Columns

I have to admit it; Ottawa is a funny place sometimes. All of the oxygen in the capital over the summer has been taken up by a number of minor scandals – the billion dollar G8-G20 boondoggle, the attack on the census, and the phony debate on the Long Gun Registry that is still weeks away from a vote. It’s not to say these issues aren’t important, but the extensive and relentless coverage of these mini-scandals makes me wonder if the national media are asleep at the switch and have failed to notice that Canada is possibly heading towards a double–dip recession.

I really only have had three uncles in my life. All came from my mother’s side of the family. She had two brothers and her sister married my uncle Ron Anderson. He is the uncle that I am most close to. Ron was my father’s best friend.
I am told that they were the best of chums and greatly depended upon each other. The fact that Ron Anderson and Bob Cumming married sisters helped bond both families together. There was never a family birthday, anniversary, or holiday that the two families did not get together.

By Melanie Mathieson
Gardening Guru

By Jack Elliott
Contributor

At this time of year with the garden producing at its max, what better time to share the fruits of one’s labour. But beware there are pitfalls.

By Gary Sliworsky
OMAFRA Rep.

By Al Lowe
Contributor

There is a lot of misinformation out there about the cause and prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in our society. I would like to use my column space this week to address this issue, provide some information about this disorder, and explain what I am doing to reduce the prevalence of FASD in our society.

The parking lot at the marina was only half full on Saturday afternoon. Dried leaves floated across the surface of the blue waters of Rainy Lake. The water temperature of the lake had risen several degrees. Those still at their cabins were enjoying the last weekend of August.
Our friends, the Pedeskys on the south side of the island were packing up and heading home to Wisconsin on Sunday. The canoes and kayaks were stored for the winter. The fridge was defrosting. And their two children were frolicking in the lake for the last time this year.

By Susan Douglas
RR Red Hat Society

Les Rouge Rogues have been active over the summer months and are planning for their 7th year of laughter and friendships in Rainy River.

By Melanie Mathieson
Gardening Guru