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LETTERS FROM OUR READERS
FEBRUARY 2012
Tax increase worse than reported - should have been 43.8 per cent
Dear Editor,
I just finished reading the latest edition of Focus on Scugog. It is always an enjoyable read.
The timely information on page ten, "It's Tax Season" was of particular interest. I had trouble reconciling the yearly total increases which are shown as Scugog 36.6% and Uxbridge 33.3%. I added the yearly increases shown and arrived at Scugog 43.8% and Uxbridge 38.4%.
If you add in the Regional property tax increases and MPAC property value assessments I believe we are fast reaching the point where many Scugog residents will simply have no choice but to move away from the area.
Every household is not only having to contend with these unsustainable annual property tax increases but having to find money to pay for escalating heating, hydro, insurance, grocery bills etc. No doubt many residents are already in serious financial trouble and will simply not have the means to cope.
Anyone who has ever been involved in developing and refining budgets knows a tough no nonsense professional approach is needed to justify every dollar proposed to be spent. A culture of strict cost control enforcement must be the mandate of each and every department and there is no room for "wish lists" particularly in tough economic times.
Subject to any acceptable explanation it certainly appears Scugog Township has been living and spending beyond its means these past number of years and very bold, tough and imaginative decisions are urgently needed now to drastically cut costs.
The indicated reduced tax increase of 4.24% municipal staff and council members have indicated as a preliminary increase is totally unacceptable, particularly given last years increase of 5.3%.
I can appreciate that the current new council is likely saddled with certain continuing costs that derive from decisions, or lack thereof, made by previous council. That being said only a bold, tough and imaginative approach to the 2012 budget will hold any proposed increase to between zero and the rate of inflation where it should be.
Ed Richards
Port Perry
Editors Note: Our apologies for the miscalculation of the ten-year tax totals. An increase of 36.6 per cent over ten years was certainly bad enough - but the correct total of 43.8 per cent makes it that much worse.
Focus website should be inclusive
Dear Editor,
Since becoming a Port Perry resident, I have enjoyed many articles from your magazine and I believe it's a very valuable medium for members of our community to share and voice their opinions and suggestions.
However, I am only able to enjoy your magazine through the narration of my brother or other family members. As a blind person, I rely on the internet to independently read news, books and other articles of interest. I finally decided to give you a 'Thumbs Down' because:
A. The website is difficult to navigate without sight.
B. All the online content, save for a recap of Thumbs, is presented using Adobe Flash buttons, which are impossible to navigate if you can't see.
For a magazine that is based on community and inclusiveness, your website is not inclusive or accessible, and I have to pass along this "Thumbs Down".
Thanks, and I hope to be able to enjoy the Focus on Scugog magazine independently in the near future.
Kyle Rawn
Port Perry
Editor's Note: Thank you for bringing this issue to our attention. Since receiving your letter, we have added a link to our webpage called "FOCUS in TEXT" which provides a text version of the articles and features. It was not our intention to exclude anyone from enjoying the magazine.
Loud pipes a help for motorcyclists
Dear Editor,
In the December issue of Focus on Scugog, I read the 'Thumbs Down' about noisy motorcycles which caused me to have mixed emotions.
First is my disappointment of why non-riders say things they do not know anything about, or have never experienced. How easy it is for them to suggest that the saying, "loud pipes save lives" is a misconception, when you are not a rider. The second is yes, sometimes I am embarrassed the pipes on my Harley are loud and they are stock pipes and thank my lucky stars they are.
I own two motorcycles and one is, as the writer stated, a 600 cc and much quieter. Last year in Utica that was the bike I was on when a van came out of a hidden driveway and almost ran me over. I am sure it scared both of us.
If it had of been the louder bike there is a chance the driver of the van may have given an extra look before pulling out.
When new motorcycle riders take their M1 and M2 the instructors will tell them that "loud pipes" don't save lives. They say that to drive home how important it is that they learn everything they can in the course.
I can't knock the classes, they are very important, but you can only control yourself not other drivers.
So even if my 'loud pipes' only alert one in four non-aware vehicle drivers to take a look at me, I have increased my chances by 25 per cent of not being in an accident. I like those odds and will continue to drive both bikes both with the same caution.
David Ard
Port Perry
Difference between MTO and MOE
Dear Editor,
I would like to respond to a letter posted in your December 2011 issue of Focus on Scugog. The letter, "Port Perry is not a place we will go," was written about "a pair of MTO officers running around your town charging people".
Let's set the story straight. Mr. Berry refers to these officers as "MTO environmental nutbars." Other than the "nutbar" comment, if they were doing environmental enforcement they were MOE enforcement officers (Ministry of the Environment), not MTO enforcement officers.
For the most part MTO enforcement officers look after commercial vehicle enforcement in the province. Although they have the authority to stop any motor vehicle their mandate is commercial vehicles. MOE officers enforce the Environmental Protecton Act on all vehicles. These officers were probably checking these vehicles for proper emissions equipment required by law, which makes perfect sense being a car show. Although they are not mechanics, they are trained inspectors as are MTO officers.
If they were MTO Officers checking these cars they would have been licensed mechanics and would have been checking for issues that would be a safety hazard to all who travel the highways including your town of Port Perry. MTO have a few officers who are in fact mechanics and inspect passenger cars. These 'licensed' officers look after investigations in regards to motor vehicle inspection stations and also partner with local police with street racing issues and modified motor vehicles.
I visit Port Perry on a regular basis as a bass fisherman and I love your town. It's a great place to visit. I have several friends and co-workers who live in town and surrounding area. Personally if I see any type of law enforcement whether it be police, MTO, MOE, conservation officers etc., it makes me feel safe and secure.
I have in fact been stopped on Lake Scugog by Durham Regonal Police and conservation officers for a boat inspection and to check my catch. I'm happy to comply. If I'm in contravention of any law I want to know so I can correct it, whether I'm charged or not. It's soley my responsibilty to know the laws regarding boating and fishing and I'm the only one responsible when I'm not in compliance. This is why they are out there, this is why you have such a great town.
I guess it's safe to assume by Mr. Berry's derogatory comments that he probably received a ticket for some defect on his vehicle. Would that be the fault of the officers or the vehicle owner? He refers to his car as a "legal hot rod". If that's the case then he has nothing to worry about.
R.S. Egan
Barrie, Ont
Bylaw helped control spread of disease
Dear Editor,
Regarding your article entitled "No spitting on the street," in the January issue of Focus on Scugog.
You'll find that this municial bylaw is/was not all that uncommon. The city of New York passed a similar bylaw in the 1880s, as did numerous other municipalities.
Spitting is an effective way of spreading respiratory diseases-tuberculosis and influenza in particular. The bylaws which prohibited spitting on floors and sidewalks were a public health measure.
Tuberculosis cases have been much more common in Canada in recent years. Something to think about.
Paul Puckrin
Port Perry
Seniors gifting program a huge success
Dear Editor,
On behalf of Joan and myself, we would like to thank all of those who supported the Community Gift Giving Program this past December.
With your help, all the residents at the Port Perry Nursing Home had a wonderful Christmas. We could not have achieved this without your support and we are grateful to be surrounded by such an amazing community – always willing to give and support those in need.
Once again, thank you to all the businesses and residents who made this Christmas unforgettable.
Joan Elliott,
Jill Howsam
JANUARY 2012
'Thumbs down' to ticketing vehicles
Dear Editor
I'd like to give a "Thumbs Down" to a Scugog bylaw officer, who on November 20, at approximately 3 p.m., was ticketing all the vehicles parked in the fire route in front of Port Perry Nursing Home and Port Perry Villa.
I'm positive some of these vehicles were band members entertaining shut-ins at the nursing home.
There was one problem I brought to his attention. He (the bylaw officer) was also illegally parked – in the event of emergency vehicles had to enter the property. Maybe he also should have parked on the road.
This young bylaw officer seems like a sensible young man – but I think he needs a little polish behind the ears.
Thanks.
O.A. Kennedy
Prince Albert
'Thumbs up' for great Predator Day
Dear Editor
We'd like to give up "thumbs up" to the Port Perry Minor Hockey Association for their "Predator Day', which provided players, parents and fans with lots of great hockey and other activities of interest in the lobby area throughout the day.
A special recognition to Valerie Kane, Heather Burnside and Adrianna Hansen for their hard work and contribution to what was a great hockey day in Port Perry.
Thanks.
Port Perry MoJacks Jr. C.
Hockey Club
Two 'Thumbs up' to Focus on Scugog
Hi Peter
First 'thumbs up' - left hand.
The article (For The Record) itself was great and the photo is one of the best that I have seen you do. Hard to believe that we did that in the middle of summer. The touch of attaching the 'Game Getter' stuff was neat. You go to that kind of trouble and always wonder if anybody notices or cares - two people have mentioned it to me and asked if I really have one!
Second 'thumbs up' - right hand, and most important.
You have absolutely no idea how far you have come with this publication in three or so years!
I don't think that your circulation policy has changed significantly since I was on the cover three and a half years ago, maybe by a couple of thousand or so, but believe me, your readership has! Focus is now read cover to cover and the retention rate is extremely high.
I'll give you a couple of examples.
Three years ago, a maximum of 23 people mentioned the front page to me while I was in town. This year, hidden away on page 40, without trying to count, I am well past the 200 mark.
Last Saturday (December 3) at Home Hardware, one of the smallest stores in town, six different people came up to me when I was in line!
And today was the neatest. I was at the Baagwating Christmas event and as soon as the formal part broke up, a couple from the other side of the room chased me down and asked if I had any special recipes for the 'Big Green Egg'. They had bought one in October and wanted to know if it was okay to use it during the winter. Another couple asked me about it when I was outside.
So, Peter, Focus on Scugog obviously has been very successful, congratulations on a job well done (not really a job, a labour of love).
Many thanks,
J. L. (Jamie) Ross
Port Perry
Editor's Note: Thanks for the glowing letter Jamie. We are pleased to hear you received so many favourable comments. It's gratifying for all of us here at Focus on Scugog to know the magazine is being well received by our readers.
Bell junction box has been moved
Dear Editor,
Thanks for the "Thumbs Up" you gave "Ma Bell" this week, we appreciate it. It was a long time to fix, no question. Unfortunately, the people that needed to know about the situation to fix it, were not aware. Once we found out, it was fixed within a very timely fashion.
Sometimes things get overlooked with us being such a huge company, but we try our best not to let it happen. So many of our employees care a great deal for Bell's customers and are proud to say they work at Bell. I write this email to your group for two reasons:
1. If you or your readers hear or see anything that is a "Ma Bell" issue, please contact me directly (information below) about the situation.
2. My love for Scugog – my parents live there and it is such a fantastic place. My father Ken loves the township so much he was actually a regional councillor for many years. He as well is a "Ma Bell" man (retired), and is very proud to say so.
Thank you again for the "Thumbs up"
Drew Gadsden
Manager Outside Plant Maintenance
Office: 905-433-3580
Cell: 416-524-4971
Classic car enthusiast explains 'tax grab' against vintage car owners
Dear Editor:
Re: Port Perry not a place to visit. (December Focus)
I would like to clarify this person's response. As an owner of two classic cars I know what Paul is referring to. It's the MOE (Ministry of Environment) that's on a "tax grab" in this area.
The MOE has changed its "ruling" on 'Classic' and 'Hot Rods' with "newer engines" in them at least three times in the last few years. At first it was year of car for emissions; then they made a change to whatever engine the car originally came with, and then they changed again to the year of engine, or whatever is "newer".
As an example, this means that if you put a 1998 engine in your 1955 Chevy, you have to have all the computer hook-ups, catalytic converters on the exhaust, EGR valve (exhaust gas recirculation), and?every other?piece of emissions equipment that came with?the engine.
It's not that our cars are illegal – the MOE are just "banging" the old car owners with fines that are outrageous?($366 for each piece missing). Our cars are very likely in better condition than many newer vehicles on the road today which are not driven an excessive amount of miles and we have "mega" dollars invested in them.
The Ontario government is doing its best to get old cars off the road, and with their new programs the older engines are not being made available for re-sale to us, so we have to go newer engines and the cost to "upgrade" with all the emission equipment, computers etc. puts the cost out the window.
Our engines are kept in tune and likely run cleaner than most cars today!!!?There was no notification of these changes until we started getting stopped and inspectors were checking engine numbers in their computer. It's like "shooting fish in a barrel" when they set up adjacent to meets and pull cars over when leaving the three?local cruises in the Port?Perry area.?
The "grey" area in their act has many loop holes in it – but you are guilty and have to prove yourself "innocent" in court. I know a few instances where license plates were removed for emission?infractions. I've been in contact with our local MPP on this issue and I wasn't the first person he had heard from. We are also getting hit at the Lindsay and Bridgenorth cruises!!!!
These guys are like the "Gestapo" when it comes to fines. I guess they have to appear to be doing something to justify their job and make it look like they are doing something. Meanwhile the daily drivers go by spewing fumes from cars that have probably never been inspected (mechanically) since they were bought.?
Sincerely
Peter Barber
Blackstock Ont.?
DECEMBER 2011
Clarification regarding local farms
Dear Editor,
As a member of the agricultural community in Durham Region I feel compelled to respond to a comment in the October issue of your magazine.
The tribute to Trewin Farm Equipment was a very nice feature on an agricultural business in Blackstock. However, I was concerned with the following: “When their dad started out there were dozens of local farms, small land holdings of 100 acres or so. Now they are all gone - most have been swallowed up by large corporations.”
This is an inaccurate depiction of agriculture. About 98 per cent of farms in Canada are family owned and operated. Yes, farms have increased in size over the past 50 years. Farming is big business; it is the second largest industry in Durham Region. This does not mean that farms are being run by large corporations.
Scugog residents can rest assured that local farms are owned and operated by people within our community - many who have deep roots in the land their own ancestors worked.
Nicole Swain
Blackstock
Questions integrity of shopping list
Dear Editor;
I am an avid reader of your publication and I recently read with interest your article in the October 2011 edition of Focus entitled “Shopping List”. It would appear the article was written to inform readers of a comparison shopping study of local “grocery stores”. The stores surveyed included: Sobey’s, Your Independent Grocer, Food Basics and Walmart.
I am unsure if the omission of Shoppers Drug Mart as a legitimate provider of food items was an oversight or deliberate, but I feel the integrity of the article was not complete without the inclusion of our store.
It is possible that Shoppers Drug Mart was not considered a ”grocery store” when the writer assembled the data, however since our relocation in 2010 customers have made it very clear that our store is a primary destination for food shopping.
Even more importantly, our food prices are extremely competitive and, in many cases, lower than the lowest prices you have published in your article.
In the interest of ensuring your readers get accurate and complete information, I thank you in advance for ensuring people see the complete picture when it comes to food retailers in Port Perry.
Sincerely,
Camille Casey, Front Store Manager
Shoppers Drug Mart Port Perry
Editor’s Note:
Thanks for you comments. For our survey, we chose the four “major” grocery stores as these are the only full service grocery stores in town. By that we mean they sell fresh meats, produce, seafoods in addition to all the other grocery products. We did not include Shoppers, Mac’s Milk, the Bargain Shop, the Trading Post or any others who all sell limited amounts of grocery items.
Gobsmacked by small town service
Dear Editor;
I had an appointment at the imaging centre in the medical building at Port Perry on Friday, October 28 for a scan. I arrived early after dropping my car at the mechanics for the day and sat drinking my coffee.
I was taking my last sip when it missed my mouth and spilled down the front of my shirt and I cried out “NO”. I have to wear this shirt all day now as I don’t have a car and was going out for the day with a friend.
Well John (who works there) came over and asked, “what are you here for today and how long will it take?” I told him it would take one hour so he asked me to come and get a gown on for my test and he would launder my t-shirt and and make it look like new again.
Well I was (gobsmacked), as we say in England, or (shocked) in Canada. He promptly took it away.
Jason was my technician and he made me feel very relaxed and explained everything he was going to do. I then saw a lady who does mammograms and she stopped to say hi! She is the most amazingly calm and reassuring person. When finished Jason went to hunt down my clean shirt and brought it to me clean and neatly folded.
The front desk staff at the centre are remarkably friendly and put you at ease. Wow, how lucky are we to live here in Port Perry. Where else could you go to get the kind of very special service which makes Port Perry the wonderful town it is?
Sheila Moxom
Port Perry
Port Perry is not a place we will go
Dear Editor
I am writing to inform you what is being said out here about your town. I have a legal hotrod, as do others which I travel to cruise shows, and let me tell you, Port Perry is not a place we will go ever.
The reason for this is that you have a pair of MTO officers running around your town charging people who have legal cars. The word has spread so everyone knows not to go there unless you want trouble.
We have many people telling us what these two have done this summer in Port Perry and you need to know your town is being destroyed as a place for a car show or cruise night.
We travel to cruise nights all over Ontario, but Port Perry is now off that map. I guess you won’t miss the business though.
I thought you would want to know what and who is driving business away from your town and it is two MTO environmental nutbars - neither of which, to my knowledge, is a certified mechanic.
Best regards and good luck.
Paul D. Berry
Peterborough, Ont.
Remembering our veterans
Dear Editor
Port Perry Villa residents Tom, Bob and Ruth were featured in your heartfelt story on the veterans of WWII.
They are three of many veterans living at the Villa to whom we owe a great debt of gratitude. Articles such as these rekindle our gratitude to all those who serve their country in war and in peace, and we are most proud to honour all of our veterans on November 11.
I would like to express my gratitude to Focus on Scugog for this poignant story and photos in the November issue. How fortunate we are to have these wonderful residents as a part of our Port Perry Villa Community.
Debbie Armstrong
Community Relations
Port Perry Villa
Thumbs down to noisy motorcycles
Dear Editor:
I have to question why it is that many ‘Harley’ owners take the factory silencers off their motorcycles exhaust systems and replace them with pipes that give next to no sound dampening. It isn’t to give more power, that has been proven to be a fallacy. More noise does not equal more power. “I like power as much as the next guy but not at the expense of someone else’s peace and quiet. A quiet 600cc sport bike would embarrass most big displacement V-twins.”
Then there’s the saying “loud pipes save lives”. This too, is a misconception. If you notice “many” people that don’t pay attention to big red trucks with flashing lights and sirens blaring do you really think a small vehicle with one headlight that sounds like a broken lawn mower ridden by a guy with a black leather jacket is going to get noticed?
It appears this noise is just some kind of need to attract attention, eg. “Hey look at me, and my noisy bike”. Unfortunately, their need for attention by way of their V-twin noisemakers is only annoying the rest of the public.
Maybe while polishing the spokes on your hog this winter, think about putting the mufflers back on and finding another way to get attention.
Sincerely
Scott Heard
Port Perry
P.S. I’m not big on loud dirtbikes and diesel pickups either. My definition of loud is 98db plus which is louder than factory legal.”
Editors Note:
Couldn’t agree more Scott. Just can’t imagine that car/truck owners would get away with mufflers as loud as those of some motorcycles. I’m sure if auto owners stripped down their muffling systems to straight pipes, they’d be pulled over in a nano-second and given a ticket for excessive noise.
NOVEMBER 2011
Everyone entitled to their opinion
Dear Focus
A big ‘thumbs down’ to the reader (and those like her) published in the October issue who complains about Walmart and Shoppers Drug Mart!
She is entitled to her opinion, as we all are, and if she chooses to boycott the big box stores and shop at small, private retailers on Queen Street, she can certainly do so. But enough of the over-bearing desire which seems so rampant in Scugog to stop others exercising ‘their’ choices.
Shoppers Drug Mart and Walmart employ a lot of local people, and before they were around we all knew a lot of people who’d drive out of town (Oshawa, even Toronto) to shop at big chain stores. Having them here offers us more choice and creates jobs and a bit cleaner environment (fewer cars on long shopping trips).
Live and let live!
Dave Ruch,
Scugog, ON
PS - I loved the photo in the September issue of the Osprey at the nest... which is sort of a “hawk”. Maybe you should have a nature columnist, there’s lots to discuss of interest around our township.
A gift for everyone at nursing home
Dear Editor
Once again we are calling for your help to publicize the “Community Gift Giving” program, in partnership with the Community Nursing Home.
The program works like this: We have adopted the Community Nursing Home and along with the support of the community, will ensure each resident of CNH will receive a Christmas gift this December.
Please join us in this wonderful program to aid in ensuring that each resident at the Community Nursing Home will have a gift to open this festive season.
Each gift will be memorable and will be wrapped in a beautiful Christmas bag with a card attached from the donor. The cost of each gift is $20.00. Cheques can be made out to “Community Gift Giving Program”.
We will issue a receipt that can be used for advertising and promotion. All gifts will be delivered prior to Christmas to the Nursing Home.
Thank you for helping to make this a bright Merry Christmas for the residents of the Community Nursing Home, some of whom do not have any loving families.
For more information, contact either Joan or Jillian.
Sincerely
Joan Elliott - 905-728-4220
Jillian Howsam - 905-985-2253
The soup is on and it’s delicious
Dear Editor
Thank you so much for your support of the “Soups On Us” project that started on Thursday, October 27. Last month’s article in Focus on Scugog will help bring public awareness to this special community service.
A free homemade soup lunch prepared and served by volunteers from four local churches and adults with special needs, can only add to the charm and uniqueness of Port Perry.
So we invite our community to make this a weekly habit throughout the winter and support a very worthwhile and delicious cause.
Sue Bradley, on behalf of the
‘Soups On Us’ volunteers
Editor’s Note:
For anyone who might have missed the article last month - ‘Soups On Us’ is a new weekly drop-in lunch for the entire community organized by a local Parents’ Support Group of adults with special needs along with representatives from four area churches. It is hosted in the Church of the Ascension hall, beside the church at 266 North Street.
Organizers, along with special needs adults, will prepare and serve up complementary delicious homemade soup, bread and dessert every Thursday from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. The entire community is welcome.
Shopping list was a little confusing
Dear Editor,
Upon reading your story titled, “Shopping List,” in the October Focus on Scugog, I found the article a little confusing when showing the prices for the items. You did not mention from which stores the prices were
attained.
Also your statement, “stores listed in random order” did not make it any clearer since it did not state what stores charged what price for the items.
Maybe next time you can list the stores and what they are charging so we can make an informed decision on where to shop.
Thanks
Daryle Gray
Port Perry
Editor’s Note: It was not our intention to identify which store has the best prices, only to point out that at any given time, each of the stores can have a ‘best price’. All the grocery stores in town provide great quality, selection and pricing - it’s up to the consumer to decide where they want to shop.
OCTOBER 2011
Reader suggests four ‘thumbs down’
Dear Editor
Here’s a ‘thumbs down’- actually four thumbs down for the intersection at Reach Street & Simcoe Street.
1. To the designers who neglected to plan for the heavy truck traffic and didn’t put in proper turning lanes. The way it’s structured, trucks have to either go into the left turn lane to turn right or drive over the curb.
2. To the truckers who use their jake brakes at 4:30 in the morning as they head out for work and then throughout the day. (If you’ve never heard them it’s a real treat)
3. To the hot rodders who want to show off their awesome mufflers and start-up speed.
4. And finally, to the speed demons who think that this section of highway is a drag strip.
And all of this at a corner that has an apartment building, retirement residence and nursing home.
Liz Fulford
Port Perry
Terry’s run one of best in recent years
Dear Editor
The Terry Fox Run is over for another year and participants were up by 25 per cent. A total of 513 registered compared to 403 in 2010. Also an amazing increase in the amount raised, the early projection is $31,000 compared to the final figure of $25,333 for 2010.
We don’t receive the final figure until next spring after the Terry Fox Foundation has completed all of the receipting. Worthy of mentioning is how fortunate we are in Scugog Township to have such caring and supportive people in our community.
So, a huge thank you to the participants, their sponsors, our 53 volunteers on run day and of course the sponsors for the barbecue. Also thank you for all the support that Focus on Scugog provides to the run.
Elizabeth McArthur
Port Perry
PS - I forwarded the link (www.scugogheritage.com/misc/terryfox.2011.htm) to your pictures of our run to the Terry Fox Foundation and the comment was that you can see in every picture the sense of commitment and positive interaction. I agree.
Support local downtown merchants
Dear Editor:
I am a partially disabled senior citizen (79) who usually avoids downtown on a Saturday morning because of the traffic, parking etc. However, Saturday, Sept. 10th was such a beautiful day that I decided to venture forth.
My first stop was at the CIBC bank where I was given some free chocolate, and that was just the beginning of a delightful morning. Next I went to Millar’s Market, where I enjoyed the best cinnamon bun I have ever tasted and discovered they have a wheelchair accessible entrance off the parking lot; so don’t be put off by the high steps on Queen Street.
Next I headed for Sobeys where I had an experience that to me is the essence of small-town living. I was initially dismayed to discover that they had only large bunches of broccoli for sale. I usually buy just a few crowns at a time. When I enquired of the produce clerk she offered to split a bunch with me. She went to the front of the store and paid for it and then came back and split it in two. I paid her directly for my half. You aren’t likely to get that kind of personalized, caring service at a large mall.
Remember the saying: “If we don’t use them, we will lose them!” I hope everyone will make a concerted effort to support our downtown merchants, especially the food stores. A “thumbs down” to whoever allowed Shopper’s and now Walmart to sell food, to the detriment of our existing, and perfectly adequate downtown stores.
Marjory Ueckert
Port Perry
SEPTEMBER 2011
Vandals destroy Caesarea memorial
Dear Editor:
My home was vandalized over the Caesarea Regatta weekend and I can only hope the damage wasn’t done by anyone who resides in our village.
There were quite a number who wreaked havoc Saturday night (Aug. 6) and early Sunday morning - smashing a car window and smashing our cement statue. This was no childish prank and I have to ask, “what in God’s earth were you hooligans thinking?”
The statue had just been refurbished, with countless hours of toil, in time for a “Celebration of Life” which we held for my husband Reg, on June 25 this year. The statue had been up for only five weeks before some vandals decided it would be fun to destroy.
It may have only been a statue to you, but the heart-
aches you caused by destroying this statue in my late husband’s memory will never go away for his family. It was a good thing I calmed down before writing.
Rene Renouf
Caesarea
Church is not to blame for balloons
I have read the ‘Thumbs’ in your August 2011 Focus issue. I understand the concerns of the writer regarding the balloons and the environment. Unfortunately the church is not to blame here. The fault is from lack of education and also perhaps the neglect of the seller of the balloons and the helium provider.
As a balloon artist, our company educates our consumers about balloons. Most balloons available today are from Qualatex. If the balloons used for this event were not ‘made in China’ then they are completely safe for the environment.
Qualatex balloons are biodegradable and when left behind they do not leach anything into the environment, rather they disintegrate from the sun and atmosphere, just like an oak leaf. Here is an informative link – http://www.balloonhq.com/BalloonCouncil/facts.html#litter .
Qualatex is a Canadian/American company that makes their balloons right in Canada and United States.
Helium in a balloon, accidentally released, will go up into the atmosphere, freezes and explodes into tiny pieces, not a risk to an animal if they eat a piece of the balloon. Most healthy animals will not eat the balloon. Balloons in the right hands, can be a great asset to any event!
Cynthia Hiatt
Big Eddies Balloons
‘Thumbs Down’ to Focus
Dear Editor:
First off I’d like to congratulate you on a fantastic magazine. My dad drops them off at my office, where they are thoroughly enjoyed by my patients and myself. I look forward to reading about where I grew up.
I enjoyed July’s issue until I saw the pictures documenting the Canoe the Nonquon race. It was disappointing to see that the participants were not wearing life jackets or PFD’s. A recent article from the Globe and Mail indicates that there has been a 9% increase in drowning deaths this year compared to last. With the high numbers of drownings that have occurred recently, I am disappointed that your magazine chose to publish these pictures instead of ones where the participants were wearing appropriate PFD’s.
I believe you have a moral and ethical responsibility to not only report what is going on but do so in a way that educates and informs the public on what would be responsible behaviour.
I am giving you a thumbs down for not choosing other pictures to publish that showed people being responsible on the water, a thumbs down to the participants for not wearing their life jackets and a thumbs down to the organizers for not making the wearing of life jackets mandatory for participating in the race.
A lackadaisical approach to water safety should not be promoted in a magazine that has a lake (Scugog) in it’s name. Like the commercial on T.V. a life jacket floating on the water or still in the boat can’t save a life.
Yours in Health
Anthony Duivesteyn B.Sc., D.C.
Whitby, Ontario
AUGUST 2011
Hospital Auxiliary says ‘thanks’
The Auxiliary of Lakeridge Health Port Perry would like to thank the people of Port Perry and the surrounding community for their generous support of Tag Days. They donated $10,435 to the Hospital Auxiliary.
Not only were people generous with their money, but we heard many uplifting stories about the Port Perry Hospital. Some told us that they were born there so, of course, would donate. Young mothers said that their children were all born there and told stories about the great treatment they recieved at the hospital.
Still others told heart warming stories about the kind, compassionate care that aging parents received at the end of their life. And we received one amazing surprise when we opened a box to find a $100 bill tucked inside.
Approximately 90 volunteers willingly took part and while most were out meeting people, three dedicated volunteers counted and rolled over $10,000 worth of bills and coins. All were amazing.
The Auxiliary has committed to two fetal heart monitors, a wireless monitor and two medication carts, all of which have arrived at the hospital. Still on order are two beds with floor pad, another medication cart, seven specialty sleep surfaces and a washer/disinfector.
Because of the generosity of the community, this equipment will be paid for shortly and the Auxiliary can begin fundraising for other needed items.
A sincere thank you goes out to all who contributed, to all who volunteered and to the local media for their coverage of the event.
Ruth Spearing
Tag Day Coordinator
Pooper Scooper gets results
Thank you for the feature article on our goose waste removal machine and service in the July issue of Focus on Scugog.
Your readership extends way beyond the borders of Scugog Township. We have secured new clients as far away as Bobcageon due to the article. A summer job was also created for a Scugog resident due to the increase in business.
We’re hopeful that some local municipalities will jump on board, but until then, enjoy your summer
and watch where you step!
Sincerely,
John Galbraith
www.petservice.ca
Dragon Boat Races a success
Dear Editor:
A small army of paddlers helped raise more than $142,000 for the battle against breast cancer when they took to Lake Scugog for the seventh annual Dragon Flies Dragon Boat Festival.
Held June 18, along the shores of Port Perry’s Palmer Park, the festival fundraiser attracted 1,400 paddlers and more than 100 volunteers whose hard work translated into thousands of dollars to help increase breast cancer awareness and provide support programs for breast cancer survivors.
The funds will also be used to assist the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer in four local hospitals, including Lakeridge Health Port Perry, Uxbridge Cottage Hospital, the R.S. McLaughlin Durham Regional Cancer Centre in Oshawa and Ross Memorial Hospital in the City of Kawartha Lakes.
Last year, the dragon boat festival raised more than $153,000.
Sincerely
The Dragon Flies
JUNE 2011
Church Chicks were thrilled with
response to Easter Bonnet contest
Dear Editor
On behalf of Church Chicks United, we would like to express our deepest thanks to you and your staff for your incredible support and coverage of our second annual “Port Perry Easter Bonnet Contest”.
In just over an hour the Chicks collected $1077.80 in public donations to the Scugog Memorial Library Children’s and Teen Section. Together R.H. Cornish, Immaculate Conception Elementary, Prince Albert P.S. and Children’s House Montessori School raised $752.37 by participating in Crazy Hat Day (done in conjunction with the Bonnet Contest). That’s a grand total of $1830.17 going directly to the Scugog Memorial Library Children’s and Teen Section!
A special thanks also to our two main sponsors: Vos’ Independent (ribbon sponsor) and Cakes by Stephanie (cupcakes for all).
Additional thanks to our esteemed hat judges (Mayor Mercier, Amy Caughlin and Birgitta MacLeod), Kenna Kozak at the Scugog Chamber of Commerce, DJ Clint Killeen, Irv Gibson, Tim at Scugog Lumber and Dave at the Canadian Legion.
Last but not least, thanks to Ken Koury of the Nutty Chocolatier for his amazing chocolate bunnies and for graciously sharing Queen Street with the Church Chicks.
Of course, this is all about fun for the kids- so hats off to every man, woman and child for enthusiastically supporting (and wearing spectacular hats!) to Port Perry’s 2nd Annual Easter Bonnet Contest.
Very truly yours,
Pam Hollett & Amy Killeen
co-chairs Easter Bonnet Contest
Church Chicks United
‘Thumbs Up’ to a tireless worker
Hi Peter and MaryAnn.
I just wanted to thank Focus on Scugog again for all the support you provided to our Heart & Stroke “Person to Person Campaign” in Scugog Township this year.
I was pleasantly surprised to find our total was over $24,000. We were short of our goal, but the volunteers who joined the team gave their best effort and collected this amazing amount.
I want to give a ‘Thumbs Up’ to Dorothy Gibson who has been volunteering for The Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario in Scugog Township for more than 35 years.
Every year she organizes the campaign. Beginning in October she picks up materials from the Whitby office and finds captains for many of the 30 areas in Scugog Township. She prepares the 200 canvassers’ kits and hosts meetings for the Zone Leaders and Heart & Stroke staff. If she can’t find a captain for a certain area then she takes on that role. Dorothy canvasses too.
When February is over she continues working collecting the kits, banking the money and writing reports.
Finally Dorothy hosts a “Thank You Tea” for the captains, where we share the results of the campaign. At this time Dorothy also gives out “Years of Service Pins” based on her records, which she updates annually.
It is a pleasure working beside Dorothy. She puts her heart into it.
Sincerely
Judy Anderson
APRIL 2011
Tim gets his five minutes of fame
Dear Editor:
We would like to thank you for printing the article about the family dairy business (Olive Farm Dairy). It was amazing how quickly there was a reaction to it.
Within 24 hours we had seven different responses. One lady even stopped Tim on the street to say she had seen the article and had also seen Tim around town before. Another woman called to say her father worked at the dairy. She knew many of the names of the drivers and family. We forwarded her call on to Jennifer (the genealogist of the family).
Another woman called to give us the name of her grandfather in Mount Albert who we think may have a few pieces of memorabilia in his collection.
I guess this is Tim’s five minutes of fame. It’s been very exciting and we can’t wait to see what else shows up in the near future.
Sincerely,
Tim and Karen English
Rev up your bikes
Dear Editor
On Saturday, June 11 the Durham Chapter of the Motorcycle Ride For Dad will hold its sixth annual ride, departing from Clarington Honda in Bowmanville at 9:30 a.m., taking a scenic route through the Durham Region.
There will be poker stops along the way, a lunch, live entertainment and prizes will be provided at the end of the day.
Dr. RobertBristow from the Princess Margaret Hospital, recipient of our 2009 grant, will be the guest speaker and will share the findings of his research.
Last years’ ride had 200 devout riders that defied the weather forecast, rode through Durham as far north as Beaverton, back through Blackstock to Whitby Honda and raised $30,000.00 for prostate cancer research and awareness.
You can register for this year’s ride at the address below. The $25.00 registration fee will be reimbursed, if desired, when $100 or more in pledges are collected. The riders who raise more than $100 in pledges will receive a door prize ticket and a V anniversary ride vest pin. As well, the three top pledge earners will receive a prize.
Prostate cancer is contracted by one in five men. Over 4,000 Canadian men die annually from the disease. Part of our goal is to make men more aware of the disease and urge them to get checked annually.
We invite anyone interested to come and ride with us and join the fight. If you don’t ride, come on out and volunteer; we can always use the help.
Register at: www.motorcycleridefordad.org/durham
Sincerely
Wolfgang Palleske
Durham Ride for Dad
MARCH 2011
Seeking location of childhood home
Dear Editor:
My name is Moe Gardner and my family lived in Port Perry during the early 1960s. Our parents, Harry and Marie Gardner, are both gone now and the family has been trying to locate where we lived in the town.
I am providing you some information that may be helpful in someone recalling our family and where we might have lived at that time.
There were three children in our family, Kathleen, 12, Allan, 7 and Morris, 3 (1961) and my father worked with the Bank of Commerce, possibly assistant to the manager.
We lived in Port Perry for about three years from about 1960 to 1963. My sister was quite ill and spent a lot of time in the hospital. I was in a nursery school then. All I remember was the lady who ran the nursery school was considerably older than my mother, so maybe 55-60 years and her husband’s name was ‘Gar’ (as in Garfield?)
My father coached hockey so he may be remembered for that, as any male 55 or so now who played as a child would have been coached by him. He was also a scout leader, along with John Beckett from the Scugog Island. The kids used to come up to our cottage in the Kawarthas to camp.
At that time, and to some degree now, local bank officers were more or less compelled by head office to be a member of as many civic organizations in the community as possible. He may have at that time been with the Orange Lodge as well as the Lions Club, as I know he was with both at sometime.
I hope this helps jog someone’s memory and we can find the house we lived in while growing up in Port Perry.
Moe Gardner
moe_gardner@hotmail.com
Editor’s Note: Anyone who can help the family locate their home is asked to either contact Moe Gardner at the email address above using the subject name “Gardner family”, or call Focus on Scugog and we will forward the information to the family.
Last word on the abortion exchange
Dear Editor:
I stand corrected, Chris Gainey is right that Canada has no legal restrictions on abortion. Any woman capable of conceiving, regardless of age, can request a legal abortion (availability of such services is another matter). I was one of legions of women who celebrated when abortion was struck from the criminal code in 1988, making that possible.
It would indeed be “sadly ironic” if I were really so misinformed, but, as it turns out, what I’m guilty of is carelessness in saying that late term abortion is illegal in Canada. What I should have said is that abortion after 20 weeks is against Canadian Medical Association policy (except under exceptional circumstances).
In my experience at the Morgentaler Clinic, this policy is very strictly adhered to. As I understand it, failure to adhere to CMA policy can leave doctors open to complaints to the College of Physicians and Surgeons, and to possible disciplinary action and litigation. So, while it’s not illegal, it’s not available on request the way it is in some places in the USA.
According to CMA guidelines late term abortions (after 20 weeks) can be done if there are severe fetal or maternal health issues. However since these account for only 0.3% of abortions performed in Canada, I think it’s fair to say that the purpose of waving those grisly pictures of late term abortions in our faces had nothing to do with educating people about what’s going on in our clinics and hospitals.
I know that there are caring ethical people on both sides of this debate. Some people feel very passionately that life starts at conception, that the fetus before 20 weeks is more than just a collection of cells, and that abortion involves killing a defenseless human life. Other just as caring and ethical people feel passionately that it is up to individual women to decide, as early as possible, whether or not they want to continue with their pregnancies.
Women in this crisis situation can be very vulnerable, especially very young women. While they can request someone, such as their mother, friend, or boyfriend, to accompany them into the counselling session(s), I believe the main agenda should be to help that woman to make up her own mind. I have counselled some women who, although they came to the clinic to get an abortion, ultimately chose to continue their pregnancies.
I stand by what I said in my original letter; I resent that an extremist anti-abortion group misrepresented what goes on in Canadian clinics and hospitals. Their posters were designed to shock, not educate the public.
It is disrespectful toward ethical people on both sides of the discussion to muddy the waters with tactics that inflame passions and do nothing to open channels of communication among us. Thumbs down to them.
Respectfully,
Lise Saint-Cyr,
Port Perry
Editor’s Note: This debate on abortion has been going on for a number of months now and it’s unlikely the writers will ever be in complete agreement. While we encourage discussion and exchange of ideas, we feel we’ve provided adequate space to this topic at this time. We thank both parties for the views.
FEBRUARY 2011
Abortion comments are misinformed
Dear Editor
How sadly ironic that Lise Saint-Cyr, who describes herself as a former abortion counsellor at the Morgentaler Clinic in Toronto, claims that Canadian law imposes a legal limit of twenty weeks on abortion. Any internet search of “abortion laws Canada” will provide the facts.
The simple truth is that Canada has had absolutely no legal abortion restrictions since 1988.
The absence of an abortion law of any kind means that every Canadian woman physically capable of conceiving, regardless of her age, her circumstances, and the age of the unborn life she carries, is legally entitled to a tax-payer funded abortion.
Very young women do not require parental consent. Their right to privacy precludes health care providers including parents in a very young woman’s decision to terminate pregnancy. Surely this leaves young women in crisis situations vulnerable to others who may not always have the woman’s best interests at heart.
“Partial birth abortion” is legal in Canada.
It’s grisly nature may be the reason it is not widely practiced. I too witnessed the graphic photos in Scugog last summer. There were several depictions of early abortions and mid term abortions presented to the public. All of these are legal in Canada.
Statistics Canada acknowledges over 100,000 legal abortions annually in this country. The fact that abortion is a difficult choice is surely related to the fact that it involves killing defenceless human life. How could this ever be “easy”?
Chris Gainey
Port Perry
Mayor’s Gala for Arts a huge success
Dear Editor
On behalf of the Scugog Council for the Arts, we wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to the community for its support of the first Mayor’s Gala for the Arts.
The SCA’s goal for this inaugural Gala was to raise some much needed funds, create a memorable event celebrating the arts in Scugog, and recognize outgoing Mayor Marilyn Pearce for her outstanding contribution to the community through the arts.
We are very pleased to have exceeded our financial targets for the evening, with the Gala generating more than $30,000 to benefit our ongoing operations. We could not have reached, let alone surpassed our goals, without the commitment of arts supporters such as you.
With the funds raised, the SCA, through the Scugog Arts Resource Centre, will be able to continue its support of all the arts in Scugog, including visual, literary, musical, dramatic, dance and fine craft.
Scugog is home to one of Canada’s fastest growing arts communities and your support of the Scugog Mayor’s Gala for the Arts ensures that the Scugog Council for the Arts continues to cultivate a creative community for everyone’s benefit.
Next year’s Gala date has been set - Thursday, November 3, 2011 - and we hope you will join our team again for the second Scugog Mayor’s Annual Gala for the Arts. Thank you once again and we look forward to seeing you next year.
Steve Caldwell, Marilyn Youmans
Mayor’s Gala for the Arts Committee
Polar Plunge makes a big splash
The Auxiliary of the Port Perry Hospital would like to thank the plungers, donators, the local media, Scugog Firefighters, town crier Bill McKee, Dave Bell, Coffee Culture, and all the sponsors who donated to this year’s annual Lakeridge Health Port Perry Hospital Auxiliary Polar Plunge.
Proceeds from the popular event raised $9,500 for the Port Perry Hospital Auxiliary, which will be used to purchase equipment for the hospital.
Several special awards were presented. Judy Anderson received a lovely polar bear created by Bill Lishman as the top award for the most money brought in over 4 years. Judy was also one of the top contributors this year.
Vivien Luthy, a first time plunger and an exchange student from Belfort France sponsored by the Rotarians, received a polar bear carved by Lloyd Wakeford for the most money brought in this year.
Tony Kashahub, another four year veteran plunger, received a carved picture of polar bears, carved by Ted Wright, for the next highest contributor this year.
Sincere thanks to all.
Ruth Spearing
Polar Plunge co-ordinator
JANUARY 2011
MoJacks extend wishes to their fans
Dear Editor:
The executive of the Port Perry MoJacks Jr. C. Hockey Club would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year.
We are very fortunate to have such loyal fans supporting us and look forward to your continued support in the coming years.
The MoJacks have been part of the Port Perry hockey scene for more than 38 years and we’ve seen a lot of local talent come through the organization. Many have gone on to further their hockey careers.
Once again, we would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday.
Sincerely
Wayne Stainton
on behalf of the players and executive
of the Port Perry MoJacks Hockey Club
