Issue 27 2023 July 13 NG Times

Local real estate agent publishes dystopian fiction novel

first novel that John is mass marketing to the world, it is certainly not his first crack at fiction writing. He wrote a full length novel called “The Sacred Grove” many years ago. “I sent it off to a New York publisher and it made it past the first gate but no further than that,” John explained. “Life, our own young family and work kept us busy for years after, but when the dust had settled a bit, I got back to writing.” He also had a book called “Morgan” published on Amazon. ca a few years ago, but he never took the time to properly promote it.

Grenville has been a rich and vibrant place to do just that,” John added.

John and his wife are both still working, and they look forward to visits from their three kids and “much-loved” grandkids at their home in Oxford Mills. “We’re pretty sure we’re on track to retire perhaps in our 90’s – we’ll see,” John joked.

by Brandon Mayer

An 18 year veteran of the local Royal Lepage realty team has set his sights on growing an old passion with much success. Oxford Mills resident, John Carkner, has recently released his first mass-marketed novel – “Selection” – with a local book signing event scheduled on July 22.

John explained to the Times that his new fiction novel is about relationships, loyalty, and love.

“Perseverance also plays a big part,” he added. “It’s set in the near future where the climate crisis is becoming more and more of a reality and the protagonists are faced with this, as well as the agenda of a company which has developed a sophisticated

genetic engineering result.”

John has been an avid reader since he was young.

“I remember taking more than one trip to the library in any given week to load up with more books,” he said.

“Of course, this was a time when kids could walk to the local stores and libraries unaccompanied by adults.”

He was routinely inspired by the “classics” written by authors such as Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, and Frank Herbert, as well as works from Canadian authors like W.O. Mitchell, Margaret Laurence, and Margaret Atwood. A poemwriting assignment in school made him realize that writing was an important means of expression for him.

While “Selection” is the

John explained that an author’s writing process can be a rollercoaster ride and often relies on both inspiration and feedback. “Writing is a very peculiar thing to do,” he said. “When the words are flowing, when the characters take over, when the story unfolds almost on its own, writing is magic! At other times, it’s a slog. At the end of the day, writers write because they have to. There is a void when this creativity slows or stops.”

Through John’s experiences in the local community,his real estate career and involvement with groups and activities such as the Kemptville Lions Club, the local chapter of Ducks Unlimited, and sheep farming, he learned a lot about people and their interactions with each other. “Above all, writers observe, and North

Fans of suspenseful fiction can buy “Selection” at Chapters/Indigo in Barrhaven and Kanata, or by ordering online. A few indie bookstores in Ottawa have copies as well. A Spaniels Tale in Hintonburg and Singing Pebbles books on Main Street in Ottawa both have copies. The book is also available online from Barnes and Noble, Amazon.ca, and Austin Macauley Publishers. Readers can find the links to these sites on John’s website, johncarkner.ca.

A book signing will take place in Kanata on July 19, with a local “meet and greet” and book signing taking place on July 22 in Kemptville. The July 22 event will take place at 139 Prescott St (Royal Lepage building) from noon until 3pm.

John is nothing short of ambitious, and he has his sights set high: “Wouldn’t it be awesome if a senior guy taking his first real stab at the publishing world could make it to the New York Times best seller list? Now there would be a story!”

HIGH TECH EYE WEAR

submitted by Kristy Carriere

B&H owners Jim and Judy Beveridge do so much for the community, in particular, for Kemptville District Hospital and Foundation.

The KDH Foundation was pleased to recognize B&H, as part of its Community Hero Program, for all that they do in our community. It was the perfect opportunity to show our appreciation, while they also celebrated 60 years serving the community of North Grenville.

MPP Steve Clark, a long-time supporter of KDH, once again showed his support and joined us in recognizing Jim, Judy, and B&H staff for their outstanding support.

Thank you, B&H, for being a Community Hero!

Raise a future guide dog in your home

submitted by

CGDB

Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind is seeking puppy raisers for future guide dogs. Over the next year, our upcoming litters of pups will need homes.

Volunteers are needed to take a young puppy into their home, raise and love them like their own, and teach them obedience and socialization skills that will mark the good behaviour required of a guide dog. The commitment is 12-18 months, and you don’t have to be at home all day. Many people working, even full-time, and post-secondary students can participate.

All food, toys, supplies, and veterinary expenses are provided. You’ll also receive expert guidance and training sessions from staff at Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind.

The only thing you’ll need to provide is a loving home, plus a good amount of energy. We expect a couple of long daily walks, and as the puppy gets older, we encourage you to take it everywhere you go, to learn the environments it will later need to go to as a working guide dog. We provide you with a ‘guide dog in training’ jacket for your puppy to wear in public.

The most difficult part is giving up the puppy when it’s time to enter formal guide dog training, so you need to enter the volunteer program with the mindset of doing something good for the community and raising a dog for someone who is blind, so they will have freedom and independence.

Volunteers are needed in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario, including areas near Prescott, Brockville, Gananoque, and Kingston.

You can sign up for one of the upcoming monthly information sessions at https://www. guidedogs.ca/puppy-walking/.

About Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind

Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind was established as a registered charity in 1984. Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind has provided more than 935 professionally trained guide dogs to Canadians who are visually impaired from coast to coast.

To learn more about this event or Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind, visit www.guidedogs.ca or phone (613) 692-7777.

I am the sun

by Brandon Mayer

Canada Day has now come and gone – nearly two weeks ago, in fact. There is a topic of debate that comes up every Canada Day, and it is sufficiently polarizing that I felt that the two week “cool down” was necessary prior to adding my thoughts to the discussion. I am not talking about the debate on whether or not to have Canada Day in light of the residential school controversy. Instead, this debate is much simpler and much older – should we have fireworks on Canada Day?

Fireworks are brilliant. They are spectacular. Somehow, they are both predictable and unpredictable. They come in familiar types – the ones that are colourful and go off in groups, the white ones that sparkle and “scream”, and the single ones that make a huge boom. Despite seeing these same classic fireworks year after year, they never get old. Perhaps the surprise of seeing what order they appear in makes it worth seeing the show again next year, or perhaps there really are some things in life that can be enjoyed year after

year, decade after decade, in the name of “tradition”.

Where I grew up, there were two locations where fireworks might be held every year. One was in the fairgrounds in front of our house, and the other was in the field behind our house.

I can remember the excitement every year – school having just been let out and summer vacation having just begun – of picking a blanket and setting it on the lawn to sit and watch the fireworks. I don’t think I have ever let a Canada Day pass without seeing fireworks in person. During the pandemic, a neighbour of my parents put on spectacular shows two years in a row, so we didn’t even miss out due to COVID.

This year was shaping up to, potentially, be the first year of not seeing fireworks. I didn’t think anything of it. The kids were tired, and we had a pool party to attend the next day. We had all enjoyed a relaxing day, and, with the kids quickly approaching their teenage years, I figured I would be met with eye rolls if we announced we were piling in the car for a “family outing”. When I went to say goodnight to our oldest, he

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor, Two issues ago, the “Common Sense Health” column offered up what I would refer to as an anticat article.

I was disappointed with the article “The Health Consequences of Cats”. It should have been more aptly titled “The Health Consequences of Cats Being Placed Outdoors”.

The hunting (not “killer”) instinct in a cat is a strong genetic one. And certainly cats allowed to roam at will have and continue to take a serious and notable toll on our wildlife including already endangered songbirds. This is a very valid concern. But to suggest that this is the fault of the cat is ridiculous. It is the fault of owners who open their doors in the morning and allow their

looked sad, so I asked what was wrong. “There are fireworks in 30 minutes and my friends are going, but I know we aren’t going, so it’s okay, it’s totally fine.” Oh dear –“totally fine” my backside. He looked as though he was about to cry.

He, of course, perked right up when I said we still had time to get there. His younger brother immediately accepted the offer to come as well. I was surprised – I didn’t think either of them would be interested in anything that took them away from relaxing Saturday evening video games. When we got in the car, I got an apology. “Sorry for making you take us.” My response was honest: “Do you know how HAPPY I am right now? You guys never ask to leave the house and do family things. I can’t wait!” That set the tone, and the show was amazing. It was probably the closest we had ever been to the action.

There were a lot of people at the show we went to. It was popular. Fireworks represent a type of family fun that only comes around once a year, and it’s the kind of fun that feels so great because it takes place in

the name of patriotism and pride. Yet, in the days leading up to Canada Day, and in the days that followed, negative comments rolled in about fireworks.

The argument against having fireworks shows is fairly simple: people suffering from PTSD from military combat may be triggered by the sound, and dogs who are afraid of loud noises may run away. In the spirit of fairness, I can add in two other examples as well: children, and even adults with sensory issues – such as those with autism – may struggle with the noise, and parents of infants and toddlers may have trouble getting their kids to stay asleep during the fireworks if they live nearby.

I absolutely don’t want to be insensitive. These are real potential consequences of fireworks shows, and I sympathize with those who have to deal with these unintended consequences. However, my answer to these complaints is direct: does it have to be about you? I’m sure that many of the older folks reading this would agree that decades ago, people learned to adapt to their surroundings instead

of asking everyone around them to accommodate them. It’s similar to people whose traumas are “triggered” by certain topics of conversation, or certain images. Your triggers are your own, and it is not anyone else’s responsibilty to tiptoe around you.

Someone who is traumatized by the sound of fireworks, or has sensory issues, or has young children, clearly knows that fireworks are imminent on July 1 –why not buy earplugs and a noise machine, or ask to stay with a friend or relative who lives far away from any fireworks show? Someone with dogs who attempt to run away during fireworks can simply refrain from opening the door. That last statement is so obvious that it almost seems sarcastic, but it’s not.

I grew up with a handsome golden retriever – Le-

roy – who was terrified of fireworks. Never once did we say, “I am the sun and all things revolve around me – you shall NOT have fireworks so long as it will bother my precious Leroy!”

Leroy’s fear was his own problem, and as his family, it was our job to comfort him through it all while enjoying the show.

It may sound old fashioned and grumpy, but I stand by my opinion. Let families enjoy the decadesold tradition of fireworks, and stop expecting the world to accommodate your every individual need. It is not the world’s job to coddle you – it is your job to adapt, grow, and take responsibility for you.

pets to roam. They end up infected with bacteria from the rodents and roadkill they investigate, they suffer cruelty from humans, poisonings, attacks from other animals, impacts with cars, and much more.

I would add this. Cats are not wild animals. They cannot grow a winter coat and suffer terribly in winter cold. Frostbite hurts! They are unable to handle high temperatures and humidity in our summers. If you see a cat “panting”, it is not cooling off as a dog would. It is unable to. The cat is in distress. Heat stroke kills. Just another fate they suffer by being put outside.

I would question the reliability of the source of the author’s information that “nearly half of pet cats have attacked their owners”. I seriously doubt that.

I clean a litter-box daily and use simple common sense and hygiene to allay any risk. I do not consider it a death-defying task!

The “health risks” noted in the article were 100% the result of people putting their cats out to wander all day. The bacteria, the fleas, the worms, all are the sufferings of a wandering cat.

The solution is a simple one, and one encouraged by all animal rights groups, animal rescue groups, advocates, veterinarians, and shelters. It is this: “Cats are NOT part of the natural world; they are domesticated animals who belong in the home in which they live.”

Outside time is on a safe lead in the company of the owner. Too bad the author missed the opportunity to educate.

I tire of people lifting their nose in the air claim-

ing to “be a dog person” like it makes them somehow superior. How about just being an animal person? I love them all and I work to educate humans and rescue any creature in need. I don’t hold with racism, bigotry or, in this case, speciesism — racism against a particular species.

I mean no personal offence to the author, but feel that the article irresponsibly expressed a strong personal bias and completely missed the opportunity to educate owners of the risks of putting a cat outside — the risks to the cat! Perhaps yet more cats will meet the miserable fate of many — being dumped on a country road, or otherwise abandoned, or dumped in a shelter in favour of the “superior” dog. Don’t get me wrong. Dogs are the Bhuddists’ perfect expres-

sion of joy in the present moment. They are amazing.

However, to address the topic of the article, the reward of having an indoorsonly cat, besides having a healthy happy cat, is to actually KNOW a cat, not just pass them by as they exit the house. And truly knowing a cat is a very rewarding experience. They are intelligent, loving, funny, fascinating beings who are deserving of the very best care.

Janice Atkey

Kemptville Campus AGM update

submitted by Marta Zwart

On June 21st, Kemptville Campus Education and Community Centre held its Annual General Meeting, marking its first year with an arms-length Board and new staff. The Campus is truly grateful for the work the Board did this year, especially to outgoing Chair Dermid O'Farrell and Treasurer Graham Pincott, and Katherine Parker, our resident human resources expert. A very warm welcome goes to incoming Board members Ross Lincoln and Paul Calder who will be working alongside Brian McKee (Chair), Annie Hillis (Vice-chair), Ed Patchell (Treasurer), Johanne Beaulieu (Secretary), Dana Farcasiu, and Tim Rennie.

Thanks to the work of the Board, staff and volunteers, Kemptville Campus has grown into a multi-use

facility guided by three pillars: education and training, health and wellness, and economic development with an underlying theme of climate change resiliency. These pillars have led to many projects, events, and organizations that are making the campus more and more lively every day!

With such a rich agricultural background, Campus was pleased to be a part of the Kemptville Campus Community Garden project this year. Completely run by volunteers, the garden became more than just a plot of land and a great educational tool for kids and adults alike. This is only the beginning of many exciting projects happening on campus, including an RFP for greenhouse tenants, plans for a commercial kitchen, and exploring the possibility of having a musical instrument lending library.

Community organizations including sports groups such as Kemptville Minor Football (the Jags) and Mission Volleyball, and artists such as The Dreaming Heart Art and Painted Key Therapy are bringing a lot of fun, creative energy to campus. Of course, it’s impossible to mention ‘fun’ and ‘energy’ in a sentence without remembering that Kemptville Live Music Festival is right around the corner!

By continuing to provide spaces for nonprofits, local organizations, and individuals to host events, workshops, and programs, Campus hopes to continue building a diverse and welcoming place for the community to come together.

Check out the Kemptville Campus website for more information: www. kemptvillecampus.ca.

Kemptville Pool offering free swims until July 16

submitted by Jill Sturdy, Municipality of NG

The Municipality of North Grenville is pleased to remind residents that the Kemptville Pool opened to the public on July 10. All public, family and adult and lane swims are being offered for free until July 16.

“We know how much our local residents value the Kemptville Pool during the hot summer months. Council would like to thank residents for their patience during this brief delay,” emphasized Mayor Nancy Peckford.

“To mark the opening of this year’s pool season which looks a bit different, we are pleased to offer all public, family and adult swims for free between Monday July 10 and Sunday July 16, 2023,” Mayor Peckford added.

“The forecast remains quite hot, so get out and enjoy the pool!”

Please keep in mind that temporary measures have been implemented to support pool operation and programming while the construction on the expanded pool house is being completed.

In the Spring of 2023, the Municipality of North Grenville entered into a partnership with the YMCA of Eastern Ontario to manage pool programming.

Public swim, family swim, and adult/lane swim, as well as the Kemptville Bluefins Swim Team, Aquafit, Parent and Tot have begun.

The swim schedule and costs can be found on the website at: https://www.northgrenville. ca/community-and-culture/recreation/public-swimming

Between Monday, July 11 and Sunday, July 16, 2023, the Municipality of North Grenville will offer free swimming on all public, family and adult and lane swims.

The regular fees per swim are $3 for adults, $2 for seniors (55 plus) and youth (16 years and under), and $1 for children 3 years old and under.

Background on Riverside Park Recreation Expansion Project:

In 2021, Council approved a significant investment for Riverside Park, with construction beginning in September 2022. Recreation amenities identified were based on public engagement in the 2020 Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan.

New Recreational Amenities as part of the Riverside Park Recreation Expansion Project include:

1) a new building facility that will support accessible washrooms and provide yearround outdoor access to other users of the Park,

2) a splash pad with a variety of spray elements including a mega bucket soaker which we expect will open later this summer, and

3) a 50 by 100 feet outdoor rink with a concrete base. Elements will include ice refrigeration, provisions for a roof structure, and the facility will be designed to support summer sports such as basketball, ball hockey, and special events.

Details on the Construction and Riverside Park Recreation Expansion Project can be found here: www.northgrenville.ca/projects.

Questions related to the Riverside Park Recreation Expansion Project can be directed to parksrec@northgrenville.on.ca.

MUNICIPAL OFFICE HOURS

The Municipal office is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Visit our events calendar to find out what’s happening in the community: www.northgrenville.ca/events

Sign-up to receive Mayor Peckford’s e-newsletter at: northgrenville.ca/connect.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

COUNCIL MEETINGS

Please see the Council agenda for further details on how to participate in Council meetings. All Council meetings will be live streamed on YouTube at: youtube.com/user/NorthGrenville/ featured and on the Municipality’s website at: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings.

To make a deputation in relation to an item on the agenda, please provide your comments no later than two hours prior to the start of the meeting to clerk@northgrenville.on.ca Council agendas are available at: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings.

• Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. (Open Session) – Burritt’s Rapids Community Hall, Burritt’s Rapids

COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Committees may be meeting in-person or virtually. Please see the Committee agenda for details on how to attend. Agendas can be found on the Municipal website at www.northgrenville.ca/meetings

• Indigenous Advisory Circle – Thursday, July 20, 2023 at 4:30 p.m.

• Environmental Action Advisory Committee – Monday, July 24, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.

VOLUNTEER AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Advisory Committees

The Municipality continues to accept applications for members to various advisory committees. Join the conversation regarding the community!

Visit northgrenville.ca/committees for more information on how to apply. For questions, please contact the Clerk by email at clerk@northgrenville.on.ca or by telephone at 613258-9569 ext 171

NORTH GRENVILLE IN BLOOM

North Grenville is participating in Communities in Bloom, which is a non-profit organization that aims to improve the aesthetic appeal of communities across Ontario. North Grenville is looking for residents and businesses to participate by sharing photos and details of their blooms. We will be putting together a profile book and tour of the community for the judges visiting the second week of August.

If you’re interested in taking part in the initiative, including contributing to the profile book, tour, or submitting your beautiful photos of local gardens and landscapes, visit the North Grenville in Bloom project page on northgrenville.ca/projects. For more information, contact vision@northgrenville.on.ca.

Building: 613-258-9569 x130 Fax: 613-258-1441

Fire Services Info: 613-258-9569 x201

Fax: 613-258-1031

By-Law Services: email: bylawinquiries@northgrenville.on.ca

613-258-9569 x211

Police Administration: 613-258-3441

Animal Control: 613-862-9002

Eric Gutknecht Memorial Bursary recipients announced

for chaotic times and likely had an impact on mental health. Ceremonial speeches touched on compassion, acceptance and kindness, three major attributes that everyone in attendance should be able to relate to and work on to make this world a better place to live.

munity. Every donation made and the proceeds of every jam/jelly purchased at the Farmers Market go back to the students within North Grenville. Congratulations to the class of 2023. May your feet always take you where your heart wants to go!

submitted by Executive of the EGMB

On Tuesday, June 27th at 1:00 at St. Michael Catholic High School, 110 graduating students crossed the stage in front of family, faculty, dignitaries and friends to receive their secondary school diplomas and other certificates and awards. The Eric Gutknecht Memorial Bursary (EGMB) awarded $1,000 and a plaque to Adelina Smith who exceeded all the requirements for what the EGMB stands for, including continuing post-sec-

ondary education, working through adversity, demonstrating perseverance and involvement in school and community activities. Adelina has been accepted into Carleton University’s Honours Bachelor of Arts degree program with a major in Psychology. Attention was shifted across town to North Grenville District High School on Wednesday, June 28th at 10:00 where 153 graduating students took to the stage to receive the fruit of their high school labour. The EGMB was awarded

to two students who each received a plaque and a $1,000 cheque to help fulfil their post secondary educational plans. Seth Jones will be attending Carleton University next year for a Bachelor of Science in Biology while his fellow student Bridget Elizabeth Bruce has been accepted into the Sociology Program at Western University with a major in Criminology. Two of her favourite courses at North Grenville included Philosophy and Photography.

All students of both

schools have navigated through some unprecedented times in years 9 and 10 and deserve tremendous applause. No doubt, the impact of COVID made

To all students who have worked so hard to get to this point in your young lives, we offer you the following: you have reached a great milestone in your life, so hold on to the moment.... but not too long as a new chapter awaits you when a new sun shines. The Eric Gutknecht Memorial Charity was established shortly after Eric’s passing on June 25, 2010 and has now awarded $40,000 back to students here in the com-

Golden-spangled Lawns (II)

ada in the 19th Century on Prince Edward Island, then to have spread to the other Atlantic provinces, then into Quebec and later Ontario. Its patchy distribution is probably due to the prickly seeds hitching rides in the fur of mammals (and human clothing and artifacts), rather than spreading on wind-borne fluff, as Dandelions do.

by Fred Schueler, Fragile Inheritance Natural History

Back in 2020, I wrote up the way low-growing varieties of Lotus corniculatus, Bird's-foot Trefoil, were spreading yellow patches of bloom onto many midsummer local lawns (North Grenville Times, 5 August 2020).

Dandelions of course do this in the early spring, and this June a Dandelion-like flower is providing either a scattering of bloom or dense patches on many local lawns. I’ve seen this species for many years, especially on July trips to Almonte, but have only started to attend to it now as it’s becoming more widespread in North

Grenville. This is Pilosella officinarum, Mouse-ear Hawkweed, which is native to Europe and northern Asia. The blooms are dandelion-like, but a bright lemon-yellow colour and the flower rays are toothed at their ends. The small leaves are untoothed and hairy.

I’d previously noticed it in 1996 near Almonte, where there were fields in “retinaaltering lemon-meringueyellow bloom.” Unlike the single plants of Dandelions, Mouse-ear has spreading stems which grow out into circular patches, and with its low flat leaves, is credited with being able to exclude most other plants.

The species seems to have first shown up in Can-

Slow down for safety

A message from the North Grenville Police Services Board submitted by Jill Sturdy, Municipality of NG

The North Grenville Police Services Board is reminding drivers to slow down and follow the speed limits. Speeding is the number 1 cause of death on the roads.

“Speed is among the top concerns expressed by residents in recent years,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford. “Reducing speeds is one way we can improve road safety, along with other tools.”

The Municipality implemented a community-wide 40 km/h speed limit in the urban core of Kemptville and in rural

subdivisions. Municipal roads through the rural hamlets have also implemented a 40km/hr limit.

“For the safety of all road users, drivers are reminded to follow the posted speed limits,” said Deputy Mayor John Barclay and Chair of the North Grenville Police Services Board. “This will keep our roads safe and avoid unnecessary fines and penalties.”

Excessive speed may lead to demerit points and significant fines. Stunt driving (driving in excess of 50 km/hr or more over the speed limit) will result in a 30-day licence suspension.

If residents wish to report a car that is speed-

Ron's Small Engine Repair

613.258.9720

ronssmallengines@outlook.com

1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville

This spring, we’ve seen lots of Mouse-ears along Stagecoach Road south of Ottawa, and along the New Dublin Road north of Brockville, but there have been long trips where we haven’t noticed any. Locally, there’s quite a lot along County Road 18 south of Oxford Mills. Joyce Cook, SW of Bishops Mills, has dense patches on her lawn which she noticed this year for the first time, and Matt Keevil outside Oxford Mills has “some and it seems to be on the increase.” There are a few plants on the lawn of the Pentecostal Church adjacent to our lawn in Bishops Mills, and a small patch by the driveway culvert of the daughter’s place on Cranberry Crescent in Kemptville, so it will be interesting to see how these spread in future years.

Mouse-ears are “highly variable and... a member of

ing, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or submit a detailed traffic report online at www. opp.ca (Click on “Report Online”). For all emergencies call 9-1-1.

For ongoing traffic concerns, residents are encouraged to fill out a Traffic Concern Form on the municipal website (click on the Service Request icon at www. northgrenville.ca). Forms are directed to Public Works staff to determine the course of action. The complaint may also be forwarded to the North Grenville Police Services Board.

Led by the North Grenville Police Services Board, the Road Safety

a species complex of several dozens of subspecies and hundreds of varieties and forms” (Wikipedia), so there’s lots of variation from which ground-hugging forms could be selected. After I wrote about the low forms of Birds-foot Trefoil in 2020, the Field Botanists facebook page pointed out that in addition to the well-known White Clover (Trifolium repens), other species have adapted to bloom with short stems on mowed lawns, including Heal-all (Prunella vulgaris) and Black Medick (Medicago lupulina).

Because lawns cover so much of the landscape, there is intense natural selection for species to develop low forms to grow and flower there, especially since the 2009 Ontario ban on recreational herbicides. In years to come, we can expect more species to make this adaptation, making lawns more visually interesting, and providing resources for pollinating insects. The yellow blooms on the lawn of South Nation Conservation in Finch, for example, are Buttercups (Ranaculus) poking their blooms a few centimetres above prostrate plants.

How we wish there were better ways to treat pain. But scientists are struggling to find them. The very nature of pain remains elusive too. Determining if pain is mild, moderate, or severe is a personal perception. Doctors and nurses ask patients to rate their pain from zero to ten. Whether the patient says 2 or 15, there’s more judgement than science in decisions about pain management. But one thing is certain, people managing pain at home are taking too many pills.

Pain, at best, is an annoyance. At worst, it is all consuming. It’s been said that pain can collapse the universe and concentrate the soul until only the hurt is left. Elaine Scarry, a Harvard professor and author of “The Body in Pain”, wrote that pain and “injuring” are even tools of war.

In clinical settings, even when managed well, there are negative side effects with pain treatment. Acute pain can be reduced, for example, by opioids. But medical professionals need to be cautious with these drugs, because in addition to killing the pain, side effects can include euphoria and hallucinations, plus they are highly addictive.

Some researchers have been trying to develop drugs that ease pain without these side effects by attempting to turn on and turn off cellular and molecular receptors. There is promise, but as yet no success.

Other problematic ways to beat pain include alcohol misuse, smoking, nutritionally devoid comfort foods, and default to a sedentary lifestyle. These are not good strategies. For people suffering from chronic pain, the key is to get professional help. A good doctor or pain management specialist will treat the pain and offer a plan to get off any drugs used in treatment. Run for help elsewhere if there is no such plan.

Numbing minor aches and pain with over-the counter pain medications has become a national pastime.

public awareness campaign aims to promote safe driving behaviours and make roads in North Grenville safer for all users. For more information on Road Safety in North Grenville, visit: www.northgrenville.ca/ roadsafety.

It’s foolish to hope that people will change their ways. Einstein said the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. But we can only repeat the message that too many painkillers are worse than suffering a little pain. Paulo Coelho, the Brazilian novelist, said, “People never learn anything by being told, they have to find out for themselves.”

Sadly, some people find out the hard way, by paying the ultimate price. A report in the Canadian Medical Association Journal reports that a billion doses of acetaminophen are taken safely each year, but ten thousand people in Canada overdose on this over-the-counter medication annually. Of these, about 4,500 people are hospitalized and estimates suggest about one hundred people die.

How and why is this happening? Acetaminophen does not mix well with alcohol, yet people don’t read the warnings. In fact, the main cause of liver failure is an overdose of acetaminophen mixed with alcohol.

Tylenol is not the only pain reliever containing acetaminophen. People may consume more of the drug than they realize when they take multiple medications. Always read labels to make sure you’re not doubling or tripling the dose. When in doubt, talk with a doctor or pharmacist.

It’s not popular advice, but suffering a little bit is the right prescription for millions of people. Save the money spent on pain relievers and go home to get some rest instead. This goes for children too. It’s heart-wrenching to have a child experiencing even a little bit of pain. But in return for the hesitation to rush to medication, that child will gain a lifetime of fortitude and common sense to turn away from drugs when other options will ease the pain.

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Pilosella officinarum, Mouse-ear Hawkweed. photos by Aleta Karstad, 3 June 2023, along County Road 18, 2 km SW of Oxford Mills.

Not every pain needs a pill

“Turbo” McGowan representing Canada in Youth Commonwealth Games

been training as much as three times each week at the Club’s Mooney’s Bay facility during the spring and summer. In the winter, the 16-year-old trains twice each week inside in Blackburn Hamlet.

found out, but I’m stoked,” he added. “This is an opportunity of a lifetime for me -- to compete on the international stage and I can’t wait to wear the maple leaf and make Canada proud.”

Youth Games can be a valuable springboard for the stars and leaders of tomorrow, contributing to the further development of youth sport throughout Canada and the Commonwealth

submitted by Jeff

Brownlee

John McGowan can’t believe that darting away from a science test 12 months ago has led to running for his country as a member of Team Canada, competing at the Commonwealth Youth Games in Trinidad and Tobago this August.

“It was a total fluke,” said the Grade 11, St. Mike’s student, who will compete in the 100-metre sprint event at the game to be held August 4-11th in the West Indies nation. “Running had never crossed my mind, but I didn’t want to write that test last year, so at the last minute,

I decided to compete at the track meet instead.”

The result? While he eventually wrote the test, he aced the 100-metre event earning a berth in the regional LGSSAA competition where he improved his time to qualify for the Eastern Ontario (EOSSAA) sectionals.

“I was in shock,” added the Kemptville resident. “I had no idea that I could run at a competitive level -- and enjoy it.”

His initial success and innate talent led him to the Ottawa Lions Track and Field Club where he has

This rigorous schedule has enabled McGowan to shave .80 seconds off his personal best in just 12 months, which has earned the teen the nickname “Turbo.” Entering 2023, the speedster’s best time was 11.55 seconds over 100 metres. This year, he qualified for Team Canada by posting a quick 10.75 at the Eastern Regionals in Ottawa and earned a berth at the provincials OFSAA where he finished 5th.

“We’re so proud of John. What he has accomplished in a short period of time is pretty amazing,” said his mother, Natalie Carriere. “His dedication and hard work are paying off -- it’s an absolute honour to wear the maple leaf and represent your country.”

McGowan said he was surprised to learn that he was one of just 17 athletes in Canada named to the Youth Commonwealth Team.

“I was in shock when I

Team Head Coach Christine Laverty believes that the event is both a learning experience and an immense opportunity for the athletes. “The competition itself is something of a learning experience, but a definite opportunity for our athletes to be successful and to medal,” she said.

Laverty expects the 17-member contingent to quickly come together as one team.

“The bonding starts right from the day they get on the plane and head off in their Team Canada gear. They tend to come out and cheer for their teammates,” she added. “What's always nice is that the first time you hear that Canadian anthem, it kind of motivates everybody else to want to do that too.”

More than 1,000 athletes and para-athletes between the ages of 14 and 18 will participate in seven sports managed by 500-plus officials. The Commonwealth

Street Piano Jam with Bradley Smith, July 15

submitted by Lisa Poushinsky

Know how to play an instrument and looking for a place to play it? When the library is a rockin’, don’t bother knocking. Join host Bradley Smith at the Street Piano for the 2023 Street

Piano Jam series. Whether you’re a new performer or a pro looking for a place to make music on a Saturday afternoon, this jam’s for you. Come to listen and/or to play, all levels/ genres/ instruments welcome.

This is the second of

the Street Piano Jam series, with one more jam taking place on August 12. Bradley Smith, host with the most, will entertain you with his favourite tunes between musical get togethers (such as his delightful rendition of “Poisoning Pigeons in the

Park” by Tom Lehrer). No stranger to the stage, Bradley has been playing piano, singing, and running jams and open mics for over 50 years. When not performing solo, Bradley plays Southern Rock, 80’s Rock, and Country music with several bands.

What? The Kemptville Street Piano Concert Series presents

Who? Street Piano Jam with Bradley Smith

When? Saturday July 15 and Saturday August 12

Where? North Grenville Public Library terrace

How much? Free! (Cash donations welcome, or see the featured section on our FB page for the link to our GoFundMe campaign.)

Learn more about Bradley Smith at www.suckerforaballad.com

Photo Credit: John Wilberforce

Smyth, Barbara (Seymour )

October 25, 1940 - July 1, 2023

Passed away suddenly at the Kemptville District Hospital on Monday, June 26, 2023, Phyllis Petersen (nee Durant) of Merrickville, age 79. Beloved wife of the late Ole Petersen. Loving mother of Mike Petersen (Lisa) of Kemptville. Dear motherin-law of Donna Petersen of Ottawa. Dear sister of Betty Jean Mark (Bill) of Winchester, Wesley Durant (Brenda Hutt) of Winchester and Donald Durant (Ellen) of Winchester. Phyllis will be fondly remembered by her grandchildren Shelby, Kyle (Chelsea), Brooke and 4 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her sons James and Douglas Petersen, her parents James and Pauline Durant (nee McIntosh) and her sister Sandra Lee Durant. She is also survived by nieces and nephews. A celebration of Phyllis’s life will be held at a later date.

Donations to the Ottawa Heart Institute would be gratefully acknowledged by the family. If you are making your donation online or by cheque directly to the charity, please include the following note with your gift “please notify the family”. Online condolences may be made at marsdenmclaughlin.com

Baldwin's Birds

Barbara Smyth passed away peacefully with family by her side at Southbridge Kemptville on July 1, 2023, at the age of 82 years. Beloved wife of John (Jack), married 61 years on June 30, 2023. Loving and proud mother of Michael (Marla) Toronto, Kieren (Claudia) Cramahe, Annaliese (Paul) New Brunswick, Jacqueline (Tim) Caledon. Wonderful Nannie to David, Emma, Brent, Greta, Evan, Lauren, Abby, Ailish, Sadie, and Hannah. Great Nannie to Cleo and Freya. Dear daughter of the late Hugh and Agnes Seymour. Dear sister of Betty, Anna, Samuel, Hubert, Raymond, Tommy, David and her twin Bobby, and sister-in-law to Mavis and Dennis. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Born and raised in Larne, Northern Ireland; Barbara met Jack at a dance in Larne, where they began their lifelong love of jive dancing and one another. They were married at Carincastle NI and immigrated to Canada in 1968. Settling originally in Osgoode, they later built a house on French Settlement Road, Kemptville. Barbara worked at the Scotiabank in Kemptville. Barbara will be remembered for her love of her family, her sense of humour and flashing smile, her knitting talents and her love of fashion. There will be a private celebration of life with a tree planted in her memory at a family farm. A special thank you to all the PSW’s and nurses for the wonderful care given to Barbara. Donations to Alzheimer’s Society, or Kemptville Hospital gratefully accepted.

Condolences/Tributes/Donations

Hulse, Playfair & McGarry www.hpmcgarry.ca

613-258-2435

Ma ineau, Winston Robe

February 9, 1942-June 30, 2023

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Winston (Hab) peacefully at home on June 30, 2023. Survived by his wife Vivian, son Robert (Brenda), grandchildren Megan (Justin), Chelsea (Kyle), greatgrandchildren Chase, Cooper, Collin, Cash Heron; Walter, Winston Petersen; many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Delia & Leo Martineau, his in-laws Willis Chambers, Muriel Cooper (Ralph) and by his brothers Herbie (Louella), Lawrence (Noreen), Allie (Nora), Donald, Raymond and by his sisters Dora Beaman (Bill), Annette Martineau, Mary Workman (Lloyd), Beatrice Anderson (Jack), Eileen Patrick (Bernard), Jaqueline Martineau and Jean Arcand (Ray). Following Winston’s wishes Cremation has taken place. Interment South Gower Cemetery 501 South Gower Drive, Kemptville, Ont. on Saturday July 15, 2023 at 11:45 a.m. with a Celebration of Life to follow at the Mountain Township Agricultural Hall, 2967 Lough Road, South Mountain from 1 to 3 p.m.

Donations may be made to the Kemptville District Hospital Foundation. Arrangements entrusted to the Byers Funeral Home, South Mountain (613989-3836).Online condolences may be made at www.byersfuneralhomeinc.com

COMMUNITY EVENTS

RECURRING EVENT

PROBUS: Fellowship, Fun and inFormed presenters are part of the PROBUS gathering on the third Wednesday of each month at St Paul's Presbyterian Church Hall at 9:30AM. For more information contact at n.g.probus97@gmail.com

Whilst much of the nesting activity has ceased in our garden, some feeding of infants is still evident, such as the young Grackle being demanding of Mum in one of my pictures, whilst Dad happily "fills his face", in the feeder above them! Good old Dad,-- nothing changes does it!?

I hope you all have had a great Canada Day holiday weekend,that your birds have kept you occupied as well, and that they have managed to avoid what the Wren did in one of my past articles, have a window strike! My article garnered some response and one of my readers gave me some very good information which I thought that I would pass on to you all.

(a) Regarding window strike prevention, there is a UV Liquid product available

locally (Bank St, Ottawa) that is applied to the window and appears clear to us, but not to the birds.

(b) This concerns injured, or orphaned, birds that you might come across and are not sure where to take them. A good relatively local option, that is open 365 days of the year, is the Ottawa Valley Wild Bird Care Centre, 613-854-2849, 822 Cedarview Rd. Unit C Nepean, ON. K2R 1J1 ( call for directions).

The Bluebirds put in momentary appearances in their old nesting box, but I am not sure if one is an adult bird or just one of the young visiting his old home! They pop in and then soon pop out and don't return until another day even. Their behaviour is very much like our House Wren's which we can hear at the top of the back garden and see occasionally on one of the nesting boxes, but there seems to be no real intent on starting another family and who could blame them in this heat!?

Evening time in our back garden, especially around our water feature, attracts a number of different types

of bird who are seeking a cooler area just before going to roost, or appearing to, in a Mungo Pine and a Domed Cedar bush close by. I have spotted Goldfinches, Chickadees and Nuthatches in that area just before dusk. A Hummingbird has also taken to perching for very long periods of time, very high in a Pine tree near to the ones already mentioned at this time. It is also at this time of day that it will regularly appear at the feeder at the front of the house, so I suspect when it disappears for a while and then returns to the tree that it has just popped away for a pre-roosting stock up drink.

I hope that you too are able to enjoy the birds as they start to drift away from your feeders and disappear for the night and hopefully return the next morning. Stay safe and well.

Cheers, John Baldwin

NG Duplicate Bridge Club, Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptville, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155

EUCHRE on Tuesday, July 25, August 8, 22, September 5 and 19 at Pierce's Corners also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m. and play starts at 7:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ ymail.com.

BID EUCHRE on Tuesday, July 18, August 1, 15, 29, September 12 and 26 at Pierce's Corners also known as the Marlborough Community Centre, 3048 Pierce Road. Registration starts at 6:30 p.m. and play starts at 7:00 p.m. $5 per player. For information contact debiar@ymail.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Kemptville Snowmobile Klub BBQ and entertainment Sunday July 16. Pulled chicken on a bun with salads and dessert $25. Entertainment by the band 'Hillbilly Highway'. Show starts at 2:30 pm and meal served at 5:00pm. Takeouts available. Call Bruce at 613-258-3648 or Penny at 613-285-4069. BYOB and lawn chairs.

"We are open for your convenience during these troubled times"

FOR SALE

Sawmill for Sale

Heavy duty dimensional sawmill (Southern) for sale. Equipped with two 20-inch edger blades and a 32-inch main blade, which produces a finished board with each pass. Ideal for quarter sawing hardwood flooring. Max cutting size is 6” X 12” x 20 ft. This mill is in good operating condition and is equipped with a 4-cylinder, 60 hp diesel engine The mill is located near Merrickville, ON. Phone

613-258-385

1.5 ton York Central A/C unit. 3 years old. Perfect condition. Asking $1500. 613-222-9452

Solid oak desk, five feet wide by two feet deep, very good condition, $225. 613-258-5831

Enclosed small utility trailer, $1500 negotiable. Call 613-282-1836

Green, corduroy couch approx 7 feet wide. Two end sections recline. Clean and in excellent condition. $300.00 613-258-5831

Upright Weber piano, $200.00. 613-258-5831

Free, two industrial electric motors and a free jointer planer. Call Doug 613 258-4573 (Kemptville)

Now booking orders for new crop small square bales of hay. Call or text Jon. 613-227-3650

2016 JAYCO RV, JAY FLIGHT SLX. 21'6". In good condition. Email nadfudt@gmail.com for details and picture

Dollhouse , Foxhall Manor by Real Good Toys, with side extensions. Currently under refurbishment. $1500. tineboyer@gmail.com

Harmonica Phe 64 Chromonica, 4 Octaves, professional model, M Hohner, Germany. Contact 613-567-8533

Cedar posts and rails for sale. Jon 613-227-3650.

email classifieds@ngtimes.ca or leave a message at (613)215-0735

4X4 round bales of hay and straw for sale. Jon 613-227-3650.

Cedars for hedging, 2' tp 10', Tamarac & Spruce. Call Jim after 6pm 613258-3561

Dry firewood for sale $110 a cord plus delivery fee. Call or text Jon 613-2273650

MISCELLANEOUS

HISTORIC HALL AVAILABLE FOR RENTALS in Beautiful Burritts Rapids!

Start a book club in time for cooler weather in a hamlet near walking trails and parkettes. Our hall is well equipped for any gathering or celebration, and we offer very competitive rates. http://burrittsrapids.com

WANTED

Looking to harvest cedar trees for hedges off acreages from landowners. Please call Joanne 613-799-0958

Experienced+local farming family looking to buy

a farm. Min. 10ac tillable with a liveable house. Open to creative solutions. davidrbailie@gmail.com.

Looking to rent farmland for cash crops. Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204.

FOR RENT

2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment. Laundry, appliances included. 1 block proximity to all amenities. Immediate occupancy, $1975/ month. Call Jeff at 613978-4700

Property for rent for spring & fall deer & turkey hunting. Call Jim after 6pm 613-258-3561

GARAGE SALE

July 15th 8 am to 2 pm - 2439 County Road 18, Tools, furniture, household goods, china, antiques. Everything must be sold and what is not sold by 2 pm will be put at the road for free

• 613 295 0300

Notes from above ground

by David Shanahan

If it’s the case, as I believe it is, that there are basically only two possible explanations for the fact that we exist, that anything exists, then it is important to see which of the two explanations matches with what we know to be true. Either everything that is came about through a random process over long periods of time, the result of chance combinations of molecules and atoms, without purpose of meaning, or, alternatively, everything is designed and planned to fit into a universe with purpose and meaning. Both explanations may have differing schools of thought as to precisely how and when life began, but the fundamental alternatives are clear.

These opposite ideas have been frequently portrayed as “Science versus Religion”, but this is misleading. The prevailing view in our time, as disseminated through schools, media, and general conversation, is that religion is based entirely on blind faith without evidence or reason, while science is built upon a clear method of verification and reliable scientific evidence. We are, in that way, prisoners of our days, as this position has not always been the accepted one, and is, in fact, relatively recent and a result of blind faith on the part of society itself.

Modern science began and was based upon a belief in the fact of design and reason in nature. The philosopher, Alfred North Whitehead, not a Christian, stated that people began to study nature, looking for the laws that govern it, because they believed those laws would be found. And the reason they believed that was because they believed in a law giver behind nature. The vital point is that they found those laws, they found the underlying principles that explain what they saw, the mathematical exactness by which everything, from the micro to the macro, from DNA to solar systems, operate. This is why modern science suddenly developed in Europe, not elsewhere,

in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.

Professor John Lennox, Emeritus Professor of Mathematics at the University of Oxford and an Emeritus Fellow in Mathematics and Philosophy of Science at Green Templeton College, Oxford University, puts it like this:

“It is no accident that Galileo, Kepler, Newton and Clerk-Maxwell were believers in God.

Melvin Calvin, Nobel Prize-winner in biochemistry, finds the origin of the conviction, basic to science, that nature is ordered in the basic notion: ‘that the universe is governed by a single God, and is not the product of the whims of many gods, each governing his own province according to his own laws. This monotheistic view seems to be the historical foundation for modern science’."

One of the difficulties attending this question is the misunderstanding that exists about what exactly “science” is, and how it operates. Logical Positivism in the last century gave rise to the idea that science is concerned only with what is accessible to our sense perception, and that there is no scientific reality beyond that. It also assumed that scientists are objective observers who simply report what is, what they have found through their studies. Michael Polanyi, who wrote on physical chemistry, economics, and philosophy, made the point that there is no such thing as a purely objective observer, all come to the job with personal presuppositions, a theory or world view through which he sees and finds. The observer is never neu-

New “scam” coming to a mailbox near you

tral: hence positivism is an illusion.

Philosopher Karl Popper rejected the idea that science is based on the ability to verify and falsify, arguing that verification is not possible, only falsification is. A theory can be held as valid in theory until it can be shown to be false. Neither he, nor Polanyi, would be considered supporters of Christianity, but their writings show that science and scientific theories about reality, or what lies beyond the five senses, are not as universally accepted, nor as rationally in opposition to religious thought than is usually believed.

The issue is not Science or Religion, as any such artificial opposition is neither reasonable nor necessary, but rather, which of the alternative explanations for life and the universe itself is most supported by science and religion. And here is where the ‘evolutionary’ explanation for life hits a major snag or two. If everything arose through arbitrary, random, and purposeless processes, how is science itself possible or its findings reliable? As chemist J.B.S. Haldane pointed out long ago: if the thoughts in my mind are just the motions of atoms in my brain, why should I believe anything it tells me - including the fact that it is made of atoms? Yet many scientists have adopted that naturalistic view, seemingly unaware that it undermines the very rationality upon which their scientific research depends. A good question, but what can Christianity offer as a better explanation? Another good question.

by Brandon Mayer

Some residents of the town of Chesterville in eastern North Dundas have reported receiving a very deceiving note in their mailboxes. The blue note has the word “Parcel” written in large letters at the top, followed by the smaller words, “We are holding a parcel for you”. There is a phone number and a believable set of business hours with a prompt to call “within 48 hours”. The note even specifies that those who call should “ask for the delivery department”. Finally – an addition that is sure to sweeten the deal for some – “All shipping has been prepaid”.

It is likely that these notes are being distributed gradually, area by area, so North Grenville residents may be seeing them soon. One question that has been asked repeatedly on social media is why Canada Post is distributing something that seems to obviously be a scam. Although the note is incredibly deceiving, sneaky, dirty, and underhanded, it is not necessarily what we would call a full-blown “scam”, hence the quotation marks around “scam” in my headline.

The fine print on the bottom of the note reads, “You may be asked to participate in a product review. You must be a homeowner and be 19 years of age or older to claim your parcel.” This gives more insight into what the note is all about. It contains deception, but probably no outright lies. This explains why Canada Post, being a crown corporation, must be neutral and distribute this ad campaign just as they would do for any business.

The company is a home water and air quality company (and obviously one

that has no problem using dirty business practices). Their “parcel” could be anything. People have a tendency to dream big, and that’s exactly what the company wants. A lot of people will receive the notice and won’t be able to contain their excitement at the notion of a surprise – Could it be a laptop? A fancy vacuum cleaner? A new shiny set of kitchen knives? A lawnmower?

In reality, while the parcel is almost certainly real, it would be nothing special. It’s not even worth speculating, but the reality is that if it was something worth $2, the company would still not be engaging in false advertising – a $2 parcel is still a parcel. The use of the word “parcel” itself is deceiving because we associate the word with things we have ordered online, and therefore things that we actually like and want, but this “parcel” is certainly nothing we ordered and almost certainly nothing of use or value.

“All shipping has been prepaid” is another statement that is likely true, but there’s a catch – the shipping is prepaid because the fine print states that the person who delivers the parcel must be allowed to come into your home and demonstrate a product. This may be an air purifier or a water purification system. You can bet that the salesperson would be ready to use underhanded tricks to instill fear. By the end of the sales pitch, you would be convinced that your water and air are toxic, and that the overpriced junk system you have been asked to give a “product review” for may save your life.

Of course, you can say no, give the product a bad review, and legally under the terms on the blue note, you should still receive your parcel. However, it would be folly to think that after turning down a pushy salesperson, you would receive anything but cheap garbage.

Remember – a parcel is a parcel, and there is no promise of receiving anything specific or valuable.

If this seems like a lot of work and deception on the part of the company just to make a sale, it’s because it absolutely is, but the work can often be worth it. Any person who has ever worked in cold call sales knows that entering a person’s home is a huge stepping stone to making a sale. People feel vulnerable with a stranger in their own home and pressured to accept a deal, usually because they are made to feel that they are evil for not “protecting their family” if they don’t buy.

I myself worked very briefly in door-to-door security system sales a decade ago. We were trained to say things like “oh, you don’t want to protect your family?” (in a heavily sarcastic tone) when a traditional looking “family man” answered the door. I never said the phrase to anyone, partially because I didn’t want to get punched, and partially because I knew it was shifty and wrong. I was fired from that job after two short months, right before the end of the summer job contract end date, out of spite. The reason? I refused to tell elderly ladies that they would be sexually assaulted in the middle of the night if they didn’t buy my alarm system. We were absolutely not a scam company and we were selling contracts for one of the biggest alarm companies in the world. But the world of sales can be dirty no matter what is being sold and who is selling it.

The lesson here? Just throw out the blue notices. Watch them fall into the recycle bin, and know that a dishonest company paid for them for no reason. That is your greatest revenge, and the easiest way to protect yourself from being tricked. It also means one less useless parcel in your garbage. Let common sense prevail!

Tid bit musings

by Elva Patterson Rutters RSSW

The pendulum of life seems to swing from far left to far right with little provocation. Why it seems counterproductive to go to the extremes is questionable and yet it varies according to each individual. Is there no middle ground? Where is your pendulum and why is it where it is?

Where or who is your guiding compass?

Fashion has demonstrated this swing from maxi-length to mini skirts, and suits to golf shirts for formal wear. Saying to wear what you feel comfortable in makes the essence of "dressing up" null and void. At one time, wearing holey jeans or mismatched socks was a disgrace and now items are sold at exorbitant prices for that look. Give it time and the fashion circulates again. What do you wear, when and why?

Terminology, technology and conformity tend to rule most folks. As much as we have more advanced technology, the demands on an individual are taxed to the breaking point. Of course, maturity plays a huge role in assessing situations. We go through a stage of learning until we think we know it all and then realize in later life, we

really had no grasp on the reality. Our experiences are not that different from generation to generation. Being open to continued contemplation and application of lessons learned creates a better informed individual. You know your pendulum is stuck when you start to argue!

Parents are afraid to discipline their child with consequences in fear of reprisal. The end result is people who have no respect for boundaries or limitations. Our courts exacerbate this with easy sentences. Behaviours linked to alcohol consumption are now identified as FASD, but who is studying the effects of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on children? If the THC collects in the fat cells reproductive organs and the brain to the extent that heavy marijuana use stops the menstrual cycle, then that basket of eggs must also be affected. Just because something is legal doesn't make consumption safe. The argument is that pot does nothing to you, but then why are you using it? We must keep in mind the brain is developing rapidly in the teen years until it matures around age 25.

Wakes and funerals used to command a three day performance and now people are electing to have no service. Is a funeral really different than a celebration of life? If there is

no service, does that mean the individual didn't believe in their self- worth, they don't believe in afterlife? Or has addressing the passing into eternity of someone minimized the grieving process? The fact is you are special and worthwhile just because you exist.

Consider that the acquisition of new facts or theories keeps one open to deflecting personal criticism, engagement in progressive development and more harmony. Know "why" you believe what you do. It is like the newly wed couple that cut the ends of the ham in preparation for the family gathering. Not knowing why resulted in learning Grandpa did it just so that ham fit the roast pan- no secret recipe involved!

Be true to thine own self!!!

KYC accepting books for annual fundraising book fair

submitted by Bruce Wehlau

The Kemptville Youth Centre’s preparations for their annual Book Fair fundraiser are well underway. In advance of the fundraiser, the KYC is collecting donations of books to be sold at the event. The books will be collected at the Ferguson Forest Outlet Store located on Veterans Way, off of County Road 44, in the month of July. Books can be dropped off on Thursdays from 4pm-6pm, and on Saturdays from 9am-12pm. The Book Fair fundraiser will take place 18th-20th August.

A six-person volunteer team from the RBC bank helps KYC volunteers sort books.