the fastest growing little publication around volume 3 ... 2010-03.pdf · volume 3 issue 12 march...

Volume 3 Issue 12

March 2010

the fastest growing little publication around

Next Publication Date: April 1 - Submission Deadline: March 15 at NOON

Determined to have their messageheard, the Nova Scotia Teachers'Union, Nova Scotia School BoardsAssociation, Nova Scotia Federationof Home and School Association,Nova Scotia Educational Administra-tors and La Fédération des parentsAcadians de la Nouvelle-Écossejoined forces.

Early in 2010, the Education Part-n e r s l a u n c h e d a w e b s i t e :www.savegrade2.com. Before thespring budget is announced, they insistfunding to education needs to be

increased by 3.6 per cent (equivalentto $36 million) in order to maintain thestatus quo.

Without adequate funding, it isfeared there will be, in part, wide-spread cuts to teaching positions,increased class sizes or double gradeclasses along with school closures anda reduction or elimination of pro-grams.

“As the president of the NovaScotia School Boards Association anda school board member for twenty-five years,” says Ronald Marks, “I

have seen first-hand the challengesthat school boards face as they con-tinue to operate with limited or noincrease in funding. Nova Scotia hasthe third lowest figure in the countryfor total expenditures per student,according to Statistics Canada.”

Marks goes on to point out theproposed 3.6 per cent increase doesnot include unsettled wages or newcontracts not yet negotiated.

Alexis Allen, president of NovaScotia Teachers’ Union explains,“Nova Scotians understand the gov-

ernment is facing difficult choices.The Education Partners also under-stand the government needs to tacklethe growing deficit. However, failingto invest in the province's future well-being and prosperity through theongoing support of the public educa-tion system would be both short-sighted and, ultimately, self-defeating.”

The Education Partners are urgingmembers of the general public to visittheir website to learn more about theircampaign.

Spring is in the air

It's not hard to tell when spring arrives at Ewe View Farm, Middle Musquodoboit. Lambing time is one of the busiest for Elizabeth Illingworth and Charles Killen, Middle Musquodoboit.

2 TownCryer March 2010

NDP hosts pre-budget consultations with publicBack to Balance, a series of public

meetings held in communitiesthroughout the province in recentweeks, prompted dialogue between thegeneral public and the Department ofFinance.

Gary Burrill, NDP MLA forColchester-Musquodoboit Valley says,“This is the largest, single pre-budgetconsultation in the province's history.”

When faced with the overview ofthe province's finances, it becameevident to the NDP steps have to betaken to ensure sustainability of currentprograms and services.

Participants at the meetings are

divided into groups. Each groupdesignates someone to record theirdiscussion and another to bespokesperson to report their group'ssuggestions.

Anyone who was unable to attendthe meetings has the opportunity tosubmit their ideas o

The public's feedback, relating tohow government can reduce theamount of money spent on programsand services, how to increase theamount of money taken in throughtaxes, fees and other sources, alongwith suggestions to grow the economy

over the long term, is welcome.With ever-rising expenses to

support existing programs and servicesand a drop in revenue from suchsources as federal transfer paymentsand the offshore, along with a globalrecession, Nova Scotians are facedwith serious challenges.

“The trajectory is to have us in alevel of debt that's so great, itcompromises our ability to operate,”expla ins Burr i l l . “There ' s anexpectation that government is going tocome and fix this. We're asking thepublic what ought to be done to returnsustainability.”

n the website:www.gov.ns.ca/finance/backtobalance

The MLAs disregard for spendingtaxpayers dollars enraged voters inNova Scotia. If excessive spending ofpublic money concerns people, thenwhy aren't more Nova Scotians upsetabout the millions of dollars spenttreating diet related chronic conditions?

Approximately 60 per cent of totalmedical care expenditures in NovaScotia are dedicated to treat people withchronic conditions such as cancer, Type2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease,stroke and obesity, as reported by Ron-ald Colman, Ph.D of GPI Atlantic, in aresearch report prepared in 2002.

In this report, it states, “It is esti-mated that 40 per cent of chronic condi-tions are preventable.”

Provincially, there's been a healthyeating strategy in place since 2005. Inpart, the aim is to make healthy foodaccessible and affordable, heightenawareness of consumers' food choicesand provide education to children andtheir families. As well, it is recognizedthat beyond individual efforts, commu-nities, community-based organizationsand all levels of government will have tomake a commitment to work together.

R e c e n t l y , E a s t e r n S h o r eMusquodoboit Community HealthBoard conducted This is Our Healthsurvey. In part, this preliminary researchwill provide Capital Health District 9information to identify priorities thatneed to be addressed when preparing the2010-2013 budget.

The phone survey contacted morethan 400 people living within the Eastern

Shore Musquodoboit Community HealthBoard jurisdiction. Of those polled, 79per cent of respondents reported havingat least one chronic condition (comparedto 66 per cent across the rest of CapitalHealth District 9).

Community Health Coordinator,Cathie Leslie says, "We need to maketime to prepare healthy meals at home.When shopping, read the labels andunderstand what those numbers mean."

Leslie continues, "As a community,we all need to take steps to becomehealthy. Perhaps local groups can orga-nize cooking classes that demonstratehow easily and affordably healthy mealscan be prepared or start a walking club orchallenge members of other groups toset activity goals and compete. We allneed to get involved."

Are you part of the problem or part of the solution?It has been recognized that food

manufacturers have been steadilyincreasing salt and sugar content inproducts over the past decades. Con-sumers are challenged, more than everbefore, to make healthy choices.

The Nova Scotia Healthy EatingStrategy is currently exploring ways forall Nova Scotians to access nutritiousfoods.

“There are multiple factors thatcontribute to chronic conditions,”explains Anne Marie Boone, PublicHealth Nurse, Middle Muquodoboit.“By becoming more physically activeand avoiding tobacco products and

alcohol, people can prevent chronicconditions. It's hard to get people readyto change though,” she says. “But, thereare many steps individuals may take toimprove and maintain their health.”

Currently, it costs the provinceapproximately $389.4 million a year totreat patients suffering from chronicdiseases. With an aging population andincreased costs in treating chronicconditions with medications and newand improved analyzing equipment, it isanticipated that millions more of healthcare dollars will have to be earmarked tocounter this crisis in the near future.

Fast Facts:March is nutrition awareness month!In the past two decades, there's beena trend for more people to eat awayfrom home more often.

Coincidentally, portion servings haveincreased over this same time period.

Since 1982, burgers are 112 per centbigger, bagels are 95 per cent biggerand a serving of pasta, typically, hasincreased by 480 per cent. (PortionDistortion)

March 2010 TownCryer 3

This ad space provided by The TownCryer and our great advertisers.

Literacy coordinator invites public's participationAdult learners, who have taken

charge of their future by improvingtheir reading and writing skills orenrolling in continuing educationprograms, are being celebrated acrossCanada during the week of Mar. 1 – 7.

Alanna Jones, Musquodoboit ValleyLiteracy Coordinator, has spent thispast year creating opportunities toengage people in the area to becomeinvolved.

“I'm a resource in the community,”says Jones. “I want to find out whatpeople want to do.”

An open invitation is extended to allmembers of the area served by Jones todrop by the Middleton United Church,Middle Musquodoboit, every secondThursday between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.beginning Mar. 11.

“The possibilities are endless,”J o n e s s a y s e n t h u s i a s t i c a l l y.“Participants can learn new computerskills, digital photography and othertechnology skills. Or, meet and discusswork and education options.”

The literacy coordinator goes on toexplain the Thursday sessions will be

driven by participants' needs.“This is a chance for everyone to get

involved. Volunteers are needed toshare their ideas and information andtheir literacy skills. Participants willhave a chance to create study groupsand discover ways to become involvedin the community. There's a children'splayroom at the church so parents canbring along their kids. There's a lendinglibrary, too,” she says.

For more information, pleasecontact: 384-3061.

Across Canada, the important rolebusiness associations play in thedevelopment of a thriving localeconomy has been realized. Ascommunity leaders, they set guidelinesto ensure each member consistentlydisplays professionalism in theirappearance and service and strives forcustomer satisfaction.

By joining forces, individualbusiness owners and entrepreneurs canalso enjoy the benefits of collectivelyworking together to attract potentialinvestors and consumers.

In 1996, 57 businesses establishedthe Musquodoboit Valley and AreaBusinessAssociation (MVABA).

In the past, this organization hasprovided support and information tonew and existing businesses. As well,the MVABA has hosted workshops,created a business directory andpromoted business development. In

recent years, it has been the sponsoringorganization of the MusquodoboitValley Job Search Centre.

In a memorandum of association,filed with the Registry of Joint Stockson Mar. 16, 2000, it is noted theobjectives of MVABA are: to worktogether networking to help offer ourproducts or services to more of ourneighbours and friends and to support,p r o m o t e a n d e n c o u r a g e t h edevelopment of business in theMusquodoboit area.

If you own a business and wish toparticipate in the growth of the localeconomy, you are encouraged to attendthe MVABA Annual General Meetingon Mar. 18, 12408, Hwy. 224 at 7:30p.m. This meeting is open to the generalpublic but only those in attendance withpaid membership are eligible to vote.For details about becoming a member,please phone: 384-2301.

Area business associationreports to community

Lions 100 Club DrawThank you to all supporters of the

Musquodoboit Valley Lions Club 2009100 Club Draw. Congratulations to all30 winners of the weekly prizes of $25,$15 and $10, and especially to TammyMyers, of Upper Musquodoboit, grandprize winner of $500.

Tickets are $20 and available inMarch for the spring 2010 draw. Contacta local Lion to purchase your tickets.

In 2011, the Middle Musquo-doboit Volunteer Fire Departmentwill be celebrating 50 years ofservice to the community.

In preparation for this event, BobRuggles, of Middle Musquodoboit,has been tasked to compile thedepartment's history through photosand stories.

If you have any images of pastparades that include Station No. 38fire trucks and firefighter volunteers orpictures of the bucket brigade once heldat the Halifax County Exhibition,please pass them along. Anyone whohas memories of the early days of thedepartment or perhaps had their home

saved by their efforts, is encouraged toshare their stories!

To become part of this effort, pleasecontact 384-2209 or 568-0026, mail:RR4 Middle Musquodoboit, B0N 1X0or email: [email protected]

Fire station turns half century


By: Sharon MacLeod

Tales of Canadian charity, especiallyregarding Haiti and its terrifying catas-trophe on Jan. 12, are legion.Middle Musquodoboit is just anotherexample. But, the fact that a village assmall as Middle (population of villageproper between 300 and 400) wouldsend off such a sizeable contribution tothe Canadian Red Cross: Haiti Earth-quakeAppeal speaks well of the connec-tion the Valley has to the world around it.In less than one month after the Carib-bean earthquake which claimed morethan 150,000 lives and left millionshomeless, concerned individuals in thisrural community responded.

Just days after the event, aMusquodoboit Rural High SchoolGrade 8 teacher, who prefers not to benamed, talked to her class about theHaitian disaster. The 13-year-old stu-dents took it from there. It was decidedto, as one student put it, “go beggin'”among students and staff at the highschool.

The plan was simple: decorate a fewlarge coffee cans and station themselvesstrategically throughout the school for aweek. Then, give the donations to theirteacher who promised to match the takeas best she could, and enable the schoolto make a contribution to the HaitiAppeal. The teacher expected, maybe,

her students to raise $100, if they werelucky. But, to her astonishment, theyouth raised a bit more than $350, (herbudget didn't quite stretch to an equalmatch, but it came close). NormArsenault and wife Sharon, ofMurchyville, felt there had to be some-thing they could do to help, too.

“Initially, the idea was a bake sale,”says Sharon, “but the bake sale turnedinto a benefit concert.”

On Feb. 7, at Musquodoboit ValleyEducation Centre, Middle Musquo-doboit, more than $5,000 was raisedfrom $5 admissions, donations and abake table.

“The bake sale came up with nearly$1,000 on its own,” says Sharon. “It hadto be filled twice!”

A number of volunteer technicianslike Wade Lively and Mike Miller, JohnTilley and Cory Taylor, and batches oftalent from across the Valley supportedthe benefit production. Local churches,too, did their part in raising funds for thedevastated country and donation canswere set up at the Royal Bank and theMusquodoboit Valley Co-op.

Since the resurrection of Haiti willtake not months, but years, volunteersaren't finished yet. In the comingmonths, there will be more ways forMusquodoboit Valley residents to showthis little valley has a great big heart.

Show of support for Haiti reliefexceeds all expectations

Original founders of the Musquodoboit Valley Cloggers were among the manyvolunteer performers at the Creating Hope for Haiti benefit on Feb. 7.Shown (l-r) Sisters: Debbie Sutherland, Martha Higgins and Rhonda Bellefontaine.

Photo: Karen Sibley

By: Norman and SharonArsenault

A heartfelt thank you is extended toall those who attended Creating Hopefor Haiti on Feb. 7 at the MusquodoboitValley Education Centre, MiddleMusquodoboit. Sincere thanks also goto the team of dedicated volunteers thathelped pull this event together, thesponsors of the event who covered thecosts of expenses, the talented line-up ofperformers and to the fabulous cooksfrom the Musquodoboit Valley whobaked up one heck of a storm – making itone of the largest, if not the largest, bakesale in Musquodoboit Valley's history.

It is with your support that net

proceeds were $5,219.83 with$4,719.83 eligible for matching by theCanadian government thus a grand totalof $9,939.66 going to the Canadian RedCross: Haiti EarthquakeAppeal.

We would also like to thank thosewho have given donations to the causesince the event. These will be forwardedon to the Canadian Red Cross: HaitiEarthquake Appeal. If you wish todonate to the Canadian Red Cross: HaitiEarthquake Appeal please visit theirwebsite at www.redcross.ca or phone 1-800-418-1111.

We did indeed “create hope forHaiti” and showed the world we care!

Creating Hope for Haiti:overwhelming success


For some kids, the best dates on theschool calendar mark holidays andextended vacations. This year, fromMar. 13 to 21, staff and students withinthe Halifax Regional School Board willbe on their spring break.

Next year, however, the usual Marchbreak will be pushed to February. Inaddition, another week, to be known asCanada Games break, will immediatelyfollow.

It was announced, in November2009, that schools in Halifax Regional

Municipality will close for two weeksbetween Feb. 14 and Feb. 25, inclusive,in support of the Halifax 2011 CanadaWinter Games.

Organizers of the Games recentlylaunched a recruitment campaign tosign up 5,000 volunteers who would bewilling to help with a variety of tasks.Anyone, at least 14 years of age by Feb.1, 2011, is eligible to apply to become avolunteer.

Those interested can apply atwww.canadagames2011.ca/

2011 Spring break offers studentsopportunity to volunteer

Boredom is not a word used bypatrons of the Stewiacke Public Library.This March break be sure to check outthe planned activities scheduled.

Children aged six years and older areencouraged to take part in Wii Fun andCard Games from 1: 30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.on Mar. 18.

On Mar. 19, everyone is welcome tohear people familiar with differentcultures present Multi-culturalStorytime between 10:30 a.m. and 12noon.

Please call 639-2481 to registerbecause space is limited. Visit:www.lovemylibrary.ca for more details.

Stewiacke Library: March break fun

This ad space provided by The TownCryer and our great advertisers

This site is a work in progress... watch for updates in next month’s TownCryer!

Nova Scotians who purchase energyfor their homes are eligible for a rebateof eight per cent - equivalent to theprovincial portion of the harmonizedsales tax (HST). The rebate applies to allsources of home heating energy includ-ing home heating fuel, natural gas,propane, firewood, wood pellets, coal,kerosene and electricity for homeheating use.

If you have paid HST onyour residential use energy purchase

and the rebate was not applied to yourbill, you have 24 months from the dateof purchase to apply for your rebate. Ifyou are interested in learning moreabout this rebate assistance, please visit:http://www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/access/business/your-energy-rebate/about-the-program.asp

Your Energy Rebate is a programdesigned to help Nova Scotians with therising cost of home energy. Visitwww.yourenergyrebate.ns.ca for moredetails.

The rebate does not depend on yourincome level.


Do you own your home and heat itwith oil, electricity, wood, propane,wood pellets, natural gas or coal? Areyou a single person with a net income of$27,000 or less or a family with anannual net income of $42,000 or less? Ifso, you may qualify for a rebate up to$200 to help offset heating costs.

The deadline for applications is Mar.31. Visit www.homeheatinghelp.ca formore details and application form.

It's not too late:Apply for your heatingassistance rebate

Homeowners get tax breakon energy purchases


Legion News, Branch 147

KXAVJ YR CNN KXO FOCMKZ HKANN NORK

CGYMVL ZYM CVL FO XCBBZ.

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Cryptoquote

February Cryptoquote answer: If all our misfortunes were laid in one commonheap, whence everyone must take an equal portion, most people would becontent to take their own and depart. - Socrates

By: Ken Burrows, Legion Vice-President

The Honours and Awards banquetheld on Feb. 6 was a rousing success.The food was excellent, speakersinteresting and the recipients wereappreciative. It was a fun-filledevening starting with a meet and greetand extending through to local enter-tainers at the conclusion.

A special thank you goes out toGary Burrill and Steven Streatch fortheir support and kind words.

Congratulations to all those whoreceived years of service pins andcertificates of appreciation. Valley

Branch 147 truly appreciates thesupport of the many dedicated mem-bers and volunteers. Their commit-ment allows the Legion to continue itswork of honouring and supporting theveterans, both older and younger, andto also serve the communities of theMusquodoboit Valley.

The Legion welcomes guests andpotential new members at the regularlyscheduled monthly meetings held thefirst Friday of each month at 8 p.m.

Come and see first hand what theLegion is doing for your communityand better yet - be a part of it!

March windAuthor: unknown

The first day of spring is March 20

March wind is a jolly fellow; He likes to joke and play.He turns umbrellas inside out; And blows men's hats away.

He calls the pussy willows And whispers in each ear,"Wake up you lazy little seeds; Don't you know that spring is here?"


Friends and family met at Valley View Villa, Middle Musquodoboit, on Jan. 2 to

congratulate Lewis Hartlin on the occasion of his 70th birthday. Shown (l-r): Gary

Burrill, Lewis Hartlin, Rev. Kay Dean andAnnika Sangster, D.M.

Smile! It's your birthday!

By: RCMP North Central Detachment

Advances in Internet-based tech-nology provide more opportunities forcriminals. From anywhere in the world,they can steal your personal informa-tion and use it to either rob you of yourexisting money or run up debts in yourname.

Recent changes to Bill S-4 nowmake it illegal to possess anotherperson's identity information forcriminal purposes. These amendmentsclose loopholes that previously existedby adding new offenses to the CriminalCode and expanding the definition ofexisting offenses.

Police agencies and the justicesystem both benefit from thesechanges. Identity theft and identityfraud are new offences, which were notalways covered by existing legislation.It is now illegal to possess devices usedto copy credit card data for criminalpurposes.

Fraud and identity theft often occurwhen mail is sent to the wrong address.Aperson can now be charged with theftof mail after the item has been deliv-ered. Previously, the charge was onlyapplicable if mail was stolen while it

was still in the postal system.To avoid identity theft:Protect your personal information.Shred any hard copy documents

that may identify you, your accountinformation or location.Always keep sight of your debit orcredit card when making pur-chases.On-line accounts need to havepassword protection. Never click

. Thatenables other users of your com-puter to access that account and allassociated information.Social networking sites may helppeople keep in touch with oneanother. But, make sure yourprivacy settings are set to onlyallow the people you want to viewyour information. Avoid revealingtoo much about yourself, yourfriends, family and employment.An identity theft statement is

available at:

which helps anyonewho has been a victim of identity theftto notify financial institutions, creditcard issuers and other companies.

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remember my password

www.phonebusters.com/images/IDTheftStatement.pdf

Identity theft: crime of the 21st century

Once a year, women around the worldcollectively celebrate their efforts thathave, over time, improved working andsocial environments.

The 2010 United Nations theme foris: Equal pay, equal opportunity:Progress for all.

International Womens' Day isbelieved to have originated from aprotest organized by a group of womenworking in clothing and textile factoriesin New York City, Mar. 8, 1857. Theywanted to draw attention to their poorworking conditions and low wages.

As recently as 12 years ago, womenin Canada, on average were earning 81cents for every dollar an hour earned bymen. Further, women with graduatedegrees earned 85 cents per hour forevery dollar earned by men with thesame level of education. The leasteducated women surveyed earned 71cents per hour for every dollar earned bymen with the same education.

Currently, there are three laws thataddress equal pay in Nova Scotia:Labour Standards Code, the HumanRightsAct and the Pay EquityAct.

Mar. 8: International Womens' Day

The AmericanLady Corset isthe ideal of everywoman whoknows - itemphasizes thebest lines offeminine form -yet the wearer isunconscious ofbeing undulycorseted, for theAmerican LadyCorset readilyprovides for allthe activity of thefigure, as well asfor properfunction of everyorgan of thebody.

Ad from The Ladies’ Home Journal, June 1916

Whoknows?

American LadyCorset Co., Inc.

$2.00

Let it be known

in the Valley of

Musquodoboit

in the county

of Halifax


THIS PRIME AD SPOT COULD BE YOURS! EMAIL: [email protected] FOR DETAILS

DATE EVENT LOCATION TIME ADMISSION DETAILS CONTACT INFO

BeginsMar. 1

GED ClassesJob Search Centre computer room, MiddleMusquodoboit

Mon, Tue, Wed 7-9pm

See details page 3. Alanna Jones: 384-3061

Mar. 1 Take Out Meal Gay’s River United Church 3–5 pm $7Ham, beans, scalloped potatoes. Proceeds to Gays RiverUnited Church Stewards.

Call 758-2201 to place your orderbefore Mar. 1.

Mar. 1-20 Family Winter Reading Club Stewiacke Library Prizes for the entire family. Ongoing registration. 639-2481 to register

Mar. 2 Band Concert Musquodoboit Rural High School 7 pm

Mar. 5 Auction 45s Card Party Meagher’s Grant Fire Hall 7 pm $4 Admission includes lunch, prizes.

Mar. 5 World Day of PrayerSt. James United Church, UpperMusquodoboit

4 pmProceeds to Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada. Potluck supper to follow.

384-2008

Mar. 6 Fun Darts Stewiacke Legion 7pm Everyone welcome!

Mar. 6 An Afternoon of MusicSt. Andrew’s United Church, 46 Main St. E.,Stewiacke

1:30 pm Goodwill OfferingFeaturing The Old Five and Dimers. Invited guests: WayneHiggins and Catherine Leaker. Tea and coffee. Canteen onsite. Proceeds to St. Andrew’s United Church.

Mar. 6 Meal and Coffee House Upper Musquodoboit Community Hall Doors open 6:30 pm$10

(19 yrs. & over)See details page 6. 568-2319

Mar. 6Riverside 4-H Public Speakingand Demonstration Day

Forestry Education Complex, MiddleMusquodoboit

9 am

Mar. 10 Morning Card Party Gay’s River Church basement, 421 Hwy. 224 10 am $6 Admission includes pot luck lunch.

Mar. 11 Darts Upper Musquodoboit Legion 7 pm

Mar. 11 Community Circle Meagher’s Grant Community Centre 9 am – noonService providers are invited to attend to discuss the needsof communities from Middle Musquodoboit to MusquodoboitHarbour. Led by Addiction Services.

Jeanine Cramm: 424-5102 [email protected]

Mar. 13 Dance Stewiacke Legion 8:30 pm – midnight $6 Open to members and guests.

Mar. 13Third Annual Scrabble forLiteracy

Middleton United Church, MiddleMusquodoboit - Storm date Mar. 20.

10 amFree Will Offering Snacks and prizes. Proceeds to local branch of Literacy

Nova Scotia. Bring a Scrabble game if you have one.Call Silvana Redden 384-3330 fordetails. Pre-registration required.

Mar. 13 Spinney Brothers Bicentennial Theatre 8 pm See details on page 9. 384-2819

Mar. 18Musquodoboit Valley & AreaBusiness Assoc. AGM

12408 Hwy. 224, Middle Musquodoboit 7:30 pm Everyone welcome! 384-2301

Mar. 19 Movie Night Meagher’s Grant Fire Hall 2 pm & 5 pm$3 (12 & under 2pm)

$5 (all ages 5pm)2 pm show includes movie, popcorn and beverage.5 pm show includes pizza and beverage.

Pre-register by calling 384-3008 or384-3218.

Mar. 21 Gospel ConcertMiddleton United Church, MiddleMusquodoboit

2 pm Good Will Offering Light lunch included. 384-2520

Mar. 25 Stewiacke Book Club Stewiacke Library 6:30 pm Discussion of The Road by Cormac McCarthy.Call 639-2481 to register. Visitwww.lovemylibrary.ca

Mar. 25 Darts Upper Musquodoboit Legion 7 pm

Mar. 27 Dance Stewiacke Legion 8:30 pm – midnight $6 Shared lunch. Open to members and guests.

Mar. 27 Coffee House St. Andrew’s United Church Hall, Stewiacke 6:30 pm Good Will OfferingEntertainers will be Ken & Heather Watt, Rosanna Burrill &Family and more.

Light lunch served. Everyonewelcome.

Mar. 27 Woodland Conference Winding River Elementary School, Stewiacke $25 Lunch included in registration fee.Preregister for a chance to win aGPS at www.woodlotinfoshop.caor call 1-888-375-2198

Mar. 28 Crib Tournament Upper Musquodoboit Legion 1:30 pm

Mar. 28 Bluegrass Country Gospel Bicentennial Theatre & Cultural Centre 1:30 pm See details page 9. 384-2819

Apr. 8Tri-County Scouting Area 7thAnnual Auction

Curly Portables, EnfieldViewing at 6:30 pm

Auction at 7 pm

$5 (Admission ticketredeemable withmeal purchase)

Proceeds help youth programs in the Tri-county Area:Enfield, Gays River, Lantz, Maitland, Middle Musquodoboit,Shubenacadie, and Upper Musquodoboit.

568-2679 or 261-2323


See you in churchS H A R O N P R E S B Y T E R I A NCHURCH:

ST. JAMES UNITED CHURCH:

RIVERSIDE UNITED CHURCH:

HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CHURCH:

MIDDLETON UNITED CHURCH:

WITTENBURG BAPTIST CHURCH:

GAYS RIVER UNITED CHURCH:

Lower Musquodoboit PastoralCharge:

ST. ANDREW'S UNITED CHURCH:

ST. JAMES' UNITED CHURCH:

ST. PAUL'S UNITED CHURCH:

Stewiacke Pastoral Charge:

SHARON UNITED CHURCH:

ST. ANDREW'S UNITED CHURCH:

(Dean) Sunday service at10 a.m.

(Upper Musquodoboit) Sundayservice at 10:15 a.m.

Riverside and Higginsville congrega-tions will have combined Sundayservices at Riverside throughout thewinter months at 9 a.m.

(Elmsvale) Saturday service at 4 p.m.

(Middle Musquodoboit) Sundayworship at 11 a.m.

(Wittenburg) Sunday school at 9:30a.m. Worship at 11 a.m.

Gays River, 421 Hwy. 224, Sundayservice at 9:30 am.

(Elderbank) Mar. 14 Service at 10 a.m.

(Meagher's Grant) Mar. 7 and 28Service at 10 a.m.

(Antrim) Mar. 21 Service at 10 a.m.

(4655Cloverdale Rd, East Stewiacke).Sunday service at 9.30 a.m.

(46 Main St. E, Stewiacke) Sundayservice at 11 a.m.

UNITED PENTECOSTAL CHURCHOF STEWIACKE: 28 Riverside Ave.Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. and 7p.m. Everyone welcome. Contact Rev.Lawrence Bunnell at 639-1966 formore information.

ENTRY DEADLINE: March 10, 2010.

GOOD LUCK!

Entries must be submitted by -NO hand delivered or email entries accepted. The first correct entry drawn from those received bythe deadline is the winner! The winner’s name will be published in the next issue of TheTownCryer. Mail your answer on this entry form to: Find The TownCryer Contest, Box 144, MiddleMusquodoboit, NS, B0N 1X0.

regular letter post

in a display ad

to a Bicentennial Theatre event!

WIN a FREE PASS

Name: _____________________________________________________________

Mailing Address: _____________________________________________________

City/Town: ____________________________________

Prov: _________ Postal Code: _________________

Phone: ______________________________________

I found The TownCryer in the _________________________________________ ad.

CONTEST# 1003

Let it be known

in the Valley of

Musquodoboit

in the county

of Halifax

CONGRATULATIONS TO LASTMONTH’S CONTEST WINNER!

Frances Rogers ofMiddle Musquodoboit

Answer: Headache Workshop

Ongoing events in our areaBingo:

Lions' Radio Bingo:

Auction 45s Card Party:

Foot Care Clinic:

F R E E A u r i c u l a r ( E a r )

Acupuncture:

Lego Club:

C r i b N i g h t :

every Monday night atthe Bicentennial Theatre, MiddleMusquodoboit. Starts at 7 p.m.Mini bingo starts at 6:30 p.m.

Tune in to99.5 FM radio Tuesdays at 7p.m. Purchase bingo ticketbooks @$5 at Reid's Restaurant(Middle Musquodoboit), Leba'sValley Supermarket (UpperMusquodoboit) and BrookfieldCo-op.

FirstMonday each month at St.Paul's United Church, 117 LakeEgmont Rd. 10 a.m.Adm. $6.

The thirdThursday of each month atLegion Branch No. 147, UpperMusquodoboit. Call 568-2509for details.

Thursdays atMusquodoboit Valley MemorialHospital. Seating limited,registration mandatory. Contact:Julie Prest at 772-2211.

Stewiacke Library.We meet every fourth Saturday.Next date: March 13 from 1:30p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Try the LegoHeart challenge. Call 639-2481to register.

U p p e rMusquodoboit Legion, Branch#147 every Wed. at 7:30 p.m.

Get Scrabbled!

Literacy Supporters Meeting:

Family Winter Reading Club:

Card socials:

Games Night for TeensScrabble Clubcontinues every 2nd Thurs.(Mar. 4 and 18) at 1 p.m. at theStewiacke Library. Newcomersalways welcome! Call 639-2481to register.

at Middleton United Churchboardroom/library every 2ndThurs. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Contact:Alanna Jones: 384-3061.

Stewiacke Library. Wonderfulprizes for the whole family. (Jan.27 – Mar. 20). Ongoingregistration: 639-2481.

Thursdays atMiddleton United Church,Middle Musquodoboit at 7 p.m.Crib and 63s. Adm.: $3 p.p. -prizes awarded.

- Fridaynights at 7 p.m. Carrolls CornerCommunity Centre. Enjoy airhockey, pool, cards, computergames and more! Call 758-2680for details.

“FIND THE TOWNCRYER” CONTEST SPONSORED BY

The Cumberland County Museum andAchieves is pleased to present the FredNicholasArt Exhibit.

Joseph George Fredrick (Fred) Nicholaswas born on June 12, 1891 in Coleshill,Buckinghamshire, England and immigratedto Montreal, Canada in 1913. He eventuallysettled in Amherst, Nova Scotia where heworked for the Canada Electric Companyand its successor The Nova Scotia PowerCorporation until he retired in 1964 at theage of 73.

Mr. Nicholas' love for art and studyingart began as a lad in Britain and continued inCanada where he studied by correspon-dence with the School of Applied Arts,Battle Creek, Michigan. Nicholas alsoattended summer school art sessions atnearby Mount Alison University inSackville, N.B. His artist tutors included Dr.Alfred Whitehead and Prof. Stanley Royalefor whom he held great respect.

Mr. Nicholas' works of art have beendescribed as sophisticated and complex. His

love for creating beautiful landscapes inwatercolour graces the homes of manyresidents in Amherst and throughoutCumberland County. The Exhibit willinclude pieces from the private collection ofCumberland County residents and piecesfrom the Cumberland County Museum andArchives.

The exhibit opens Mar. 2 and runs untilApr. 10, Tuesday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.and Saturdays 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admissionis $3 per person. Group and School Tourscan be arranged by calling (902) 667-2561.The Cumberland County Museum andArchives, 150 Church Street, Amherst isproud to support all local artists throughoutCumberland County.

www.cumberlandcountymuseum.com

“I am most concerned with paintingdirectly from nature, eliminating as muchdetail as possible, but endeavouring tocapture the mood, time of day and season.”Fred Nicholas, 1975


Cuttin' Corners:power bill blues

Have you had enough of thiswinter? Well, I certainly have but allindicators say we are not done yet. Thewoodpile goes down and the powerbills go up. Depressing to say the least,but maybe these tips can help turnthings around.

The most obvious tip is to turnlights off when you leave a room. Getyour kids to do the same. (I know, this isnot easy.) Switch to the new energyefficient bulbs.

Cook with your microwave asmuch as you can. This is one applianceI rarely use but it uses almost 50 percent less power than a regular oven.Keep drafts to a minimum, if you can.This means sealing up any open areasaround doors and windows. I found aterrible draft coming from under mystove, of all places. I think the cold airis coming through the big plug thestove uses.

Examine your power bills. Theyhave a history of your power consump-tion for the last year. Compare and seeif you are spending more or less thisyear and try to figure out why. Whatchanges have been made?

Not everyonecan afford newappliances but,if you are in the market, the EnergyStar rated models are always muchmore energy efficient. The olderrefrigerators are real power guzzlers.Afront-loading washing machine usesmuch less energy and water than a toploader.

Get your drippy taps fixed, they area huge waste of water.

TVs, DVD players, computers andphotocopiers all use energy even whenthey are turned off! Plug them into apower bar instead of a wall outlet.Then, turn the power bar off whenyou're done with them. It's well worththe price of a power bar to see thesavings.

The newer wood stoves are veryclean burning. You will find theyattract everyone who enters yourhome. There is nothing like a cozywood fire to relax you after a long day.If you are lucky enough to have one,make use of it.. often.

Until next time, I remain… thecheapskate.

Bit of a giggleSix retired Irishmen

were playing poker inO'Leary's apartmentwhen Paddy Murphyloses $500 on a singlehand, clutches hischest, and drops dead atthe table. Showingrespect for their fallenbrother, the other fivec o n t i n u e p l a y i n gstanding up.

Michael O'Connor looks around andasks, “Oh, me boys, someone got's to tellPaddy's wife. Who will it be?”

They draw straws. Paul Gallagherpicks the short one. They tell him to bediscreet, be gentle, don't make a badsituation any worse.

“Discreet??? I'm the most discreetIrishman you'll ever meet. Discretion isme middle name. Leave it to me.”Gallagher goes over to Murphy's houseand knocks on the door. Mrs. Murphyanswers and asks what he wants.Gallagher declares, “Your husband justlost $500 and is afraid to come home.”

“Tell him to drop dead!” saysMurphy's wife.

“I'll go tell him,” says Gallagher.

Who knew?�

�

�

�

�

Nova Scotia was claimed by JohnCabot in 1497 and is Britain'sonly colony named in Latin (NewScotland) by James I of England,VI of Scotland, in 1621.

Nova Scotia's motto, since 1625,has been: One defends and theother conquers

Nova Scotia’s official flower isthe Mayflower

Nova Scotia’s official tree is RedSpruce

Nova Scotia's official berry iswild blueberry

The Fred Nicholas Art Exhibit

Volunteer firefighters from thefive Musquodoboit Valleydepartments that make up Zone 3,Halifax Regional Fire andEmergency Service (HRFES),were honoured during an awardsbanquet held on Jan. 31 at HolyC r o s s C h u r c h , M i d d l eMusquodoboit.

F r o m n e w r e c r u i t s t ofirefighters, with as many as 40plus years of service, werecelebrated.

As Master of Ceremonies,Bob Rugg les , o f Midd leMusquodoboit, called membersto the front of the room to receivetheir awards. He noted it is rare tohave fathers and sons eachvolunteering for the same station.

“This has never happened in thehistory of our fire department,” he says.“Tonight, we have two: Reg Cox and hisson, Nick and Steve McNeil and his son,Trevor. Congratulations, men.”

Certificates were presented tofirefighters from Zone 3 who hadrecently completed: Basic FireFighting: Level 1 course, HalifaxRegional Fire and Emergency: BasicFire Fighting Level 1 and to those who

achieved Two-Day Fire Control CourseCertificates from the Nova ScotiaFirefighters' School. Five-year incre-ment certificates and lapel pins werethen presented, followed by the presen-tation of decorative wall plaques andstatues.

Councillor Steve Streatch ex-pressed his appreciation to thefirefighters for their demonstration ofdedication and commitment to the job.

As well, he extended congratula-tions to all those present fromMayor Peter Kelly, who wasunable to attend the night's event.

NDP MLA, Gary Burrill,joined others congratulating therecipients of service awards.“Firefighters are the most trustedgroup of volunteers,” saysBurrill. “Congratulations to all ofyou.”

Chief Craig Ruggles ofStation 38, Middle Musquo-doboit, thanked invited guests ofhonour for attending, includingPaul Hopkins, the Platoon Chieffor E Platoon, (E Platoon is thecareer day-staff in the ruralstations) and Gord West, the

acting District Chief for Zone 2 and 3along with Rob Patey, Zone Chief.

Other honoured guests, WandaEvans, Fire Service Payroll, ChiefRichard Arnold, Station 40, Chief JoeMacInnis, Station 39, Chief MeaganRushton, Station 39D, Chief JasonRoss, Station 35 and Chief KevinJodrey, Station 35D, were also acknowl-edged.

Our January meeting included aguest speaker, Dr. Shannon Coffin, DC.She was great, explaining how to liftand move properly when working inthe garden. She included some greattips on taking care of ourselves so wecan enjoy our active lives and stay painfree.

We elected a new executive for thecoming year. We were happy to seenew members joining us, too. We willbe planning events and outings for theupcoming garden season. Our flowerand plant sale in May will be bigger andbetter than ever so, don't miss that.

With these really cold tempera-tures, bird feeders are extremely busyplaces. Be sure to keep yours full andfree running. The birds are counting onyou.

Harrowsmith, a Canadian maga-

zine, has lots of ideas to keep you busy.There is always a garden project ortwo, complete with instructions andphotos. We have a few impatientmembers starting seedlings underlights or on windowsills. But, that doesnot top the gentleman in Porters Lakewe met. He has lettuce growingunder a heavy layer of kelp. This coldweather has us all house bound but, Ijust know once the snow disappearsand temperatures rise, we'll all be morethan happy to get outside and startputtering in our gardens.

outside


Awards’ night celebrates Zone 3 firefighters

Paul Hopkins, E Platoon Chief, presents Bob Ruggles, ofMiddle Musquodoboit, with a sculpted figure of a fire-fighterin recognition of his 40 plus years of volunteer service.

Guest speaker, new executive and more

TownCryer DonationsSincere thanks are extended to the

following readers of The TownCryer fortheir generous donations: Ross and JeanDares, Edna Benvie, and Susan Miller onbehalf of the Festival of Crafts.

The TownCryer is a free monthly publi-cation. If you wish to make a donation tohelp offset printing and distribution costs,your financial support is gratefully accepted.

Besides taking in Nova Scotia'sscenic countryside and seeking out localattractions, visitors to Nova Scotia lookforward to home-cooked meals servedat community halls and church suppers.

On Mar. 13, volunteers for theMusquodoboit Harbour Farmers'Market, with the support of Select NovaScotia, encourage folks to attend theirIncr Community Supper at theMusquodoboit Harbour Lions Hall, 43East Petpeswick Rd. from 3:30 p.m. to6:30 p.m.

For $8 (or $6 if you bring a donationto the Foodbank), diners will enjoybaked beans, fish cakes and chowders,made from locally produced ingredi-ents. Proceeds from this event go to theMusquodoboit Harbour PermanentBuilding fund. For more information,please call 889-3042.

EDIBLE

With an ever-increasing push byconsumers to know the source of theirfood, organizers of the MusquodoboitHarbour Farmers' Market, with theassistance of Seeds of DiversityCanada, are hosting the First AnnualSeedy Saturday on Mar. 13 at theMusquodoboit Harbour Lions Hall, 43East Petpeswick Road.

Anyone interested in learning how tocollect and save seeds, or wishes toswap seeds with other gardeners andfarmers, are encouraged to attend.

Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., guestspeakers will provide information abouta wide range of gardening topics. Aswell, there will be an opportunity topurchase heritage, native and organicseeds.

For more information pleasecontact: 889-2858.

Home-grown:Incr supperEDIBLE

Seedy Saturday:Farmers’ Market project

It's that timeagain

Daylight savings time

begins each year on the

second Sunday in March.

This year, March 14 at

2 a.m. marks its arrival.

Besides springing ahead

an hour, this is also a

good time to check

the batteries in your

smoke detectors!


UPDATED IN EACH ISSUE

For the convenience of our readers, the TownCryer Directory Express is a courtesy weextend to all business advertisers in this issue at no extra charge. If you would like toadvertise in the next issue and be included in our directory, call 384-2751 or [email protected]. Visit www.towncryernews.ca for our 2010Ad Rate Card.

ADVERTISING

BANKING/MORTGAGE SPECIALISTS

GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVES

GRAPHIC DESIGN / WEB DEVELOPMENT

HOME BUILDERS

HOME IMPROVEMENT/REPAIR

LAND CONSULTANTS

LAWYERS

PLUMBERS

POLICE

POOLS & SPAS

REALTORS

RECREATION

SUMMER CAMPS

TRAVEL CONSULTANTS

TownCryer News ..........................................................................................................384-2751

D.J. Cameron (RBC) ....................................................................................................751-0665

Councillor Steve Streatch ..................................................................................1-800-835-6428

KarSib Graphics ...........................................................................................................384-2562

Town & Country Homes................................................................................................639-1920

Terra Firma Consultants ...............................................................................................221-2135

Blackburn English.........................................................................................................883-2264

Carruthers MacDonell & Robson ...............................................................758-2591 / 883-2247

Pioneer Plumbing .........................................................................................................384-3230

RCMP North Central Detachment (Middle Musquodoboit) ..........................................384-3401

Emergency.............................................................................................................................911

Levy Pools .......................................................................................865-4373 / 1-888-222-7665

Kendalmark Realty .......................................................................................................221-2135

HRM Community Recreation ...........................................................490-6666 / 1-866-445-4415

Mount Traber Bible Camp ............................................................................................384-2238

Passport Travel................................................................................384-2301 / 1-866-384-2301

The Water Stoppers .....................................................................................................384-2693

FIREWOOD SUPPLY & DELIVERY

RGR Ltd. ......................................................................................................................751-1314

FOUND: FOR SALE:One pair of sunglassesand case on Feb. 11. Call 384-2751.

Multi-level cage,two pet rats and feedingsupplies.Asking $90. 384-2751.

FOR SALE: McClary fridgeWorks well.

BUYAND SELLYOUR ITEMS HERE: Place your classified ad for only $5 (up to20 words - 25 cents per word over 20). Classifieds also appear on our web site for onemonth.Your advertising dollars help pay for printing and distribution of next month'sissue. Submission deadline is the 15th of each month. Sorry! No business ads.

SALE: McClas well.

Ken Burrows221-2135

Ken Burrows221-2135

Ken Burrows221-2135

Ken Burrows221-2135

Ken Burrows221-2135

Ken Burrows221-2135

164 FRASER BACK RDONLY $84,900

Nice solid move-in condition, 4bdrm home o

erfect set-ting for privacy andenjoying nature.

ff the Caribou Rd inUpper Musquodoboit. P

GREENWOOD$74,900

Only 45 minutes from metro. 44acres with over 12,000 handplanted Norway Spruce and WhitePine, now 15 years old. This lovelyprivate parcel is waiting for yourdream cottage!

GRANVIEW ESTATESELMSVALE

STARTING AT $9,900Large country lots just minutesfrom Middle Musquodoboit. 2acres up to 6.5 acres. Anexcellent investment. Lots haveprotective covenants.

LAKE EGMONTTWO LOTS EACH

$49,900Lakefront lots within 45 mins. ofmetro are scarce. An excellentlifestyle choice andsound investment.

GLENMORE - SIBLEY RD4 ACRE LOTS

25 ACRE PARCELSMinutes from Middle Mus-quodoboit town square. High anddry with hardwood trees. 4-acrelots start at $14,900 - covenantprotected. 25-acre parcels start at$49,900 - ideal foryour cottage.

QUALITY LOTS NEARMUSQUODOBOIT

VALLEYIf you are interested in purchasinga lot in Enfield, Oldham, Oakfield,Grand Lake, Wellington, or FallRiver, call us. We can advise onnew home construction, sitepreparation and on-siteservices.



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Reid's Restaurant & Bakery (105 Elm Dr.)

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MIDDLE MUSQUODOBOIT

UPPER MUSQUODOBOIT

Haverstock Pharmasave (12280 Hwy. 224)

Horton's Convenience ( Hwy. 224)

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STEWIACKE

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SHUBENACADIE

FoodLand (50 Dunrovin Ave.)

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The Bear Den Café (7955 Hwy. 7)

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Carruthers MacDonell & Robson

(5 Mill Village Rd.)

12299

Stewart’s Garage (6 Hwy. 336)

(295 George St.)

Sable Island: Running the gauntletBy: Lyle Bates

As with many other locations inNorth America, spring was mostwelcome. The violent North Atlanticgales had abated and the moderatinginfluence of the Gulf Stream began to befelt in the more gentle breezes. On thesouth side of the Island, the water isshallow, deepening gradually, and is anatural spawning area for many formsof small sea-life and tiny land creatures.

During the year I spent on Sable, Inoted some winter bird activity includ-ing black ducks and the common eider.As the end of April approached and oninto May, a vast armada of sea birdscould be seen in the surrounding waters:terns, gulls, ducks, sandpipers andplovers. It was all very entertaining withevery daylight hour filled with acacophony of bird calls (especiallyalong the seemingly endless stretch ofthe south-side beach which was afavourite walking area for us when offduty).

As the days passed, nesting and egglaying began. The nests were, for themost part, merely indentations in thesoft sand and grassy areas adjacent tothe high tide region of the beach. Duringthe nesting period, we soon learned wewere not welcome as thousands ofparent birds considered us predators:out to destroy their nests, eggs or thenewly hatched young. At first, we wereslow to catch on and continued our daily

beach-patrols.The many varieties of terns were the

most ferocious. Because it was quitewarm, most of us wore headgear ofsome sort. The terns would swoop downdislodging all caps and hats! Weresorted to elastic straps to keep ourcaps in place (as we didn't care to travelthis area bare headed). The gulls, andsome others, resorted to dumping evilsmelling liquid bombs: the results oftheir rich seafood diet.

The onslaught by the determined seabirds won the battle. We decided toavoid the area as much as possible untilthe young birds were mobile - a coupleof weeks later.

Meanwhile, further inland, wesighted robins, sparrows and warblers,to name but a few. Most seemed to belost (perhaps blown off-shore byseasonal storms), gathering energy for afurther landfall attempt still some 150km. away on the Guysborough Countycoast.

Of these land birds, only a fewsparrows remained, which I laterlearned were probably the Ipswich,which is rare and is known to only neston Sable Island. How did such a tinybird find the way from its wintering areain the coastal sand dunes fromMassachusetts to Georgia, across manymiles of open sea to a tiny sand spit inthe NorthAtlantic?

Truly, one of the mysteries of life!

the fastest growing little publication around volume 3 ... 2010-03.pdf · volume 3 issue 12 march...

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