The Scoop // October / November 2014

SCOOP The

ocToBeR / NoVeMBeR 2014

www.thescoop.ca

celebrates rural life

hunkering Down for Winter

Autumn in Yarker

Bell School Memories

Raspberry Ridge Farms

Fall on the Farm

SCOOP here’s The Scoop...

A The

By Angela Saxe

Celebrates rural life Founded in 2005 by Richard Saxe

puBlisher / Designer & aD sales Karen Nordrum stonemills.scoop@gmail.com

eDitor

Angela Saxe angela.saxe@gmail.com

photographer

Barry Lovegrove barrylovegrove@bell.net All photographs are by Barry unless otherwise noted.

hoW to contact us

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contriButors to this issue

Rachel Bell, Leah Birmingham, Sally Bowen, Carolyn Butts, Catherine Coles, Mary Jo Field, Alyce Gorter, J. Huntress, Lena Koch, Barry Lovegrove, Cam Mather, Blair McDonald, Susan Moore, Christine Oastler, Angela Saxe, Grace Smith, Terry Sprague, Chad Taylor, Stella Thompson, Sue Wade, Jeff Whan, Barb Wilson, Isabel Wright The contents of this publication are protected by copyright.

Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

The Scoop is an independent publication and is not affiliated with nor funded by any corporation or interest group.

bundance is the opposite of scarcity and if scarcity conjures up images of deprivation, poverty and death, then abundance promises growth, vitality and life. Human history is filled with years of both. Civilizations flourished or crumbled depending on the size of their harvests. Today we take it for granted that our grocery stores will always provide us with food but it’s a sobering thought to consider that a metropolis like Toronto only has enough food on hand for a day and a half. If transport trucks suddenly stop and deliveries are not made, our grocery store shelves would empty very quickly. Even those of us who have large gardens and preserve our food or who hunt and fish cannot really provide our families, let alone our friends with enough food to last a season.

enriches my life, that I have the health, love and support of family and friends. I’m grateful that I live in Canada and not in a wartorn country. I’m grateful for a health care system that provides medical care to every citizen and an educational system that provides opportunities to youth.

As a female, I’m especially grateful to be living in Canada in the 21st century and not in a time and place where I would be silenced, marginalized and deprived of human rights.

No wonder then that the celebration of Thanksgiving is such an important time, not only historically but even today. It’s not just a time to roast a huge turkey, bake pies and enjoy a well cooked meal, it’s really a time to stop and be grateful for the abundance that surrounds us. Thanksgiving also reminds us that we must ensure that those who are not as fortunate receive the largess of our bountiful society.

Canadian history marks the first celebration of Thanksgiving occurring in 1578 when Martin Frobisher, trying to find the northern passage to the Pacific, stopped at Baffin Island and celebrated not abundance, but survival. Early Americans as well celebrated Thanksgiving at Plymouth because they survived food scarcity and illness. The pilgrims would have died if it was not for the native people who lived, farmed and hunted on the land for thousands of years. Yet their progeny have not received the same generosity they once showed their guests. Years of subjugating them, of seizing their land, of systematically destroying their culture have left them with scant resources to live meaningful lives.

No matter how much material wealth we possess, there is much to be grateful for and it’s a good thing to feel gratitude and to voice it. I’m grateful that I live in a healthy rural environment surrounded by a diversity that

The world is not perfect and there’s much that can be done to improve not only our lives but those around us. It doesn’t serve us well to be smug and to think that we can take all this for granted; the universe has a way of turning

things around quite unexpectedly.

As municipal elections take place this month and as our federal election approaches, it’s wise for us to consider: Do our leaders believe in sharing this abundance?

Do they promote health and well being of the land and its people?

Do they move through a world with respect and generosity?

At the municipal candidates’ meeting I attended recently taxes dominated the concerns of the would-be politicians and the audience. Ancient civilizations first came up with the idea of taxing people in order to prop up the wealth of the ruling class. In modern times, taxation provides funding for services for the good of all the citizens – and that’s an admirable thing. It’s the misuse of our money that riles many but whether taxes are too high or too low is really a matter of ideology.

Nobody likes to give their money to governments, but we feel better about paying taxes if we see a benefit to not only ourselves but to others.

Politicians, whether they work at the municipal, provincial or federal level must be mindful that they have a responsibility to the citizens they represent and not to their own personal ambition. It is their responsibility to ensure that the abundance of our country is well used and that we all share in the wealth.

Happy Thanksgiving to all our readers!

NEW FALL HOURS (Starting October 13)

Monday CLOSED Tuesday CLOSED Wednesday 11 - 7 Thursday 11 - 7 Friday 8-8 Saturday 8-8 Sunday 8-7

Letters and submissions are most welcome and encouraged.

cover photo

Chipmunk, getting ready for winter.

Photo by Sydney Smith.

2

THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

613-929-3200 or 613-888-3566 Fall Cleanups starting at $75

Call before Oct. 31 to book your winter snowplowing and save

Walk for claire

By Barry Lovegrove

W

hat more could you ask for? The weather was great, the participation was great and the outcome was even better. This year’s walk for Claire in Tamworth raised $12,000 - a symbol of a great community walking together to make thing happen. All the money raised will go directly to the Pediatric Oncology Clinic at Kingston General Hospital. It will buy games, toys, and crafts for the children to use while receiving chemotherapy treatment at the clinic. It will also

be used to help families during the difficult times while their child is undergoing treatment. Many, many thanks go out to all that organized the walk in Claire Rogers’ name.

IN MA

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VOTE TO ELECT CLARENCE A. KENNEDY

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STONE MILLS TOWNSHIP VOTING PERIOD Monday, Oct. 20th to Monday, Oct. 27th VOTING DAY Monday, Oct. 27 at four township poll locations

FIRE SAFETY MESSAGE FROM STONE MILLS FIRE DEPARTMENT

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Prompt service Free estimates Pump installations & service Wells decommissioned & abandoned

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October / November 2014 • THE SCOOP

3

Richmond Landfill/Beechwood Road environmental centre Update

By Carolyn Butts & Jeff Whan

W

hy are we still talking about the Richmond Landfill? Wasn’t it closed? Wasn’t its proposed expansion declined? The reality is a landfill might close but it never goes away. It must be monitored for centuries for environmental impacts on air and water. When the Richmond landfill was capped in 2010 Waste Management designed a monitoring plan. It outlined how they would continue to test for impacts and report them to the Ministry of the Environment. The Concerned Citizens group, who has been closely involved in the closing of the landfill since 1999, determined that this Environmental Monitoring Plan did not go far enough to protect the surrounding community.

For years Waste management has incorrectly claimed that there are no off-site impacts. Research conducted by experts retained by the Concerned Citizens reveals the landfill is leaking into surrounding groundwater. Waste Management is proposing to locate a mega-dump four times the size right beside the old Richmond Landfill. The Citizens group wants this to be a major issue in the upcoming civic election.

We’ve collected some frequently asked questions and provided some answers which we hope will educate the public.

1. What are the major concerns with the old dump? The old Richmond Landfill has been leaking for decades. Nonetheless the dump owner, Waste Management (WM), long denied that there were offsite impacts. This has now been proven to be false. A massive leachate plume extends hundreds of meters off-site, neighbours’ private wells have been contaminated

alternatives? Waste Management recently got approval to expand its landfill near Ottawa. LaFleche Environmental has a large landfill built on 80 feet of clay near Cornwall. These two sites have ample capacity.

with leachate and contamination is spreading. WM has not yet determined the full extent nor the full impact of the leakage (which continues unchecked), nor have they proposed a method of containment.

2. What is the concern with leachate in groundwater? When rain falls onto a dump, it produces “leachate” – a contaminated, toxic mix made up of thousands of chemicals leaching out of the dump’s wastes. These chemicals can cause cancer and other illnesses.

When a dump leaks, its leachate flows into groundwater and spreads.

Underlying fractured limestone at this site makes it difficult to detect and impossible to contain.

3. Leachate from the dump is trucked to Napanee and treated at the sewage treatment plant. What are the risks? The sewage treatment plant may not be able to treat many of the toxic chemicals in leachate.

A huge concern is the frequency of by-pass events, when untreated sewage is flushed out of the plant during storms. Leachate chemicals then flow through the plant into the Napanee River and on to the Bay of Quinte.

7. What would be the economic impact on Greater Napanee if it were to host a new mega-dump?

There will be off-site impacts and Real-estate values will fall. Tourism will be negatively affected as other undesirable businesses are attracted to the area at the expense of desirable investment. Napanee could become a centre for various dirty industries.

4. The proposed new mega-dump (BREC) will have a “state of the art” liner. Won’t that be safe? All liners eventually leak. That is why experts recommend that the site selection for new landfills should consider the eventual pathways of any leak. The groundwater pathways in the area are highly irregular and unpredictable. This was the main reason the Minister of the Environment rejected the expansion of the present dump in 2006.

8. In 2001 Napanee Council unanimously passed a resolution declaring Napanee to be an unwilling host. Why is this issue important in the 2014 election?

With the threat of an even larger dump on the same site, we urge the new Council to take similar action. If you agree, please ask your candidates where they stand on this critical issue.

5. Waste Management is the world’s largest landfill operator.

Can’t we rely on them to do a good job? In spite of its size Waste Management has incorrectly declared for years that there have been no off-site impacts from the Richmond Landfill. We know now that they failed to detect the off-site contamination, did not notify the public and have no plan to contain the leaks. We can have no confidence in their ability to protect our community.

To see a map of known contaminated wells or to get more information on 1.3 dioxane, visit www.leakyland.com. Purchase a raff le ticket to help support our continued pressure for answers and actions.

La Senda

Eco Store & Naturopathic Clinic 46 Dundas Steet East, Napanee

613.308.9077

6. Garbage must go somewhere.

What are the

Your individual path to optimal health.

2014-15 TECDC Concert Series DeL BARBeR & THE PROFITEERS • • • • •

$30

Saturday, October 25 coRIN RAYMoND

2011 JUNO nominee 2011 Album of the Year - Western Canadian Music Award 2012 Roots Recording of the Year 2014 Album Prairieography #1 on Roots Charts Featured on CMT And on Sunday, November 23, 2:00 p.m. at the Tamworth Library, don’t miss Corin Raymond’s award winning BooKWoRM. This is storytelling that has comedy, drama, plenty of beauty and life-inspiration, and a climax no one could possibly predict, all wrapped into an hour.

Free admission. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Sponsored by the Tamworth Legion, Branch 458 and Lennox & Addington Public Libraries.

$25

Saturday, November 22

• Nominated Best Vocal Ensemble in 2013 by Canadian Folk Music • His album There Will Always Be A Small Time reached #5 in the US • Won Alt-Country Album of the Year 2013

Upcoming Shows TRENT SEVERN STEPHEN FEARING & ANDY WHITE CARLOS DEL JUNCO LUNCH AT ALLEN’S

Call 613.379.2808 for tickets or info January 10 February 14 March 28 May 2

$30 $25 $30 $40

All concerts at Tamworth Legion 7:00 p.m. doors open 8:00 p.m. start PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS.

Steve Marshall Licensed Technician Erinsville 613 379 5818

4

THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

Memory Pictures

By J. Huntress

“I

still find myself harping back to those old days of discomfort in the old red schoolhouse which somehow clings to one’s memories, not all pleasant ones either.”

Mary Donovan—Memoirs of Sheffield Township, 1966

and other small schools in the area amalgamated and the pupils were relocated to the new Tamworth Continuation School which at that time consisted of four classrooms, a Lab, a Library and an office; additional classrooms would be added on in later years.

“Like daughter, like mother.” Aleta Donovan, the 20 year old daughter of Mary and Jerry Donovan, wrote a journal in 1914 recording her school days at MacDonald College and years later her mother at the age of 93, wrote Memoirs of Sheffield Township, 1966 (See The Scoop’s August/September issue, Aleta’s Journal).

It was not easy then (nor is it now) to find teachers willing to work in harsh winter conditions and locations away from cities. It was necessary that teachers room and board with rural families living near the school as their salaries were so low they could not afford to pay for housing of their own.

Close proximity to school in the 1880s meant one mile or more, necessitating the teacher to be “driven to work” by horse and buggy or horses hooked to a sleigh usually by the farmer or one of his sons. A chair was attached to the wagon of the sleigh so the teacher could be more comfortable as the horses galloped through the woods.

Imagine the scene Mary describes of the farmer whose wife and baby one time accompanied the teacher to visit relatives nearby. Mary writes, “One time the sleigh darted ahead and jolted Aunt Katy, her chair, and baby off the wagon and into a snow bank. I leave the rest to your imagination!”

Mary’s record of Sheffield and Camden Township genealogies, her own family history beginning with the life of her grandfather James Huffman as well as the collection of stories depicting life in the late 1800s, schools, social events, etc.—all make for informative and entertaining reading. James called the tales “memory pictures” and one of his favourites was a description of the early wilderness: “…inhabited only by Indians, who did not realize its possibilities except for the deer and abundance of fish in the Salmon River which were easily available when need arose and bows and arrows were used to shoot, rods and lines to catch the fish.”

Mary was born in Sheffield Township in 1873, the daughter of William and Jane Huffman, granddaughter of James and Flora Huffman, two of the first pioneers to settle in Lennox and Addington County in 1826. Mary and her three siblings attended The Bell School in the 1880s, a small one-room school built to educate rural children in the area. It stood on the east side of the intersection at Shibaugua Road and County Road 4.

After completing her schooling at the Newburgh Academy, Mary married Jerry Donovan (b. 1860) in 1893 and in 1894 gave birth to her daughter Aleta, three years later her son Thomas was born.

She and her husband farmed the land and after raising her children, Mary took a position teaching at the Denby School. Then in her early 90s, she wrote down her memories of Sheffield Township and its inhabitants. Mary would type up copies of Sheffield Township Memoirs and sell them for $4.00 to interested people. (Mrs. Cora Reid a local historian lent me her copy and it is the major source of material in this article.)

The first Andrew Bell School was built from logs in the 1830s and nearly two dozen children from the various Bell families living in the area received their education there.

After a fire destroyed the school in the 1850s, John Adair Sr. rented out some of his land “up the hill where the lilacs grow” to be used for constructing the second, framebuilt Bell School. A third enlarged Bell School was built in 1885 on the same property to educate as many as 104 children. In 1912 Bell

Teachers remembered from those days are Agnes Jones, Elizabeth Hazzard, Susan Breault, May Murray and Pascal DeRoche Shorez.

“Children with their one-track minds would wonder what the new teacher would be like, how she would look, dress, etc. I remember my very first day at school and my little friends coming to meet me along with my brother and two sisters. I was a ‘new pupil.’ My new teacher dressed beautifully and was exceedingly kind to the new pupils.”

Once inside the schoolhouse the older boys had to quickly stoke the “lion stove” with wood and even then the schoolroom wouldn’t get suitably warm until day’s end.

Generally, most children didn’t look back on those days kindly remembering the discomforts of the schoolhouse. The majority of the young students would grow up to live their lives farming, weaving cloth and sewing clothing, building homes and farms, blacksmithing, mothering and nursing, and many other tenacious jobs. Few men and women in the area would become teachers, lawyers, doctors, or other professions. Lennox and Addington County required tenacious settlers willing to work and live hardscrabble lives. Mary called teaching “an uphill battle.”

The pupils had to walk a long way to school, at least a mile or more in length. Mary writes in her memoir that children profited from these long walks because they had time to assimilate the day’s lessons and to reflect on them. Always looking for adventure, boys would often dare each other to “walk fences” and Mary tells the story of her husband doing this and losing his balance: “.... he fell and cut his tongue badly and

it was his visiting aunt who found a cure that would help the tongue to heal. Doctors in those days were hard to get, even in emergencies, so they did the best they could but his tongue refused to heal. Aunt Katy sent one of the older children to get turpentine out of the blisters of a balsam tree. After a few applications the tongue began to heal and, in time, affected a perfect cure.”

more settled township but we too have our own memories. We still remember the rowdiness of school playgrounds, our past schoolmates and the excitement we felt on the first day of school.

Thanks to Cora Reid of Enterprise for finding her copy of Sheffield Township Memoirs and for loaning it to us to read and to share. The Scoop hopes other residents in our rural communities who are in possession of journals or who have their own “memory pictures” will consider having The Scoop review their stories for publication.

When children were not helping parents with chores and working on homework from school they would play games together but the excitement and fun of dancing and playing cards was forbidden in most households due to religious beliefs. The children participated with their SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22 --- 5:30 P.M. parents and Tree Lighting - Christmas Carolling relatives Refreshments in corn TAMWORTH LIBRARY hustings, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 --- 5:00 - 9:00 P.M. quilting Christmas Buffet parties, barn LAKEVIEW TAVE RN, ERINSVI LLE raisings and community SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7 --- 10:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M. suppers.

Village Christmas Craft Fair

A Village Christmas IN TAMWORTH This holiday season join in the traditional events being celebrated in our village.

These are some of the “memory pictures” remembered and written down

by Mary Donovan.

Today we dwell in a

DOWNTOWN TAMWORTH

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7 --- 1:00 P.M.

Royal Canadian Legion #458 Santa Claus Parade

Downtown - The River Bakery to the Soccer Field on County Rd. 4.

Photos with Santa and refreshments at The Legion Hall after the Parade.

Over the holiday season, shop at our local merchants for gifts, crafts, books, food, movies....

Many thanks to the TECDC, Legion Branch 458 and Robert Storring (C21 Lanthorn Real Estate) for their continued support.

2014

Beginning in early December, food donation boxes for the Lions Club Christmas Hampers will be located around Tamworth and Erinsville. Let’s fill those boxes so no-one in our community goes without this Christmas.

October / November 2014 • THE SCOOP

5

The Scoop Interviews Stone Mills Municipal Candidates

O

ver the last nine years, The Scoop has been bringing residents of Stone Mills stories to amuse, entertain and most importantly to inform them about events and people in their rural communities. We know that our readers care about issues close to home so we invited all municipal candidates to answer the following four questions.

Everyone responded except for Eric Smith (acclaimed), Todd Hartin and Deb Thompson who chose not to.

Answers were edited for brevity.

1. What is your primary reason for running for office?

2. Taxation is on everyone’s mind especially since we have one of the highest taxation rates in the county. Would you add to or subtract from any particular budget category and why?

3. What are your recreational interests?

4. The Scoop celebrates rural life in Stone Mills. If elected, how would you continue to celebrate and foster the health of our rural communities? (eg: sports & recreation, health, local economy, attracting businesses)

Douglas Bearance We should work towards maintaining tax increases of 2% each year going forward. 1% for operations & 1% going towards fixed assets over time.

Cut out the whistles and bells that are not necessary. When I was young...a very long time ago, my mom told me “Look after the pennies, & the Dollars will look after themselves” Borrowing more is not the answer.

We have to start living within our means and set aside dollars until we can pay for what is required. In other words practice fiscal restraint and accountability...thus acting in the best interest of the entire township.

We need to find ways to support the businesses we have and bring in more. We need to work together to help our medical centre stay.

I always listen to what people say and I always call things the way I see it. Councils decisions should be make in the best interest of the majority and not worry about our popularity in the next election.

Douglas Davison 1. Throughout my 35 years on Twp. Council, I’ve always wanted to see that ALL ratepayers/ residents are treated fairly and with respect. I’m committed to ensuring that the new council will represent everyone in this manner. I believe that my past council and management experience will be beneficial to the success of the new council.

2. I would do neither. The way to decrease the tax burden is to increase assessment growth.

3. I support all forms of recreation for all ages. My personal interest is walking and I am a strong

6

supporter of the C.A.T. trail which is used by all age groups from small children to seniors. We must encourage folks to make use of our facilities.

4. Yes! I believe that council must be prepared to step outside of the box and challenge accepted norms. {ie} form a roundtable discussion group with small business and council and proactively discuss ways to encourage new business in setting up in our communities.

This will increase assessment.

We need to encourage the use of facilities like the arena – increased use makes the facility more viable.

Eric Depoe

1. I’m running for Council so I can give back to the community that has supported my restaurant for the last 16 years. I want to help build a vibrant and sustainable community in Stone Mills.

2. Taxation is a difficult issue for all rural municipalities. An economic development strategy is needed to expand the tax base, so costs would be spread over more taxpayers, thus lowering the bill for each one. I will work to activate this strategy.

3. My recreational interests include cooking, walking, and listening to music. I love to dance and go to live concerts. I am really looking forward to Del Barber and the Profiteers right here in Stone Mills.

4. Bringing new events and activities to our community helps to make it more vibrant. For example, I am one of the people who started the successful Yarker Farmers Market, which is a healthy local food source for the community, contributes to the local economy, and provides farmers and local artisans with income. Best of all, it helps to build our community.

Martha Embury 1. In recent months I have been approached by various individuals in the community requesting me to run for councillor on Stone Mills Council. For that reason combined with the fact I was on Council from 2006 to 2010 and thoroughly enjoyed serving the residents of our municipality is why I’m running for public office.

2. Small businesses and industry bolster tax base growth in Stone Mills – this can happen by creating space for innovation, cutting red tape or proactively engaging the business community. Form an Economic Development working group to develop an economic plan.

Promote local businesses and trades by developing a Stone Mills web page to improve their visibility and viability. Redesign the regulatory environment in Stone Mills to encourage new housing and help small businesses to open safely and

THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

quickly. A better understanding of permits, licensing, and zoning is required. Also, I would be a strong advocate for the extension of natural gas in our Township as well as affordable hydro rates.

3. My recreational interests include life on my family farm in Newburgh. I also enjoy my daily walks on the Cataraqui Trail.

Indoor interests include sewing, quilting, cooking and preserving produce from my garden.

4. Recreation has a major impact on the lives of residents in any community. Traditionally the focus of recreation has been on formal sports and competitive pursuits, I propose to create a Recreation Master Plan intended to help meet the needs of current and future residents by taking inventory of our community recreational assets and potential opportunities. It establishes a clear direction to guide staff and elected officials and it takes into account the needs of all age groups from the very young to our seniors.

Clarence Kennedy 1. I have a genuine interest in all of Stone Mills and in municipal politics. My varied experience in education and farming as well as thirteen years on council has provided me with good skills and strong leadership abilities. I’ve received much encouragement to run for Reeve.

2. It’s difficult to choose one area to cut. Essential services should not be compromised. The approach to be taken requires a great deal of discussion on the part of Council, Staff and ratepayers.

Council’s responsibility and duty is to execute due diligence and spend time on each issue.

It would help to have a vision/ strategic plan to assist in this regard.

3. Recreational interests include: activities at Stone Mills community Centre, the Cat Trail, ball diamonds, soccer field, snowmobile trails, community playgrounds and parklands. From an environmental point, Stone Mills offers opportunities for a wide range of activities through our lakes, rivers and recreational lands. All of this should assist in the promotion of tourism in Stone Mills as a destination.

4. The Medical centre is an integral part of the community and township and Council should play a role in ensuring that this service continues whether by assistance in procuring medical staff, financial incentives and / or assisting in provision for a facility. There are many buildings and spaces in our communities where development may occur.

Council can assist potential entrepreneurs through local community groups and the county Economic Development Committee to procure funding through “granting Foundations’ for new businesses.

Wenda Lalande 1. My family and I have had a wonderful life in this township and I felt it was a good time to give back. As head of a hospital department I have skills that are well-suited to governance.

I am motivated, well organized and feel I would make a good councillor helping to make this a place where people are eager to visit, to reside and to work.

2. The Roads Department – identify waste and improve efficiency and if possible, streamline their budget. Work with other rural municipalities ( Rural Ontario Municipalities Association) in lobbying the provincial government with the intention of alleviating the pressure of policing costs in small rural areas.

Re-establish the recreation committee to allow for more support, efficiency and openness.

Continue to explore options to maintain the Tamworth Medical Centre in the township. Support initiatives to keep both Salmon and Napanee rivers healthy.

Create a Commercial Business Users group that would provide network opportunities, provide a valuable resource for grant applications process and to put forward ideas to Council such as the creation of an innovative “new Commercial Property tax” option 3. I am an avid hiker, walker and snowshoer, I attend my grandchildren’s hockey and soccer games. I belong to a book club, sing in a choir, attend yoga classes and am involved in community and township based activities.

4. Re-establish the recreation committee, support the Tamworth arena, explore fundraising options to offset the high operational costs. Help to maintain and promote the Cataraqui Trail/ Trans Canada Trails. Maintain the health of the Napanee and Salmon River watersheds. Work towards healthy drinking water for all constituents and offer WIFI to the entire Township

Cam Mather 1. We are entering a phase of human history defined by challenges. The International Energy Agency says we hit peak conventional oil in 2005.

Extreme weather is becoming the norm as we begin to experience climate change first hand and I believe governments have not dealt with the root causes of the 2008 financial collapse and have masked them with debt and money printing. So I believe Stone Mills must get out ahead of the next crisis in advance.

2. I would subtract from our roads budget so that as fuel costs rise the transportation portion

continued on page 7...

Municipal candidates ...continued from page 6 of our taxes will already have been reduced. I would add to emergency services. Events such as last spring’s flooding throughout the township or ice storms or other extreme weather will become the norm with climate change. We need to provide those in emergency services who help residents deal with such events the proper tools.

3. In the summer I spend all day growing food for our CSA, and in the winter I focus on cutting firewood to heat with, and reading and writing books and blogs, playing some happy hockey, shoveling rinks on the pond and attending meetings of the Tamworth & Erinsville Community Development Committee. Plus I like to rent videos from Tamworth Village Video!

4. I have been active with the Tamworth and Erinsville Community Development Committee in its many activities, which include trying to figure out how to attract business to the area and to get residents to patronize local enterprises. I believe we need to nurture the numerous small businesses that are already here or that residents would like to establish and develop of network so that everyone knows what is available and local businesses can help each other grow and prosper.

sean Milligan 1. The primary reason I am running for councillor is for a personal challenge.

2. Yes, taxes are on everyone’s mind. The biggest goal will be not to increase taxes; we will have to go over the budget carefully.

I feel Stone Mills township has spent enough on new equipment for the roads department and our fleet of personal vehicles, so there might be some possibilities to cut in that area.

3. My recreation activities are hunting, fishing, hockey, reading and community functions.

4. I think our villages do an excellent job with the events they put on, i.e. Western Days, The Enterprise Jamboree, the Yarker farmers market, The Newburgh Canal Bash to name a few. We have recreation fields in most of the villages throughout the township, an indoor hockey rink, as well as an outdoor hockey rink. Within the township we have artists, craftsmen, and other talented people that do a lot for the area. The township needs to promote all of the amenities that are available to encourage local people to stay, as well as draw more people and new business to Stone Mills township.

Kevin richMonD 1. After retiring two years ago I have had time to pursue my interest in politics and started attending council meetings on a regular basis where I became interested and engaged in various issues.

I hope the people of this municipality will let me bring

forth their problems or issues to council.

2. Actively looking at increased promotion of businesses in our Community and reviewing our Policing budget in relation to our municipal needs. As a concerned council we should also be looking at all budget categories.

3. I enjoy the outdoors and fishing with my two grandchildren, and also taking time out for scenic rides on my motorcycle. At one time I had an active private pilot’s licence which I enjoyed very much.

4. I feel we need to maintain and upgrade all our recreational areas. Support local health services with due considerations to our doctors and their locations. Promote and assist our new and existing business with the possible creation of a Rural Economic Development Committee within our municipality.

toDD steele 1. I feel I have something to offer to the process of governance of Stone Mills. My hands on experience as a councillor and deputy reeve will be an asset as we face financial and other pressures. As a community builder, I am committed to the betterment of Stone Mills Township.

2. Having been through several budget sessions, I am well aware of what’s involved in the process.

All aspects of the budget with an emphasis on our largest department – public works must be closely examined. Cuts may have to be made but without affecting service levels. We need more aggressive rehabilitation of the sidewalks in our hamlets and villages. There’s been a great deal of capital costs in the recreation department for playground equipment – I’d like to see that continue as this type of investment attracts families to our community.

3. My recreation interests are: anything outdoors, playing guitar, travelling as time and finances permit, being involved in community events.

4. If elected, I will initiate an on-going dialogue with the business community around how township policies and bylaws affect them. Our business community is what drives us – and we have to be supportive of them. The Reeve should take a hands-on approach in attracting business development by meeting with potential developers and introducing them to the necessary staff at township and county level.

Kevin Wagar 1. To keep taxes under control. That is my only goal and always has been for my 10 years around the council table. It’s up to council to separate the needs from the wants and get our taxes down!

I have an 8 point plan which will see our taxes go down while having no noticeable impact on our services.

2. I would implement a municipal hiring freeze, assess every position and whether we need to replace it when someone leaves

or retires. I would assess every road project. Undertaking multi-million dollar road projects that are not critical could be cut out and be a huge tax savings. We could cut the cost of council by 40%. If we implement my 8 point plan we would not just see no tax increases, we could see a net reduction of 10-12%!

3. I love spending time with my wife and kids. Apart from working – 20 hours a day, except for Sundays which I try to keep free for family. I have just started jogging – I may not like to do it, but if I have an hour free during the day, it’s exercising.

4. We need to focus on attracting businesses to our towns while having these priorities: keep family doctors in Newburgh and Tamworth, the fire halls open in Newburgh and Yarker, keep our public facilities in Enterprise, Newburgh and �Tamworth and keep the Yarker/Colebrook area vibrant with projects such as the Colebrook dam. I don’t think rural life and employment opportunities have to be independent of each other. BUT economic development must be a goal of the next council.

Lower taxes are possible and my 8 point plan will get us there and make our towns and business areas more vibrant while maintaining our rural lifestyle we all embrace.

ALTERNATIVE VOTING New in 2014, electors will be able to vote by internet and telephone.

Although the limited use of paper ballots will be retained as well, these are primarily intended for those persons who are not familiar with computers or who are not comfortable with the use of a telephone key pad for accessing varying accounts or transactions.

Bylaw 2014-727 was adopted by Council on March 17, 2014 which authorized electors to use alternative forms of voting in the 2014 election.

Bylaw 2014-727: http://tinyurl.com/altvoting

CHANGES TO THE VOTERS LIST The EL-15 is an official form established pursuant to the Muncipal Elections Act to add a name fo the voters list, to correct information on the voters list and to delete a name from the voters list. Any person may complete the EL-15 from and submit this application to the Clerk for consideration. Copy of the EL-15 form is available at the Township office or is available at the following link: http://tinyurl.com/form-el-15

John Wise

2013 ELECTIONS AT LARGE

1. It’s pretty simple, really – I

On April 15, 2013 the Council of the

enjoy working with other people on community issues and coming up with solutions.

2. I don’t think you can go into budget deliberations with a preconceived agenda or an attitude that some things are sacred. You have to deal with each budget item in context and take a pragmatic approach to spending decisions.

3. I love skating and playing hockey – I am at the arena five times a week in the winter. I also enjoy hiking, cross country skiing, and looking at the night sky. Indoors I play the guitar, and love to jam with other musicians.

4. The township provides and maintains facilities for recreation, and citizens volunteer and participate in activities in those facilities. I see the role of the township as a facilitator to help groups obtain grants, to provide insurance where applicable, and to provide limited funding when possible.

I want to work with Drs. Cowan and McFadzean, interested community members and provincial government agencies to ensure that a medical practice continues in the Tamworth area.

We have to find ways to make our commercial tax rate more competitive with neighbouring municipalities. We must protect our most basic resources-our lakes, rivers and groundwater, our wilderness areas, and our agricultural lands so that the quality of life in Stone Mills is healthy for our citizens, and attractive to those looking for a place to buy or build a home or business.

Township of Stone Mills voted in favour of holding Elections at Large.

As a result of this decision, and commencing in 2014, elections will be held allowing each qualified voter to cast a vote for every member of the Council of Stone Mills and will be provided the opportunity to elect the Deputy Reeve who will sit as a representative on County Council.

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October / November 2014 • THE SCOOP

7

Bear Scare

By Alyce Gorter

M

y father always said that bears were more afraid of me than I was of bears.

Although he never admitted it, he was wrong about a lot of other things, too.

It was early September, the trees still fully leaved and the weather warm enough to incite the lingering deerflies to snack off anything that moved. I hurried home from work to take advantage of the sunshine, saddled my thoroughbred and struck off down the highway with purposeful intent. A few days before, I had taken this same route when I had dropped a riding crop (value approximately $5.00) somewhere along the trail. It went against my upbringing not to put maximum effort into locating it.

Two miles down the road I left the pavement and struck off through the woods towards the creek where I was pretty sure the crop awaited discovery. My trusty steed ambled along, nose almost touching the path. This was unusual behaviour for him and made the ride less than pleasurable. I dismounted to lead him, thinking that I could not only protect him better from the annoying flies but I could make faster time on foot. After all, night was approaching.

The creek was a mile and a half in from the main road with a well developed forest on both sides of the rough wagon trail I was following. By the time I reached the creek, the sun was slowly sinking behind the trees draining the colour from my surroundings. I didn’t want to tarry too long but there was also an inner drive that kept me from going home without the crop. Not

finding it on the south shore of the creek I decided it must, in all probability, be lying just out of sight on the north side of the 10’ wide stream. My horse would have to be tethered so I looked around for a suitable hitching post.

previous job and screamed in unison BEAR!!!! Then, in a remarkable display of oneness never seen before or since, they focused exclusively on the problem at hand – how to extricate me safely back to civilization.

Just then a rattle of claws caused me to glance over my shoulder to see what was causing the racket. A large raccoon, followed by another, was scaling the large oak about 25’ away from me on the other side of the creek. This is the actual conversation that occurred inside my head: Me: (in a hurry to find crop and get home) Raccoons — heading to the water for supper and I took them by surprise.

Practical Me: Pretty big for a raccoon.

Me: (not wanting to allow room for alternatives) Probably the mother raccoon went up first.

Practical Me: Not the way a mother raccoon would behave, you know, putting herself ahead of the babies.

Me: What do you know about raccoons! Hurry up and find the crop.

At this point, my faithful Rottweiler, believing that he had the situation firmly in hand, took a stand on the rock facing the bear and, with hackles rising, began a low, surly Grr. I fully understand how hackles work. The hair on the back of my neck was standing stiff ly at attention each one quivering in disbelief and fear. I’ve read a lot and don’t remember that much. But, I had certainly read somewhere (and remembered) that bears like dogs – for dinner – and that dogs will race back to their masters for protection landing the bear right in the owner’s lap. I was between a rock and a hard place. Through clenched teeth and in the lowest growl I could utter and still be heard by (hopefully) only the dog I commanded – Come, and he did. And I, with ears pivoting to catch the first sound of bear splashing through water, now concentrated on getting ME to safety.

But the noise didn’t stop. Wondering how many raccoons there could really be, I lifted the heavy branch obscuring my view of the far side of the creek and LOOKED DIRECTLY INTO THE EYES OF MAMA BEAR. It is amazing how agile the brain becomes when unencumbered by extraneous workloads like figuring out what to have for supper, wondering if the truck payment went through and ordering the heart and lungs to keep functioning. Every grey cell immediately dropped its

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THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

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Was I in any great danger? Probably not. Mama bear knew I was there long before I had any clue that I was not alone. Do I stay out of the woods? Nope. Do I own bear repellant now? Yup. But, I figure the chances of me remembering how to use it correctly are about the same as the chances of me being able to quickly find a pointy stick, dance in between those huge paws and rending claws and jam it in an attacking bear’s mouth while I escape unscathed. So, I leave the bear repellant at home and keep an eye open for pointy sticks.

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When I finally found a rock that I could use to climb on board my 16.2 hand horse I wasted no time in doing so. As we raced through the woods, I kept expecting to hear that bear coming through the water, cutting me off at every turn or outrunning me and grabbing me from behind. When I finally reached the highway I turned into my neighbor’s yard. I just needed him to verify that there was nothing following me and that I was still intact.

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Various strategies have been recommended when it comes to confrontations with bears. At one time it was Stop and play dead.

Another time it was, Don’t run. Walk away. I was not about to play dead while I watched my horse and dog beat a hasty retreat. Go figure – if you were a hungry bear would you chase after a rapidly disappearing four-legged possible meal that could severely injure you or would you stroll up to the very-present,

almost-served-on-a-platter, soft morsel that at worse would only cause a problem if you got a bone stuck in your teeth? Yeah, that’s what I thought, too. So, the next question was: How fast can I walk before it looks like a run?

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Grateful at Thanksgiving

Fall Programming @ L&A Libraries

By Cam Mather

By Catherine Coles

I

’ve read a few books that talk about the keys to happiness. One common characteristic of happy people is that they enjoy a sense of community. A sense of community can come from your participation in a church, a hockey team, or even from just the neighborhood you live in. I believe that people who live in our community often have this feeling. We live in an amazingly beautiful place and many people like me, who moved here a decade and half ago, chose to live here because of just how great our community is.

The other most striking trait of happy people is that they are grateful. This sounds pretty basic but it’s harder to get there than you think. This isn’t just thanking the server at the restaurant for great service. This has to incorporate the bigger picture and lately I’ve been trying to work on my sense of gratitude.

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Part of this is easy and is something I’ve experienced since I moved here from the Greater Toronto area. I was really burned out on the traffic and BUCKS FOR A BIZCARD AD. $110culture FOR 3 which sprawl and consumer is the reality of life in a big city.

SSUES. YOU CAN’T BEAT THAT! In Tamworth the pace is slower, people take their time and I’ve learned to greet people on the street because if I don’t inevitably the other person will look me in the eye and say hello to me. How awesome is that!

I L E

I live in the bush and am surrounded by forests and wildlife. I am grateful to get up every morning and not be greeted by the sound of internal combustion engines, horns honking, sirens wailing and all of the other noises so common in a city. People who live in the country see power outages as a challenge.

Chartered Accountant In the city it’s a disaster. This sense 6661 Wheeler Street, of greater independence adds to the more peaceful disposition of a Tamworth, ON K0K 3G0 small town. Cities always seem to 613-379-1069 be one rainstorm away from a crisis.

The city of Burlington where I used to live, experienced two months worth of rain that fell in a couple of hours this past summer. It damaged up to 2,000 homes. Sewers that Solid Gold Organic were built for 100-year downpours PettoFood. were not designed handle100% the organic!

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Maybe it’s just me but it seems Vegetarian Formulas. that in places like Stone Mills Pick-up or more people volunteer anddelivery belong to community groups. They available.

Please call may be active in more their church, for information or a service group or a sports and catalogue.

Call team. Many people that I meet the of Regal Beagle: are active outside their paid work. Community fundraisers for 613-379-1101 families that need help after a fire or other catastrophic event are also something that seems to happen more often in rural communities.

e Mills Fire Department is holding a Blanket Drive. We As I drove the other ng for blankets to use athome emergency calls. Ifnight you have I came across two volunteer ets you would like to donate please drop them off at the firefiMills ghters, Tim office. and Nate, nship of Stone municipal Thankcleaning you, up after a car accident Stone Mills Fire Department just outside

of Tamworth. In the city fire fighting is one of the higher paying municipal careers. In Stone Mills it’s a volunteer position. This continues to amaze me. We have people who live in our community who spend evenings and weekends training and then drop everything when they are needed in an emergency. I am extremely grateful to the members of our volunteer emergency services. They are truly outstanding citizens.

T

he school year is settling down, fall is definitely in the air and the library is all set to continue its autumn programming lineup. Join us for some great brand new programs scheduled over the coming months.

One especially exciting new program we have started offering this fall is National Film Board screenings. The National Film Board of Canada (NFB) produces and distributes bold and distinctive social issue documentaries, auteur animation, alternative drama and innovative digital content that provide the world with a unique Canadian perspective. Since the NFB’s founding in 1939, it has created over 13,000 productions and won over 5,000 awards, including 12 Oscars and more than 90 Genies.

Everyone is welcome to these programs and all screenings are, as always, free. Keep in mind, though, that the content of some films may not be appropriate for children.

They are part of the amazing healthcare system for which I am also grateful. Decades ago while American unions were fighting for better health care for their workers, Canadian unions were fighting for a universal healthcare system that covered all Canadians. Sure it helped their members, but it has become the one feature of our collective conscience that defines us as a nation. I am grateful to every person who had the vision and resolve to fight for our Canadian healthcare system. As a smallbusiness owner who has had several The film we will be showing in encounters with that system that October is Out of Mind, Out of might have bankrupted my family, Sight. This documentary asks the I am grateful for the good health questions, ‘What happens to people “Hope, Purpose & Belonging in Long Term Care” we now enjoy and the extreme who suffer from mental illness and privilege that our system provides. commit violent crimes? Where do they go? How are they treated?’ It So many of these wonderful was filmed inside the Brockville characteristics of our great life here Mental Health Centre for 18 months, in Stone Mills are coming under allowing 46 patients and 75 staff increasing pressure. The climate, to share their experiences. We will which has provided us with a show this film at Amherstview, pretty stable environment to grow (October 20, 10 AM), Bath (October and prosper in, is becoming more 20, 6 PM) and Napanee (October unpredictable and extreme. The age 22, 10 AM). Our November film is of cheap and abundant energy that Ariel, about a man (Ariel) who at has allowed us to live so well in a just 33 had his legs shredded by an rural community is over. The fossil industrial dough mixer in Mendoza, fuels left in the ground are harder Argentina. From that point on, Ariel Napanee & District to get at and more expensive.

Oil began to rediscover the meaning that was $20/barrel a little over a of Commerce of freedom: to rebuild his broken Chamber decade ago is $100/barrel47 today. identity, keep his family together Dundas St. E • Napanee Governments at all levels often and design his own artificial legs.

613.354.6601 choose to run up debt to deal with We will show it at Amherstview www.napaneechamber.ca these challenges but in the long (November 17, 10 AM), Bath term they must be paid for by all of (November 17, 6PM) and Napanee Networking • Business Seminars us. Since “the government” is us, we (November 19, 10 AM). We hope Programs That Can Save Businesses $$ out to view these have an obligation to confront these you all come issues head on, and for them as new, relevant, thought-provoking Ask Us pay About Membership we go. documentaries.

I feel blessed to live in such an amazing community. I am grateful to live in such a beautiful place with such generous citizens. I will continue to do my part to ensure we can pass these gifts on to the next steven@moorepartners.ca generation. susan@moorepartners.ca You can read my blog at www.cammather.com

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Another exciting new program we will be offering is Reading Buddies.

The concept is simple: we will match children looking for some extra reading practice with an adult or teen volunteers that can tutor them one-on-one. So if you are a high-school student looking for volunteer hours, or simply a reading enthusiast looking for a rewarding 613 • 379 • 5958 opportunity where you can pass on your love of reading, register at our Amherstview or Napanee Branches. Parents of children who would benefit from a “reading buddy” can do so at the same to find their “big buddy” match.

Canadian Library Month and we will be celebrating by offering month long Evergreen Award voting at all eight branches. The Evergreen Award, a project of the Ontario Library Association and part of their highly praised Forest of Reading program, is Canada’s largest readers’ choice award. Our patrons, like public library patrons from all across Ontario, have the opportunity to read one or more of a diverse list of ten shortlisted Canadian titles and vote on their favourite. Last year we had a fantastic turn out of voters from across L&A and we’re hoping for an even greater uptake this year!

Another way we’ll be celebrating reading this fall is with a very special Bookworm presentation in partnership with (and to be held at) the Tamworth Legion.

Toronto based performer Corin Raymond will be bringing us his highly acclaimed one-man show.

It’s a story about a father reading to his son, growing up in a library, Spiderman, Ray Bradbury and meeting a Minotaur just outside of Wawa. A reviewer of the Victoria Fringe Festival said the following about the performance: “Corin Raymond’s charming and utterly engaging Bookworm is like being read to for an hour by a guy who’s totally passionate about the story he’s reading—which is exactly what Bookworm is. An ode to books and the people who love them, Raymond cleverly mixes everyday autobiography with an inherited love of what lies between the covers of his favourite books; and while there is a great surprise waiting in the final minutes of the show, it isn’t the crux of the show—Raymond’s own passion is.” This free event will take place on Sunday, November 23 at 2 p.m.

This is just a small taste of the many programs and events we’re offering this fall at your local libraries. Our mainstays, like oneon-one technology troubleshooting, computer classes, Puppy Tales and traditional story time, will remain but we also hope that we can engage you with these exciting new offerings. For a full list of library programs and events, visit our website at www.countylibrary.ca or stop by your local branch to pick up our Fall 2014 Programming Guide.

Catherine is the Manager of Library Services for the County of Lennox & Addington. Public Libraries. She can be reached at ccoles@lennox-addongton.on.ca

October is

October / November 2014 • THE SCOOP

9

L&A As the Spirits Museum & Archives Move Me

A

fter a 21-month renovation and expansion project that began in November 2012, the Lennox & Addington County Museum and Archives building is welcoming new and returning visitors from across the county and beyond.

A renovation of the old Jail in 1974 transformed the facility into the County Museum and Archives, making accessible archival and artifact collections of the Lennox and Addington Historical Society.

Over the years, the archival holdings of the Historical Society mushroomed to consume most of the second floor storage.

Now, forty years later, the addition of an expansive main floor enables the collection to be better-preserved in an environmentally controlled high density storage vault and provides accessible service in a bright, expanded reading room with digital micrographic equipment and computer access. The extensive renovation includes a new wing to the north of the existing building that houses the archives reading room, a loading dock, additional artifact storage space and a staff meeting room. The renovation also creates an impressive new front foyer, a multipurpose room for museum programming as well as many modifications to the existing museum exhibits.

This expanded space allows staff to more effectively display and tell the story of Lennox & Addington County. Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Great War, two themed exhibits are currently showcased at the museum, highlighting Lennox & Addington as it was during World War One. The Empire Needs Men exhibit displays World War One recruitment posters as well as soldier and nursing sister case vignettes paying tribute to the

Lennox and Addington volunteers who rallied to the call of the Empire.

Photographs of many of the soldiers and nursing sisters from Lennox and Addington, collected at that time, are poignant reminders of young lives lost in service to the Empire.

Also in recognition of the Great War centennial, the Fashions from the Home Front exhibit displays various dresses women wore during the period, and effectively illustrates how war changed traditional views of women’s roles in society, and as a result, their fashions.

Exhibits entitled Orval Madden As A Young Artist, Confederation Era Entrepreneurs and The Horse and Buggy Age are also currently showcased at the museum.

In addition, special and monthlythemed events are now taking place regularly at the Museum & Archives that are intended appeal to a variety of tastes and preferences.

Tuesday Night At The Museum, takes place on the third Tuesday of every month beginning at 7 p.m., and will feature a wide array of themed programming presented by experts on their respective subjects.

Museum Kids is another monthly feature at the Lennox & Addington County Museum & Archives brings you child-themed events that are fun for the whole family. Museum Kids is the first Saturday of every month from 10 am until noon.

The Museum & Archives regular business hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., excluding holidays. Admission prices are $3 for adults and $2.50 for seniors and students. Children under 12 are admitted free. Annual passes are also available for $25 per adult and $20 per senior. For more information about the facility, exhibits, and programming please visit www.CountyMuseum.ca or call 613.354.3027.

Story and photo by Sue Wade

T

echnically, the autumn equinox occurred this year on Monday, September 22 at 10:29 p.m. In our part of the world, where “technically” often plays second fiddle to “in reality,” Fall made its presence known to me several days earlier.

I awoke to a chilly “time-to-putthe-woodstove-on” morning: the frost icing the garden told me that there were enough beans in the freezer; the butter left overnight on the kitchen counter was too hard to spread; the new rosy colour of sumac leaves were popping through the drying grasses in the field, and later that morning in our mailbox, the delivery of the Fall catalogue from a stained glass supply house – my own personal indicator of the changing seasons. The timing of the catalogue’s arrival always coincides with the reality that outdoor art shows are done for the year. Indoor shows are looming on the horizon.

Orders for custom glass Christmas gifts are now arriving. Yup, Fall is already here.

So, I gave the studio its end of summer or should I say, Fall cleaning. Besides cleaning all the big stuff, the space still needed to be purged of the detritus from the last project of the summer – a lavender hanger – and returned to order ready for the next challenge. Putting the studio in order is a kind of closure for me, a ritual in which I reverently partake. It clears my mind of the piece that has just left the studio and turns fresh thoughts to the next piece of work on the board.

There was basic tidying stuff to do: redirecting torn pattern papers and bits of copper tape backing directly into the garbage can instead of wherever they happened to land while I was working; vacuuming the cutting board to rid it of the minute splinters of glass that would otherwise get my attention by jabbing me in the knuckles; picking hardened splashes of errant solder from my apron before it and the three million rags used during the construction of the lavender hanger, visit the laundry room and putting the remnants of the glass sheets I used in their racks.

All this is routine grunt work and I do it myself, however, I have support staff that gathers to help clean and put the tools away. I never see them, but I know they are there.

the boughten ones just don’t do the job.” This tool bears the marks of 34 years of prying open lead channels and pushing foil tape onto glass and having hot solder and caustic flux spilled on it, but even with its scars, it puts other lathkins I’ve since acquired to shame – I use that old wooden one still. My hope is that the lathkin will stay in one piece long enough to be used in every project that leaves the studio till the very last one. John would have approved of the just-finished lavender hanger.

It had an outside-the-box design: outside-the-box being a country where John firmly resided in and where I am so happy to walk.

Sweeping the cutting table and brushing clean the pliers that help break the glass conjures up the image of Lew – a family friend whose glass tools I inherited after his passing more than three decades ago. Lew loved glass art but I believe he felt more joy in acquiring the tools of the trade than in breaking glass; when his tool box finally became mine opening it felt like Christmas morning. Whenever I hold Lew’s running pliers to a piece of scored glass and hear that brisk, light “tch” sound – the signal that the break is just starting – it brings to mind Lew’s raspy, earthy voice saying, “That’s the way it’s done.”

My father hovers as my favourite glass cutter is cleaned and its empty reservoir filled with cutting oil. I bought this glass cutter for my dad in his retirement years when he expressed an interest in working with glass. The plan was that I would teach him how to use the cutter, but his time here was too short and his hands never pulled the cutter over a pattern line drawn on the glass. My hands do so in their place.

So many helpers are in my little studio as I welcome autumn and so much of their spirit lives in my artwork.

Sue Wade and her support staff work outside-the-box at Sageleaf Whimsy Studio, Tamworth. www.sageleafwhimsy.com

A man named John moseys in as I wipe clean my old wooden lathkin – a small fundamental tool for glass artists – Seniors Residence and places it in its handy spot on the workbench. John was the gentle man who taught me the basics of glass art.

He made a wooden lathkin for every www.adairplace.ca student in his class 613-379-5700 that year, “because

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World War one “the empire needs Men” exhibit currently on display. contributed photo.

10

THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

Country setting with country prices

462 Adair Road Tamworth, ON

Keeping Our Forests Healthy

By Susan Moore

E

xcitement is brewing over the 25th annual Trenton Woodlot Conference on November 21.

Forest health is big on the agenda.

For the last 24 years, this regional event has been a productive day designed to inform folks on woodlot/forest management and landowner programs, and offer an interactive afternoon field trip. The woodlot conference is a great chance to talk to forestry professionals and network with like-minded people.

A Woodland World: Bowing to Nature Diana Beresford-Kroeger is a scientist and renowned author specializing in classical botany and medical biochemistry. Her work, Arboretum America: A Philosophy of the Forest won the American National Arbor Day Foundation Media Award for exemplary educational work on trees and forests. Diana has written extensively and appeared on international radio and television, and is currently completing a film project, 10 Trees That Can Save the World (dianasjourney.com).

Diana will address Woodland Culture: it has been the basis of civilization across the world. Trees

and forests are the foundation of all life. The oxygen from a tree travels into the coronary artery of your heart. Take a breath, and thank a tree. Take another to care for this planet we all call home.

Shaping our Forests Peter Hynard is a registered professional forester with over 40 years of experience in forest management and planning. Peter had a long career with the Ministry of Natural Resources and now works as a forestry consultant in forest management /planning, and timber sales on large properties.

He will speak on the four historical forces that have shaped our forests today and how information can be gathered about them. Discover how geology, glacial-geology, natural disturbances, and man-made forces affect our forests.

Plus Speakers on

• Murray Marsh: Amazon of the Trent River Valley (Ewa Bednarczuk, ecologist and stewardship specialist at Lower Trent Conservation) • Small Scale Forest Operations, and Harvesting Sustainably for Firewood and Forest Health (David Smallwood, Quinte

Conservation forestry and field operations manager) • Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program (Robert Spence, Registered Professional Forester and MNR) • Local Woodworkers and Exhibitors will also be on deck A field trip to the Frink Maple tree in the fall. Photo by A. Saxe.

Outdoor Education Centre (www.fofc.ca), north of Admission is $30.00 and includes Belleville, will include guided walks a locally catered lunch plus bus on Forest History Interpretation; transport to the field trip. The Tree ID using Twigs and Bark; the conference is hosted by the Hastings Emerald Ash Borer; and Benthic and Stewardship Council, and supported Riparian Forest Health. by area Stewardship Councils, Conservation Authorities, and other The conference is on Friday, Nov. local groups. To Register by Nov. 7, 21 from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at please visit hastingsstewardship.ca the Knights of Columbus Hall, 57 or contact 613.391.9034 or Stella Crescent in Trenton, Ontario. info@hastingsstewardship.ca

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11

contemplating Books: Tactile or Digital?

By Angela Saxe & Barb Wilson

A

part from our mutual love of going on road-trips traveling the back roads in search of the unusual or unique, Barb and I share a strong passion for reading.

Long time friends have a pretty good idea what the other person likes to read, so we often suggest book titles to each other and we spend a fair amount of time discussing the book’s ideas or characters. Our opinions don’t always coincide but our book talks generate lots of laughs and help to pass the time.

Yet, like in any relationship – we do have our differences. I like to hold and read a “real” book made of paper. Barb likes to use her e-reader and prefers to buy e-books.

Our discussions are lively and we thought we could share some of the reasons each one of us has for holding on to her preferred choice.

I love the tactile experience of reading a physical book: the smooth texture of paper under my finger tips, the embossed lettering on the page of a good hard cover book, the vivid images of the cover. Books smell, whether it’s that crisp clean smell of a new book, or the musty old book you find in a second-hand bookshop. I love to run my fingers along the spines of my books as they stand in my book shelf. The weight of a book as it sits in my hands, even though at times I’m fearful of dropping a heavy book like The Goldfinch on my toes. I like to glance at my book on the table and know that I’m half way through or sadly, almost finished.

And I love book marks with their infinite variety of shapes, textures and colours. Reading a book is a sensuous experience, not just intellectual.

I like the idea that every book contains a history of the previous reader(s): coffee mug stains, a strand of hair, notes written in the margin, a corner of the page bent back, objects inserted and forgotten about, the name of the owner written on the inside cover or a message written to a person if it’s given as a gift and some books have the autograph of the author written on the title page. When I read a book that I’ve borrowed or have bought used, I feel connected to the previous reader because we know that their DNA is all over the book and I know that I’m leaving something of myself behind.

As Barb mentions there’s a strong social aspect to reading books and it begins early; children are taught very early in life “that books are our friends” and we have to treat them well. We exchange books with friends and share hours of conversation discussing them. We join book clubs and visit libraries.

And when someone holds a physical book in their hands while sitting in a waiting room, we learn something about that person and may even feel tempted to strike up a conversation.

12

There’s so much technology in our lives now that I love retreating to a favorite spot and holding a real book in my hands – and not have to worry whether I’ve charged the device. I love the surprise of discovering titles when I visit new and used book stores and the joy of finding a book that’s not available in print let alone on-line. I know that many believe that a home library is archaic, materialistic and that books just clutter up the house, but those books are visual reminders of who I was when I read them, how I changed after reading them and how much pleasure they once gave me.

B

est to say this from the onset – I like reading on-line much of the time. I do still like to read books for many of the reasons Angela describes but I’ve found having an e-reader very convenient and easy and another way to access good reads. When my son proudly gifted me with a Kobo reader for Christmas in 2011, I was determined to get over my reluctance and master its intricacies. Luckily for me, it turned out to be incredibly simple to use so I bought and downloaded my first e-book, Booker prize winner Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel. If I had picked up the physical book, I would have realized that it was a hefty tome which wouldn’t have discouraged me but most likely it would have landed heavily on my face while reading in bed. Or I would have lost my page and I certainly would have thought twice about carting it around with me in public. But with this light 21st century device I always had my read with me and I was able to sneak in a chapter or two wherever I was but not at stop lights or committee meetings although it was tempting.

And it’s not even necessary to be holding it – a simple tap turns pages.

Since my first read I have added about 40 more e-books to my library and I didn’t have to find more space in my already crowded bookshelves at home. When I acquired a mini iPad this year I started reading on this device, as well as being able to write this article on it. The switch has offered several improvements over the original reader: I can now lend my books to friends by lending them my Kobo reader, which contains my whole library, while I’m

THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

reading from the same library on my iPad. Imagine physically turning over about three boxes of books!

Also, because it’s backlit I no longer need a bedside lamp on as the back lighting can be adjusted. No more flashlights in the middle of the night trying to read and not disturb anyone else’s sleep. And the font can be tailor sized, unlike a book with difficult minuscule words.

An unfamiliar word? Tap it and up comes the definition. Quickly check out images, additional information on the same device. And all forty books fit in my purse.

results are interesting. Scientists are looking at how the brain navigates through the mental landscape of text, the differences in memory retention, and the ability to understand ideas, the impact of attitudes towards reading as well as levels of fatigue from reading on a screen versus paper. If you’re interested the article: The Reading Brain in the Digital Age: The Science of Paper versus Screens

by Ferris Jabr (Scientific America, April 11, 2013) discusses some of the studies. Google it or borrow a copy of the actual magazine.

Yes, I bought those e-books, mostly literary novels, biographies and natural histories for a fraction of the cost of a tangible book (about $15 for current e-books) and I have been able to acquire some of them “hot off the press”, or whatever the new term would be. In fact, I have even bought e-books in the middle of the night! But, if there is no rush and I’m not interested in adding the book to my e-library, I can download books from the Public Library easier than having to go there to pick them up which is extremely helpful if you are far from the actual Library building and it’s less expensive.

Book Shop

I do still buy books, but mostly large format coffee table style books or reference books like cookbooks or field guides. And I acknowledge some of the drawbacks Angela points out so I love reading the books she lends me or I get out of the library, but for sheer convenience and accessibility I’m going digital!

We may continue to banter back and forth about our choices and as Barb says, she still picks up a book to read but we’re both a little sad when we hear others say, that they’ve sold all their books and now only read on a device. Once libraries of books and music filled our homes and now all that learning and pleasure is found on a cloud somewhere accessible only through electronic devices. Others will weigh into the discussion with the opinion that it really doesn’t matter how you read, what’s important is that everyone continues to read whether for information or just for pleasure.

We definitely agree with that!

There are many studies exploring the differences between tactile reading from a physical book as opposed to reading on a digital device and the

Quality second hand books Fri-Sat-Sun: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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Sunday, October 19 @ 2 p.m.

Free event – all are welcome!

Light refreshments will be served.

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HOUSE TO HOME SERVICE

A Summer of Firsts

By Leah Birmingham

A

s autumn begins we are busy winding down from yet another exciting year at the Sandy Pines Wilderness Centre.

Our work with wildlife follows the changing seasons mimicking our patients’ experiences in the natural world. In the spring, the wildlife centre is frenetically busy, filled with the excitement of new interns, staff and volunteers who hear tales of how crazy the next few months will be, but haven’t yet experienced it. For the experienced volunteers and staff who have previously survived the spring /summer season at Sandy Pines, there is a different level of excitement. We know it will fly by in a whirlwind of new challenges and patients, but we don’t know exactly what new scenarios we will be encountering.

There were many “first” experiences during the past busy season: patients such as the little Black Bear cub were first time events (see The Scoop August/September 2014 issue). I can now report that he is doing well at the Bear With Us Sanctuary and everyone is still hopeful that he will continue to improve. He has made friends with a feral kitten that entered his outdoor enclosure but he still has a few deficits that prevent him from living with the rest of the cubs. The other cubs are in a large enclosure with a pond and the caretakers at Bear With US have security worries – his neurological deficits might put him in danger if left unattended around the pond.

Some of the other firsts were simply the satisfaction of releasing species that have been notoriously difficult to rehabilitate: the Belted Kingfisher with a broken wing, or the adult Pileated Woodpecker with severe head trauma, were both released successfully this summer. The release of a fledgling Pileated Woodpecker also with a head trauma was very exciting because it confirmed what an excellent team we had helping wildlife this year! We also raised a juvenile Green Heron that had been found orphaned and released him as a much stronger feisty young

bird ready to face life’s challenges.

This are just a few of the over 2200 patients we cared for this year.

Unlike most years when our winter months were relatively quiet, this past winter Mother Nature offered some specific challenges to our wildlife, and in turn to us wildlife caretakers. The complete freezing of the Great Lakes left thousands of water birds starving and without habitat. The extended winter meant that migrating birds arrived to find that they had no food and nowhere to go. The lucky ones were found by caring individuals and brought to SPWC, the unlucky birds faced a long cold death. This presented us with a unique situation: we did not have the time to properly prepare for the spring influx of juvenile and neonate orphans while at the same time as trying to acclimatize our overwintering patients to life in the outdoors. If this happens again we will be much more capable of handling the excessive patient load with the additional space in our new hospital.

Last winter many Snowy Owls found their way south in search of food. One in particular that we had been caring for was with us later than we anticipated and in order to give him the best chance after release we needed to find a way to get him to the far North where most of the Snowy Owls would have already returned. Not an easy task, but one that would be best done by plane. Pilots N Paws Canada is an organization that links pilots with animals in need of transportation.

Most of their work is with dogs, but they also assist wildlife centres to transport their patients to the north.

The volunteer pilot was very excited to transport this majestic owl up to the North and then to release him. He watched the snowy owl take flight in his natural landscape for the first time in many months.

There is something very cathartic about bird releases, witnessing an animal that was forlorn, suffering and lost without its full faculties regain strength and fly away is a joyous moment.

This summer we had excellent results helping many birds with broken wings and legs regain flight.

Most birds are brought in with fractured wings which grounds them, thus making it easier for humans to capture them. This happens for a variety of reasons, most often involving human activities: they are hit by vehicles, shot by a bullet or arrow, they

fly into windows (that project the image of their surroundings making it hard for a bird to notice the solid surface as they only see the Snowy owl release. Photo by Christy Nielson. reflection), or they are attacked by roaming cats. However for their diet, rolled it into tiny balls it happens, it is one of the most and determined how much was serious injuries sustained by birds enough for each bird! because depending on where the break is, they may never fly again.

So as I reflect on the past season Time is of the essence, the longer I feel a great sense of pride in our the bone sits out of place, the harder interns who were hired during the it is to repair. Mourning doves, gulls, winter months. We tried to prepare and hawks – we’ve repaired and them: the busy season is really successfully rehabilitated many difficult and they had to be prepared wings this summer even repairing to be overwhelmed by the relentless some fractures previously thought demand on their time from phone to be hopeless. calls and patients. The very early morning and overnight feedings It left me pondering what made the require stamina. Emotions run difference, why did they survive high and low but and as a team we this year? The answer is hard to all get through it. The interns who pin down. I do believe the public’s complete their time commitment greater knowledge of SPWC is one and succeed feel a terrific sense of reason. Rescuers are finding our accomplishment, and they have a contact number quicker, and in great reference on their resumes turn getting the injured animal to as they attempt to establish their us faster. This is key to healing, but career in the animal sciences. They so is the dedication and patience will move on and follow their own of the caretakers. We had several path, much as our patients do. interns that were intrigued by Meanwhile SPWC’s permanent birds and they did a fantastic job staff and their volunteers continue looking out for those patients. Many to work during the calm winter of these birds were not eating and months preparing for next year’s required a tube to be placed in challenges, training another set of their crop (a part of avian anatomy interns and volunteers and trying to where birds store food) 4-5 times improve our ability to heal broken a day delivering a meal suitable wings for our captive patients who to their particular needs. “Gavage yearn for their freedom. feeding” as it is called, takes time to learn, and some people are simply Leah is the Assistant Director at better at the task than others. The SPWC. As a Registered Veterinary stress level increases if the bird has Technician, she helps manage talons, or is small and the simple patient care and treatment, as mishandling of them could lead to a well as coordinating a successful heart attack. Placing the tube down Internship Program, handling media the wrong hole could kill the bird relations, and assisting Sue Meech by drowning it. Long story short, with management of the staff and the success of these patients was operations of SPWC. due to a job well done by our interns.

Napanee District Community Foundation They even pulled two Nighthawks through; those birds only eat while flying, and never eat in captivity.

They had to be hand fed for their 47 Dundas Street East, Napanee, ON K7R 1H7 whole stay and the interns diligently Ph: 613-354-7333 info@ndcf.ca F: 613-354-4613 www.ndcf.ca made the recipe

October / November 2014 • THE SCOOP

13

A Natural View Getting Ready To hunker Down Story and photo by Terry Sprague

T

here was a skin of ice on our car windshield, and frost on the grass around our campsite at Ferris Provincial Park on September 14th. Had fall started already? By noon, we were back to T-shirts and shorts as twentyeight of us enjoyed an interpretive hike on one of the Park’s major trails. However, the sight of frost on the freshly mowed grass around our travel trailer lingered in my mind. It was time to think about picking those last tomatoes and commencing the fall chores once we returned home.

It is always a crisp November day after a good freeze when I fire up the recycling mower and mulch the accumulation of leaves on our lawn.

That is when the leaves pulverize the best, with one pass of the mower reducing the thick accumulation to a fine, powdery dust. Only then, do I winterize the lawn mower, change the oil, sharpen the blade and give the mower a good cleaning with the air compressor before putting it to bed for the winter. Once the two mowers and the rotary brush mower have been cleaned and sharpened, and the travel trailer is winterized, and the snow blower is mounted on the garden tractor, do we tackle the gigantic pile of pruned tree branches and put them through the wood chipper. Winterization of our lawn and garden equipment signals the completion of the fall tasks. We are ready. Bring on the cold weather and snow! According to the latest predictions, this winter will be a lot like last winter.

Preparing for winter is something my father was always very organized at, and he put our farm machinery to bed with the same love and care as I give my lawn mowers. Nothing, not even drag harrows, was permitted to remain outside in the winter. Machinery was stored in the shed with those devoted to harvesting stored at the back of the building, and spring tillage equipment close to the door.

This exercise was so routine every year, it was as if my father had been programmed to do this, almost instinctively, once there was a chill in the air.

It is genetic programming or instinct that causes mammals to prepare for winter in much the same way. I haven’t seen our chipmunks for several days, so I am guessing that they have hunkered down in the remains of an old barn foundation, where I saw them come out of several times this summer.

The chipmunk is often cited as an example of a hibernator, but how many animals truly hibernate? Not many, I dare say, and certainly not the chipmunk, if we want to get technical about it. True hibernators enter a prolonged state of torpor during the long winter months, when metabolism slows down, and there are very few mammals that do that non-stop through the entire winter. It’s too dangerous

14

to sleep your life away in winter when reserves are low, with no replenishment. Even the groundhog has been known to come out of its burrow and look around.

However, the chipmunk does go under a remarkable transformation at this time of the year during its time underground. This perky little mammal whose heart races at a brisk 350 beats per minute, drops into a whisper mode, its heart beating at a modest four beats per minute, barely enough for us to claim it is alive. The body temperature drops from 36 degrees to just three degrees. But, every two weeks or so, it wakes up to have a snack of its cached food supply.

It will also take advantage of the opportunity to urinate in a special chamber reserved for that occasion.

I am sure many of us would be happy if we could manage an entire night without getting up to urinate, never mind two weeks!

Once April arrives, it springs to life with renewed vigour. Friends John and Janet Foster of the Tweed area, whose nature films I practically grew up on, feed up to a half dozen chipmunks at their back door.

During a barbeque at their home a few years ago, there were no fewer than three at one time, perched on their haunches on the picnic table, not more than a few inches from my elbow. It was fall and we spent much of the day providing them with peanuts to cache away in their burrows for winter.

What is amazing is that mammals don’t have to check their calendar to prepare for winter. It is second nature to them. It’s all triggered by the photo period, when days become shorter and there are signs of fall. Survival kicks in, and each species is different in how it prepares for winter. Some, we might think, are doomed when you look at the wood frog who dawdles until it freezes solid. Its liver produces glucose which is circulated through the body like antifreeze, protecting the vital organs. It allows itself to freeze completely through, gradually thawing in the spring and continuing on its way as though nothing happened.

Others, like my late father, are more organized. They put on layers of fat, and work nonstop salting away an adequate food supply, and seeking out shelter where they can be spared from the driving, cutting winds of winter. Come spring, they

the wood frog survives winter by allowing itself to freeze solid. realize that their efforts have paid off in handsome dividends, for they are alive. And as animals that just live from day to day and taking what Nature dishes out, they probably don’t have a clue as to why their system is suddenly kicking into this preparation mode, for surely they can’t reason that a season known as winter is coming. On the farm, we knew that winter was on its way and that certain preparations had to be made to survive it intact, and prepare for spring. For animals, they don’t question their instinct – they just go ahead and do it, as their ancestors before them have done for thousands of years.

Many of us worry unnecessarily about whether birds, insects, mammals and reptiles will make it through the winter. However, thousands of years of evolutionary fine tuning has resulted in each species perfecting its ability to make it, no matter what Nature throws at it. And if they feel the need to have one last kick at the can before the snow flies, more power to them. It would also seem that this recrudescence – these encore stage performances – end up being nothing more than entertainment for us, and only a minor interruption in the normal lives of animals that share our living space. Mostly, they seem to get back on track and continue their preparations for the long winter ahead.

Sometimes though, unusually warm weather at this time of the year can fool Mother Nature. Sprigs of lilacs in bloom, hesitantly and unsure of For more information on birding and unseasonable temperatures may nature and guided hikes, check out occur as late as early November, if the NatureStuff website at conditions should trigger them into www.naturestuff.net. Terry Sprague action. I once came upon a wild lives in Prince Edward County and apple tree that was awash in apple is self-employed as a professional blossoms! It was the first week of interpretive naturalist.

November! Curious as to how this sudden urge to burst into bloom might affect the apple crop Tamworth-Erinsville GrassRoots Growers invite you to a next year, I presentation by local farmer John Wise of Wiseacres. paid close attention to the tree the following year.

That spring, John will talk about growing it once again strawberries, raspberries, asparagus, burst into and tree fruits. He will also discuss blossom, and sustainability in terms of plant/ produced a animal interdependence. splendid crop • Seed Exchange • of wild apples.

Autumnal recrudescence, we call it.

An Organic Farm Ecosystem

Tues. November 4th at 7:00 pm Christ Church, Tamworth 29 Concession St. N.

All are welcome. Free admittance. Refreshments to follow presentation.

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THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

For more information contact us at: tegrassrootsgrowers@gmail.com Or check our website at: www.te-grassrootsgrowers.weebly.com Participants are kindly requested not to wear scented products at GRG events.

In Search of the Perfect Tomato

By Mary Jo Field

I

s it wrong to be so obsessed with growing the perfect tomato?

After all, the importance of tomatoes is undeniable. They are the second most-consumed vegetable around the world, after potatoes. (I know, I know, the tomato is a fruit. But it is used as a vegetable and even the U.S. Supreme Court has decreed it a vegetable for import/export duty purposes). They can be eaten raw, cooked or dried, as a vegetable on their own or as an ingredient in sauces, soups, stews and pizza or almost any savoury dish you can think of. I think there are even recipes for chocolate cake using the humble tomato.

Written accounts of tomato cultivation and consumption indicate that although it is native to South America, it was first cultivated in Mexico. In the 16th century the Spanish conquerors took the tomato to Spain where it was used for decorative purposes, as it was thought to be poisonous.

From there it went to the Middle East, Italy and the rest of Europe.

Thomas Jefferson encountered tomatoes on a trip to Europe and sent seeds back to Monticello, his famous garden in Virginia. He was reported to be an early proponent of eating tomatoes. So, as a tomato aficionado, I am in good company.

With hundreds, possibly thousands, of named tomato cultivars to choose from, how does one decide on the perfect or even the best? Perhaps we should start with some basics.

There is a great deal of controversy over heirloom vs. hybrid. Heirloom tomatoes, also called heritage, are self-pollinating and come true from seed. Hybrids are pollinated by hand using two genetically different plants, the purpose being to obtain a plant with the best qualities of both parents. There are pros and cons for each, depending on your point of view. The advantages of heirloom tomatoes include better flavour, stability of seed (meaning you can save your own seed), disease resistance, wide choice of varieties and protection of genetic diversity; disadvantages are inconsistency in appearance and lack of productivity.

The advantages of hybrids are

consistency of appearance, productivity, disease resistance, the ability to travel long distances, long shelf life, and the fact that in some varieties all the fruit ripens at the same time; the disadvantages are less flavour, instability of seed, and cost of seed since each generation is produced by hand pollination, mostly in China and India. (I know I have said disease resistance is an advantage of both heirloom and hybrid tomatoes, but each type has cultivars that are supposedly resistant to certain diseases.)

Being a home gardener, I have no interest in growing tomatoes that are bred for thick skins and the ability to travel long distances.

Also, variety in appearance and taste is a pleasing to my eye and palate, so I like to grow varieties that produce different colours , sizes, shapes, and tastes. Flavour is the number one consideration in tomatoes to be eaten on their own or for tomato soup or sauce.

Definitely, I come down on the side of heirlooms. However, due to the reputation of hybrids for greater resistance to blight and other diseases and for productivity, I usually plant a couple of hybrid Roma-type tomatoes to make sure there are enough for sauce making.

Interestingly, this summer, which was decidedly unkind to tomatoes, with more than sufficient rain, less than sufficient sun and consistently unseasonably cool nights, it was the hybrids that gave up the ghost.

Every one of my 32 tomato plants had yucky, brown leaves at the bottom of the stem by August 1st, but all except the Roma hybrids bravely soldiered on, producing more leaves and good fruit set until frost. The hybrids completely packed it in by early August, leaving only small, wizened fruit on the vine.

Another note on flavour. Because long cooking largely destroys the volatile flavour compounds in tomatoes and since most of the taste in chili sauce and chutneys comes from the spices, vinegar, onions and other additions, in September I usually buy some hybrid beefsteak-type for making that type of preserve. This year I bought a half-bushel from a local market. They were large, beautifully

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red, round, perfect-looking specimens. But the similarity to good tomatoes ended there.

Hard, mealy and tasteless are words that come to mind.

Plus I lost roughly a third of each tomato by having to cut out the huge core. Cool nights and lack of sun could have contributed to their mealiness and lack of flavour. Perhaps they were refrigerated in storage, which would have destroyed whatever flavour was there originally and hurt the texture, but there was just no comparison to my heritage tomatoes.

To be fair, there is a place for Mary Jo’s tomatoes. photo by David Field. hybrid, commercially grown tomatoes. Where would we be without ketchup? And also to be south and west windowsills in my fair, how do you supply the world house are covered with trays of with the second most – consumed seedling tomatoes. Most go to the vegetable without commercialGrassRoots Growers’ plant sale scale growing, which requires held in May on the Saturday after tomatoes that will stand up to the Victoria Day long weekend. machine harvesting? But I do not And every September, my dining need to eat them or grow them. room table is covered with the last Lucky me to live where we do, with picking, which occurs on the day enough room to grow my own and before our first frost is predicted. choices galore to pick from.

You can see the result in the picture below. A few days of canning, So how do I pick which tomatoes roasting and preserving await, so to grow? It started with seed they can join the tomatoes already catalogues, each January seeing on my shelves and in the freezer. My me pouring over descriptions of family and friends and I will enjoy colourful and exotic varieties. them all winter.

After about eight years of trying several new varieties each season, Speaking of the GrassRoots I thought I had narrowed it down Growers, our first event of the fall to my favourite dozen. I needed season will be held on November one each of red, yellow and orange 4, 2014. John Wise of Wiseacres, a mini or cherry tomatoes, two each local organic farm, will talk about of different red, yellow and orange growing strawberries, raspberries, beefsteak-types, and several asparagus and tree fruits, and on different paste varieties, each the sustainability of plant / animal chosen for flavour, staggered time of interdependence. Watch for posters maturing, appearance, productivity and look on our website for further and resistance to cracking. Then information. Please note this event my friend Susie introduced me to will be held at a different location.

“Kellogg’s Breakfast”, which she Due to the popularity of our recent had chosen because it was such a events, attendance has grown to great name. Who knew a tomato exceed the legal occupancy limit of chosen for its name would become the Tamworth library, so we have a favourite because of its sweet had to find new locations. The John taste? Last September, while Wise presentation will be held at attending an apple festival on Salt Christ Church, 26 Concession St. N. Spring Island, I encountered a seller in Tamworth. of organic heirloom tomato seeds and bought five different kinds.

Tamworth/Erinsville GrassRoots Two were rare paste tomatoes that Growers is a community-based performed fantastically this year, group. Our mission is to encourage producing large bright red solid interest in local and organic fruit for tomato sauce. A third was gardening for both the home garden called “Early Large Red”, a rather and the market garden; to raise unromantic but hopeful (and awareness of issues surrounding hopefully descriptive) name, which food production; to improve our turned out to be a favourite of a practical knowledge of all aspects of friend to whom I gave a seedling, plant life; and to provide networking because it was tasty yet not so juicy opportunities for gardeners. We that it made her sandwiches soggy. welcome new members. Visit our I think I have to accept that when it website at comes to tomatoes, beauty is in the te-grassrootsgrowers.weebly.com eye and the mouth of the beholder, and that there will always be another different one to try. I am already anticipating next year’s growing season and hoping for more tomatofriendly weather.

Every spring, the

http://knrmackenzie3.wix.com/votedebthompson October / November 2014 • THE SCOOP

15

Autumn in Yarker Story and photo by Lena Koch

A

hazy sun appears low in the east pushing aside the fog that is hovering over the river, working hard to warm up the grass which has been painted a frosty white from the cold night.

Autumn’s spirit has crept into Yarker overnight and summer has faded away allowing fall to enter.

The ever-changing time of seasons comes once again.

anymore, is still capable of warming up the fields and forest.

Balmy summer nights are gone leaving us with cool damp frosty nights. Trees begin to change their leafy dresses. Almost over night, the birch trees are now dressed in bright yellow, the maple in a luscious red, the oak in a fantastic brown and the poplar has assumed a startling silver shade. The world has transformed into a motley-coloured picture that only nature can paint.

Robins, black birds, Canada geese, swallows, finches and many other migrating birds accumulate in the air. One can hear the familiar honk of Canadian geese as they prepare to fly south. A couple of morning doves are busy at the bird feeder. Blue Jays try to chase them away; however, the doves are rather brave and stand their ground consuming muchneeded calories for their flight to warmer climates. Meanwhile a cardinal’s beautiful call can still be heard coming from a tall pine tree.

Butterflies are still greeting new flowers many of which appear in the dying days of the summer season: asters, golden rod, Echinacea, chrysanthemum and thistles, all in varying shades of colour, their heads following the warm rays of the sun, who has found her way through the morning fog to warm up the earth.

It’s a wonderful fall day that only southern Ontario can create.

The cool haze has gone and a clear blue sky lies beneath the few clouds that are still left from the fog. The sun, which is not as high in the sky

Neighbours go out to enjoy a walk, to stroll, hike or run on the trail that runs through the enchanted world of brilliant fall colours. In spite of the peaceful surrounding, there is a real bustle of activity in the trees and undergrowth of the forest.

Animals are preparing for winter.

The hummingbirds are gone and the sugar water in the glass container now feeds wasps and ants. A deer with her two fawns watches along the river bank as beavers teach their young how to prepare their home for the long winter. Bear scat reveals their presence; they have been in the area searching for food, fatting up before retreating into their dens for their long winter sleep.

Raccoons also teach their offspring

how to survive the long winter but since they are scavengers and don’t sleep all winter in our climate, they are not afraid to come looking through the small village for food left in garbage containers. It’s important to have containers with locks because those little hunters are smart enough to open doors or containers that aren’t locked.

thin during the summer, but now its fur is shinier and it appears to be putting on winter fat. He is spending more time hunting and advances deeper into the forest looking to catch a cottontail rabbit or scurrying mice. This is the time of year when predators are active and their prey need to be alert to avoid ending up in the fox’s belly.

Squirrels and chipmunks are busy collecting nuts, acorns and pine cones and storing them in a variety of holes both in the ground and in trees. Sometimes, they like to use someone’s attic if they can find a hole big enough to slip through.

As cute as those critters are, the thought of having them in the house is not a pleasing one.

The odour of decaying leaves fills the crisp air. The autumn sun sets early filling the western sky with spectacular colours and the nights cool down quickly. Nature spins her wheel as we leave behind summer and anticipate the coming winter. I feel blessed to be able to live in such a pleasant and peaceful area full of miracles.

It is a busy life and nature is full of wonder. Yarker’s resident fox was

Autumn in Yarker has arrived!

Tree PlanTing?

FUNDING SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE

Planting trees on your property could help fight climate change. It could also increase wild life habitat and water conservation. You can receive funding assistance.

Trees Ontario is working with its tree planting partners across the province to deliver the Ontario government’s

If you have at least 2.5 acres of productive land, you could qualify.

Call or visit us at: Trees Ontario 416.646.1193 www.treesontario.ca/programs/#50MILL

50 Million Tree Program.

Paid for, in part, by the Government of Ontario

16

THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

cheryl Spencer Raspberry Ridge Farms

By Christine Oastler

A

t the age of twelve Cheryl Spencer went to horse camp and loved it so much that she dreamed of one day running her own camp. Born in Toronto and growing up in Ottawa, Cheryl bought her first horse with babysitting money. In 1991 Cheryl’s dreams came true. Tucked in between Centerville and Newburgh on Hunt Road, is Raspberry Ridge Farms – a real working horse farm!

Cheryl and her certified trainers work with riders from age four and a half to seventy. As Cheryl happily explains, the energy and enthusiasm students have is remarkable, “The first time you get a child to turn or trot on a pony is very exciting.” Working with riders from all skill levels is a great passion of Cheryl’s, “We have both young and adult students who have a variety of backgrounds, from brain injuries, autism and emotional difficulties.”

Having seen first hand how students benefit from contact with horses, Raspberry Ridge Farms offers therapeutic riding lessons.

Driving by Raspberry Ridge Farms you can see the farmhouse from the road. Once inside the farmhouse there seems to be a cat in each room, but at night, during the weeks and

weekends when the riding camp is operating, the five guest rooms are filled with sleeping riders. Campers enjoy home cooked meals, movies at night and the chance to get to know other campers. With campers from as far away as Holland, Australia, China and Jordan there are weeks when it is like an international festival.

With an indoor riding arena the leaves may have changed colours or the snow may be falling but the students can ride all year round.

Over the years horses have been named by campers and riders of all ages, from Splash, a pony with a big splotch of white paint over his rump, to Gandalf and Arwen from a Lord of the Rings fan and Torrent and Onxy the horses have interesting naming stories.

Horse riding and technology might seem like an odd mix but Cheryl has used her skills in both areas to create something beautiful. To create her website Cheryl took web design courses. With over six hundred pages in her website she has found that young campers are so interested in learning to ride they use Google to find her site themselves.

Filled with information about her farm and types of horses and even colouring pages Cheryl explains that, “Eighty percent of her contact with new clients comes from email. Often these aspiring young riders print out her webpage and give it to their parents.” Having first hand experience as a young girl who dreamed of one day owning her own horse, Cheryl knows that the birthday parties or camps at Raspberry Ridge Farms, “let’s them see how much work goes into having their very own horse.”

Cheryl and Raspberry Ridge Farms have a lot to celebrate. This fall Cheryl got married and she’s looking forward to continuing sharing her love of horses.

You can view Cheryl’s website at She uses Facebook to post photos of www.raspberryridge.com camp events and families use email and Facebook to CONSULT • DESIGN • SUPPLY • INSTALL • MAINTAIN stay connected Residential - Commercial - Life Safety over the camp weeks and over the years. “I can meet people from around the world and campers Colebrook, ON 613-377-1002 develop life long mail@crintec.com www.crintec.com friendships.”

STANDBY GENERATOR SPECIALISTS

Crintec Ltd.

Robert Storring

Broker

OFFICES 44 Industrial Blvd.

Napanee 14 Concession St. Tamworth

CONTACT Direct: Office: Toll Free:

613-379-2903 613-354-4347 1 866-233-2062 storring@kos.net robert.storring@century21.ca

BELOW REPLACEMENT COST! Family home near Centreville is about 1800 sq. ft.

Main floor family room, separate dining room, master with ensuite bath. Doors to large back deck, 1 ½ car garage & full unspoiled basement.

Terrific value. $239,900 MLS 14608052 FURTHER REDUCED Beaver Lake home is not large so not a lot of maintenance. Open living room and kitchen areas, master bedroom, smaller room could be 2nd bedroom, big laundry room and very nicely done 3 season room on the water’s edge. Wood stove to keep it cozy, on demand hot water and even the fishing boat is included. Don’t miss out! $199,500 MLS 14603253 WATERFRONT HOME Beaver Lake home offers spectacular southern views, good swimming, fishing & boating. Features open concept dining/living rm so have full view of lake, well appointed kitchen, 3 bdrms & bath on main level. Lower level is all finished with walkout from huge rec rm, den or extra bdrm and bathrm. Deck on upper level and patio lower level.

Separate workshop building has ample room for all the toys.

See www.beaverlakewaterfronthome.com

$369,900

MLS 14608050

NAPANEE STARTER 3 bedrooms home is walking distance to stores, parks & river. Features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, kitchen with patio doors to extra large back yard, separate dining room & living room with gas fireplace. Dead end street so not much traffic. If looking for a cheaper starter home this may be it. $149,900 MLS 14606954 October / November 2014 • THE SCOOP

17

Meet Bill See

By Barry Lovegrove

B

ill lives just south of Arden on a beautiful lakeside property that has been in his family for over one hundred and fifty years.

Bill retired from his job that he held for thirty five years with the MNR (Ministry of Natural Resources) a few years back. His office walls are covered with trophy fish that he has caught and photos of the game he had hunted over the years. This was a very timely visit as the fall hunting season is getting closer and Bill teaches both The Ontario’s Hunter Education and Canadian Firearms Safety Courses. During our conversation, he gave me some basic information about the courses he gives.

“It is the hunter’s responsibility to know the rules and regulations of hunting, such as starting times in the morning and evening, how to carry and fire firearms correctly, remembering that safety always come first. It probably is a good idea to look through the course books that you used when taking the courses and if you have access to a computer, check online for any changes that may have been made before going hunting.”

Hunter Education and Canadian Firearms Safety Course. That will allow them to apply for their apprentice card. Once they have it they can go hunting with a licensed hunter. One Gun. One License.

Then at the age of fifteen they can apply for a minor’s permit to carry a firearm.”

But to be sure that you get this right I would suggest that you check these two websites to be safe. They are as follows: Hunter Apprenticeship Safety Program, at www.ohep.net/ Programs.cfm?ID=1 and the Important Information and Instructions for Minors (under 18yrs) at www.guidetogame.com/ archives/20170.

If any potential hunters would like to take these courses or get their children into hunting the best way would be to get a hold of Bill at 613.335.2786 and register for the courses. He holds them once a month depending on the demand.

I copied this from the Canadian Firearms Safety Course Student Handbook as a reminder to all

We then got talking about apprentice hunters. He said, “There are a lot of young people who attend the courses these days. You have to be at least twelve years old, take the courses and pass both The Ontario’s

18

THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

hunters both young and mature.

See that the firearm is unloaded.

“Almost all firearm accidents can be prevented by following some basic safety rules”. The Vital Four ACTS of Firearm Safety are: Assume every firearm is loaded.

Control the muzzle direction at all times.

Trigger finger must be kept off the trigger and out of the trigger guard.

PROVE it safe: Point the firearm in the safest available direction.

Remove all cartridges.

Observe the chamber.

Verify the feed path.

Examine the bore.

Lessons Learned

The Sky’s The Limit

By Blair McDonald

By Barry Lovegrove

E

very year around this time, I get asked, as I am sure many of us do: Are you glad that the summer is over? The answer has always been a quick and firm – No. Not, as many assume, because I teach for a living, but because as I said recently, half-jokingly: Because it’s nice out, […] and because it means tennis is over for the year.

It’s by no means, a deep answer (I’m not going to wax poetically about the sun and the sand, listening to Don Henley, family and friends etc.), but it’s the truth. And being so, with new seasons come new things to focus on.

At the start of every school term, once the requirements for the course and term have been established, I always try out some icebreaker exercises to get students thinking about their motivations for school and getting to know some of their classmates. One of my favourite activities is called: What are your limits? It’s a simple exercise where I ask students to respond to an interesting claim made by Tony Robbins in his book Giant Steps. He says, “Limited experiences create a limited life. If you desire enrichment and growth, you must increase your reference by pursuing ideas and experiences that wouldn’t be a part of your life if you didn’t consciously seek them out.

Rarely will a great idea interrupt you; you must actively seek it out.”

After reading that quote, I have the students answer the following question: What’s something you’ve never even considered doing before

WAYLEN CAR WASH

that would open up whole new worlds to you? In other words, what is something that is completely out of your comfort zone, that, if explored, could change how you view things.

While some struggle with the question, some have a lot of fun with it. For the more seriousminded, Type-A student, answers are on the tamer side, “Live for a month without a schedule,” shy students tend to reference traditional phobias such as public speaking or performing in public (“The Voice is not on their bucket list.”) and adventurers tend to push the envelope even more (“sailing around the world” or “snowboarding naked”).

I’ve noticed that over the past few years, the most popular answer always has to do with travelling to a foreign culture either by oneself or without the language skills to get by (although, I should add, this year, I had a student for the first time say that they wanted to read an entire book, to which the class howled with laughter). What I enjoy about this exercise, is that it pushes students to imagine a scenario that is completely out of their comfort zone. In doing so, it reminds us that while the track we are on might be the best fit for us, there is always another door there just waiting to be opened. Once you see it, that’s when you learn that as we move through life the game may change but you can change it too.

THE BEAVER LAKE SWIM PROGRAM would like to thank the following: Napanee District Community Foundation Tamworth and District Lion’s Club Stone Mills Township Private Donors and Volunteers

T

amworth Public Library now has an astronomical telescope available to view the stars and planets in our universe. This was made possible thanks to funds raised by the Tamworth Legion and the TECDC (Tamworth and Erinsville Community Development Committee). The telescope was presented and demonstrated by Terence Dickinson, a well-known astronomer, a short while ago in the Tamworth library. Some rules will apply to when borrowing the telescope, so contact the Library 613.379.3082 beforehand.

As this telescope belongs to members of the Tamworth Library, Lennox&Addington County libraries

have purchased a second telescope that will be available to the seven remaining libraries in L&A. If you are interested in borrowing that telescope you can contact the Napanee Library at 613.354.2525.

Remember that rules will apply prior to taking out one of the telescopes so again phone ahead.

One thing to keep in mind before going out on an adventure to look up into the heavens is to do a bit of research first. Terence Dickinson has books available in the libraries and he also publishes “SkyNews” an excellent magazine that will keep you up to date on what to look for in the skies throughout the seasons.

terry Dickinson demonstrates the new telescope.

“a “afresh freshvision vision

for Stone Mills”

for Stone Mills”

Eric DePoe for Stone Mills Council

Eric DePoe 613-377-1856 for Stone Mills Council ericdepoestonemills@gmail.com Facebook: Eric613-377-1856 DePoe for Stone Mills Council

SEE YOU IN 2015!

ericdepoestonemills@gmail.com

THE CLOYNE AND DISTRICT

Facebook: Eric DePoe for Stone Mills Council

HISTORICAL SOCIETY meet every month on the third Monday at

WASH ALL YOUR RECREATIONAL VEHICLES HERE Boats, Trailers, Campers, 4-Wheelers & more!

the Barrie Community Hall in Cloyne. The hall is located on highway 41 across from the Cloyne post office. We meet at 1 o’clock and feature speakers and discussions relating to local history.

During the summer we proudly operate the Cloyne Pioneer Museum and Archives with volunteers and the help of young people on student grants.

Our catchment area is North to Denbigh, South to Kaladar, East to Harlowe and West to Flinton.

Everyone is welcome to our meetings and activities.

CTY RD 4, TAMWORTH

Join us and participate in “Preserving the

DAVE & BARB WAY

For more information or photos,

Past for the Future”.

please go to our website. cloynepioneermuseum.on.ca

October / November 2014 • THE SCOOP

19

Confidence is Key

Rain or Shine

By Rachel Bell, Grade 12 student Sydenham HS

By Grace Smith

H

S

ave you ever found yourself feeling as if your selfconfidence was at the end of a long road, and you’re running to get to it? You notice others around you who have no problem reaching it; seemingly glowing with self-esteem, while you struggle with it each day. If you have by chance felt this way, you are not alone. In fact, I’d like to take a chance to say that everyone around you – even those confident kids you always see at school all have their insecurities. It’s how you deal with these insecurities which will make or break you.

Self assurance is certainly not something you can achieve over night; it will always be a work in progress but with a positive mind set and determination, you will feel yourself getting closer and closer to the end of that long road you’ve worked at every day.

One of the best ways to start off is by surrounding yourself with people who embrace you, and who make you feel accepted.

They do not have to constantly be complimenting you, they just have to accept the real you with less negativity. Chances are if they talk about themselves or others with disrespect, they’ll bring negative vibes into your life and you’ll feel

pressured to do the same. This will begin pulling you down quickly, pushing you farther away from where you want to be – feeling positive. After all reality states that the happier you feel with yourself, the less you’ll desire to take part in those behaviors. However I do know for a fact that staying away from negative vibes is a lot easier said than done.

Imagine you’re running to grab your confidence at the end of the long stretch, only this time things are being thrown at you. You’re doing your very best to keep going, but it’s getting harder as you feel each hit trying to erode your pace.

From my own experience as a High school student I know that most teenagers struggle a lot with their body image, feeling like there’s always something they need to change about themselves in order to feel more confident. Lately some well known brands and stores no longer sell plus-size clothing, so the pressure is on for teens like never before.

After speaking to some of my peers, I found that teenage boys and girls also feel pressured by many other things: such as getting good marks whether it’s for themselves or their parents, getting into relationships, joining sports teams because all of their friends are, and participating in underage drinking.

There are so steven@moorepartners.ca many different susan@moorepartners.ca influences that will try to make your self-esteem www.moorepartners.ca 613 • 379 • 5958 small, but once again it is so important to think positive thoughts even on For Garden Help Choose days when you are feeling like you are lagging behind Design and Maintain New Beds or Old! on that long road Flowers • Herbs • Shrubs • Vines • Bulbs to self-confidence.

Planters • House Plants • Perennials Nothing is more beautiful than For Free Estimates being confident in Call Colleen at 613-379-5959 who you are.

Colleen’s Gardening Service

Millville Community

Fall Bazaar

Hall

”Autumn splendor”

hosts a musical jam night

at Trinity United Church, Napanee,

every Monday night at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, October 25

Come join us at 659 Victoria Rd south

9:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

of Aylesford with your instrument or just to relax and listen to the sounds.

There will be a community potluck supper

Morning coffee $3 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Luncheon: 11:30 a.m. & 12:45 p.m.

Adults: $10 / Children: $5

at Millville Community Hall

Advance tickets –

on October 25th at 5:00 p.m.

Phone Lorraine at 613.354.4167

All are welcome from near and

or the Church office at 613.354.3858

far. Come for delicious food, great

Crafts, baking, book sale, plants

company and live entertainment.

& produce and much more

20

THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

ometimes it’s nice to get away, even if it’s only for a weekend – just to escape the bustle of the city, the preoccupation with technology, or even the predictable pattern of one’s life. Whether you head out to the lake, catch a train out of town, or visit with family and friends, you know that excitement and relaxation awaits. When I want to get away, I take a little camping trip.

When I say camping, I don’t mean out in the middle of nowhere.

While some may choose roughing it as their getaway, it’s not exactly my thing. I prefer camping in a campground with lots of people around, a store in case you forgot anything, tons of activities and things going on, and most importantly, indoor plumbing. And this is exactly what I get at Desert Lake Family Resort, just north of Kingston.

I think I spent most of the summer and half of the fall at the resort and what a wonderful time it was. I got away for girls’ nights, family trips, and even big group gatherings with many others. I saw several bands play, built many campfires, played some soccer games that included most of the kids in the park, and even endured some crazy thunderstorms.

And I definitely wouldn’t trade any minute of it.

The best part of coming to a campground instead of roughing it in the middle of nowhere is the sense of community prevalent in these places. Desert Lake is a great place to catch up with friends from a lifetime ago, meet up with new people and families, or relax with the always friendly seasonal campers. And I can honestly say that I experienced all of these this past summer and fall, and in the process, made many new friends.

These interactions with others are fuelled by the many events and activities going on at the campground.

They have many things going on throughout the summer, including Halloween in August, a carnival weekend, Kids’ Olympics, life size duct tape boat races, and many more. And with a

large ball field, shuffleboard courts, a small beach, and horseshoe pits, there are many more ways to entertain oneself.

But camping doesn’t just offer the chance to meet new people, it gives everyone the opportunity to enjoy some of the simpler things in life. It provides us with a way to get a little closer to nature and the beauty that it brings. A campfire under the stars, a paddleboat ride across the lake, or a picnic on the grass. To me, it’s these little things that really matter when trying to get away.

So while it may be a little late now for some camping trips, there’s still time to dream about next summer and the fun that can be had rain or shine on your own little getaway.

HELP WANTED Two part-time positions available:

1. COOK/SERVER/CASHIER 2. HARDWARE PERSON Must have experience.

Call 613-379-2202 or 613-379-1064 Loyalist Cove Marina 100 Bayshore Drive Bath, ON K0H 1G0 Tel: 613-352-3478 Fax: 613-352-5209 Email: info@loyalistcovemarina.com

“Friendliest Full Service Marina in Eastern Ontario”

www.loyalistcovemarina.com Dockage * Storage * Service * Boat Transportation Awlgrip Refinishing * Bottom Blasting * Osmosis Repair New Repair and Additional Storage facility 3.5 km’s from Marina Owners: Dave & Michelle Hinton

Tel: 613-379-5874 Email: soscsvcs@gmail.com Web: www.s-o-s-computers.com

Wm. (Bill) Greenley Kim Read

Network and Internet Security Specialists Wired, Wireless, Network Design and Implementation Computer repairs and sales New or reconditioned

Meet The First Step Jason Larocque I

By Isabel Wright

used to swear that I could never be a runner.

observing nature’s vibrant colours before winter.

By Stella Thompson

S

caling vertical heights while batting away angry wasps doesn’t stop Jason from getting the job done. Whether he is painting or renovating, restoring or landscaping, he’s a jack-ofall-trades that we all need when something needs to be done around the house. When winter arrives and brings an end to all those outside jobs, Jason operates a snow plowing business.

Jason, an Erinsville resident for the past eleven years, finds time to relax with his three children, ranging in ages of three to seven, by water skiing and fishing and having barbeques at the park.

You can contact Jason at larock481@gmail.com or at 613.855.5307.

Now, I’m hardly a speed demon, but I’ve come to appreciate the surprisingly extensive benefits from logging kilometers daily. Runners everywhere will agree that running brings clarity of mind, a reduction of stress levels, greater focus, and, often, better sleep. Of course, it also brings along the physical benefits of exercise, such as muscle tone, greater cardiovascular and endurance capabilities, and core strength, all of which can help you in other athletic and everyday pursuits.

Luckily for current non-runners, fall is the best time to start! Cooling temperatures make physical exertion much more pleasant than the swelter of summer, and there is no better time of year to be outside,

So, how do you start, you ask? It’s best to pick a short distance and go from there. Once you can run most of the distance, as slowly as you need to, with only a few walk breaks, you can start to increase the length of your route. Many people find it motivating to sign up for a race with a friend: you commit to training and pushing yourself to a new distance.

Doing workouts with a friend is also a way to make your runs more fun, and you can push each other to new speeds.

With a little initial dedication and continued motivation, you’ll be on your way to embracing a new hobby, sport, or whatever you make it – remember, the first step is always the hardest, but it’s also always worth it.

county of Frontenac 2014 Access Award

T

he County of Frontenac will accept nominations for the 2014 International Day of Persons with Disabilities Access Award until October 30, 2014.

Community members are encouraged to nominate those individuals and organizations in the Frontenacs who are going above and beyond to help enable persons with disabilities equal access to opportunities within the County.

photo by Jeff richards.

THE EGG BASKET A LWAYS FA R M F R ES H EGGS 240 EMBURY ROAD, NEWBURGH 613-378-0407

Plan ahead for your holiday meals!

Monthly meat specials Stock up for the winter with our package deals While you are here buying beef don’t forget to take home some eggs ALWAYS FARM FRESH Serving daily hot lunches, homemade fudge, fresh baked treats Come see our products, jams, jellies, preserves, sauces, and honey Mark your calendars for Saturday November 29, 9:30 - 4:30 p.m.

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE

Free product samples to taste and enjoy, and lots of other treats Lots of ideas to make Christmas special!

Pre-made gift baskets available or order for that hard to buy person GIFT BASKET DRAW! STORE HOURS: Mon - Sat 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

RIVER VALLEY POULTRY FARM

“Eliminating barriers and promoting inclusion is crucial to building resilient communities,” says Denis Doyle, Deputy Warden of the County of Frontenac. “This award helps bring awareness to accessibility issues across the County and celebrates the forward-thinking people and organizations who are making important, tangible differences every day.”

Improving Access can include the design of new or renovated buildings, an employment program, a transportation system, a recreational or leisure program, or anything that contributes significantly to persons with disabilities living independently.

Nomination forms can be found at www.frontenaccounty.ca and can be submitted at the County Administration Office or at any Township Administration Office.

The County, in partnership with the Frontenac Accessibility Advisory Committee (FAAC), created this award in 2013 to recognize persons, groups or organizations that have made or are making a significant contribution beyond legislated requirements, towards improving access for persons with disabilities in the County of Frontenac.

The 2013 award was presented to the Verona Lions Club, for its work renovating the Verona Lions Hall, including upgrades to washrooms and storage rooms, installation of electronic door openers on the front and side entrances, and construction of a concrete sidewalk to provide access to the Pavilion.

The winner of the 2014 award will be announced at December’s County Council meeting with a luncheon to follow. For more information about this award, visit www.frontenaccounty.ca or contact Jannette Amini, Manager of Legislative Services/Clerk at 613.548.9400 ext. 302 or jamini@frontenaccounty.ca.

The United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities promotes awareness of disability issues and mobilizes support for dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities, and of the gains to be derived from their inclusion in every aspect of life.

INDOOR CO-ED VOLLEYBALL @ TAMWORTH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL October 3 – May 15, from 7 - 9 p.m.

Call to register 613.379.5870 or email cna420@yahoo.ca SEE YOU ON THE COURT! October / November 2014 • THE SCOOP

21

FREE CLASSIFIEDS

answers to the crossword on the puzzle page (page 24):

Free to private individuals or not-for-profit community groups.

To place an ad, phone 613.379.5369 or email stonemills.scoop@gmail.com.

FOR SALE: Kindling. World’s Best Kindling from right here in Tamworth! $10 for a 12”x16” box. Buy 5, get one free. 613.539.2831.

FOR SALE: 6,000 Watt “Handy Man” Diesel Generator, works but needs some attention. $200. 613.539.2831 WANTED: Old glass patio doors or storm windows. Will pick up to save you a trip to the landfill. 613.539.2831 WANTED: Volleyball players to play indoor volleyball Fridays @ Tamworth School starting October 3 – May 15, from 7-9 p.m.

FOR SALE: Two ladies’ bicycles in great condition. Phone 613.379.5244 to arrange a visit.

WANTED: Studebaker memorabilia.

Items such as manuals, brochures, old dealer calendars, pens, pencils, lighters, watches, etc. Norm 613.968.4400.

FOR HIRE: Small Kubota tractor which comes with an operator.

Perfect for landscaping, drainage, and clearing. Let us know your needs and we will fulfil them. Steve @ Dynamic Digging: 613.539.8015.

the sharbot lake Farmers market runs 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every saturday, from the may long weekend through thanksgiving weekend in october, at the sharbot lake (oso) Beach.

Visitors will find fresh farm produce, hot coffee, delicious breakfast and lunch items, homemade baked goods, local crafts, live music, shiatsu massage, a full park with playground, swimming, friendly conversation, and more—all at our picturesque lakeside setting. our unique market is a perfect way to start your saturday! gardeners and farmers are invited to sell their produce at our market. those not sure about becoming full members can try things out as occasional Vendors for only $10 per Saturday, up to three times. visit www.sharbotlakefarmersmarket.ca or call 613.329.3187 for more information.

Christmas Shopping Tour in the Country SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1st, 2014 ‘Unique Handmade Creations by Local Artisans’ ‘It’s a day of shopping and fun in the country!’

Moscow Breakfast @ Friends Meeting House 20 Huffman Road, Moscow / Sat. Nov. 1st, 7:30 – 11:00 a.m.

Enjoy a delicious home cooked breakfast, featuring the ‘Dump Run Special’! Free Will Offering.

The SCOOP is looking for writers!

Creative Art Show & Sale @ Moscow Church Hall 25 Huffman Road , Moscow Sat. Nov. 1st, 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Quilting • Jewellery • Knitting • Paintings • Preserves Tole Painting & more …all by local artisans

Are you a community-minded person who loves to write?

Well then join our team and have fun writing for the best little

Love Jewelry/Love Plus 474 Huffman Road, Moscow / Sat. Nov. 1st, 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Specializing in Jewelry, Scarves and Women’s Clothing, Sizes 2-24

newsmagazine in the area!

Susan Farber’s Annual Show & Sale

Contact Angela Saxe: angela.saxe@gmail.com

4045 County Rd. 6, Moscow Sat. Nov. 1 & Sun. Nov. 2nd, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. st

Home Decor, Clothing, Jewellery, Pottery, Sweet Treats CLARKE ART AND PROJECTS The Gallery is at 444 Main Street, Newburgh.

Hours: Thursday and Saturday 1 - 4 p.m. and by appointment, call 613.378.6993 or check our page at www.facebook.com/ clarkeartandprojects CURRENT EXHIBITION: “Eclectic – Artists Collect” a wide ranging exhibition includes Japanese woodblock prints, Landscapes in varied media, Prints and Paintings by contemporary Canadian and International artists.

ART CLASSES FOR ADULTS: Painting and Drawing on Wednesday evenings 6 - 9 p.m.

Individual instruction in small group for all levels of experience, beginners to advanced.

8 weeks start on October 8th. Still a few places left .

Weekend workshops are being planned. Topics : Colour theory and mixing, Composition and perspective.

spirit oF christMas BaZaar saturday november 8

Stone & Glass Bead Jewellery

9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Selby Community Hall

Irene & Ingrid Tiffe

Large number of vendors

1855 Bethel Road, Yarker / Sat. Nov. 1st, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Christmas puddings

Knitting, Sewing, Eco-Fashion & Accessories, Cards, Dog Treats

Gumdrop cakes

Luncheon & Bazaar @ Riverside United Church

Bake table

2 Mill Street, Yarker, Sat. Nov. 1st

Gift baskets

Luncheon & Bazaar 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Crafts Muffins and coffee

Local Artisans 10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Come & enjoy lunch until 1:00, then coffee/tea and treats & local artisans until 3:00 p.m.

Chili lunch for $6

Chili, Sandwiches, Home Baking, Crafts,

FREE ADMISSION

Silent Auction & Local Artisans with their Wares

Phone for more information or email: clarkeartandprojects@gmail.com

22

Deb Storey Jewellery 1403 Bethel Road, Yarker / Sat. Nov. 1st, 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

W&S Environmental Services Approved by the Ministry of the Environment Seniors receive 10% discount

GRASS CUTTING GARBAGE PICKUP & RECYCLABLES LARGE ITEMS PICKUP

Phone: 613-379-5872 Cell: 613-483-8441 sadie.4309705@gmail.com

KIDS & PARENTS county of Lennox & Addington

Public Library Programs AMHERSTVIEW ADULTS Avid Readers Oct. 16 – A Book with a Black or Orange Cover / Nov. 20 – A Memoir / Dec. – Christmas is Coming! – Stories of the Season Computer Classes – Tuesdays @ 2 p.m. (4 Week Sessions) Oct. – 7, 14, 21, 28 / Nov. – 4, 11, 18, 25 / Dec. – 2, 9, 16, 23 Tech Talks – Mondays – Thursdays @ 2 p.m.

My Family Tree Club – an introductory club that will help you discover your families roots.

Nov. 3, Dec. 1 @ 10 a.m.

National Film Board Club – Oct. 20, Nov. 17, Dec. 15 @ 10 a.m.

CHILDREN Reading Buddies – Mondays @ 6 or 6:30 p.m. / Saturdays @ 10 or 10:30 a.m.

Puppy Tales – Wednesdays @ 10:30 a.m.

Storytime – Mondays @ 10:30 a.m.

Lego Club – Thursdays @ 6:30 p.m. / Saturdays @ 10:30 a.m.

P.A. Day Fun – Monday Oct. 27 & Friday Nov. 28

BATH ADULTS Coffee Club – Nov. 24 National Film Board Club (3rd Monday @ 6 p.m.) – Oct. 20, Nov. 17, Dec. 15 CHILDREN Lego Club – Wednesdays @ 6:30 p.m.

Storytime – Fridays @ 11 a.m.

Crafty Creations (1st Saturday of the month @ 10) – Nov. 1, Dec. 6

Computer Classes Wednesdays @ 2 p.m. (4 Week Sessions) (Kim) – Oct. – 1, 8, 15, 22 / Nov. – 5, 12, 19, 26 Tech Talk – Mondays – Thursdays @ 2 p.m.

My Family Tree Club – an introductory club that will help you discover your families roots. – Oct. 10, Nov. 7, Dec. 5 @ 10 a.m.

National Film Board Club (3rd Wednesday @ 10 a.m.) – Oct. 22, Nov. 19, Dec. 17 CHILDREN Lego Club – Tuesdays @ 6 p.m. & Saturdays @ 11 a.m.

Puppy Tales – Wednesdays @ 10:30 a.m.

Reading Buddies – Mondays @ 6 or 6:30 p.m. & Saturdays @ 10 or 10:30 p.m.

P.A. Day Fun – Monday Oct. 27 & Friday Nov. 28

ODESSA

Principal’s Message

By Chad Taylor

T

he first three weeks of school have been fantastic and I would like to thank the students, their parents and the staff of both Tamworth and Enterprise Schools. We have had our first School Council meetings and are looking forward to planning some great things throughout the year.

One of the items that is a focus for both schools throughout the year will be Growth Mindset. It is something that will be talked about regularly by all our staff. There are two types of mindsets: “Fixed – In a fixed mindset, people believe their basic qualities, like their intelligence or talent, are simply fixed traits.

Then there is the growth mindset – In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point. Teaching a

growth mindset creates motivation and productivity in the worlds of business, education, and sports.” (from www.mindsetonline.com/ whatisit/about/index.html) Throughout the course of the year we will be continuing to develop and work on a growth mindset within the schools. If students say they “can’t do” something – we are going to add a simple word to that phrase – “yet” to make it “can’t do it yet”. You will see articles in the school newsletter/twitter and website. We hope that you will join us on this journey and help us to foster a growth mindset in our schools and communities.

Chad is the Principal at Tamworth Elementary School and Emterprise Elementary School. You can reach him by email at taylorch@limestone.on.ca

Lego Club – Thursdays @ 4 p.m.

Crafty Creations (1st Saturday of the Month @ 3 p.m.) – Nov. 1, Dec. 6

SOUTH FREDERICKSBURGH Lego Club – Thursdays @ 6:30 p.m.

Crafty Creations (1st Saturday of the Month @ 3 p.m.) – Nov. 1, Dec. 6

TAMWORTH Lego Club – Wednesdays @ 6:30 p.m.

Storytime – Thursdays @11 a.m.

Crafty Creations (1st Saturday of the Month @ 10 a.m.) – Nov. 1, Dec. 6

Fall artwork by students at tamworth elementary school.

YARKER Lego Club – Tuesdays @ 6:30 p.m.

Crafty Creations (1st Saturday of the Month @ 10 a.m.) – Nov. 1, Dec. 6

CAMDEN EAST Storytime – Mondays @ 10:15 a.m.

Lego Club – Wednesdays @ 6 p.m.

Crafty Creations (1st Saturday of the month @ 10 a.m.) – Nov. 1, Dec. 6

NAPANEE ADULTS Novel Readers Book Club – Oct. 20 – The Silent Wife / Nov. 17 – Barney’s Version / Dec. 15 – Middlesex Computer Classes – Saturdays @ 2 p.m. (4 Week Sessions)(Chantell) – Oct. – 4, 11, 18, 25 / Nov. – 8, 15, 22, 29 / Dec. – 6, 13, 20, 27

SPECIAL EVENTS Toronto-based performer Corin Raymond will be bringing his highly acclaimed one-man show to Tamworth! A story about a father reading to his son, growing up in a library, Spiderman, Ray Bradbury, and meeting the Minotaur just outside of Wawa.

Sunday, November 23rd, 2 p.m. at the Tamworth Legion This FREE event brought to you buy the Tamworth Legion and the County of Lennox & Addington Libraries.

QCHS ANNUAL FALL VENDOR’S MARKET Friday November 21, 4 – 9 p.m. and Saturday November 22, 10 – 3 p.m.

Quinte Christian High School, 138 Wallbridge-Loyalist Road, Belleville Over 50 vendors will be displaying their wares for you to choose from. Great for Christmas shopping ideas! Vendor’s include stained glass, knitting, jewelry, kitchen essentials, upscale recycled furniture, Christmas decorations and many more.

Come for dinner on Friday or stay for lunch on Saturday at the QC Vendor’s Market Café.

Check out the home baked goods table as well.

Admission is $2.

coMe Join us For a Fun FilleD tiMe oF socialiZing anD interacting With your chilDren through craFts, Music anD play erinsville playgroup: Mondays 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Located in the gym at the south side of St. Patrick’s School 6041 Hwy 41, Erinsville

northbrook Drop-in: Wednesdays 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Excluding the 4th Wednesday of the month.

Northbrook Lions Hall, 12328 Hwy 41, Northbrook Light Lunch provided for a Loonie Donation!

Flinton Drop-in: thursdays 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Township Recreation Hall, 72 Edward St., Flinton Located on the lower level Light Lunch provided for a Loonie Donation!

We will be running another School Readiness Program this year.

This free program is a great way to prepare your child for this new experience of starting school. We work together with the Kindergarten teacher to provide your child with a very similar setting to the one they will have in September. It gives children the opportunity to build new friendships, as they learn the routines together. Please call our office to register 613-336-8934, EXT 257.

Space is limited and it fills up fast, so don’t delay.

For more information on playgroups or upcoming workshops contact the ontario early years north office in northbrook 613-336-8934, eXt 257 October / November 2014 • THE SCOOP

23

PUZZLE PAGE New York Times Crossword

by Randall J. Hartman / Will Shortz ŠThe New York Times Across

1

1. Toast to one's health

2

3

4

5

6

11. Belle of the ball

17

18

14. Humiliate

20

21

15. Ship from the Mideast

23

16. Commercial cousin of crazy eights

26

17. Traps off the coast of Maine

31

19. Get-up-and-go

33

8

9

10

22

24

25 29

30

32 34

35

36

39

23. Southerner in the Civil War

46

25. "___ you asked ..."

48

26. Part of a TV catchphrase from Howie Mandel 28. Ball catcher behind a catcher

13

16

28

21. Urns 42

12

19

27

20. Horn sound 22. Nozzle site

11

15

14

6. Whooping ___

7

43

40

37

38

53

54

41

45

44 47 49

50

51

52

55

56

57

58

59

60

61

62

63

Autumn Word Search W E R T I S D R U O G J I H T

J H G A D K M J U C S Q E A S

W X C E K T I U O H P L G R I

O S J Y G I D R M J U D N V A

R N W E C E N T I N O H A E K

C I U L J H G G D K M J R S S

E K Z L L X C E R A I U O T P

R P J O L T J H I S D K T J U

A M Q W A S W Z C E R T I U O

C U L K B I E T J L G L D K A

S P D S T A Z L W P C E R T I

U O H P O K L I U P J A G N D

K M J U O A Q A Z A W V C E R

T I U O F P L N O S A E S H G

13.

14.

15.

16.

Corn Maize Yellow Orange

N D K M J U C O L O R S W X C

See how many of these autumn related words you can find in the puzzle.

The words can be forward, backward or diagonal.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Autumn Fall Leaves Colors

5.

6.

7.

8.

Raking Harvest Pumpkins Apples

9. Gourds 10. Football 11. Season 12. Scarecrow

31. Thesis defenses 32. Identical to 34. Source of disruption to satellites 36. "My man!"

39. Disobeys 40. Letter-shaped skyscraper support 42. Sleeveless shirts 45. Strained relations?

46. Bakery fixtures

60. Guy 61. Wide shoe spec 62. Put a hex on 63. Fish basket Down 1. Pepper's partner 2. "Peek-___" 3. Jerry Lewis telethon time

12. Georges who composed "Romanian Rhapsodies"

37. Like vegetables in salads

13. "Little" shepherdess of children's verse

38. Mantra syllables

18. Daredevil Knievel

41. Knee-slapping goof

22. Serpentine sound 24. Droopy-eared hounds 25. Rink activity 26. This instant

39. Designer letters 42. Thus far 43. Street 44. Music genre for Enya 45. Aviation pioneer Sikorsky

48. Moist, as morning grass

5. Investigator: Abbr.

49. Los Angeles's San ___ Bay

6. Reef material

27. Bobby ___, the only N.H.L.'er to win the Hart, Norris, Ross and Smythe trophies in the same year

7. Steals, with "off"

28. Points on a diamond?

50. Pitcher

52. Mayberry lad

8. Skin cream ingredient

29. Roadies' loads

51. Turns red, perhaps

55. Santa ___ winds

9. New Jersey hoopsters

30. Corporate V.I.P.

56. Gotham tabloid

10. Places to see M.D.'s in a hurry

32. Salon sound

53. "Survivor" setting, sometimes

11. Company behind nylon and Teflon

36. Tall, skinny guy

47. Goad

58. Yank 59. Kennel club classification

4. Andrew Carnegie corp.

35. Roswell sighting

47. Wash away, as soil 49. Andean land

54. And others, briefly 56. Peacock network 57. Col. Sanders's chain

7

2 9

8 4 4 3 9 7 1 7 3 2 3 1 6 8 2 8 4 9 9 6 7 8 6 24

THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

Daily Sudoku: Fri 3-Oct-2014

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2014. All rights reserved.

33. Twisted, as humor

Letting Go

By Sally Bowen

M

ost of us are tenacious little hoarders. We hang on to bad memories, to resentments, to our “stories” about our past. We also hang on really stubbornly to our “stuff.”

Now in my late 60s, I’m in the process of learning to let go. I can recommend the concept but the process isn’t for sissies.

Since 1996 I’ve struggled with the effects of Lyme disease, undiagnosed for nine years. I’m way better than I was, but I am still attached to a feeding machine part of the day and all night. I live my life, on the computer, knitting (usually flat on my back in bed), in the garden or in the lake and by marketing our lamb and wool products. But it truly hadn’t occurred to me until very recently that I probably will not have another overnight canoe/camping outing in my future. I was shocked by the thought. A cousin, after having a second back fusion operation, was most grieved by the thought that she’d never swing a golf club again.

Neither of us had acted on those particular dreams since our 20s but always believed we could. After a little grieving, I’ve whittled my determination down to planning an overnight campout on our beautiful shore property, feeding machine (called Matilda) and all.

A friend was determined to let go

of the niggling memories of some bad early experiences, and of the “stories” surrounding them that she kept repeating to herself. She went to the Burning Man Festival in the Black Rock desert in Nevada on a kind of spiritual quest, writing on paper what she wanted to discard, and adding it to the giant bonfire event. For her it was life changing.

We don’t have to go on a pilgrimage but it is easier to let go of hurtful convictions if some sort of purging ceremony happens.

My grandparents bought a family cottage on Lake Simcoe in 1942 and it has been in the family until now.

On October 1st it changes hands.

Joyful memories of five generations of their descendents are entwined in that place. Every single one of us (surviving) have been there this summer, choosing a few items that carry the memory of those shimmering summers. My son found a wad of stashed Easter egg clues, all in rhyme, that the three sets of parents would write, and then the children would go seek those eggs.

Keepers. My grampy, Dudley had a big brass bed and a bigger laugh, and a bad heart. He died when I was four, but he had a huge impact on my life; memories of four cousins in bed with him, singing and laughing.

I’ve saved his eight handled china potty, specially commissioned, as he couldn’t find the handle of the ‘guzunda’ at night. My Nana was

skilled at ‘making do’ – with a flair. I’ll hold on to her piecework, cosy dressing gown, a fine example of creating lovely and practical nana’s robe of many colours, with grampy’s potty. products photo by lyndsey Murray-nyborn. with her imagination and her hands. My cousins held take the two old red rockers. That a content sale in kindness to me, feels great. and have told stories around each item sold, ensuring as much as I’m letting go of the “stuff ” but I get possible that they’ll go to the best to keep every one of those vivid homes. Shelters, Humane Societies, memories. I know I’ll feel lighter historical museums and collections soon. have benefitted too.

For more information contact Topsy The final truckload of unsold items Farms at 613.389.3444 or 888.287.3157 will soon be here and a last round or topsyfarms.com. of sorting and finding the best homes for items awaits. I’ve just sold my father’s silk top hat to a young man with health challenges Lamb and The Wool Shed who will revel in on Amherst Island its ownership. A neighbour who Email: info@topsyfarms.com 613 389-3444 Web: www.topsyfarms.com reads lots and has topsyfarms.wordpress.com 888 287-3157 a great laugh will

TOPSY FARMS

A Place Worth Discovering!

27 Kellwood Crescent, Napanee, 613 354 5649

Monday-Friday 9:30-5:00pm - Saturday, 10am– 4:30pm At Hwy 41 and 401 Exit south at Napanee

TCO DEER MIX • WILDLIFE CORN • DEER BLOCKS RACK STACKER • DEER PLOT MIXES

TROPHY ROCK

SALE $14.95 REG $16.95 DEER MINERALS, FLAVOURED SALTS AND LICKS

“LIKE” & “SHARE” our Facebook page to see what’s new and to be entered in our monthly draw

www.explorersmarket.com

MUCK® BOOT New camo and hunting styles available

tcoagromart.com October / November 2014 • THE SCOOP

25

Perfect Autumn Days 13 Years Experience

By Jordan Balson, Grade 12 student NDSS

T

he leaves changing colour is the first sign of autumn. They peak their red and gold heads out even before the temperatures start to drop – but once they do the weather catches up in no time.

Right now we’re at the magical time of the year where the weather is perfect: not too hot so that it’s uncomfortable, but not cold enough to require anything more than a light jacket. And what’s better to do than to take advantage of the great outdoors during this amazing season?

There’s so much to do outside it’s hard to know where to start. But let’s start with the spectacular sight of the country in the autumn. Going for a hike is a great way to take in these sights. The multi-coloured leaves, the wildlife preparing for winter and the world silhouetted in the orange sunsets – there’s a reason rural life is the best life. And the only thing that can make a good hike better is great company. Whether you bring along your family, a friend or just your pet (I can seldom find a more enthusiastic hiking partner than my dog), great company makes all the difference.

Enjoying autumn is best done with a friend: exploring the autumn terrain, having a deluxe fall barbeque or even just hanging out. Even the little things, like sightseeing or going for drive down

SOLAR GAS WOOD GENERATORS

rural roads to take in the autumn colours can be amplified and just made that much more exciting with a good friend. By combining the best people with the best time of year in the best place, you can’t possibly go wrong!

The fall is also the time when organized sports and extracurricular activities start up: basketball, volleyball and football to name a few. Even if organized sports aren’t your thing, it’s always great to get busy outside. Whether it’s kicking a soccer ball around with some friends or playing “horse” with a makeshift basketball net, the outdoors are not only great, but great for you. Plus with back to school, sports and other activities can help you relieve stress and have fun. Overall, it’s a win-win situation!

But best of all perhaps, are the lazy fall days. The cooler temperatures and lack of bugs just cater to these perfect days, and if the weather is on your side, you can’t go wrong!

Just being outside and breathing in the crisp, fall air is sometimes all you need to make a great weekend.

Whether you’re reading under your favourite tree, listening to music or just watching the clouds mosey on by, it’s the little things that can make the best days. And the autumn seems to always have an endless supply of those.

Solar Systems Propane Appliances Wood & Gas Heating Home Standby Generators

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1947 FUEL DELIVERY Propane, Oil, Diesels, Gas SALES & INSTALLS All Types of Heating and Cooling Appliances SERVICE 24 hrs day aaWeek 24 hrs 77days Week 373 Centre St. N Napanee, Ont K7R 1P7

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YOUR LOCAL DISTRIBUTOR FOR

Milbank Generators and

Blaze King Gas & Woodstoves

DESIGN SALES INSTALLATION SERVICE

downundersolar.ca or

613-583-0139 NEW SHOWROOM 670 Fortune Cres, Unit 5, Kingston By appointment

LANE Veterinary Services

Since 1983

Serving Pets & Farm Animals Mon, Tues, Thurs: 8:30am-5pm 211 McQuay St. off Cty. Rd. #6 Wed: 8:30am-7pm (between Colebrook & Moscow) Fri: 8:30am-4pm RR#3 Yarker, ON K0K 3N0 Sat: 10am-1pm Emergency Service By Appointment

www.lanevetservices.ca www.lanevetservices.ca info@lanevetservices.ca

(613) 358-2833 or 1-888-832-1904 Fall river walk. photo by Mike paterson.

“Prevention is the Best Medicine” 11 Concession St. S., Tamworth, ON

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER • DESSERTS

Serving you the very best in Squares, Tarts & Bars!

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

8 - 4 p.m.

8 - 4 p.m.

8 - 4 p.m.

8 - 4 p.m.

10 - 4 p.m.

Come in & try our Sunday Brunch Specials

We are Vegetarian Friendly!

613-379-2972 26

THE SCOOP • October / November 2014

Follow us on Facebook @ The river bakery café & patio llbo We look forward to serving you!

Bud Davis and Sally McGowan

RE-ELECT JOHN WISE to stone Mills council

Wine Vintners

Packaging Labels & Suggested ShrinksBREW ON PREMISE Bottle Labels

2015 “Passport” Limited Edition Release

30 removable, peel and stick bottle labels are included in each kit

EXPERIENCE • Three terms on council, one term on school board • Current Chair of Quinte Conservation Authority • Have chaired or been a member of several township committees • Past member L&A Interval House Executive • Organic farmer at Centreville for 36 years

Shrink Capsules

Must be pre-ordered by November 20th Shrink featured on marketing material images: Payment due at bottling time #001376 Solid Black

ISSUES • I will work to keep a medical practice in Tamworth • I will work to get provincial funding assistance to repair the Colebrook Dam • I will work to reduce energy costs through initiatives like LED streetlights • I will work to control spending while maintaining essential services

PETIT VERDOT WASHINGTON YAKIMA VALLEY

BRUNELLO STYLE PINOT GRIS ITALY MONTALCINO

OREGON WILLAMETTE VALLEY

PINOT NOIR

CALIFORNIA SONOMA VALLEY

WITH GRAPE SKINS

VOLCANIC RED

CHILE CURICÓ VALLEY WITH GRAPE SKINS

PLEASE GIVE ME YOUR SUPPORT TO CONTINUE WORKING FOR YOU

Introducing “Cheeky Monkey” products to our store Or try these colours: #001390 Solid Yellow Orange

These are country#001369 of origin premium 4 week kits #001388 #001373 Solid Violet Metallic

Green Tea

QUESTIONS? Call me at 378-2583 or email jfhwise@gmail.com

Plain Teal

#01386 Ruby Red Metallic

Australia Shiraz Australia Chardonnay California Riesling Chile Malbec Chile Merlot Chile Pinot Noir Germany Gewurtztraminer Italy Sangiovese Syrah Italy Valpolicella South Africa Cabernet Sauvignon South Africa Sauvignon Blanc Spain Cabernet Merlot Garnacha Washington State Pinot Gris

SPECIAL: Ancient Mead Mead is honey wine.

It’s considered by many to be the first alcoholic beverage created predating both grape wine and beer.

Best known as the drink of Celts and Vikings, our recipe is over 300 years old and we have been refining it for the past eleven years. Each batch contains eight pounds of local honey. This creates a very smooth taste served at room temperature or warmed up.

We will be offering this for a Christmas Special - this will include: twenty-four 375 ml bottles, corks, shrinks, and special mead label. $149 Please order ASAP as it takes up to eight weeks to make this.

A perfect Christmas gift.

STORE HOURS

100 St George St, Deseronto Phone: 613- 396-2874 Cell: 613-539-0491

facebook.com/ComeAndSeeTrishasCloset

Sun-Mon Closed Tues-Fri 8:30-5:00 Sat 8:30-Noon

For more information on these and all our wines visit www.vinecowine.com

613-353-7618

THANK

buddavis@kingston.net 3748 O’Neil Lane INVERARY (next to Garrett’s Meats)

for supporting

YOU your local merchants

October / November 2014 • THE SCOOP

27

re-elect KEVIN WAGAR MUNICIPAL COUNCILLOR

Cell: 613-539-7203 Email: kevinwagar@hotmail.com

My coMMitMent to you: • I will keep the Stone Mills Community Centre operational • Fund the restoration of the Colebrook dam • Build a new Yarker fire hall • Keep all community halls funded • Establish a plan to keep and attract doctors in Stone Mills • Be available 24-7 to answer your concerns or questions • I will continue to donate my net salary back to community groups and causes in Stone Mills Township • I will continue to put out a quarterly update at my cost • Continue to fight diligently to keep taxes under control vote For coMMon sense. vote For loWer taXes.

VOTE KEVIN WAGAR 28

THE SCOOP • October / November 2014