May 23rd to the 25th
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Vol. 2, No. 19
The Voice of North Grenville
May 14, 2014
Volunteers make the Thrift Store happen
The North Grenville Times is Locally Owned and Operated
Special pull-out section Home & Garden
Major Vaden Vincent, Area Commander; Doug Carrington; Stephanie Gilmer, former Director of Community Services; Jeff Barrett, Divisional Property Secretary; Lois latimer, former Captain; Mayor David Gordon, Calvin and Aaron Wong and Wayne Lynch. submitted by Calvin Wong The new Salvation Army Thrift Store is open for business at last, and all credit must go to the volunteers who literally put it together and made it happen. Al Brown deserves the greatest appreciation for exemplary work in bringing the team together and being a steady driving force behind the project. For his incredible
support, encouragement and positive attitude. A top notch tour guide who showed off the hard work of others and sometimes of himself. A man who constantly puts the needs of others above his own. Thank you for your support of The Salvation Army. Hans Snippe was awarded the 'get out of my way and let's get 'er done' award for above average quality and ingenuity in the disciplines
of plumbing and carpentry. He single handedly constructed the nicest and largest set of electrical panel doors known to man, and for the simple and chic design of the bathroom vanities, we thank you for your support of The Salvation Army. Ron Leson, man of a million Ukrainian jokes award, for keeping our spirits high with laughter and for working hard and steady when his
boots hit the floor. In recognition of diligence and unequalled work performance on the job site, we thank you for your support of the Salvation Army. Albert Dyks, for exemplary service as he worked steadily, heartily and cheerfully doing whatever was required, often singing as he worked. His positive attitude, joyful smile and ocContinued on page 2
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Erin Wong, Calvin Wong, Ina Dyks, Ron Leson, Al Brown, Mike McCarthy, Andrew Ritskes, Ernie Langennegger, Absent from photo: Tony Alblas
Auctioneer Al Brown (owner of Al’s Used Furniture) with assistant Adrien Vienneau
Linda Antoniak, Calvin and Aaron Wong, Mayor David Gordon with cake maker Susie MacIntosh of Total Move Management continued from front page casional pot of pea soup made working together a delightful experience. Someone who will be remembered fondly by all of us. Thank you for your support of The Salvation Army. Mike Mcarthur - this award is for his electrifying performance in rewiring the building with ingenuity and skilful execution; for being a constant support and lending a hand when he can with a light-hearted disposition and calm demeanour. Thank you for your support of The Salvation Army.
Andrew Ritskes - his hard work and steadfast presence each day was an encouragement to everyone. Given his willingness to do whatever was required when it was required to do, he exemplifies the qualities of a diligent worker who sees the task through to completion. Thank you for your support of The Salvation Army. Ernie Langennegger“master of plaster and other things award”, for outstanding achievement and skillful use of the trowel; for seeing the task through to a blemish free finish, while enjoying every minute of it, this award
rough cut lumber; Fast Eddy's for greatly reducing the cost of waste removal; Kollard Engineering for designing details free of charge for the storefront window; Design review by Humphrey's architectural drafting inc.; Randy Wilkinson at the Township of North Grenville; Rona; Canadian Paint; First Stop Rentals; Georgia Carpets; Total Move Management; Classic Graphics and the North Grenville Times. A sincere thank you to all volunteers who had a part to play, big or small, in this project. This includes the thirty-plus ongoing volunteers who are essential to the success of the Thrift Store, which not only provides clothing and household items at very affordable prices, but also helps those experiencing difficult circumstances in our community.
is for a man with remarkable talent and likeability. A man who truly loves building and makes work a fun place to be. Thank you for your support of the Salvation Army. Tony Alblas - a genuine friend, with a heart for helping and a positive attitude that made working together a pleasure. For his steadfast support and assistance with a variety of tasks that made the job run smoother and maintaining a positive attitude throughout the duration of the project. Thank you for your support of the Salvation Army. Honourable mentions: Jamie Bertrand; Shirley Wicks; Phil Castle; Dave Crowder; Steve Perry; Milfred Harper; Mark Bruneau; Earle McEwen. Local Business Support: Tim at The Wood Source for the generous supply of free
Forging ahead to find a local solution for Kemptville College Nearly two months after the announcement that the University of Guelph’s Kemptville and Alfred Campuses would close, provincial facilitators have finally been appointed. However, the provincially-appointed facilitators are unable to work with stakeholders on a solution for Kemptville College until after the June 12 election. Rather than allowing further delays that put the future of the campus at risk, The Kemptville College Renewal Task Force is busy finding new life for the College during this period. “We are seeking formal Expressions of Interest from May 14, 2014
potential partners interested in providing post-secondary education and research services at Kemptville College,” said Brian Carré, Chair of the Kemptville College Renewal Task Force. “A number of public and private sector groups have already come forward with proposals.” The Task Force is focused on local solutions for Kemptville College that respond to the needs of the agriculture and agri-food industries along with skilled trades while providing reasonable access to relevant and affordable post-secondary education for the people of Eastern Ontario.
will be invited on a campus tour May 20. Successful proponents will be invited to present their proposals for discussion at a Town Hall Meeting on June 14. About the Task Force The Kemptville College Renewal Task Force was established following the University of Guelph’s announcement to close the Kemptville Campus. Members of the Task Force include representatives from the Kemptville College Foundation, alumni, agricultural community and municipal governments.
“We want to hear from potential partners interested in operating the campus and delivering educational services and a research program aligned with the Task Force Mission Statement,” continued Brian Carré. “We’re also looking for innovative programming – such as international education and research, training certification, private and public sector use of facilities, corporate and community partnerships – to ensure the long-term success of a renewed Kemptville College.” The Task Force will be receiving Expressions of Interest until May 28. Proponents
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BEAT THE RUSH Get your summer tires now! 2525 Cty Rd. 43 • 613-258-5800 www.43autoworks.com Back row: Gerry Van Gurp, Geraldine Taylor, Barb MacEachern, Chris Drozda, Front: Pauline Pratt, Executive Director of House of Lazurus, Lisa Deschambault with Steve Jonsson, owner of the Jonsson’s Your Independant Grocer.
House of Lazarus thankful for community’s generosity by Pauline Pratt For all those we serve at the House of Lazarus, I would like to thank the community members of Leeds and Grenville for their generous support at our recent Food Drive. On Thursday, May 8, the staff of Keller Williams, Solid Rock Realty set up
at Jonsson's Your Independent Grocer in Kemptville for a food drive with their "Give Where You Live" event. The response from shoppers was inspiring. "There wasn't a box of cereal on the shelf Thursday morning but now we have a nice selection", said Kim Merkley, Food Bank Coordinator at the House
of Lazarus." It has been a very rough winter for our clients, which means our food shelves were almost empty a week ago." From April 2012 to March 2013, we served 1,233 but that number rose to 1,374 families in the same time period from 2013 to 2014. That represents a significant amount of additional food
needed to serve those who attend our food bank. Experience has taught us that the Leeds and Grenville community members are very aware of, and want to help out with, the struggles of those living in poverty in their community. In all, 1,886 pounds of food, $202 in cash and gift cards were donated, which will help us
For Advertising rates please contact Gord at gord@ngtimes.ca or call 613 258 6402 get through the next month to 6 weeks. On average, we distribute 2,500 kgs of food each month to our families. We would also like to thank Keller Williams Solid Rock Reality and Jonsson's Your Independent Grocer for their involvement and support in the food drive this past Thursday, May 8 and throughout the year.
Kemptville Insurance Brokers Ltd. is proud to be a part of North Grenville’s 14th annual Dandelion Festival. Come stop by our booth on May 24th and May 25th to say hello! Creekside Centre 2868 County Road 43
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Editorial
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Why is North Grenville being left out? years, and yet we are missing out on the investment that is being pumped into local projects throughout Ontario. For example, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food has a Local Food Fund which is providing funding for many of these local initiatives, and there seems to be absolutely no reason why North Grenville should not be benefiting from the Fund. Look at some of the funding that have come to local farmers and growers: Halls' Apple Market in Brockville will receive $82,750 to source products from up to 15 local farms so that families coming to pick apples and pumpkins will also have a variety of locallyproduced food products to choose from, including quality homemade meals they can take home. The City of Kawartha Lakes will receive $26,379 to hire a food system development coordinator
by David Shanahan There has been a lot of activity on the Local Foods front over the past year, and the initiatives taking place in Smith’s Falls, Brockville, and even in Ottawa are finding support in ways that make a difference: money is being thrown at these projects in very large quantities. The question needs to be asked: why is North Grenville not getting involved? This municipality is perfectly situated, geographically, to be at the centre of local food initiatives, food hubs, promotion of small farms, etc. and yet, instead of an expanding agricultural sector, we are facing the threat of closure of the Kemptville College campus. This makes absolutely no sense, socially or economically. North Grenville is facing serious budgetary issues over the coming
to develop and run a series of networking and training opportunities, particularly in the areas of workforce development, and to conduct a feasibility study for a local food hub. An initiative in the City of Ottawa will receive $33,500 to help an Ottawa-Carleton farm grow local vegetable varieties well beyond the traditional growing season for this region. The project will integrate a number of innovative practices and processes, including greenhouses that use heating and water conservation methods to save energy, increase efficiencies and maximize productivity. No-one can say that North Grenville could not have applied for this kind of project funding. There is no shortage of good farm land in our municipality, no shortage of small producers who could benefit from the funds to increase production, increase
employment opportunities, regain the central place our area once had in dairy production: cheese making, yogourt, butter, milk. There are individuals who have been talking about this kind of initiative for years, and have been ignored, or even criticised, by officials and elected representatives in North Grenville. Did you know that the Municipality has an Agricultural Advisory Committee? Or, at least we had one. It has not met for a very long time, and is basically moribund. Councillor Tim Sutton chairs the Committee, but does not seem to have been interested enough to keep it working, despite coming from a rural part of the Municipality. A working Agricultural Advisory Committee would have been in a perfect position to deal with the Kemptville College debacle, to be aware of, and involved in applying
One election at a time opened withing days of the election call. His office in North Grenville is opening on Clothier Street, across from Rotary Park, and there is sure to be a large turn-out of volunteers ready to knock on doors for him. How they will explain the planned Tory cuts of 100,000 jobs in provincial and possibly municipal staff, plus cuts in the number of teachers, etc., will be interesting to hear. The NDP also moved quickly to nominate David Lundy, who finished third the last time. The Liberals were slower out of the box, and nominated Christine Milks, a member of the Police Services Board in Gananoque. Given the context of the election, Ms. Milks was brave enough to announce at her nomination meeting that: “I believe in Canada, I believe in Ontario, I believe in the Liberal values and I believe in Kathleen Wynne”. No-one will object to her first two beliefs, but her faith in the Premier is, perhaps, something not everyone will understand or appreciate.
by David Shanahan You wait four years for an election, and then two come along at the same time! Actually, having the provincial election next month gives the municipal candidates time and space to launch their own campaigns after the fuss of the provincial competition is over. For this reason, the NG Times will begin in-depth coverage of the municipal candidates later in the summer, when residents can focus on local issues and concerns. It seems unfair to the municipal candidates to write too much about them now, when readers will have forgotten it all long before October. So we’re going to take it one election at a time, to be fair to everyone. The provincial contest has taken many by surprise. Kathleen Wynne’s decision to go to the polls has left some political parties in Leeds-Grenville scambling to nominate candidates. The Conservatives had, of course, already got Steve Clark on hand, and his election HQ in Brockville
May 14, 2014
Marketing Peter Peers peter@ngtimes.ca 613 989- 2850
MUNICIPAL CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT SANITARY SEWAGE TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL
NOTICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE ASI Group Ltd. is proceeding with Phase 3 of the Schedule C Class Environmental Assessment for sanitary servicing of Fetherston Mobile Home Park. As part of Phase 3, investigations into alternatives for sewage treatment with surface discharge have been completed. The alternatives have been evaluated and the information centre is planned to provide further information and to receive input and comment from interested persons on the recommended design. Public Information Centre Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2014 Time: 7:00pm to 9:00pm Location: Municipality of North Grenville, Suite B 285 County Road #44, Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Following the information centre, further comments are invited for incorporation into the planning and design of this project and will be received until May 28, 2014. For further information, please contact: Andrew Vitaterna Group Manager, Engineering Services ASI Group Ltd. P.O. Box 2205, 250 Martindale Road St. Catharines, ON 905-641-0941 vitatern@asi-group.com Subject to comments received as a result of this Notice, the information centre and consultation with review agencies, a preferred design will be selected, after which an Environmental Study Report (ESR) will be prepared. The ESR will be placed on the public record for a 30 calendar day review period. Any person or public body with objections to the Class Environmental Assessment may appeal to the Minister of the Environment. Appeals must be in writing and submitted to the minister within the 30 calendar day review period after the ESR has been filed in the public record for public review and the Notice of Completion of the ESR has been issued. Requests received after the 30 calendar day review period will not be considered. This notice issued May 14, 2014
Mailing Address P.O. Box 35, Oxford Mills, ON, K0G 1S0
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Editor David Shanahan editor@ngtimes.ca 613-258-5083
representatives. The lack of an Agricultural Advisory Committee has been a disaster for us. We are losing out on serious provincial grants (which are rare enough, let it be said), and on the vision and drive of the agricultural community. This has been a huge failure of this Council, and needs to be addressed by them immediately. At the very least, draft some farmers on to the College Task Force and see what can be done with that facility to attract fresh ideas and initiatives to North Grenville. And, after the October election, the Mayor will have to ensure that we have a dynamic and fully-functioning Agricultural Advisory Committee in place as soon as possible. Local Food, local farming, Farmer’s MarketFood Hubs can be a big part of the future economic development of North Grenville. Don’t blow it.
Fetherston Mobile Home Park
The Greens had yet to nominate a candidate as we went to press, but it is clearly their intention to do so. Although the re-election of Steve Clark is almost a certainty, given the results last time, it is vital for any democracy to have at least some kind of contest for seats. In 2011, Steve Clark garnered 63.5% of the votes, with a winning margin of more than 17,600 votes over the Liberal candidate, who had just 17% of the vote. Interestingly, the NDP were not far behind the Liberals, with 15%, so David Lundy may find it manageable to do better than Christine Milks this time. However, having only ten people attend your official campaign HQ opening does not bode well for his chances against the Tories. For now, then, let’s concentrate on the provincial campaign and leave the postJune 12 field clear for our neighbours running in the municipal contest in October. One election at a time is probably the healthier option.
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for, these Local Food Fund grants for the benefit of the agricultural community. Its job would be to advise the Council on these issues, to be informed of potential sources of revenue for the agricultural community, and to put the credibility and influence of the Municipality behind such applications by individuals and groups with the imagination and vision to see the possibilities. One visionary was prepared to bring in a local food initiative to Kemptville, but needed a site rezoned. He was refused, although apparently aggregate pits can have land rezoned whenever they want. How many times does it have to be said: no Council has all the expertise needed to make informed decisions on every issue. That is why the Advisory Committees exist, to provide Council with informed advice, so that informed decisions can be made by elected
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A place called “Hope” by Peter Johnson Isn't it interesting how statements made by politicians can generate so much hope...or worry? Take the recent announcement by Tim Hudak. He plans to create one million new jobs and eliminate one hundred thousand public sector jobs. Vital services (nurses, doctors, police) would not be affected. Education? Not vital. There are too many big people in Ontario classrooms, apparently. Their numbers must be trimmed. Trimmed? No, slashed. He would also reduce funding to municipalities. A good idea? If asked, very few of our local politicians would likely agree that they've had too much money in their budget. Lisa McLeod, MPP for Nepean-Carleton said, "The
size and scope of government has grown dramatically in the last decade, we need to reduce that size..." Too many big people in government as well, it seems. Ms. McLeod and Mr. Hudak are probably against big government and big debt. But how do you go about fixing it? Government can't operate without revenue, and there is only one source of revenue for government--the tax payer. Ontario tax payers are already heavily taxed. If you start a list of all the ways that you are taxed in your daily life, you'll end up being quite depressed...but there might not be an agency to deal with your depression after this election. Your hydro bill is a good tax example—if there is such a thing. Even if you used a trickle of electricity for a month, you'd still get hit with a hefty delivery surcharge, and a debt manage-
ment charge that would make you consider sticking a fork in the nearest electrical outlet and ending it all. Then, at least, you would stop paying for someone's bad decisions; those made in the past that are still reaching into your wallet, in the present. We need intelligent solutions. We need intelligent voters. Informed, intelligent voters. Is it fair when people look at Tim Hudak and say, 'He's just another Mike Harris?' Is it fair to brand Andrea Horvath as another Bob Rae? Is Kathleen Wynne nothing more than a Dalton McGuinty clone in a skirt? Surely these people and their spin doctors are smart enough to realize that the mistakes of the past need to be learned from—that the electorate is not so gullible as to believe each and every catchy political phrase pitched at them. So back to Mr. Hudak:
one million jobs. That's a big number. But small compared to the interest paid by the province on the money they borrowed to pay for past grandiose schemes—the ones that they didn't have the money for in the first place. Intelligent, informed voters are not going to fault any leader who reduces government spending, reduces the debt and gets rid of the yearly near-mandatory deficit. Most intelligent, informed voters would be in favour of a smart plan that would pay off debts, eliminate deficits, manage revenues responsibly and create an environment where people can work, plan for the future and live in hope that their children will some day be able to find work with a wage that is not povertyline minimum. B.C. has a municipality called 'Hope'—North Grenville does not. But that is where a lot of us reside.
Pat's: "Oh Really! How to turn left from 43 I was so pleased this winter to see municipal traffic signs telling drivers to move to the centre lane on 43 to turn left. For this, we seniors, thank the municipality for letting us know it's better to turn left from the left side of road than from the right side of the road. We thank you. What were they thinking?
Jumpstart ensures every child has a chance at sports
Submitted by Claire Larabie On May 3, a BBQ was held to kick start Jumpstart Day and raised over $1,000. A big thank you to B&H Grocer, Kemptville and District Little League and Kemptville Youth Centre volunteers. It's wonderful to have groups helping to raise funds for others. The local Chapter will be having another BBQ at the Kemptville Canadian Tire Store from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm May 31. Sponsored by owner, Frank Hoffman, Mayor Dave Gordon will be the first to flip a burger, followed by many others. You can make the difference with your support. During the month of May, leading up to Jumpstart Day, residents can help by hosting a School Toonie Day, Jumpstart Birthday Party, Community Barbecue, weekend car washes, or even a garage sale. Wear a T-shirt to work day - be creative, as every dollar counts. Give a child a lifetime of memories. Every dollar raised will be matched by Canadian Tire. Donations are made payable to Kemptville Canadian Tire who, in turn, lists all donors and forwards the request for matching funds. Adding your dollars to the fund ensures that every child has a chance to dream. Sign up today at askmeone@sympatico. ca or call 613-258-6470
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Municipality Matters
It’s what you don’t see
Karen Dunlop: Director of Public Works In my job as Director of Public Works, I find it hard sometimes to explain to people exactly what it is we do in this Department. But it is what I call the Tangible Side of Life that we handle every day. It is the things that you should only notice if we don’t do our jobs. You would notice, for example, if the roads were not ploughed in winter, or if unpaved roads were not graded during the other seasons. You would notice if your garbage was left on the side of the road every week, instead of being taken away for the price of a Bag Tag. And you would definitely notice if the sewers were blocked, or there
May 14, 2014
was no water in the pipes in Kemptville. The Department of Public Works is responsible for these, as well as many other tangible things in North Grenville. We take care of more than 300 kilometers of public roads in North Grenville, and approximately half of those are paved. Since 2002, council has given Public Works the resources to increase our Provincial Measurement result from 68% to 74% in 2012 of paved roads where the condition is rated as good to very good. That is a job that continues over years, as we work our way through a long list of things that will be undertaken as budgets are made available and staff and equipment are assigned. But the Road Management Division also has to take care of snow ploughing, sanding and salting, snow removal in the urban areas, and keeping the sidewalks clear. This also means buying and maintaining a fleet of vehicles to do all of these jobs right through the year. All of these jobs are regulated in different ways through municipal, provincial and federal bylaws and
The North Grenville Times sets of regulations, and there is a Minimum Maintenance Service Standard By-law that lays down the guidelines and requirements that we have to meet in all of these areas. We are also responsible for cleaning, inspecting and repairing the bridges in North Grenville. North Grenville has received a 100% rating on our winter event response based on compliance with the Municipal Maintenance Service Standard By-law. The Water and Sewer Division might not sound very nice, but that is exactly the kind of thing that gets noticed when the job is not being done properly. This Division of Public Works manages all aspects of the water, sanitary sewer and waste water treatment within the urban core of the Municipality. This means conducting the daily operations and maintenance necessary to ensure public safety in a manner prescribed by governing municipal, provincial and federal legislation and regulations. We also have to plan future construction and maintenance programs, based on demands expected to increase in the near future. The infrastructure needed to supply water and waste disposal needs in North Grenville is
quite extensive, and includes over 70 kilometres of various pipelines, all of which are being monitored and replaced as necessary. The Water Systems Annual Ministry inspection has received a grade of 100% for the last three years. In 2005, Council passed an Infrastructure Master Plan, which laid out the future development of the infrastructure, and since then the Public Works Department has completed a water well rerating, Waste Water Environmental Assessment, installed the East Quadrant Sanitary
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The Voice of North Grenville pumping station and piping, an ongoing inflow and infiltration reduction program, reservoir expansion and have completed the Environmental Assessment for the East well and reservoir. That sounds like quite a lot of technical activity, and it is only a part of what is being done to improve services for the people of North Grenville. Old water mains, only 6 inches in diameter, are being gradually replaced by new 12 inch pipes, which provide greater water pressure for homes and businesses. I could go on for
a long time just listing the various jobs that Public Works does every day, and I hope to give you some more details in future articles. But you can see from this short review of just two of our Divisions that the responsibilities of the people in the Public Works Department are many and varied. All of the people who work in this Department, in whatever division or office, know that what they do has tangible effects on every person in our community, and they do their jobs well. And the work never ends.
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Welcome to our Home and Garden Section for Spring, 2014. In these pages, you’ll find information to inspire you to take a new look at your home or garden and think of how you might want to spend those long weekend and vacation hours. There are helpful pieces on various aspects of adding value to your home, as well as contact information for the many local businesses from the North Grenville area, all at your disposal to make your Spring and Summer an exciting time. Getting out in the garden again, tidying up winter’s remains, and planning a new season is always an exciting project. Throw open the windows of your home and let in fresh air, new colours and textures, and see to those parts that need some upgrade and repair. This year, think about the trees, shrubs and plants you want in your garden. Think about replacing those older windows with energy-efficient ones. Does your septic system need servicing, or a new one installed? What new colours will transform your home and make it seem new again? It’s all here at your fingertips. Keep the insert and use it throughout the year, whenever you need work done around the house or garden. These are all professional and experienced people supplying the community with their skills and assets. Local, easily accessible and responsible to you as valued and trusted customers, North Grenville can boast of a wonderful range of services. And remember: shopping locally and getting your services from a local business is a great way of keeping North Grenville strong and growing economically.
May 14, 2014
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Terracing is a more attractive and appropriate treatment of steep slopes than massive stone walls. The landscape should be an accent to compliment the home, it should not be the dominant feature. PBM Environmental Ltd. often mixes natural stone with engineered stone for a very elegant look. Environmentally and economically, it is a very practical treatment of severe conditions as well. This project addressed a 60 inch grade change!
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Shake up your summer barbecue (NC) Every group has one: the friend that always hosts the best parties, the type of nights people talk about for years. This season that friend can be you. These five easy tips will shake up your traditional summer barbecue and ensure that every get-together you throw this summer is as memorable as the last: Toppings bar: Take your guests beyond the customary ketchup and mustard and create a burger toppings bar. Include a selection of fresh ones like avocado, tomato, grilled pineapple, caramelized onions, mixed greens and even bacon. Add different kinds of salsa, and a variety of sauces including the Carolina Barbecue Sauce and the Yogurt Tzatziki Dressing. Encourage your guests to create their very own custom burgers. Create a signature drink: Having a fun drink made just for your guests will add a sense of occasion to your get-together and a specialty daiquiri, mojito, or margarita with a rim of pop rocks is a fun option. Garnish with fresh fruit, add an umbrella or serve with special straws for extra brownie points. Offer options: Don't stop with burgers. Add an array of mouthwatering options like skewers, sausages, grilled chicken, portabella mushrooms or ribs. Serve a variety of sides: Go beyond the traditional chopped salad and serve up grilled corn, fresh chickpea salad and pickles. Create an experience: Take your get-together to a new level by putting some thought into a great music playlist, grabbing some colourful plates and napkins, and even stringing up some lights. Pick a fun theme for your party and encourage your guests to dress accordingly. Photo courtesy Rideauview Construction
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Garden like a pro: tips for healthy gardening habits (NC) Developing a love of gardening can be a great way to plant the seed for a healthier lifestyle. The many benefits of a green thumb include consistent exercise, reduced stress and better mental health. In fact, a recent study conducted in Sweden found regular gardening can cut the risk of a heart attack and stroke and prolong life by as much as 30 per cent among a 60-plus age group. For those with chronic health conditions, gardening can be an ideal low-impact exercise done at your own pace. But, before you pull on your work gloves, keep the following tips in mind: Target the right tools: Chose lightweight tools that require less energy to maneuver and get rakes or hoes with extra-long, extendable handles to avoid excessive strain. Also, invest in a small stool or bench to cut down on the need for constant bending and kneeling. Watch the weather: If you suffer from lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, watch the weather report and avoid working outside when pollen and pollutant levels are high - these can trigger a serious lung attack. Watch for signs of a lung attack, like increased coughing, shortness of breath wheezing, or unusual changes in phlegm. See your physician if you notice worsening symptoms and also ask if your medication dosages need an adjustment. Head out of the heat: Avoid gardening during the peak hours of 11 am to 4 pm, when the sun is at its strongest and humidity at its highest. If you must be out during that period, plan to work in the shade and drink plenty of fluids. Also, wear a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 that protects against both UVB and UVA rays.
Protect your outdoor woodwork investment
(NC) — With the warm weather at hand, it's time to make the most of our backyard decks, an attractive feature that can extend the living space of our homes. Perhaps your deck, however, does not have the appeal it once had. Due to the effects of weather and time, you may notice the colour has faded and it's left looking a little gray. Could it be that the wood needs to be protected? Appearance can determine if the wood needs attention and a simple splash test will give you lots of information. Just pour a glass of water on the deck. If it absorbs, the wood needs to be protected. The two most damaging elements to exterior wood are water and ultra violet rays. An all in one wood sealer and stain product is recommended and the Thompson's brand tells us that it's easy to make our decks look great again and protect our investments at the same time: apply one thin coat of their Waterproofing stain formula in a semi-transparent or solid colour. To ensure that you get the best protection, prepare the surface by cleaning it with the Heavy Duty Cleaner product. The success or failure of any project usually depends on preparation and proper application. Remember, nobody would wax a dirty car, so there's no point in trying to protect a dirty deck. Cleaning opens the pores and allows the product to penetrate and bond with the wood to improve the appearance and longevity of the protective finish. With the surface cleaned and protected and by allowing it time to dry, you can put your furniture back onto the deck and enjoy the great outdoors. Helpful items for this project: • Old cloths, safety glasses and gloves • The Heavy Duty Deck Cleaner • Deck scrub brush on a pole handle • Garden hose and spray nozzle • Paint tray, brush and pad applicator •Waterproofing stain Ralph Swan is a wood care expert offering services to homeowners.
Photo compliments of MOEX
May 14, 2014
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Quick tips for a backyard and furniture revival
(NC) — Outdoor living space has evolved to more than just a picnic table under a shade tree, or a couple of folding chairs on a patio slab. Now there are multi-level decks, sunshades, pergolas, privacy curtains, coffee conversation furniture, outdoor kitchens and decorative items, each one creating a warm and inviting area to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. The addition of cushions, throw pillows, curtains, sunshades and umbrella adds beauty and shade for the sunny summer days ahead. Most outdoor fabrics have some protection built in but as the material spends more time in the elements this protection can break down. Material that is exposed to the elements can show signs of fading and will usually absorb water. Since no one likes to sit on a wet cushion, there is now something you can do ahead of time. Spray the fabric with a UV retardant formula. Thompson's makes a top-selling spray called Fabric Seal, from its WaterSeal line. Thompson's also tells us that there is a multipurpose cleaning product for fabrics, furniture, vinyl sidings, and wood surfaces. Look for their Oxy line, which is bio-degradable, and since it won't freeze, it stores well in the shed or garage. For this reason it is also ideal for cottage use. FabricSeal protects all types of outdoor fabrics from rain and UV rays, including: • Canvas awnings • Tents • Umbrellas • Outdoor cushions • Hammocks • Sport, fishing and hunting gear • Patio chairs • Flags and pendants
May 14, 2014
Hansen lawn ornament
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Be open to fresh air when indoors
(NC) Clean air is essential for good health. As Canadians, we spend close to 90 per cent of our time inside, so the quality of our indoor air is particularly important. If you're cleaning or tackling a home improvement project, you may be using products that contain chemicals that can be released into the air, such as cleaning products, paints and varnishes or glue. Good ventilation is very important whenever you are using products containing chemical substances, especially if they are labelled with warning symbols. Tips for safe and effective cleaning: Remember to bring in fresh air whenever possible. This will help reduce pollutants that can accumulate to levels that might pose health and comfort problems. Clean regularly to eliminate dust and dirt. Breathing in dust can create breathing problems or worsen an existing respiratory condition. Use kitchen and bathroom fans vented outside to help remove pollutants directly from the rooms where they are created. Consider installing an air exchange unit. Remember to change the filters regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer. To keep homes safe and healthy for ourselves, families and visitors, it's important to try to identify and reduce hazards from the indoor air we breathe. More information and tips are available at no cost through Health Canada's Hazardcheck guide, which you can read or order copies of online at HealthyCanadians.gc.ca/Hazardcheck or by calling 1-800-O-Canada.
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Deck makeover in 10 easy DIY steps 3 steps to clear household clutter
(NC)—One day's work can revive the most tired-looking outdoor spaces. Today's do-it-yourself products make deck restoration as easy as 1, 2, 3, like this: • Splash-test an inconspicuous area for water absorption. If the water penetrates into the wood it needs to be protected. • Wet the plant life around deck and cover it to protect against product run-off. • Wear old clothes, protective glasses and gloves. • Clear the deck of all furniture and decorative items. • Clean with the most effective solutions, like a product by Thompson's called WaterSeal Heavy Duty Deck Cleaner. This product label recommends agitation with a deck brush following the application. • Rinse with a garden hose or pressure washer and wet the plant life after the cleaning process. • Repair loose screws or damaged boards on deck surface. • Allow deck to dry for a few hours. • Protect the finish and your work, with another top-selling DIY product called WaterSeal Advanced Formula. It is available in clear, honey gold, nutmeg brown, and natural cedar finishes. • Clean up all equipment with soap and water.
(NC) Taking the time to tidy up around the house is satisfying and beneficial no matter whether you're selling or not. Begin where clutter irks you most. Whether it's a closet or the garage, tackle one area at a time. Some people find it helpful to set a timer for 15 to 30 minutes at a time and chip away at it until the job is done. Others like to make a day of it. Group things into action categories. Haul everything out to a clear space and organize items into four piles: toss, recycle, donate or sell. If you have trouble parting with an item, focus on how you can help a charity or make money on a garage sale. If you haven't used something in a year, find a pile for it. Examine your clear space and make a plan. Could your space use a fresh coat of paint? Plan a re-organization strategy by considering how you will group items together and which items need to be close at hand. Customize storage accordingly to your needs.
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May 14, 2014
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Take the hard work out of spring cleaning (NC) Look on the bright side. Annual spring cleaning doesn't have to be a chore, but rather a chance to revitalize your home. The tasks come in all shapes and sizes, and more often than not, some items are bound to be overlooked. Real top-to-bottom housecleaning can take hours, but not always. Many of the high-tech home appliances do extra work now, giving us valuable time back every day. So here are a few pointers to put the shine back quickly, and get you out of the house: Nitty-gritty – The best way to get a thorough clean is to tackle the hard-to-reach places. Behind the couch, under the carpet, and in the corners of the basement office, dust and cobwebs reside just waiting to be caught. To get the best results, don't forget to reach high and low. When the chores are done you will appreciate the extra effort. Keep clean year round – Innovative technology in your appliances is an easy way to ensure time-saving cleaning practices are in place, every day. For example, LG's new Fully-Integrated Dishwasher with TrueSteam technology has a third rack to give you the room and flexibility you need and also eliminates the time spent pre-washing. Additional information at: LG.com. Think outside the box – Spring cleaning doesn't have to be lacklustre. Think of those unconventional spaces that are due for a refresh. Dust and grime often reside on doorknobs, light fixtures and ceiling fans, so get creative and switch up your cleaning routine. Let appliances do the work for you – Many appliances have self-clean settings, which saves you the time and effort of scrubbing till they sparkle.
May 14, 2014
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HISTORY
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What a long strange trip it’s been... by David Shanahan There are so many stories to write about the history of North Grenville; but now and again, it’s worth looking into where some of those stories come from. Because sometimes you find stories in the strangest places, and you wonder how they came to you at all. For example, recently, the NG Archives received some donations of documents, photographs and books from various individuals. One book came from Harold and Bernie Patterson. It was a copy of the Five Roses Cook Book from 1913. Originally bought in 1914 at T. A. Kidd’s store in Oxford Mills by Hazel McMartin, it was a treasure throve in itself, bringing back memories, I am sure, for many people of kitchens and baking in older days. But, like so many of these books, it was also full of clippings and hand-written recipes from the past. Taped to the inside cover were two recipes clipped from an old newspaper, unidentified. One was for a sixty year-old man with high blood pressure, and advised: “Avoid hard work and worry”. Good start. Then it gave ingredients for a medicinal draft: potassium iodide and Compound Syrup of Sarsa, to be taken in water. There were handwritten recipes for Lemon Pies, Ginger Bread, Christmas Cake, Salad Dressing, Pickles for meat, and Snow Pudding. There were cuttings from newspapers from the 1940's, and items relating to farming, such as “Directions for using Pol: Pol is an escharotic solution for dehorning young calves”, or information on cow pox. An interesting clue about the owner of the book comes from these clippings, and an article about the Women’s Institute from 1949. A recipe for Cocoa Cake was written on the back of a calendar page from December, 1941, and it has its own irony. Printed above one date, as part of this World War Two-era calendar, are the words: “Don’t say “If” we win the war, say “When”we win the war”. The date underneath is Sunday, December 7, 1941. On that day, Japan attacked Pearl Harbour. Strange coincidence. Finally, there’s a receipt for a subscription to the Family Herald. It is made out to Hazel McMartin, Oxford Mills, May, 1959. Reading through that simple recipe book brings us very close to Hazel across the years. Another recipe book we received recently came from James Eager. It is called the Victory Cookbook, and was published
by the Kemptville Women’s Institute in 1919. Inside the front cover is printed: “Compliments of G. Howard Ferguson”. Did Ferguson sponsor the book for the WI? Like Hazel’s book, this one has clippings and handwritten recipes inside, and yet another story to tell of life in North Grenville a century ago. These books will be carefully preserved by the NG Archives and scans will be made so that they can be read and studied without causing further damage to the originals. Sometimes books can be a surprise. When you open a recipe book, you expect to find recipes, but when I opened a bound copy of the Statutes of Ontario from 1879, I had a pleasant surprise. (You may wonder why anyone would open such a book. But that’s the thing about history and historians - we’re weird.) A member of the Littlejohn family had used the book as a scrapbook, pasting in clippings and odd bits and pieces over the pages of statutes. They date from between 1931 and around 1948, and they range in subject matter from obituaries of local people, to items about the Dionne Quintuplets and the Canadian forces in World War Two. There are recipes, of course, and newspaper stories about the fire that destroyed the Allan Hotel on Prescott Street on New Year’s Eve, 1939. The hotel was on the site where the Scotiabank was until recently. Obituaries include members of the Moffatt, Littlejohn, and Maley families. One records the death of Mrs. George McMartin of Oxford Mills, who left, among other offspring, a daughter named Hazel “at home”. This is the same Hazel whose Five Roses Cook Book we talked about earlier. May I note here that I only noticed this obituary and Hazel’s name as I was writing this. That is what history is like. People you never heard of before get introduced through their cook book, and then turn up again in the obituary of their mother. These are just three books I have had the pleasure of looking through recently. The NG Archives holds so many other books, newspapers, photograph albums, family Bibles, letters, autograph books and a host of other items, all of which tell us the story of our past. They are being cared for, preserved and protected, by the NG Historical Society, who own and operate the NG Archives. Through the work of the NGHS, these stories will be recorded and, most importantly, retold to new generations of neighbours. www.ngtimes.ca
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THE DANDELION FESTIVAL by Shaun Vardon The Dandelions are out and the businesses and residents of North Grenville are gearing up for the 14th annual Dandelion Festival [www.thedandelionfestival. ca], taking place on Prescott & Clothier Streets, May 23 – 25, 2014. This year’s festival celebrates the sights, sounds, and flavours of Kemptville and the surrounding communities. Kicking off this year’s festival on Friday May 23 is the exclusive, al fresco, Dandelion Dinner. Guests will be treated to a dandelion inspired feast that showcases some of Kemptville’s finest chefs. Singer-songwriter Marta Pacek http://martapacek.com/ will provide the soundtrack for this enchanting evening under the stars. Tickets for the Dandelion Dinner are $75 and we are almost sold out so get yours fast! Foodies are encouraged to get their tickets by visiting the Dandelion Festival’s Indi-
egogo page, and contributing $75 for the Gala Dinner perk. [https://www.indiegogo.com/ projects/the-2014-dandelionfestival-back-on-the-street]. Saturday May 24th is packed with fun for everyone – Some entertainment highlights : The Ottawa Senators community team will be here with slides and jousts to delight the family and Senators mascot, the famous Spartacat http://senators.nhl.com/ club/page.htm?id=49051 will be on Prescott St from 1 to 2pm to meet and greet the crowds! Opening the Grenville Mutual Stage on Clothier St, at 5 pm, is Illusion, followed by the My View Film Festival Awards where a grand prize of $1000 will be awarded to a local budding film maker. http://www.myviewfilmfest. ca/ Then things heat up at 7 pm with Twin Voices, http:// www.twinvoicesmusic.com/
followed by our headliner, Juno-nominated songstress Amanda Rheaume, http:// www.amandarheaume.com/ On Sunday May 24th, get ready to stomp your feet and clap your hands with Jan Purcell & Pine Road – the award-winning bluegrass group hailing from Wakefield, Quebec. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=bCduZwhaaFo Throughout the weekend the Rock My House stage and the Hulse, Playfair & McGarry stage will be packed with entertainment for all tastes. From theatre and talks to Karaoke and childrens entertainers, we have it all. The Grenville militia will be on hand all weekend http:// grenvillemilitia.ca/ to take you back to yesteryear and the founding of Kemptville and the surrounding area. Planning the festival is an enormous undertaking and is entirely volunteer-driven. To support your commu-
nity festival, please consider making a financial contribution through the Dandelion Festival Indiegogo crowd funding campaign. Contributions start at $5.00, are tied to perks, such as limited edition festival t-shirts and tickets to the Dandelion Dinner. The festival is grateful for the support of its funders: We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage. Nous reconnaissons l'appui financier du gouvernement du Canada par l'entremise du ministère du Patrimoine canadien.This project is funded in part by the Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation. Thank you to the Municipality of North Grenville. Media contact: Julia O’Grady, Festival Manager — dandelionfestival@outlook.com
Memorial Family Classic by Mike Valcour It is coming up to that time of year again. This is the twenty third edition of the Memorial Family Classic. This year’s event will take place June 14 at the South Gower ball park. Last year we passed the one hundred thousand-dollar point in raising money for this cause. What started out as the Vandentillaart’s Family Ball Tournament has turned out to be an annual gathering of friends and family giving back to our community. The ball tournament started out as a way to raise some money to help those in our community that are battling a debilitating disease. It was started in Ron Vandentillaart’s name the year before he was taken from us way too early. It was later renamed the “Ron Vandentillaart-Brenda Finnerty-O’Neil” tournament after Brenda became ill and left another empty place in our hearts. The tournament ran this way for several years until the committee, a few years ago, changed our name, but not our mission, to the “Memorial Family Classic.” The reason for this change was not to forget where we came from, but, unfortunately, other people who were involved in the tournament from the start, or for many years, were also taken from us too early. We remember them all in our hearts. Our mission statement is: “The Memorial Family Classic Ball Tournament’s purpose is to raise funds, to
provide some financial support to our Kemptville and surrounding area residents, who have been diagnosed with a debilitating disease and whose support and privacy are respected.” Our vision is: “To inform our dedicated participants. The funds raised are solely donated to individuals and their families for expenses during a lengthy illness.” Our values: “To be trustworthy in all we do. To be responsible and accountable for the funds raised. To treat our participants, volunteers and committee members with respect and honesty. To embrace an ethical fundraising practice.” We cannot put on a tournament like this without the support of the business community that has been so kind to us over the years, donating prizes for the raffle table or giving us donations for the meals. The teams that come back year after year are the biggest reason we can do what we do. We have teams that have played since day one of the tournament. It is all about fun and a gathering of family and friends for a day. Even if you don’t play, come out for the day and enjoy yourself. If you are interested in donating a prize, or lending a helping hand, please feel free to step forward to one of the committee members. Thanks to all for the years of giving back. If you would like, please feel free to contact Mike Valcour at mikevalcour@ripnet. com
TAKING PART IN OUR COMMUNITY Photo by Micheal Pacitto
On Saturday May 10, M&M Meat Shops hosted a Charity BBQ Day to draw attention to Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. A total of $1500 was raised by Bruce and his staff at their M&M Meat Shop on County Road 43 as they cooked up a storm. The 400 + M&M Meat Shops across Canada hope to raise $1 million in one day.
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LYME DISEASE AWARENESS:
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*NOT ALL TICKS CARRY THE LYME DISEASE BACTERIA
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When hiking or walking in natural areas. Ticks are more visible on light colours and harder to attach on clothing. Insect repellants with DEET also provide protection. Follow directions for use. After being outdoors, check for ticks and have someone else check your back. A quick shower may help too.
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size exaggerated for illustration
Unfed Tick
Fed (engorged) Tick
If the tick on your body looks like the unfed tick, it means it was probably attached for less than 24 hours. This is not enough time for the bacteria to transfer. If the tick on your body looks like the fed (engorged) tick, it probably has been attached longer and may have transferred the bacteria. Consult your doctor.
A bulls-eye rash may be present around the bite. Other symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue or muscle/ joint pain. These may disappear, but if left untreated, Lyme disease can progress. Consult your doctor if you are developing symptoms.
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Performance
Automotive Est. 1994 Quality Repairs to all Makes and Models Exhaust, Tire, A/C and Advanced Diagnostic Specialists Computer Alignment
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Randy’s Performance Automotive Randy’s Performance Automotive is a friendly shop looking forward to fulfilling your automotive needs. We have provided our customers with superior service in a professional environment for over 20 years. This way we can attend to your automotive needs in a pleasant and courteous manner. Randy’s was opened in 1994 by Randy Urslak who has a very wide range of experience, from general repair to engine building and custom exhaust fabrication. Our shop is staffed by a team of strongly skilled professionals with many years of experience and a strong knowledge base. Ron Bates, Richard McKenney, Steve Schafer and Scott Gibbons are committed to providing superior service and maintenance for your vehicles. We have state of the art equipment and tools which allow us to specialize in 4 wheel alignments and computer diagnostics. We look forward to seeing you when you come to our shop where you will receive the most professional and quality servicing of your automotive needs.
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Fundamentals
Most of the Time by David Shanahan The twentieth century was hard on the human race. The previous century had been, in general, one which built us up and provided us with an outlook that seemed to promise great things. Evolution was a concept applied to more than biology, it ruled every aspect of life. Mankind, as we were known, was going somewhere: progress was the ruling principle of all society. The spread of democracy, the Industrial Revolution, the expansion of education and literacy, the abolition of slavery and child labour, the rise of the Nation state; all of these things, happening through the century, and capped off by Darwin’s theory that we were on an upward journey - the Ascent of Man - made people believe that things were becoming more civilised, more advanced. The negative aspects of this progress were seen as inevitable and temporary transitions on the way to Utopia. Long before Hippies and love-ins, communes and communal living were attempted in the 1800's. Poets like Walt Whitman and William Blake prefigured the Beats and the troubadours of the Folk scene, like Dylan and Phil Ochs. Society be-
lieved that progress was inevitable, a sign of evolutionary inevitability, of their own personal and national, even ethnic, superiority over the past. Philosophers and academics began to believe that God was dead, because Man no longer needed him, no longer was tied to superstitious belief in the transcendental. Some believed, in fact, that Mankind was the true transcendental element in the Universe. Most believed that Mankind itself was on the way to divinity. But the world of the Utopians collapsed about a hundred years ago, most effectively between 1914 and 1918. The reason the Titanic disaster was, and is, such a traumatic event, is that it had seemed an impossibility. Science and technology was supposed to have got beyond that kind of thing in the progressive West. But the statesmen of Europe were in tears as they declared war on each other in 1914, because their technology and schedules were forcing them into devastation. Or else they rejoiced that their technology was going to be used in a triumphant proof of their nation’s superiority. The Twentieth century brought us World Wars, Depressions, Holocausts, genocide. And it seemed that, for every incredible advance in
science, there was a dreadful price to pay in unseen side effects. Possibly the bloodiest century in human history revealed that we were not, perhaps, as civilised as we thought. Religion could not be blamed, after all, for every war and injustice. Progress was beginning to poison our atmosphere and choke our rivers, lakes and oceans. We were forgetting how to grow our own food. Food itself was less real and more damaging to our systems, which were developing allergies and illnesses to blight our longer lives. The Sixties seem, in retrospect, to have been a time when younger people reacted, looked for something more than the material Utopia of the post-war world. Peace and love and freedom seemed like fresh, new ideas, no matter how many times they had been “discovered” in previous generations. It was not naivety, or mindless idealism: it was hope. But two Kennedys and a King later, after Vietnam, Watergate, IranContra, and so many other disillusions, came the Great Distractions: video games, the Internet, Apple and Microsoft, to insulate us, isolate us, allowed us to retreat into a personal universe where we no longer know the names of our neighbours, no longer allowed our children to play outside, no longer believed that schools were actually educating, and governments no longer interested in our
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concerns. The prevailing philosophy of our society, and one with which we were indoctrinated, was that all that mattered and was real was whatever we could see, touch, smell and hear. Everything was relative now, no more absolutes to fail us, no more truth applicable to all. God was whatever you decided he/she/it should be. In fact, everyone could have their own god, lots of gods, or no god. It didn’t matter, because none of it was ultimately real. As a result, we live in a society that is falling apart because, if everything is relative, if truth and values are what you want them to be, then nothing has real value. If everything is equally true, then nothing is true. Words lose their meaning. But what if this is all wrong? There have been so many times like this in history, when a general malaise seemed to fall on the world, and everything seemed threatening and out of control. We live such short lives that we don’t really have the perspective that allows us to see our own times clearly. I know, this hardly seems like a “religious” article. Hardly the kind of thing a Christian should be saying. But that is precisely what Christians have been saying for two millennia: that the world is broken, and in need of serious TLC. But also, that there is Good News: there is a reason why we feel lost and need to
make up our own philosophy to survive. We should reject the pie-in-the-sky answers of “religion”, science or whatever, and be satisfied with nothing less than Reality. We need to ask serious and honest questions and stop being satisfied with second-hand ideas. One of the characteristics of this disillusioned and lost generation is that we have taught ourselves to believe in contradictory things. We have accepted theories and philosophies that seem profound, but are, on examination, nothing but assumptions and based on nothing but abstractions. We take our stand on certain statements of principle that have no foundation in reality, and don’t even notice, because we simply accepted them without thinking them through. For example: to those who say they don’t believe there is anything beyond what can be empirically proved by scientific means, I say “Prove it”. By definition, you can’t. If there is a reality outside what we can observe with our senses, then we cannot disprove its existence through observation by our senses. This may seem academic, but look around you. These assumptions and theories have had an effect on how we live, how we act, how we connect, or fail to connect with each other. They are slowly destroying us and the world in
dation originally established by Thomas Assaly’s father. Now, the Assaly family, led by Thomas Assaly’s brother, Robert, is seeking to have $5.3 million returned to the charitable foundation; funds they claim went missing from the books of the foundation after Thomas Assaly took over management. The application to have these sums returned was made to Doyle Salewski Inc., and lawyers for the family say that, if the receiver refuses their request, they will go to court to recover the money. This
comes as a shock to the investors in the South Gower project, as it means that there would be nothing left for them to recover, and their entire combined investment of $3.3 million would be lost forever. Robert Assaly, a Catholic priest living in Killaloe, regrets that this would be the result, but considers that he has to put the family’s interests first. As the Assaly Saga continues to wind its way through the varied procedures involved, the property on Whitney Road, where it all started and where a number of North Grenville residents worked for Thomas Assaly, has been sold and the last link with North Grenville seems to have ended. But the ripples continue to spread, in Canada and Florida, as the Assaly family strive to recover from the actions of one of their own.
which we live. How many of us would like to swop places with our children, or grandchildren, and live in the world we see coming to them? That says something, doesn’t it? This “progress”, this Descent of Man, is inevitable unless there is something more, something that transcends and gives real meaning and purpose. So here is another thought: by definition, there can be only one Supreme Being (which we call God). You can’t have two Supreme Beings, because then they are not supreme. If you want to have many gods, then each one cannot be Supreme, or God. The question then becomes: is there one Supreme God? Isn’t this worth thinking about? Isn’t this even more important, ultimately, then politics, sociology, psychology or hockey? This is not pushing my beliefs: if it were, I’d be telling you how to live, what to believe, etc. This is simply asking questions, and suggesting that there may be answers worth looking into. Christianity is not, perhaps, what you’ve always thought it was. It is not going to church, it is not having a particular political bias, and it is most certainly not about power, position or titles. Most of the time, we can live with things as they are. But sometimes, we need more. There is more. He is there, and he is not silent.
The Assaly saga continues by David Shanahan A major international financial scandal that began on a quiet road in South Gower continues to send ripples through the courts and the banking and financial sector here and in the United States. It began with an ambitious plan to build eastern Ontario’s first gated community on Whitney Road and developed into a court case where the developer, Thomas Assaly of 1001 Whitney Road, was accused of using more than $3.3 million of investors’
May 14, 2014
money to fund his own personal lifestyle. The money was gone, and neither the South Gower project, nor a second one planned for Smith’s Falls, ever came to pass. Much of the missing money appears to have been spent renovating Assaly’s home in Florida. The property, known as Canada House, has been seized by the Interim Receiver, Doyle Salewski Inc. and Assaly has been ordered to vacate the house by June 9. In addition, Doyle Salewski Inc. have now taken action against TD Bank and one
of its officers, claiming that they administered the funds negligently, by allowing them to be used to renovate Canada House, and by helping to arrange a mortgage on the South Gower house, thereby denying the investors the opportunity of recouping the property as part of a settlement. The potential sum available for recouping by the investors may well be negligible, if the Assaly family succeed in another recent development in the Assaly Saga. The investors funds were channelled through a charitable foun-
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CROSSWORD
ACROSS 1. Russian emperor 5. Grave marker 10. At the peak of 14. To fancy (archaic) 15. Toss 16. Murres 17. Illogical 19. Deliver a tirade 20. 16 in Roman numerals 21. Beginning 22. Passes out 23. Adolescent 25. Successors 27. Commercials 28. Signalman 31. Fuzzy fruits 34. Loose fitting cloak 35. Gorilla 36. False god
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37. Jails 38. Anagram of "Ties" 39. Prefix meaning "Modern" 40. Tribes 41. Verify 42. Dawdling 44. Fitting 45. Cleansing agents 46. Greenery 50. Offspring 52. Choice 54. Crimson 55. Rate 56. Nutritious 58. Varieties 59. Donkeys 60. Initial wager 61. Where a bird lives 62. A black tea 63. Untidyness
DOWN 1. Between 2. Wait on 3. Eagle's nest 4. Ribonucleic acid 5. Insect wounds 6. Not these 7. Sea eagle 8. Abhorrences 9. Hole-making tool 10. Dawn goddess 11. Interpret 12. Pig sound 13. Taps 18. Batrachians 22. Brass component 24. Found on a finger 26. Auspices 28. Seeking damages 29. Sweeping story 30. Stink 31. Warm-hearted 32. Notion 33. Bags of wool 34. Switch 37. Radar signal 38. Outbuilding 40. Greenish blue 41. Remedies 43. Not highest 44. Death 46. An small olive-grey bird 47. Pee 48. Leases 49. Borders 50. Whirl 51. Wan 53. Twice-baked bread 56. Short sleep 57. An unskilled actor
by Pat Babin
Polka Dots A very, very light poem for you to enjoy. Yes, grammar can be fun. I hope you noticed that I terminated both of the preceding statements with polka dots. Punctuation Marks The period is a busy man. A small round traffic cop. He blocks the helter-skelter words And brings them to a stop. The question mark’s a tiny girl, She’s small but very wise; She asks too many questions For a person of her size. Of all the punctuation folk, I like the comma best. For when I’m getting out of breath He lets me take a rest.
Quotation marks are curious. When friendly talk begins You’ll always find these little marks Are busy listening in. The exclamation mark’s an elf, Who is easily excited. When children laugh or cry or scream It’s then he’s most delighted.
Whenever you come to the end of a thought, You sign it off with a polka dot.
The Schools Book Project
SUDOKU Easy
Medium
Kemptville High School in flames, January 8, 1936 by Doug MacDonald
Hard
Solution to last week’s Crossword
There are many things to show and many stories to tell at the sneak preview of the Schools Book Project on May 24, during the Dandelion Festival. First of all, there will be the 1914era fire engine from the North Grenville Fire Service which will be parked in front of the Court House on Water Street. Not only have school children been fascinated by this engine for one hundred years, but it played a role in the story of our schools.
On January 8, 1936, it was called out to the fire that destroyed the old High School on Prescott Street, which had been standing there since 1888. Tragically, on that night, fire fighter James Ault lost his life while fighting that blaze. Again, on March 18, 1936, just three months after the High School fire, the engine was called out to fight another fire, this time at the old Public School, which dated from 1873. It stood on the site of the B&H store, and was also completely destroyed by the fire.
All of this history, even before one steps inside the Court House to view the display of recently acquired rare memories, mementoes and memorabilia from families and former students of the schools of South Gower, Oxford-onRideau and the Village of Kemptville, along with documents gathered from the Archives of Ontario, and items from the permanent collection of the North Grenville Historical Society. The public is invited to bring to the Show and Tell items from their personal collections, specific to the history of our schools between 1808 and 1964, and to greet friends and class mates (a mini-reunion) from school days past. A special invitation is extended to all who were part of the story of our pioneer schools and to school teachers, trustees, parents, administrators, and to the students of today. The Pioneer Schools Show and Tell takes place at the Court House on Saturday, May 24, at 15 Water Street, Kemptville, from 10 am to 3 pm.
Solutions to last week’s Sudoku
May 14, 2014
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COMMUNITY EVENTS
CLASSIFIEDS
First 15 words are FREE for North Grenville Residents. Extra Words: 50 cents a word
SERVICES Spinning lessons, 2 & 3 Sun. each month, on spindle or wheel, free spindel and wool. 613 269 4238 Braided mat lessons, 2nd & 3rd Sunday, each month at “Beginning Again School” . 613 269 4238 Weaving lessons, April 27 269 4238
Nutritional Counselling to customize a wellness plan for all your health concerns. wholesumapproach.com 613-258-7133 Qualified English tutor reading,writing, grammar, etc.. I make it fun 613 269 2367 Are you looking for Avon Products. Call Joan at 2587644. Osgoode Mini Storage available. Short and long term units available in various sizes. Clean and secure, comparative rates. Call 613826-2511 Yoga for everyone. Wednesdays 5:30 - 6:30 and Thursdays 12:00 - 1:00 at Your Independent Grocer. Call Maureen 258-9902. House Cleaning-Every working Mother and Father needs a House Wife. Each home is custom priced to ensure my cleaning will meet your needs & budget. Sandi 613219-7277 Grade 9-11 MATH TUTORING: Local math teacher, 4 years experience. Old Town Kemptville, $30/hr 613-863-5639 Stonehouse Studio Sewing - new in Kemptville! Alterations or new; formal or casual. Sharon 224-3182 HANDYMAN, no job too big or too small. I can do it all. Free estimates and references available. Paul 613791-8597 DRUM LESSONS - Professional drummer/teacher accepting students. All levels welcome! Bryan Valeriani 613 298 5913 www.drumhead.ca Helen’s Sewing Room All kinds of sewing 613 258 5584 Rock My House Music Centre offers lessons in Piano, Violin, May 14, 2014
backsplash, and much more Guitar, Drums, Bass and Vocals. in desirable neighbourhood 613 258 5656 across from the hospital. $ 1250 To $1400 a month. WaKemptville - Shop AVON at home ter, condo fees and 1 parking Personal service and 100% guar- spot included. Heat & hydro antee. Anne Hunt 613-258-3806 extra. Move in today. For more information call Mike baashunt@sympatico.ca (613) 325-0754 or (613)3662007. Bowen Therapy. Restore your health. Pain, Respiratory, DiFOR SALE gestive & more. 613-799-3315. Window air conditioner h12” www.BowenKemptville.ca wd16” dp15”, 6000 BTU, reOne Tear Studio, Paintings/ mote; used 3 mths, cost $189, Soapstone Sculptures/Butterfly sell $95. Call 613-215-0816. Hearts. Visit by appointment or chance www.HannaMac- Dining table, 6-1/2 ft long w/ leaf, $300; photocopier, $60; Naughtan.ca (613) 258-7297 privacy screen, $40; sofa table I Can Sew It: Rhonda Cybul- $300. Call 613-240-5622. skie-613-258-5248 Rhonda@ Full size Connelly Pool table ICanSewIt.ca with accessories. Excellent Al’s Cleanup Services Dump runs, condition, $1800; buyer must Grass, Landscaping Al Scott R R move. Call 613-258-7049. #1 Oxford Station(613) 258-3847 Firewood, cut, split and delivHouse Cleaning - Kemptville ered $100/cord. Call Peter at area. For quote call 613-294- 258-5504 0385 or dhlacombe@gmail.com Photocopier & Stand $60, NEW Property Clean up, yards, ga- in-box Brother MFC-J80W Mulrages, basements, loads to tifunction Inkjet $125, NEW dump,anything removed. 613- Nikon Coolpix L22 Camera $50 – Call 613 240-5622. 258-7955 WANTED w Sienna Fine Arts Art Classes and Supplies www.siennafinearts. Retired senior needs old car batteries - making canon com 613-878-9706 balls (weights used for deep Commercial/Residential clean- sea fishing) 613-258-6254 ing- Kemptville area. For quote Hay field 20 Acres, needs email Mrandmrsclean613@ haying. Kemptville Area, gmail.com or call 613-867-2184 Call Sean: 613 215 0315
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Youngsters of Yore, Kemptville Public Library, 1:30 pm. Guest speaker Scotiabank-Fraud Prevention. M ay 17 Bishop’s M ills Community Day. Community-wide yard sales, bake sale, silent auction, craft sale, displays and much more. For more info, call Victor Desroches at 613-258-2115. M ay 21 BR+E Alliance Business Seminar at Kemptville College, Parish Hall, 6:309:30pm (Doors open at 5:30 pm) - Feature Presentation “Employee Attraction, Retention, and Training”. FREE M ay 22 The French Connexion: le quatrième jeudi du mois, le groupe communautaire francophone se rencontre pour partager un repas d'amitié. Nous vous invitons à nous joindre le 22 mai à 18h30 au Comfort by AJ's. Merci bien de confirmer votre présence à l'adresse courriel : thefrenchconnexion@yahoo.ca. M ay 23-25 The 14 th annual Dandelion Festival, taking place on Prescott & Clothier Streets. This year’s festival celebrates the sights, sounds, and flavours of Kemptville and the surrounding communities. M ay 25 Anniversary Service, St. Andrew's United Church, Bishop's Mills, 10:30 am. Minister- Rev. Melany Cassidy-W ise. Guest Speaker- Rev. Edward Colwel. Guest Musician- Joyce Lindsay. Potluck lunch to follow in the Church Hall.
Weekly and recurring events W ed
Thurs
Tues
Fri
YARD SALE
Faced with a drinking problem? Perhaps Alcoholics Anonymous can help. Contact 613-316-6329 or online: District 48 aa
Yar d s ale May 31s t at Nor th Grenville Communit y Church 8-2
FOR RENT
Large Yard Sale 1683 River Road, Saturday, May 17 rain or shine
215 Barnes St., 2 bdrm house/garage, beautiful backyard. Avail. June 1, w/ appliances, ideal 1 bdrm/office. Call 613-794-1031.
Communit y Yard Sale, Sat. May 24, 8am to 4pm County R d . 18 , b e t w e e n 918 a n d 1115, between Oxford Mills & Bishop’s Mills
Available July 1st. two bedroom apt. in Kemptville. 800.00 + utilities. 613-2584741
MOVING SALE: SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!SATURDAY MAY 17th, 2014. 2086 County Rd. 20 Oxford Station Used furniture, elec tronics, toys, and much more!
2 Bedroom’s, $500.00 each/ monthly, w/shared Kitchenette, Living Room, Bathroom, furnished w/Internet.”. Call 613-258-7703 or e-mail 2_ tim215@cogeco.ca 1 Month f ree rent! Brand new 2 & 3 bedroom terrace home condos. With stainless steel appliances, washer & dryer, ceramic tile, ceramic
Mels Farm All Animal Rescue needs Foster Homes 258-7488 (Melanie) Foster co-ordinator for North Grenville/ Merrickville areas.
The Voice of North Grenville
Sat M on M ,W ,F
The North Grenville Photography Club - Meeting first W ednesday of every month at the Auditorium at the Municipal Centre on Hwy 44. For more info see ngphotoclub.ca. Bingo- First and third W ednesday of the month, Kemptville Legion. Games start at 1 pm. All welcome. Refreshments available. Klub 67 Euchre every 2 nd & 4 th W ednesday of the month starting at 1:15 pm, St. John's United Church downstairs. Everyone welcome - $5. Vivian Howe 613-258-2540. The Branch Artisans Guild, North Grenville Community Church,, 2659 Concession Street every 3 rd Tuesday, 7 pm. New members welcomed! Probus Club of North Grenville meet third W ednesday of every month, St. Paul's Presbyterian Church---9:30 am gathering Time, 10 am meeting. Come and enjoy great speakers and fellowship. New members welcome. Bridge - St. John’s United Church, 6:45 pm. Cost $5, partner preferred but not necessary. For more info, contact Sandra at 613-258-2691. North Grenville Toastmasters - Meeting 1 st & 3 rd Thurs. of the month, 7 pm at O’Farrell’s Financial Services, Cty Rd 44. Info, call 258-7665. BNI Netw orking Group Breakfast- Alumni Building, University of Guelph, 7-8:30am. Call 613-258-0553 for more information. Bridge- St. John’s United Church, 12:15 pm. Cost $3, partner preferred but not necessary. Info, contact Sandra at 613-258-2691. M others of Preschoolers Support Group-St.John’s United Church, 6:30-8 pm. W hether you’re a townie, rural, stay-at-home, working, teen, adoptive, special-needs, single or married, MOPS is for you! For more information, call Angie Brown at 613-223-3979. Kemptville Cruise Night, Hwy 43 Car Club, May 2 to Sept. 26 at Food Basics – 6 - 9 pm. Rod Rafter, 613-258-7567 or www.Hwy43CarClub.com for more information. Kemptville Legion Breakfast the third Saturday of the month. Adults $5.00, Children under 12 $3.00. All welcome Cancer Support Group, 3 rd Monday of every month, ,St. John's United Church at 2 pm. W elcome to anyone requiring support and encouragement. Kemptville and Area W alking Group, Municipal Centre - Early birds: 8 am, others 8:30 am. Contact: Eva 258-4487.
MyView Film Festival Community Screenings THIS WEEK!
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Local youth share their views through film. The Kemptville screening will be taking place on Thursday May 15th from 6:30-8:00pm at the North Grenville Public Library. Remember that there will be door prizes at each screening and that these screenings are your opportunity to come out and meet the Filmmakers and vote for your favourite film!
For Advertising rates please contact Gord at gord@ngtimes.ca or call 613 258 6402 www.ngtimes.ca
The North Grenville Times
Thank you Kemptville
Carter Foods Operations Consultant Mitch Gaulin, Kemptville Manager Michelle Warren, Mayor David Gordon, Steve Clark M.P.P., Lorraine Carter Owner of Carter Foods Ld., Tim Carter Owner of Carter Foods Ltd. give their own SMILE for a great cause.
McDonald's raises more than $21,976 on McHappy Day
The Voice of North Grenville
Annual spring rite of passage
Annual spring canoe ride from Oxford Mills to Kemptville: Year after year they come, and they’ve been back for over 20 years.Why do they do it? They said it's their annual rite of spring passage! To see the full video please go to the North Grenville Times Facebook page. And don’t forget to like us on Facebook!
Wednesday, May 7 was McHappy Day and it was truly a McHappy Day for the Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital, Carleton Place District Hospital and the Ottawa Ronald McDonald House. Thanks to the participation from the communities of Perth, Smiths Falls, Kemptville and Carleton Place, more than $21,976.00 was raised by McDonald's. All funds raised will go to the Perth & Smiths Falls District Hospital, the Carleton Place District Hospital and the Ottawa Ronald McDonald House located next to CHEO. Funds were raised from a portion of Big Mac, Happy Meals, and McCafe Beverages and hot drink sales on McHappy Day, as well as a number of recent community-based fundraising events. McHappy Day is a national fundraising initiative of McDonald’s Restaurants of Canada Limited and its network of national franchisees. May 7 was the 21st McHappy Day in
Spring is finally here!
Bette Patterson was enjoying the warmth of a spring day, and reading the North Grenville Times, when we passed by and had to take this picture of a contented reader!
Canada since 1977.
Kemptville Campus accepting applications The University of Guelph, Kemptville Campus is maintaining a number of trades and special skills programs at the Kemptville Campus for the 2014/2015 academic year. As announced on April 22, the Kemptville Campus received $2 million in one-time funding from the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU) to support the full cost of 10 additional trades programs being offered at the campus in 2014/2015. “We are pleased that apprenticeship and trades programming can continue at the campus while a longer-term strategy is developed by the province,” said Patricia Remillard, associate director for business development and skills training at Kemptville Campus. The following programs are being offered at the Kemptville Campus during the 2014/2015 academic year and are accepting applications. The announced $2 million provided by MTCU will support the programs indicated by an asterisk * below. Summer 2014 Intake • Certificate - Gas Technician* Fall 2014 Intake • Certificate - Industrial Welding & Fabrication • Horticulture Apprenticeship Level I* • Dairy Herdsperson Apprenticeship* • Diesel Equipment Technician (Truck and Coach) Apprenticeship Level I* • Agricultural Equipment and Heavy Equipment Technician Level II* Winter 2015 Intake • Horticulture Apprenticeship Level II* • Agricultural Equipment and Heavy Equipment Technician Level III* • Welding Apprenticeship Level I* • Welding Apprenticeship Level III* Students applying to these programs are encouraged to do so as soon as possible, and no later than June 30, 2014. No new students will be admitted into associate diploma or degree programs at the Kemptville Campus, however the campus will continue to deliver second year programming to students currently enrolled in associate diplomas and degrees. For more information on the Certificate in Industrial Welding & Fabrication, please contact: Heather Buck, Registrar 613-258-8336, Ext. 61335, hebuck@uoguelph.ca For more information all other programs, please contact Shelly Byrne, Administrator, Apprenticeship Programs, 613-258-8336, Ext. 61345, shbyrne@uoguelph.ca May 14, 2014 15
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The Voice of North Grenville
Serious medical issues facing NG residents As we move into a provincial election, there are many issues facing the electors of North Grenville that need to be addressed by all candidates for office before June. It is one of the few times when politicians, and aspiring politicians, have to face questions from the public and give answers. Of course, the answers may be valid only for the lifetime of the election campaign, but it is good to get them on the record anyway. One of the major issues is medical care in North Grenville, and the effects both of budget cuts by the last Liberal governments, and the way in which the system is being abused
May 14, 2014
by medical and commercial concerns providing services and equipment to the province. North Grenville is in a particularly good situation with regards to medical care and services. We may have long waiting times in emergency departments in Ontario, but that is true of just about every country in the western world and beyond. But we have a local hospital on our doorstep, one that is modern, wellequipped and staffed, with a reputation for providing a high standard of personal and medical care. We have a good supply of doctors, unlike so many communi-
ties in the province, and we are well supplied with dentists and other forms of medical services. But there are some very serious gaps in the system, and some very questionable practices creeping in, as some medical procedures or ailments gain an almost trendy status. On the most serious side of this issue, some residents of North Grenville have come face to face with the practical realities brought about by cuts to provincial government budgets over the past few years. Help that existed in the past is no longer available, and it is usually only when a crisis is faced that this fact
becomes clear. One example of this comes from a resident who, for obvious reasons of medical privacy, will remain anonymous in this article. After four years of remission, his wife was diagnosed two weeks ago with a very serious form of cancer. You can imagine his horror and surprise when he was informed during his wife's treatment that a drug which is an important part of her treatment, prescribed by her oncologist, will not be covered by provincial insurance. The drug is apparently not available to seniors undergoing cancer treatment, even though it was fully covered when she underwent treatment four years ago. This means that they must meet a cost of around $7,500 to $9,000 from their savings. He is very upset by the obvious unfairness of the situation: “This, in a province which has a government which often states that it rejects two-tier health care. This, in a province which demonstrably values the election of one Liberal candidate as being worth one billion dollars. Lovely set of values! One billion dollars to give the Liberal Party a leg up at Queen's Park. But $7,500 for a woman/taxpayer of this province, a woman facing a deadly and fast-moving cancer - No, sorry - just can't manage it! People are not getting vital life-saving medication, people are losing their homes because of exorbitant electricity costs, people are being treated like disposable peons by an arrogant irresponsible and insensitive government�. Another resident, who will also remain anon-
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ymous, was sent to a specialist by her GP who diagnosed her with sleep apnea. There are so many strange things about her story, that it deserves a column to itself. We hope to bring that to readers in the next few weeks. But her main experience was of being treated on a machine which was dirty, at a clinic which was dirty, by someone who did not seem to understand how the thing worked, and which, it turned out, she probably never needed in the first place. But the cost to the provincial healthcare system was about $1,000, and also involved a number of tests (more expense) and appointments. The specialist had sent the prescription for the treatment directly to the clinic, not to the patient, so there was no choice about which clinic would be used. There appear to be business links between the clinic and the supplier of the machinery, and what seemed like
a very close connection between the specialist and the clinic. Given that our neighbour did not actually suffer from sleep apnea, it seems strange that the specialist would prescribe treatment for that ailment, costing the Ontario Government thousands of dollars, dollars that could have been spent on providing necessary drugs to seriously ill seniors. These are just two stories from North Grenville recently. How much, one wonders, is being wasted in taxpayer money in a system that cannot support people when they really need it? Literally billions of dollars have been wasted on power plants in order to save seats for politicians. The Conservatives are talking about cutting tens of thousands of jobs in the public service if elected. Will any of those savings go to healthcare? At the moment, we can only ask questions and hope for intelligent answers.
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