arts facility, with a gallery, theater and studio space a reality. “We have the arts, now let’s build

them a home!” Come be part of it from the beginning. Breakfast, project launch and silent auction are at the Navy Vets’ on 6th Street, at 8:00 a.m., on Friday February 14th. Tickets are $15.00 and are available at TAG, OBO Studios, Centre culturel, Corrid’art, Benson Centre and Civic Complex Box Office.

Seaway Valley Theatre Company presents Les Miserables - The Seaway Valley Theatre Company will be presenting “Les Misérables”.

Victor Hugo’s passionate and epic tale of social injustice, class conflict, love and revolt in 19th century France is brought to life in this intense adaptation.

Follow the beloved characters through a story spanning several years. Musical favourites include: Castle on a Cloud, Do You Hear the People Sing, On My Own, and many more!

There are a series of showings at Aultsville Theatre.

Evening Shows take place February 7, 8, 13, 14, and 15, 2014 at 7:30pm and there is one matinee show on February 9, 2014 at 1:30pm. Tickets are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors and students, and $18 for children 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased at: Admission.com or Cornwall Civic Complex Box Office.

Sports & Lifestyle Cornwall River Kings fall to Cool FM - Jeremy Duchesne made 37 stops as Saint-Georges halted the River Kings three-game winning streak with a 32 victory on Saturday night at the Civic Complex.

Charles Bergeron scored two secondperiod goals to pace the Cool FM in front of 2,152 fans. The game featured the debut of River Kings forwards Jean-Francois Laplante and JeanRené Forget, who were acquired at the trade deadline from Thetford-Mines and Laval, respectively. Saturday’s game also marked the debut of no-touch icing, a new rule implemented by the LNAH this past week. Cornwall outshot Saint-Georges 39-21. The announced stars were Duchesne (first), Pokulok (second) and Bergeron.

Sharks Reach Finals at Fleming Invitational for Women’s Hockey - For the second straight time this season, the St. Lawrence College (SLC) Cornwall women’s hockey team qualified for the Championship game, this time at the Fleming College Invitational. In a ‘win and we’re in’ semifinal, the Sharks once again faced the Fleming

Knights. Young would score her third goal of the tournament, in the 16th round of the shootout, sending the Sharks to the Championship game. The Sharks would once again face a very familiar opponent, the Georgian College Grizzlies, but this time there was an Invitational Championship on the line. The teams entered a sudden death over time.

With the Sharks on the powerplay, they would pepper the Knights with several chances, but a deflected point shot by SLC ended up on the stick of a streaking Knights forward who made no mistake on the breakaway with a perfectly placed shot, handing the Sharks a silver medal in the process.

Cornwall Sports Centre Opens Training Facility - An exciting new element to Cornwall’s already strong sports and athletic scene officially opens on Friday January 31st. The Cornwall Sports Centre is a 10,000 square-foot facility located at 412 Fifth Street East. The facility is equipped with a 3000 square-foot synthetic ice surface, state of the art training equipment, an artificial turf track, dressing rooms, video/meeting room, physio office and a lounge area with a flat screen TV. “Our core vision is to provide all of the training tools an athlete may need in one facility,” said professional hockey player and Co-owner Brock McBride. “We want to bring elite level training that has been available in bigger centers for many years to the Cornwall area. We hope to help all levels of athletes from the beginner to the pro get all the training tools and support they need to accomplish their goals.” The Cornwall Sports Centre will offer elite conditioning programs for athletes.

My name is Jason Setnyk, and these are the Seeker Snippets.

Jason Setnyk is a local high school teacher, journalist, published and award winning author, photographer, arts and culture event coordinator, and a community volunteer sitting on numerous boards and committees. http: //jason-setnyk.blogspot.ca

THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 3 CLASSIFIED ADS: 613-935-3763 ext 2 www.theseeker.ca

Brock Frost - Summary of Campaign Platform Continued from cover

The background surrounding my campaign platform focuses on several major issues including economic growth, lower taxes, government transparency, protection of citizen's interests, arts and culture and health.

Furthermore, I refused to make any promises that were theoretically based, unrealistic, unreachable or out of the hands of municipal power. My policy ideas are very real, substantially researched, attainable and vastly beneficial to each and every citizen of Cornwall.

Additionally, I will not use nor will I support attack ads or slander in my campaign. While I may disagree with certain individual policies, I believe everyone has the right to express their own views free of personal persecution and negativity.

Lastly, the following policy initiatives are by no means unresponsive to change. They were designed as a result of feedback and comments I have received from citizens and as such, they may change as the needs of the community change.

Plan # 1

My Salary as Councillor will be donated to the Children's Aid Society (CAS) and Cornwall Hospice The Children's Aid Society and Cornwall Hospice are two of the most i m p o r t a n t c h a r i t a b l e organizations that share our community. The numerous heartfelt stories that I have heard personally has triggered my vast desire to help out in any way I can.

For that reason, I will be proud and honoured to donate my entire salary as Councillor to CAS and Cornwall Hospice equally. Children deserve the best opportunities our community has to offer and everyone, old or young, deserves respect and dignity at their end of life.

Representing my constituents at City Hall would be a privilege and my motivation for Council is not for personal benefit. As such, I believe my salary would be much better utilized by these two i n c r e d i b l e organizations. After all, aren't elected officials supposed to support their community by any means possible?

Lastly, I understand that there will be some people who try to spin this in a negative light. That is just the nature of politics I suppose and truly unfortunate. The truth remains though that if I am elected, I AM going to donate my salary and these organizations will benefit from such. I would ask that anyone who disagrees with this initiative to simply follow in my footsteps and open their wallets as well. CAS and Cornwall Hospice need donations to operate and they most certainly would appreciate the gesture.

our interests as a community.2 Not only will this initiative protect us in terms of how we allow our land to be used, but we will then be in a position to develop for public use and/or resell for private development. More efficient use and control of these lands will surely increase City coffers and help lower the overall tax liability of Cornwall

Plan # 2

Cornwall's Waterfront - Time to Take Back Our Community

The issue surrounding the addition of storage tanks on our waterfront deeply concerns me for several reasons. First, the public should have been consulted on something as tremendously important as this.

Whether Council knew or not in advance is irrelevant - the bottom line is that we as the public were kept in the dark. Second, the addition of storage tanks is in complete violation of our own Waterfront Plan that was adopted in 1989 by City Council. In fact, the Plan even recognized and praised the prior removal of similar tanks.1 Third,

and this is the biggest problem Cornwall has faced in sometime, is the complete lack of respect that the Federal Government (Transport Canada) has shown towards the City of Cornwall.

I believe our own MP Guy Lauzon was even excluded from these closed-door negotiations.

Unfortunately, the rules are not fair as they apply to lands inside a municipality that are owned by provincial and federal governments. Essentially, they are free to do as they please - exactly what they have done on our harbour front. No consultation, no public inquiries and absolutely no respect. This issue is bound to set a precedent and what will we do when this happens again?

Land inside our City should be owned, or at least controlled, by us. For that reason, my second promise as Councillor will be for Cornwall to acquire (or push for privatization) several key parcels of federally/provincially owned land. We are sitting on excess of 30 million dollars in reserves as a City and these funds should be invested to strengthen

citizens.

Plan # 3

Freeze on Property and Water Tax Rates

The majority of Cornwall citizens are surely aware that the property tax rates in our City are some of the highest in the province. But why?

In 2011, the Community Action Group (CAG) lobbied Cornwall City Council (for the third year in a row) to implement a 0% property tax increase, following in the footsteps of the City of London.

According to Statistics Canada, Cornwall had the lowest average household income in Ontario at $53,068 in 2010 however our property tax rates did not reflect this.3 As a result, my third promise as

Councillor will be to freeze property and water taxes at the current rates. There are numerous other ways in which City Council can generate more revenue without having the average taxpayers pay the bill.

With that being said, there are certain parcels of land in Cornwall that are also conveniently not paying their share of the tax bill. It is absolutely unfathomable that while the average Cornwall citizen pays the highest tax rates in the province, these powerful entities are receiving a tax break!

As such, in addition to my freeze on tax rates, I will also ensure that every property owner starts paying their fair share of taxes.

Please ote: In order to avoid any conflict of interest, I will gladly exempt any properties I own personally from this tax policy initiative.

Plan # 4

Public Referendum on Fluoridation of Our Water System A large group of community health activists has been advocating for the removal of fluoride in our drinking water. This position is also mirrored by renowned medical experts Dr. Kennedy and Dr.Mercola. (http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2 013/02/16/fluoridegate-water-fluoridation.aspx) In understanding that this is a controversial subject,

THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31- pg. 4 BUSINESS ADS: 613-935-3763 ext 1

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one in which both sides of the debate stand firm in their beliefs while others claim it's a violation of human rights (forced medication), my fourth promise as Councillor will be to hold a public referendum on fluoridation of our drinking water.

I am not an expert on fluoride and I believe the public as a whole should have the legal and moral right to make this decision, NOT City Council.

Major Canadian cities such as Vancouver, Victoria, Regina, Montreal and Halifax have already removed fluoride from their water supply. In Ontario, Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge have also followed suit. Are these cities all misinformed or did they perhaps see a benefit in removing fluoride? The table below depicts each province and their corresponding percentage of population that have fluoride in their drinking water.4 Interestingly, Ontario is one of the highest.

British Columbia New Brunswick Alberta Nova Scotia Saskatchewan P.E.I. Manitoba Newfoundland/Labrador Ontario Yukon Quebec N.W.T. Nunavut

3.9% 19.1% 74.6% 44.8% 31.7% 23.4% 70.3% 3.5% 70.3% 0% 6.9% 53.8% 7.1%

According to the Finance Department, the addition of fluoride also costs the City of Cornwall approximately $50,000 per year. So the question that remains is, "If we can have cleaner, safer water for our families while saving our City tax dollars, wouldn't that be a win-win for everyone?"

Plan # 5

Appointment of Integrity Commissioner

Section 223.3 of the Municipal Act, 2001 provides that municipalities may pass a by-law to establish the office of Integrity Commissioner. With the recent scandals that have dramatically plagued the Canadian political system, I feel it is only proper City management to exercise this legal authority.

With that being said, my fifth promise as Councillor will be to create the office of Integrity Commissioner.

Council must be more transparent as a whole and Councillors must be accountable for their actions.

The Integrity Commissioner will serve as an independent, unbiased office whose mandate would be to field complaints and inquiries from the public regarding actions performed by City Council and staff. All municipalities and all levels of government should be subject to integrity checks and I want to lead Cornwall in this direction by setting an example.

Plan # 6

Creation of a Cornwall City Council Code of Conduct

Following along the lines of transparency and Council accountability, my sixth promise as Councillor will be to create a Cornwall City Council Code of Conduct (CCCCC). Section 223.2 of the Municipal Act, 2001 also gives individual municipalities the authority (and choice) to create

such a code.

All Councillors should follow a code that is beyond the minimum set out in the Municipal Act and Conflict of Interest Act. We must have stricter guidelines for performance, accountability and public transparency in addition to penalties and consequences for breach of conduct.

Plan # 7

Creation of an Arts and Culture Department

Cornwall has many creative and talented people, and it's time to showcase their skills and help put Cornwall on the "cultural map". Having said that, my seventh promise as Councillor will be to create an Arts and Culture Department. The department would not only serve to promote local musicians and artists alike, but also help to attract outside interest (improving local economy) by hosting a variety of cultural events, shows and exhibits.

Bruce Davis, Cultural Development Advisor for S, D & G and the City of Cornwall claimed, "Creating an Arts and Culture Department within Cornwall is a tremendous step in the right direction. Many other municipalities already have independent arts and culture departments and allocate for such in their respective budgets."

to attract customers (citizens). According to the Canadian Census, Cornwall has seen virtually no growth in population in the past decade. In 2001 our population was 45,640 increasing to 45,965 in 2006 and 46,340 in 2011. Put simply, we need to start attracting more people to our city.

My eighth promise as Councillor will be to rebrand the entire image of Cornwall. Under the current budget and through Economic Development, I will lead this initiative and begin marketing Cornwall in a different light. For example, we need to publish information packages on retiring in Cornwall compared to other competing municipalities - Cornwall has a low cost of living, relatively low crime, all the necessary amenities

Interestingly, a key part of the City's own Culturescape and Strategic Plan is to have representation and support inside the borders of Cornwall.

However, the entire cultural development initiative is currently funded by the United Counties, the Province, the CFDC via EODP and the Eastern Ontario Training Board.

The Department would begin as a subdepartment of Economic Development (thus not requiring any substantial funding) and work in collaboration with the other municipalities and Your Arts Council Cornwall & The Counties.

Plan # 8

Rebranding of City of Cornwall Image

and impressive location. Similarly, we need to begin aggressively promoting Cornwall outside of the city borders. Social media, print ads, an improved website and radio are just a few avenues in which we can finally begin to rebrand our great City.

It is no secret that outside our city borders, Cornwall does not have the best reputation. I hear often that Cornwall is the "city that smells" and that it's a "smuggling town". In fact, in 2012 Money Sense magazine ranked Cornwall the 167th most desirable city to live in Canada out of a list of 190 contenders.5

For someone who takes extreme pride in our City, I find this particularly insulting. The truth of the matter is however that these two depictions of Cornwall have merit - or at least they used to. Domtar has been closed since 2006 and our problem with narcotics has substantially declined as well. The rest of the world however does not seem to know this!

It is important to think of any municipality as a business. In fact, Cornwall is a corporation after all and as with any corporation, we are in constant competition with other companies (municipalities)

List of References

1.http://www.cornwall.ca/en/planningandpermits/resources/WaterfrontPl an2007.pdf

2.http://www.cornwall.ca/en/finance/resources/2014CityCornwallReserv esProgressFund.pdf 3.http://www.standard-freeholder.com/2013/10/08/cag-urges-cornwallcouncil-to-hold-the-line-on-taxes 4.http://www.cda-adc.ca/en/services/fact_sheets/water_floridation.asp 5.http://list.moneysense.ca/rankings/best-places-tolive/2012/Default.aspx?sp2=1&sc1=0&d1=a

THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 5 BUSINESS ADS: 613-935-3763 ext 1

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with Shannon Ferguson

The Love Hawk

Your CORNWALL EVENTS & COMMUNITY Newspaper

Vol.

Your Life is Not a Fairy Tale It’s a delusional world that we live in these days. We our success on that of others and we 5base Issue 2 January 17, 2014 are unhappy with our lives if they don’t resemble the scripted Disney movies we grew up with. Maybe it’s the excessive commercialization of weddings or the happy facades we see portrayed on our Social Media feeds day in and day out, but for some reason everyone’s looking for a fairy tale instead of accepting that their lives are good enough just as they are.

This Week in THE SEEKER CONGRATULATIONS to the Seekers Choice Award Winners

How boring would our lives be if they were scripted? If everything was already planned out and the climaxes were only useful to gauge the nearing end, would we not wish for more uncertainty? The fact that your life is not a magical fairy tale is no reason to think you got the short end of the stick; it should actually be a reason for celebration.

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You have a fantastic life laid out before you and you are the writer, the director, the actor, and the critic. The constant ebb and flow of ups and downs gives your story depth and the twists and turns you can’t predict leave you breathlessly wanting more. Your heartbreaks heal you and your triumphs nurture your soul. Your past feeds your future and leaves you craving more.

6 ENJOY LIFT-OFF THIS WEEKEND. Check the schedule.

The people you meet along the way, your supporting cast, are real. They exist and they live in a world not confined to a script. The bloopers you make together create uncontrived comedy and there are consequences when you put your foot in your mouth; no retakes, no outtakes, just taking the lessons learned and bringing them with you into the next act of your life.

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8 GET YOUR MOTORCYCLES READY for the Big Ride

Prince charming doesn’t exist and if you truly did run into a knight in shining armor riding a white horse wouldn’t you kind of wonder why some random man is dressed in fighting gear and riding a stead? Wouldn’t you wonder where his car is? Your real love may come by foot or he may be lost on the freeway in his Mazda 3, stuck in traffic, with a broken GPS. You may meet him in a most unexciting way, but you have the ability to live your story the way you want, so do it. Make the little things count and find the excitement in every situation.

Your leading man will be your co-star and he may never save you from a burning building but if he loves you and shows it, then that is enough.

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Invites you to the

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Check the or Snow White Stop wishing for more when you already have it all. You are living your story at this very moment and maybe you’re not Cinderella (she had a pretty shittyout life anyway) (forced to flee her home and live with seven strange men–pretty sure that’s not your dream) but you are YOU and your story should be good enough. You’re in for twists and turns, SEEKERS KEEPERS and bumps and bruises, but you are creating something more magical than a fairy tale could ever be, something unique and original and all yours.

SECTION So, no your life is not a Fairy Tale, it is so much more. Make your story a good one, make it count, and do it for you. Stop trying to live for your CENTRE audience or through their stories. Stop trying to impress the masses and start impressing yourself. Never take the characters that surround you for granted, they will add irreplaceable dimension don’t let mistakes for all next and weeks discourage you, instead let them build your own character. Your slate may not be completely blank but use what you have and live your life the best way you know how. Your story community events is in the making, don’t let it bomb at the box office.

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Cornwall Winterfest 2014 is February 15th - 17th

Storm Realty Cornwall Winterfest Carnaval 2014 is February 15th to 17th 2014 at Lamoureux Park .

It is a free admission festival for everyone young and old.

From fireworks, to entertainment, skating, and more - there will be a lot of activities for the whole family to enjoy.

More than 32,000 celebrated "Family" and "Winter" at the "FREE ADMISSION" Signature Festival in 2013. Winterfest has enjoyed continual growth over a seven year period.

Keep an eye on the website:www.cornwallwinterfest.com to check out what’s going on this year.

Wherever I may roam by April Lea Chaffee

NEWS THIS WEEK from www.theseeker.ca

Elvis Lives! And is coming to Cornwall!

On Saturday, February 22nd at 7:30 pm, Award Winning Elvis Tribute Artist T.J. Jackson and the Elvis Tribute Band will present "To Memphis and Back in a Flash" at St. Joseph's Catholic Secondary School Auditorium, 1500 Cumberland Street in support of the Fundraiser for CCSS Mission Trip to Dominican Republic 2014. The Mission Team will be holding this fundraiser to help raise funds for the Cornwall Catholic Schools Mission team who will be traveling in March to work in an Orphanage in the Dominican Republic.

Tickets will be available for $20 from Mission trip participants from the following local catholic schools; St. Joe's, St. Matt's and Holy Trinity C.S.S. Tickets can also be purchased from Scotia Bank, Cornwall. Come check it out and have a great time doing it!

April Lea Chaffee-Wall , First Year Journalism Student at St. Lawrence College, Cornwall Campus

Letters & Opinions MPP Jim McDonell says Fuel tax hike a disaster for border towns - “This government doesn’t have a revenue

problem.This government has a spending problem. The last thing residents in eastern Ontario need is to pay an extra 10 cents per litre for gas, which will also drive up the cost of essentials such as groceries, heat for our homes and the cost of doing business in Ontario ” concluded MPP Jim McDonell. “Ontarians deserve better. It’s time to change the team that leads this province.”

Mark A MacDonald says Boycott “Inspirational” Meeting - The “Cornwall

NATURALLY DELICIOUS ... with the Health Nut

Check out our website www.theseeker.ca Community news is updated DAILY

Is My Place” inspirational evening that is being organized by the City and their CONSULTANTS, is a complete joke. Our elected officials do not need to have another meeting for public input. The public has been telling them about our beautiful waterfront for years and yet chemical tanks are being constructed at the edge of the river. Constructing chemical tanks on our waterfront is a colossal mistake and it proves that our elected officials were sleeping. They should have been on top of this situation instead of reacting now to try and stop it. I encourage the public to boycott this useless event and save their energy for the ballot box this October.

Reminding you that you can place an order during the week for all of your favorite Health Nut goodies…this way you are never disappointed on Saturdays….arrangements can also be made to pick up your order during the week…between 3pm and 6pm…Just e-mail me or call me and we will make arrangements.

Julia Beshara will be back at my shop this Saturday, February 1st, 9am to 4pm selling her amazing organic products. This mom of 5 lives a very natural/organic lifestyle. Julia is a true breath of fresh air and will also be hosting a “Natural Lifestyle Workshop” ( learn to make your own….skin care, beauty products, cleaning products) at my shop on Friday, February 21st…6pm to 8pm…the spots are filling up very quickly…please contact me for more information or to place your name on the list *WEATHER PERMITTING*

to 4pm promoting and selling her amazing nut cheeses (dairy free), you can choose from Gruyere, Brie, Herb and Spice, Sun Dried Tomato…she is amazing and is really making a great name for herself. Her product is doing so well that she is now selling it in many wellknown Natural Food stores in Ottawa and Montreal area…come and meet this amazing lady, taste all that she has to offer, you will love it!!

Cash only please…thanks….*WEATHER PERMITTING* I was so very blessed again last week-end to host an amazing “healthy eating cooking seminar” to 20 individuals that wanted to learn better ways to improve their lifestyle. It is always in making the first step that great changes will happen in one’s life. All in baby steps, one day at a time, this is not a miracle cure or quick fix it is truly learning healthy habits and making great choices. Educating yourself is the best way to learn about all of this from the inside/out.

February promises to be a great month at my shop…so looking forward to all of these amazing, local individuals promoting and selling their product…very fortunate that everyone that walks into my space are wanting to live their best life ever!!! Great local discoveries going on , it is for sure a great way to spread the news about all of the good, healthy things going on in our community….loving it!!!! *My shop is located at 812 Pitt Street , unit 40….where you would find Sharyn’s Pantry, Wine Kits, Wilson’s funeral home….just past Earthway Chiropractic Clinic, on the left side…small restaurant with a black railing around the patio….come on in and see what everyone is talking about….

In health…

Sylvie Thibert (The Health Nut)

As well Lynda Turner (Zengarry Cuisine) will be at the shop, Saturday, February 1st, 9am

thehealthnut@cogeco.ca (email address) www.thehealthnut.ca (official website) 613-931-3119 or 613-662-3834

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DJ

Shellshock

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THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 8

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COMMUNITY EVENT SEEKER

... and who says nothing happens in Cornwall !!!

the SEEKERS KEEPERS Section

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Drop in Family Storytime / Heure du conte familiale porte-ouverte For parents and their kids - 10:00 am to 11:00 am Youth Yoga – 10:00 am to 11:00 am Paws'n Books - 11:00 am to 12 noon Check-Mates – 2:00 pm

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Sunday Cinema – Les dimanches au cinema Presenting : « The Smurfs 2 » - Audience : Family – 1 :00 pm LE MARDI 3 FÉVRIER Club les Mille-Feuilles – 18 h 30 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4 The Forum - Discussion - 9:30am Chess for adults – 6:15 pm Bridge for adults – 6:15 pm

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Scrabble Club- 1:30 pm.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Card Club - Ages 7 - 11 yrs 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

By Cornwall Scrabble Director, Vivianne Panizzon For most people, the Ulu trophy is but a 5 in. mini sculpture that resembles an Inuksuk, but for an Ottawa or Montreal Scrabbler, the Ulu Trophy is a symbol that represents triumph.

On Saturday, Jan. 25, Thirty-two scrabblers, sixteen playing for the Ottawa Scrabble Club and the other half playing for the Montreal Scrabble Club, invaded the Cornwall Public Library in order to participate in the Ottawa-Montreal Challenge. All were determined to put their best strategies to work and their best words forward, in an attempt to have their team bring home the Ulu Trophy.

After a full day and eight games of Scrabble energy, scores were calculated. As in all games and tournaments, there is a losing team and a winning team. After many years at trying to reclaim the Ulu trophy, the Montreal Scrabble Club came out victorious and triumphant.

The Cornwall Scrabble club has just recently joined NASPA. (North American Scrabble Players Association) To play in a rated tournament such as the Ottawa-Montreal Challenge, a player must be a registered member with NASPA. So far, two players have joined, myself and Roderick McDonald; consequently both of us were eligible to play in this tournament. As Director of the Cornwall Scrabble Club, I am proud to announce that Roderick McDonald was awarded “top player” for the Ottawa team in the B Division. Quite an accomplishment! No doubt, a future candidate for the World Championships.

Many thanks to the Cornwall Public Library for enabling The Cornwall Scrabble Club to host this prestigious event at the Library.

Many thanks to all its staff members for going out of their way to make this a most pleasant day.

THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 9 CLASSIFIED ADS: 613-935-3763 ext 2

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THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 11 CLASSIFIED ADS: 613-935-3763 ext 2

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by Sharyn Thompson

FROM MY P ANTRY

SURE TO PLEASE ALL COOKIE LOVERS and CHICKEN WING LOVERS

Over the years, I have collected and tried many cookie recipes. My husband, children and grandkids have about 10 special favourite cookie recipes which they want me to make. The following recipe is one of them. They are nice and crisp with loads of flavour. Extras freeze well, stored best in cookie tins so they won't break or crumble in your freezer. These will become one of your favourites too! Try my easy baked chicken wings. They are just as good as any restaurants with no deep frying!

ENJOY!!!

RICE KRISPIE COCONUT AND OATMEAL COOKIES

INGREDIENTS: we carry all ingredients needed at my store, Sharyn's Pantry 1 cup of butter at room temperature 1 cup of light brown sugar, packed 1 cup of white sugar 2 extra large eggs 2 tsp. pure vanilla 1- 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour 1 level tsp. baking soda 1 rounded tsp. baking powder 2 cups organic quick cooking rolled oats 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal 1 cup angel flake coconut

METHOD: -I used my Kitchen Aid mixer to cream the butter and brown and white sugar until nice and fluffy. Of course, you can do this by hand, using a wooden spoon or mixing fork.

-Add to the butter and both sugars, the eggs and pure vanilla. Beat until well combined and nice and fluffy.

-Sift the flour, baking soda and baking powder directly into the creamed mixture.

-Stir until well combined.

-Stir in the Rice Krispies, rolled oats and angel flake coconut. Mix well.

-Use a cookie scoop (We sell these very handy gadgets, all sizes for muffins and cookies.

peT

pause

You will have all the dough dropped onto baking sheets in record time! You won't believe how you could have managed without one!) or a teaspoon to drop the cookie dough onto parchment lined baking sheets.

-Flatten the cookie balls with a floured fork. Press as thinly as possible to ensure a lovely crisp baked cookie.

-Bake the cookies in a 350 degree F oven for 8 to 10 minutes, until golden.

-Allow the cookies, once baked , to sit undisturbed on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes to firm up. Then gently lift them, using a metal spatula, onto wire cooling racks to continue to cool completely.

-Once completely cooled, store them in cookie tins, with waxed paper placed between each layer. ENJOY!!!!!

EASY BAKED CHICKEN WINGS

Here is a treat you can make for the Super Bowl game.

Rinse the chicken wings under cold water.

Using a paper towel, pat dry all of the chicken wings you wish to bake. Make a mixture of equal parts of Frank's Red Hot Sauce and melted butter. Bake any amount of chicken wings on a baking sheet with sides for about 45 to 50 minutes. Brush the butter and red hot sauce over the wings 3 times during the baking period. I have my oven set at 375 convection roast. If you don't have a convection feature on your oven, just set your oven to 400 degrees F. These chicken wings are just as good as from any restaurant without any deep frying. You will love them!!!! ENJOY!!!!!

Sharyn Thompson Owner of Sharyn’s Pantry OPEN: Monday to Saturday - 9 to 5 812 Pitt Street, Unit 6, Cornwall, Ontario 613-936-1998

EXCLUSIVE TO THE SEEKER

We love our pets. And we believe they should have their own page in this paper too, whether for stretching on, peeing on or playing with. Introducing PET PAUSE, our monthly feature all about pets and their humans.

(Get it? Pet Paws!)

Think your pet is the cutest? Send us your pics! We’ll publish the best one in next month’s edition of Pet Pause...

Dogz and Katz Coiffure® Susan Dalmer Professional Pet Grooming Stylist

Swayze

613-330-2757 email:dogzandcatzcoiffure@live.ca www.dogzandkatzcoiffure.com facebook.com/DogzAndKatzCoiffure

yze. Not Yes, he is named after Patrick Swaof a Point e mor He's yze.

Dirty Dancing Swa He will Break or Roadhouse Swayze. k. truc age garb a fearlessly attack

Princ es Popco s rn

er Snyp

Here are our wonderful pets of the week!

THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 12 BUSINESS ADS 613-935-3763 ext 1

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This week I would like to talk about what I want to do with my photography business, this year. Up until now, I have been willing to do all kinds of photos, for all kinds of clients, but I feel I was stretching myself too thin and not getting the type of work that I love doing the most; working with women of all ages, sizes and types. So, I have decided to make Fashionography more female oriented in 2014. I want to focus more on how Fashionography can be used in a more Positive and Uplifting way. I really work well with women of all ages and my favorite job is to make them feel very comfortable and at ease, before any photos are even taken. I want the ladies that have "low self esteem" issues or if they are not feeling as pretty or as fit as they would like, to come to me for the morning, afternoon or evening and have a Fun and most Positive Experience, that they will never forget; in addition to having a set of photos to cherish for themselves and or their loved ones.

Before having your photos taken at Fashionography I would suggest to the client that you bring your favorite clothes, shoes, boots, etc. that you feel really good in. I can also help the ladies with their make-up and hair and any adjustments that are needed with their clothing. Along with the "photo shoot" I share all kinds of hats and accessories to help you look your very best. By making my "lady clients" feel comfortable and at ease, their "Inner Beauty" shines through and that is what makes for a "Perfect Photo" every time.

I feel it's a Win/Win situation for everyone that is involved. My client goes away with a smile on her face and some photos to share with her family and friends. I come away with a smile on my face because I feel what I am doing is very positive to do for women, and it is very important for women of all ages to feel good about themselves. I want women to feel like women, to be uplifted and to exude their femininity that may have been hidden deep inside of them for way too long. If you, or anyone else that you know, wants to have a "Feel Good," kind of day or wants to feel like a "Model for a day", please contact me and I will be more than happy to assist you in every way that I can.

Tip of the Week: With the frigid weather conditions that we experience at this time of year, we as humans find it hard to walk or even stand outdoors for very long. So Please Think of your PETS, when they are outside. They may have fur coats, but that doesn't keep them warm for hours outside in the freezing cold, with blowing snow conditions. Be Kind to the Furrykind and bring them inside when the weather isn't so pleasant outside. Also New and Exclusive to the Seeker this year is a section called Pet Pause, where you, the reader can send in a pic and story of your precious pets. Please tell your pet-loving family and friends about it. Thank you.

Who YOU were, Who YOU are and Who YOU will be, are three different people. So don't live in the Past, Live for Today and Look forward to Tomorrow, Instead of worrying about it Today.

Until next week: Be Positive and Help out in some small way, whenever you can.

Please Pay It Forward.

Marlene Baker of www.fashionography.ca

by Kris Ward

We can now say that we have nearly made it through the first month of 2014. How has it been for you? It certainly has been a mixed bag of weather this year, to say the least. In order to help our readers stay in the know about the weather, please take a look at a New addition to the Seeker, - Johnny Radar's weekly forecast.

A New Adventure Awaits

kriscrossroads

Positively Marlene by Marlene Baker

Hi there everyone sitting down reading Cornwall's friendliest and most informative and positive paper this week.

As I write this, I am getting ready for my last day in my current department before I take a leave for a new role. It is exciting and yet, I know I will also miss the people I work with and the position itself, but I am ready for this new chapter. My coworkers arranged for a Farewell luncheon and presented me with a emergency travel kit, since I will be travelling frequently from campus to campus. It includes essentials for warmth, and safety as well as a phone charger for my car, since my IPhone can't seem to hold a charge more than a few hours, and a Timmy's card. As I told them it is not goodbye, it is au revoir, and I will see them again and frequently, though not on a daily basis.

During the last two weeks as the Alumni & Donor Relations Officer, we hosted 6 events across the 3 campuses; Grad Fair for our grads-to-be, as well as SLC Alumni at Work events. So many of our grads, including me, now work at the college, and it was awesome to see. The yearbook photos, the discussions amongst the staff and the energy of the students was memorable.

Many think of my transfer to Cornwall a return to the past, and it is true, I am going back to my hometown, will reconnect with family and friends; but I also am getting a chance to explore a new department role and a new me. I have changed and this will give me the chance to explore life in Cornwall with a new attitude, a different perspective and less things.

When I left, I was a homeowner, a very involved mom and active community member. I now lease instead of own, have less furniture, household items and clothes. Although I am still a mom, the dynamics with my son have changed. He is independent and enjoying his freedom as he continues his journey towards his desired career and life. I also know what life is like beyond my own back yard. I lived in a bigger city, visited Las Vegas, and some major Canadian cities, and hope to travel again soon.

For those who know me best, it will give them a chance to see how I have grown. When I tell them I am now a good cook, they try and stifle their laughter, but my culinary skills have improved. I like to try new dishes, eat healthier and exercise more. I plan to entertain more and balance work and play. The biggest change is my need for stuff. I was a pack-rat holding onto everything, and now I reduced everything to essentials. Sure I still have a few special items, but for the most part, I let go.

My new lease starts this weekend in Cornwall, and the slow move back process begins. The boxes are lined up ready to go as my new adventure begins. Now if we can finally see an end to this snow…

Follow Kris Ward’s Blog at www.kriscrossroads.wordpress.com

LE COIN FRANCO Nouvelles De

Découvrir la Chine en sept excursions avec Denis Doutre

Le mardi 4 février prochain, je parlerai de mon expérience personnelle en Chine durant la rencontre mensuelle du groupe de lecture les Milles Feuilles. Cette activité gratuite à la Bibliothèque publique de Cornwall débutera à 18 h 30.

Lors de mes sept voyages d`affaires en Chine j`ai vécu la culture chinoise de près. Je discuterai de la nourriture, des restaurants, des épiceries des hotels, de la circulation routière, des services sanitaires, de l`environnement et de la façon dont on fait les affaires dans le pays de l`Empire du Milieu.

Je vais aborder les visites culturelles que j`y ai faites dans différentes régions telles que Bégin, la cité interdite, la grande muraille de Chine, Hong Kong, Shanghai, le mont Tai Shan, Qingdao et le festival des légumes.

J`aurai des photos, de la monnaie chinoise ainsi que de la monnaie de Hong Kong et d`autres objets rarement vus au Canada.Vous apprendrez même quelques mots de mandarin.

Quand on côtoie une nouvelle culture, il nous arrive souvent des évènements cocasses, d`autres moins plaisants mais dans l’ensemble on découvre une grande richesse culturelle. En travaillant avec des gens qui travaillent dans la même industrie, on apprend beaucoup et l`on réalise rapidement comment la vie de chez nous est très différente de la leur.

Denis Doutre Les Mille Feuilles

THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 13 BUSINESS ADS 613-935-3763 ext 1

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Hey folks – There’s no time like “ Snow Shoe Time!”

by Bob Sloan So what are you waiting for?

Hurry on out, because winter is already half over, and you surely don’t want to miss the rest of the season while it’s still around.

Okay, I have to admit that not “everyone” amplifies the Club members of The Cornwall Outdoor Club enthusiasm that some winter visit The Upper Canada Bird Sanctuary trails. activists share! Most likely the winter of 2014 will go on record as being too long, bitterly cold, and has tested the patience of most Canadians who say, “Enough, already!”

But not so quick…there’s still a bunch of us out here who are rooting for more cold, more snow, and more winter days ahead! It’s been an amazing season thus far from an incredibly early start at the end of November up until now. Usually we don’t see our first hike until late December or even early January – we’ve been spoiled this year with an extended five weeks of winter fun! It’s a wonder not everyone is fed up!

Upper Canada Bird Sanctuary

Just maybe you are one of the many whom I have heard say, “I’ve always wanted to try snow shoeing.” If this is you, then I encourage you to read on, as I will share some experiences that might get you out on the trails before the season ends. I also would like to invite you to join us this Sunday, February 2nd , at the Summerstown Snow Shoe trails departing at 9:00 am. We will lead two walks - basic for 1 hour, and intermediate for 2 hour. Visit their website for directions and snow shoe rentals. www.friendsofthesummerstowntrails.com This will be an opportunity to meet Members from Quebec's Ramblers Club members of local area snow shoe clubs.

I was introduced to the sport six winters ago, and have been out on the trails just about every weekend ever since. Over the years I’ve met hundreds of like-minded snow shoe buffs who have prepared me for the many hikes I’ve been on by offering me guidance on how to prepare for, and brave the elements, safely. Although many of our sorties have been one hour fitness jaunts, some of our trips have been full day adventures deep into the forest, miles from civilization, way up on the side of a mountain in harsh sub-zero temperatures. If you are prepared properly it’s fun and easy to do, and can become a very addictive habit.

Compared to the many winter activities, snow shoeing is a relatively affordable sport that appeals to almost anyone at any age who wants to condition themselves through winter outdoor activities. In fact, it’s quite common to have elderly persons who are in their late seventies with us on our hikes. I’ve always admired at how they have built their stamina over the years to be able to keep up with the fast pace we encourage. Snow shoeing, I can assure you, appeals to everyone, and these ambassadors truly remind us that our health is our own commitment, and snow shoeing is a sport that can provide fitness and fun – safely.

If you had to choose one winter sport then I would argue that snow showing is the best choice, as it uses the full season which pretty much outlasts all the others. Other winter outdoor sports require specific conditions in order to be able to do them, where snow shoeing can be done almost anytime, in any weather conditions, day or night.

Not to “offend” cross country skiing enthusiasts, but as we trek alongside their trails we often find ourselves alone as conditions have limited them to a shorter winter. The cost to maintain ski trails is excessive compared to the little we require to travel the same terrain. Maybe that’s why we find many cross country skiers joining us when their conditions have failed!!!

You might say on a frigid weekend morning that, who in their right mind would bother to get up at 6:00 AM with a bone chilling temperature of – 25 Celsius before the wind chill factor, and head out for a morning workout? Snow shoers would! Believe it or not, there are many groups in our area who do just that. The two groups I usually venture out with are The Ramblers Association, (www.lesrara.ca), or the Cornwall Outdoor Club, (www.cornwalloutdoorclub.ca). Both clubs offer many interesting excursions either locally or to the Laurentiens, and the Adirondacks. Within their clubs, many members

with refined skills are ready to lead groups or share their knowledge to help you along the way.

What’s the cost of snow shoeing? I guess this would depend on how serious you are about getting involved. If you just want to try it out, you can rent the basic gear for short hikes at both The Upper Canada Bird Sanctuary and the Summerstown Trails. Both have great beginner trails and lend to get you started in the sport. However, if you are more committed, then you can expect to spend around a thousand dollars to equip yourself properly for more lengthy trips in mountainous terrain for adventures that take up a full day.

After half a dozen years under my belt, I have determined what gear are smart choices, and although this is only my opinion it may help decide on your best buy, as there are endless suppliers out there who offer all levels of snow shoeing equipment.

Snow Shoes: $200 - $350 I own four pairs of different styles and lengths, but to my surprise I found a good used pair on Kijiji that I finally like the best all around. These are made by MSR that sell for around $200 - $300 and have an aggressive platform with many teeth to support you on hikes especially on icy inclines. There is nothing more nerving on the hills when you can’t get a grip going down a steep slope, where the risk of tumbling down and crashing into rocks and trees is very real.

For peace of mind, I am suggesting this brand of snow shoe.

Poles: $50 - $75 Although poles are not always necessary for your walk, the stability they provide while you trek along, are worth the purchase. If you are a Nordic enthusiast, like me, then you’ve learned the health benefits of walking with poles, and you can use these techniques to provide an upper body work at the same time.

Boots: $140 - $200 The most important aspect when buying boots is that they are Gortex. This is a treated system that provides your boot to be waterproof, while letting the boot breath, which keeps your feet dry. Wet feet mean friction while you walk, which will cause blisters and cold feet. This is not good, especially if you are 2 hours deep in the bush with many kilometers to walk back to the car – don’t scrimp on your boots!

Socks: $20 - $40 Look for Marina wool, designed for hiking and your feet will stay toasty and dry all day long.

Layered Clothing – 3 layers required - Wicking, Thermal, Shell $200 - $500 1st layer -The inner wicking layer or base layer is designed to keep you dry by drawing the sweat away from you skin to the next layer, making you feel warmer.

2nd layer - The middle thermal layer or insulating layer provides warmth 3rd layer -The outer shell layer protects from wind and water and is designed with vents to adjust to your body temperature.

Hat & Gloves: $50 - $100 Most outdoor stores offer a wide variety of products to guide you to warmth and comfort. Look for Gortex breathable yet waterproof, and consider a balaclava face mask for temperatures below – 10 Celsius. It’s important to breath the warm air from your lungs to avoid irritating your lungs.

Gaiters: $30 - $60 These are used to protect you from getting snow in your boots.

FINALLY, A FEW COMMON SENSE TIPS WHEN SNOW SHOEING. Don’t hike alone- Always hike with a buddy. You never know if you are going to get into trouble! Even a simple local hike could leave you stranded for hours out in the cold where there is a real risk of frost bite or hypothermia. Consider how long it would take for someone to go for help and return to you.

The deeper the trek into the bush, the more you must consider a pack sack with extra clothing and emergency blanket and safety gear.

Stay on the trail- Remain as much as possible on the marked trails, where if you wonder off course you could put yourself over creeks or bodies of water without realizing it. In higher mountain areas, you could actually be walking on the tops of spruce trees, and tumble down into them (known as a spruce trap). Not an easy feat to get out of once you’ve dropped into a ten foot hole.

Also marked trails keep you on property that you are allowed to pass on – let’s respect private property.

Hydrate and snacks- Don’t forget you will be sweating and you will need to stay hydrated. Carry enough water for your hike, and keep it in a thermal pack so it does not freeze. Carry snacks that can readily give you energy and may be needed if you get lost or disoriented.

I hope some of these tips help you understand the sport of snow shoeing, and maybe we will see you on the trails this season.

THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 14 BUSINESS ADS 613-935-3763 ext 1

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OUT AND ArOUND COrNWALL with Carol Grant LOLA'S PUB & GRUB - STAFF & REGULARS PARTY Lola's Pub & Grub presented their Staff & Regulars Party this

past weekend. The local pub featured the live band and crowd pleaser Union Duke, "a Toronto folk act that bridges big-city rock with bluegrass and country, defined by their entwining rambling banjos, soaring vocal harmonies, chicken-pickin’ electric guitars and a fast driving, heel-stomping beat." No stranger to Cornwall, this band is a Lola's favourite. Despite a few technical difficulties and illness of the lead singer, the band played on and did not disappoint the large crowd! Kudos to host Robin McRae (from Shantero Productions) and to the staff at Lola's for all of their hard work in planning this event. Food, pet and monetary donations were accepted for charity upon admission and door prizes were donated by Rene Martin (owner of King Street Percussion) and Randy Sauve (owner of Fantasy Realm) just to name a few.

photos of the band Union Duke

GIRLS' NIGHT OUT Naomi Lamarche and her mother

Claudette planned a Girls Night Out this past Saturday, January 25th at the Army Navy Hall. The event featured a black and pink themed night to help raise funds for Maison Baldwin House, a local shelter for women. The event which was open to women only and held at the Army Navy Air Force here in Cornwall featured some local exhibitors that had displays and booths where the ladies could do some shopping from 4:00 to 7:00. It also featured a spaghetti supper with all the trimmings which was followed by a night of dancing to some karaoke hosted by the talented Shelley Harley-Green. Many other local talented women were on-site to entertain the crowd. The night also featured a 50/50 draw, chinese auction, Zumba and door prizes which were graciously donated by many local businesses. The total money collected is still being calculated.

Organizer Naomi tells us that this will be an annual event so make plans to attend next year!

Students and staff of Bishop Macdonell Catholic School recently participated in Literacy Box Car Races. Students designed their own boxes and decorated them with words and images from their favourite books and then raced against each other in the school yard.

What a fun way to promote literacy!favourite books and then raced against each other in the school yard. What a fun way to promote literacy!

THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 15 CLASSIFIED ADS: 613-935-3763 ext 2

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Letter to the Editor ub Smart City Toastmasters Cl eech Join us at our International Sp st Contest and Table Topic Conte on February 5th 2014!

eches You will hear phenomenal spe erience. exp s iou from our members with var pete com to on ve The winner tonight will mo . test con a Are at the

and entertaining!

It will be fun, inspirational

Time: 6:30-8:45 Campus St. Lawrence College Cornwall River Room #3150 2 St. Lawrence Drive, Cornwall See you there!

You can also visit us at a tytoastmasters www.facebook.com/smartci

Does Cornwall City Council deserve a pay raise?

Dear Readers,

During a time when City Council is tightening it’s belt after several costly human resources boondoggles that cost Cornwall tax payers millions of dollars, it is frustrating to know that City Council will pay up to $10,000 to hire a consultant and determine whether or not Council deserves a possible pay raise.

It should be noted that several years ago City Council ignored a recommendation by the Compensation Review Committee to base any pay increases on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) of the previous year.

This would be a simple, fair, transparent and consistent way to regulate any future pay increases.

Here is a web link to the recommendation Council ignored in 2010: http://domino.city.cornwall.on.ca/Active/Development/egenda.nsf/965d04e85bb82eb48525 73ae007b4532/f9f1e41129d48208852576f6004b4921?OpenDocument Perhaps City Council should re-consider the 2010 recommendation instead of wasting more tax payer money.

-Jason Setnyk Cornwall Ontario

Silverstein play at Vu Nightspot in Cornwall Article and Photos by Jason Setnyk Silverstein played in front of a full house Friday night at the Vu Night Spot. The emo rock band from Burlington Ontario, formerly on Victory Records, and now represented by Hopeless Records and Universal Music Canada, played an impressive set of melodies in Cornwall. There was a lot of energy in the crowd, and music fans danced and head banged with pleasure. Lead singer Shane Told told the audience, “I’m happy that we finally played Cornwall”.

One of the opening bands for Silverstein featured Jamie Maracle, who is the manager of Vu Night Spot and the former singer of Fathom Ties. He reunited with the former drummer of Fathom Ties, Daniel Ross, to play a fantastic set Friday night. “The show went really well, it was amazing to see a show sell out so fast in a small town but we did it. Vu Night Spot and myself have been working really hard to have a venue for kids of all ages to come see a great show in Cornwall with acts they enjoy seeing and not having to go an hour away to Ottawa or Montreal for that calibre of show. Silverstein really killed it and enjoyed the venue, even quoting “Why the heck have we not played Cornwall before”, said Maracle.

Opening the concert was Chris Benton with an acoustic set much to the delight of concert goers. There are a lot of talented bands and musicans like Benton that will be hitting the Vu stage soon. According to Maracle, “In February we have some local metal shows. On March 14th, we have a crazy lineup starring “Abandon All Ships” who is touring with “Palisades and Skynet” as well as “Partycat” and Cornwall’s “Here comes Bigfoot”. On April 15th, we have the amazing “Protest The Hero” touring with the insane “Intervals” and “The Motorleague”.”

WAYNE THOMPSON AND THE BRAND NEW BREAKFAST BREW Weekdays 6-10

THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 16

THE BOB & TOM RADIO SHOW

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by Rose Desnoyers

FOCUS ART ON LINE NEWS

It was cold outside on Saturday January 25th but 15 artists from the Association chose to warm the scene by embracing the muse Lavishly Lush at OBO Studios*. The workshop was the inspiration of Caroline Legault, Board vice-president of Focus Art and was made possible by the determination of Adèle Constantineau and Elaine Arkwright.

Tracy-Lynn Chisholm and Emily Macleod, artists at OBO Studios took us on a tropical journey where brilliant yellow, vermillion, hot pink and teal green laced our palette. Tropical music set the pace after the instructors directed us through a series of slides, which familiarized us with style of Gauguin and Matisse and the boldness of the Fauves.

The paintings of the Fauves are characterized by seemingly wild brushwork and strident colors, while their subject matter has a high degree of simplification and abstraction. Fauvism can be classified as an extreme development of Van Gogh’s Post-Impressionism fused with pointillism of Seurat. Other influences are Cezanne and Gauguin who painted in Tahiti.

And there lies our tropical connection.

Each of us left with a bright painting, though for some of us, it was totally out of our comfort zone, but we were definitely pleased with the results.

Envious are you?

We are going to follow this trend at our monthly meeting on February 5th with a Tropical Extravaganza.

There will be still life drawing and painting (watercolour pencils recommended). If you have some materials bring them along but otherwise just come. We’ll supply.

Photographers will have an opportunity to explore the world of macro photography.

An invitation to dress in a tropical style is extended. (Best dressed will win a prize). *OBO Studios, 44 Pitt Street, Cornwall ON

rose Desnoyers, President of Association FOCUS ART Association www.focusartonline.org info@focusartonline.com rosedesn@cogeco.ca

February Fun ...TROPICAL EXTRAVAGANZA Wednesday February 5, 2014 - 7pm Centre Charles-Emile Claude, 146 Chevrier, Cornwall Challenge your Senses and Ignite your Creativity Create an artwork in 20 minutes with any medium of your choice Or Learn how-to’s of macro photography Members and Newcomers welcome

THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 17 BUSINESS ADS 613-935-3763 ext 1 www.theseeker.ca

With the current transition from the high-level to the much shorter lowlevel north channel bridge, it's timely to reflect on some of the relevant and lesser-known history. Isn't it amazing how we can pass by something time and again and either be oblivious to it or not appreciate the object for what it is? Since May of 2000, anyone crossing the local Three Nations Bridge has passed by a memorial garden in honour of a member of the Akwesasne community. The garden with signage, plant life and a large rock faces the main road just south of the former Cornwall Island toll booth and administration building and is shown in the accompanying photo. Another memorial is located at the Mohawk International Raceway in Frogtown NY. Frederick G. (Swasen) Boots, on September 27 1967, at the age of 20, fell some 75 feet to his death while on a pole, painting a section of the five year old north channel bridge linking Cornwall to Cornwall Island. After a wake in the family home, Boots was interred at St. Regis Cemetery. A painter by trade, Boots was also a popular lacrosse champion. Although it was not widely known, the young man was making plans to marry. Boots hailed from a family of 21 siblings, including half-brother Peter Mitchell.

His eldest brother John, pictured above, recalls how the rope connected to Freddy's safety harness frayed from the inside out, failing to break his fall and how the ensuing meagre cash settlement paid for a rear addition to the small parental home next to his on Recreation Road, in which their sister Susie resides today. He reminiscences of their father's store near the main crossroads, which today is a burned out single storey version of a once two storey building. Their father, Mike, would cut hair as well. It was a gathering place of sorts. People would play cards and make carpooling plans for residents who sought employment as iron workers at the missile base near Boston and elsewhere. John also confessed his fear of heights, telling me that it's a myth that Natives have no such fear, simply that they had a harder time in securing "off-rez" employment, so were willing to face those fears in order to support themselves and their families.

At their sister Gloria's home, directly across from their father's former store, she poured over some old photo albums while John and I looked through one of her lacrosse books which featured a few family members.

Susie has a photo from a wedding at which Freddy was the best man. As I was leaving her home, she looked me in the eye and shared: "Not one day goes by that I don't think of my brother."

Freddy's was the first fatality since the bridge opened on July 3, 1962.

However, his was not the only work-related tragedy that bridge has witnessed. The Massena Observer, the Fort Covington Sun and the Kingston (NY) Daily Freeman reported that, on August 11 of 1961 during the bridge's

construction, Hull resident 20 year old Marcel Labonte fell 138 feet to his death while installing a handrail on a section of the bridge on the south bank of the canal. The tragedy took place as his father and two brothers, also bridge construction workers, looked on in horror. Two years prior Labonte lost a brother in a similar accident.

From time to time a story surfaces in which a member of the Akwesasne community apparently fell into a freshly poured concrete bridge column and is entombed there to this day. It would seem that two or more news reports have become consolidated in the collective consciousness. There are accounts of workers falling into molten concrete and becoming entombed there as massive dams were under construction. John recalls five or six such apparent tragedies during the construction of the MosesSaunders hydro dam, including that of Billy Mitchell. Thus far, my trusted fellow researcher, John B., and I have not been able to document those tragedies, but I can conceive of how a bridge tragedy and a dam tragedy during the same massive Seaway project could become merged into one vague memory.

Author Stephen Doheny-Farina in The Grid and the Village: Losing Electricity, Finding Community, Surviving Disaster, reports: "a Toronto paper noted that while a total of forty-two workers on both sides of the border lost their lives during the [Seaway] construction, this number compared favourably with the average of sixty construction deaths each in the building of the Panama Canal, Golden Gate Bridge, Hoover Dam, and Empire State Building."

In an article by Claire Puccia Parham, the author wrote: "Among the most tragic results were the deaths and injury of dozens of men from falls, electrocutions, drownings and the improper use of unfamiliar equipment."

Thirty-three Mohawks died in the collapse of the Kahnawake Bridge in 1907, one of the worst construction failures of all time. Some of them are related to the Boots family. Members of that family are anticipated to be among the 'Skywalkers' to demolish our old high-level bridge.

Understandably, loved ones are never forgotten, yet it's also a real sign of hope to see that those left behind continue to find pleasure and even humour in life's events. John and his wife Harriet recalled how, at their wedding almost 50 years ago, the priest stopped mid-Mass in fits of laughter as it struck him funny that a fellow named Boots was marrying a woman named Foote. The couple also shared how the entire extended family gets together for reunions which include some 250 grandchildren.

THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 18 CLASSIFIED ADS: 613-935-3763 ext 2

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THE SEEKER Vol. 5 Issue 4 - January 31 - pg. 20 BUSINESS ADS 613-935-3763 ext 1

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