Letters February 10, 2005

Letters February 10, 2005

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Roads for the Future

First I'd like to thank the roads crew of Central Frontenac for the great job they've been doing for the last month. With all the sand put down on the roads I drive, travelling has been much safer. This was an excellent response to the concerns expressed by the many people who attended the CF Council meeting on January 10, 2005. However, we need to think more about the long-term future of our roads, not just about how we deal with the immediate problems presented by one ice storm.

I hope CF taxpayers will also get involved in making sure that Council gives roads the attention they deserve. They are the network that makes life possible. They are the largest single financial commitment for the Township. As Mayor MacDonald said, quoted in the January 27th edition of the Frontenac News, "I say you can have the best hospitals and the best schools in the world, but if you don't have decent roads to drive on you'll never get to either of them."

I understand that Councillor Logan Murray has a motion prepared for the February 14th Council meeting, proposing the establishment of a Roads Committee. Some Councillors, I'm sure, will think "oh no, not again" since they have rejected similar motions in the past. Other rural councils, in our area and beyond, recognize that roads are so important that they require concentrated attention by a committee of council. Please come to the February 14th meeting of Council to show that you support this motion, and want to see Council start a process that aims to improve the operation and development of our road system so that it meets our needs for the present and the future.

Gail Burgess

Thoughts about marriage between same-sex couples:

Marriage is the union between a man and a woman, excluding all others. Lets listen to what God says in His Holy Word:

Genesis 1: 27 God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he them, male and female created he them.

Genesis 2: 21 - and the rib which the Lord God had taken from the man, made he a woman and brought her unto the man.

I Corinthians 7:2 Nevertheless to avoid fornication let every man have his own wife and let every woman have her own husband.

Romans 1:18; and 1:24, 25, 26, 27 tell us that unions of same sex are wrong and Gods judgement will be upon them.

Marriage is mentioned in the Bible 589 times. Marriage between man and woman was God ordained.

If this paper is passed, God help us all.

Oh, Canada. Beware!

- Muriel Phillips

Sydenham wants answers, NOT excuses

At the last council meeting, Richard Munroe of the Sydenham Safe Water Association (SSWA) presented council with a petition, signed by 85% of the properties impacted by the proposed water project. This petition demanded that council give us the total estimated cost for each property before signing any contracts for construction of the waterworks. The people want to know 1) the capital cost, 2) the hook-up costs, and 3) the annual maintenance cost and water rate. Clearly, the people are entitled to know how much they will be required to pay for this water. But our Mayor could only find excuses why council can't help us.

Regarding hook-up costs, which are a significant portion of the total cost for the property owner, the Mayor used the excuse that he doesn't want to put resources into exploring these costs until they establish the cost of construction. His reason being that the tenders may come in too high to proceed. This begs the same question we have wanted an answer to for over two years, "What is too expensive?" Why won't council DEFINE this number? Is there a limit to what they are willing to make us pay? If so, then why avoid disclosing it? And further, if council doesn't act now on the hook-up costs, scheduled constraints will not allow them enough time to do the estimates after the tenders come in. That would be a convenient excuse to avoid determining the hook-up costs and revealing the real total cost?

The Mayor also discounted the extent of our concerns by commenting that they are really busy and have to attend to all the other issues concerning the residents of the township. We agree council should be responsible to all residents. But council forced this expensive project on us and is now trying to wash their hands of their responsibility to us. We have repeatedly tried to get answers to fundamental questions that even people outside the water area want answered. These people are concerned they could be next in line for water and sewage and they don't want the same neglectful treatment and excuses that the people of Sydenham have endured.

Finally, the Mayor blamed the people for the delays in the project. Mr. Mayor, get your facts straight. The engineering firm that council hired started this whole delay when they grossly underestimated the cost of the project. All the delays since then have been around getting more money. And to make matters worse, Mr. Mayor, the engineering firm now wants MORE money for themselves because of the delay that THEY caused. Isn't that a little bit ironic, Mr. Mayor? Your energy would be much better spent finding answers instead of excuses for the tremendous number of problems the mismanagement of this project has created.

To work WITH the people, like you claim to have tried to do, you first need to LISTEN to them - at least 85% of them, in this case.

- Cathie Waugh, Sydenham

Feture artcle, February 17, 2005

Feature article February 17, 2005

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Group seeks to halt Algonquin Land Claims Process before it starts up again by Jeff Green

A group calling itself The Algonquin National Advisory Committee (TANAC) has provided notice of their intention to proceed with a class action suit against everyone involved in the Algonquin Land Claims process.

Michael Swinwood, a lawyer from Almonte, has served notice of the pending suit to the Province of Ontario, the Government of Canada, the Council of the Pikwakanagan Reserve (Golden Lake), and two entities which have sprung up to provide representation to non-status Algonquins in Ontario.

This suit is coming about as Algonquin Land Claims Chief Negotiator Robert Potts is in the midst of calling elections for Algonquin National Representatives, individuals who are to be elected by people of demonstrable Algonquin descent and have chosen to affiliate themselves with one of seven communities within the Ottawa Valley in Ontario.

These off reserve, so-called non-status Algonquin Communities are to sit at the negotiating table along with the Chief and Council of the Pikwakanagan reserve, which is located at Golden Lake. Pikwakanagan is the only reserve within the Land Claim territory.

The Algonquin National Advisory Committee held a meeting last weekend in Sharbot Lake. About 50 people attended, from various parts of the Algonquin territory, with a concentration coming from the Sharbot Lake vicinity. The Algonquin Drum from Pikwakanagan was in attendance, and Michael Swinwood addressed the meeting. He explained the perspective from which the class action suit he is propagating for the Algonquin Nation is coming from.

The Algonquin Nation is sovereign, he said, there has never been a treaty signed ceding Algonquin lands to the Crown. The Land Claims should be conducted on a nation-to-nation basis between the Algonquin Nation and the Government of Canada.

Swinwood argued that the Province of Ontario needs to be at the table only because they have had mineral rights granted to them from the government of Canada, but that Ontario cannot be a principal to the negotiations. He also said that cutting Ontario and Quebec Algonquins off from each other was part of the divide and conquer strategy that has been perpetrated on Aboriginal peoples throughout North America.

There are nine Algonquin Reserves on the Quebec side of the Ottawa River, and there has been no Land Claims Process initiated for Quebec Algonquins.

Michael Swinwood also noted that, according to a Royal Proclamation in 1763, Aboriginal peoples are not to be disturbed and that their territory is not to be taken from them. Further, he stated that Section 25 of the Canadian Constitution Act of 1982 states that the Royal Proclamation of 1763 is a living document in terms of aboriginals.

Bob Lavalley, who comes from the Algonquin Park region, chaired the meeting. He said he didnt want to engage in name calling, but that there are serious problems which make the entire Land Claims Process untenable. For one thing, the way it is set up, the people that have been engaged in the process from the Algonquin side are being paid by the government, from the proceeds of whatever settlement they come up with, to carry on the negotiations. How can you negotiate if you are being paid by the other side? he asked.

Lavalley made reference to two bodies that have been developed among non-reserve Algonquins: the Algonquin National Negotiating Directorate (a not-for- profit corporation) and the political body called the Algonquin National Tribal Council. Under the rubric of these institutions, offices have been set up in communities throughout the region, including two in Sharbot Lake. The election process that Robert Potts has set up is an attempt to move on from some of the internal problems of these two previous bodies and focus directly on the Land Claims Negotiations.

The negotiations, which were initiated in 1991, are officially frozen from the perspective of the Ontario and Canadian governments, pending the development of a negotiating team to represent the Algonquin side. Robert Potts is hoping the Algonquin National Representatives will be in place in time to resume negotiations later this year.

Robert Potts has said that the fact that both the Provincial and Federal Governments are prepared to negotiate makes this an historic opportunity for Algonquins, one that may not come again.

This perspective is countered by some, including Lynn Gehl, who wrote in a recent issue of the Anishnabek News, It is my contention that the Algonquin need not sell their land and need not fear that this is our last chance, as others threaten. What the Algonquin need is to demand the time to repair the present fractured and unorganised Algonquin Nation. It took the coloniser well over 300 years to create this position of weakness and it will take us longer than 10 years to repair the damage.

At their meeting in Sharbot Lake, TANAC formed a committee which is devoted to contacting as many Algonquins as possible, on both sides of the border, to inform them of their perspective, to ask them to withdraw their support from the Land Claims Process and put their names behind Michael Swinwoods class action suit.

Michael Swinwood admits the class action suit aims high. It claims all government land within the Ottawa Valley, which includes the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa, and asks for $13 billion in damages.

Letters, February 24, 2005

Feature article February 24, 2005

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Small business not wanted

In Nov/04 an article was printed in our daily newspaper about big box stores like Wal-Mart ruining small retailers. For every Wal-Mart that comes into a community several small stores close up.

We seem to welcome these big box stores that force others to renovate and increase or discontinue business. Wal-Mart is based out of Canada and it appears Canadian governing bodies would rather deal with other countries. Small business is not wanted.

The beef industry is suffering greatly but the Canadian government allows beef to be imported here and sold here every day It forces farmers to almost give their beef away. With the lack of federally inspected processing capacity causing the real problem, we are helping the United States take advantage of our hardship. Our government leads people to believe the US border closing is the real problem while they are doing nothing to help our beef producers over-supply.

Thanks go out to Rev. J. Craig, who has helped organize a mini-market in Hartington, providing success until the government finds a problem with it.

Transportation is no different. Our local school board took several of our routes and gave them to other companies major ones based out of Canada, leaving those who provided service for a lifetime with no retirement.

Even our local council has disputed for months over an entrance to our property that would have provided a service to people. This discourages Canadians to do business at every turn.

I repeat Small business is not wanted in Canada.

J. Kerr

Letter to the editor

Same-sex marriage

It seems to me that the Bible was written quite a time ago. For example: What does the Bible say about the 39,000 kids that die (every day of the year) of malnutrition? Did those bad homosexuals make those children?

Does the Bible say that only white Christians have the right to life? It seems that the Right to Life President of the USA sure doesnt think twice about killing people.

What does it say about the millions of women who have been abused, or raped, or even gang-raped and cant even look at a man without wanting to puke. Maybe they dont want to spend their whole lives alone.

Gays contribute more than their share to this world. Newsweek calls them the richest and best educated of ANY minority. Example: nice or not, Michael Jackson has given more than a billion dollars to charities. Liberace probably gave half a billion. Dont forget they could have lived pretty good on their first couple of millions and not put up with the verbal abuse they got.

A lot of kids have no parents in this world and a lot of gays sponsor or even adopt needy children. The best minds on earth, Nobel Laureates, are worried about over-population and the steady destruction of this earth and all of the species that God made. They surely couldnt care less about the word Marriage. Sadly the best minds dont always win in politics.

- Carmel Gowen.

Letter to the editor:

Upkeep of Central Frontenac roads

I am responding to the residents who believe the township is doing a good job on the upkeep of our local roads. Obviously they do not travel on the same roads that I travel on. The current council needs to step up to the challenge of taking the responsibility of the ongoing issues. If this problem is not the fault of the council, then could it be possible that the contractors who work on the roads do not have the expertise and proper training to enable them to do the job? In the past, I have noticed workers filling in potholes and then about a month later they were back filling them in again. Is it common practice to throw money away in this manner? Have they considered outsourcing the work to companies that have the experience and the

knowledge when it comes to maintaining the roads? Would the local council consider requesting bids from companies to have the privilege of maintaining and preserving our local roads? The idea is not necessarily to give the job to the lowest bidder, but to give the job to the company that provides the most cost effective and efficient means of completing the task to our satisfaction.

The last few years my taxes have tripled. If this has happened to everyone in Central Frontenac, then we should be able to afford to pay for proper repairs and maintenance on the roads. The taxpayers in this community are paying the council to do a job; surely they can come up with a good solution to solve some of our problems without raising our taxes even further.

Some people feel we need a new council. If this is not the case, then please prove to us that we are wrong.

- Jim Kirkland

Letter to the editor

Farewell from a paramedic

In April, 1990, I arrived from Toronto to begin my first shift with the Parham Ambulance Service. Fresh out of college, I came to the Frontenac area to pursue my career as a paramedic, and had absolutely no idea what life would be like working in rural Ontario.

At that time, David Hansen was the operator of the service. We worked long hours, much of it on standby (read: volunteer), and I began to learn about rural emergency services, and life in general, in this part of the world. There have been many changes over the years, in the service and in the community with new partners, a new operator (David Gemmill), and the downloading of paramedic services to the county.

Some things have remained the same I still feel privileged to be accepted by the communities of Frontenac County, and I am still in awe of the sense of community one finds here.

Some things never change, though. Yesterday I worked a 16-hour shift! It was just like the old days.

Today (February 17) is my last scheduled shift in Parham, and Ive been reflecting on what a wonderful experience Ive had. From childbirth to tragedy, Ive been fortunate to share your lives and to see the people and the communities around here at their best, and I cannot express what a joy it has been, most of the time. Id like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has made my time in the north such an adventure, and although Im sure well cross paths again, wish you all happy trails.

Thanks so much.

- Dave Parkhill, Kingston

Fair, Open, Accountable

Three simple but important words. And three words the Township of South Frontenac council needs to learn and start to practise. We elected this council to SERVE us and to be responsible to US.

It is hoped that other communities in the township are learning from Sydenham's experience. We continue to be amazed at the blatant disregard for our

democratic rights, and the inability of our council to listen to the people that elected them - the people they claim to be working for, and with.

Once again, the people impacted by the Sydenham Water Project went to a council meeting and tried to get our point across. Once again, council stonewalled us.

Our township runs an annual budget. Once a year, they estimate the costs for all sorts of projects in the township for the year. And they estimate the revenue they will get from taxpayers - you and me. Then they cut things from the budget until it balances, so the revenue equals the expenses. Also known as a balanced budget. Responsible behaviour for elected public officials.

So, someone please explain why council thinks they are exempt from being fiscally responsible to the residents of Sydenham. This Council has NEVER

established a budget for the Sydenham water project! What that means is that there is no definition of what is too much for the people to pay. And we have seen the estimated costs of this project rise multiple times through the course of this fiasco, and we know they are going to rise again. This means that the people of Sydenham are being set up for a FINANCIAL DISASTER.

Mayor Lake admitted at the last council meeting that there is no definition of too much. This is beyond comprehension. How can anyone in their right mind claim to be managing in the best interest of the public, when they haven't defined an upper limit for the financial impact to the people?

How would you like it if next year council decided not to do an annual budget, but instead they spent whatever it cost for whatever projects they wanted to do? And guess what, you have to pay for it all. Imagine NO MAXIMUM on your tax bill. Now you are getting the picture of how we feel in Sydenham. This council is out of control, and we need your help to let them know this is NOT okay.

Call Mayor Lake, call your councillor. The people of Sydenham need you to tell council ALL the people of this township have had enough, and that we want a council that is fair, open, and accountable.

- David Waugh, one of the VAST MAJORITY for responsible government.

Feature article, March 3, 2005

Feature article March 3, 2005

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Salmon River Habitat Strategy fills second hall

by Gray Merriam

On Saturday 26 February 45 people filled the Branch Library in Tamworth at an Open House presented by the Friends of the Salmon River, the Lennox and Addington Stewardship Council, the Frontenac Stewardship Council and the Hastings Stewardship Council. Just a few days earlier, the first Open House had also filled the W.I. Hall in Lonsdale.

People came to learn about the Salmon River Habitat Strategy Study being done by a partnership of these stewardship groups. After the volunteer group, the Friends of the Salmon River, was organized last April, the Stewardship Councils obtained funding from the Canada-Ontario Agreement to begin assessing the health of the Salmon River watershed. It is a big job because the watershed begins near Cloyne, at Story Lake, and extends all the way to the Bay of Quinte near Shannonville.

By using the latest satellite technology, Melodie Green, the full-time researcher on the study, has assembled maps of the whole watershed. Her map of the watershed shows the edges of the big basin in the land that collects all the water flowing into the Salmon. The maps also show all the forested areas in that watershed, the types of vegetation along the immediate shorelines of the river and all the known areas of special interest throughout the watershed. Results of inventories of fishes by both electrofishing and by trap netting were also presented.

One special area in the watershed include the Salmon River Alvar, an area of shallow soil over limestone that does not hold moisture well and so has some rare plants that would normally be found on prairies. Puzzle Lake Provincial Park is another special area along the Salmon, recently designated as a Provincial Park and under study to learn more about special environments and species that occur there. The newly appointed Superintendent of Puzzle Lake Park, Lloyd Chapman, was one of the participants at the Tamworth Open House. Others participating included staff of the three Stewardship Councils, Ontario Nature and Friends of the Salmon River. Displays were presented by those groups and by the Upper Canada Wood Cooperative, Cataraqui Canoe Club, Kennebec Lake Association, Concerned Citizens Against the Richmond Landfill, and, of course, many displays by the Salmon River Habitat Strategy Study.

Steve Pitt, Coordinator of the Lennox and Addington Stewardship Council explained that by using Environment Canada guidelines, results of the Salmon River study will ask "how much habitat is enough for a healthy watershed?". If some spots need help, both advice and funding sources will be provided to landowners. To safeguard the currently healthy condition of most of the watershed, the Stewardship Councils are offering to work individually with landowners to provide stewardship plans for the owner's property custom-designed by a professional at no cost and with no obligation.

The most important people present, the people on the land, ended the Open House with a lively series of questions that generated a full and friendly discussion with the resource people present -- a true information exchange.

The final Open House in this series will be in the Community Hall in Arden next Saturday March 5 from 11 am to 1 pm.

Letters March 25, 2005

Letters March 25 2005

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Re: Letter by Rev. Jean Brown - "Same sex Marriage"

I have no intention of entering the nonsense debate on the pros and cons of same sex marriage, especially with a church pastor. However, as one who was brought up with the Holy Bible as our family guide book, I am reminded of what St. Paul says in Romans I, v. 21 - 32. It is really quite clear what Paul thought--that the act of homosexuality was a sin that God looked down on with a dire warning in verse 32.

St. Paul the apostle, who gave Christ's word to us Gentiles in his letter to the Romans, condemns them for their homosexual acts--and in plain language that should not and cannot be altered.

Although the politicians say "No way", it will not be long before others whose religion allows more than one wife get into the act, pulling the Charter of Rights and Freedoms as the basis for them being allowed more than one wife. Then will the government leaders have the guts to say No and invoke the Not-Withstanding Clause or will they instead capitulate as they did or will do with same-sex marriage?

The reason why Canada is a great country is because its constitution is loosely based on God's Biblical laws, as are the United States, England, and France. Let's leave the definition of marriage alone and get off the slippery slope we're about to put ourselves on.

If I were a minister of God, the words of St. Paul would be taken seriously and not ignored.

Once again, I enjoy reading every word of your great little paper. Do keep up the good journalism.

- William Deacon

Re: Mitchell Bridge

Do these people with all the cry realize the horse and buggy days are gone for good? Mr. Sherbino says there will be 150 hp boats up there. Well, they're there now, but only people with property have them to use. There is one stretch of Mitchell Creek where you couldn't run a big motor--just above the bridge.

The lakes are for everyone to use, not just the greedy. I tried to get them to raise it ten years ago, so I really hope they do it now before I die. People who do most of the hollering don't even fish or boat. As far as the loons are concerned, there are lots of them, and only one or two nest in the swamp. Mr. Sutherland wasn't concerned when he put the walk over to the island, and I couldn't even put a dock in.

It's all who you know, I guess.

- Chester CairdDay That Will Live in Infamy

March 21, 1991 is a day that will forever be infamous in Canada. On that day, the Supreme Court of Canada signed the death warrants of over a million people by deciding that unborn children are not persons. Since then, there have been over 100,000 abortions a year in Canada; 100,000 people a year that were murdered at their most defenseless stage.

How many scientists, doctors, politicians, friends have been exterminated? Perhaps one of them would have found the cure for cancer. Or maybe brought peace to the Middle East. We will never know.

But we can do something about it. We can help this holocaust to end. If each of us can change the heart of just one woman contemplating abortion, change the heart of one politician who supports abortion, we will be well on our way to ensuring the survival of the human race. Society is counting on us. The unborn children are counting on us. Let's not let them down.

Luke Procter

A more important issue than same-sex marriage

Reading the responses to Jean Brown's letter regarding same sex marriage has been interesting. It seems that the lessons intended by the biblical authors have been blurred at some point. Otherwise, there would be no debate.

However, there is a much more important issue at stake today in our society, one that outweighs same-sex marriage. It is the holocaust of abortion. And there is an undebatable biblical reference: "Thou shalt not kill." Let's start living what the Bible concretely teaches, then worry about the debatable parts. Ensure people will live past conception; otherwise, there's no point in debating same-sex marriage (or anything else for that matter), as there won't be a future generation to live with the outcome.

- Luke ProcterRe: "ATV Costs to Taxpayers?" March 17/05

It seems to me that South Frontenac council would want to know whether there would be any increased costs to taxpayers if ATVs are allowed on township roads. If there would be none, those residents not convinced that ATVs on their roads are such a good idea might feel better about having the bylaw passed. Those in favour would not have to worry about imposing a financial burden on the entire township. If in fact there would be significant costs, we should all know about it in advance. I feel it is irresponsible to

vote on any measure, no matter how popular, without

knowing what it is going to cost.

Wolfe Erlichman,

Re: Same sex marriage and modern Biblical scholarship.

In response to Reverend Jean Brown's letter, March 3, 2005, I would like to bring to your attention some references from the Bible about items

mentioned in her letter.

The first item from Rev. Jean Brown's letter is "modern Biblical scholarship". Turn in your Bible to II Timothy 4 and read verses 3 and 4. Now, is modern Biblical scholarship what II Timothy 4: 3, and 4 refer to?

Rev. Jean Brown also states that homosexuality or same-sex sexual acts are not mentioned. Turn in your Bible to Romans I, and read verses 22 to 32.

- Paul Liedtke

Open letter to Rick Bartolucci, Minister of Northern Development and Mines:

Last fall, I purchased a 12.9 acres piece of land in Tay Valley Township. There has been a mining claim on this property for 19 years. After the transfer of land to my name, I returned to find a changed landscape that resembled another planet: deep trenches that had not been backfilled were left on the property. As I crested the first hill, below me was a moonscape. The first words out of my mouth were, Houston, we have a problem.

I called the Sudbury office of Northern Development and Mines (MNDM) and was told that this was what happened when a company explored for minerals, even when the land belongs to someone. When I expressed concern that these trenches created a serious safety hazard, especially for children, and that I intended to backfill, I was told that the mining company could sue me. I am left wondering how MNDM operates for the benefit of Ontario if it encourages this type of practice.

When I suggested an inspection of the property, an employee of MNDM told me that Ontario is a big place. I dont know a lot about the Mining Act and your Ministry but I want a common sense answer. If you are in the business of handing out mining claims on private property, is it not your responsibility to make sure that public safety is the first consideration?

I understand that mining brings benefits through employment and providing raw materials for the products we use every day. Perhaps you can explain to me how digging trenches for almost 20 years contributes to the citizens of Ontario. I am a contractor and I know if I dragged a job on for that long, I would look like an idiot, an unemployed idiot. How many more years will you give people the right to come on my property without notice and dig trenches? At some point, I would like to have the right to enjoy the property that I purchased and pay taxes on.

You might well know that the perception is that exploration for minerals doesnt belong on private property. If my situation is an indication of how things operate, I have to agree. Many people believe that the Mining Act is so slanted that the landowners has no right to refuse clear cutting of trees, trenching, drilling and blasting. I would have to add - not to expect the areas to be cleaned up unless you raise a fuss. I have been told not to expect to be notified in the future when someone comes on my property to dig holes with heavy equipment. Does it make sense that this happens and they dont have to clean up the mess? I know what would happen to me if I left a job site in that state.

I believe that good government is fair to all residents and values life ahead of everything else. I trust that you will take a bit of your time to look at what is happening in my corner of Ontario. I suppose the Minister of Northern Development and Mines doesnt need permission to come on my property but I extend an invitation to you and would appreciate knowing when you are coming.

Sincerely,

Marty Cadieux

Trash

On Sunday, March 20, sometime between 10:30 am and noon someone dumped a load of trash on Kennebec Road. Not knowing who it was, I can only say that the person responsible is ignorant and arrogant, and has no concern for other people's property nor our forests and wild life.

For some months now someone has been dumping old tires and bags of trash in the area of Henderson and Kennebec Roads. The latest pile of trash consists of an old pink mattress, two steel bed springs, some unused carpet underlay, pink carpet remnants, empty paint cans, an old automatic bread maker, some smashed up drywall and other miscellaneous items. Surely someone knows who this is and will have the courage to identify the responsible individual to the OPP.

Those of us who live on Kennebec Road take pride in our surroundings and the natural habitant. It's bad enough to have to pick up bottles, cans, paper coffee cups, food

wrappers, etc., thrown out of passing vehicles without having someone dump their personal trash just because it's convenient for them.

J. G. Alexander

Marriage: the most important societal institution

I would like to express my views that marriage should be protected and remain as "the union of one man and one woman to the exclusion of all others".

Marriage is of critical importance to our society. It is perhaps the most important societal institution we have because it provides for the upbringing of children and is a foundation for strong, healthy families. Marriage ensures that children have the best chance to have both a mom and a dad in their lives. Marriage also ensures the continuation of society and provides family stability for future generations. Marriage between a man and woman is a unique relationship that simply cannot be replicated by any other relationship.

I am writing to respectfully request that you do everything possible to ensure that marriage is upheld as the union of one man and one woman. I look forward to your response and actions on behalf of marriage.

- Garnet and Lois Carswell

The Bible is the holy inspired Word of God

As a Bible believing Soldier of the Salvation Army, I believe that the Holy Bible is the Holy inspired Word of God. It is not to be interpreted for your own convenience. Lev. 20: 13 reads: If a man lies with man as with a woman they have both committed an abomination. Taking one verse out of a chapter of the Bible is misleading for this chapter also says: A man must not lie with his father's wife, daughter-in-law, mother-in-law, and beasts. Jesus spoke against adultery and just because it is acceptable today doesn't make it right in God's eyes, along with murder, pornography, stealing, abortion, etc. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Yes, Jesus did teach love and acceptance of all but he despises sin. He taught against the breaking of His Father's laws and commandments. Matt 15: 17-20, he never condoned sin.

The Salvation Army teaches love and acceptance of

anyone but we love the sinner, not the sin, just as Jesus taught. So many times, as with the woman caught in adultery, he didn't condemn her but told

her, "Sin no more." If you believe that whatever anyone does is O.K. as long as you love them, you miss the reason for Jesus' life, suffering, death, and resurrection. He taught total repentance of sin. Forgiveness of sins before you can enter the Kingdom of God. What is the point of Good Friday if Jesus

only died for some of our sins? (Definition of sin: The breaking of a religious law or moral principle especially through a willful act.) It concerns me that a pastor of the Church of God condones sin and approves of it in this way. Have you ever read James 3:1 - "Not many of you should presume to be teachers, because you know, that we who teach will be judged more strictly." You can call the joining of two people of the same sex in a relationship anything you want but it will never be Holy matrimony in the sight of God.

Mollie Wilson

Feature article, March 31, 2005

Feature article March 31 2005

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Survey reveals water quality is primary concern for those living in the vicinity of Bobs and Crow Lake

by Jeff Green

As it continues to work on a comprehensive lake plan, The Bobs and Crow Lake Association have released the result of a large survey they undertook last summer to determine peoples attitudes towards lake planning issues.

Twelve hundred surveys were hand delivered to summer residents, local business owners, farmers, and anyone living on or away from the lakes that has a connection, an interest in Bobs and Crow Lake. A large number of people, 549, responded, and the first question of the survey was designed to determine how those people who responded are connected to the Lake. Over 72% of the respondents said they reside on the lake seasonally; 15% described themselves as principal residents, and 8% as owners of vacant land.

When asked, the number one concern people had was with water quality in the lake, and they were also concerned about water quantity, peace and quiet, and shoreline degradation.

In terms of proposed measures to enhance water quality, the number response was to encourage septic re-inspection on waterfront properties.

These results from the survey reinforce what we had already been thinking, said Association President Susan OBrien-MacTaggart, and we are fortunate; it is my understanding that South Frontenac will be doing some re-inspections in the Green Bay area of Bobs Lake this summer.

Along with compiling the survey, the association has been gathering water quality data that has been collected over the years, along with all the historical information they can find about the two lakes, for a major report.

In general, the water quality is good, but there are sensitive areas that are of concern, MacTaggart said. Bobs and Crow Lakes make up a massive body of water, which is located in three different townships, and is accessed by roads from many directions. As we move forward with our Lake Plan, we want to make it clear it is not a project for the Bobs and Crow Lake Association; it is a plan for everybody, from the farmer to the full-time resident, to the commercial owner.

The survey, as large as it is, expresses the viewpoint one might expect from an existing lakefront population. They would like to see the lake stay basically as it is; are wary of but not necessarily opposed to development; and about 50% of respondents wanted to either limit or control growth.

On a question about what people valued about the lakes, the number two response behind water quality was peace and tranquility. It ranked higher than the natural environment as a value.

We know there will be development pressures on Bobs and Crow Lakes, MacTaggart said, There is vacant land on the shoreline, and we are aware of the value of waterfront property. The survey, along with all the information we are gathering for our lake plan, and the Official Plans of the townships, will all be used to make sure development is in the long term interest of the lake itself, and the people who have a vested interest in it.

The survey respondents also expressed concerns about maintaining the natural shoreline along the lakes, showed disdain for Personal Watercraft and large boats, and expressed a desire for increased fish stocking programs.

The Bobs and Crow Lake Association will be holding a Lake Plan Workshop on April 16 for commercial camp owners, and will be holding one later in the spring for general stakeholders. The Association AGM on July 31 will feature a large information tent on the grounds by the Glendower Hall. The Lake plan exercise will continue until 2006, when the plan is slated for completion.

Letters, March 31, 2005

Letters March 31 2005

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Re: Same-sex marriage

I commend and admire the Reverend Jean Brown for the compassion and courage she has shown.

In response to her letter, there has been a repetition of scanty Biblical quotesmostly Leviticus 20:13. In Old Testament days, no one knew about DNA, or that a fair percentage of the whole animal kingdom is homosexual. Does God make junk?

Jesus said nothing about homosexuality. Over the centuries, the homosexual community has given much of great value to the human race in all walks of life: music, art, literature, politics and religions. The Old Testament condones polygamy and slavery. It lumps women and slaves with animals as mans property. It also has the story of God ordering his chosen people to kill all the men, women, children and animals of another tribe. These are practices we no longer condone as we grope our way toward God.

Instead of throwing Bible quotes like stones at those we do not understand, let us begin practising the love and compassion of God that was incarnate in Jesusfor Heavens sake!

- Dorothy Proctor

BEWARE church leaders and intellectuals spouting church doctrine at the expense of the word of God. Rev 22:19 warns about adding or taking from Gods word. God will take away from him his share in the tree of life and the holy city.

Our walk with God is an individual decision between us and God. We must each seek His face and make a personal commitment to Him. Our link to Him is His word. Phil: 2:12 Work out your salvation with fear and trembling."

We must beware of leading others astray! Matt:18:6 Tells us the consequences of doing this "It would be better for him that a large millstone be hung around his neck and he be drowned in the depth of the sea." The issue here is you either believe ALL of Gods word or you dont. 2 Tim.3:5 warns us about these kind of people "they have a form of godliness denying the power thereof." Gods word is the power we need to feed our soul.

Gods word is the truth Isa: 44:19 "I the Lord speak the truth." Gods word is based on His character Num. 23:19 God is not a man that He can lie. Therefore Gods word is literal, infallible, and incapable of error!

All scripture is God breathed -2 Tim.3:16. By who? The Holy Spirit! This is its purpose "His word is for rebuking, correcting, and training in all righteousness." If we want to be right with God we had better not question His word but obey it. Matt. 14: 25-26 tells us the Holy Spirit will teach you all things. We dont need man to tell us what to believe. God is an equal opportunity God. We are all equal in His eyes. We dont have to be an intellectual or scholar to understand His word.

There are not two bibles - one for the so called wise and one for others. Job 5:13 He catches the wise in their craftiness and the schemes of the crafty are washed away. James 1:5: If you want wisdom just ask for it. Matt. 24:35 "Heaven and earth will pass away but my word will never pass away".

If we reject Gods word we reject Jesus Christ. John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. Jesus was the Word in the flesh.

Now based on Gods word lets look at the issue of same sex marriage. It has been said in a previous article that Jesus said nothing. In Matt. 19:4 Jesus quoted Gen.1: 23-24 in reference to marriage and divorce, confirming the importance of this passage in scripture. "Haven't you heard, He replied, that at the beginning the Creator made them male and female. For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united with his wife and they shall be one."

John 14:15 If you love Me obey My commands. When God says "Do not steal" He doesn't mean you can steal with an explanation. What is so hard to understand? When God says no it is no. God explains how he feels about homosexual behaviour and its consequences in Gen: 19; Lev. 18:22; Romans 1. 24-27; 2 Peter 2:6; Jude 6-7.

Luke 10:27 Love your neighbour as yourself. To do this we must separate the act from the person. Love the person, dislike the act. God does not teach prejudice towards our fellow man. On the contrary. Jesus was not a whimp. He told it like it was to the church people (the Pharisees) and others alike. He still healed them, loved them, and ultimately died for them. He loved them enough to tell them the truth in love as we should: John 8:11 " Go now and leave your life of sin."

I challenge anyone who has questions about this issue to read Gods word and pray about it. Ask God His perspective. Opinions, doctrine, arguing, and debating cannot stand against Gods word. Read, we cannot weigh the pros and cons and make right choices if we do not know the facts. The facts are in Gods word, Joshua 1:8 Do not let this book of the law depart from your mouth meditate on it day and night.

Hebrews 11:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever!

Gloria McEwen

Re: mysterious disease killing horses

I read this story and wanted more information. You many find some of the information I found useful.

http://www.pmu.ca/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=134

http://www.completerider.com/Listeriosis.htm

Reg Beattie

Editors note: On the website Manitoba Horse Finder an editorial commentary states .. the disease Whisper Syndrome does not exist, and cautions horse owners that claims of an outbreak of horse deaths from mysterious illnesses have not been substantiated.

Re Leona Euchres Lanark Landowners

Thank you for your March 17th editorial on Leona and the LLA. Most media have let the issue of the "dead deer" email pass largely without notice, let alone comment. You picked up on it, and rightly showed the Minister's strength in contrast to the victim image that Mr. Hillier's action tried to force on her.

In addition to the political points you made, there is another whole dimension to this thing that nobody seems to have questioned. Why did Hillier target Leona about the deer? As he knows very well - and repeated in the LLA press release that accompanied the email last June - it's not Dombrowskys Environment Ministry that's in charge of deer policy; its the Ministry of Natural Resources. That's headed up by a man, Dave Ramsay.

So was the dead deer dubbed "Dave"? No way. In fact, while sending Leona the gory photos, the LLA in the same press release "welcomed and invited" Ramsay and two other male politicians "to join their constituents to discuss the severe problems, learn of our resolve, and correct the injustice they are imposing on their rural constituents." This wasn't just a malicious personal attack on a politician, it was a sexist attack on a woman.

In this context especially, I think it is very unfair to label the Minister's anger "somewhat suspect" because she made it public some months after the event. For me, it's taken a while for what's really going on here to sink in, and I am angrier now over Hillier's action than I was when I first heard about it two weeks ago. And I'm not even the one who was targeted!

When someone is threatened or abused, it's a violation, and people don't usually go around talking about it right away. Sometimes the "processing" of such things can take years, even decades. There are plenty of examples in the news all the time (not to mention among our own friends and neighbours) of old outrages finally coming to light and justice being demanded. It's not up to me to say that's what happened here, but to suggest that a delay makes the anger or the claims any less valid is to ignore the way these things work.

You are also being far too kind to Hillier in allowing the possibility that his contemptible act of bullying had anything to do with "humour", however sophomoric. That's also how he tried to pass it off when challenged on the subject by the CBC. But it wont wash. Too many women know what its like to have various forms of abuse excused as "humour". Too many of us know that put-downs and threats, however indirect, are the very opposite of funny

- Helen Forsey

Re: continuous discourse on same sex marriage

I see that there is a continuing discourse on the meaning of marriage with respect to homosexuals currently extant in the pages of the Frontenac News. In the edition of March 24, Luke Procter brings up the important point that there are more important issues. Whether or not I agree or disagree as to what those issues are is irrelevant, but I do feel that when the Bible is quoted, it is important that accuracy is preserved. In his letter Mr. Procter states that 'there is an undebatable biblical reference'. There are in fact several references in the Bible placing strictures on killing. However I suspect that the author is referring to one of the Ten Commandments as listed in the book of Exodus chapter 20, verse 13 or perhaps in Deuteronomy Chapter 5, verse 7. It is unfortunate that I cannot transcribe the original Hebrew characters, and even if I could, I suspect that the paper may not have the font to print them. However the original words in Hebrew are "lo rawtsach". "lo" is a primitive particle meaning "not" - the simple or abstract negation and "rawtsach" is a primitive root which properly means "to dash to pieces", implies a human being, and was used to mean murder.

Now again, whether or not I consider "the holocaust of abortion" to be murder or not, is irrelevant. What is relevant is the philosophical difference between the absolute statement "Thou shalt not kill" and the more correct translation of Exodus 20:13 and Deuteronomy 5:7 as "You shall not murder"(WEB), "Do not put anyone to death without cause"(BBE), "Do not murder" (CEV), "Do not commit murder" (GNB), "Never Murder" (GW), "You shall not murder"(LITV), "Thou dost not murder"(YLT).

The slightly less correct translation of "lo rawtsach" as "Thou shalt not kill" in the King James Version of the Bible has frequently been misquoted and misunderstood and has been used to prohibit killing of all sorts, including that of animals for food. If one is to take the imprecation in this version of the Bible as being absolute, then it should be clear that hunting and even the eating of meat is prohibited. Obviously, killing in an absolute sense is not prohibited because in the Bible many animals are slaughtered for "burnt offerings". In Exodus 12:6 the Israelites are instructed to kill a male goat. Exodus 29:11 a bullock, Exodus 29:20 a ram. In fact there are dozens of instructions to kill animals. The book of Leviticus has many of instructions on how and when to kill animals. Generally the Hebrew word "shaukhat", to slaughter, is used. Indeed the killing of human beings is not, in an absolute sense, prohibited either.

In Exodus 4:24 "And it came to pass by way in the inn that the Lord met him and sought to kill him", the Lord himself "sought to kill", here the Hebrew word "mooth" (to cause the death) is used. This refers to a human being. In Numbers 31:17 "Now therefore kill every male among the little ones and kill every woman that hath known man by lying with him". Here the Hebrew word "haurag", smite with deadly intent, or murder, is used and refers to children.

Sometimes translators of the Bible have sought to soften and tone down the emotive impact of instructions to kill. In Esther:8 the Hebrew word "haurag" is used to specify that women and children be slaughtered. In Exodus, Leviticus and Deuteronomy laws are laid out as to how people are to conduct themselves. In Leviticus 24:21 it specifies that if a man kill ("naukau" - strike, in the sense of severely enough to kill) he too shall be killed in retribution. In Deuteronomy 19:21 "...a life for a life, an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth...". Interestingly here "nephesh" for life, refers to any living breathing creature, so can be interpreted to mean that if one kills another mans animal, one must produce a living one of the same, in return, or it can be seen to mean that if one kills another person, ones own life shall be forfeited.

In Exodus 21:22 reference is made to causing a miscarriage, which does not otherwise harm the woman, in this case though the child is killed, only a fine shall be levied. So even the killing of children is not, in an absolute sense, prohibited. In various places in the Bible, the point is made that killing with cause is allowable and therefore the statement that 'there is an undebatable biblical reference' is demonstrably incorrect.

- Simon Spanchak, Maberly

Feature article, March 17, 2005

Feature article March 17 2005

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Soaring On the Court

By Zannah Matson

The students at Sydenham High School have some accomplishments to celebrate to get them out of the winter blahs; especially some recent athletic wins by the many sports teams that add another aspect to high school life.

The most recent win by the girls was at the Eastern Ontario Championships that were played out in the Sydenham gym. The game was won in a quick, efficient manner, with the first three sets going to Sydenham. Mackenzie Secondary School, the team that they were competing against had come two hours to play this game, but the perfect record of the Sydenham girls prevailed into this game as well.

There was an overwhelming amount of support from the student body, with about 150 people coming out to cheer. In the traditional fashion, there was a drum line composed of several different percussion instruments, mainly metal garbage cans and pieces of wood. The energetic fans were able to watch this exciting victory from the comfort of the new bleachers that Sydenham just purchased using money that the students council has been saving for such an endeavor.

The school is excelling in other sports as well, with an excellent performance by Jack Kent and Andrew Davison on the badminton court with their recent goal medal accomplishment at an LCVI tournament. They were competing as a doubles team against the Kingston area teams.

Tara Harvey, a member of the girls volleyball team, has summed up the general atmosphere of the school: I am very proud to be a Sydenham Eagle.

Leading Style

The best place to see the new trends for spring was at the annual Sydenham High School Fashion Show!

This year there were several featured events incorporated into the traditional fashion show that made the event extremely interesting.

The theme of this years fashion show was Jet Set Fashion, and it had skits sprinkled throughout that were inspired by the television show The Amazing Race, and involved several of the drama club members. These themes progressed through the night, and eventually turned into a dancing competition. Andrew Herrington took center stage for this, as he preformed a Napoleon Dynamite act that was both courageous and entertaining. Danielle Doggett, a spectator deemed this act the highlight of the night, and many others agreed.

There was excellent turnout this year to see the show that progressed flawlessly through the evening, and featured clothing of all styles, from hiking to formal wear. Every set was choreographed to music that was artfully linked to the overall theme.

As Kendra Laily put the evening, it was a really good show that anyone can be in, regardless of experience or age. That epitomizes the overall concept behind a fashion show, to incorporate as many people as possible from as many interest groups as possible. It is definitely a time when everyone, from the tech crew, to the models can work toward a common goal and succeed as a group.

The staff also deserves to be commended for giving up their lunch hours and weekend to make the event a success and to motivate the students. With such a large group of students, and such a grand event, it is difficult to organize and manage, but they excelled in all aspects, and the results were visible and well worth the effort.

The clothing that was used came from stores across Kingston, and their contribution was definitely one of the most important aspects of the night that showcased a broad array of styles and cuts that will be seen as the snow melts and spring attire becomes more seasonable.

The spectacle was fun for all of the people that attended, and gave many hope that spring is just around the corner.

Distance, medical expenses, and income tax, Legalese, March 31, 2005

Legalese March 31 2005

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This column is not intended to provide legal advice. You should contact a lawyer to determine your legal rights and obligations.

Distance, Medical Expenses and Income Tax

Income Tax - two words, which, if you have to pay, can invoke all the unpleasantness of a toothache or the whirring of a dentists drill! While income tax is generally accepted as a necessary tithe to support essential government services, human nature being what it is, there arent many of us willing to pay one cent more than we have to.

On the brighter side, you can reduce your tax burden by taking advantage of all available tax credits and deductions. One such credit that can have a silver lining for rural residents who must travel for medical treatment is the medical expense tax credit.

Under the Income Tax Act certain medical travel expenses are recognized as allowable medical expenses that can be claimed as a non-refundable tax credit. The medical expense tax credit is a non-refundable credit that reduces the amount of federal tax payable. It is non-refundable because even if you do not need the full amount of the credit to reduce your federal tax payable to zero you will not receive a refund of the remainder.

Medical travel expenses that qualify as medical expenses for the purposes of the non- refundable credit include transportation costs to medical and dental appointments at least 40 km away (provided treatment is not available locally), as well as meal and accommodation costs when travelling more than 80 km.

The Income Tax Act provides both a detailed and simple calculation method, for determining medical travel expenses. Under the simple method the expense is equal to the number of kilometres travelled multiplied by the allowable cent per kilometre for the province or territory where your travel began. In Ontario the current rate is 45.5 cents/km. A simple or detailed method is also available for calculating meal expenses.

For the 2004 taxation year you can claim medical expenses (including medical travel expenses) that you paid for yourself, your spouse or common-law partner and your dependants in any 12-month period ending in 2004 that you did not claim in 2003. In order to claim the medical expense tax credit your total medical expenses must exceed the lesser of:

- 3% of your net income, or

- $1,813.00.

Additionally, you can only claim medical or dental expenses for which you were not and cannot be reimbursed. Consequently expenses covered by either the public, or your private, health insurance plan cannot be claimed.

Also, not all medical expenses can be claimed for the purposes of the medical expense tax credit. Only those expenses stipulated under federal Income Tax legislation qualify. Examples of qualifying medical expenses, in addition to medical travel and accommodation costs, include:

- Payments to a doctor, dentist, or nurse, or to a public or private licensed hospital;

- Payments for artificial limbs, wheelchairs, crutches, hearing aids, prescription eye glasses, contact lenses, laser eye surgery, dentures, pacemakers, and prescription drugs;

- Expenses for guide dogs and hearing-ear dogs;

- Payments for certain prescription medical devices;

- Some of the expenses for modifying your home or motor vehicle to allow you, your spouse or a dependant to be mobile and functional if either you or they have a mobility impairment or lack normal physical development;

- The cost of visual or vibratory signaling devices, such a visual fire alarm, to help people with a hearing impairment;

- Payments for therapy to help people adjust to speech or hearing loss, including training in lip reading and sign language;

- The cost of traveling by ambulance to or from hospital.

The above list of qualifying medical expenses is not exhaustive nor can this column possibly cover all the technicalities of determining eligibility for, or calculating and claiming the medical expense tax credit. Everyones situation is different.

However, if youve managed to wade through the column this far and would like more information you may wish to:

- talk to an accountant;

- telephone the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) at 1-800-959-8281; or

- visit the CRA web site @ www.cra-arc.gc.ca

Remember the deadline for filing your personal income tax return is April 30, 2005.

Susan Irwin, Lawyer/Executive Director

Feature article, March 17, 2005

Feature article March 17 2005

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Leona euchres Lanark Landowners

The Lanark Landowners Association planned a large action in Toronto last week, hoping for an opportunity to publicize the plight of rural Ontario at the hands of the Provincial Government.

Their rally was hindered by bad luck. In the middle of the rally a man set himself on fire. The TV and newspaper crews literally turned away from the rally, and many never did come back. But earlier in the day the Landowners message had already been diluted.

On the day before the Lanark Landowners rally, Environment Minister Leona Dombrowsky drew the Toronto media and the CBCs attention to a photo of a dead deer that Lanark Landowners President Randy Hiller had emailed to her, a picture that had the name Leona written on it. So when Randy Hillier was interviewed on CBC radio at 7:20 on the morning of the protest, more time was devoted to the emailed picture than was devoted to the government policies that the LLA seeks to reverse. Later, a defiant Leona Dombrowsky was heard on the radio saying she would not be intimidated by the Landowners tactics. And the Provincial Cabinet expressed solidarity with her. Hilliers response was relatively weak. Maybe we have a different sense of humour, he said.

Sending someone a photo of a dead deer with their name on it as a political statement shows, at best, a sophomoric cense of humour. At worst it is just plain offensive, comprising an implicit threat. Politically, it was foolish, and Leona Dombrowsky used it to her advantage last week, at the expense of Randy Hillier.

It turns out that the emailed picture was sent last June, making Dombrowskys anger last Tuesday seem somewhat suspect, coming as it does nine months after receiving the picture. Nonetheless the damage was done, and Steve Peters, the Ontario Agriculture Minister made a point of saying he was not going to meet with the Lanark Landowners as he had done when the Ontario Federation of Agriculture staged a rally in Toronto a week earlier.

The enmity between Leona Dombrowsky and Hillier is palpable. Hillier once told the Frontenac News that Dombrowsky was not welcome in Lanark County, and when the News asked Leona Dombrowsky about the Lanark Landowners, there was a silence, followed by the curt statement, I am aware of them, and she left it at that.

What Dombrowsky did to Hillier last week over the emailed picture is a demonstration that the Lanark Landowners are facing their most difficult political opponent yet. The Landowners rock is finding its hard place with Leona Dombrowsky.

Unlike almost all of the four million people in Toronto last week, and unlike most of her cabinet colleagues, Leona Dombrowsky understands the Landowners issues extremely well. In fact she has been working effectively to deal with some of the concerns.

While the Lanark Landowners are effective at fomenting outrage about a range of government actions, they are weak at acknowledging when a change has been made. In fact, the Province has reversed its policies regarding the taxing of sugar shacks as industrial sites; has refunded the taxation collected at the end of 2003 from seasonal campground owners; and Dombrowskys own Ministry has put a hold on water regulations 170/03, pending a review. The issue around sawdust, which was mentioned by Randy Hillier in Toronto last week, is also under review, and the Ministry of Natural Resources has made changes to deer hunting regulations as they pertain to farmers in Lanark, which was one of the original impetuses for the Lanark Landowners in the first place.

Behind the scenes, the Liberal Government in Ontario has been struggling to gain political control over the bureaucracies within the various departments, and the Ministry of the Environment has been no exception to this. A lot of the complaints from farmers and rural business owners have to do with bullying tactics of ministry officials in the way they apply regulations, and it is the job of the government to rein these people in.

The jury is still out as to whether the Ministry of he Environment can bring in effective environmental controls without hindering social and economic development in rural Ontario.

The ultimate basis for the Lanark Landowners ability to connect with rural Ontarians is the fact that international pressures and indifferent governments are crushing rural Ontario, and people are angry. Many government regulations have been poorly executed and badly implemented. This is all true. But for the Lanark Landowners to have a lasting impact, they need to come up with some practical solutions. The resolutions the Landowners brought to Queens Park last week were uniformly negative.

You cant sustain a movement by telling government to leave you alone and at the same time complain they arent helping you enough.