Biodegradable, natural and non-toxic are environmentally friendly promises plastered across many household products, but a CBC Marketplace investigation found that a number of them amount to little more than greenwashing.

"There's so much greenwash on shelves today, it's just overwhelming," said Adria Vasil, a columnist and author of the Ecoholic book series. "It's like a tsunami of greenwash really."

Figuring out whether products are actually environmentally friendly can be challenging since companies don't have to post the ingredients on cleaning products.

"For companies, they think, 'Consumers aren't looking too deeply. We can bamboozle them.'" said Marc Stoiber, who worked in advertising for 20 years but now helps companies go green.

Ecoholic author Vasil worked with Marketplace to examine environmental claims on household products and created the following Top 10 list of lousy labels.

The labels on Dawn's antibacterial dish soap feature baby seals and ducklings with the promise that "Dawn helps save wildlife." Dawn donates soap to clean up animals after oil spills and gives money to rescue groups, but the product itself contains an ingredient harmful to animals.

Triclosan, an antibacterial agent, was recently declared officially toxic to aquatic life and it is an ingredient environmental groups have called for to be banned. "We don't need more of this in our rivers and streams," said Vasil. "And it's certainly not saving wildlife."

Proctor & Gamble, maker of Dawn products, refused an interview request by Marketplace. In a statement, the company said, "All of our Dawn dishwashing products and ingredients are in compliance with current legal and regulatory requirements in Canada."

The decades-old J Cloth recently came out with a new product it suggests is an environmentally friendly alternative to paper towels: Biodegradable J Cloth. That and an official-looking biodegradable seal may lead some to believe it can be composted.

When CBC Marketplace called the manufacturer, they said the cloth can be thrown into compost bins. "J Cloth is composed of cellulose fibres, which are 100 per cent derived from wood pulp. These fibres are organic in nature, and biodegradable," they stated.

However, a Marketplace expert notes it can't go in the green bin because municipalities regulate what is certified compostable. Anything not approved is sent to a landfill. "Nothing biodegrades in landfills," notes Vasil. "You'll find 40-year-old hot dogs in landfills."

While the T-fal Natura frying pan uses 100 per cent recycled aluminum, an environmental benefit, there are other concerns with how misleading the label is.

The label advertises the pan as free of PFOA, or perfluorooctanoic acid, a manmade chemical used in the manufacture of non-stick cookware and a likely human carcinogen. The fact is there's never been PFOA used in T-fal frying pans, but the company has come under criticism for using it in the manufacturing process.

Marketplace called the company to ask whether the new "PFOA free" label means they've stopped using it in factories, and they said it's still in use. "Independent analysis … has confirmed that no PFOA is present in any of T-fal's non-stick cookware products," they added.

One of the key concerns around using road salt to melt ice is the damage salt does to aquatic life when it reaches rivers, streams and groundwater. Organic Melt ice remover advertises itself as being "environmentally safe" and an "agricultural-based product" with sugar beets.

When Marketplace checked with the company, it revealed that only three per cent of its product is sugar beets by weight and the rest is rock salt — that despite the fact that the ingredient list puts beets first.

There's no requirement for companies to put the main ingredient first on the list. The company, Eco-solutions, told Marketplace that using sugar beets makes the product work better so less is needed and overall there's less salt going into the environment.

The label on Vim PowerPro Naturals bathroom cleaner says 98 per cent natural ingredients. But as Vasil notes, "The word natural is totally unregulated."

Since companies aren't required to list ingredients for cleaning products on the back, Unilever has decided not to post them — or reveal them even when asked. "Unilever does not disclose specified ingredients information. However, if it's a medical necessity for this information, Unilever would be more than happy to work with your physician," a customer service agent said when Marketplace called them.

Marketplace commissioned a test on the product. Like many cleaning products, it largely contained water. When water was eliminated, one-quarter of the product was found to be petroleum-based chemicals. Unilever stated, "Our 'naturally derived' claim is based on all the ingredients in the product, including … water."

The Upper Canada Eco Collection bath mitt is made from bamboo, a plant that can be sustainably grown, but the tough grass is not as green as it might seem. Harsh chemical processing is required to turn the plant into a soft fabric.

The product also comes packaged in unrecyclable vinyl. When contacted by Marketplace, the company said, "Our packaging includes necessary product information for our customers to make an informed decision."

On the label, this cleaning product states it's non-toxic. But a Marketplace expert determined that one ingredient in the cleaner, 2-butoxyethanol, is listed by Environment Canada as a toxic health hazard that can damage red blood cells.

Vasil notes that no one is policing use of terms such as non-toxic on household products. The toxin is also not listed on the back of the product because there's currently no requirement for ingredient lists on cleaning products. "No one is forcing them to list their ingredients and to come clean about what's actually in the product," said Vasil.

Simple Green responded to questions from Marketplace about its non-toxic claim in a statement. "We have had independent laboratories … conduct a host of testing on our product as a whole to confirm that the complete formula is non-toxic."

While most memory foam is made out of polyurethane, a synthetic material that emits chemicals that can irritate the lungs, the label on the Obusforme EcoLogic pillow states that it contains "natural ingredients" and includes castor oil – a potential environmental improvement, if the amount was significant.

However, when Marketplace contacted the maker, HoMedics, the company said castor oil replaced only eight per cent of the petroleum-based polyurethane. "The ecologic contoured pillow is produced using processes that reduce the use of chemicals that are harmful to the environment," said HoMedics.

Featuring a dew-covered leaf on a crisp white bottle, Sunlight Green Clean laundry detergent looks the epitome of environmentally friendly and the label promises "plant-based cleaning ingredients."

But CBC commissioned a test of the product and found that, once water is eliminated, 38 per cent of the product is made of petro-chemicals. Those chemicals leave a major environmental footprint in terms of extraction, refinement and processing.

Sunlight responded to Marketplace in a statement that said, "With more than 60 per cent [plant-derived content], we have made significant positive strides to reduce the environmental impact of our product."

With an insecticide derived from the chrysanthemum flower, Raid EarthBlends Multi-bug Killer touts itself as an alternative insect control solution. Despite its naturally derived component, the label warns users to avoid contact with skin and clothes, and not to inhale the mist when spraying it.

"A lot of things in nature are actually dangerous and toxic," said Vasil. "Not all natural things are good for you. And this is a perfect example."

The product states it can be used for bed bugs, despite that in many parts of Canada, homeowners are banned from using such pesticides on their lawns. "Banned from your backyard, but OK for your bed?" questioned Vasil.

In a statement, the maker, SC Johnson, said it is "committed to using sustainable ingredients in our products" and the products are "safe and effective when used as directed."

Some know him as Coach Big, Huggy Bear. Others know him, more formally, as Captain Jim Lochschmidt.

Sure, Capt. Lochschmidt might well be a real softie beneath a rough and tough exterior, but he has one heck of a legacy in the world of cadet biathlon.

Born in Germany, Lochschmidt moved to Canada at the age of eight and has more or less called Naughton home for the bulk of his lifetime, including his lengthy career with Inco.

It was the involvement of his two daughters within the cadet corps that prompted his interest in the military, a passion that he maintained for more than 20 years later.

Since 1989, Lochschmidt and his wife have been involved with the Naughton Irish Regiment 2964, typically home to 30 to 40 young cadets. With the unit looking for a little help back in the day, Lochschmidt found a natural transition.

"I used to help out with the shooting, because I had always loved target shooting," he explained. "But when it came to biathlon, I couldn't understand why (our cadets) weren't winning. At 25 metres, they could knock off thumbtacks."

Finally taking the plunge and attending a competition in Petawawa, Lochschmidt made a surprising discovery.

"I was under the impression that they were doing classic (skiing) in competition, so we had the old three-pin binding skis," he said.

In fact, the biathlon involved the "skating style" of Nordic skiing, a pretty big adjustment for the young athletes.

"The other guy who was attending the races never said a word," Lochschmidt added.

True to his nature, the gentle giant began putting into place the framework for a biathlon program that would become the envy of the nation. With the help of the Crean Hill Gun Club and substantial support through the military chain of command, Lochschmidt and company built a biathlon trail and restocked the necessary equipment, allowing the small northern Ontario crew to be more than competitive.

"Quebec had ruled the roost in biathlon," Lochschmidt said. "My aim was to knock the living daylights out of Quebec. For eight years (from roughly 1993 through to 2000), we won all the gold medals.

"I never did any Nordic skiing as a kid," he added. "But I picked it up. I watched and learned. I learned a lot from the Quebec team, believe it or not. Even taking snow temperature — it was something I saw a Quebec coach doing in Petawawa."

But if Lochschmidt was going to throw himself, heart and soul, into the sport, he demanded an equal buy-in from his athletes.

"There is a commitment on their part," he said. "When I see that commitment, then I'll commit.
"I've been out there when it's minus 30 with wind chill. But when they say they're going to practice, they will be there."

With his 65th birthday approaching this summer, Lochschmidt has decided it's time to move on.

Thankfully, he will enjoy the opportunity to leave on a high. The most recent national championships produced yet another podium finish for the local crew, with Jennifer Hull capturing three bronze medals — two individual and one as part of the Ontario team.

"What I like about Jennifer, no matter how bad it got, she kept that smile," Lochschmidt said with a laugh. "She was always there to encourage her teammates."

Joining the cadet corps some three years ago and armed with an introduction to the sport via the "Biathlon Bears" through the Walden Cross-Country Club, Hull progressed quickly up the ranks, capturing gold at the Ontario Winter Games in 2010.

"It's an individual sport, so I could push myself, make myself get better by going out to practices," Hull said. "And you could learn to ski and shoot, which is pretty cool."

The effort paid off last month, as the Grade 12 Lockerby Composite student medalled on all three days.

"I worked so hard all year and to cross that finish line and look up at my parents and know I finished third, I cried."

The results provided a near ideal send-off for Lochschmidt, the Commanding Officer at the 2964 regiment.

"I would do anything for these kids," he said. "But my wife has a year and a half left (until age 65). We want to wind down and somebody has to take over."

Wanted: A big, huggy bear of a coach with an incredible attention to detail to mold the young athletes of tomorrow. It won't be easy to replace Captain Jim Lochschmidt.

Sault Property Taxes Remain Much Higher Than Property Taxes in Sudbury and North Bay

The Province continues to reduce tax pressure on the City of Sault Ste. Marie and has invested an additional $656,800 in the City through the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund (OMPF), a transfer program which helps municipalities with the costs of operating important social programs and services. The OMPF is made up of a combination of a transfer payment and the value of provincial uploads, which for the City of Sault Ste. Marie totals $30,726,400 in 2012.

On a per household basis, the City of Sault Ste. Marie receives more funding from the province’s OMPF than any other major city in Northern Ontario. In fact, Sault Ste. Marie received a combined per household provincial benefit of $890, while Timmins received $803, Sudbury $786, Thunder Bay $767 and North Bay $685. In comparison to Sault Ste. Marie, the provincial average of the combined per household benefit is far lower at $255.

It may be expected that municipalities receiving lower provincial per household transfers would be likely to have higher residential property taxes. However, that is not the case in Sudbury and North Bay. In these two comparable Northern Ontario cities, which both receive less in provincial transfers, property taxes are 15 percent to 20 percent lower than in Sault Ste. Marie.

In the case of Sudbury, which has a greater population than Sault Ste. Marie, property tax on a home assessed at $100,000 is $1,363 while in Sault Ste Marie property tax on a home assessed at a $100,000 is $1,703, which is a difference of $340. On a home assessed at $200,000, property tax in Sudbury is $2,726 while in Sault Ste Marie on a home assessed at $200,000, property tax is $3,406, which is a difference of $680.

In the case of North Bay, which has a smaller population than Sault Ste. Marie, property tax on a home assessed at $100,000 is $1,441, while in Sault Ste Marie property tax on a home assessed at a $100,000 is $1,703 which is a difference of $262. On a home assessed at $200,000, property tax in North Bay is $2,882 while in Sault Ste Marie on a home assessed at $200,000, property tax is $3,406, which is a difference of $524.

“It makes sense that cities in Northern Ontario, such as Thunder Bay and Timmins, which receive a smaller portion of the province’s OMPF grant, have higher municipal taxes in order to compensate but it does not make sense that Sault Ste. Marie residents pay significantly more in property taxes than residents in Sudbury and North Bay given the Sault receives more in provincial transfers than these communities,” said David Orazietti, MPP. “Clearly Sault residents do not pay the lowest municipal property taxes when compared to other major Northern Ontario cities despite substantive efforts by the province to reduce local tax pressures.”

In 2012, the City of Sault Ste. Marie will receive $18,431,700 under the OMPF grant and also $12,294,700 in benefits form the uploading of important services that include:

This year’s provincial funding is 43 per cent higher or $9 million more than what the City received under the previous transfer program. The provincial uploads of social assistance benefit program costs and the OMPF grants alone will provide municipalities in Ontario with $1.8 billion in 2012. When combined with additional investments to reduce city costs such as the provincial gas tax program, increased funding for land ambulance and the uploading of public health costs, the ongoing provincial support to municipalities totals approximately $3.2 billion in 2012.

In addition to improving transfers for municipalities through the OMPF, the province is also providing important supports for seniors in Sault Ste. Marie so they can remain in their homes longer and enjoy a better standard of life. Enhancements to Ontario’s Energy and Property Tax Credit created by the current government are already benefiting 740,000 seniors province wide.

Seniors who own a home are able to claim up to $1,025 annually to help reduce property tax pressures. Seniors living in Northern Ontario who pay rent or property tax for their principle residence and qualify, are also eligible for the annual Northern Ontario Energy Credit of up to $130 for a single person and up to $200 for a family to help with energy costs.

Additionally, seniors in Sault Ste. Marie benefit from the province’s Clean Energy Benefit that reduces electricity bills by 10 per cent of their total monthly bill, which is estimated at $150 per month.

Other Provincial government initiatives supporting the City of Sault Ste. Marie since 2003 include:

o Partnership Fund (OMPF) – 43% increase in 9 years to suppor the cost of municipal services

Feds dump $11M into biosolids facility

Finance Minister Tony Clement looks on, Dec. 12, as Mayor Marianne Matichuk says a few words, during the announcement of federal funding for upgrades to Sudbury's wastewater treatment plant. Photo by Arron Pickard

Remember: Walden-CAN meetings are held at 7:00 pm on the 3rd Monday of every month. For more information visit www.Walden-CAN.com or call Neeltje Van Roon at 866-0048.

An ‘uplifting’ experience

Wendy Fahey smiles through the face of a hand-painted bra. Bras like this will be auctioned off at the Holiday Inn on Nov. 11. Photo by Jenny Jelen.

Hand-painted bras support breast cancer group

Algae activity high, but not unusual

Oct 27, 2011

Article By: Scott Haddow, Northern Life

Late October has seen a rush of blue-green algal blooms in lake systems scattered across Greater Sudbury and the surrounding region.

In the last week-and-a-half, blue-green algal blooms have been reported in Nepewassi Lake, the Vermillion River near Whitefish, the Dry Pine Bay area in the North Channel of the French River and most recently in McCharles Lake.

The rush of activity by these botanical menaces, even this late in the year when the weather is starting to remind people winter is coming, is normal.
“This much activity is not unusual,” Sudbury and District Health Unit Environmental Support Officer Allan McDougall said. “We had a long, hot summer with little rainfall and this is the time of the year lakes start to turn over. This action is bringing more blue-green algae to the surface.

“When blue-green algae is on the surface and forms in clumps, this indicates it is dying off and is releasing toxins. There really is no fixed schedule, but with lakes turning over, there is going to be more blue-green algal blooms.”

The Ministry of the Environment advised the Sudbury and District Health Unit that test results from the areas were positive for blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). Samples taken contained a species of cyanobacteria that can produce toxins.

Not necessarily a cause for alarm, residents need to be aware that precautions must be taken to remain safe and healthy in the event of a bloom, the biggest of which is to find another water source.

“We recommend finding an alternative source of water, not just for now, but for the future,” McDougall said. “Once it forms in a lake, it will come back. It’s also migratory. It isn’t anchored and the wind can move it around quite a bit in a lake. Water in one area could be good one day and not the next.”

The highest concentrations of toxins are usually found in blooms and scum on the shoreline. These dense accumulations pose the greatest potential risks to people and pets, and can irritate the skin and, if ingested, can cause diarrhea and vomiting. At high enough levels, toxins can cause liver and nervous system damage.

“So far in 2011, there have been 32 blooms confirmed as blue-green algae in Ontario,” Ministry of Environment senior regional spokesperson Michel Finn said. “Nine of those blooms have been reported in Sudbury. You have to take those numbers into consideration because there are a lot of lakes in Ontario.”

Ontario has some 250,000 lakes, according to the Ministry of Natural Resources.
The number of blue-green algal incidents could rise for the year 2011.
“We’ll probably have more reports because people are more aware of blue-green algae now because of increased public awareness,” McDougall said.

Contaminated water will have a pea soup appearance and a foul smell similar to rotting grass. Anyone finding algal blooms can contact the Sudbury and District Health Unit or the Ministry of the Environment.

Dams would exacerbate blue-green algae issues - Linda Heron

Oct 26, 2011, Letter to the Editor…published in Northern Life

It is time to recognize the cumulative effects of dumping effluent from nine wastewater treatment plants into the Vermillion River Watershed is having dangerous effects on the Vermillion River and its connecting lakes.

Cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, has been reported all the way from Simon Lake, McCharles Lake, into the Vermillion River system, as far down as Wabagishik Lake. Many citizens rely on the Vermillion River for their drinking water, for bathing and food preparation.

Cyanobacteria produce toxins that are at least a nuisance, but at their worst are life-threatening to people, pets and wildlife.
There are currently four proposals for hydroelectric dams in the area going through the environmental assessment (EA) process.

Gord Miller, the environmental commissioner for Ontario, states in his 2007/2008 annual report that “the EA process is broken, and there is no possibility of an outcome.”

These types of dams will hold water back for up to 48 hours to produce power during peak demand hours at a 50-per-cent bonus to the developer, and are purported to produce green energy, but in fact produce dirty energy.
There are numerous studies to back up this claim, including ones by Health Canada and the MNR.

Water levels and flow have been so low these last few summers that it is hard to imagine how a developer could make money-producing energy on these rivers. They actually couldn’t without the peaking bonus offered by the FIT Program.

We are already having trouble with cyanobacteria on the Vermillion River without these dams. But what will happen when river water has been sitting in a head pond for up to 48 hours, has an opportunity to warm in the sun for a few days, and has the additional loading of five upstream wastewater treatment facilities pumping their effluent into this upper arm of the Vermillion River?

And then, this water blends with the additional four wastewater plants pumping effluent from the Simon Lake end of the Vermillion River watershed.

For the protection of its citizens, city council must ensure these dams are not built. There are 13,000 people alone receiving water from the Vale Public Water Intake on this upper arm of the Vermillion, not to mention the people living along the Vermillion River system who rely on this water for their daily needs.

Sudbury must also take positive steps, in a timely fashion, towards ensuring that all nine of their wastewater treatment facilities are equipped with tertiary treatment – primary and secondary treatment is no longer adequate with climate change now upon us.
We must ensure healthy river systems and clean water for our future generations.

Linda Heron
Chair, Vermillion River Stewardship

Volunteer Canada Conveys Best Practices on Volunteer Screening during CBC TV Media Interviews, and more

-- The 10 Safe Steps of Screening Offer Guidelines for Best Practice --

On Friday, October 21, 2011, CBC’s The Fifth Estate aired an investigative report examining how Scouts Canada and the Boy Scouts of America dealt with cases of sexual abuse, and how cases were recorded and shared with authorities. In responding to this breaking news story, Volunteer Canada was able to highlight best practices on volunteer screening, including the 10 Safe Steps of Screening available on www.volunteer.ca/screening.

The report alleges that Scouts Canada kept a confidential list of volunteers suspected of sexual abuse, and says the organization kept the information hidden from the police. Scouts Canada denied the accusations and their spokesperson John Petitti said the organization keeps records of suspension and termination, and shares the information with police and youth protection services.

The CBC has also uncovered more than a dozen civil cases accusing Scouts Canada of failing to protect children from abuse. For more information, see the latest article on the issue from CBC News. The full Fifth Estate piece is available online, as is a CBC news story outlining the report. Friday's investigative report by The Fifth Estate has sparked a raft of national news coverage, including best practices surrounding volunteer screening.

Bringing Best Practices of Screening to the Forefront

Ruth MacKenzie, President and CEO of Volunteer Canada, was interviewed by CBC TV for a news segment that aired nationally this past Friday as part of local CBC evening news broadcasts. Audio from MacKenzie's CBC TV interview also aired on various local CBC radio news reports. On Saturday morning, MacKenzie appeared live on CBC Newsworld in an interview with reporter Nancy Wilson.

In media interviews, Volunteer Canada did not speculate on Scouts Canada’s past screening practices and protocols. Volunteer Canada focused on issues related to volunteer screening. Among the many important core messages conveyed by Ruth MacKenzie were the following:

Screening involves much more than police record checks. While police record checks are one of the 10 Safe Steps of Screening, screening is a comprehensive process meant to keep vulnerable people safe.
Canadians can learn more about volunteering screening at www.volunteer.ca/screening, including detailed information about the 10 Safe Steps of Screening.
Parents should take the important first step of asking organizations to detail their screening practices before children are entrusted with volunteers.
If a volunteer is accused of abuse, the organization should follow best practices and suspend the volunteer as well as alert Police Services and Child Protection Services. All measures should be in accordance with provincial law.
It is of the utmost importance to ensure the privacy of volunteers accused of abuse, as these people may ultimately be proven not guilty. While records should be shared with law enforcement and child protection agencies, they should otherwise be kept confidential in accordance with privacy legislation.

Image removed by sender. Volunteer Canada’s Work on Screening

Volunteer Canada is planning to host national dialogues on screening as a first step to re-establish the National Educational Campaign on Screening. The discussion aims to identify the current issues and challenges in the voluntary sector. This will help us develop our pan-Canadian screening campaign, in collaboration with local volunteer centres and provincial associations. The program will raise awareness of the importance of screening, and build sector capacity to conduct comprehensive screening practices.

Volunteer Canada, in partnership with the RCMP, offered a series of webinars on the 10 Safe Steps of Screening and an overview of the process for obtaining Vulnerable Sector Checks. More than 400 people working in the voluntary sector attended the workshops, from organizations that provide services to seniors, people with disabilities, those requiring home-support services, day cares, and youth-serving agencies. Another webinar series is in the works, and will be announced on www.volunteer.ca.

In the mid-1990s, Volunteer Canada launched the National Educational Campaign on Screening, including the 10 Safe Steps of Screening. The program was meant to mitigate abuse toward vulnerable people and to raise awareness of the importance of properly screening volunteers. The initiative was a key resource in the development of the National Sex Offender Registry, a Canada-wide database accessible to police services. Both programs have enhanced the standards and practices of volunteer screening in the past 15 years. While these initiatives have greatly improved the protection of vulnerable people, there is still more work to do to raise awareness of these best practices and to facilitate collaboration among key players.

The following are links to some of the current top news stories on the issue:

CBC News – Scouts Canada settlements kept secret: http://bit.ly/qvC1NE

CBC News – Scouts Canada kept “confidential list” of pedophiles: http://bit.ly/npD0mV

The Globe and Mail – Scouts Canada urged to open its secret files on alleged sex abusers: http://bit.ly/p4yYAE

The National Post – No secret files on suspected abusers, Scouts Canada says: http://natpo.st/nLvbAk

Tell us what you think. Visit the Volunteer Canada Facebook page and share your thoughts on volunteer screening.

Volunteer Canada – The National Voice for Volunteerism in Canada

With more than 30 years of passionate commitment to the cause of volunteering and civic participation, Volunteer Canada inspires Canadians to be engaged from coast to coast. Volunteer Canada develops programs, leads national initiatives, creates tools, and conducts vital research for the non-profit sector, including critical work on best practices in volunteer screening.

Focused on influencing social policy and developing valuable resources around volunteerism, the organization helps non-profits and businesses build capacity for the changing culture of volunteerism. It recognizes the impact of Canada’s 12.5 million volunteers through national campaigns and works with its Corporate Council on Volunteering to catalyze conversations about corporate community involvement. Volunteer Canada works collaboratively with volunteer centres, business, and non-profit organizations to support volunteerism and the ultimate agents of social change, Canada’s volunteers.

For more information, please contact:

Graham Machacek, Director of Marketing Communications and Business Development:

gmachacek@volunteer.ca; (613) 231-4371 ext. 226

Phoebe Powell, Communications Coordinator:

ppowell@volunteer.ca; (613) 231-4371 ext. 244

Angela Evans hits a high note

Lively-born singer Angela Evans is performing at the Global Woman Summit in Washington, D.C. Oct. 8 and 11. Supplied photo.

Oct 06, 2011

By: Jenny Jelen - Sudbury Northern Life Staff

Angela Evans is at a new place in her life, which has brought her to a new place in her career.

The Lively-born songstress, formerly known as Angela Nussey, went through a “transition” about five years ago.

While living in Toronto, change began to happen when she realized that she was responsible for the way she was feeling. Positive, like-minded people began to surround her, and her life took an upward spin. “It all came together as one whole package.”

The result of her metamorphosis was "Still Hope". The album is full of “hopeful, empowering and inspiration music,” Evans said.

“We've had some great feedback (about the album),” she said. Confirmation of her successes came with an invitation to perform at the Global Woman Summit.

On Oct. 8 and 11, Evans will take the stage in Washington, D.C., at the same conference speakers like Barack Obama, Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey will be headlining.

“I think they chose me because they understood what my message is and realized that it would be a perfect fit for a celebration of ideas and conversation like this,” Evans stated.

“I wanted to create music that can make you feel good while still holding true to the issues and values that I see as being at the forefront of change. It’s one thing to hear words of inspiration – it’s quite another to tap your feet to them.”

If you can't catch her in Washington, Evans will be in Sudbury this November. She is speaking and singing at the ???

She will also be making an appearance in Sudbury this year as a Keynote speaker at the "i wanna feel good" conference, held in November.

For more information about Evans at www.officialangelaevans.com

Deadline looms for decision on School of Architecture

Sep 15, 2011

By: Arron Pickard - Sudbury Northern Life Staff

There was no real clear indication of where councillors stand on the proposed location for the School of Architecture following presentations by both Downtown Sudbury and the Market Square Vendors' Association.

Downtown Sudbury chair Jeff MacIntyre asked council to vote based on facts when the time comes to to decide whether or not to allow Laurentian University to build its school on property currently occupied by Market Square.

It would mean the many vendors who sell their wares on weekends would be forced to set up shop elsewhere.

“The business owners have been loud and clear to (Downtown Sudbury), but we need to see the school open as soon as possible,” MacIntyre said. “This shouldn't be treated as the School of Architecture vs. Market Square; rather, it should be about having the best possible downtown we can have.”

The School of Architecture would be a 75,000-square-foot facility with the capacity to accommodate 400 students and 40 faculty members.

Laurentian University conducted a survey of the downtown area, and it was determined through that study that Market Square is the best location for the School of Architecture due to its size and the fact it is the only location with the potential to be ready for a 2013 opening.

Most councillors around the table agreed that both the school and the market are important for the city, but they have yet to be made aware of all the details of the proposal by Laurentian University.

In fact, Laurentian University has requested an audience with council for Sept. 28. That's the day council is expected to give its decision on the fate of Market Square.

Anyone who wants more information about the proposal is encouraged to attend a consultation session on Sept. 19 at St. Andrew's Place from 5:30-8 p.m. The session will also provide an opportunity for the public to present their thoughts on the future of Market Square.

-Posted by Arron Pickard

Therapy pets connect with students, seniors

Mary Lang, a resident at Red Oak Villa, had the chance to meet Ruffles, a Magical Paws Therapy Dog, and her owner Jeannine Feeley, during a visit to the retirement home. Photo by Jenny Jelen.

May 31, 2011

www.northernlife.ca

By: Jenny Jelen - Sudbury Northern Life Staff

As Louise Parr stroked the long red wavy coat of Ginger, she told the dog’s handler about the dachshund she used to own.

“I had one the same colour,” Parr told Lisa Anderson.

Now that she lives at Red Oak Villa, Parr said having therapy dogs visit once a month is “the next best thing” to having her own pet, which is not allowed at the retirement home.

“It just makes me feel good petting them and hugging them,” she said.

Debbie Gaudet, manager of recreational services at Red Oak Villa, said having Magical Paws Pet Therapy visit “just pleases the residents so much.”

Every time the dogs visit, Gaudet said about 15 residents gather in the common room to pet them, feed them treats and watch them do tricks.

“It brings the group together,” she said. It gives residents the opportunity to socialize not only with the dogs but with each other, she added.

Annette Lumbis, co-ordinator of Magical Paws Pet Therapy, said “there is such a need” for programs like Magical Paws.

There are chapters of the organization throughout the north, including Elliot Lake and Sturgeon Falls.

Lumbis, who is a dog owner herself, said the animals have a certain “magic” about them. It’s something with which people can easily connect.

While people in schools, group homes, retirement homes and nursing homes enjoy visits from Magical Paws, so do the 55 handlers and 60 pets involved in the non-profit organization that started this May.

“Everybody benefits,” Lumbis said.

Students and residents in homes get to share quality time with animals capable of unconditional love.

“Seeing a dog reminds them of what it was like to have their own home,” Lumbis said.

It also brings back happy memories of owning pets and loving and caring for them.

The animal companions in Magical Paws like it, too.

Lumbis said dogs and cats love soaking up the “undivided attention” given to them by students and residents.

Animal handlers benefit by spending time with their best four-legged friends in a relaxing environment.

Lumbis said some handlers are apprehensive about joining the program, but soon find that it benefits them and their pets.

Handlers often report feeling “much better” after visiting a site, especially if they’ve had a rough day.

Positives also exist for children and teens who help their parents handle a pet.

Lumbis said when the group visits facilities, handlers often end up engaging with residents.

She said it is a great way for kids to learn about the lifestyles of seniors and others with whom they may not otherwise connect.

For more information about Magical Paws, phone Lumbis at 705-693-4912

Note: Magical Paws For Pet Therapy will be participating in the 5^th Annual Fall Fair at the Anderson Farm Museum, Sept.10^th

Walden-CAN embraces community to get projects rolling - Gwen Doyle

Last year, more than 4,000 people came out to take in the Anderson Farm Museum Heritage

Last year, more than 4,000 people came out to take part

in the Anderson Farm Museum Heritage Fall Fair

Jun 09, 2011

www.northernlife.ca

By: Guest Columnist

When the Walden Community Action Network (CAN) formed in November of 2005, one of the key issues identified by the community was the need to preserve and protect, enhance and develop the Anderson Farm Museum as a vital heritage site and a hub for year-round community activities – for the citizens of Walden and Greater Sudbury.

In October 2006 our heritage committee prepared its final report and recommendations to the Walden-CAN, which then formed a heritage task force to: work with the city and its museums to implement the recommendations, create an Anderson Farm Museum site committee and develop action plans.

In 2007, the committee formed the Anderson Farm Museum Heritage Society and became officially incorporated on Sept.22 of that year.

The society focused on repairs and restoration of the museum buildings, repairs to the paddock, renovations to the stable- for year-round use, building display/storage units for the barn loft, restoration of farm equipment.

The society also introduced free annual community events, such as a fall fair, Christmas tree lighting and a summer concert series and developed strong, long-term sponsors and community partners.

It’s exciting to see the Anderson Farm Museum Heritage Society grow and develop each year, working in partnership with Ward 2 Councillor Jacques Barbeau, the mayor and council, Greater Sudbury Museums, city staff and long-term community partners and sponsors, as well as 100-plus volunteers.

The Walden CAN continues to be a key community partner for the Anderson Farm Museum Heritage Society: promoting events and projects etc, using our free communications tools, and having a display at the fall fair.

Our newsletter editor, Forbes Stoodley, acts as emcee for the fall fair and Christmas tree lighting celebration.

The third annual ‘Rock The Farm’ summer series five free concerts and new farmers’ market, kicks-off on Wednesday, June 29.

Tom Fyfe and the Whiskey Rivers Blues Band will perform outside the stable at the Anderson Farm Museum, 6-8pm. Be sure to bring a chair or blanket.

For details call Darryl Orser 705-561-2762.

See www.walden-can.com/anderson_farm_museum.htm or our Calendar of Events at www.walden-can.com/calendar/month.php

And you can purchase local produce and value-added products at our new Rock The Farm farmers’ market, 4-7pm, in the centre court on the musueum site.

For details, call Michelle Fex at 3-1-1. Watch for Updates on www.Walden-CAN.com.

The Anderson Farm Museum Heritage Society’s 5th Annual Fall Fair takes place Sept.10, 10am-4pm.

Last year, more than 4,000 people attended this free community event.

There is something for everyone: live entertainment, displays and demonstrations, art/craft/snack food vendors, farmers’ market, small farm animals, therapy dogs/therapy Llamas, art/craft activities, children’s area, classic cars and antique tractors, and dog agility demonstrations.

The event “Pulling For the Cure” a tug-of-war fundraiser, will be held in the Paddock.

And there will be much more.

For fall fair details go to www.walden-can.com/anderson_farm_museum.htm

Effective, enthusiastic, long-term partnerships are key to the success in solving issues identified by the community – which can grow and develop into long-term success stories.

Gwen Doyle is the communications coordinator for the Walden Community Action Network. www.Walden-CAN.com


OVERVIEW OF FEARS, PHOBIAS AND ANXIETIES IN DOGS AND CATS What is fear? What is a phobia? What is anxiety? Is it possible to prevent fears, phobias and anxieties? How can these problems of fears and phobias be treated?

What is fear? Fear is a physiologic, behavioral and emotional reaction to stimuli that an animal encounters. The physiologic reaction results in an increase in heart rate, increased respiratory rate (panting), sweating, trembling, pacing and possibly urination and defecation. Behaviorally an animal will exhibit changes in body posture and activity when afraid. The animal may engage in an avoidance response such as fleeing or hiding. A fearful animal may assume body postures that are protective such as lowering of the body and head, placing the ears closer to the head, widened eyes, and tail tucked under the body. If the animal perceives a threat, the response can also include elements of defensive aggression. Whether an animal fights or flees when frightened depends on its genetic predisposition, previous experience (what it has learned from similar situations in the past) and the environment that it is in (see below). The emotional reaction in animals can be difficult to gauge because animals are non-verbal. However, by observation of body postures and facial expressions it is possible to conclude that an animal is afraid. On the other hand, pets may modify their behavioral responses with repeated exposure to the stimuli if the stimulus has been successfully removed by aggression or if escape has been successful. Therefore what you see at the present time may not be the same as when the problem first began. Is fear ever an abnormal response in animals? In many situations it is acceptable and understandable" for an animal to be afraid. However, there are times when animals exhibit fear when it is maladaptive or dangerous for humans. When animals are frightened they may become aggressive (fight), run away (flight), or stay still (freeze). The response a pet exhibits depends on the pet's personality, the type of stimulus, previous experience with the stimulus, whether it is on its own property (where it is more likely to fight), whether it is in the presence of offspring or family members (where it is more likely to fight), or whether it is cornered or restrained and unable to escape (where it is more likely to fight). What is a phobia? This is an intense response to a situation that the animal perceives as fear inducing. The response is out of proportion to the stimulus and is maladaptive. Common phobias in animals involve noises and places. Phobic responses have physiologic, behavioral and emotional responses similar to fear, but they are extremely exaggerated. See our handout on canine fears and phobias What is anxiety? The human definition of anxiety is a diffuse feeling of impending danger or threat. It appears that animals can exhibit this diffuse type of anxiety, often manifested as generalized anxious behavior in either specific situations (the veterinary hospital, new locations) or in a non-specific way (anything out of the routine schedule or environment). Anxiety is manifested by some of the same physiologic signs as fear, but also may be displayed as displacement or redirected behaviors, destructive behaviors, or excessive vocalization, and may become stereotypic or compulsive over time. What types of stimuli might trigger fears, phobias or anxieties? The triggers for these behaviors are as varied as there are breeds of dogs and cats. Animals may be frightened of people, other animals, places or things. Others may only respond with fear or phobia in one particular situation such as toward a thunderstorm. What causes fearful, phobic or anxious responses? Sometimes fear is the result of an early experience that was unpleasant or perceived by the animal as unpleasant. If the fearful response was successful at chasing away the stimulus, or if the pet escaped from the stimulus, the behavior has been rewarded and therefore is likely to be repeated. Owners that try to stop the behavior by providing treats or affection may actually serve to further reinforce the behavior the animal is performing at that time. Also, it should be noted that punishment, in close association with exposure to a stimulus might further cause fear and anxiety toward that stimulus. If the owner is frustrated or anxious or the stimulus is threatening, this too will further aggravate (and justify) the fear. Finally should the stimulus retreat or be removed du ring a display of fear aggression, the aggressive display will have been reinforced. It does not take an unpleasant experience however for fear to develop. Any stimuli (people, places, sights, sounds, etc.) that a dog or cat has not been exposed to during its sensitive period of development, which is up to 3 months of age in dogs and 2 months in cats, may become a fear evoking stimulus. For example, the dog or cat that is exposed to adults, but not to children, during development may become fearful when first exposed to the sights, sounds or odors of young children. The pet's genetics also contribute to its level of fears and phobias to stimuli. Phobic responses can occur from just one exposure or gradually increase over continued exposure. In many cases of anxiety, neurotransmitter (brain chemical) function and levels may be altered and contribute to the overall behavior. Again, learning or the consequences that follow the phobic response (rewards, escape, punishment) may aggravate the problem. Illness, pain and the effects of aging may lead to an increase in fear or anxiety in situations where there was previously little or no evidence. These changes may change the way a pet perceives or responds to a stimulus. Age related changes in the brain (cognitive decline) or in the sensory system (hearing, sight), arthritis, diseases that affect the hormonal system such as an increase or decrease in thyroid hormones or an overactive pituitary gland (Cushing's) and organ decline (liver, kidneys) are just a few examples of health and age related problems that might contribute to increasing fear and anxiety. Therefore, for any pet with fear or anxiety, but especially those that are intense, generalized, have any other concurrent signs or do not arise until adulthood or older age, a full physical examination and some blood tests if indicated would be warranted. Is it possible to prevent fears, phobias and anxieties? A good program of socialization and exposure to many new and novel things while an animal is young can be helpful in preventing fears and phobias. However, in the phenomena of "one trial" learning, an event is so traumatic that only one exposure can create fears, phobias or anxieties. Socialization and fear prevention for dogs and socialization and fear prevention in cats are covered in separate handouts. Owner responses when their pet experiences a new situation that could potentially be frightening are important. Calm reassurances, happy cheerful tones, and relaxed body postures of owners help pets experience new things without fear. Bringing along treats and play toys and giving them to the pet when it enters new environments (e.g. veterinary clinic, schoolyard) or when it meets new people or other pets can help turn the situation into one that is positive. Conversely, if you show anxiety, apprehension or frustration with your pet, or if you try to use punishment to stop undesirable behavior, you will likely make your pet more anxious. Knowing your pet and their individual temperament will help determine what situations you can and should expose your pet to. How can these problems of fears and phobias be treated? Each time your pet is exposed to an anxiety, fear, or phobia-inducing situation and cannot be made to calm down, the problem is likely to worsen. Finding a way to control, relax, calm, or distract your pet in the presence of the stimulus is needed to correct the problem and to teach your pet that there is nothing to be feared. A pet's fear and anxiety will be lessened by an owner who is calm and in control. For most cases of fear, behavior modification techniques, where the pet is exposed to mild levels of the stimuli and rewarded for non-fearful behavior, are utilized. For low levels of fear or anxiety, especially when the pet is being exposed to new stimuli, many pets will calm down with continued exposure, as long as nothing is done to aggravate the fear. These retraining techniques are discussed in our handout on Behavior modification - desensitization and counter-conditioning. Consequences that reinforce the fearful behaviors (inadvertent rewards or retreat of the stimulus) or aggravate the fear (punishment) must be identified and removed. Exposures to stimuli that have an unpleasant or negative outcome (e.g. an aggressive dog, a child that pulls the dog's tail) also serve to instill further fear. Drug therapy may also be a useful adjunct to behavior therapy techniques and may be necessary in the treatment of some phobias.
This client information sheet is based on material written by Debra Horwitz, DVM, Diplomate ACVB & Gary Landsberg, DVM, Diplomate ACVB © Copyright 2005 Lifelearn Inc. Used with permission under license. December 29, 2006

CANs ‘bring people together’ to build communities

More than 50 people gathered at the Colonial Inn in Coniston May 5 for the city’s Community Action Network (CAN) Summit.Photo by Kimberley Wahamaa.

More than 50 people gathered at the Colonial Inn in Coniston May 5 for the city’s Community Action Network (CAN) Summit. Photo by Kimberley Wahamaa.

May 16, 2011

By: Guest Columnist

Kimberly Wahamaa

Your CAN News

The Coniston Community Action Network (CAN) had the pleasure to host this year’s Community Action Network (CAN) Summit, held May 5 at the Colonial Inn in Coniston.

More than 50 people from the 16 CANs within the City of Greater Sudbury attended the summit.

The event opened at 5 p.m., with many booths on display. The Parkside Centre, EarthCare Sudbury, Sudbury and District Health Unit, City of Greater Sudbury Recreation Services, Rainbow Routes, Greater Sudbury Climate Change

Consortium and the Sudbury Food Connections Network all had booths set up.

The Coniston CAN’s vice-chair, Wyman McKinnon, welcomed the CAN members to Coniston, and introduced council members.

Catherine Matheson, the city’s general manager of community development, provided an update on the Healthy Community Cabinet. Matheson also distributed a booklet identifying the city’s healthy living initiatives.

A hand-out on the CANs’ terms of reference was provided by Chris Gore, the city’s manager of community partnerships.

A Community Gardens update was presented by Diana Mounce, food charter animator for the Sudbury Food Connections Network–Ward 1 CAN.

Mounce presented a slideshow of the community gardens in various communities. For more information on the gardens, visit sudburyfoodconnections.blogspot.com

A networking session table discussion took place, and all of the CANs shared experiences of what is working in their communities.

Many of the CANs have their own websites and send out newsletters. Some send out inserts in Northern Life. Many of the CAN members expressed concerns that not many people know what a CAN is.

We decided to start a Northern Life column for CANs to help spread the word on what is going on in your community. CAN members, please send materials to kimberley@nob.on.ca for this column.

We encourage you to join the CAN in your area. CANs bring people together to build a healthy community.

Healthy communities are strong and vibrant. They emerge from the collaborative efforts of citizens who care about where they live and want to make their neighbourhoods the best they can possibly be.

CANs provide resources to make this happen.

For information about forming a Community Action Network (CAN) in your area, phone the City of Greater Sudbury at 311.

Kimberley Wahamaa is the operations manager at Northern Ontario Business and publicity and marketing coordinator for the Coniston CAN.

Coming together in the spirit of co-operation

Steve Miller, chief of Atikameksheng Anishnawbek (formerly the Whitefish Lake First Nation) and Richard Bois, a representative of the Ojibway Road Campers’ Association, check over a lease signed between the two parties in December. They say the new lease deal, retroactive to April 1, 2010, is superior to a previous lease administered by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada. Photo by Heidi Ulrichsen

Steve Miller, chief of Atikameksheng Anishnawbek (formerly the Whitefish Lake First Nation) and Richard Bois, a representative of the Ojibway Road Campers’ Association, check over a lease signed between the two parties in December. They say the new lease deal, retroactive to April 1, 2010, is superior to a previous lease administered by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada. Photo by Heidi Ulrichsen

May 04, 2011

By: Heidi Ulrichsen - Sudbury Northern Life Staff

Steve Miller, chief of Atikameksheng Anishnawbek (formerly the Whitefish Lake First Nation), is the first to admit that relations between campers’ associations and First Nations in Ontario have not always been the best.

In some cases, negotiations between First Nations and the campers leasing their land have lead to a “long, drawn out” process, he said.

But thankfully, that’s never been the case for Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and the Ojibway Road Campers’ Association, Miller said. The two groups have always approached each other with a spirit of co-operation.

“We’ve always communicated well,” Miller said. “The door has always been open with the chief and council, as well as with their organization. We see how we can help each other out with projects we have on the go.”

After meeting 11 times last fall, the Ojibway Road Campers’ Association and Atikameksheng Anishnawbek inked a new lease deal in mid-December.

“There were times when there were things put on the table that we couldn’t agree to,” Richard Bois, who chaired the negotiation team for the Ojibway Road Campers’ Association, which represents cottagers on 90 lots on the band’s land bordering Lake Penage, said.

“We’d counter that and put something different on the table that would work. You eventually get to something you both can live with.”

Both parties say the new lease deal, retroactive to April 1, 2010, is superior to a previous lease administered by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada.

The new lease sets out clearer terms for rent increases, Bois said.

It uses average Bank of Canada lending rates as the basis for the increases for the first five years of the lease, and after that, average cost of living increases.

The old lease takes into account land value appraisals, which can be unpredictable, when it comes to rent increases, he said.

Leases between campers and First Nations were previously administered by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada.

However, as of 2008, bands are allowed to control their own land, which includes administering leases. The new lease deal worked out between the two parties is for 25 years, but gives the opportunity for two five-year extensions, bringing it to 35 years.

Those campers who wish to do so are allowed to stay under the terms of the old Indian and Northern Affairs Canada lease, which has 17 years left on it, but Bois said his association recommends they sign the new lease with the First Nation.

Working out a new lease agreement was worth it for Bois, who has owned a camp on Lake Penage since 1975.

He said the lake has to be the “best” in the area, given its large size, good water quality, road access and proximity to Sudbury.

Committee concerned about proposed Vermilion dams

Apr 11, 2011

By: Martha Dillman - Sudbury Northern Life

Four dams are proposed to be built on the Vermilion River by 2015, and members of Vermilion River Stewardship are expressing their concerns about the project.

Toronto-based Xeneca is proposing to build four hydroelectric dams on the Vermilion River. The dams would be located at McPherson Falls, Cascade Falls, Soo Crossing and Wahagishik Rapids.

Linda Heron, chair of Vermilion River Stewardship and interim chair of the Ontario Rivers Alliance, said her groups are concerned about the projects because they include a “modified peaking” method.

This is a method where they hold water back until their head ponds are full, Heron said.

“There’s no clear information...(about) how often they’ll be holding water back and letting it go in a day,” she said.

“When they hold that water back it has...the potential of negative impact both upstream and downstream of the holding ponds because when...the water is in the holding ponds, it can warm.”

Heron said if the water temperature rises, it can cause an increase in bacteria and algae.

“That can affect aquatic life, and we’re also worried about people who have wells on the river, because it stirs up the sediment in the bottom of the river,” she said.

“This has been a mining town for close to 100 years and who knows what’s all in the bottom of that river.”

The project is currently in the environmental assessment (EA) stage. Mark Holmes, vice-president, corporate affairs with Xeneca, said at this point, information about the project is still being gathered.

Holmes also said the project would provide an economic benefit to the area.

“Water power aids gross revenue charges of approximately $5 million per megawatt,” he said. “For the powerhouses that are located within the municipality, that money goes back to the municipality.”

Holmes confirmed that three of the proposed dams fall within the limits for the City of Greater Sudbury.

He said a survey needs to be completed on the Wabagishik dam to determine if it falls within the city limits or not.

Holmes presented the proposal to the Greater Sudbury policy committee March 23. During the March 30 city council meeting, Ward 2 Coun. Jacques Barbeau questioned representatives from the Nickel District Conservation Authority about the project.

“The Vermilion River certainly supplies a large number of residents in Lively, Whitefish, Naughton and Copper Cliff with our drinking water,” he said. “What role (does) the Source Water Protection play with that project?”

Judy Sewell, project manager of the Drinking Water Source Protection program, said her organization is ready to view more information.

“We’re certainly waiting for the project plan to come out,” she said.

Sewell also said the Drinking Water Source Protection program will review the project proposal to see what it does to the drinking water source.

“We’ve also been in contact with the Ministry of Natural Resources who has also been involved in reviewing proposals for small hydro projects,” she said.

“Their view to source water is that these projects can go

Open House at Walden Fire Stations No. 6 & 8

…An Educational Experience!

April is recruitment time for Greater Sudbury Volunteer Firefighters and therefore District Chief Mike St. Jean organized Open Houses for April 2^nd from Noon to 16:00, at Fire Stations No. 5,6 & 8. It was a chance to meet some of our Ward 2 Volunteer Firefighters, learn about their on-going training and see the fire-fighting equipment.

My husband and I decided to visit the Volunteer Firefighters at Fire Stations No. 6, at Black Lake Rd. and #8 in Whitefish. Although we’ve lived in Lively 36 years, we had never been inside the Whitefish Fire Station and hadn’t visited Station No. 6 since the 1990’s. It was an eye-opening experience!

We started in Whitefish- at Fire Station No. 8- where we could see the flashing red lights and fire-fighting vehicles on display in the parking lot, people standing around and a BBQ. It was great meeting some of the Volunteer Firefighters and seeing their fire-fighting equipment: Pumper 8- 2003 Freightliner FL106, Tanker 8- 2004 Freightliner FL80, Bush 8- 1983 Dodge Power Ram 350/Perriville mini-pump and Rescue 8- 1992 GMC step van rescue – as described on Wikipedia.

Did you know there are 350 Volunteer Firefighters in CGS and only approximately 107 career Firefighters? Station No. 5, 6, 7, 8 & 9 are manned by Volunteer Firefighters and they need more Volunteer Firefighters.

(FYI: No.7 is located in Lively beside the laundry mat and No.9 is located in Beaver Lake behind the Tourist Information Centre) Luckily, by the time we arrived at 1:30pm, 3 people had already come in to find out more about becoming a Volunteer Firefighter!

Did you know that Pumper 8 cannot leave in response to a 911 call until 2 Volunteer Firefighters arrive at Station 8? More than one person is needed to successfully fight the fire. They showed us the MAP of the huge territory they serve- from Blueberry Hill to Nairn Hill. It’s hard to imagine how they can respond so quickly from home or work- 24/7! This year they have already responded to a roof fire, chimney fire and a vehicle on fire etc

Did you know the Fire Station has a Binder with Maps–sorted alphabetically by road- showing sources of water, so that they can fill the Pumper trucks? This information is vital when there are no hydrants nearby. In winter, they have to hack through the ice to pump out the water.

Next we went to Fire Station No. 6, on Black Lake Rd. The first thing we saw was the huge ladder of Aerial 6-205 American Lafrance Eagle and Tanker 6- 1999 GMC C8500/Almonte on display in the parking lot.

Did you know that 4 firefighters-in full gear- can sit in the back seats (which have air tanks) and attach their air tanks before bucking-up- so they’re all ready to go when they jump out of the truck? I had a chance to sit up in the back seat- during my personal tour with Volunteer Firefighter Marc Morin. It’s air-conditioned too. Marc pointed out the special camera, which can detect heat sources in structures- vital to locate people.

As we walked around Aerial 6 Marc opened all the various compartments along the sides of Aerial 6- filled with everything from chain saws (to cut into roofs), axes, ropes, blocks/boards, hoses of various thicknesses to a generator etc. Every available space is utilized.

Did you know that Aerial 6 was dispatched to every house fire in Walden? Aerial 6 cannot leave Station No.6 until 2 firefighters arrive. And Tanker trucks or portable pumps are needed to keep filling the tank, which can empty in 2 minutes. With such a huge territory to service, sometimes it takes up to 35 minutes to arrive on the scene from Black Lake Rd.

Do you know how Support #6- Ford 350 Deisel Van is used at a fire? It’s an air-conditioned space where the firefighters can rest & recover on-site during a fire.

The CGS Volunteer Firefighters respond to thousands of emergency responses per year: structural, wildland and vehicle fires; ice/water rescues; vehicle extrications; land search and rescues; carbon monoxide and fire alarm calls and medical aid calls.

Do you know what you should do it your Carbon Monoxide Detector goes off? Call 911 and get out of your home or building immediately or if you have a cell phone, call from outside. Let the Fire Department discover what’s wrong. They have the proper equipment. Carbon Monoxide has no smell and can kill you. Don’t be afraid to call 911.

We really enjoyed meeting the Volunteer Firefighters at Fire Stations No. 6 & 8. We both learned a lot! Sincere appreciation to our Volunteer Firefighters, for their commitment and dedication to responding 24/7 to emergencies in our communities.

Gwen & Paul Doyle, Lively

Photographer creates book of local landscapes

Photographer Don Johnston snapped this photo near his Lively home. In his publication, Close to Home, more than 150 photos highlight Greater Sudbury scenes. Supplied photo.

Photographer Don Johnston snapped this photo near his Lively home. In his publication, Close to Home, more than 150 photos highlight Greater Sudbury scenes. Supplied photo.

Feb 04, 2011

By: Jenny Jelen - Sudbury Northern Life Staff

Don Johnston has seen the world through a lens, but he said it’s not necessary to travel to far-off places to capture stunning landscapes.

“(Photographers) all lust after going to Antarctica and Iceland and exotic locales...but good landscape photography is not a function of place, it’s a function of time,” he said.

In his photo-book Close to Home, he proves just that.

The collection features more than 150 photos taken near his Lively home over the past decade. Some were even taken on his own property.

“The deliberate intent was to include images that were taken close to home,” he said, proving that any location can be photogenic. “It’s a matter of right place and right time. You don’t have to go far to strike it rich.”

Johnston, a former biology teacher, has been shooting photos for about 30 years. He began using slides, then transitioned to digital equipment in 2003.

He said he likes knowing how his images turn out the second they’re taken.

“There’s much less uncertainty,” he said.

Even though he does have professional-grade equipment and software, he said taking time to find the perfect shot in nature produces a much better image than using technology to alter it.

“My mantra is to spend as little time on an image on the computer as possible,” he said. “Do it well in the field, necessitating as little processing time as possible.”

However, he said finding that ideal setting in nature can be time-consuming.

Johnston said he keeps his ears on the weather report, and looks forward to clear, frosty winter mornings and light rains in the fall. Knowing when flowers are in bloom helps, too.

Even when the circumstances aren’t bang-on, Johnston said he still likes experimenting with his camera.

While attending a workshop led by Canadian nature photographer Freeman Patterson, Johnston said he learned that “inspiration begins with work.”

Johnston said it was Patterson’s opinion that photographers who seek creative images will be rewarded with better results than those who wait for photos to come to them.

That’s why he doesn’t wait for the right moment — he simply looks for creative ways to shoot within the given conditions.

When Close to Home first came out in December, he was anxious for feedback. Since then, he said the book has received positive reviews from friends and strangers alike.

To purchase a copy of the book, visit Johnston’s website at www.donjohnstonphotos.com and follow the links. Close to Home is also available at a number of local retail shops, listed on the website.

Johnston will be signing copies of the book at Forget-Me-Not Flowers and Gifts in Lively on Feb. 14 from 1-4 p.m.

Two Winter Carnivals in Walden…February 10 –13^th!

Welcome, Bienvenue, Tervetuloa Everyone…to Beaver Lake Winter Carnival! We hope you’ll join us at the Beaver Lake Sports & Cultural Club Fe. 10^th –13^th for our annual Winter Carnival – with fun for everyone! Everything starts on Thursday night with our Euchre Party at 6:30pm.

Join us Friday night for: our Spaghetti Supper at 5pm; Opening Ceremonies with Fireworks at 6pm–followed by performances by a Choir and Jam Session with local musicians.

“…It’s worth noting that the Ariadne Women's Chamber Choir, directed by David Buley, will do a short performance on Friday evening at 6:15 …It’s very worthwhile the drive to Beaver Lake even if we weren't offering fireworks, spaghetti supper, and other local musicians, including Michael LaFramboise (whom I happen to know) on guitar and vocals. Friday night at the Winter Carnival in Beaver Lake will be wonderful - as usual!” Margaret LaFramboise, Worthington

Saturday activities include: Finn Pancake Breakfast 8-11am, Boot Toss and Rolling Pin Toss Contests, Jug Curling, kid’s games, cross-country skiing and Beaver Lake Little Theatre at 6pm.

Come early on Sunday for our Finn Valentine Pancake Breakfast 8-11am and stay for: Kid’s Fishing derby (10 years and under) sponsored by Ramakko’s; Snowmobile Fun Run & a movie.

For more information call Brenda Salo at 866-2919

Walden Winter Carnival is once again here…Feb. 10 –13^th! Join us in Lively for our annual Walden Winter Carnival- with something for everyone- at 3 main SITES: the Anderson Farm Museum, TM Davies Arena, St. James School.

The Anderson Farm Museum: ‘A Sliding Party’ on Friday night, from 6-8pm – with free hot chocolate and cookies served in the Stable and the ‘Extreme’ Cardboard Box Derby on Saturday at 2pm.

T.M. Davies Arena:

Thursday Opening Ceremonies: a Family Skate 5-8pm, Zumba Fitness, upstairs 6-7pm; Cake and refreshments at 7pm and a giant Bonfire at 7:30pm.

Sat/Sun. activities: Ice-Sculpting Demonstrations and new for the kids will be Hamster Balls. Upstairs there will be entertainment for the kids in the morning by ‘Jam Sandwich’, and in the afternoons there will be a Variety Show which will feature: Hoola Hoop & Belly Dance Presentations, the LDSS Bands and many other musicians and dancers.

The annual MUTT Show: starts at Noon Sat. with prizes for: fastest fetch, best costume, fastest eater, shortest legs and curliest tails. Admission a Carnival Button

Boot Hockey: Saturday from 11am –4pm and Sunday 11am-3pm

St. James School: Craft Tables, inflatables, face painting, the Haunted Hallway, balloon animals for the kids and games.

For the schedules, details and Sponsors see www.waldenwintercarnival.com

Come out and have fun at the Walden Winter Carnival! We look forward to seeing everyone!

Lively musician releases second single

Lively native Jamie Byron now has two songs on Canadian country radio. Supplied photo.

Lively native Jamie Byron now has two songs

on Canadian country radio.

Supplied photo.

Jan 25, 2011

By: Sudbury Northern Life Staff

Jamie Byron's second single, ‘That's What Love Does’, was released to Canadian Country Radio at midnight on Jan. 24.

The Lively native's first single from his debut album Dreamin' Don't Get it Done, Song In There Somewhere, has played on radio stations throughout the country, including here in Greater Sudbury. He's also been featured on Country Music Television (CMT) in the past.

Byron said he's not sure what to expect from the new single.

“I guess we'll have to wait and see,” he said.

Byron describes the track, written by Thomas Wade and Tim Taylor, as a “catchy song,” about the feelings that come from falling in love.

For more information about Byron, visit his website at www.jamiebyron.ca.

Lively man tops in ‘positive citizenship’

Master Cpl. Mike Trauner is the To the Top Canada Award winner for 2011. He is seen here at the Ottawa Rehabilitation Centre with his newly fitted prosthetic legs. He is learning to walk again. He lost both his legs and injured his arm after stepping on a roadside bomb in Afghanistan in 2008. Supplied photo

Jan 05, 2011

By: Stacey Lavallie - Sudbury Northern Life Staff

Nothing can keep Lively native Mike Trauner down.

The 31-year-old career soldier, based in Petawawa, served his first tour of duty in Bosnia in 2000. He was scheduled to leave for Afghanistan in the first wave of deployments, but he had broken his back and was still recovering.

When he finally made it to Afghanistan, he stepped on a roadside bomb and lost both of his legs and injured his arm.

The St. Charles College graduate is still serving in the Canadian Forces, even though he’s down two legs. He’s raised $70,000 for the Ottawa Rehabilitation Centre, where he spent 13 months learning how to walk again.

Less than two years later, he ran with the Olympic Torch during the 2010 Vancouver Olympic relay. He raised the International Paralympic Committee’s flag at the 2010 Vancouver Paralympics. He walked the five kilometre Army Run without using his wheelchair. And he’s been presented with a medal of honour from the military

His determination to live a normal life, the example he presents to others and his drive to help others are three of the reasons why Trauner was selected by To the Top Canada as its 2011 Award Winner. The awards program is a privately-run, non-profit organization.

On Jan. 8, Trauner will be presented the award on the front steps of Parliament Hill. The award is presented to “everyday people” who, through their actions, provide an example of “positive citizenship.”

Anyone in Canada can nominate someone who meets the requirements of the award. Trauner said he was unaware he’d been nominated, let alone chosen, until he received the call.

“It’s really special to be nominated,” he said. “When they phoned me at home I didn’t even know I had been nominated. I was in disbelief. I thought someone was just joking, or a telemarketer just pulling something for me. I looked into it a bit more. This goes right at the top of my charts.”

According to Chris Robertson, the administrator of the To the Top Canada program, Trauner was nominated by Sara Sylvestre, a student in Pembroke. He said Sylvestre nominated Trauner after she became aware of his work with several charities in the area.

Master Cpl. Mike Trauner is the To the Top Canada Award winner for 2011. He is seen here with his wife, Leah Cuffe, shortly after receiving the medal of valour. Supplied photo

Master Cpl. Mike Trauner is the To the Top Canada Award winner for 2011. He is seen here with his wife, Leah Cuffe, shortly after receiving the medal of valour. Supplied photo

In 2008, Trauner was serving in Afghanistan. During a foot patrol, he stepped on an improvised explosive device.

The bomb, which packed more of an explosive punch than normal, blew Trauner six metres into the air.

The size of the explosion actually saved his life, he said.

“It was a huge bomb that went off,” he said. “If it was a smaller one, it wouldn’t have thrown me out of the debris rain. The size of the blast threw me about 20 feet, and a lot of the larger debris and shrapnel missed me.”

Trauner had to be resuscitated twice, once at the scene of the explosion and again while on the operating table at Kandahar Air Field. He said he remembers all of it.

“It felt like forever,” he said. “I remember the doctor came up to me and asked me, ‘OK, we’re just going to stabilize you. I just want to know on a pain scale of one to 10, what’s your pain level?’ I said ‘What the...? I’m missing my legs and my arm is busted to hell. How do you think I feel? My pain scale is 20.’”

Later, Trauner was told the doctor was just testing his cognitive skills.

Once stable, he was flown to a hospital in Germany, and then home to Canada. By the time he reached the hospital in Ottawa, he had received 13 bags of blood through transfusions, replacing an entire body’s worth of blood — twice.

“I don’t remember too much of that,” he said. “It was pretty horrible.”

It was while at the rehabilitation hospital that his drive to help others was first noticed. As soon as Trauner was healthy enough to get around, he would visit other patients and encourage them in their rehabilitation.

As soon as he was fitted with legs, he was moving, pushing himself to the limit and providing an example for others.

“I stood up for the first time in February, and I walked six lengths of the bar,” he said. “Which is almost impossible, apparently, because people can’t tolerate the pain and discomfort. I was just determined to get up and go, get it over with.”

Before he left the hospital, he was awarded with a guardian angel pin. The pin is given to those who show an “unselfish effort to comfort, support, and be a daily inspiration.”

Trauner said he is working on his upper body strength so he can meet the physical requirements to remain with the Canadian Forces.

And if it doesn’t work out ?

“I’ll go into politics,” he said.

Whitefish Lake First Nation scores Mike Holmes project

Atikameksheng Anishnawbek, also known as Whitefish Lake First Nation, beat out eight other First Nations entrants to host the Mike Holmes pilot project, Building Homes and Building Skills. File photo.

Dec 23, 2010

By: Sudbury Northern Life Staff

Atikameksheng Anishnawbek, also known as the Whitefish Lake First Nation, has been chosen as the host community for Mike Holmes' Building Homes and Building Skills project.

The project, sponsored by the Assembly of First Nations and the Holmes Group, will renovate homes in the community, construct new energy-efficient homes, and create a "centre of excellence" where First Nations persons will be trained in trades skills by industry professionals.

According to a press release issued by Atikameksheng Anishnawbek, the goal of the project is to create developments in the community and nearby First Nations communities in the areas of design, planning, project management, trades, research and communications.

Atikameksheng Anishnawbek was chosen from proposals from First Nations communities in Ontario. They were selected out of nine proposals.

"The proposal of Atikameksheng Anishnawbek was fittingly named 'G'Wiigwaamnaaniin,' which means 'Our Homes,'" Shawn A-in-chut Atleo, the Assembly of First Nations national chief, stated in a press release issued by the Holmes Group.

"Their submission met, and in fact exceeded, all the necessary requirements that were set out for this project."

Invitations have been sent to the eight other entrants, so they can participate in the pilot project at Atikameksheng Anishnawbek. The reserve is bordered by the Greater Sudbury communities of Naughton and Whitefish.

"I am excited at this opportunity to help build improved sustainable communities with the people of the First Nations," Holmes, star of HGTV's Holmes on Homes and Holmes Inspection, stated.

The project is slated to start in January 2011.

Outstanding Citizens

Dec 23, 2010

By: Sudbury Northern Life Staff

Rob St. Marseille

Rob St. Marseille, president of the Walden Mountain Bike Club, was named the Mountain Bike Contributor of the Year 2010 by the Ontario Cup Association (OCA). This award is given for raising the profile of racing and recreational mountain biking in Ontario.

St. Marseille started building the Naughton cycling trails four years ago and has worked endlessly, improving and maintaining the trails. This summer, the Ontario Summer Games’ mountain bike races were held in Naughton. St. Marseille was responsible for co-ordinating the event, along with readying the trails, along with the help of volunteers.

While participating in races on the Ontario Cup circuit, St. Marseille, who is also an OPP officer and works for Crime Stoppers of Sudbury, “talks up” the Naughton trail system, and has drawn the attention of the OCA.

Pet therapy business opens to help kids learn

By HAROLD CARMICHAEL

Posted on www.thesudburystar.com

Cyrus is no ordinary canine.

As a certified Therapy Dog with Great Minds -- Tutor & Life Coach, a new business that just opened in Greater Sudbury, the 2 1/2-year-old border collie cross has a lot on his plate because his job is to help increase children's attention span, motivation and ability to focus, as well as help develop confidence and empathy while reducing depression, anxiety and physical aggression.

"His job is to help the kids to learn," said owner Elvira Bratfisch of Chelmsford. "He helps the kids to learn to help themselves -- things such as their social skills and reading ... One of the things we do is have kids who have reading difficulties read to the dog and it makes them feel comfortable."

Animal Assisted Therapy is one of several tools used by the new business to help with the educational and mental health needs of children and youth. Another is play therapy, which pushes children to communicate their feelings, learn new ways of thinking and behaving, develop healthy decision-making skills, assist healing from stressful and traumatic events and build health connections between children and caregivers.

Bratfisch, who was worked in the special education field for 15 years, said her job is to make children's lives better.

"I love working with kids," she said. "I love seeing that little light go on, that sparkle in their eye. With Animal Assisted Therapy, the benefits are phenomenal. It's something different. I have always been creative in my work with kids. If something new comes up and is getting new results, let's try it ... I also do play therapy: using play as a tool to help children express their feelings and work through problems."

Great Minds -- Tutor & Life Coach is a mobile service.

"If a client feels better in their home, I will come to their home," she said. "I also have an office and therapy room at my home."

Great Minds -- Tutor & Life Coach can be reached at 919-9878 or by e-mail at elvira@vianet.ca.

CANs take pride in their communities

Northern Life

May 25, 2010

By: Guest Columnist

Kimberley Wahamaa is the event manager at Northern Ontario Business, Northern Life’s sister company, and a committee member with the Coniston Community Action Network.

I had the privilege to represent the Coniston CAN (Community Action Network) at the fourth annual CAN Summit on May 18 at the ParkSide Older Adult Centre.

More than 30 CAN representatives from across the communities of the City of Greater Sudbury attended. When the City of Greater Sudbury was formed, community action networks were established in each of the amalgamated areas.

Their purpose is to promote and improve their communities, and communicate local concerns to municipal council. Whether you are new to your community, a long-time resident, or a new business, attend your monthly CAN committee meetings.

Chris Gore, manager of community partnerships welcomed and chaired the Summit. There were several presenters and a networking opportunity for CANs to share their ideas.

Catherine Matheson, general manager of community development, health community cabinet, presented an overview of the Greater Sudbury Regional Centre of Expertise working together for a healthy sustainable community. Visit www.healthycommunitysudbury.ca

Stephen Monet, manager of environmental planning initiatives, healthy community cabinet (natural environment pillar) gave a presentation on Biological Diversity, Living Landscape: A Biodiversity Action Plan for Greater Sudbury. VETAC — city council’s advisory panel on regreening, will expand the liming, fertilizing, seeding and tree planting projects in our area.

How CAN you get involved?

Plant shrubs and trees on your property. Adopt-a-hill for your group to apply lime and plant trees and shrubs. Join a garden club and learn how to propagate plants for re-greening our city. Volunteer to help with the Ugliest Schoolyard contest. Get involved with local naturalists groups, such as Frog Watch Ontario, Ontario Turtle Tally, Canadian Lake Loon Survey, Christmas Bird Count, Project Feeder Watch, and Marsh Monitoring Programs. Visit www.greatersudbury.ca/biodiversity for more information.

Michelle Fex, Market Square officer, spoke to the group about the Market Square. The 12,000 sq. ft. facility, with 27 indoor vendors and 30 outdoor vendors, is owned and operated by the City of Greater Sudbury. It is open on weekends for a five-month season, drawing more than 65,000 visitors. The Downtown Information Centre will relocate to the Market Square, which opens June 5. Hours of operation will be Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Visit the Market Square and shop local.

Cindy Briscoe, community development co-ordinator, Healthy Community Corner Café advised the CANs about the Healthy Community Recognition Awards, social marketing and the Healthy Community Café, located at Market Square.

Deb McIntosh, executive director of Rainbow Routes Trail Development and Sustainable Mobility Plan, gave an update on plans to increase bike racks on transit buses, offering family day transit passes, bike lockup areas, crosswalks and sidewalks. Visit the city council meeting on June 16 for more information.

A CAN in your community

Azilda
Carole Boileau, 983-1957

Capreol
David Kilgour, 858-1832

Chelmsford
Roger Spencer, 855-0861

Coniston
Jimmy Sartor, 694-3337

Copper Cliff
Joanne Renzoni, 682-0307
Mimi Wiseman, 682-0641 ext. 229

Donovan/Elm West
Lori Wall, 673-9015

Garson/Falconbridge
Paddy Bondi,
693-2001

Minnow Lake
John Lindsay, 525-7526

Onaping Falls
Scott Sagle, 966-3220
Michael Armstrong, 966-2767

South End
Eva Carissimi, 523-9094
Jim Bruni, 523-7481

Valley East
Denis St. Pierre,
969-6057 ext. 204

Walden
Neeltje Van Roon,
866-0048

Ward 1
Tom Murphy, 677-0275
John Katerynuk, 698-9256

Ward 12 (Flour Mill Chapter)
Paul Phillippe, 675-6727

Ward 12 (New Sudbury Chapter)
Cecile Kingsbury, 524-8344
Arthemise Camirand-Peterson, 524-9436

Ward 12 (Uptown Chapter)
Richard Munn, 585-0449

For information about forming a Community Action Network in your area, contact the City of Greater Sudbury at 3-1-1.

Wild at Heart Wildlife Refuge Centre…Helping avoid accidental wildlife ‘kidnappings’ this Spring!

Spring is upon us here in Greater Sudbury and soon we will start seeing some familiar faces around our backyards. Yes, wildlife are becoming active again for the spring and summer seasons!

The Wild at Heart Wildlife Refuge Centre in Lively is active in our community educating people about wildlife. At our centre, we often receive a lot of baby birds and mammals in the spring and summer. Many times, these babies are brought to us- by well-intentioned people- because they thought that the animal was orphaned when it would have been best to have left it alone and called our centre first.

Many animals such as deer and snowshoe hares will leave their young unattended for twelve or more hours. This is a survival technique since the young are born scentless to avoid predators and the babies are too young to follow their mother around. The mother will seek food and return to feed her baby then leave once again. People often will find a baby hare by itself, think that the baby is orphaned, and bring it into our centre. We want to help avoid accidental wildlife “kidnappings” as it may reduce the animal’s chances of survival and cause stress.

Please contact Wild at Heart if you have any questions about wildlife or if you find an animal that you suspect it is orphaned, injured, or sick: (705) 692-4478. Please also visit our website at www.wahrefugecentre.org

Globe & Mail Article, Feb. 2,2010

Weed Killer can turn male frogs into females...Study Finds

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/technology/science/weed-killer-can-turn-male-frogs-into-females-study-finds/article1485580/

Erin Calder

Lake Water Quality Coordinator

City of Sudbury

(w) 674-4455 x 4604

(c) 665-5043

Sudbury groups land provincial money
Jan 21, 2010

By: Sudbury Northern Life Staff

Five local not-for-profit organizations have been awarded a combined total of $216,400 through the provincially-funded Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).

“These organizations are important to the growth and vitality of our community,” said Sudbury MPP Rick Bartolucci, in a press release. “I am proud of our government’s continued support of local services in Sudbury.”

The following organizations received funding:

- $19,000 for the Sudbury Canoe Club to expand the junior program with the purchase additional boats

- $15,000 for the Sudbury Amateur Radio Club to upgrade equipment

- $120,000 for the Social Planning Council of Sudbury to hire a staff member to support its local poverty strategy to benefit vulnerable children and families

- $14,400 for the Walden Cross Country Fitness Club to purchase trail grooming equipment and an all-season rescue sleigh.

- $48,000 for the Whitefish Lake First Nation to purchase fitness equipment and hire a recreational activities coordinator.

Walden Cross-Country Ski club constructs new chalet

The Walden Cross-Country Ski Club has erected a new chalet on the property of the Naughton Ski Trails. The chalet is expected to open mid-January. Pictured is John Mullock, ski club president, Sue Murray, chalet operator, and Harry Sheppard, ski club board member.

By: Laurel Myers - Sudbury Northern Life

After a relaxing jaunt or an exerting sprint through the Naughton cross-country ski trails, skiers will soon have a new place to warm up and unwind, with ample room to stretch their arms and legs.

The Walden Cross-Country Ski Club is building a new ski chalet at the mouth of the trail system, with improved facilities, and additional storage space.

John Mullock, president of the club, said the chalet was a necessary addition primarily because of the rising number of members and day users.

“We had close to 800 members last year... and more than 700 day users,” he said. “We have a jack rabbit and junior development program that involves about 100 kids.”

And once you squished that many kids into the existing 1,000 square foot chalet, Mullock said there was no room left to move. The new 2,400 square foot chalet could accommodate as many as 120 people.

The membership at the club has been steadily increasing over the past five years, due in part to the economic accessibility of skiing, as well as the increased interest in being physically active and healthy, according to Sue Murray, chalet operator. “People are really wanting to be fit now,” she said.

Funding for the project has come through various sources, including $91,000 raised by the club, $20,000 from the city’s stimulus funding, and $10,000 in corporate donations.

The builders — mostly volunteers and members of the club — put the shovel in the ground in October. Mullock said the plan is to have the chalet operational by Jan. 15, 2010.

The additional space will also make it easier for the club to host regional ski races, as well as provide much needed room to store rental equipment.

“Last season, we started doing a school program,” Murray said. “There was probably two classes each week coming out to ski. We had to get more rentals to accommodate the program.”

The new chalet will be completely wheelchair accessible to accommodate the skiers who participate in the Para-Nordic program, which the club launched last year.

“We have more sit-skiers here than they have in most of the province,” Murray said. “With the Para-Nordic program being centred here, we really needed a facility that would accommodate them.”
Harry Sheppard has been skiing on the Naughton trails for years and raved about the quality of the trail system. “They have exceptionally good trails, and that brings the people from the city out here,” he said.
The trail system offers one, three, five and nine-kilometre routes, as well as a three-kilometre loop that is fully lit for night skiing. Trails are groomed to accommodate both traditional and skate skiing.

The youth racers with the club’s junior development program (aged 14-18) will offer ski lessons over the holidays as a fundraiser for their upcoming race season. The lessons will last 45 minutes to one hour and cost $10 per person.

For more information, phone the Walden Cross-Country Ski Club at 692-2321, or visit www.waldenxc.com

The slots brings more than $600,000 back to Sudbury

October 20, 2009 - Northern Life - Posted online

The City of Greater Sudbury is now $644,665 richer, thanks to the Sudbury
Downs' slots.

The earnings are the second-quarter share of the profits the city earns for
hosting the OLG slots at the race track in the former town of Rayside
Balfour. Since opening in Nov. 1999, the facility has attracted more than
5.6 million visitors.

Each facility hosting an OLG slots-at-racetrack facility receives five per
cent of the gaming facility's gross slot machine revenue for the first 450
machines, then two per cent for each additional machine. In total, OLG
issues more than $18.9 million in second-quarter gaming revenue payments to
23 municipalities that host OLG Casinos and OLG slots-at-racetrack
facilities.

"OLD Slots at Sudbury Downs is an important community partner providing
substantial benefits to the City of Greater Sudbury since 1999," stated
Sudbury MPP Rick Bartolucci, in a press release. "Through the sharing of
gaming revenue, we are able to continually invest in our community and
support local initiatives and programs."

The Sudbury Downs and other racetracks, and their horse people also benefit,
receiving 20 per cent of gross slot machine revenue split evenly between
both groups. Since 1998, more than $2.9 billion has been shared between the
groups.

Every year, the Government of Ontario allocates two per cent of gross
revenue from slot machines at casinos and slots-at-racetrack facilities to
the province's problem gambling program for research, treatment and
prevention programs.

An estimated $39 million will be allocated in 2009/2010.

http://forums.greatersudbury.ca/sudburynews/messageview.cfm?catid=168&threadid=10320

Hike for a Hero(PDF)

Southwest bypass plan cuts access to Hwy. 17: Kett

Date Published | Apr. 20, 2009

Terry Kett, former Walden mayor and Greater Sudbury city councillor, said plans by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) for the city's southwest bypass will cut off access to Highway 17 for nearby 1,300 residents and businesses. File photo.

Advertisement
Posted by Sudbury Northern Life Reporter Bill Bradley
Terry Kett, former Walden mayor and Greater Sudbury city councillor, said plans by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) for the city's southwest bypass will cut off access to Highway 17 for nearby 1,300 residents and businesses.

“The latest version of the southwest bypass plan has nasty implications for everyone from Jarvi Road, Moxam Landing Road, and Kanata Road to every home from Bonnie Drive to Hillcrest Drive in the Mikkola area, as well as Fielding Road businesses,” said Kett in a letter he is distributing.

He has formed an action group with other concerned citizens to “protect our homes, families and businesses.”

He is helping to organize a meeting this Tuesday, April 21 at 7 p.m. at the Kinsmen Hall, which is located next door to the Lively Public Library.

Here are his points:

-For those in the Jarvi to Kantola area, the latest MTO version (of the bypass plans) denies residents access to Hwy. 17 at both Jarvi and Kantola- “think of the implications for school buses, emergency vehicles, property values and think of getting to work and back or to shop,” said Kett.

-Up to 15 km would be added to residents' trips to access the bypass, depending on where they live.

-For those in the Mikkola area, the plan states “Moxam Landing and Kantola traffic will use the existing means of access (to Lively) through the Mikkola area" - Bonnie Dr., Patricia, Hillcrest and Mikkola would get the brunt of the new traffic with huge line-ups at the Hillcrest or Westview intersections-it would discourage many from shopping in Lively.

-970 homes would be affected in Mikkola.

-There would be no access for Fielding Road to the bypass - over 1,000 people work on this road - a continual stream of traffic enters and exits Fielding Road using the bypass- “think of all those Fielding Road trucks trying to turn left off of RR55 to get to the bypass,” said Kett.

-The plan continues access to Southview Drive using a service road linking Kantola and Moxam Landing Roads to Jarvi and thus to Southview - “the plan would force too much traffic to use this very poor quality, congested road as it becomes the only way to access the south end. Southview would have no access to the bypass," said Kett.

However, Ward 1 Coun. Joe Cimino said he does not believe Southview Drive would have a lot more traffic as a result of the plan.

He did agree with Kett that there should be an interchange at Fielding Road.

“The MTO got it half right. We want no interchange at Southview Drive and are happy with the flyover we will get. But there should be an interchange at Fielding Road. I do not agree there should be not be an interchange there,” said Cimino.

He said Southview Drive residents have complained they were getting heavy transport traffic off the bypass for years.

Cimino said what the MTO has done is shift the problems Southview Drive has experienced to the Hillcrest subdivision area.

“An interchange at Fielding would leave Hillcrest the quiet neighbourhood it has been all along. Instead, they will inherit our problems with the new plan,” he said.

Cimino also refuted Kett's contention that there should be an interchange at Southview Drive.

“An interchange at Southview, as was originally presented by MTO, would significantly increase traffic off the bypass. Residents do not want that or what exists today.”

He said he suggested to MTO officials that if they put an interchange in, they should extend the Big Nickel Road to Southview Drive and block off the residential area, allowing truck traffic to avoid the residential area on Southview Drive.

“MTO did not want anything to do with that. They do not want to take responsibility
for the effects their projects will have on the surrounding area.”

Meanwhile Cimino said he has been fighting to reduce existing traffic congestion on Southview Drive.

“Coun. Jacques Barbeau and I have been co-operating on this since we were elected.”

He said city council will spend up to $130,000 to calm traffic on Southview Drive as a way to promote a safer neighbourhood.

He said it took countless phone calls to trucking firms to pull their trucks away from Southview Drive.

“Southview Drive is a no truck zone, but it has been used as a short cut to get to Vale Inco by connecting to Kelly Lake Road, then to Copper Cliff. We have bylaw officers and police out there along with signage to discourage trucks coming off the by-pass on to Southview Drive. An interchange at Southview would reverse all that effort and make it worse.”

Ward 2 Coun. Jacques Barbeau echoed Cimino's remarks.

“I have put a lot of effort into this myself, to resolving this issue. By having a flyover at Fielding Road, the MTO may be making it safer at Kantola Road, but they are creating five more problems, especially in the Hillcrest subdivision area.”

Barbeau said city council will be having further discussions with the MTO about the issue. “We will be meeting with MTO Minister Bradley in mid May.”

Cimino and Barbeau said they would be attending Kett's community meeting about the bypass. For more information on the meeting, e-mail Kett at terrykett@gmail.com.

Diamond cutting facility to be located in Sudbury

April 6, 2009 - Northern Life - Posted online

Ontario's first diamond cutting and polishing facility will be located in
Greater Sudbury, creating 50 jobs.

Crossworks Manufacturing, part of the HRA-Sun Diamond Group, which qualified
for a supply contract with De Beers' Diamond Trading Company (DTC), will cut
and polish an estimated $25 million worth of rough stones a year at the
facility.

The stones will come from the Victor Mine, located 90 kilometres west of
Attawapiskat First Nation on James Bay.

The facility is expected to be built by later this year, although a location
has not yet been finalized.

The announcement was made by Minister of Northern Development and Mines
Michael Gravelle Monday.

"This is the first cutting and polishing facility of its kind in Ontario,
creating 50 highly skilled jobs. Crossworks is a Canadian company, well
respected in their field," said Gravelle, speaking at a Chamber of Commerce
event at Bryston's on the Park in Copper Cliff.

"The establishment of our factory is a great beginning for us in Ontario and
will put Greater Sudbury on the global diamond map. As a Canadian company,
we are excited about the possibilities that this offers the jewellery
industry, the City of Greater Sudbury, the province of Ontario and Canada,"
said Uri Ariel, president Crossworks Manufacturing Ltd, in a release.

Sudbury MPP Rick Bartolucci said he was excited about the news.

"The definition of Greater Sudbury has just been broadened. We are still the
mining centre of excellence for the world, but we are expanding into the
cutting and polishing of De Beers diamonds," said Bartolucci.

"We are getting into value added growth. That expands economic opportunity
and jobs. This exciting initiative will provide new avenues of employment
and expertise. It will enhance Greater Sudbury's reputation as a centre of
mineral excellence."

Mayor John Rodriguez was also optimistic about the opportunities the new
industry would bring the city.

"We are going to add value to a northern resource, some of the best diamonds
in the world. I am looking at my crystal ball and I can see a cluster of
industries around diamonds, necklace manufacturers for example, just as we
have had a cluster of hundreds of companies develop around the major mining
companies here," said Rodriguez.

The diamonds will come a source that is regulated, where the resource is
tapped in a sustainable fashion and where local people in the area can
benefit, said Rodriguez.

Rodriguez said negotiations and been underway for almost a year between the
companies and the city.

"I have to give credit to city staff such as Guy Labine, chair of the
Greater Sudbury Development Corporation, his staff and many other people in
this community. It was a group effort," he noted.

http://forums.greatersudbury.ca/sudburynews/messageview.cfm?catid=150&threadid=9159

A Boy Needs a Grandma

A boy needs a Grandma to spoil him a bit
Someone with time on her hands who will sit
In an old fashioned rocker that shivers and squeaks
And listen to words that a little boy speaks.

Someone who knows who a gingerbread man
All crumbly and fragrant and warm from the pan
Can comfort a fellow who feels a bit blue
When nothing just right seems to happen to you.

A boy needs a Grandma to teach him the words
That run like a hymn in the song of the birds
Someone who knows where the Orioles go
When the garden is covered in inches of snow.

And only a Grandma remembers to say
“ Now be a good boy” as she tucks him away
Under the covers and pats them down tight
For little boys sometimes get scared in the night.

A boy needs the comforting knowledge of love
Steady and sure as the stars up above
To carry him safely through sunshine and tears
A light in the darkness, a stay through the years.

A boy needs a Grandma to hold in her chair
And give him her blessing by just being there.

Written by Pearl Wolfe, 1857

Brenda Salo’s Grandma

CARP – SUDBURY CHAPTER

On Thursday, January 29, 2009 at the Parkside Centre in Sudbury, Ontario, Mr. Paul Crawford, community and public affairs advisor for the Ontario Energy Board (OEB), made a presentation on “What You Need to Know about Energy Contracts” to approximately 80 in attendance. The presentation centered around key areas such as: What are your rights & what actions can you take. A question & answer period followed on all aspects of these various Hydro, Gas & other types of energy contracts.

The OEB is responsible for regulating natural gas & electrical utilities & deregulation in 1998 resulted in gas & electrical marketing companies going door to door requesting consumers to by from them, promising great savings & fixed rates, which in many cases, weren’t so.

Mr. Crawford’s advice was to do your homework, make sure you understand what you are signing & take the time to review the materials before you sign on the dotted line.

Mr. Crawford also had some tips for those contemplating changing suppliers:

1) You have options as your energy can be supplied by your utility OR an electricity
Retailer/natural gas marketer.

2) Know who you are dealing with. Agents who come to your door must have the proper
Identification & show ID with their name, company name & the OEB license number.

3) Be aware as to when you show your gas/electricity bill(s). You are under no obligation
(Nor should you), to show the agent a copy of your bill(s) until you are satisfied with
the process & then agree to sign a contract.

Note:

A) If you have signed a contract at the door, there is a ten (10) day waiting period in
which you can change your mind.

B) There is also a reaffirmation period within forty (40) days where you will be
contacted by the energy company who will ask you some questions and if you answer
“NO” to any, the contract is null & void.

The bottom line is “Buyer beware” as it is very difficult to get out of one of these contracts, financially, once completed.
ed.

From: "Newspaper Database" <joanne.henri@city.greatersudbury.on.ca>
To: "Joanne Henri" <joanne.henri@city.greatersudbury.on.ca>
Sent: Monday, November 03, 2008 8:34 AM
Subject: Government uploading programs to save city taxpayers millions

Government uploading programs to save city taxpayers millions

October 31, 2008 - Bill Bradley - Northern Life - Posted online

Mayor John Rodriguez shares a happy moment with Sudbury MPP Rick Bartolucci
and Greater Sudbury Police Services chief Ian Davidson (on right).
Bartolucci announced Friday a major uploading of provincial programs city
taxpayers are forced to pay millions of dollars for. Photo by Bill Bradley.

City taxpayers got some treats prior to Halloween evening.

Sudbury MPP Rick Bartolucci came to Mayor John Rodriguez's office Friday
afternoon to offer him and local taxpayers a bag of goodies worth $21
million by 2018.

Luckily, there was no trick or hoop the city had to jump through to get
their treats, said Bartolucci.

The City of Greater Sudbury can expect to see costs of Ontario Works
benefits and the Sudbury Court House paid by the province, phased in over
time, according to a new report by the province.

"For Greater Sudbury, this means $7,938,000 in increased annual benefits for
social assistance and $1.5 million for court security and prisoner
transportation by the time the upload is complete in 2018," said Bartolucci.

"With these uploads, the City of Greater Sudbury can build and repair more
infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, libraries, sewer systems and water
plants," he said.

Currently, municipalities like Greater Sudbury pay for some provincial
programs directly from property taxes. The Court House security costs -
over $1 million - have been continually an irritant to city councillors
and the mayor, said Bartolucci.

"I know Ward 9 Coun. Doug Craig has been vocal in his opposition to the city
being forced to pay for policing the provincial Court House. He paid me a
visit about this matter," he said.

Bartolucci also said there was intense involvement by many other councillors
and the mayor to get the upload accomplished.

"Mayor John Rodriguez called me every week about this proposal. We discussed
it intensively," said Bartolucci.

For his part, Rodriguez said it took a lot of courage for the province to
upload services at a time when the general opinion is that the economy is in
a tailspin.

"I have never seen a government take this action when everyone is saying the
sky is falling," said Rodriguez.

Rodriguez also appreciated that provincial transfers to the city will remain
the same in 2009 despite the upload and that future funding formulas will
have municipalities like Greater Sudbury at the table to work out the
details.

"I find that refreshing," said Rodriguez.

So did Greater Sudbury's financial officer, Lorella Hayes, charged with
keeping the city's finances viable during the upcoming 2009 budget process.

"It is good news. I appreciate the Ontario municipal partnership fund will
be intact in 2009. As to how much the city will save in 2009, that will be
known by December," she said.

http://forums.greatersudbury.ca/sudburynews/messageview.cfm?catid=133&threadid=769

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