Residents Voice Concerns and Suggestions at Strategic Planning Session DANIELLE PAUL MADAWASKA VALLEY

FREE INSIDE… Dental care for low-income seniors p.3 Healthy lifestyle hints p.9 Dog days p.10 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019

Residents voice concerns and suggestions at strategic planning session DANIELLE PAUL MADAWASKA VALLEY

On October 20, The Current reported that Council had hired MDB Insight for $8900 to coordinate a session to review its strategic plan The Path Forward on November 21 when the consultant would spend a half day with staff and members of Council, and then facili- tate a two-hour evening meeting in Barry’s Bay to hear from community members. Mayor Kim Love opened the public meeting by emphasizing PHOTO: INDUSTRYWEEK.COM the importance of strategic planning. She said staff and council had reviewed up litter, compliments for helpful mu- Environmental issues were raised with the 2015–19 strategic plan The Path nicipal staff and the Communities in the suggestion that the township con- Forward, identified what has been Bloom volunteers. Even online tax bill- sider the example of North Frontenac. achieved over the past five years, what ing received kudos. Then Blais directed They suggested an over-arching plan remains outstanding and what needs participants’ attention to the four main for healthy lifestyles and beautifica- to be prioritized. She said public input priorities in The Path Forward and the tion that encompasses accessibility into the process is critical and thanked Action Plan it contains. He asked them and opportunities for active transport. the approximately forty people present to form groups in those four categories Members of the audience referred to for their participation. to work through the actions from the examples of combined library and Then it was time to hear from the 2015 plan indicating which are still rel- community centres elsewhere, and the facilitators Paul Blais, Executive Vice- evant. He invited them to also add any need for this municipality to be an en- President (at left) and Evelyn Paul, amendments or new priorities under vironmental leader. the four headings: Consultant, of MDB Insights, the same EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE • Open and transparent government consultants who developed the earlier TOWNSHIP SERVICES • Progressive and growing economy plan. In his introduction Blais remind- Next came the six brave souls who • Healthy lifestyles ed the audience of the vision statement volunteered to consider efficient and • Efficient and effective Township and mission statement in the existing effective township services. They ex- services plan. He said he hoped the workshop plained that they did not have sufficient After working for about 40 minutes in would produce candid and honest dis- information to comment on many of their groups, Blais asked participants to cussion. Using the Economic Develop- the action items. They suggested effi- report on their discussion while his col- ment Strategic Plan of Central Okana- ciencies could be achieved if municipal league Evelyn Paul (inset left) recorded gan as an example, he explained that departments did not work in silos, re- the comments. the outcome of this session would be quirements for environmental assess- much shorter “a two-pager, something HEALTHY LIFESTYLES ment should be applied universally and the public can visualize quickly and see First up was the Healthy Lifestyles not just for developers. They also asked what the priorities are.” group. After discussing each action whether planning strategy could in- He started the discussion by asking item specifically, they said they felt that clude heritage buildings. An audience people to identify some positive things a community centre is an infrastruc- member suggested a town plan. When that occurred in Madawaska Valley over ture priority. They suggested it include the group spokeperson used stern the last few years. Answers ranged from a swimming pool, fitness centre with words saying the municipal website is the Greening of Main Street to praise indoor walking, expanded library fa- “not user-friendly and needs updating for resident Garnett Foster who picks cilities and lots of meeting room space. in the worst — Continued on page 2 www.madvalleycurrent.com 2 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT

Continued from page 2— this and do that, but who’s going to do possible way; it is an existing problem it? As it is I think volunteers are doing that needs to be addressed” someone much more than their share now as piped up “I second that.” The group’s far as I can see. So is everybody going final comments related to improving to be a volunteer or do we have to put Family Dining accessibility and signage at municipal our money where our mouth is and get buildings. out there and entice people to come.” Historic Polish Pub Another suggestion from the group was • OPEN TUESDAY to SUNDAY • PROGRESSIVE AND GROWING a gap analysis of infrastructure services ECONOMY wilnotavern.com and businesses with a view to attracting 613-756-2029 This group agreed that most of the ac- businesses and professionals, the final tion items in the 2015 plan were still rel- list of recommendations to be complet- evant and they suggested some word- ed by January 2021. Other comments were different and better promotion of the area, particularly online market- ing. The group ended their report with some new economic development action items: preserve and expand the YOUR SOURCE FOR LOCAL INFORMATION business area instead of allowing con- in the Madawaska Valley and area version of former business premises to To list your event, business or organization dwellings, promote the waterfront bet- email [email protected]. ter, and they prompted applause with Most listings are free. the suggestion to develop a community centre with swimming pool, curl- ing club, new library, meeting space for community groups. At this point Frances Mawson, Chair Township of Madawaska Valley’s of the Madawaska Valley Public Library, Strategic Priorities spoke: “We would very much like to fit THIS CAN BE into the municipal strategic plan; in fact, we think it’s essential. A thriving ing changes. One item they disagreed library is part of the infrastructure that YOUR AD with is the need for one storefront for all Call 613.639.1524 attracts people to the community.” She economic development and business or email [email protected] acknowledged members of council (all organizations, saying this is not a prior- Let The Current help grow your business. of whom were present) and said, “Obvi- ity and this function should be part of ously we need to do our growing with the municipal office. They agreed that the support and approval of the com- the Economic Development Strategy munity and so this is our request to the required an update and further that it municipality: Please be aware that we “needs an annual report card to the wish to make substantial changes and people.” When they discussed the ac- that these would be most productive tion item about collaboration, an au- and beneficial to the community if we dience member pointed out that while could do this in partnership…. So our the visitor centre students worked hard request to the municipality is to keep the Ottawa Valley Tourism Association your eyes and ears open to any oppor- trained them about the whole region tunities where we can share work space not specifically about Madawaska Val- with any viable organization, be it ley, to which another person respond- child-focused, recreationally-focused, ed, “That was what was good about organizationally-centred, if it involves having a fulltime staff person running skidoos, genealogy, housing, weaving, the facility.” whatever, we would like to talk to them. One resident suggested they should The savings from roof to shared servic- be told what came out of Council’s es can be immense and the benefits to brainstorming session earlier that day the community equally impressive.” and asked how they hope to accom- As Blais thanked the residents for plish economic development and how their participation, one audience much budget they will put towards it, member called out, “Where is Open saying “you’ve got to have somebody Government?” Blais replied to general to get out there and bring new people laughter as no one had volunteered for in…. It’s fine to say we’re going to do

www.madvalleycurrent.com 2 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT FRIDAY NOVEMBER 29, 2019 | 3

that, “The group on Open Government Love, who said that instead of trying to were dressed like chairs. There wasn’t influence residents, they were seeking anybody willing to step into that.” Blais fresh, new views. Love pointed out that BARRY’S BAY responded to a further question seek- members of council did not participate

ing results of the staff/council meeting: or sit among the working groups this OPEN 7 DAYS “one of the great things about the expe- evening. FAMILY RESTAURANT A WEEK rience today for me was to hear from In response to comments from a rep- Serving our customers for 50 years! staff and council about how much has resentative of a lake association on the HOME-COOKED MEALS • ALL-DAY BREAKFAST been achieved and I encourage them unsuitability of a “Thursday evening in NESTLE 45 FLAVOUR ICE CREAM PARLOUR ICE: BLOCKS AND CUBES to communicate that as part of the re- November” for attracting input from Try our milkshakes, sundaes and banana splits! lease of the next Action Plan. To show seasonal residents, Blais pointed out 15 Dunn Street • BARRY’S BAY • 613-756-2018 what has been done since 2015 and that the survey will be online on the mu- will help the public understand how nicipal website and that hard copies the transition to this 2019 action plan will available at the municipal office, li- sounds.” This prompted reassurances brary and elsewhere in the community from CAO Suzanne Klatt and Mayor for those without internet service.

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT Dental care for low-income seniors Website Design Google My Business Listings Help DANIELLE PAUL arrangements for clients under the new Social Media Training MADAWASKA VALLEY program. RCDHU advises, “As RCDHU Call Travis Richards 613-281-9419 does not currently provide dental treat- The Province announced the launch of Facebook.com/TravisRichOffice ment, agreements with dentists who are its Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program interested in participating in this pro- (OSDCP) on November 20, which will gram are being established. The goal is provide free routine dental care for eli- to establish services with providers so gible low-income seniors, saying, “Each that care can be arranged as close as year in Ontario, preventable dental is- possible to where seniors live.” A min- sues like gum disease, infections and istry spokesperson advises that enrolled No appointments needed on chronic pain lead to more than 60,000 seniors will be mailed a welcome pack- Walk-in Mondays 9–5 emergency department visits by pa- age, OSDCP dental card and program tients, of which a significant portion are Traci Cybulski • Wendy Shular information after approximately 7 busi- seniors. Many low-income seniors face • Emma Phanenhour • ness days after a complete, error-free challenges accessing regular dental care 613-756-2793 application is received. Seniors can then because they cannot afford it, impacting Follow us on Facebook. immediately contact their local public their overall well-being.” With an invest- health unit for services. ment of approximately $90 million an- Renfrew County and District Health nually, the government hopes to reduce Unit (RCDHU) has begun assisting se- the number of dental-related emergen- niors with the enrollment process and cy department visits. “The government understanding their range of needs, estimates that 100,000 low-income se- saying, “As RCDHU does not currently niors will benefit annually once OSDCP provide dental treatment ... the goal is is fully implemented.” to establish services with providers so Eligible seniors can apply to the pro- that care can be arranged as close as gram online or by picking up an ap- possible to where seniors live.” plication form at a local public health The ministry representative advises unit. Ontarians aged 65 and over with that enrolled seniors will be mailed a an income of $19,300 or less, or couples welcome package, OSDCP dental card with a combined annual income of and program information approximate- $32,300 or less, who do not have dental ly 7 business days after a complete, er- benefits, will qualify for the Ontario Se- ror-free application is received. Seniors niors Dental Care Program. can then immediately contact their local SFMH Auxiliary Gift Shop HELP IS AVAILABLE FROM YOUR public health unit for services. LOCAL HEALTH UNIT HOW TO APPLY Since the announcement on Wednes- Ready for Christmas Apply for OSDCP online at ontario. day, RCDHU has begun assisting seniors en ondaySaurday 9 am3 m ca/SeniorsDental or call RDCHU at with the enrollment process and under- Free parking for purchases of $10 + no tax 613.735.8654 and staff will assist eligi- standing the range of needs they have. ble seniors to enroll. N MM The team is coordinating dental care www.madvalleycurrent.com 4 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT PORCH VIEWS Hitting all three forbidden topics the-road and progressive) Catholic the acceptance of same-sex marriage, circles, Andrew Scheer, Garnett Genuis and the elimination of discrimination MARK WOERMKE and Jason Kenney are political dar- for LGBTQ people. If homosexual acts BARRY’S BAY lings because they are assumed to ad- are sinful and being gay means engag- here completely to the teachings of the ing in, or accepting the validity of ho- Catholic church. I don’t know if they do, mosexual acts or marriages, then being but I do have a pretty good idea of what gay might be sinful too. This reasoning OPINION their conservative Catholic supporters could explain why Scheer cannot bring believe — and expect. himself to walk in a Pride Parade. He What’s the adage? Polite people should The average Canadian likely doesn’t has said he never will. never talk about sex, politics or religion. know that conservative Catholics see Well, in the Valley if we couldn’t talk themselves engaged in a “culture war” DEFLECT, DEFLECT, DEFLECT about who’s new to Splitsville, who’s and that, through grassroots political ac- Scheer and his handlers know he can running around, what’s going on at tivism and education in private Catholic never answer THE QUESTION directly. the town hall, our MP’s latest outburst, schools, they intend to re-Christianize To do so would be political suicide: it who’s become a holy roller, or the bish- Canada. Whether or not Scheer, Genuis would alienate the red and the pink To- op’s latest letter, we would have some and Kenney believe this themselves, ries and deter Liberals from switching pretty boring conversations. Some- they are considered the vanguard. Bar- their votes. Instead, he must continu- times all three subject areas coalesce as bara Kay might accuse me of being a ally deflect; tell Canadians he has no in- they do in this column. conspiracy theorist, but I am not. I speak tention of revisiting Canada’s same-sex Don’t be alarmed: my focus is not lo- from experience. Until three years ago, I marriage laws; and reassure us that we cal, it’s national. And, for this post-fed- was one of those conservative Catholics. just have to trust that he will guarantee eral election Porch Views, I intend to hit the rights of LGBTQ Canadians. all three forbidden topics. I AM SUSPICIOUS I am suspicious when Andrew Scheer ONE SHOULD NEVER CO-OPERATE THE QUESTION WITH EVIL says his “personal commitment to Ca- Recently, a reporter asked Conservative nadians is to always fight for the rights Conservative Catholics believe that leader Andrew Scheer if he thinks ho- of all Canadians including LGBTQ Ca- one should never co-operate with evil. mosexuality is a sin. Scheer did not an- nadians.” I am suspicious because, To do so, would also be sinful. That is swer the question but repeated several sadly, like many Canadians, I don’t en- why a Catholic priest in South Carolina times that he was personally commit- tirely trust any politician. I am also sus- recently denied Joe Biden communion ted to protecting the rights of all Cana- picious because I know what conser- for his pro-choice stance, and that dians, including LGBTQ ones. Several vative Catholics believe — religiously, is why in 2018 the Archbishop of Ot- journalists and politicians have weighed morally and politically — about homo- tawa said it was “logically impossible” in since. Rex Murphy wrote in the Na- sexuality and same-sex marriage. for Justin Trudeau to consider himself tional Post that the question was unfair But let’s return to the question. Does Catholic and pro-choice. and tasteless, and he wondered why Andrew Scheer think that homosexual- The same arguments can be used Trudeau and Singh weren’t asked the ity is a sin? with homosexuality. If homosexual acts same question. Conservative MP Gar- are sinful, then accepting their normal- nett Genuis stated during the taping of THE CATECHETICAL FORMULA ization within marriage would be co- CTV’s Question Period that the question As a faithful Catholic, he should easily be operation with evil, not to mention the is evidence of the Liberal and NDP par- able to repeat the catechetical formula: destruction of an institution created by ties’ “anti-Catholic bigotry.” Jason Ken- the homosexual orientation is, in itself God (another evil). ney used THE QUESTION and Scheer’s not sinful, although it is intrinsically dis- If Andrew Scheer is as faithful a Cath- refusal to answer directly to warn us, on ordered. Homosexual acts, however, are olic as conservative Catholics think he The West Block, that religious tests for sinful. Being homosexual is not a sin. Ex- is, he has to believe homosexual acts politicians are an attack on freedom. pressing it through erotic activity is. are sinful. And if marriage normalizes Even before THE QUESTION was posed, If the question were posed as, “Do that sin, it is fair to assume that he be- Barbara Kay, in the National Post, ac- you think being gay is a sin,” a faithful lieves same-sex marriage is sinful too. cused Scheer’s opponents of exploiting conservative Catholic might have to ex- All that considered, can he really be his links to conservative Catholicism. plain that “gay” is a term with a lot of committed to protecting the rights of baggage: it represents a social attitude sinners? Can he even consider those POLITICAL DARLINGS and a political stance that promotes rights to be legitimate? It is common knowledge that Andrew the legalization of homosexual acts JFK OR BELLOC? Scheer is Roman Catholic, and a con- between consenting adults, the nor- servative one at that. In conservative malization of same-sex relationships, For years conservative Catholics in the (as opposed to nominal, middle-of- United States and Canada have been www.madvalleycurrent.com 4 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT FRIDAY NOVEMBER 29, 2019 | 5

petitioning their bishops to refuse com- Genuis would have us believe it is HOLDING THEIR NOSES munion to politicians who fail to pub- now perfectly acceptable for Catholic Conservative Catholics have been licly express or act on their Catholic be- politicians to tuck their religious and working very hard in the last twenty liefs on abortion or same-sex marriage. moral beliefs into a box marked “per- years to build support, influence policy Enter the disingenuous Genuis (sorry, sonal” when they are elected. What (and change hearts) by volunteering in I couldn’t resist that) who suggests it an interesting about-face. It is just as riding associations, promoting candi- is possible to do that very thing. To be- dishonest to think that religious be- dates, working on campaigns, becom- lieve something, but not act on it. lievers who are committed to acting at ing party executives, serving as aids to It is laughable that Genuis would re- all times according to the values and ministers and MPs, acting as lobbyists, fer to the discrimination JFK faced to get teachings of their faith tradition will creating socially conservative organi- elected as America’s first Catholic presi- abandon them upon election, as it is to zations, and educating future voters dent. Kennedy had to assure voters he assume that voters will abandon them at home and in private schools. I was would separate his personal religious al- at the ballot box. acquainted with a number of them. legiance to Rome from his responsibility Scheer will never get elected if he tells They have come very close to the prize, to the Republic and the American peo- Canadians the truth. If, like Singh and and they realize, as Scheer said in the ple. Ever since, conservative Catholics Trudeau he marches in Pride Parades, or same scrum where he was asked THE have condemned him for creating a for- like Trudeau says his views have evolved QUESTION, this past election was just mula which subsequent politicians have and he now believes in a woman’s right step one. Step two — the next election used as a “work-around” of the church’s to have an abortion, he will lose a good and the possibility of forming govern- strict moral standards which have be- part of his base. He will never do those ment — is on the horizon. come unpalatable in the increasingly things, so he has to give evasive answers Conservative Catholics still want secular world. These politicians separate and resort to the compartmentalization Catholic politicians to speak and act ac- their personal religious beliefs from their of faith and politics that conservative cording to Church teaching, but they are responsibility to represent their constit- Catholics have long criticized. willing to hold their noses — for now. uents’ political desires. The statement “I am personally opposed, but I will not im- pose my beliefs on others,” may assuage Advertising helps us provide the progressives and enable Catholics to The Current to readers at no cost. get elected, but it has long angered con- To advertise please call servative Catholics who criticized Ken- 613-639-1524. nedy and have criticized all subsequent LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Catholic politicians who are circumspect The Current welcomes letters to the editor, which should be addressed to on Catholic moral issues. [email protected] or The Madawaska Valley Current, PO Box Conservative Catholics favored the 1097, Barry’s Bay, ON K0J 1B0. Please include your first and last name, address and example of Hilaire Belloc. An English- phone number for verification. (These will not appear in print, only your name man of French ancestry and Catholic and municipality will.) The Current also encourages readers to use the online faith, Belloc ran for election in 1906. In a “Reply” box if they wish to comment about an online article. speech before a hostile crowd, he bran- dished his rosary and declared he was CODE OF ETHICS a Catholic and described his religious The Current subscribes to the journalistic ethics practices. Should the electors reject him recommended by the Canadian Association of Journalists. As it is a member of the National NewsMedia Council, on that account, he would be grateful to complaints about The Current can be submitted for mediation or adjudication. avoid the indignity of representing them. His honesty won him that election. The Current is published by MadValley Media, Barry’s Bay, Ontario K0J 1B0. Belloc good; JFK bad. Until now. Opinions and information published in The Current, in whatever form, do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Current. All the writing, artwork, and A TAIL CAN NEVER BE A LEG photographs published in The Current are the copyright of the author or artist, or When I was a conservative Catholic, the The Current in the case where no author is specified. The Madawaska Valley Current, gold-standard was for Catholic poli- PO Box 1097, Barry’s Bay, Ontario K0J 1B0 613-639-1524 madvalleycurrent@gmail. ticians to speak and act according to com www.madvalleycurrent.com their properly formed consciences, that facebook.com/madvalleycurrent twitter.com/mvalleycurrent is formed, in accordance with Catho- lic teaching. That is why in the House instagram.com/madvalleycurrent ca.linkedin.com/company/the-madawaska-valley-current of Commons in 2005 Andrew Scheer, PERMITTED USE: You may display, download or print the information on the site for your own inter- explained that considering ‘same-sex nal and non-commercial purposes provided that you observe all copyright and other propriety notices contained on such information. You may not, however, use, display, distribute, modify or transmit any marriage’ to be the same as ‘marriage’ information including any text, images, audio or video for commercial or public purposes without the was like calling a dog’s tail a leg and express prior written permission of its owner. You must not transfer the information to any other person subsequently voted against it. It is also unless you give them notice of, and they agree to accept, those same obligations. why he won’t apologize for making Printed by Bayberry Design, Barry’s Bay, Ontario those statements.

www.madvalleycurrent.com 6 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT

VALLEY HERITAGE LETTER TO THE EDITOR Will new laundromat be all washed up by high water rates? To whom it may concern: The village of Barry’s Bay has been without a laundromat for quite some time so we were quite happy to see a new one open recently on Bay Street. We went in to have a look around and welcome the new owner to our Gr.7–8 St Joseph’s Elementary School town. She was very friendly and we were impressed with the lovely, clean 1952–53 surroundings, state-of-the-art washers BOB CORRIGAN | BARRY’S BAY and dryers, a couch and TV for the customers, and the fact that Robylin Bau- This Grade 7 and 8 school picture was taken in 1952–53. If you see a tista lives on the premises, and is there mistake and you can make a correction, please let us know. to help if there are any problems, and keep an eye on things. FRONT ROW: Clarence Chapeski, Percy Coulas, Lawrence Chapeski, There are many in the area who do Jerome Cybulski, Bronis Glisinski, John Landon, Ron Gutoski, Jackie Ritza, not own, or cannot afford, a washer and Robert O’Malley, Jimmy Yantha, Conrad Etmanski, Sylvester Bleskie, dryer, and a laundromat is a real neces- Gerald Cowan, Nelson Cybulski sity, not to mention the many cottagers SECOND ROW: Robert Cybulski, Mark Yantha, Norbert Kovalski, Anthony and travellers in the summer. If Barry’s Bay is to grow and thrive, we Coulas, Diane Shermack, Viola Serran, Celestine Mintha, Margaret Kluke, need to encourage and welcome new Catherine Pecarsksi, Rita Shulist, Greg Conway, Orville Prince, Angus people and businesses to our town. Recoskie, Jackie Conway Due to the nature of their business, THIRD ROW: Rose Marie Chapeskie, Marie Norlock, Tillie Shulist, Florence their water uses will be considerably Bloskie, Agnes Recoskie, Catherine Conway, Irene Luckasavitch, Shirley high, more so than most others in town. Palubiskie, Joan Maika, Bernadette Conway, Madeline Zelney, Catherine Would Council not consider a tem- Dombroskie, Joan Gutoskie, Georgina Fox porary discount, just to help them for a year or two until they are estab- If you are interested in having a picture and story featured in The Madawaska lished? They have invested a consider- Valley Current, please submit the information to Bob Corrigan at The Current, able amount in their new endeavour. PO Box 1097, Barry’s Bay, ON K0J 1B0. Originals will be returned. It would be such a shame to see this much-needed facility fail to thrive as has happened to so many others in the past. Sincerely, Catherine Corrigan along with members of her walking group: Jane Beahen, A love of the Valley and Sarah Coombs, Maria Danielski, Mar- fifteen years’ experience garet Gray, Miriam Hedderson, Fran with used cars prompted Madigan, Margaret Ogilvie, Mary Peter- Kim and Glen Davis to son, Teresa Reszka, Julie Zurakowski. open Davis Motors on Editor’s Note: Madawaska Valley Hwy. 60 in Barry’s Bay. Glen and Kim invite you Council rejected the laundromat own- to walk around the cars er’s request for a reduction in water rates on the lot and kick the on November 5, 2019. The writers, how- tires. 416-732-1091. ever, have requested that The Current nonetheless publish their views. www.madvalleycurrent.com 6 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT FRIDAY NOVEMBER 29, 2019 | 7 Novels to buy the book lover on your Christmas list DOREEN YAKABUSKI Gilead regime. The perspective of two on the Waorani and their culture and CORNWALL other women is also given, that of Ag- provokes readers to reflect on the treat- nes who has grown up in Gilead and is ment of Canada’s Indigenous people. Except for those who are super-orga- being groomed to marry a Commander nized and have already finished Christ- and that of Daisy, a 16-year-old living mas shopping, it’s time to start think- in Canada with very protective parents. ing about gifts for the special people in This novel will be enjoyed by those who your life. For readers on your Christmas liked The Handmaid’s Tale or its televi- list, books are the perfect present. If you sion adaptation. have a fiction lover to buy for, you might consider gifting one of these six novels, all published this past year. (And why not treat yourself to a good book too?)

Olive, Again by Elizabeth Strout Choose this sequel for fans of the Pu- litzer Prize–winning Olive Kitteridge, which inspired an Emmy-winning mini-series. Olive is an opinionated and brutally honest woman struggling Bina: A Novel in Warnings by Anakana with the realities of aging and loneli- Schofield ness. In 13 interwoven stories, readers For those who enjoy a challenging read, are given a portrait of a complicated, The Book Woman of Troublesome this experimental novel is perfect. On flawed, and often contradictory indi- Creek by Kim Michele Robinson discarded pieces of paper, a 74-year- vidual in whom they cannot but recog- This is the perfect book for readers who old woman writes her story to warn nize some aspects of themselves. This enjoy historical fiction based on ex- people not to repeat her mistakes. In book is an absolute gem. tensive research. It’s a story about the her ramblings, she touches on topics blue-skinned people of Kentucky, the such as ageism and the treatment of Kentucky Pack Horse Library Project, women. Despite the book’s unconven- and life in Depression-era Appalachia. tional style, serious subject, and often It has suspense, romance, and humour. melancholic tone, there are wonderful Some parts are heart-warming and oth- touches of humour. And Bina’s voice is ers are heart-breaking. And what reader unforgettable. doesn’t enjoy a book about books and reading?

The Innocents by Michael Crummey This novel was a deserving finalist for Canada’s top three literary awards. In an isolated bay in northern Newfound- land, 9-year-old Ada and her 11-year- old brother Evered are orphaned and left entirely alone. With virtually no Five Wives by Joan Thomas contact with or knowledge of the world This year’s winner of the Governor Gen- outside their cove, they face food short- eral’s Award for Fiction is based on ac- ages, cold winters, illness, and acci- The Testaments by Margaret Atwood tual events: the 1950s mission of Chris- dents. This survival tale is both heart- Winner of the prestigious Booker Prize tian evangelists to convert the Waorani, breaking and thought-provoking. for Fiction, the book is set 15 years af- an isolated Indigenous people in Ecua- Complete reviews of all these books ter The Handmaid’s Tale. Aunt Lydia dorian Amazonia. Focusing on women can be found at https://schatjesshelves. secretly writes her memoirs explain- connected to the mission, the book ex- blogspot.com. ing how she became a founder of the amines the impact of missionary zeal www.madvalleycurrent.com 8 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT Celebrating Nurse Practitioners Week ROGER PAUL MADAWASKA VALLEY

WHAT HEALTH CARE IS A NURSE PRACTITIONER ALLOWED TO PROVIDE? NPs are graduate-prepared Registered Nurses, regulated since 1998 in the Ex- tended Class by the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO). They must meet rigor- ous requirements and standards to enter and maintain ongoing registration in Ontario. In Ontario, NPs are autho- rized to: • Complete a comprehensive health history and assessment • Formulate and communicate a diagnosis, taking a differential diagnosis into consideration • Prescribe all medications including controlled drugs and substances • Dispense, sell, and compound medications • Set and cast fractures and dislocated joints • Order and interpret all laboratory Shown above with a celebration cake are Liz Polatynski (left) and Cailin Weersink. tests Photo submitted. During Nurse Practitioners Week in Ontario in early November, the • Admit, treat and discharge patients Madawaska Valley Family Health Team (MV FHT) used the occasion to introduce two from hospitals new members of their team, both registered Nurse Practitioners (NP). They explained • Order some diagnostic imaging tests their role: “Nurse Practitioners at MV FHT are independent clinical practitioners who Both Polatynski and Weersink cover provide primary care to the community. We work collaboratively with our physician colleagues to increase access to primary care for the communities we serve.” all these areas. Polatynski works part- time with MV FHT and Weersink is employed full-time. To become an NP perience including critical care and visiting for public health. Her interests in Ontario the RN must be a graduate management, she has been an NP include women’s health, early child- of a four-year Baccalaureate degree in since 2007. She worked at the Centre hood development, chronic disease Nursing and must have at least two for Addiction and Mental Health as a management and improving quality years of full-time clinical practice ex- hospitalist serving vulnerable popula- of life through health promotion and perience. This is followed by success- tions with serious and complex mental health education. ful completion of a Master’s program health issues and addiction issues. Her which is a two year (seven courses) primary interest in community work is HOW DO NPS IMPACT HEALTH CARE IN THE VALLEY? program. It includes courses in ad- serving vulnerable populations includ- vanced health assessment, advanced ing the frail elderly. Dr. Jason Malinowski, General Prac- pathophysiology, therapeutics, and Weersink has spent the past ten years titioner at St. Francis Health Centre roles and responsibilities, as well as in Kingston. She was a Queens Uni- and Chief of Staff at St. Francis Memo- 728 clinical practice hours in the pri- versity undergrad, then obtained her rial Hospital, said he was pleased with mary health care NP program and 800 Masters at the University of Toronto patient acceptance of the NP role. He clinical hours in the Paediatric or Adult before returning to Queens for her NP said, “Because of the number of physi- NP program. qualification. This is her first NP posi- cian retirements, primary care is very Polatynski obtained her degree at tion since qualifying. Prior to complet- strained in Madawaska Valley — in York University and her Masters at ing the nurse practitioner program, common with other rural commu- Athabasca. She has connections with Cailin worked as a registered nurse at nities. This results in GPs’ workload the Valley and has been coming to a a family birthing centre in Toronto, the becoming stressed, but having more cottage here since she was 14 years emergency department of a small com- Nurse Practitioners providing primary old. With over 35 years of nursing ex- munity hospital and doing rural home care is a great help.”

www.madvalleycurrent.com 8 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT FRIDAY NOVEMBER 29, 2019 | 9 Four hints for a healthy lifestyle Improve your well-being with the latest health and fitness news

CHELSEA CLARKE before starting a new exercise program. which is linked to healthier cholesterol WILNO levels and a reduced risk of diabetes AMAZING OATS and heart disease, phytochemicals that SWEET SWAP Your morning oatmeal has loads of reduce inflammation, and are an excel- benefits aside from being a deliciously Swapping just one can of pop (artifi- lent source of vitamins B and E, as well warming breakfast. Oats contain fiber, cially sweetened or not) per day with a as the mineral magnesium. non-sweetened beverage such as water, coffee, or tea, could lower your risk FOLLOW US ON MOONLIGHT BARRY’S BAY of developing diabetes by 10 percent. FACEBOOK MADNESS Source: Diabetes Care AT THE LIBRARY DOG OWNERSHIP LINKED TO A December 6 • 5–8 pm LONGER LIFE Get your presents BINGO Seeing your four-legged friend at the wrapped, visit Santa Thursday December 5, 19 end of a long workday brings a smile and purchase Andrea’s to your face, but research published (Christmas Special) in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality yummy donuts. Doors open 6 pm. Games 7 pm. and Outcomes found that dog owner- SATURDAY LEGION CLUB ROOM ship might also lead to a longer life. In Madawaska Valley PROGRAMS Open Monday to Saturday from this study, dog owners enjoyed better PUBLIC LIBRARY FOR CHILDREN 2 to 6 pm and Friday to 8 pm. longevity than those who didn’t own Ages 3–7 » 10–10:30 am Hours may be extended during dogs, likely due to the increase in physi- Ages 8+ » 11 pm–12 noon cal activity and decrease in depression scheduled events. Open Sundays and loneliness that comes with sharing Contact the library for more information. for major sporting/world events. your home with Fido. Christmas CLOSED ON: GENERAL MEETING INCREASE YOUR BALANCE WITH Holiday Hours December 24, 25, 26 + 31 Wednesday December 18, THREE EXERCISES January 1, 2020 6:30 pm followed by Christmas Better stability is an important way to 19474 Opeongo Line, Barry’s Bay Pot Luck. Bring your favourite dish. ensure fewer falls as you age. Here are FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK some simple exercises you can start to- [email protected] • 613-756-2000 day—and you don’t even need a gym! The following exercises can all be done while holding the back of a chair for support. Are you Are you experiencing Do you feel as though 1. Single-leg Stand: Lift the right foot struggling symptoms that are others are not and hold for 10 seconds, then place in your preventing you listening, supporting back on the ground. Repeat 10 times. marriage? from enjoying life? or understanding you? Switch to lift the left foot, repeating 10 times. If you answered yes to any of these questions, I can help! 2. Sumo Squat with Lift: Stand with feet wider than hip-distance apart, toes turned out to 45 degrees. Bend slightly through the knees, then as you straight- en, lift the right leg out to the side before placing it back on the ground. Re- peat the squat, lifting the left leg this BRENDA STRACK time. Repeat for a total of 12 lifts. CERTIFIED COUNSELLOR 3. Toe Taps: Stand with feet paral- Now accepting clients. lel and bend your knees slightly. Using your right foot to begin, tap your toe Helping you move Madawaska Valley on the floor in front of you, then to the forward in the side, then to the back, then place it back Counselling Services beside the other foot. Repeat 10 times, right direction mvcounselling.com then use the left foot. 613-633-7674 • [email protected] Consult your healthcare practitioner In November and December, 2019, a 50% discount will be applied to initial consults.

www.madvalleycurrent.com 10 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT Never, ever, look a puppy in the eye FRANCES MAWSON MADAWASKA VALLEY

I was pleased to see recently in The Current that dog ownership increases longevity (Hints for a Healthy Lifestyle, Chelsea Clarke, see p.9). However, I do think the article overlooked a few mi- nor points, one of which was “If you own a dog are you sure you want to live longer?” I would proffer a diffident word of caution to people longing for doggy company. Have you seen people walking their lovely, obedient pooches around town, the docile canine sitting quietly while its human owner talks to a friend and little children pat Rover? Have you longed for the pleasure of walking with your un- leashed companion on paths through the bush? Are you someone who has looked with pleasure at drivers while their furry, wise companions sit beside them in the car? Did you ever fantasize Doggy kisses for the author. PHOTO: FRANCES MAWSON about cuddling on the sofa in front of the wood stove with your loyal pet? cuddles, you imagine reciprocated piness that can drag you across a busy Eschew these fantasies; bury these love, life-long friendship. In the only- street? A love of horses, bicyclists, cats, longings! Take a trip to Machu Picchu open-when-it’s-too-late inner sanc- cars, people, that converts, in the blink and immerse yourself in Inca lore; dis- tum of your brain you shut all thoughts of an eye, to total action? A sense of fun cover the wonders of tectonic plates of fencing, vet bills, four pairs of ru- that can only be satisfied by two hours and find evidence of their movement ined favourite shoes, sacks of food, six of ball throwing? Or a love of the out- in your own backyard; take up juggling, chewed-to-extinction chairs, joyfully doors that thinks -15 with wind chill is stamp collecting, hang gliding but nev- ignored obedience classes, bouncing a glorious day and why aren’t you out er, ever look a puppy in the eye. endless enthusiasm and nighttime here with me having fun? So, just turn Puppy eyes, like all young mammal barking. As with all babies, the pur- away from that silky head with appeal- eyes, are designed to make you get chase price is just a teeny-weeny drop ing eyes and sober up! lost in your imagination. You imagine in a surging ocean. And if you’re still not convinced Animosh and I, she’s a St. Pyrenees, make yourself a cup of tea, sit down on are one year into this amazing experi- the sofa, put your feet up and watch ment and so far we’ve both survived and your favourite program on TV. Relax. she’s prospered, if weight is anything And then imagine not being able to do to go by. She was just over 10 lbs when that for at least two years because an- she got here — over 110 now. She’s not other being will be trying to drink your a big dog but everyone else’s dog has tea and slopping it on the coffee table grown smaller. Her woof is commensu- (the rug you’ll have taken out long ago), rate with her size and, at 2:00 a.m. on it’ll be sitting on your knee blocking the a quiet night, quite enough to lift you screen while staring into your face and horizontally off your mattress and give bringing paralysis to your legs in be- At the Madawaska Valley Horticultural your heart a stress test which bypasses tween spinning round and woofing at Society’s Christmas Pot Luck dinner that tiresome 15 minutes of treadmill. any strange noise on the television. And meeting, Ritsuko Honda showed how to And did I mention enthusiasm? Joy then it will want to go out and for you to create seasonal designs based on three unconfined, often expressed very early come too as it’s only spent 93.6 percent vital principles. The arrangement must in the morning on your bed? Delight in of that day outside. be sustainable, long-lasting and cheap. seeing you and every other mortal, suf- And in that moment you will remem- She offered tips for long-lasting types of ficient to knock you flat? Overwhelming ber: “The best dog is a cat” … but it will foliage in the Valley. PHOTO: NOLA LEROUX happiness to meet another dog — hap- be too late. www.madvalleycurrent.com 10 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT FRIDAY NOVEMBER 29, 2019 | 11 In Memory mural unveiled at SFMH DANIELLE PAUL BARRY’S BAY

A new In Memory Mural crafted by Wilno resident Donnie Burchat was unveiled at St. Francis Memorial Hos- pital (SFMH) on October 29. The piece is installed opposite the Landscape of Life, also made by Burchat, on the main floor of SFMH. Burchat unveiled the mural with the help of Toni Lavigne- Conway, Executive Director of the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation (SFVHF), and Greg McLeod, Chief Op- erating Officer of SFMH. The previous memorial made by Burchat, Landscape of Life, has been full for some time and SFVHF has received many requests about a new one. Burchat’s new In Memory Mural de- picts a typical Valley landscape complete with ducks in flight, leaves on a tree, and even a partridge on a stone fence. Lavigne-Conway says the most significant part of the mural will be the names that represent family members, loved ones and friends — names that will soon be engraved on the indi- Donny Burchat with his mural at St. Francis Memorial Hospital. vidual elements of the design in a lasting and meaningful way to remember ports is the medical equipment to sup- responded, “Willie.” Lavigne-Conway and honour them. She explained that port our clinicians in providing care.” laughed and explained they had con- SFVHF is very grateful for In Memory He gave as an example that SFMH is sulted Will Borutski, SFMH Mainte- donations because they help enhance replacing seven new patient beds at nance, and when he saw Burchat’s local healthcare by providing essen- a cost of $5,000 to $7,000 each and drawing, he told them, “You can’t have tial equipment. She said the mural will McLeod agreed with Lavigne-Conway a stone fence without a partridge. assist with capital needs at SFMH, ex- that patients and their families greatly Donnie picked up on that and away he pected to be around $230,000 this year. appreciate the In Memory donations. went with it.” Lavigne-Conway thanked those who Burchat (above with the mural) ex- This is the fifth such memorial proj- attended the unveiling, which included plained his creation and described the ect Burchat has worked on: two for some donors of In Memory contribu- types of wood used. “First of all I’m SFMH, one at Hospice Renfrew and tions to SFVHF. grateful to the Foundation for the op- then two in Barrie at the head office McLeod also expressed his gratitude portunity. I really enjoyed doing this. of Community Living. Their CEO at to donors and said, “I am most im- This is my fifth one. The rocks are white the time had previously worked at pressed by how much it means to the ash with a grey stain. That’s a new one, Madawaska Valley Community Living families. We hear comments of people just to add some new colour. The par- and seen Burchat’s Landscape of Life stopping by to read them. When it’s partridge was Will’s idea, head of mainte- at SFMH so she contacted him for a ticularly notable is in the summer when nance, and that’s brown ash. Butternut similar donor mural in Barrie. He usu- you have people who don’t necessarily for the leaves. Birch for the background. ally has complete design control and live here. They are reading the names Oak for the frames, and the birds are says, “By the size of it, I have an idea of and there’s a lot of familiar names on walnut as well.” Generally, he chooses how many leaves will be on there. They there.” He explained that the govern- the wood for its colour, but this time he throw some ideas at me but you want ment doesn’t pay for any equipment at said, “For the partridge in this case, the to make sure that each component is hospitals, just operating costs. “But ev- grain looked like feathers. If you look it’s big enough for a plaque. You could do ery new piece of medical equipment is going along with the bird.” a lot of things, but if you can’t get the covered by the community itself…. The Lavigne-Conway said, “I feel we brass plaque on it’s not much good.” capital needs that SFVHF truly sup- should give this beautiful lone par- Burchat designs a template for each tridge a name.” Burchat immediately element in a mural. www.madvalleycurrent.com 12 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT Eat Your Art Out a sensational experience DANIELLE PAUL at tables around a fashion runway in- Artistic Co-director Andy Trull contrib- KILLALOE stalled at the Killaloe Lions Hall, with uted original poetry between courses. non-alcoholic drinks and optional al- The cast of contributors came from all Eat Your Art Out, billed as a fashion cohol pairings for each course, while corners of the Valley’s exuberant artistic show exploring the transition from fall six models each displayed a transition- community who enthusiastically de- to winter, was a sensory feast held in themed costume accompanied by po- signed and served food, drink, costume, Killaloe on November 9. etry and music. The evening’s themes music, poetry, set design and more. The event was the fourth annual fun- were colour to monochrome, external Eat Your Art Out was sponsored by draiser for Killaloe-based Ottawa Valley to internal, warm to cold, water to ice, The Sands on Golden Lake, the Town of Creative Arts Organization (OV-CAOS). light to dark and loud to quiet. Renfrew and Kristen Callahan. A num- It featured food, drink, costume, music, Roberta Della Picca, who also mod- ber of local artists and artisans contrib- poetry and decorations created by local elled the External to internal costume, uted goods for a Silent Auction orga- artists/foodies/musicians/poets — all opened the evening with a traditional nized by OV-CAOS Co-chair Doug De themed to explore the transition from Anishnaabe welcome. OV-CAOS Artis- La Matter. 2020 art calendars are avail- fall to winter. Six courses were served tic Co-director Anya Gansterer co-or- able for purchase at Grandma’s Pantry dinated the event and fellow OV-CAOS and CRC in Killaloe.

Clockwise from top left: Colour to monochrome food by Nicole Zummach and Michael Howe of Valley Burrito. Musician John David Williams and creator/model Amber Flosktra Radema celebrate Warm to cold. Water to ice dress designed by Tanya Lyons, modelled by Abigail Clapper. Light to dark costume by Shanti Nordholt-McPhee, model Sigrid Geddes. Audience transfixed by Loud to quiet sequence featuring drumming and a capella singers. Some of the models on stage at the end.