Welcome to Doctors Ostapowicz - INSIDE Sean Conway honoured by Ontario p.3 Shop local in lockdown p.6 Valley chief medic on Covid p.10 ...
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FREE
INSIDE…
Sean Conway honoured by Ontario p.3
Shop local in lockdown p.6
Valley chief medic on Covid p.10
FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021
Welcome to Doctors Ostapowicz
ELSER LEE ARCHER
BARRY’S BAY
We welcome Doctors Daniel and Teresa
Ostapowicz to the Valley. These inter-
nationally-trained physicians of Polish
heritage began their practice here in
November 2020 and have both been a
part of this community in the past.
Teresa’s Valley history starts with her
family, as her father was a boy scout at
the Kaszuby camp. Teresa has main-
tained longtime friendships with neigh-
bours of the family cottage on Wad-
sworth Lake since she was seven years
old. So it was a comfortable choice to
set up practices in an area they were
already familiar with, both having com-
pleted a medical rotation here in 2015.
Teresa worked with Dr. Coulas, and
Daniel with Dr. Atfield in Barry’s Bay
and Dr. Joo at Rainbow Valley Commu-
nity Health Centre in Killaloe.
Following university in Canada, the
couple met at Jagiellonian School of
Medicine in Kraków, where classes
were in English but patients were
served in the Polish language. Both
Teresa and Dan did advanced stud-
ies and residencies at Ottawa Civic
and CHEO, as well as in the U.S. (Yale Doctors Daniel and Teresa Ostapowicz with children, Laura (left) and Emilia.
Medical Centre and the Mayo Clin-
ic), so they come to the Valley with a Daniel said, “It’s pretty special that it’s the EPIC system and other electronic
wealth of experience. Even in Ameri- the first Polish community [in Canada]. medical records that allow a doctor to
can cities they learned to become We both like the outdoors — I used to view critical information and imag-
resourceful physicians because local run ultra-marathons in the mountains ing on demand. They also applauded
hospitals in some neighbourhoods out west and Teresa was a long distance telemedicine services that strengthen
lack necessary resources. runner in university. We love this area.” the relationships with larger area hos-
They explained what led them to One often sees Drs. Teresa and Dan- pitals and provide increased access to
establish a practice together in Bar- iel Ostapowicz walking their children, specialists in the comfort of a patient’s
ry’s Bay. Teresa said, “Before graduat- Laura and Emilia, with the stroller or home or rural hospital.
ing medical school in May 2016 we of- sharing roles as parents and doctors. All in all our two new Doctors Osta-
ten were a team — it was natural for us During the interview they praised powicz explained that taking over Dr.
to work together in our work life and the local Emergency department de- Atfield’s practice in Barry’s Bay and area
home life when married. It was always scribing a team of excellent nurses allows them to provide a level of service
our dream to raise our family together and doctors. They remarked on cre- expected in an urban centre while they
and open a practice. We believed that ative and resourceful medical services can enjoy the benefits of a rural com-
could work here.” from Pembroke and Ottawa including munity they now call home.
www.madvalleycurrent.com
2 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT
$224,183.50 for Catch The Ace winner
YOUR SOURCE FOR LOCAL INFORMATION
in the Madawaska Valley and area
To list your event, business or organization
email info@algonquineast.com.
Most listings are free.
Pat and Lorna beam for the cameras as they hold the cheque.
Lorna Leach and husband Pat Leach care Foundation Catch The Ace draw.
of Micksburg are no strangers to Bar- Not only that, but her chosen number,
ry’s Bay. Over the years they’ve been 26, (son Nat’s birthday is July 26) was
here many times and had even re- the number of the envelope containing
cently visited to have lunch at the Ash the elusive Ace of Spades.
Grove Inn. That meant instead of just winning
But on Dec.18 their trip to the Bay a substantial Weekly Prize of $9,070
was for a very different purpose indeed. the progressive jackpot of $215,113.50
BAYBERRYDESIGN.CA Lorna’s ticket was drawn the evening was rolled into Lorna’s winnings, so the
before in the St. Francis Valley Health- amount on her cheque was $224,183.50
MKC Director wins the 2020 Marilyn
Alexander Tourism Champion Award
BARRY’S BAY On December 17, 2020 the Ottawa
Valley Tourist Association (OVTA) cel-
ebrated the winners of the 2020 Ot-
tawa Valley Tourism Awards during a
virtual event. OVTA Awards celebrate
Thanks for supporting the Legion. the dedicated, creative and passionate
PANCAKE BREAKFAST tourism operators and individuals in
the Ottawa Valley.
SUNDAY JANUARY 24 Barry’s Bay resident, Stefani Van Wijk
8 am to 12 pm received the 2020 Marilyn Alexander
Tourism Champion Award, a commem-
Adults: $12 • Kids 6 to 12: $6 orative award recognizing an individual
Under 6: free OVTA member who is an active tourism
Social distancing regulations in place. champion for the Ottawa Valley. As Direc-
tor of the Madawaska Kanu Centre — a
CLUB ROOM: Re-opens Jan.23 at three-generation family business — Ste- and this year appreciation for the wilder-
2 pm. Open Monday, Wednesday, fani believes in working collaboratively ness and outdoor recreation has soared.
Saturday, from 2 pm to 6 pm, and developing strong partnerships with We’ve learned so many things this year
local businesses and the community. and I’m hopeful we can move forward in
and Friday 2 pm to 8 pm “I’m so honoured to receive this award,” a way that cares more about each other,
Follow us on Facebook exclaimed Stefani Van Wijk. “Challenges our unique needs, our health, the land
make us realize what’s important in life and the watershed.”
www.madvalleycurrent.com
FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | 3
Barry’s Bay’s Sean Conway
receives Ontario’s highest honour
MARK WOERMKE
BARRY’S BAY
Residents of the Madawaska Valley and
the riding of Renfrew-Nipissing-Pem-
broke, will be particularly interested to
learn that Barry’s Bay’s Sean Conway
has received this honour.
Conway, who was Ontario’s youngest
MPP when he was first elected in 1975,
served Ontarians and his constituents
until 2003 in a variety of ministerial and
critic roles, as Government House lead-
er and as Deputy Leader of the Opposi-
tion. Since his departure from elected
politics, he has continued to offer his
talent, knowledge and experience in a
variety of roles. CLEANERS NEEDED
In his Order of Ontario profile, Con- NOW HIRING
way is acknowledged as having served Sean Conway, above. The Honorable
Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Cleaning Crews (Barry’s Bay,
Ontario with great distinction as a leg- Pembroke, Renfrew)
Governor of Ontario announced
islator, public policy expert, advisor, the appointment of 47 outstanding
educator and author, and it is noted
• Full-time and part-time
Ontarians to the Order of Ontario, the positions available
that his “captivating and legendary ora- province’s highest honour on January 1,
tory” in the legislature earned him the 2021. Of the 47, 22 are for the year 2019 • Various shifts, including some
respect of all parties. while 25 are for 2020. PHOTO: WM ENRIGHT weekends
When interviewed by The Current, • Immediate start-date
Conway indicated that he had been the Ottawa Valley and the remarkable
• Wages based on experience
made aware of his appointment a few men and women who made it.”
days before Christmas when he was Jayne Brophy of Pembroke, who was We are a fast growing
contacted by the Lieutenant Gover- Liberal riding association president commercial cleaning company
nor’s office; the Minister of Heritage, for a number of years and worked on that offers on-the-job training to
Sport, Tourism and Culture Lisa Ma- many of Conway’s campaigns, was very honest and enthusiastic people
cLeod; and local MPP and Ministry of pleased to see Conway recognized, who have good work ethics,
Resources and Forestry John Yakabus- “Sean dedicated everything to working want to be recognized for their
ki, “I am very honoured to have been on behalf of the residents of Renfrew efforts, and who care that they
selected for this distinction and I want County and Ontario. He is an historian are making a difference in the
to thank all those who supported my who relishes the history of our county places they work.
nomination.” and our province, and he uses his tal-
By joining our team, you will
Characteristically, Conway acknowl- ents to make both a better place.”
develop the cleaning and
edged his deep Ottawa and Madawaska Barry’s Bay’s former mayor, John Hil-
sanitation skills required to
Valley roots, “The citation announcing debrandt, who has known three gener-
give outstanding service to our
my selection to the Order made refer- ations of Conway’s family, was happy to
valued clients. In return, we
ence to the fact that I seemed to enjoy see another native son recognized for
making speeches. Growing up in Barry’s
reward outstanding service with
his contributions. Hildebrandt spoke of
Bay, I have to admit that I was greatly Conway’s “Valley common-sense,” his
opportunities to grow within
influenced by the very strong oratori- encyclopedic knowledge of the area, the company in supervisory and
cal tradition of the Ottawa Valley. As a and the fact that his position “never management roles. We may
youngster, I listened to very accom- went to his head.” be growing, but have not lost
plished public speakers like Joe Greene, “In my mind’s eye, I still see him sight as to how valuable our
Arthur Maloney, and Paul Martin Sr. speaking in the Legislature. Sean often employees are to the success of
who impressed upon me the power of found a way to drop the names of little our company!
the spoken word. My appointment to Valley towns like Barry’s Bay into his Please forward your resumé to:
the Order of Ontario is a recognition of eloquent speeches. That made us feel wecleanrenfrewcounty@gmail.com
the rich and colourful oral tradition of good and helped put us on the map.”
www.madvalleycurrent.com
4 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT
Exotic animals and by-laws in Maynooth
CHRISTINE WALKER
MAYNOOTH
This past summer, exotic animal own-
ers, Mark and Tammy Drysdale, tempo-
rarily housed most of their big cats with
a long-time big cat owner in Renfrew
County until the couple was ready to
bring them to their new home in May-
nooth in the municipality of Hastings
Highlands. That day came on Wednes-
day, December 2nd with the arrival of
the lions. The two tigers were sched-
uled to arrive on December 4.
The arrival of the Drysdales and their
big cats has shone a spotlight on mu-
nicipal laws — or the lack of — regard-
ing exotic animals. Approximately half
of Ontario’s 444 municipalities have
some type of exotic or restricted ani-
mal by-law. Having a by-law is not syn- The Drysdale lions in their Maynooth enclosure. PHOTO CHRISTINE WALKER
onymous with having a ban on exotic
animals; rather,these by-laws can be County are classified as upper tier mu- not legally be owned in Ontario.
developed to regulate the standard of nicipalities that provide services to the The Drysdales have had multiple vis-
care, containment and safety, as well as lower tier municipalities in their re- its from PAWS to oversee that provin-
to prohibit ownership. gions. Hastings County, of which Hast- cial regulations are being met and will
ings Highlands is part, does not have an be met in the case of animals that have
HASTINGS HIGHLANDS exotic animal by-law. not yet arrived. PAWS is empowered to
Presently, Hastings Highlands has no Yet, some of the county’s lower tier conduct inspections of properties and
exotic animal by-law. This means the municipalities do; for example, the animals to ensure welfare and safety
Drysdales are not breaking any laws by Town of Bancroft and Carlow-Mayo. are meeting provincial standards.
keeping big cats in Maynooth. At the Renfrew County does have an exotic BIG PLANS
Hastings Highlands Council meeting animal by-law prohibiting ownership.
on December 2, Rob Laidlaw, executive Ultimately, the Drysdales hope to open
However, the law has not prevented
director of Zoocheck Inc., said “…these a safari experience that will educate
the big cat owner — where the Drys-
issues are a lot easier to deal with up- people and allow them to observe the
dales’ big cats were temporarily living animals in their enclosures. “It’s all
front than retroactively.” — from having these animals in the
If Hastings Highlands creates an ex- about education,” says Mark Drysdale.
county for around a decade. This could This type of animal business, exotic an-
otic animal by-law prohibiting owner- be because the owner was grandfa-
ship now, the Drysdales will have a case imal education, falls under the Regula-
thered into the bylaw, the municipal- tion of Zoos Act which includes its own
for exemption (grandfathering) be- ity is unaware of the animals, or some
cause the animals were living in Hast- licencing, standards, and inspections.
other unknown reason. This Act passed its first reading, but
ings Highlands prior to a by-law com- The neighbouring municipality of
ing into effect. went no further in the process to be-
the Township of South Algonquin, come law, making municipalities and
The municipal government of Hast- which is a single tier municipality, also
ings Highlands has been criticized for PAWS the regulatory bodies.
has an exotic animal by-law. (A single Exotic animal ownership is a conten-
not creating an exotic animal by-law to
tier municipality is not a part of any tious issue that has caused passionate
address the big cats living in Maynooth.
other municipality and is responsible division in other communities. The ar-
In response to this, Mayor Vic Bodnar
for its own services.) eas of common ground are often the
said at the Council meeting on Decem-
In January 2020, the Ontario Govern- welfare of the community, animals,
ber 2nd, “It is important for municipali-
ment brought in the Provincial Animal and environment. Hastings Highlands
ties deliberating over exotic animals is-
Welfare Services Act (PAWS). PAWS does council has a difficult road ahead in
sues [to] do so in an informed way with
contain animal welfare regulations and choosing an effective path that will not
appropriate due diligence.”
enforcement pertaining to exotic ani- cause a deep divide in its community
OTHER MUNICIPALITIES COMPARED mals in Ontario. Currently, orcas and and will address as many of the con-
Both Hastings County and Renfrew pitbulls are the only animals that can- cerns from all sides.
www.madvalleycurrent.com
FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | 5
Experts issue fresh health warning
about wood burning stoves
ROGER PAUL
BARRY’S BAY
In December 2019 Health Canada pub-
lished warnings about the dangers of
emissions from wood burning stoves
under the title “Wood Smoke.” It em-
phasized that some groups are espe-
cially vulnerable, including people with
heart or lung problems and children
because their respiratory systems are
still developing, and they tend to be
more active and inhale more air.
Now, under a headline “Avoid using
wood burning stoves if possible, warn
health experts,” The Guardian news-
paper published details of a new report
which adds to the growing body of re-
search that reveals such pollution may
be damaging every organ in the body
with effects including heart and lung
disease, diabetes, dementia, reduced
intelligence and increased depression.
That report was issued last month by
the Asthma UK and British Lung Foun-
dation Partnership. Sarah MacFadyen,
Head of Policy at the Partnership, stat- Both indoor and outdoor pollution caused by wood burning stoves caused serious
ed, “We know that burning wood and health issues from breathing problems to an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes
coal released fine particulate matter and lung cancer. PHOTO: PEXELS.COM
(PM2.5) the most worrying form of air
pollution for human health. It is there- • Don’t burn particle board, treated home in Ontario is required to have
fore important to consider less pollut- wood, stained wood, painted wood, working smoke alarms.
ing options to heat your home or cook or wet wood.
with, especially if coal or wood is not • Homeowners must ensure that
your primary fuel source.” • Never start a fire in your wood stove smoke alarms are installed between
Dr. Nick Hopkinson, Medical Direc- with gasoline, kerosene, charcoal sleeping and living areas. They are
tor at the Partnership, said both indoor starter, or a propane torch. also required to maintain the smoke
and outdoor pollution caused by wood alarms in working order.
• Burn hot, bright fires.
burning stoves caused serious health • In rental accommodation, the
• Let the fire burn down to coals, then
issues from breathing problems to an obligation to install and maintain
rake them into a mound towards the
increased risk of heart attacks, strokes smoke alarms in operating condition
air inlet and stove door. Don’t spread
and lung cancer. falls to the landlord. Landlords
the coals out flat.
If you do use a wood burning stove must also provide smoke alarm
because you have no other choice, it is • Keep the doors of your stove closed maintenance information to the
recommended that you observe the fol- at all times unless you’re tending to occupant of each unit.
lowing procedures: the fire.
• It is an offence for any person
• Keep your flue open to allow plenty • Remove ashes from the stove on a to disable a smoke alarm. This
of oxygen in while using your stove. regular basis. requirement applies equally to
• Start your fire with clean newspaper Be sure to also follow MV Fire Depart- homeowners, landlords and tenants.
or dry kindling. ment’s tips for safety concerning smoke • Failure to comply with the smoke
alarms, as follows: alarm requirements of the Fire Code
• Only burn clean, dry wood that has
been properly seasoned. • Under the Ontario Fire Code, every can result in a minimum fine of $235.
www.madvalleycurrent.com
6 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT
Local resources during lockdown
The province may have ordered a lockdown until January 23, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have access to local businesses
and organizations. The Current has compiled the following alphabetical list of Madawaska Valley retailers and organizations,
grouped by community. Customers can contact each business that they are interested in to obtain hours of operation, physical
distancing protocol, curbside pickup, etc. Essential businesses (grocery stores, pharmacy) are also listed.
Note: this list is NOT exhaustive. You may email any updates to madvalleycurrent@gmail.com
BARRY’S BAY Greg Kelly Insurance Brokerage Ltd, Rutledge Heating, 613-639-5745
613-756-0066 (phone only) Stedmans, 613-756-2612
A.V. Locksmithing, 613-756-5128
Grumblin’ Granny’s, 613-756-3073 Subway, 613-756-9988
Access Work Service, Please email
info@accessworkservice.ca for house Hannah’s Chicken, 613-756-2074 Talk O’ The Town, 613-756-3676
cleaning, snow removal Helen Benn – Live. Life. Better, 613- The Beer Store, 613 756 2009
Afelskie Shoes, 613-756-2615 756-1156
The Grape Vine, 613-756-2992
Andrea’s Pet Salon, 613-602-6599 LCBO, 613-756-2022
Tim Hortons, 613-756-0008
Ash Grove In,n 613-756-7672 Lorraine’s Pharmasave,
Training & Learning Centre of
613-756-2013
Barry’s Bay Chiropractic, Dr. Colette Renfrew County, 613-628-1720
Szalay, 613-756-6000 Mad Outdoors, 613-756-2007
Travis Richards Office,
Barry’s Bay Dairy, closed for the Madawaska Coffee Co Café, 613-281-9419
winter 19578 Opeongo Line, 613-756-5656
Tyerman & Daughters Inc.,
Barry’s Bay Home Hardware, Madawaska Valley Food Bank, 8 Employment & Community Service,
613-756-2794, or email orders to Martin Street, Barry’s Bay. January 613-756-8079
bbcustomerservice@homehardware.ca Food Bank sessions will be Tuesday,
Ultramar, 613-756-4010
Jan. 12 and Tuesday, Jan. 26. Upon
Barry’s Bay Legion Branch 406, Welk Electric, 613-757-2955
arrival, NO EARLIER THAN 8:30 a.m.
reopens January 23, 2021, at 2pm Yantha Enterprises, 613-756-2542
clients will be asked to form a line
Barry’s Bay MacEwens, with their vehicles in the parking lot Yuill’s Valu-mart, 613-756-2023
613-756-3614 opposite the food bank. PLEASE
Barry’s Bay Metro, 613 756 7097 ENTER THE PARKING LOT (between
Barry’s Bay Shell, 613-633-7750 Afelskie’s and the Ear Depot) FROM COMBERMERE
DUNN STREET, NOT MARTIN
Barry’s Bay Outfitters, Bent Pizza Pie, 613-668-2368
STREET. As usual, volunteers
613-756-9009 CO Country Market, 613-756-1113
will direct traffic. NEW CLIENTS
Bay Coin Laundromat, WELCOME. Combermere Home Hardware,
613-210-0550 613-756-2436
Madawaska Valley Public Library
Bayberry Design, 613-756-2580 offers pickup service as of Jan. 4, Combermere Service Centre,
Baybud Cannabis, 613-756-1230 Monday to Friday, 3 pm to 6 pm and 613-756-5109
Bayroc Drywall, 613-633-2818 Saturdays 12 pm to 3 pm. Digital Heartwood Restaurant,
materials also available for loan. 613-756-9169
Benson Auto Parts, 613-756-0888
Library catalogue is online at www.
Cat Nap & Lazy Dog, 613-756-5328 madawaskavalleylibrary.ca. For Kodiak Construction,
Charlie D’s, 613 756-7162 assistance call 613-756-2000 or email 613-633-7630
Church Street Flowers, mvpl.programs@gmail.com Pilgrim Reader Book Store,
833-977-3377 McDougall Insurance, 613-756-2665
Cloud Nine Web Design, 613-756-3092 Quilters Curve, 613-756-6262
613-281-9999 NAPA Auto Parts, 613-756-2437 The Old School Café Laundry &
Co-operators Insurance, Natural Health Centre, Greenhouses, 613-756-9729
613-756-2667 613-756-6000
(phone only, leave message) Opeongo Seniors Centre, WILNO
Dairy Freez, 613-756-7116 temporarily closed, 613-756-0554
Easton Accounting and Tax Services, Ottawa Valley Physiotherapy & Wilno Tavern, temporarily closed
613-281-2510 Sports Medicine, 613-756-2226 during shutdown
Eugene’s Complete Auto Glass, 613- Pantry Savings, 613-756-3813 Wilno Craft Gallery, orders and
756-7009 enquiries, 613-756-3010
Queenswood National Real Estate,
Eve’s Escape Spa, 613-401-4595 613-756-2477 Need help with pickup? Call
The Delivery Guys, 613-602-5393
Gift It Gray, TEXT orders/enquiries to RE/MAX Country Classics,
613-227-1717 613-756-6789
www.madvalleycurrent.com
FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | 7
Meet Barry’s Bay Cottages new owners
SAMANTHA LLOYD Luiza watched their business vanish.
MADAWASKA VALLEY Luiza had had such fun decorating
their six winterized cottages for the holi-
Meet Luiza and Ferdinand Kaci of Barry’s days. “We were fully booked from the
Bay Cottages Resort on Carson Lake. week before Christmas well into January
Going from commuting on the Toronto and I was so looking forward to welcom-
subway every day to buying a snow- ing our guests.” She shrugged off her dis-
plow-ready ATV, it would be an under- appointment with a smile, saying, “It’s
statement to say their life has changed a better to be safe and follow the rules.”
lot in the past few months. When every- “We feel very lucky,” said Fred. Luiza
thing shut down because of COVID-19 continued, “The resort is great as it is
last March, Luiza and Fred’s work came to now but we would like to make it more
a grinding halt. They realized it was time beautiful so that our guests think of it
for a big change — but what? “We both as a paradise…. When our guests leave
love nature and being outside,” said Fred. Fred and Luiza Kaci of Barry’s Bay
Cottages Resort. our resort feeling relaxed and happy,
“We started looking at ideas that gave us that’s when we’re most satisfied.”
freedom to be in nature all the time.” Lu-
iza continued, “All I kept thinking about
Advertising helps us provide
was getting to the cottage, growing my
The Current to readers at no cost.
garden, and waking up early to the calm-
ness of the lake with my coffee.” To advertise please call 613-639-1524.
Back in their native Albania, Luiza and
The Current is published here in the Valley by residents Roger and Danielle Paul
Fred had had the pleasure of running through MadValley Media, and is your source for bold, bracing and balanced local
a local food shop together. Customer coverage of issues that matter most to Valley residents. Since launching in January
service is innate to both of them, but 2018, the publishers have fulfilled their promise to make The Current available at no
Luiza’s skills truly shine in that type of cost to readers, relying on the support of advertisers and sponsors.
role. “I love making someone smile.” In THE CURRENT WELCOMES LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Toronto, Luiza worked various customer Please address letters to lettersmadvalleycurrent@gmail.com or The Madawaska Valley
service jobs while going to school and Current, PO Box 1097, Barry’s Bay, ON K0J 1B0. Please include your first and last name,
then worked for twelve years as a dental address and phone number for verification. Only your name and municipality appears
assistant. Fred worked in construction in print. Online, readers can comment using the “Reply.”
for the first few years, then opened his CODE OF ETHICS
own contracting business. The Current observes the journalistic ethics recommended by the Canadian
They found Barry’s Bay Cottages Re- Association of Journalists; it follows the principles of accuracy, fairness, independence,
sort, with 13 private, full-service cot- transparency, promises to sources, diversity, and accountability. As a member of the
tages surrounded by towering pines National NewsMedia Council, complaints about The Current
can be submitted for mediation or adjudication to NNC.
and nestled beside Carson Lake. Luiza
said, “We had been looking for a long The Current is published by MadValley Media, Barry’s Bay,
time but we knew it was the right place. Ontario K0J 1B0. Opinions and information published in The Current, in whatever
It felt like home,” Luiza says. form, do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Current. All the writing, artwork,
and photographs published in The Current are the copyright of the author or artist, or
The purchase went through in No-
The Current in the case where no author is specified. The Madawaska Valley Current,
vember and with help from the previ- PO Box 1097, Barry’s Bay, Ontario K0J 1B0 613-639-1524, madvalleycurrent@gmail.
ous owners and their family members, com, www.madvalleycurrent.com.
the Kacis’ new business venture was up
facebook.com/madvalleycurrent twitter.com/mvalleycurrent
and running almost immediately. Fred’s
background in construction helped instagram.com/madvalleycurrent ca.linkedin.com/company/the-madawaska-valley-current
them make cosmetic improvements to PERMITTED USE: You may display, download or print the information on the site for your own inter-
the cottages. They have explored a bit, nal and non-commercial purposes provided that you observe all copyright and other propriety notices
contained on such information. You may not, however, use, display, distribute, modify or transmit any
met their lakeside neighbours and have information including any text, images, audio or video for commercial or public purposes without the
been made to feel welcome in Barry’s express prior written permission of its owner. You must not transfer the information to any other person
unless you give them notice of, and they agree to accept, those same obligations.
Bay. Fred says, “People are very friendly
Printed by Bayberry Design, Barry’s Bay, Ontario
and everyone offers to help you.”
But while this pandemic year has giv- EDITOR’S NOTE: This downloadable version of The Current is available free from
en them a precious new lakeside begin- our website. Please consider printing copies for any friends and family without in-
ternet, especially those in self-isolation that you may be helping.
ning, it has also been cruel. When the
Check online for COVID-19 related announcements and all the need-to-know in-
December lockdown was announced formation for Valley residents at: madvalleycurrent.com
for the second time in one year Fred and
www.madvalleycurrent.com
8 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT
Reaping what you sow
BRENDA STRACK
MADAWASKA VALLEY
When a farmer plants a crop, he usually
does so expecting an abundant harvest
in due course. But in order to achieve
that harvest, a number of things need
to be tended to. First and foremost,
the ground requires preparation, so
the farmer plows the land in order to
overturn soil, breaking it into smaller
masses, incorporating any plant resi-
due from the previous season and then
adding fertilizer. The farmer knows that
in order to grow crops successfully, he
needs to start with a healthy ground in
which to plant the seed.
PHOTO: KUOW.ORG
But suppose that the farmer goes to
pick up the necessary products for the
season and is told that, presently, the
only fertilizer on the market is one that
requires daily application. Though he
has never been aware of such a process,
APPLY THIS SCENARIO TO ing down our immune systems and
he trusts the direction of the supplier and
EVERYDAY LIFE causing debilitating sickness and dis-
complies with the unfamiliar procedure.
Our minds can be likened to fertile ease in our bodies.
He plants his crop and begins the
ground. Regardless of what we plant, We may be experiencing symptoms
process of daily fertilization. It isn’t long
which is always a choice, what we feed like mood swings, anxiety, the inabil-
before he notices weeds beginning to
it with daily determines what is pro- ity to feel love toward others, fatigue,
appear, thick and aggressive weeds. In
duced. withdrawal from family and friends, in-
a short span of time, they overtake the
We are in control of what we watch trusive thoughts — just to name a few
entire plantation, leaving little space
and listen to. When we notice that our — and never understand what is trig-
and nourishment for the crop seed to
lives are being negatively affected in gering them.
take root.
any way, we, like the farmer in the fic- We may begin to find it difficult to
He doesn’t understand what is hap-
tional scenario, can make a decision to look after ourselves, make meals or get
pening but realizes that, in order to save
remove those things up in the morning. There can be times
his crop, immediate action is required.
Positive influences build up and when we may experience dissocia-
After retracing his steps, he comes to
encourage us to get through life with tion. This means that we can feel dis-
the conclusion that the only thing that
confidence. They promote well being, connected from our bodies. We watch
he has done differently from years past
contentment and assurance that, al- things happen around us but are un-
related to the fertilization method. Al-
though problems may arise, we can feel able to feel, we may not have a sense
though he had been directed by the
optimistic about getting through them. of who we are or recall memories from
supplier to follow a specific protocol,
Negative influences, on the other our past.
he chooses to follow his intuition and
hand, deplete us of the quality of life Fear also affects our ability to learn.
do some investigating prior to continu-
that we deserve. They create negative When our brain is in hyper arousal
ing the routine. He calls the supplier
thoughts, emotional distress and im- mode, it distorts the storage of sensory
and immediately discovers that the fer-
pact how we view the world around us. input and the retrieval of information.
tilizer has been accidentally exposed to,
When we are faced with things that pose Long term exposure to anxiety trig-
and combined with, a weed that has the
a threat, real or imagined, it is common gered by fear can cause our brain to
power to destroy everything around it.
to lose sight of all logic. We begin to ex- release stress hormones on a regular
Of course he makes the decision to
perience unexplained symptoms in our basis and prevent our bodies from re-
cease applying the product and before
body which can further lead to feeling turning to normal functioning. This
long, the weeds begin to dry up and are
overwhelmed and out of control. causes our immune systems to weaken
eventually eradicated. The crop seed
Chronic fear has the ability to liter- and make us vulnerable to viral infec-
is now provided with what it requires
ally take over our minds, preventing us tions and other physical and mental
to thrive and flourish and produce an
from making rational decisions, break- health problems. Continued on page 9 —
abundant harvest.
www.madvalleycurrent.com
FRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | 9
HERITAGE PHOTO
Aerial view/H.Oakman
Barry’s Bay, bird’s eye view, 1966.
BOB CORRIGAN | BARRY’S BAY
The photo above is from a postcard that tary School (no longer there) are very Brewers’ Retail Store in the 1960s to fly
was mailed from Barry’s Bay on June visible and one can see Drohan Lake over every town that had a beer store
11, 1966 by a woman who was camping near the top of the picture. Notice that and take a picture. The one of Barry’s
just outside of Barry’s Bay (probably in there is no Sand Hill residential area at Bay can be seen at the Train Station
the Carson Lake / Trout Lake area) and this point in time. Also missing is the where it is on display on the wall.
sent to another woman in Centralia, Legion which had not yet been built. Heritage Photo: If you are interested in
Ontario. Although this particular post- The aerial photograph was taken by having a picture and story featured in The
card was sent in 1966, the photograph H.R. (Harry) Oakman of Peterborough. Madawaska Valley Current, please submit
was probably taken in an earlier year. Not only had Oakman founded the Peter- the information to Bob Corrigan at mad-
In the picture, Dunn Street is the borough Municipal Airport but he owned valleycurrent@gmail.com (subject Heri-
most noticeable street with Bay Street the Peterborough Post Card Company, of tage Photos) or mail your photo to Bob c/o
parallel to it on the right. Both St. Hed- which this postcard is one sample. The Current at PO Box 1097, Barry’s Bay
wig’s Church and St. Joseph’s Elemen- Oakman was commissioned by the K0J 1B0 (originals will be returned).
LIMIT YOUR EXPOSURE on the negative. When we expose our- that it warns us of potential threats to
Looking back to the farmer, we no- selves to this type of content regularly, our physical and emotional safety and
tice that the products purchased from it has an impact on us — a negative prepares our bodies to take flight; how-
the supplier were infested with weeds. impact — especially when a personal ever, as previously mentioned, it can be
Through daily application, they were connection exists, such as during the harmful when our bodies begin to live
provided with the nourishment re- current pandemic. in this state for long periods of time.
quired to help them grow to the extent We tell ourselves that we need to stay If you find that you are experiencing
that they were able to overpower every- informed, yet in doing so, our stress symptoms that may be stemming from
thing around the fertilizer. levels begin to elevate the moment fear, begin setting boundaries. Limit
To a certain degree, this is what we touch that remote. We know what’s your exposure to who and what might
happens to us when we listen to the coming, yet we allow ourselves to hear be contributing to it.
news. A large percentage of the infor- it again and again. Discontinue fertilization and eradi-
mation covered by the media focuses Fear is a normal emotion in the sense cate the weeds!
www.madvalleycurrent.com
10 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT
Valley medical chief reviews
local pandemic experience
Family Dining JASON MALINOWSKI tute for seeing patients in person; for
Historic Polish Pub MADAWASKA VALLEY example, when I need to physically ex-
17589 Hwy 60 • Wilno, ON amine them or perform a procedure. So
wilnotavern.com We asked Dr. Jason Malinowski, Chief there’s a new wrinkle in the triaging of
613-756-2029 of Staff at St. Francis Memorial Hospital appointments. It is not only “How soon
(SFMH), as well as Clinical Lead Physi- does this person need to be seen?” but
cian for the Madawaska Valley Family also “Can I do this assessment remote-
Health Team (MVFHT), to discuss the ly?” That extra triage step represented
impact of COVID-19 on health care in a learning curve for doctors and office
the Valley and share any good news that staff alike. Interestingly, I find that in
may have come out of this pandemic. some cases access to specialist or ter-
He has provided the following review of tiary care has actually improved, in that
the challenges and improvements to lo- specialists are assessing patients more
cal health care through 2020. quickly. Many of the first assessments
STRAINS ON HEALTHCARE WORKERS are done remotely — and the special-
ists are arranging tests or procedures
We faced a lot of challenges, knowing
in a much more deliberate and efficient
what was happening in China, Italy
way for follow-up visits.
and New York with healthcare workers
getting sick and dying while caring for VIRTUAL CARE
their patients. Wearing my leadership The increase in virtual appointments
hat, we had to make a lot of important has usually been found to be quite sat-
decisions regarding patient flow, visi- isfactory for patients, as we know that
tor policies, and personal protective transportation and family issues can
THIS CAN BE equipment (PPE) – decisions made be a significant barrier to care here in
YOUR AD with insufficient, rapidly changing,
and often conflicting information.
The stress of not knowing how long
the Valley. Not having to arrange a ride,
or child care, or respite care for an ill
Call 613.639.1524 spouse for someone’s appointment
or email madvalleycurrent@gmail.com this was going to last, and whether we has been a very welcome change for a
Let The Current help grow your business. would have enough PPE to safely care lot of people. But some patients have
for patients was terrible. All the deci- struggled with not being able to “see”
sions at the tables I was at, were made their doctor in as much of a timely way
with patient and staff safety as a prime as they have been used to. We feel that
consideration. As family physicians, we frustration too, and I would ask that ev-
felt the stress (and still do) of not be- eryone be “patient” as we work out all
ing able to care for our patients as we these issues with flow and access, given
did before. We knew that some patients the new reality.
were going to forego care and possibly
have bad outcomes related to waiting MENTAL WELLNESS
out the pandemic. We certainly can’t forget the implica-
tions that the pandemic has had on
LONG-LASTING IMPLICATIONS everyone’s mental health. We’re social
This past year has certainly driven a lot animals, and being told to Socially
of innovation in health care. As fam- Distance has made depression, lone-
ily physicians, we realized that there liness, and other mental health issues
is a certain proportion of patient en- worse, and more prevalent. We are
counters that do not require a physical working with patients on that front as
visit to the clinic to be effective – that well, and that will take a long time to
telephone or video visits would suf- address. We all just want to get togeth-
fice in some cases. The government er with family and friends, dance, and
did recognize that and allowed us to be play sports, and have dinners. 2020
remunerated for phone visits, which has been a social hell.
they had not allowed previously. I hope
they continue with that. Having said SILVER LININGS
that, in some cases there is no substi- During this pandemic one of the big
www.madvalleycurrent.comFRIDAY JANUARY 8, 2021 | 11
benefits is that we have been able to re-
ally strengthen our partnerships, and
question our long-standing views and
processes in health care. Now, we are
meeting regularly with the Community
Paramedic team. They have done an
amazing job of being our mobile eyes,
ears, and needles when patients have
needed care that we were not able to
deliver in person. In conjun ction with
them, the Renfrew County Virtual Tri-
EmployerOne Survey
age and Assessment Centre (RCVTAC)
program has been an excellent addition
to the care options for patients who do
not have access to a / their family doc-
tor. As an example, when I look at the
ER department data, visits solely for
Open Until
medication renewals have dropped off
dramatically since the spring. New ca-
pacity at RCVTAC, increased access to
February 26,
the MVFHT, and the relaxation of phar-
macists’ restrictions in extending pre-
scriptions has played a big part in that.
BUILDING THE PLANE AS YOU FLY
Internally at SFMH, staff have been in-
credibly resilient and innovative in the
face of rapid change and uncertainly.
2021!
It really is like the expression “build-
www.employeronesurvey.com
ing the plane as you fly.” That phrase
captures the “feelings of risk and un-
certainty that accompany designing
innovations and testing them in real This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada
time with actual participants, all while and the Government of Ontario
being responsible for keeping existing
operations running.” There’s no how-to
manual – and the rules are constantly Follow us on LIBRARY SERVICES DURING CLOSURE
changing! For instance, having to recre-
ate a whole separate respiratory zone
Facebook The Library will be closed until the end of January.
for screen-positive patients was an ex- Pickup service Monday to Friday 3 pm to 6 pm
ercise in building a whole new ER from and Saturdays 12 noon to 3 pm.
scratch. Every department contributed The Library catalogue is online at
to its creation, weighing in with their
suggestions and cautions. www.madawaskavalleylibrary.ca
You can place a hold on an item from this
BRIDGING GAPS BETWEEN SILOS
We have been able to strengthen our site by logging into your account or by
ties to other partners as well, convening phone or email. Once arrangements have
an initially weekly meeting with lead- been made, items will be packaged with
ers from the hospital, hospice, MVFHT,
your name and will be ready for pickup
home support, pharmacy, long-term
care, paramedic and emergency ser- just inside the front door of the library
vices, and retirement home sectors. We during designated times. We also offer
Madawaska Valley digital materials: e-books, audiobooks,
have been able to streamline processes,
break down some barriers to care, and
online magazines. Please call or email for
share best practices and success sto-
ries. This part has been invaluable to
PUBLIC LIBRARY assistance. No book donations accepted.
me, as I have a hand in all those sectors
19474 Opeongo Line, Barry’s Bay • mvpl.programs@gmail.com • 613-756-2000
in some way.
www.madvalleycurrent.com12 | MADAWASKA VALLEY CURRENT
A lot to be thankful for in the Valley
DANIELLE AND ROGER PAUL clubs helped make Canada Day, Hallow- designers, webmasters, social media
MADAWASKA VALLEY een and the Christmas season as joyous managers and all who help with print
as possible for local kids of all ages. distribution.
In its last New Year message, The Cur- The Current experienced quite a few Special thanks to our advertisers
rent reviewed some of the highs and changes this past year. Being a primar- without whose support we could not
lows of the previous year. Because of the ily online news source, we began with continue to provide The Current as a
pandemic, unfortunately 2020 brought “business as usual” but we had to adapt free news source in the community.
more of the latter than the former, so by March as more municipalities began They understand that we operate as a
this time we will avoid depressing our meeting online or by teleconference. non-profit. We are grateful to advertis-
readers with such a review. We temporarily suspended distribu- ers who joined us during the year al-
Instead, we would like to highlight tion of “communally-read” waiting though we must confess to being dis-
the exceptional service that local resi- room copies of The Current during appointed at the low number of BIA
dents have been fortunate to receive shutdowns, and thank our distribution members who support us with their
which undoubtedly has helped keep us partners for helping us to promote our advertising. Hopefully this will change
here in the Madawaska Valley relatively website address. Our email newslet- as they learn of the increased online
unscathed by COVID-19. ter, published less frequently than we readership of The Current which now
Special mention should go, of course, would have liked due to the pandemic, averages in excess of 44,000 page views
to our local healthcare services that now reaches 1,100 subscribers. monthly.
continue to demonstrate their dedi- As always we are extremely grate- Finally, a heartfelt thank you to our
cation and ingenuity, with flourishing ful to our talented contributors who readers as The Current celebrates its
community paramedicine and the very provide content for The Current: the third birthday this month.
successful Renfrew County Virtual Tri- writers, photographers, illustrators, A happy and healthy 2021 to you all!
age & Assessment Centre (RC VTAC).
Hopefully you all wrote to the Premier
and Minister of Health to tell them we
want to keep RC VTAC even after the Creative individuals invited
to join Pop Up Art Project
pandemic is over. The Madawaska Val-
ley Family Health Team connected
with more unattached patients. Physi-
cians and other healthcare profession- ANYA GANSTERER February 8, 2021 to submit an applica-
als offered remote appointments and RENFREW COUNTY tion. And remember, you don’t have to
changed in-office processes. consider yourself an artist to make art-
Despite far from perfect internet As part of the broader Pop Up Art proj- work for a Pop Up Art exhibition. You
connections here in rural Renfrew ect, which runs until 2023, Ottawa Val- may feel more like a maker or crafter
County, education professionals, stu- ley Creative Arts (OV-CAOS) is now or creative person; this exhibition is for
dents and their parents coped with accepting submissions for the Good you too.
changes including online lessons dur- Ancestor Exhibition. This exhibit will For more information, visit the Ot-
ing COVID-19 closures. explore our personal connections to tawa Valley Creative Arts website at
Of course, Valley people don’t just the past — what we would ask our an- ov-caos.org or email to arrange a time
adapt – they step up, too! Thanks to the cestors, if we could, and what we would for a telephone conversation: anya@ov-
volunteer cohort that helped keep life tell our descendants. Artists have until caos.org
as normal as possible during these ab-
normal times for their neighbours who CALL FOR PROPOSALS
were vulnerable, elderly, unemployed, DEADLINE FEB. 8
short of food, without transport, or
whatever their needs.
And thanks to our frontline workers
who continue to put themselves at risk
to ensure that our everyday necessities
are available through shutdowns and
varying levels of restrictions.
Also in the Valley tradition of helping
our neighbours, the Madawaska Valley
Food Bank stayed in good shape despite
increased demand, and many individu-
als, non-profit organizations and service
www.madvalleycurrent.comYou can also read
