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January 2013

Cigarettes & Philosophy

When I was ten, I lived beside a park, and a rather ordinary one at that. It had one old, creaky see-saw, a row of six swings, and two metal slides. Hardly enough to captivate interest, but at the time, I found myself going there nearly every day. In the evening, I'd tell my mother I was heading out to play, walk out my back door, pad across the neighbouring green field, and find my way to the benches. There, I'd see the four teenage girls I'd grown to revere. They couldn't have been older than sixteen or seventeen, with dark eye makeup and cherry red nails. Almost every night they were there, laughing, chatting, smoking long menthol cigarettes, and rolling blunts. Whenever I could, I'd sit with them, and though they were little more than strangers, they always obliged. They loved Motown music, and would often break out into spontaneous song, screaming in harmonies as they used the skimpy play equipment as a makeshift stage. An old standby was Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch. They couldn't believe I'd never heard of the Temptations. Mostly though, we just sat there. It was always pretty quiet. Quiet enough for them to smoke in peace, and quiet enough for me to lean back and just listen.

by Leisha Senko Twitter: @leishasenko

Often their conversations would wander into the territory of death, personal loss, pain, and confusion. One choked up remembering a car accident she'd been in with her friend. While driving, she swerved, and ran off the road. She felt like it was her fault that her friend had sustained a sprained wrist and suffered a concussion. For a moment, she trembled, she thought that she might even be dead. She replayed, step by step, the long drive back home, describing the knot in her stomach. At the front door, she said, upon seeing the cruiser, her mother bit into her, screaming, "What did you do?!" thinking that something horrifically wrong must have happened to merit an escort. After hearing the whole story though, she melted, holding her daughter as she cried. Another talked about losing her mother to cancer. There were long pauses, drawn out tears, and a comfortable silence as the others engulfed her with their arms. I remember being shocked in that moment, by the lack of words and yet the overflow of emotion. All of it was brand new to me. Other conversations were decidedly less heavy. They centred around school, or assignments, or parents, or boys. Sometimes, the girls would get into lengthy de-

bates about the best decade of music, or describe at great length their favourite television shows. At the time, most of it went over my head, and yet I was still transfixed. To this day, I can still close my eyes and picture myself on that grass field, flicking away at one of the red lighters the girls would sometimes toss me, as I listened intently. It's a story I happily recount, to the great chagrin of my single, working mother, who would have bolted me inside the house had she any idea what I was up to. And yet, besides the added benefit of making me feel like I could have been a bohemian child, they were moments I came back to later on in my life. Dealing with the loss of a loved one, trudging through high school, and even while listening to The Temptations, their words resonated with me. Their intensely personal stories, each as delicate as tissue paper, were gifted freely. These vulnerable pieces of themselves were left in the hands of a young, naive stranger, such as myself. Sadly, I cannot remember their names. I don't know where they are today; what they do, who they've become, or the things and people they love. But to them I'll be eternally grateful for teaching me what a powerful, jolting experience it is, when we share our personal experiences without expecting anything in return.

Id Say 2012 was Triumphant!

Before I go any further, I must address the fact that if you are reading this, that means we all survived the end of the world! A round of applause to Mother Earth for not self-destructing (like in the movie 2012). It also means we survived the family gatherings, ate heartily, and shared plenty of laughs. I hope you all had a fantastic New Year's too, ringing in a promising 2013. Every time a new year starts, people approach it with different practices. Some start a new gym membership intending to go year-round, yet only last a couple of months. Some attempt to quit smoking, or perhaps cut back on drinking. Some want to book more vacations, while some want to find better jobs. Others carry on like its just another day. Most, myself included, reflect on our past year. On our accomplishments, our failures, where we made improvements, where we wasted our time. We reminisce about the fond memories, and the not-so-great ones, the new friends we made, and possibly, the friends we lost. One thing's for sure, we are our toughest critics. Which means, based on our reflections, we tend to make goals to improve in the areas we think we fall short. Call it what you will: goals, achievements, new perspectives, slight changes, improvements, personal edits, adjustments, mind sets I could go on but each one boils down to being a resolution. Yes, the dreaded New Years Resolutions. However, what does a resolution mean to you? To the majority, Im sure its a phobia or just pure annoyance. And why is that, I wonder? Probably because many people set themselves up for disappointment and individual failure. To me, a New Years Resolution is a pledge, or personal promise to solve some specific shortcoming. Whether you make a giant list of resolutions, or focus on one or two goals, I think its a great idea to strive to become a better self. And it doesnt have to apply only at the beginning of the year; we should make improvements yearlong! If theres one thing Ive learned, we can never change habits or traits about another person, but we can change our own habits and traits. Keep that in mind while making your private pledges; dont let them involve or revolve around another person. You might be asking, how do you go about making a resolution that is attainable? One that wont leave you feeling defeated again? Everyone is different, therefore you need to make it sensible to your own desires and devotions. Your goal also needs to be realistic to your lifes demands. We all have the same time allotted to us in a single day, so carving out time for new projects can always be a challenge. with the warm fuzzies. Other than my previously mentioned Read More plan, I also had a Write More plan. Again, I didnt tackle the writing projects I had wanted to (in addition to contributing to The Advocate and updating my blog). Im not overly distraught about it, but I know now what changes Ill need to carry out this year to make it work. Ive heard of writers attempting to write once a day, but at this point in my life, I know it would be impossible. Instead of setting myself up for imminent failure, Ill strive to write at least once per week. Ideally, multiple times a week would be great, but allotting one decent period to write would be more than satisfactory to me. This next part wasnt a pre-planned ambition. I started the year off single, with intentions to date. The bad news, upon reflection, is that I wasted a great deal of time with a number of douche bags. Looking back on some of those guys, I want to slap myself for even wasting not just time but my hard-earned money and my well-thought efforts on them. Not to be egotistical, but they missed out on an awesome catch: Me. But as I just said, none of them were worth it anyway.

by Markus McDaniel www.schnippits.wordpress.com

hes in for *smirks* If memory serves, last February I cancelled my gym membership, rather than created one. I never went, so it was a waste of money. Plus, I wanted to gain some weight preferably in muscle mass, but chubs was fine too! After a whole year, I can report that I did in fact gain five pounds! Yeah, yeah, big whoop. At least I know my high metabolism is still functional! However, Im going to continue with my anti-weight loss resolution, just to spite the typical, I need to go on a diet, phrase. Financially, I feel like I have gotten myself in a better position than last year, and thats a great feeling! Im chipping away at my student loan and credit debt and, even after the deadly Christmas spending, Im much better off than I was last January. To me, thats huge news! My other big accomplishments of 2012 were, and still are, my involvement with the Brant Advocate and my personal blog. Since my first piece was published last June, Ive been thrilled to continue writing for this ever-growing paper. My friends Paul Smith and Steve Lacelle were the ones to prod me into writing for it, and to them I am thankful. Additionally, I am very thankful to Lucas Duguid for publishing my first-ever article, in official ink! Its always exciting to see your work in the physical realm. Before I joined the Advocate, I was also encouraged to share my freestyle writing in a more public fashion via online. I decided to start my own blog as part of my Write More resolution. I must say, Im proud of its growth and development, both in content and aesthetics. I didnt want to restrict myself on any one topic, so I left my blogs genre undefined in order to address whatever subject matter I felt necessary. Ive also been cultivating another side of the site, where I share music videos and musical talents for people to check out. The blogs faade has been ever changing since day one. Some days I like certain features, other days I feel the need to make numerous tweaks. For now, Im at peace with its appearanceuntil I get whimsical and spice it up again. Overall, 2012 was a pretty successful year for me. I learned a great deal through new experiences; I grew more as a person, apparently; I opened myself to public critique, allowing others to read my work; and I shared many laughs with family and friends. I truly hope that you, too, had an enjoyable year to remember! Heres to another prosperous twelve months! Best wishes for happiness!

"Call it what you will: goals, achievements, new perspectives, slight changes, improvements, personal edits, adjustments, mind sets I could go on but each one boils down to being a resolution. Yes, the dreaded New Years Resolutions."
Personally, I love books. Hardy, physical books. None of that e-book nonsense. I would love to have to my own library of sorts one day, so naturally, I purchase a great deal of books. As a result, I have a lot of novels I need to read. But time seems to escape me and after a full year, I managed to read one book and bits of another. My ambition for 2012 was to simply Read More. To me, reading one book isnt exactly reading more. So for 2013, Im going to clarify my vague objective, and make my new resolution: Read three books this year. This way, I have a manageable goal and if I happen to surpass my three count, well, then thatll just be the icing on the cake! Try making a practical resolution yourself. Give yourself a value to reach, or a set deadline to complete something by. Otherwise, itll end up falling in one of the Three Ps of Excuses: Postponed, Pushed back, or Procrastinated. Believe me, we all do it. As for the rest of my 2012, in some aspects Im overall satisfied with it, and other aspects I wonder how I didnt accomplish certain things. Lets start with the bad aspects first to get them out of the way, and end

Looking back on some of those guys, I want to slap myself for even wasting not just time but my hard-earned money and my well-thought efforts on them. Not to be egotistical, but they missed out on an awesome catch: Me.
Among all the stupidity, I did come out of it knowing more of what I wanted in my special someone. And, to my surprise, I think I mightve found him So thats gotta count for something, right? Im ready to brave this New Year with my new beau, and all the adventures we embark upon! I hope he knows what

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January 2013

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Page 3

The Creators Game

As I watch the clock count down the seconds, my heart is in my throat and my eyes begin to tear the buzzer sounds we did it! The Six Nations Junior B Rebels Lacrosse team are the back to back Founders Cup Canadian Junior B National Champions. The win is bittersweet even though we won in front of our hometown as we were the hosts of the 2012 Founders Cup tournament. Its the first time in the Rebels franchise history that we have hosted this elite tournament. It was our chance to truly show all of Canada what Lacrosse is about. My association with the Rebels lacrosse team began in the summer of 2011 when my family was in the midst of a sad time due to a family tragedy. We had been gathering as a family to support one another through the difficult times. As a result, I began to attend lacrosse games that my cousin, Ian played in. He was a member of the Rebels lacrosse team. I was never a huge fan of watching lacrosse, but it was something I could do with my family and to support my family. I remember going on the lacrosse floor after we had won the semi-final round of the Ontario Lacrosse Assoication playoffs. I gave Ian a hug and told him how proud I was of him and his efforts. He asked me then, Jenny (his pet name for me) if we make it to Founders, are you gonna come and watch me? Without hesitating, I said yes. The annual Founders Cup tournament that year was in Saskatoon. He was shocked that I would do that for him, but family is family and we support one another. The Rebels ended up winning and making it to the tournament, and I ended up in Saskatoon for the Gold Medal game. Ian scored a goal and when he did, he pointed at me. I knew in my heart then, that I had made the right decision. As we celebrated the win, there were a lot of tears. Another bittersweet win, my familys past tragedy was now another familys current tragedy. A former Rebels player and coach, Keegan Hill, had recently passed away and the loss affected our players and fans. There were plenty of happy tears and plenty of sad tears that day, but we did it. We overcame the adversity and won. At the year-end Annual Rebels Lacrosse General Meeting, which was also the annual awards banquet, I was nominated

by Jenn Hill Twitter: @SN_REBELSLAX

it would be we were the hosts for the annual Founders Cup tournament in August 2012! I was thrust into a situation where we had to not only raise enough money to run a Junior B lacrosse team for a season but to also host a National level tournament!

As lacrosse is the Creators game, one that was given to my people as a form of medicine
As lacrosse is the Creators game, one that was given to my people as a form of medicine, I and my fellow Rebels executives were determined to make this the most memorable and unbeatable Founders Cup in history. Thanks to the support and hard work of the executives and vast army of volunteers, we did just that. The Road to the Founders Cup was a long hard road, but we made it. Along the way, my new found Rebels family suffered a major and tragic loss. In the final round of the Ontario playoffs, we lost a player who was the heart and soul of our team, Carney Johnson. He was just 19years-old when he tragically passed away, very suddenly and unexpectedly. Our team was in the midst of playoffs and gearing up to host, and ultimately win the Founders Cup, when the tragic event took place. The grief and sadness that surrounded and consumed our team (players, coaches and executives) was great. I can only imagine how difficult it was for Carneys

immediate family. We pulled together as a team, supported one another and turned to local Faithkeepers to help our boys work through the grief. The sadness and grief is still there today, but the boys held it together and moved forward and every win from that day on, was a win for our fallen brother: #28 Carney Elijah Johnson. the buzzer sounds and the Rebels win, 8-7 over the Akwesasne Indians. The Rebels are a history making team; the second time in franchise history that they have been back-to-back Founders Cup Champions and the first team in Founders Cup history to have won the title five times. It was also the first time in Junior B Lacrosse history that it was an All-Native Final in the playoffs, and in the Founders Cup, which saw the Rebels victorious over the Akwesasne Indians both times. Again I am on the floor searching for #9 Ian Martin. As we find each other and I hug him close and tell him how proud I am of him, the tears begin to fall, bittersweet again. It was then that I realized what the team has given me and the other members of the team it has given us family and pride. The Creator gave us this game as a medicine and its because of this medicine that we have been able to overcome our grief and carry ourselves strong, tall and proud to continue to play for him. We never forget where we came from, or what weve been through and we let it guide us to the futureRebels Proud, Rebels Strong, Rebels Nation. In loving memory of Keegan Hill #8 and Carney Johnson #28. Once a Rebel, Always a Rebel, even those Rebels with wings.

as Treasurer for the team. I asked Ian if he was going to continue playing for the Rebels. He said yes, so I accepted the nomination. I did it for my family. I told Ian that I would continue to help the team as long as he played for them. I soon learned what a huge task

Why Not?
When people decide to start an organization, corporation or business, they usually start by thinking, okay, what do we need to get started? Naturally, theyll start by thinking, well, were gonna need money, supplies, possibly a facility, supporters, advertisements, etc. Charlie and Sue Kopczyk are different. They looked at each other, and Im guessing 1 Corinthians 13:13 popped into their heads: The three most important things to have are faith, hope and love, but the greatest of these is love. They understand that if their mission is to build, they have to start with a solid foundation. They looked at the city of Brantford, which seemed hopeless at the time, and they had faith that they would be able to make a difference through the power of love. When I first walked into Why Not, I was a little rough around the edges, or you could say I was a complete mess. My life was incredibly unstable and my mind reflected it well. I was rude, arrogant, outspoken and violent. I was in and out of juvie for assaults and breaching many probation orders. I bounced around from couch to foster home, from shelter to party house. I was pissed off at the world and everyone in it. Everywhere I went I was either being judged, diagnosed or accused of something everywhere except Why Not. No matter what I looked like, smelled like or sounded like, they were always there providing me what I needed, and not always what I wanted. When I was thirteen and fourteen, life was pretty much a game to me, kind of like Grand Theft Auto. I was always getting into trouble, but I saw Why Not around and occasionally popped in for hotdogs or pizza. When I was fifteen, my cousin Sarah moved across the street in those buildings they tore down a little while ago. It was always convenient for me to use Why Nots phone to call Sarah and tell her to get her butt downstairs. We always loved going there for

by Krystal Froman

these amazing gourmet super cheap breakfasts that we could never afford. They were always willing to feed us, be there for us and hook us up with stuff whenever we needed it. No obligation, no pressure, no judgement, I always respected that. They made me feel accepted and cared for. This brought me hope.

Bible each time I would go in. The problem didnt really go away, but the struggle got easier because I was learning how to cope. When I was eighteen, I got my own apartment. I was working two jobs, going to school and developing faith. Amy and Trevor Beecraft, managers at Why Not, offered to take me to Mexico with them for a mission trip. We went to the slums and provided a family with basic needs like, School supplies, food, etc. We went to a skate park and I told my testimony in church there and in a youth prison. Saying the trip was amazing would be an understatement. However, I was battling some of my own demons out there and I feel like Amy and Trevor took the brunt of it. They still displayed hope and faith in me. They still showed me nothing but love. Words could not express my gratitude.

Id even call them street fighters, cause theyre out on the street fighting the hardest battles. Theyre fighting the battles that everyone else is losing! Theyre fighting hatred, anger, depression and addiction. Theyre fighting poverty, discrimination and suicide. Theyre fighting for the lost, the hopeless, the neglected and abused. Who would have thought the crazy happy Christians, across the street handing out hotdogs, would be the ones who possessed the qualities I was looking for all along? Theyre real, theyre honest, and theyre compassionate, determined and persistent. Theyre loving, caring and friendly, and they always had my back without me even realizing it! Heck, theyre hardcore! These people have experienced loss, pain, hurt and struggle. They have sacrificed their lives for people like me. For anyone who is willing to reach out their hand and accept their generosity. Theyre saving lives people! Honestly, I would probably be dead if it wasnt for them. Why Not represents the way we should treat each other and the way things ought to be. I remember riding the waves with Amy, when I asked her, whats love anyway? You know what she said? 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7. Love is patient, love is kind, it does not want what belongs to others, it is not proud, it is not rude, it doesnt look out for its own interests, It does not easily become angered, it does not keep track of other peoples wrongs. Love is not happy with evil, but is full of joy when the truth is spoken. It always protects. It always trusts. It always hopes. It never gives up. Love never fails. What does Why Not mean to me? Why Not City Missions is a rare group of positive role models, selfless individuals, redeemed souls who earnestly seek to bless the lives of anyone and everyone they come in contact with. A beacon of hope built on a solid foundation. Ladies and Gentlemen, THIS is how you change the world.

"So for months, Id show up every Sunday, late, still in my party clothes, reeking like booze and cigarettes, usually sporting my wounds from the night before."
One day, Sarah suggested that we check out one of their church services. I thought it was a great idea. We both woke up on the couch of the party house we crashed at the night before, on Sunday morning and we made our way down to Why Not, also known as the downtown java back then. We came in late, smelling like cheap liquor and cigarettes. They welcomed us with open arms. Simply put, I was blown away by the message and decided to make a habit of it. So for months, Id show up every Sunday, late, still in my party clothes, reeking like booze and cigarettes, usually sporting my wounds from the night before. They still didnt judge me. Amy took me under her wing and taught me some of the most valuable of life lessons. Gradually, life became a little less dark. I was still in and out of jail, but Id pick up the

"When I think about it, theyre the toughest people I have ever met. Heck, Id even call them street fighters, cause theyre out on the street fighting the hardest battles."
You see, growing up, I looked up to the drug dealers, the thieves, the gangsters, like they were the ones who had it figured out. I had a ton of people telling me they loved me but no one showed me love like Why Not did. Its all walk and barely any talk with them. They lead by example. When I think about it, theyre the toughest people I have ever met. Heck,

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January 2013

Conversations, Waterfronts and that Sign on your Lawn

I was speaking with Mary Lou Knechtel back in the spring and she reminded me of our water challenge in the northwest part of Brantford near the Northwest walking bridge. As our city inevitably grows, land is needed for building new homes and businesses. One area prime for development is in the northwest, along Hardy Road. Three projects, totaling over 1,000 new homes, are planned by developers and await the outcome of Ontario Municipal Board hearings before ground gets moved and building begins. Lou is involved with a group called The Hardy Road Area Citizens Committee (THRACC) and asked me if Id put up a lawn sign that reads: NO DEVELOPMENT IN THE HARDY ROAD AREA! PROTECT OUR SOURCE WATER AND ENVIRONMENT. VISIT www.thracc.com Despite thinking that no development was unreasonable, I do think we have to protect our source water so I said Of course!. The sign sat beside the garage for a couple of weeks before my wife told me that she had seen the same sign at a friends house on Tollgate and ours went up that afternoon. About three weeks later, a neighbor four doors down knocked on the door asking where he could get one too. I dont get involved in politics but this is important, he told me. A lifelong resident of Brantford, Graham uses the trails with his young family. When I asked him what made it important, he said that, to him, water quality was one aspect of a healthy community. In Brantfords case, we draw water from the Grand River at Wilkes Dam. It is treated in a world-class facility before coming out our taps. When it goes down the drain in our homes, it goes to another city facility before being returned to the Grand where it makes it way down river to Lake Erie. Grahams family also uses a Reverse Osmosis system to further clean their water. While recognizing that development has to happen, he talked about how cities have grown so far and the lessons we should have learned. Planners should have a better idea today than 2030 years ago, of the impact of altering an ecosystem that helps filter water. Altering it, seems to him, was a step backwards. He mentioned talking to his oldest son, now 7, about knowing what things you can change, changing what you can and where you can help. We chatted a few more minutes before he left me with the parting thought that the government should own land that has a significant impact on its community. Does this area have significant impact on its community? The area is home to lots of wildlife as well as various endangered plant and animal species. There is also a cold water spawning creek for trout, natural water spouts and a perched fen. It turns out that the Prairie Fen here is the only example of its kind in Ontario. Perched Fens, or hillside wetlands, are made up of wet prairie sedges, grasses and shrubs which helps to create an ecosystem all its own. Im told there is a 13,000-year-old limestone formation called a tufa mound there too. The Ministry of Natural Resources has designated it as an area of natural and scientific interest. The ancient Mohawk archaeological site known as Davisville is here as well. A couple of weeks after Grahams sign went up, I noticed three more signs had arrived up the street. The first sign belongs to John who has lived in Brantford since 1966. Retired, John walks and rides the trails regularly. He saw the two signs down the street and asked Graham, who he worked with in Cainsville, where to get one. John was born and raised on a farm which helped him understand the importance of water quality. I thought later that, like the planners Graham talked of, farmers may have a stronger understanding of the impact altering land because their livelihood depends on it. John thinks the trail area is nice and wants it kept. Hes not sure what impact a lawn sign has or if it will affect the ultimate decision but he still made the effort not only to get a sign but he ordered an extra for his next door neighbors knowing they would put one up without a thought.

by Stan Gorecki Facebook: Stan Gorecki

dropped off. There was an extra sign and it was quickly put up on her lawn. Although shes a farm girl, it wasnt until she heard Sheila Smith speak to a group in Cathcart about water quality that she really began to appreciate how import water is and how easy it is to contaminate it is. Its very important, she told me. We drink it! New to the city and a regular trail user, Linda had always been on well water. She told me that you can get a positive test from a well and within two weeks find the same well contaminated. People dont know enough about water. You turn on a tap and there it is. We talked about how many people, especially urbanites (city folk), who think food and bottled water is made in the back of a grocery store. Lindas son works for a water treatment facility and Linda has fullest confidence in municipal water. After speaking with these folks, I called Lou. She told me her involvement in this actually began in 1996. That was the year logging began down the road she and her family live on. She became concerned about how the forest was being logged especially around ravines and in the valley. She spoke with the GRCA and County who agreed improvements were needed to the by-laws and, after reviewing lessons learned since last by-laws were written, changes were made. While doing this, she came across Ilse Kraemer who was researching an area, near the Grand River northwest of the city, known as Davisville which is owned by Sifton Properties. With her experience from logging and by-laws, Lou agreed to help Ilse identify features that made the area unique. The real issue is about Brantfords Waterfront Master Plan and the publics right to waterfront access. After two years of public consultation the City, with a consulting, firm created an award-winning plan for the lands along the Grand River within the City of Brantford. On June 28, 2010, City Council approved the Waterfront Master Plan in principle. The plan addresses many issues including: environmental Issues, River/Tributary Recreational Access and Use, Development Analysis, Land Use Analysis, and Tourism Opportunities. The next step is to fine tune it and then have it put into the Citys Official Plan. Right now, in Brantford, the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) is hearing arguments from three development companies as to why they should be allowed to proceed with development of over 1,000 new homes. Lou told me her concern is that the City will be saddled with liability concerns of flooded residential basements and unprotected source groundwater after the proponents are long gone from our community. Building in any area is not wise with insufficient scientific evidence regarding upwelling ground water, as geo-scientist Daryl Cowell has shown at the hearings. Sifton monitoring wells have not given enough information regarding possible flooding here and the effect on source groundwater. Since writing this, three more signs have popped up in our neighbourhood, reminding me that, however small, each of our actions can make a difference. To order your sign, e-mail: thracc@gmail.com.
On November 29, 2012 we got a decision from the Ontario Court of Appeal in the Cornie and related cases. These cases were important because they addressed the question of how long persons injured in motor vehicle collisions being denied treatment by their own insurer had to wait for a mediation date with the Financial Services Commission of Ontario. The legislation expressly contemplated that the Financial Services Commission of Ontario would conduct a telephone mediation within 60 days of receiving the application for mediation from the claimant. This would allow disputes between claimants and their insurers ideally to be resolved without the involvement of lawyers and prolonged litigation. This would allow disputes to be resolved quickly so that claimants could access treatment within a reasonable period of time following the motor vehicle collision which would be beneficial in terms of making an optimal recovery. Unfortunately a significant back log developed which resulted in claimants having to wait in excess of 18 months for a mediation date. The legislation seemed to permit claimants to issue court actions or file applications for arbitration after 60 days on the basis the mediation application had failed. The insurers resisted the actions and brought motions saying they should be stayed on the basis they were issued prior to the parties participating in a mediation. The Financial Services Commission of Ontario adopted a similar interpretation of their governing statute and refused to accept applications for arbitration on matters where no mediations had been conducted. Clearly this was creating a significant hardship for persons injured in motor vehicle collisions. The Ontario Court of Appeal agreed with the Plaintiffs and found that as long as they waited 60 days after filing their application for mediation with the Financial Services Commission of Ontario that they could opt to issue a statement of claim or file an application for arbitration with the Financial Services Commission of Ontario upon the expiry of the 60 day period if FSCO had not conducted the mediation. This is an important decision for persons injured in motor vehicle collisions as it confirms that the purpose of the Act is to protect the rights of consumers. The Insurance Act is primarily consumer protection legislation. As a result of these actions FSCO has increased its resources to reduce the backlog. While the insurers are complaining that the additional costs associated with litigating these claims could cost them as much as $300 million which they will have to pass onto consumers it is more likely that the overall efficiency of the system will be improved and this will be beneficial to both the insurers and the claimants. Our first year Create a Christmas toy drive in support of the Salvation Army was a huge success. We received over 700 gifts donated for needy children in our communities. A special thank you to Sarah Hall of our office for organizing this effort on our firms behalf. A very special thanks to Brian Vollmer and Helix for supporting our effort with the Helix Heavy Mental Christmas Show. We filled our boardroom gifts for the last month. Inset picture** Sarah Hall and Brian Vollmer packing up for the Salvation Army. Many thanks to all of you who supported and for those who were able to make it out to the Christmas Concert we hope you enjoyed and will be back again next year where we promise to make it even bigger and better! As always I can be reached anytime at the email address below with any questions or inquiries you may have. Wishing you all the very best for 2013.

The real issue is about Brantfords Waterfront Master Plan and the publics right to waterfront access.
As John said, Gerry and Kathy took a sign without a thought. It turns out Lou had stopped in to see them earlier and they had agreed to take a sign already as John knew they would. My conversation with Gerry took a different turn. Apathy, said Gerry, when we talked about why people in general didnt get involved in things. Unless asked, they dont ask and let life go right by them. Were too busy with work, many times in another city, and other things. Its an on-going challenge. People go in the house and close the door. To Gerry this is about a bigger issue, urban sprawl. This isnt the 50s or 60s when urban sprawl took over. The days of urban sprawl should be curtailed. We need other ways to build. He went on to talk about McMansions and the short-sighted desires of people when it comes to urban planning. I thought about Grahams planners and governments responsibility to the community as a whole. Like Grahams family and John, Gerry and Kathy enjoy the trails. The domino effect when we start cutting down trees is huge. We destroy nature and then build a park as if that will properly replace what has been destroyed. I believe we are long term stewards of the land while developers see only immediate dollars in someone elses community. I waited for him to say carpet-baggers but he didnt. Across the street from John, Gerry and Kathy lives Linda, who moved here from Burford in November 2011. She was working on her lawn when the other signs were being

Not For Profit Dilemma

Brantfords not-for-profit industry will be facing many key challenges over the next few years as they compete for dollars and volunteer time. Whether social, cultural or spiritual in their focus, they share common problems of raising funds, declining government support, rising costs and fewer dollars to support an ever increasing number of worthy causes. I dont know whether its just me but I have found that fundraising approaches from not-for-profit organizations were unusually high in December. Within a two week period, we received over sixteen telephone calls, four letters and three e-mails from organizations seeking support for worthy causes. I suspect that, in the coming years, there is going to be even greater pressure from the not-for-profit sector seeking support for a diversity of funding requirements and volunteer support to support their agendas. While the desire to meet community needs is commendable, the reality is that there are only so many dollars available whether the source is government, corporations or individuals. A recent report from the Deloitte not-for-profit Group examined the state of the not-for-profit industry in Australia, which is not dissimilar to Canada. Declining government funding and increasing costs associated with regulatory and compliance requirements are factors affecting the industry here in Ontario. The negative impact of fundraising for notfor-profits due to the global economic challenges is also a factor affecting local not-for-profits and certainly one cannot discount the impact of global catastrophes that draw dollars from every local community. At the same time, for agencies providing client services, demand is on the increase as a result of the economic downturn. Service delivery is further impacted by a shortage of skilled staff in the sector and increasing wage demands. Deloittes study examined institutionalized not-for-profits like, for example, the Cancer Society and the Heart and Stroke Foundation, as well as community-based organizations. Government accounted for 43% of the funds raised, 36% from commercial activity, 15% from public campaigns, and 5% from the corporate sector. Interestingly, 45% relied on annual campaigns to raise funds, 40% utilized direct mail, 37% used major events such as charity auctions, and only 12% relied on call centers or door-todoor campaigns. On the cost side, they generally spent between 11-15% of their revenue on fundraising. When asked what their priorities would be for the coming year, not surprisingly, the respondents said that raising more money and reducing operating costs were major priorities. A study in Britain that examined fundraising challenges found that there was overdependence in targeting the elderly population, those between 70 and 80 which made up 11.8% of the population because they match the Dorothy Donor profile. They also found that people under 40 tended to support specific causes, particularly if they were accessed with the right technology. The study noted that there was a decline in legacy donations, donor fatigue, declining corporate support, and a tendency to provide support based on impulse, not a lasting relationship, particularly among the under-40 group. Although there is some tax advantage to assisting not-for-profits, the dollar value of the contribution has to be fairly high to gain meaning tax benefit, though it all helps. The problem is that in difficult economic times and unemployment of 8.2% in Brant, it is difficult for many to find the cash needed to make that contribution. There is an active community out fundraising here in Brantford, and that extends beyond the call centers. There are hundreds of local volunteers out raising money for not-forprofits. The United Way and Catholic Charities are a great way to consolidate assistance and ensure that a diversity of causes get support, though the demand for assistance is clearly exceeding the supply of capital. Moreover, many organizations do not fall under their corporate umbrella. One can also look at the Brant Community Foundation which assists many not-for-profits with project specific financing. Unfortunately, most grant financing does not cover operating costs and, in fact, requires that the beneficiary provide proportional financing in support of the project. Service organizations such as the Rotary Club, Knights of Columbus, and Optimists Club all help by running pro-

by Stan Gorecki Facebook: Stan Gorecki

grams to raise money for a variety of projects. Friends of the not-for-profits may run auctions, bingos, draws, and walk-a-thons. Corporations such as Tim Hortons, Shoppers Drug Mart, or Metro Foods may use their retail power to raise funds for specific projects. Having said all this, the reality is we have only so many dollars to give and limited hours available to work on projects. In speaking to a few of my friends who are adept at raising funds for charities, most agree that fundraising is not about raising money, but it is about raising friends. People want to know that their dollars will be well managed and achieve intended results. They want a relationship and want to be informed, though not bombarded. They also explained that it takes time, planning and effort to achieve the desired results, and it requires donor maintenance to sustain those results. What this suggests to me is that financial support is likely to become more focused and more targeted. So those not-for-profits with the best track record, best management practices, most sophisticated donor support program, and a clear sense of community are likely to be the most successful at raising funds and attracting volunteers. Unfortunately, this may be at the peril of those who are not. The adage that there is enough to go around is no longer true. We should be preparing ourselves for the fact that some not-for-profits may not be able to sustain operations. The reality may be that it is better to have fewer but stronger not-for-profits than to have many that are continuously struggling. I dont know. Certainly those that are struggling are hopefully filling a need. If that service disappears, will it be absorbed elsewhere? What will happen to the committed volunteers who support these causes? Is there a better paradigm or model that we can use help those that continuously struggle? Should funding organizations be shifting their model from project financing to operational assistance? Does the tax system needed to reform to incent people to increase not-for-profit contributions? These questions will be a matter for debate. That debate is not far off.

A Voice for the Students of Laurier Brantford

A Misunderstanding of Autism
I flick on the television, sit down, and enjoy two of the most popular sitcoms in todays media- NBCs Community and CBSs Big Bang Theory. Both these shows have something common in regards to the generally agreed upon favourite characters. Both Communitys Abed Nadir, played by Danny Pudi, and Big Bang Theorys Sheldon Cooper, portrayed by Jim Parsons, have traits commonly associated with Aspergers syndrome, a Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) that fits under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). But personally, as much as I love both Abed and Sheldon, I feel that these two socially awkward, loveable characters perpetuate myths about autism that we should have outgrown by now. Myth One- Everyone with autism has a savant skill. Rain Man is a cinema classic. In it, we see Dustin Hoffman playing Raymond Babbitt; a savant with the ability of eidetic (or photographic) memory. This sparked a myth around those diagnosed with autism that all autistics have a savant skill. Be it an artistic genius, a musical brilliance, or being a card counting virtuoso. Yet, this is not true. Im sorry to say it, but I know a lot of people diagnosed with autism, and not one has a savant skill. On this one, the media is not an accurate source of information; youve heard it before, and Im stressing it again. Myth Two- Everyone with autism is the same. One you may not hear often, unless you have ties to the Autism community (then youll probably hear this assumed or insinuated a lot) is that everyone with autism is the same. The thing is, like every single person in the world, we are all different. That doesnt change whether youre diagnosed with autism or not. The autism spectrum covers a vast range of cognitive ability, and not only that, but the interests one has, emotions one feels, or attitudes one may express, are not based on the diagnosis you are given. These interests, emotions, and attitudes are what make you, you. Whether or not you have been stamped autistic or not, everyone is a unique individual. Myth Three- People with autism cant talk. Although this is true in some cases, its not true in all. The range of abilities and skills between those with autism is vast. This includes verbal development. Some children, and some adults with autism, can be greatly developed in language skills, whereas others have no use of speech whatsoever. This is explained in greater detail over several scientific journals and as well as over the Internet. Myth Four- People with autism cant understand you. Youre not being ignored; what you say is not going over the heads of those youre speaking to, or speaking about. You should watch what you say if youre talking about someone. You may not be granted a response (verbally) but that doesnt mean youre not being understood. When one takes the time to get to know someone with

by Cody Groat Twitter: @Sputnik_News

autism, theyll start to realize that someone diagnosed (whos non-verbal) may express feelings in other ways. For example, the way they move, or the way they act can signify what theyre feeling. If you see someone with any disability, just know that its not acceptable to criticize. Every insult you say is being understood. Myth Five- Autism has a cure. In the eyes of some people, this is a rather unfortunate myth. But, with my job as an Autism Support Worker Ive come to learn one valuable lesson, autism may not have a cure, but thats because its not a disease, or an illness. Autism is just another aspect of whoever is diagnosed. Its a part of them, just like their brown hair, or their big smile. In my opinion, finding a cure is like the old adage why fix something thats not broken? So no, autism doesnt have a cure. Not everyone with autism has a savant skill, nor is everyone with autism the same. Many people with autism can talk, and remember they can all understand you.

The Battle of Downtown Parking

It seems that the game of musical chairs is one that is played quite frequently in Brantfords downtown core; except in this version, students are consistently moving their cars from parking space to parking space and the cost of losing is a ticket. Although commuting students have their fair share of complaints about the citys lack of parking spaces available to them, and the very limited amount of time allotted per space, the options available to them are very much present, and the concerns do not go without any attention to it. With the growth and development each year at Laurier Brantford, the main concern of students is the limited amount of parking, and what will be done to help this problem. While there are around 950 spots available for $45 a month at the Market Centre parking plaza, there seems to be a lack of use for these spots. Victoria Readings, a third-year Criminology student commuting from Brant County says, I dont pay for parking because I dont feel safe in the Market Centre parking lot, therefore paying for a spot in there is useless if not ridiculous. People have their cars keyed, broken into, and damaged in the parkade all the time. The lighting is terrible, and the security is scarce. Readings continued to explain, Even student permit parking lots are inadequate. There are very few spots and even when you pay for a permit you often cannot get a spot. Third-year Concurrent-Education student Amanda Censner said she had experienced getting a parking ticket in her first year while she was in class. The ticket cost is $20 and her usual parking spot, which was Laurier parking only, had been taken, forcing her to use the street parking. The Laurier parking allowed for students only is very limited, and at a first come, first serve basis. Censner says that her main concern with Brantford parking is, It is always so difficult to find a spot, and you usually have limited time to stay in that spot. This makes it difficult for when students have back-to-back classes because you always have to be concerned about moving your car and not getting a parking ticket. Students already pay the high cost of tuition, so the extra costs of ticketing should not have to be a worry, according to Censner. Although the students of Laurier Brantford have no doubt raised the downtown core of Brantford up, the parking for businesses located downtown must also remain and also be kept in mind. Transportation Technologist Robert Smith commented on how the students felt about the lack of transportation, Theres plenty of parking in the Market Centre parkade, its just that students dont want to pay for parking. When asked about the safety concerns of the parkade, he said, Its a valid concern, but whether one feels safe or not is objective, there are safety guards, safety cameras, and in regards to the lighting, it is being looked into and improved. Smith continued to say that the street parking is not intended for students, but rather for the people going about their days, and that is why there is so little time allotted for each spot. In regards to the growth of Laurier Brantfords student body, Smith says that there are plans for another parking garage adjacent to the transit terminal that will be combined with it. Heather Bouillon, Financial Coordinator at Laurier Brantford, feels there is sufficient parking to meet the students needs. This past year, we formed a Laurier Brantford Parking Advisory Committee, including two student representatives to look at how better to serve our customers. From this committee, came key changes, such as certain lots that are now exclusively for the use of students during the academic year. Bouillon also commented on the parking allotted to students only saying, Of those that were successful in the lottery for on-campus parking, almost a quarter did not come in to pick up their permit. We will be surveying those who did not pick up their permit, which should

by Melissa McGuffin Twitter: @Sputnik_News

provide some insight into why students opted out of campus parking. Bouillon also suggested the use of carpooling and buses to cut the cost of parking and get rid of the chance of parking tickets. Although the concern of parking when it comes to students is valid, there are ways students can cope with it. The use of Foot Patrol can be used to walk to the Market Centre parkade if one feels unsafe in doing so, and any safety concerns can be discussed with the Special Constables. The future of student parking in Brantfords downtown is hopeful. Censner feels the same way, I can already see a change as Laurier is making more parking available for students. If there are more spots available, it will make it less stressful for students who are commuting and are trying to get to class on time. So as long as they keep expanding the parking, it should make it easier for students who are driving to school. To the students shuffling from parking spot to parking spot, make your voices heard by complaining to the school, and help solve the problem. Musical chairs was fun in grade school, but its not fun to play with cars and tickets.

YOBO - You Only Brantford Once

Now that Im entering my final year here at Laurier Brantford, I am fraught with the debilitating anxiety brought on by the fact that I am slowly, reluctantly, coming to terms with the fact that not only will I be leaving this wonderful institution, but in addition to that, I will have to face the looming OSAP payments that wait for me in the darkness of my somewhat uncertain future. Wow, that got dark really fast. Suffice to say Im not ready to leave! Why should I be? This place has been my home for the past three years, and now I find myself facing a blistering reality that I will never again end a beautiful summer day with a battle-royale against a lagging, uncooperative, overburdened LORIS for a class that I was so certain would be a bird course, but actually turned out to be the exact opposite. On second thought, probably not that last bit. So why am I writing this? Surely, The Sputnik wouldnt endorse the self-indulgent ramblings of a slightly neurotic fourth-year student. Lets skip past the melodramatics, bypass the filter and arrive at the point; make the most of your time here, or else risk graduating with simply a degree with a barren Co-Curricular Record, and no memories nor tales of late night Lonnies runs, going to concerts at The Mixdown or awkward moments at NV. If youre reading this and you plan on sticking around for the next few years, I suggest you do one or more or all of the following. In no particular order, Laurier Brantford, I present to you the most important tidbits of advice one could give in order to make the most of your time here at Laurier Brantford. Get involved Never underestimate the things you can learn from getting involved around campus. The call from student leadership here is as great as it is never-ending. Although fall hiring may be closed for WLUSU and Student Affairs, WLUSP could use some great writers. You can always join a campus club, and if you dont like any of the clubs available, you can always make your own. Why get involved? Well, not only can you put these things on your CCR, youll be networking, making friends, and doing something that you enjoy. While the academic rigor of your studies may provide you with joy, you still need to take a break and devote yourself to something remotely recreational. Dont Procrastinate When I first wrote this, a Boromir meme that read One does not simply stop procrastinating came to mind. Its important. The reason you hate writing essays is because next to your JSTOR tabs you have Facebook, Twitter, Iwastesomuchtime, and quite possibly Thi-

by Carla Egesi @mynameiscarlae

siswhyimbroke, in the very same window waiting to elicit your productivity downfall. Or the reason you failed to submit that paper into the dropbox on MyLearningSpace may have something to do with the fact that a night stumbling home from NV while gorged on the decadent treats afforded to you by Admirals won out over actually doing your homework. Resist the urge, my friends. NV and Admirals will always be there, but remember your GPA is in a state of constant flux (depending on the kind of student you are). I suppose what Im trying to say in both cases is: find balance in your life. You only get one shot at this undergrad. When you look back, make sure that its replete with awesome memories, while at the same time; ensure you actually get your degree. Make the most out of it, and seize that carp, Laurier Brantford.

Li ghti ngB l i nd s Wa l l p a p erD ra p ery Pa i nt 4 0 5 S t. Pa ul Av enue, B ra ntford .

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January 2013

Confessions of a Knocked up Jesus Geek

To start with, you all must know that I am a Jesus geek Christian, if you prefer, but rather obsessed with God, Jesus, church, and all that goes with it. Normally this is all fine and dandy, but when I found out I was pregnant about six months ago, it really complicated my situation. As most of you know, unmarried Christians arent supposed to get pregnant, because theyre not supposed to be getting into situations in which they could get pregnant. Having grown up in the church community, I couldnt exactly claim that I missed the memo. I knew. Even if I werent a Jesus geek, my pregnancy would on most counts be considered inconvenient. As urine tests, blood work, and ultrasounds confirmed that I was, in fact, all knocked up, I watched my plans for the next few years quickly become unrealistic. Paying off my school debt within a year, doing ministry training in Thailand, going on a road trip through South America, having a secure relationship before starting a family, having a stable home, all of it dissolved. Then came the fear. How would I be able to emotionally and financially survive as a single mom, even with the support of my exboyfriend? How could I tell my family this news that could break their hearts? What would this mean for the leadership roles I was holding in numerous Christian organizations? What kind of repercussions was I going to face from my church? Could I still be me, even if the world would know I hadnt lived up to the standards set in place by my faith? Despite my pro-life stance, I definitely considered abortion. I know Christian girls who have gone that route because of similar fears, even though in other circumstances they would have gladly continued their pregnancies. Absorbing all the consequences in secret, they considered that a better option than becoming shamed outcasts of their family and church communities. Dealing with extramarital pregnancies is something the church in general is still working on. For me, in the moment I caught myself saying goodnight to the little person with whom I was sharing my body, I realized that this was actually happening and that I wanted to face motherhood, even if all of my fears could turn out to be warranted. It took awhile to sort through things internally and deal with technical details before I was even ready to tell my family. sented with sadness and accepted with surprise. After completing the most awkward conversations of my life, I was shocked at what I felt next, anger and gratitude all mixed together. I was completely livid at numerous different people in my life for not understanding, for not being there for me, or for having different reactions than I had envisioned. At the same time, I was embraced with acceptance, love, forgiveness, and generosity from nearly everyone I told eventually. Then came the consequences. Having the obligation to work as many hours as possible in order to qualify for employment insurance, meant that I no longer had a life. Combined with my incessant need to sleep and eat, I really didnt have time to spend with friends and family, meaning that a number of my relationships started to become more and more distant, just as I had feared they would. There was a stretch of a few weeks when my life involved little other than biking to and from my two jobs and catching as many consecutive hours of sleep as I could on my bedroom floor, since my creaky loft bed was too hot in the summer, as well as too far from the washroom now that my visits there had increased. While working literally any hour of the day, and sometimes for 24 hours or more on end amidst a battle against pregnancy exhaustion, I fought hard to come to terms with my new reality and all that I was facing. Some of the consequences of my pregnancy were awful. Knowing how badly I had hurt my family made it difficult to picture a happy future. Plus, the trust I had broken at my church meant that some of my roles were discontinued. The worst was losing the right to keep running and attending the young womens support group I had founded and run for the last year. My heart was broken. When I began blogging about my story, I received some of the greatest encouragement ever. Comments and messages filled with hope, greatly strengthened the conviction I had embraced to see God do great things through my story, in my life, and for my child. People who I hardly knew took

by Becca Vandekemp Twitter: @BeccaVDK

the time to share beautiful words with me, including personal stories, advice, and even offers of baby items, a car, money, and places to live. Never in my life had I ever felt such community. As more challenges arose, including the loss of one of my jobs and gradually decreasing mobility, my faith in a forgiving God and the love of these people made me feel stronger than ever before. Frustration still had a place in my life, but the idea that my life would still be awesome took a deep root. One magical day when I felt my baby move for the first time, I started to fall in love with my child. Talking to him, dancing with him, washing and folding his tiny little clothes, is all rather incredible. I wonder if this is the definition of intimacy? Pregnancy itself has all sorts of quirks and oddities, but I find them rather fun most of the time. So what if it has led me to throw up in dozens of strange places, caused me to pee myself upon coughing too much, and limited the kinds of food I can eat? I dont even mind that sometimes when I stand up, my legs are asleep and I have to waddle while crouched for the first few seconds. All the aches in my ribs are worth the sight of tiny feet pushing out from inside my belly. As I write this, Ive got about a month (give or take) of being pregnant left. Then Ill get to meet the tiny person who has already changed my life forever. Im going to love the crap out of my little boy, and, even though life already has no resemblance to the idealistic plans I had laid out, its fine. I even choose to believe that itll be wonderful. Yup, this chick is pregnant as can be, busting at the seams with evidence of fertility. Sometimes life brings surprises that take a lot of patience to endure, but man, will they ever enrich our stories in the end! Oh, life is a jolly time.

I was shocked at what I felt next, anger and gratitude all mixed together. I was completely livid at numerous different people in my life for not understanding, for not being there for me, or for having different reactions than I had envisioned.
So, with extremely mixed feelings about my Dutch familys reactions, I gave them the truth. And then I gave more family the truth. And then I told my church, friends, and others who had the right to know. Conversations that in other cases would have been full of celebration were pre-

The Vulnerable Self

A writer that has had a profound influence on my life is Henri Nouwen. Nouwen was a Roman Catholic priest who had a successful career teaching at Notre Dame, Yale and finally Harvard. Nouwen would leave Harvard to become the pastor of a LArche community in Richmond Hill called Daybreak. LArche is an international network of communities founded by Jean Vanier where people with developmental disabilities live in a community with their assistants. Arriving at Daybreak, Nouwen was welcomed into one of the LArche homes and was asked to help Adam Arnett, a severely disabled man, with his morning routine. The time spent at LArche and his relationship with Adam would have a profound effect on Nouwen and his writings. One of my perennial reads is his book, In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership. I picked up the book the other day and began to look over all my scribbles and highlighter marks, I paused on page 17, where Nouwen writes: I am deeply convinced that the Christian leader of the future is called to be completely irrelevant and to stand in this world with nothing to offer but his or her own vulnerable self. I was struck by this statement, especially in an age where the church is seen as irrelevant, and where church leaders are continually trying to re-engage society in meaningful and relevant ways. Nouwens comment is prefaced by the insight that when he came to LArche the communities welcome had absolutely nothing to do with his past achievements and skills. He writes, These broken, wounded, and completely unpretentious people forced me to let go of my relevant self the self that can do things, show things, prove things, build things and forced me to reclaim that unadorned self in which I am completely vulnerable, open to receive

by Rev. Jon Massimi Twitter: @RevMass

and give love regardless of my accomplishments. The truth is that in our current context, many of our relationships are based on the benefit or value the other brings to us. In other words, what does that person have that can be of use to me? If a person is of no worth to us we are reluctant to enter into a relationship with them. Or if a relationship no longer yields what we need, we move on to one that does. At LArche Nouwen found himself in an unsettling place in that the relationships being formed were not based on his perceived worth. He was simply accepted for his own sake. In turn, Nouwen was called to accept those he lived with, many of which had limited competencies and provided no immediate benefit, in the same way. I believe Nouwens statement that leaders are called to be irrelevant is a plea for the Church and its leadership (a plea I would like to extend to non-Church members) to stand in solidarity with the poor, or those who lack what our society values. As leaders inside and outside the church, by enter-

ing into relationships not built on our skill sets or accomplishments, the currency by which we sell ourselves to the other, we allow our vulnerable selves to show. In doing this, we invite others who may not have the same abilities or accolades into a vulnerable communion where one is appreciated simply for who they are, not bound to societal assessments of worth. I believe that the vulnerability which Nouwen is calling us to is an important ingredient for those who wish to create safe, welcoming and inclusive spaces where true connections and relationships can flourish; which are not reliant upon peoples capabilities, income bracket, skill set, accomplishments etcetera. In turn, when all these adornments are stripped away the humanity of our fellow human beings are made visible to us, enabling us to welcome one another as brothers and sisters, a common people.

The Eliminate Project

A PREVENTABLE TRAGEDY In Sierra Leone, 19-year-old Memunata gives birth to a healthy baby girl. But this joyous event has taken place on the floor of her home. And Memunatas childbirth has been assisted by a traditional but unskilled birth attendant. In fact, Memunata herself hasnt been fully immunized against tetanus. The umbilical cord is cut with an unclean blade. Deadly tetanus spores, found in soil everywhere, infect the cord. Within days, tetanus has spread throughout the babys body, causing muscle rigidity, leading to locked jaw, arched spine, convulsions and difficult breathing. The slightest sound, light, or touch triggers painful spasmsrobbing Memunata of the chance to provide even the comfort of a mothers embrace. After a few days, the baby dies. Memunata is helpless. All she can do is watch. In recent years, Kiwanis International and UNICEF joined forces to tackle iodine deficiency disorders, achieving one of the most significant public health successes of the 20th Century. Now, they are aiming to eliminate MNT, maternal and neonatal tetanus from the face of the earth. And in doing so, the project will reach the poorest, most neglected mothers and babies with additional lifesaving health care. The end of this one disease means the beginning of better health for so many families. The disease strikes the poorest of the poor, the geographically hard to reach, and those without healthcare. Every nine minutes, a baby dies from tetanus. That short lifetime is marked by pain - with an extreme sensitivity to light, sound or contact that prevents even a mothers touch. Its effects are excruciating tiny newborns suf-

by Sheila Moore

fer repeated painful convulsions. More than 100 million women and their future babies must be protected. This will cost roughly 240 million US dollars. Already, millions have been committed. But a funding gap remains. Their Global Campaign for Children will raise 110 million dollars by 2015 - filling that gap and making Kiwanis the worlds largest single donor to the elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus. It is unacceptable that innocent newborns and their mothers suffer and die from MNT when it can be prevented so easily. This is also an amazing opportunity to reach the poorest, most neglected mothers and babies with life saving health care. Developing delivery systems for MNT vaccines will blaze a trail to provide additional, desperately needed services to these marginalized families. MNT is highly preventable. Just

three doses of a 60-cent immunization protects mothers, who then pass on the immunity to their future babies. Together, Kiwanis and UNICEF can stop this disease. As Kiwanis members we have always believed we can change the world one child and one community at a time, said Sheila Moore, President of the Kiwanis Club of Paris - Brant. Thats why were proud to work with UNICEF Canada, knowing that the simple act of buying tetanus vaccines will not only save a childs life, but protect future generations. Kiwanis clubs around the globe, and within our own communities, will continue to hold fundraisers for this cause so we dearly hope members of the public will keep an eye out for these events, and lend us their support.

January 2013

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Page 7

An Open Door
by Ryan Van Dijk email: worship.arts@counterpointchurch.ca
For seven years I have had the honour and privilege of playing the bells for Grace Anglican Church in downtown Brantford. I often stop to think about how many people look up with wonder at the gothic tower nestled in the heart of the city. When you walk in, you feel as though you are transported back three hundred years. At the top of a winding spiral staircase is a gallery overlooking the city where the bells are played. Twenty-five feet up above the gallery is another chamber, which houses ten bells tuned chromatically from C to E, each inscribed with scripture. Above that chamber lies the roof of the tower, and the most spectacular view of the city one could ever hope to find. Seven years ago, living across the street from the tower, I noticed the door had been left open. I had always been curious. Seizing the moment I instantly ran across the street, ascended the tower and, upon finding it empty, began to play around with this ancient and beautiful instrument. Since then I have played them for the church, for weddings, on holidays and even for the birthdays of neighborhood children. I would also like to give a soft apology to those in the area sleeping New Years Eve. Yet I also play them weekly simply because some part of me feels a bounden duty to shower the city with music because I believe there are still people out there who love to hear them. People who need to hear them because somehow it just makes life better if the bells are still ringing. Since walking through the door of the tower that day I have discovered a unique love for the tradition of bell ringing. Although I'm not Anglican, nor would even call myself a Christian, I was welcomed into the community. Shortly after I joined the choir at Grace, at first as a way of receiving free music lessons. However, I found much more there. The choir granted me a way of adding the study of music to the regular rhythm of my life. I have played guitar, piano and sang since I was fourteen in some capacity, but choir opened up a whole new understanding of the depth, beauty and the magic of music. Now, two years later, I find myself on staff as musical director for Counterpoint Church, also operating out of Grace. The bells are a terrible instrument when you are first learning because a third of the city can hear each and every one of your mistakes. Having only ten bells, with no sharps or flats also forces one to be inventive when writing and arranging music for the tower; imposed restrictions that are both a blessing and a curse. They sound beautiful, yet if you were in the same room when theyre playing, you would be deafened. Behind their sweet melodies lies a dissonant drone as each tone is laid down upon another and rubs against the last. Its a reminder for me of the delicate balance between dissonance and harmony that makes our lives interesting and beautiful both in our joy and our darkness. This tower has become a character in my life. I try to take care of it, archive its music and history, give it new music and share its history with others. Its always there, looming over my house, the largest and loudest instrument in the city. Somehow finding the door to the tower open that day, and taking on the duties of the bell ringer, has revealed a path and purpose in my life that was absent before. It was not a hard role to fall into, and its romantic allure has never been difficult to embrace. To have a platform with purpose to make music, alone and with others every week of my life is amazing to reflect upon and a sure sign, among so much more, of a blessed life.

Somehow finding the door to the tower open that day, and taking on the duties of the bell ringer, has revealed a path and purpose in my life that was absent before.

Photos courtesy of Paul Smith, Photohouse Studio / www.photohouse.ca

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January 2013

Everyone has a Song

Music changes mood and mood changes perceptions. With changed perceptions and altered perspectives, the experiences that life presents can be seen as a celebration of what it means to live life. Four years ago, Daniel Boskovic would not have believed you if you had told him that moving himself and his family to Brantford would put him on the path that he is on today. In a million years, he would not have thought he would have learned to play the flute, learn to handcraft flutes, and perform in front of live audiences. This is the story of how the flute has become an integral part of Daniels life. It began one spring day in 2011 when Daniel was visiting Oscar De Los Santos, a South American Medicine Man, sound healer and artist. That day would open the doors to undiscovered skies; skies through which Daniel would soar. Oscar had been working on one of his various projects and he invited Daniel into his workshop to show him his latest creation: a Native American Flute (NAF). The NAF was in the process of being completed and Oscar explained to Daniel how he went about crafting this instrument, but more importantly, the magic of it. Intrigued, though quiet, Daniel listened attentively. These words spoke to Daniels spirit and, less than two weeks later, Daniel had acquired a quena the traditional flute of the Andes. It was not long before Daniel learned how to make his quena sing. Daniel was a natural; he learned to make music with his quena so quickly, that one would think that he had been playing for years.

by Gabriela Boskovic

To say that the flute has changed his life is an understatement. For Daniel, learning to play the flute gave him the opportunity to express himself through the precious gift of breath. Having done a lot of self-healing work, Daniel had emptied himself enough to allow the flute to speak to him. Playing the flute helped him remove the barriers that kept him from expressing his deepest sorrows and allowed him to rediscover the celebration of his true, essential self. Daniel describes playing the flute as being like medicine. The flute puts the player in a highly meditative state and creates the space for spiritual connection. The flute captures the essence of our being and then through musical expression, releases it so that we may revel in its mystery. It is an enchanting experience that brings the player into the space where the spirit can take over and sing its song to the world. Because music is able to transcend all language barriers, it is truly the language of the soul. The flute is lifeless without the breath, your breath; and once you breathe into it, you also breathe your spirit into life. The spirit is a witness to all the experiences in a persons life, and the flute is an avenue by which the spirit can tell this story. Everyone has a song, Daniel says, and this song can be expressed with the flute.

Today, Daniel plays flute daily and is currently in the process of mastering the kaval a chromatic end-blown flute, traditionally played throughout the Balkans and Anatolia. Daniel has played at outdoor venues already, and this past summer just over a year after having learned to play he was invited to perform with Tribal Thunder at the Georgetown Big Daddy Festival. Daniel handcrafts flutes out of bamboo, cedar and cherry wood. Although Daniel consistently uses five scales to tune his flutes, he is always looking for new scales that will capture his heart. Some of the scales Daniel has used to breathe life into his flutes include: A major, E major, Arabian, Anasazi B flat, and the Anita Sazi, a smaller version of the Anasazi in the scale of C. In addition to handcrafting flutes for his own enjoyment, Daniel custom makes flutes for anyone who is interested in having a piece of magic in their life. Daniel is always eager to share his music and is elated when he can reveal the medicine of this captivating musical instrument. Whats next for Daniel? It is yet to be determined, but this witness eagerly waits for what is about to unfold. A new scale? A new style of flute? More live performances? Recording? Workshops? Teaching? Whatever it is, it is guaranteed to be spellbinding, and to be so by the grace of that spiritual essence that has expressed itself through the magic of the flute.

By mid-summer of that same year, Daniel, with Oscars encouragement and support, had handcrafted his first flute: the Anasazi a pre-historic flute dating back to 670 AD. From this point on, Daniel began creating his own flutes; crafting them out of wood, decorating them, and digitally tuning them to various scales.

Parenting Plain & Simple

The job is parenting. Someone has to do it. The people that created the small being are the ones originally blessed with that responsibility. They have a choice to take on the responsibility, or not. Sometimes those people choose to pass that responsibility to someone else that would be better suited for the job this decision is one that is not easy, and deserves a lot of respect. Sometimes people choose not to have children, and NOT to parent also not always an easy decision, and one that deserves to be respected. Sometimes people desperately want to be parents, and just cant their choices are to live without children, keep trying for their own, adopt, or just be surrogate parents to family and friends children. This is a most difficult situation to be in and deserves to be respected and supported, not questioned and judged. Once a parent makes a choice, either way, they need to step up to the plate, and do the job. In order to thrive, a person needs health, shelter, food and love. Children need this in higher doses than adults, and they depend on the adults in their world to get it. I admit to being a busy parent: meals, work, jobs, three activities per child per season, leisure time, reading, homework, maintaining a house and home, providing skates, bicycles, rollerblades, etc., seasonally appropriate clothing, and time. I admit to missing out on many precious moments that I will never get back. I admit to putting the needs of my family first (most of the time). I admit to doing the best I can with what is gifted to me (most of the time). I admit to having strong opinions, and making choices for my family based on those opinions. I admit that I have made mistakes. I admit that I could have done things in a gentler, softer, kinder way sometimes.

by Sylvia Collins

I admit that I have the two best kids in the entire world. I admit that I have moments of pride and frustration about each of them. I admit that when I give advice to my children, it is most often from MY perspective, and not always theirs. I admit that, in hindsight, my advice is probably not always the best for them, and I should not take it personally. Parenting was, and surprisingly still is, a huge priority for me. I was blessed with a huge support network as my children were growing up. I was blessed with an excellent example from my own mother and father. I have now been blessed with grandchildren. This is my time to recognize how precious each moment is. This is my time to listen to each word, and have a conversation at their speed, not mine. This is the time to indulge their schedule instead of mine. What difference does it

make if we spend ten minutes at the park, and then go home and get supper ready? This is my time to listen to curiosity about what scientists do, or why ice cream drips, or to understand why you can't wear the pink princess dress with the white crown. This is my reward for making a choice to be a parent, and then to parent! I was blessed with siblings that were my best friends, so our family was the core of our existence. I realize that others have not been as lucky as I have been. I know that other families had bigger houses, with pools, and fancier cars, and better bicycles, and fewer siblings to share the time of parents, and more leniency than we had, but no one had a better family for me! No one had a better home for me! No one could have been better parents to me! I hope that when my kids are all grown up, and they look back on their experiences as kids growing up, that they will reflect on how lucky they were, and how blessed they were, and how full their lives have been. I hope they don't remember the messy house, the not-sonew cars, the lack of money for big gifts or parties or trips. I hope someday they remember that this was the best family for THEM, and it was the best home for THEM, and that I was the best Mom for THEM.

Frank the Tank: The Practice of Patience

They say that the Universe/God/Allah/The Creator/The Goddess, whatever name you assign the power that is greater than humans, presents us with opportunities, often in disguise, to learn from and grow, to practice our weaknesses into strengths. Frankie has been my opportunity. He is a 25 pound beagle with big floppy ears and sad, soulful eyes. This is the kind of dog whose charm allows him to steal a sandwich right out of your mouth with no repercussions, except a light scolding about respect for boundaries which is cut short with a, Dont look at me with those eyes, plea. Love oozes out of this dog with little yelps and kisses and jumping around every time he sees someone he knows and has missed. A wicker box holds all his outfits, and all his toys are strewn across his couch yes, his couch. He loves to cuddle with people any chance he can get, and loves even more to watch the ducks at the pier. His life the last twelve months is very different from his first eight. When I adopted him on November 1, 2011, he was being I have always had dogs, but those experiences did not prepare me for Frankie. He was not house trained, nor had he ever walked on a leash. I found out quickly that if someone stared at him, he went into hysterics, howling and crying, and would only stop if someone rocked him. It has been over twelve months of speaking to him gently, making him feel secure, walking him every day, and providing opportunities for socialization. He is a very different dog now from who he was when he first came to live here. Frankie still has his challenges. There remain a lot of issues with him and trying to work through them can be very trying. He scares easily. Every time we walk and we come across another dog, he unleashes a howl that sounds like it is coming from a mythical creature. Sharing toys is a huge issue, as is sharing attention with other dogs. He has a lot fostered by a volunteer with Ugly Mutts, which is a rescue in Hamilton. His name at this time was Sam, and he had suffered abuse in his previous life. I changed his name to Frankie because Frank Sinatra is one of my favourites, and with the singing skills of beagles, I thought it was an appropriate name choice. of dog friends, but can be very territorial with even them. I had to buy him a raincoat because he refuses to step foot out of the house during any level of rain. As well, I have had to buy him waterless shampoo by Paul Mitchell (it is great) to avoid the horror of having a bath. And he has a life jacket to learn how to swim at the beach. Slowly, we are bringing him into the full hound that he is at his own pace. People have been very kind. When you are in my kind of work it is sometimes difficult to remember that there is a lot of goodness in this world and the opportunities afforded you to witness kindness are a blessing, and give you energy. He loves the women I work with and cant wait to get out of the truck and into the house to see them all. My mum babysits him all the time and tries various ways to socialize him. Other people in my life, including those I work with in the community, are always helping me with Frankie with positive messages and different training techniques. There are dog beds just for him at the houses of those whom I am closest with because he needs to have a safe place, wherever he is for when he gets overwhelmed or overstimulated. I worry all the time that other people in my life are going to give up on him before he comes into his full being. I can

by Carrie Sinkowski

see it in his little face how hard he is trying to keep it together. Patience has always been an issue for me. A Mohawk Elder I worked with while I was in university identified this weakness in me when she was sharing a series of traditional teachings with our student group. I had never really thought of myself as impatient. I have always worked with children, and for years, had and have been involved with crisis/trauma work, both of which require patience. When she shared her observation with me, I realized that I like things to happen, and I like them to happen now. With people, the practice of patience is very different. Patience, when it comes to process or project, is an entirely different entity. Frankies rehabilitation is a process. It is fluid. It has stops and setbacks, as well as gains. Things work and then do not work, and I need to always be finding new ways of helping him through the world. Patience is a necessity. My other weakness, is that I rarely ask for help from others. With Frankie, I have no other choice but to be humble and ask those in my life for assistance and support. Frankie is a pretty funny little dog with quirks, good days, and bad days. As I write this, he is sleeping under a mountain of plush toys on his couch, quite enjoying his second chance in this world.

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS WE WISH YOU A SAFE AND PROSPEROUS 2013
www.alfordandassociates.ca / 254 Brant Ave / 519.751.0901

January 2013

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Page 9

You Just Never Know

It's the beginning of the year and all I can think about are beginnings. It's amazing how these happen. Sometimes, you can't even tell that something is a beginning until years later. This happened to me just recently and when I made the connection it really took me aback. I was asked to speak at my old high school last month. We started talking about my own high school career, and some of the paths I was lucky enough to take. In the course of the conversation I realized, that the actions I took in Grade 9 one morning might have been the most important day in my personal life. Im going to tell you a story. It sounds implausible but it is 100 percent true. What happened? I stood up to a bully. I know, I know...this sounds like a cheesy selfhelp book but it really isnt like that. This isnt one of those stories about overcoming bullying where all these good things happened in some immediate way, or because I learned something abstract about self-esteem and how to stick up for myself. Although those are all very common and very good things that happen when we stand up to bullies, this just isnt that kind of story. No, this is more like that old James Burke TV show Connections where we learn how the creation of a candle led to the invention of the first crude espresso machine which led to the copper filaments that allowed for manned-space travel in the 50sor something like that. In grade 9 I was being bullied pretty badly. There was a kid in my math class, lets call him Nick. Nick was a big kid. I was a pip squeak. Nick was a few grades older than us and a really big guy. Did I mention he was big? He was and he scared me, I was being teased for weeks in class by this guy. Then the physical stuff started. He'd knock my books over, then check me in class or bump my desk when he walked by so that it crashed into my Whats that? Its a term I coined for what happened for the next 3 weeks. Erasers. Every. Day. Little. Bits. Thrown. At. My. Head. Sometimes 30 or 40 of these bits were thrown at me in a single class. It didnt hurt but it still made my face red. I hated it. He sat behind me and I knew everyone in class just witnessed this day in and day out. But what were they to do? Nick was one of the biggest kids in school let alone the biggest kid in a Grade 9 class. I was afraid to look back to see him, or to see anyone making eye contact with me. I was ashamed and embarrassed. chest. Then all that stopped. I dont know if a teacher had talked to him but all the overt physical stuff had died down and he had replaced it with Catholic School Eraser Torture.

by Marc Laferriere Twitter: @marclaferriere

Then I had an idea. I couldnt say anything but I could write it. So for 3 days I just wrote in my blue and black binder all of the things I would say to Nick if I was a bigger kid, a tougher kid, a braver kid. And then one morning I just had enough. My heart started pumping and my face turned redder than the other days. I said to myself if this guy throws just one more thing at me Im going to say whatevers written in this binder. As you can imagine he threw another piece of eraser and I can still remember exactly how it felt hitting my left ear. Its been 17 years and just thinking about it gives me a sense memory like when youve been wearing headphones too long and you take them off but it still feels like they are on your head.

pointing at Nick and a voice I could swear sounded a lot like my crackly little grade 9 voice screamed F%#K YOU, YOU CORN SHUCKING JACK OFF. For the record, I wouldnt recommend this as an anti-bullying measure to any 14 year old at any Catholic school, or any other school for that matter. Its funny to think about now, but in that class that day no one was laughing. Especially not Nick, myself or the teacher. Suddenly other students got up and started telling the teacher that I had been bullied and picked on for weeks. I remember a kid named Andrew who was a pretty tough guy himself standing up and pointing at his eye while telling the teacher he was an EYE witness. Nick and I were thrown out of class. In the hall he said he was going to beat me up and I got in his face and told him to look at the size of him and the size of me and that the only time he could have beaten me up and not looked bad was when I swore at him, but that was 10 minutes ago and he hadnt done it. Instead he had backed down and tried to tell the teacher it wasnt true and that he shouldnt have to get kicked out of class or suspended. He just looked at me angry and stumped. I dont think he knew what to say. I dont think either of us could believe what I had said. Where did this come from? I couldnt tell you as we both marched down to the office wondering where this would go next. There is a lot more to this story but were out of space for this month. Stay tuned, next month we'll see how young me gets out of this one, finds his way into social work, meets his best friend, and finds his wonderful life partner. Next month, same column, same page. See you here.

I read the last sentence I had written in my fantasy binder where I was a bigger, tougher, braver kid. Except now I could feel myself standing up, turning around and

The Backbone of Community

by Karolina Niejadlik Facebook: Mobile Registered Massage

Women rock! I mean, men rock too, and I can fully appreciate what great men contribute to society, in fostering relationships in our community. But, being a woman myself, I know it is within our nature to nurture. That is why I firmly believe when women are beaten down, physically or emotionally, its not just the woman that suffers, its the whole community. It is those women who are, in most cases, providing care to the next generation of sons and daughters that will one day be taking care of us in old age. This idea of our own inherent awesomeness has been with me for a while. In fact, it started from an early age when I would sit down with my grandma and listen to her tell me life stories from her time in postwar communist Poland. During that time, food was scarce, jobs were hard to come by, and people were struggling. On top of it all, my grandma was living with my biological grandpa, an alcoholic who would squander any money they would have on his drinking habit, a habit that caused altercations and tension in an already volatile situation. I remember hearing this story more than once and thinking of my grandma as quite the amazing lady, as she told me of her struggle and determination to live a better life. It was on a

cold and snowy day that she wrapped up my one year old dad in a blanket, placed him in a small laundry basket and decided to leave her home. Walking to her girlfriends house through the dark forest that separated them, she left the life she knew for another. In those days, women didnt leave their men, and they certainly didnt have children to take care for on their own. During that time, my grandma took care of my dad on her own, enduring persecution and the shame of having a child without a father. It wasnt easy and at times my dad would carry the burden of being teased in school for being a bastard. Around the time my father was six, my grandma met my grandpa and that is when things started to get better. When she tells me this story, she has always looked me straight in the eye and said, Karolina, it doesnt matter how good looking a man is, how much money he has, what kind of possessions he owns, if he doesnt treat you right, nothing else matters. It was at that point that I realized what amazing people my grandparents are. My grandpa accepted my grandma for who she was, fully and wholeheartedly, taking my dad in as his own and raising him up to be the kind, caring man he is today. My grandma had the courage to leave a life of illusioned security

to face obstacles and ultimately provide a better life for my dad.

It doesnt matter how good looking a man is, how much money he has, what kind of possessions he owns, if he doesnt treat you right, nothing else matters.
My grandmas life is what inspires me and makes me realize the potential we all have within us if we step out of our comfort zone and take the first step to change. Anytime Ive thought of this story, I think, if my grandma lived through it, there must be others

that may be living through similar situations as well. Over the years Ive thought to myself, how do I give back, not just by giving money, but by getting involved. This thought kept on nagging at me, so when I started my own business, Mobile Registered Massage, it dawned on me that with being mobile I have the advantage of offering registered massage therapy treatments in the comfort and security of ones own surroundings. With my grandma in mind, I thought of the women in our community in similar situations, at the beginning of their journey to a better life. That is when I contacted Nova Vita womens shelter and inquired about offering my mobile massage services to help these wonderful ladies. I knew these ladies, who've been through so much emotionally, and at times, physically, would surely benefit from a little relaxation treatment. By providing a brief moment of refuge, with massage therapy, I felt I could introduce positive human contact, which may have been missing in their previous lives. I wanted these ladies to feel cared for and valued as the strong determined people they are. To show that there are people in the community that care about their well being, who truly believe they are the backbone in our community.

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January 2013

How about a Cuppa?

Hello tea. Nice to drink you! Did you know that tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world, second only to water? Maybe youll also be surprised you learn that tea is a hydrating drink! This means tea counts towards the 6-8 cups of water that doctors recommend we drink daily. This is great news for the many people who struggle to drink enough water every day! (My Mom was very excited when I told her tea was a hydrator!) What is this beverage called tea and where did it come from? Why do we drink it? If you go by popular Chinese legend, tea was accidentally discovered by Shenoog, the Emperor of China in 2737 B.C. During a trip away, some of his servants were boiling his water when some withered leaves from a nearby bush fell in the water, changing its colour and smell. The Emperor enjoyed the new aroma and tasted the drink for himself. (He was a progressive Emperor!) Legend follows that he ordered his servants to bring the bush back to his plantation and away tea grows from there! Since then many other cultures have taken this same warm-weather evergreen bush, called the Camellia Sinensis, and processed/dried the leaves in different ways to produce the various tea varieties that we now enjoy. According to the Tea Association of Canada, there are over 1,500 tea varieties from the Camellia Sinensis bush. These teas can be divided into five types: black, oolong, green, white and puerh, and each type differs by how it is processed. For example, some types require leaving the tea leaves to oxidize for varying amounts of time while others are fermented. The natural chemical reactions of the processes result in unique tastes and characteristics. Think of it like wine! There are many types of wines coming from one type of grape its all in the processing, and letting nature do its thing, that results in something very yummy! Have you heard the saying, Drink some tea everyday to keep the doctor away? There is a lot truth to this! Tea, like fruits and vegetables, is a natural source of polyphenols and flavonoids which have antioxidant activity. Antioxidants slow down oxidation and in our bodies antioxidants can soak up free radicals. These are unstable substances which can disrupt biochemical processes in the body and have been implicated in cancer and heart disease prevention. Sounds complicated but, ultimately, we just need to know that tea contains antioxidants which our bodies need to fight certain diseases. Tea is also a natural source of fluoride that can help protect against tooth decay and gum disease. So I can drink my yummy tea and Ill be healthier doing it?! To this I say, YAY! (or so my 2-year old son would say!)

by Marianne Schuts Twitter: @MarianneSchuts

Rachel Assuncao, my health coach, says tea is a great addition to a healthy lifestyle, especially when it replaces other, less healthy, beverages. "While water is by far the healthiest beverage choice, sometimes it can be boring. Drinking tea is a great alternative, whether iced and refreshing after exercise or on a hot day, or hot and naturally sweet to help curb those sugar cravings. You can enjoy naturally caffeine free or low caffeine teas like herbal, roobios, white or green throughout the day as a healthy calorie-free addition to your everyday diet. I have made this healthy lifestyle change. No more diet pop! Once again, YAY! Whats the difference between loose leaf tea and tea bags? Its all a matter of taste and choice. I mostly drink loose leaf as I know it is a superior quality tea. Just to be clear, there are tea bags that contain loose leaf teas so as not to confuse them with generic grocery store tea bags. Loose leaf tea is made from the whole leaf, and thus, allows for greater infusion of flavour. Tea bag tea is made from the tiniest, broken leftover tea leaves called fannings. On top of this, tea tastes best when the leaves are able to move or steep freely in the water; tea bag tea is very limited in how much the fannings can move around thus limiting the flavor infusion. There are also a much larger variety of loose leaf teas from which to choose. Loose leaf doesnt have to be that much more work ei-

ther. Its all about having the right tools. I personally love my stainless steel Henley teapot with mesh infuser and no drip spout! As my husband always says, anything can be done easily if you have the right tools! Even he now enjoys a cuppa tea with me in the evening. (And that is saying something because hes a big coffee lover.) Some quick tips on brewing the perfect cup of tea: Use fresh cold water. Never re-boil your water. (re-boiling results in a bitter taste) Never over-boil your water. (over-boiling results in a flat taste) Do not wash your tea pot with soap. (unless you prefer a soapy after taste!) Use one teaspoon of loose leaf tea per cup, unless otherwise indicated. Always brew your tea for the proper amount of time. But then again, some people like a bitter tea! Serve with milk, sugar, lemon or on its own. Try pouring tea over ice for a completely different drink! And if you really think about it, the best cup of tea is often about who you drink it with. Take a few minutes to enjoy a cuppa with your friends. Its creating and recollecting those memories that life is all about! I really could go on and on about tea etiquette, myths about caffeine levels and so much more but lets save that for another tea talk!

Diary of a PSW
Today hasnt been a good day at all. Ive been needing to have a day for myself so I could take the vehicle to the shop, as it sometimes has issues starting. So here it is Monday morning: my car wont start, Im stressed to the max with work, and I have a sore back. Also, Im the only PSW willing to assist this particular RN on this difficult case, and the only PSW trained enough to handle this case, as it needs a lot of mental health nursing. Well call her Jackie. Shes in her forties and is paraplegic due to being run over by a train. She has acquired brain injury, hallucinations and is a drug addict. We thought that, especially because of being paralyzed, she wouldnt be addicted any longer. So they send me there and back via taxi because I dont have a car. Its out of town, so Im late. The client is in a full blown crisis; her blood pressure is high since she gained a hundred pounds in ten months. Having to give the client choice, she chose carbs such as bagels for breakfast. She is angry and threatening and, if she had arms, she'd beat us within an inch of our lives. The client is provided her meds and some are missing, so we have to borrow from another days pills until we figure this mess out. I forgot to mention: her husband is also an addict and is her primary care provider. She is having very big issues today. We come to notice she had been sexually assaulted in the night by her spouse. For a paraplegic, this can result in a fatal stroke or another serious medical issue. So the ambulance takes her in based on that. While there, we mentioned about medications missing, so they check her levels by way of blood test. Here we find out later, she had been given an injection of heroin just prior to our visit, and the pills we assume were sold on the street. A very stressful client and situation in the home, we were very glad to get her the help she needed and the care she

by Brenda Bondy-Caldicott Facebook: Brenda Bondy-Caldicott

Time to get the kettle on!

needed in hospital as she was obviously abused as we learned after.

My next client I enjoy seeing very much. She is more concerned about validation and talking about her life experiences than about whether her hair is washed. We really have to cue her for good hygiene, as she is left alone all day by her only child and she wouldnt do it on her own. She explains she was in a concentration camp and talks for three hours about her family and how she doesnt understand why none of them come around anymore. She is a very smart lady and knows everything going on around her, and knows its not that they cant come. The fact is, they cant be bothered to drive two minutes down the road for even a five minute hello. She wishes me a Merry Christmas, as I do back, and she makes me take five minutes to have a hot chocolate with her before heading out. I realize that the only human contact this lady gets is our visits. Sad, especially at this time of year. On to my other job at a retirement home. Today should be a nice visit, I'm hoping. Alex (not his real name) is sleeping when I knock and enter his room. He's snuggled up to his 80-year-old doll. When its time for his afternoon care, we gently have to put his dolly aside on the bed. As explained to us, it is so she can continue her sleep. He is very protective of this doll and if looks could kill, we'd have died a thousand deaths. We assure him the doll is safe and will remain safe on the bed. At some point in his life, his family member smashed the dolls legs to pieces. He explained to us that he put her back together as best as he could. After all, shes his pride and joy, all these years he has had her. With afternoon care complete, he joins her once again under the covers to complete happiness.

Working my fifth job for extra money, since the others arent enough hours to eat and pay rent. I think to myself, no wonder we get caregiver burnout and stress issues. On top of that, we get disregarded as an important part of the team that takes care of these patients. There is little to no liaise with the registered staff. At least, not in Long Term Care where it is most needed. Its my first shift alone, after what they call orientation where one is supposed to get the facility training needed to be effective. I was thrown right in as a regular worker, which should never be done when shadowing. When I showed up, everything was chaotic. None of the residents were assigned until I walked in. They handed me the worst and toughest cases. Prior, I was told to pull the call bell so someone could help me to transfer, as this is a must. It prevents injury to the worker and it is safer for the resident. Its been awhile since I worked a lot of Long Term Care, and usually if I did, it was respite care given only on a private pay basis. I relied on myself, so transfers were not usually required. This particular shift, my bells got ignored. I was abandoned both times I rang for help. One time I stuck my head out in the hall and the girl who walked by told me to shut it off. I explained that I pulled it because I was waiting for her help. She reluctantly, after it was all done, came in to see if the patient was coming to breakfast after I had explained that the client refused and was tired now. Like I can't state the clients wishes accurately. If they refuse, we are not legally allowed to do anything against their wishes. I've done all my baths and my clients are up, having had breakfast in their rooms as they requested. I go to join my team as they've returned from wherever they were, in the dining area. A person, who I now know to be reg-

istered staff, is in a mood. She sees me and starts verbally harassing me. I explain where I've been and report that the patients wished to eat their breakfast in their rooms. Which turned out to be a good thing, because they couldn't have gotten in since the dining room doors were locked down, due to a fire emergency anyway. I realize then that Im not feeling well from the harassment, physically sick at this point, as she walks away from me. Shes done with me, she states. Im dumbfounded by what happened. Surely a PSW, or anyone for that matter, needn't be subjected to that at their job. I guess thats what Human Rights Tribunals are for, but do we really have the time and emotional energy to be having to take this any higher, when the work in itself is stressful enough. There is no advocacy for the workers since the person in charge is herself a registered staff member, never taking the side of the Frontline worker PSW. We are starting a business where patients can hire directly their choice of PSW, paid at $17 per hour to start, so we can begin having control over our lives, finances and emotional health too, in order to be the most effective worker. Thats what its all about, to be the most effective PSW. I was thinking that hasnt changed since I went to school, and I havent lost sight of what its supposed to be about. This also is why I joined OPSWA and work as an Admin. Asst/Board Chair at OPSWA. PSWs need representation and advocacy. We research LTC issues, PSW complaints, etc. Our PSWs are screened and are highly requested due to their upgrading and education. We also teach a Module at College level on the Role Of A PSW, and help educate others to become Professional PSWs.

The GPS Solution

My husband and I created this proposal in 2008. It has been sent to our government through our local MP, it went before the Ministry of the Enviornment, The Department of Transportation and several other MPs. We believe that the reason it was never implemented was simply the fear that less gas and cars, therefore less taxes would result. His Highness Prince Charles thought it was a good idea, Arnold Swartzinegger, then mayor thought it was a great idea, and we have letters from other officials. BUT no one has acknowledged our idea, no one has attempted to use it or any part of it. Why? We are sure that it has to do with money in the end. Five years of introductions, we even got in front of the Dragons of Dragons Den who gave us a whole 30 seconds on air. We have been stone walled all along. We wanted to help the environment, make things better for your children and ours, and save lives. Here it is. See what you think! It is a fact that there are far too many vehicles on the road today. The result is traffic jams, accidents, and worst of all, pollution and wasted gas. Another little known fact

by Lynne Joseph

is if three or more people are in an average car, it can be the most energy efficient mode of transportation per person/mile traveled. The customer, both driver and passenger communicates wirelessly with a computer through a form of G.P.S enabled device with mapping capability. Voice and cell phone capability may be employed but is not essential. There are GPS systems available from many companies for cars and people. Many cell phones and cars already

have GPS and communication capabilities. Now, lets take this idea and add it to the idea of Car Pooling. Some individuals already take advantage of this form of transportation to save on gas, to share expenses or to save on the stress of having to drive for hours every day just to get to work and back. Car pooling is very inefficient though as you must find the person to pick up. You pick them up and drop them off etc. You often need to go far out of your way. Car Pooling currently works best when you are traveling longer distances..

Octopus Red is a creative communitcations agency specializing in graphic arts & web development. Weve had the opportunity to work with some amazing organizations here in Brantford. What can we do for you? 519.209.4189 / www.octopusred.com

January 2013

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Page 11

The Church Is Weird But So Are You

I've spent almost all of my life as a church person. I had a couple of years where God gave me a mulligan while tasting the fru-its of the dev-ilbut prospectively, the Christian Church has always been a major part of my life. I grew up in the United Church, split away to go free-agent Indy, joined a Congregational network, was a die-hard Pentecostal, had a brief respite as an African grassrootsy, and then planted a non-denominational called Freedom House here in Brantford to try and bring 'em all together. I have a deep appreciation for all of them, while still having lingering burrs up my butt about all of them. They all confuse and infuse me with passion. But I have a growing understanding that God loves them all more unilaterally than I previously suspected. There are 2.1 billion people like me, mandated by an ancient, living, teaching to gather regularly and live life together as a part of massive global family. It's estimated that there are 3.7 million Christian congregations around the world with 67,000 denominations. There are close to 50,000 new congregations being added each year. Talk about family dynamics! The Church comes with many of same the daily struggles that most organizations have with the one major difference. It has a mandate from God Himself. The weight of this charge mixed with human preferences, bents and traditions can wind up beingwellweird. I've been in a meeting that included (not exaggerating here) 50 swords that including most of the Lord of the Rings replicas by the end of worship, were being waved about. I've been in a prayer room with a group of quiet contemplative Baptists when "The Shofar Guy" triumphantly walked in and began blowing that rams horn like his life depended on it. That's a moment that would have won Americas Funniest Home Prayer Room Videos. Or at least got the Tom Bergeron bobblehead. I've also been in meetings that saw people laying prostrate on the ground under the weighty presence of a tangible God. I'm sure I haven't seen it all, but I've seen lots of good, bad and a whole lot of in between. Because each person in each of these stories was, and still is, expressing from a very genuine place of worship to the same God, His grace for all of it must be more broadly defined than ours oftens succumbs to. People are the variable in each equation. It's not easy to figure out how we humans should behave around someone we respect and want to impress. A good looking girl, a business person you look up toGod. And because of that, sometimes it can get weird and awkward. Like you never panicked and done something awkward when youve gone a courtin? Not every moment has to be poignant. Most arent. I was in a worship service recently where, at one point, there was a woman attempting to sing in a falsetto that sounded like a cooing dove struggling to breathe. At the same time, there was a young woman singing completely off key in my ear. At the same time, a shaggy man was aggressively knee-drumming completely off beat to a song I didn't like. I wanted to bail and take a walk just to let my brain exhale. But what was happening was genuine. People were lifting what they had, in their own way, to God. Not prettybut real. More real than most life scenarios, because people were actually expressing love. A rare bird sometimes. I remember going to a family funeral when I was a zealous young Christian at a small Anglican Church. Sadly, I got weird. It ended with me being outraged that the priest delivering the message had the nerve to not preside over the meeting like I would have done. I tore out of the parking lot in my dilapidated Chevy Cavalier to make a point. It was an incredibly immature reaction to something as menial as style. I hadnt learned to get over the things that just don't matter. A few summers ago I visited Saint Joseph's Oratory, a massive Catholic Church in Montreal. The largest church by size in Canada. It was made by a spunky little man named Andr Bessette. The most impressive part was not the size of the Jesus statue around the sea of candles. It was the walls upon walls covered with thousands of canes and crutches that used to belong to people whom Catholic priest Andr Bessette prayed for. Bessette would visit the sick in their homes and recommend them in prayer to St. Joseph. Hed anoint them with oil from the lamp that burned before the St. Joseph altarand theyd be healed. Like healed, healed! My charismatic side leapt for joy when I saw this. My prideful protestant side wanted to be theology conflicted. Why did a saint have to be all wrapped up in this equation? It should have messed with my

by Dave Carrol Twitter: @davecarrol

theology. But I'm learning something. God desperately wants to show himself through his Church and he mercifully grants us gobs of grace while we make our way through this astounding mission as awkward, mid-learning-process, but loving kids. The Church is made up of billions of ordinary people just like me, with a burden to share Jesus with the worldsomehow. So many of these people make enormous life sacrifices to do it. Many never invest in retirement plans because they feel their money would be better spent on The Church. Many make below poverty line salaries, because it's what The Church can afford. Many receive, "You're a heretic and you're leading people to hell," emails and personal confrontations daily, because of a desire to stand for truth. Many around the world lead churches without any education whatsoeverjust because it's burning in them. Many live with the discouraging feeling of an uphill battle, but with a heart full of Holy, ache for the world around them. But there are those windows of time where were granted a taste of U2's heavenly dream of, The kingdom come where all the colours will bleed into one. An earthly preview of coming eternal attractions. And that my brothermakes it worth it. The Church is weird but extraordinarily beautiful. I want more.

What can we learn from the Quebec Student Movement?

by Dr. James Cairns Facebook: Brian Beattie

Last spring, hundreds of thousands of Quebec students went on strike to stop the provincial governments plan to raise tuition by 75 per cent. Students marched in the streets, held teach-ins on campuses, occupied government buildings, joined labour and community groups in related protests, and organized fun-filled pot-banging sessions that drew large crowds of supporters from neighbourhoods throughout the province. Students used their collective power to disrupt the normal flow of life until winning their core demands. In halting the tuition hike, Quebec students won a rare victory against the austerity agenda. Since the economic crash of 2008, governments and business leaders have implemented austerity policies designed to make poor and working-class people pay for the crisis that was caused by basic features of the capitalist economy. The austerity agenda aims to establish conditions for private businesses to start making profits again by attacking social programs, rolling back wages, slashing pensions, firing public sector workers, and increasing user-fees on a range of public services. Raising postsecondary tuition is a central plank in the austerity agenda. In Quebec, students took a stand against austerity and won. Quebec is only a few hundred kilometres from Brantford, but given the massive upsurge of struggle there, it can feel like a world away. Yet we have our own fights to prepare for. The Ontario government has already slashed programs that support poor and working-class people. It has frozen teachers salaries, and taken away

their right to strike. The government is promising to deepen these cuts and make new ones across all sectors, including postsecondary education. If the government has its way, this definitely means that the high cost of tuition in Ontario will go up, saddling students with ever-growing debt loads as they head out onto a gloomy job market. Proposed changes will also mean increasing class sizes and the number of courses students are required to complete online. Looming funding cuts are sure to increase the workload of contract faculty, who are already forced to bear unreasonably heavy loads without adequate compensation and no job security. Now is the time to deepen our thinking about how to build the organizations and networks that will be necessary to overturn the austerity agenda and raise democracy to new heights. As we do so, the example of the Quebec student strike provides an important model. For one thing, the student movement in Quebec is a crucial reminder that when people organize collectively and democratically, they have the power to change the world. In March 2011, the Liberal government in Quebec announced plans to raise tuition fees by 75 per cent. By spring 2012 more than 300,000 Quebec students were taking limited strike action against the proposed tuition hike, and more than 170,000 were on an unlimited strike that ended up lasting more than 6 months. Decisions about striking and other actions were made by students at regular meetings (often called assemblies) in student unions, faculties, individual programs, and other places across campuses. The assemblies of-

fered students real power to make decisions over their own lives, an experience too often lacking in colleges and universities. In May and June of this year, despite the governments attempt to break up the movement by passing harsh laws that criminalized street protest, the student strike became so large and powerful that the academic year was suspended. The government explained that students disruption to business-as-usual in Quebec was part of what forced it to call a fall election. The Liberals lost that election and were replaced by the Parti Quebecois. The new government immediately canceled the tuition hike. The students core aim was won. Yet, although student mobilizing focused on ending the tuition hike, it also demanded an end to racism, sexism, and homophobia within the education system. Students also campaigned for aboriginal justice, environmental justice, greater protections and better wages for workers throughout the province, and against poverty. Through their solidarity work, students pointed out the various ways in which these struggles are connected. They declared that the broad impact of austerity compels us to fight together or see the conditions of life worsen for everyone except the super rich. Of course not every single student has the very same experience, and there are important differences between student lives and the lives of people who do not study or work on postsecondary campuses. But rather than presume that such differences must pit students, staff, faculty, and everyone else against each other, it is more helpful to recognize the widespread impact of austerity, and view resistance to the austerity agenda as a key point of unity.

People on and off campuses have similar concerns about the difficulty of finding stable work to support themselves and their loved ones. More and more people are struggling with huge debts at the same time as theyre struggling to pay the bills. The economic crisis has been especially devastating to women, migrant workers, indigenous communities, and poor people. Yet businesses continue to roll back wages and benefits and cut jobs, and governments are slashing the services people count on in order to survive. Drawing inspiration from the Quebec student movement, we need to develop ways of bringing people together in order to learn from one another and act collectively to fight against austerity and for greater democracy and social justice. As students in Quebec demonstrated, this involves aligning new movements with the needs of the least advantaged people on campus and throughout society, with a core emphasis on supporting indigenous struggles. Its not that the Quebec experience is a perfect blueprint that simply needs to be implemented from place to place to place. But it does provide a useful model for thinking about what genuine solidarity looks like in action, and gives us a sense of whats possible when masses of people mobilize together to change the world. James Cairns teaches in the Contemporary Studies program at Laurier Brantford. He is the co-author, with Alan Sears, of The Democratic Imagination: Envisioning Popular Power in the 21st Century (www.democraticimagination.com).

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