BREACHES

            Cornwall, ON- Kevin Bovin, 41 of Cornwall was arrested on May 18^th, 2012. He was bound by a recognizance with the condition to report for scheduled meetings. He was also bound by a Probation Order with the condition to keep the peace and be of good behaviour. It is alleged that he failed to attend two scheduled meetings. He was charged with 2 counts of breach of Recognizance and breach of Probation Order. He was held in custody until court the following day.

Cornwall, ON- A 15-year-old Cornwall youth was arrested on May 18^th, 2012. The youth was bound by a Recognizance with the condition to reside at a certain address, abide by the rules of that residence and not be away from my residence between the hours of 9 pm and 6 am. It is alleged that the youth failed to follow house rules and police were contacted. The youth was charged with 3 counts of breach of Recognizance and held in custody until court the following day. The youth’s name was not released as per provision under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Cornwall, ON- A 16-year-old and a 17-year-old both of Cornwall were arrested on May 19^th, 2012. They were both bound by Probation Orders with the relevant conditions of a curfew and to keep the peace and be of good behaviour. It is alleged that on May 19^th, 2012 shortly after 1:00 a.m. they were located by a member of the Cornwall Community Police Service Patrol Division. They were charged with 2 counts of breach of Probation Order. They were both released to adults to appear in court on May 31^st, 2012. Their names were not released as per provision under the youth Criminal Justice Act.

Cornwall, ON- a 26-year-old Cornwall man was arrested on May 20^th, 2012. He was bound by an Undertaking with the relevant conditions to keep the peace and be of good behaviour, not to attend a certain address and not to communicate directly or indirectly with several people. He was also bound by a Probation Order with the relevant condition to keep the peace and be of good behaviour. It is alleged that on May 18^th, 2012 he contacted the said people by telephone and proceeded to walk by their address on May 19^th, 2012. Police were contacted and an investigation followed. He was charged with 3 counts of breach of Undertaking and breach of Probation Order. He was held in custody until court the following day. His name was not released as it may identify the victims in this incident.

            Cornwall, ON- Noel Longchamps, 24 of Cornwall was arrested on May 21^st, 2012. He was bound by a Probation Order with the condition of to abstain from the purchase, possession of alcohol and other substance and to keep the peace and be of good behaviour. It is alleged that on May 21^st, 2012, he was found intoxicated by members of the Cornwall Community Police Service Patrol Division. He was charged with 2 counts of Breach of Probation Order and released to appear in court on June 5^th, 2012.

DOMESTIC ASSAULT, RESIST ARREST & BREACH

Cornwall, ON- A 37-year-old Cornwall man was arrested on May 19^th, 2012. He was bound by a Probation Order with the relevant condition to keep the peace and be of good behaviour. It is alleged that on May 19^th, 2012 he got into an altercation with his 44-year-old girlfriend when he assaulted her. The victim did not require medical treatment. Police were contacted and an investigation followed. Upon his arrest he became actively resistant with police. He was charged with Domestic Assault, Resist Arrest and breach of Probation Order. He was held in custody until court the following day. His name was not released as it would identify the victim.

DOMESTIC BREACHES, WEAPONS DANGEROUS & ASSAULT POLICE

            Cornwall, ON- A 25-year-old Cornwall man was arrested on May 19^th, 2012. He was bound by an Undertaking with the conditions to abstain from the consumption of alcohol or other intoxicating substances, keep the peace and be of good behaviour and to abstain from communicating directly or indirectly with his 27-year-old ex-girlfriend or from going within 50 meters of a certian address. It is alleged that on May 19th, 2012 he attended his ex-girlfriend residence while carrying a pellet gun. Police were contacte and an investigation followed. The male was found consuming alcohol and upon his arrest assaulted a police officer. The police officer was not injured. The male was charged with 3 counts of Domestic Breaches, Assault Police and Possess Weapon Dangerous purposes. He was held in custody until court the following day. His name was not released as it would identify the victim.

WARRANT

            Cornwall, ON- Harlene Hart, 50 of Newington was arrested on May 20th, 2012 on three outstanding warrants. It is alleged that warrants were issued on April 12th, 2012 after she uttered threats and breached her peace bond as well as failed to attend court. It is was also alleged that she failed to attend for fingerprints on May 11th, 2012 and a warrant was issued. She was released to appear in court on June 7th, 2012.

POSSESSION OF PROPERTY OBTAINED BY CRIME & BREACHES

            Cornwall, ON- Two Cornwall males were arrested on May 20th, 2012. They were found by a member of the Cornwall Community Police Service Patrol Division to be in possession of stolen cooper wire from a local business.

Marc Dumont, 47 was bound by an Undertaking with the conditions of not associate with anyone known to have a criminal record, not associate with anyone known to use and/or deal in drugs, not to possess, purchase, consume drugs except in accordance with a medical prescription and keep the peace and be of good behaviour. It is alleged that he was found to be in possession of a controlled substance believed to be hashish and stolen cooper wire. He was charged with 4 counts of breach of Undertaking, Possession of a controlled substance and Possession of Property obtained by crime Over $5000.00. He was released to appear in court on July 17^th, 2012.

Calvin Ceasor, 24 was bound by a Probation Order with the condition of keep the peace and be of good behaviour. It is alleged that he was found in possession of stolen cooper wire. He was charged with breach of Probation Order and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000.00. He was released to appear in court on July 17^th, 2012.

BREAK & ENTER

Cornwall, ON- The Cornwall Community Police Service is investigating a break and enter that occurred between May 18^th and May 19th, 2012 at an Eleventh Street East residence. It is alleged that the suspect(s) gained entry by kicking in the back door and removed a 50” LG Television, a Panasonic satellite radio clock, white gold wedding band with diamonds, Gold Timex watch, PS3 game console and a dozen games. If you have any information regarding this break and enter, please contact the Service at 613-932-2110 or Crime Stoppers at 613-937-8477.

Cornwall, ON- The Cornwall Community Police Service is investigating a break and enter that occurred on May 19^th, 2012 at a Notre Dame Street residence. It is alleged that the suspect(s) gained entry by prying open a rear door and proceeded to ransack the residence. No property was reported stolen. If you have any information regarding this break and enter, please contact the Service at 613-932-2110 or Crime Stoppers at 613-937-8477.

Cornwall, ON- The Cornwall Community Police Service is investigating a break and enter that occurred on May 20^th, 2012 at a Guy Street facility. It is alleged that the suspect(s) gained entry by prying open a door and removed several meat items and soft drinks.  . If you have any information regarding this break and enter, please contact the Service at 613-932-2110 or Crime Stoppers at 613-937-8477.

Cornwall, ON- The Cornwall Community Police Service is investigating a break and enter that occurred on May 20^th , 2012 at a Water Street residence. It is alleged that the suspect(s) gained entry by an unlocked rear door and removed 40” Toshiba LCD television. If you have any information regarding this break and enter, please contact the Service at 613-932-2110 or Crime Stoppers at 613-937-8477.

THEFT

            Cornwall, ON- A 25-year-old Cornwall female was arrested on May 20^th, 2012. It is alleged that on May 13^th, 2012 she stolen her mother’s credit card and withdrew money. Police were contacted and an investigation followed. She was charged with Theft under $5000.00 and Theft of Credit Card. She was released to appear in court on June 26^th, 2012. Her name was not released as it would identify the victim.

ASSAULT & BREACHES

            Cornwall, ON- Marcel Gauvreau, 41 of Cornwall was arrested on May 20^th, 2012. He is bound by a Probation Order with relevant conditions to keep the peace and be of good behaviour and not to consume or possess alcohol. It is alleged that on May 15^th, 2012 while intoxicated, he got into an altercation with a 19-year-old acquaintance when he assaulted him. The victim did not require medical treatment. He was charged with assault and 2 counts of Breach of Probation Order. H ewas released to appear in court on June 17^th, 2012.

THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE

            Cornwall, ON- The Cornwall Community Police Service is investigating the theft of a 2002 Dodge Caravan, green in colour, that occurred on May 17^th, 2012 from a Lawrence Street residence. If you have any information regarding this theft, please contact the Service at 613-932-2110 or Crime Stoppers at 613-937-8477.

DOMESTIC BREACHES

            Cornwall, ON- A 34-year-old Cornwall female was arrested on May 21^st, 2012. She was bound by a Recognizance with the condition of not to associate or communicate directly or indirectly with her 38-year-old ex-common-law husband and not to attend his residence. It is alleged that on May 20^th, 2012 she attended his residence and remained. An altercation ensued and police were contacted. She was charged with 2 counts of breach of Recognizance and held in custody until court the following day.

THREATS & BREACH

            Cornwall, ON- Shane Flowers, 30 of Cornwall was arrested on May 21^st, 2012. He was bound by a Probation Order with the condition of keep the peace and be of good behaviour.. It is alleged that on May a9th, 2012 he contacted a 33-year-old friend and uttered a death threat. Police were contacted and an investigation followed. He was charged with Utter Death Threat and breach of Probation Order. He was held in custody until court the following day.

THEFT

            Cornwall, ON- Tracy Ann Pilon, 42 of Cornwall was arrested on May 17^th, 2012. It is alleged that she attended a Ninth Street East store and removed property without making any attempts to pay for the items. She was detained by the store’s Lost Prevention Officer and turned over to a member of the Cornwall Community Police Service Patrol Division. She was charged with Theft under $5000.00 and released to appear in court on June 26^th, 2012.

ROBBERY AND BREACHES

            Cornwall, ON- A 50-year-old Cornwall man was arrested on May 17^th, 2012. He was bound by a Recognizance with the conditions of to not attend at his father’s residence and to keep the peace and be of good behaviour. He was also bound by a second Recognizance with the conditions to reside at a certain address, not to associate directly or indirectly with his 77-year-old father, not to attend his residence and Keep the Peace and be of Good Behaviour. It is alleged that on May 13^th and 15^th,  2012 he attended his father’s residence therefore breaching his conditions. It is also alleged that on May 16^th, 2012 he attended his father’s residence by forcing his way in and demanded money from his father. The victim was not physically injured during the incident. Police were contacted and an investigation followed. He was charged with Robbery and 7 counts of Breach of Recognizance. He was held in custody until court the following day. His name was not released as it would identify the victim.

DOMESTIC MISCHIEF, UNLWAWFULLY IN DWELLING & BREACHES

Cornwall, ON- A 26-year-old Cornwall man was arrested on May 17^th, 2012. He was bound by Probation Orders with the conditions of keep the peace and be of good behaviour and no contact with anyone known to him to have a Criminal record. It is alleged that on May 13^th, 2012 he attended his 25-year-old ex-girlfriend’s residence and got into an altercation with her when he damaged property. Police were contacted and an investigation followed. He was charged with Domestic Mischief, Unl counts of breach of Probation Order. He was held in custody until court the following day. His name was not released as it may identify the victim.

DRUG SEARCH WARRANT

            Cornwall, ON- Members of the Cornwall Community Police Service Street Crime Unit and the O.P.P. Drug Enforcement Section executed a drug search warrant at approximately 10:00 a.m. on May 17^th, 2012 at a Easton Avenue residence and a Marguerite D’Youville Street residence. As a result of the investigation one man was arrested and charged with 7 drug and 5 criminal code related offences when he was found to be in possession of controlled substances. Police seized a quantity of substance believed to be cocaine, marijuana and several kinds prescription pills. The total value of seized drugs and property is estimated at $3,500.00.

Christopher Smith, 33 of Cornwall was bound by an Undertaking with the condition not to possess cell phone & not to associate with anyone having a criminal record. He was also bound by a Probation Order with the conditions to Keep the peace and be of good behavior and Not to possess any drugs. He was charged with 3 counts of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Oxycodone, Hydromorphone and Lorazepam), 4 counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance being, Oxycodone, Hydromorphone, Marijuana and Cocaine, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime, 2 counts of Breach of Undertaking and 2 counts of Breach of Probation Order. He was held in custody until court the following day.

FAIL TO APPEAR

            Cornwall, ON- Sylvain Pilon, 24 of Cornwall was arrested on May 16^th, 2012. It is alleged that he failed to appear for fingerprints on April 11^th, 2012. He was charged with Fail to appear of fingerprints and released to appear in court on June 26^th, 2012.

DOMESTIC MISCHIEF & ASSAULT POLICE

            Cornwall, ON- A 24-year-old Cornwall man was arrested on May 17^th, 2012. He was bound by a Probation Order with the conditions to keep the peace and be of good behaviour and notify the court or the probation officer in advance of any change of name or address. It is alleged that early May 17^th, 2012 he got into an altercation with his 21-year-old girlfriend when he caused damaged to property. Police were contacted and an investigation followed. Upon his arrest, he assaulted a member of the Cornwall Community Police Service Patrol Division. The officer was not injured. He was charged with Domestic Mischief, Assault Police and 2 counts of Breach of Probation Order. He was held in custody until court later that day. His name was not released as it would identify the victim in this incident.

THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE

            Cornwall, ON- The Cornwall Community Police Service is investigating the theft of a 2000 Honda Accord, black in colour, that occurred on May 16^th, 2012 from a Andre Street residence. If you have any information regarding this theft, please contact the Service at 613-932-2110 or Crime Stoppers at 613-937-8477.

CFN – The Glass Blowing Place & Chillax Café had its grand opening Saturday, 19 May and Liberal MPP (Glengarry–Prescott–Russell) Grant Crack was there to cut the ribbon, glass ribbon that is.

Here you can see the process that the glass blowers went through to get this glass ribbon.

In the front of the glass blowing studio is a café and retail store where you can purchase some of the wonderful glass art produced there as well as other art produced by local artists. You can come in and have a cup of fresh roasted coffee, study the glass artistry and even observe the glass blowers at work. Courses in glass blowing are available on site if you want to try your hand at handling molten glass.

In the picture below you can see Chris Van Zanten, Heinz Kaswurm (a non-glass blowing partner), MPP Grant Crack, Eric Covington, Gian Paolo BAstianello and David Paterson hamming it up for the camera.

More information about The Glass Blowing Place can be found on their web site:

www.glassblowingplace.com

CFN

Plant the Right Tree in the Right Place.  When planting new trees, make sure to match the species of tree you choose to the light, soil and space conditions of your yard.  Be sure to “look up” so you don’t plant under hydro wires and always call before you dig!  Trees provide us with the benefit of shade, cover, oxygen, beauty and sometimes food.  Consider planting a tree that will put food on your table and provide sustenance for our local wildlife.

Water Regularly.  Both newly planted and mature trees need regular watering.  Each week, feel the soil near the base of your tree.  If dry, give it a long, slow soak.  A good time to do this is first thing in the morning.

Mulch Regularly.  Mulch (woodchips, leaves, compost) retains moisture, provides nutrients, prevents soil compaction, and creates a protective space around your tree.  Spread mulch three inches deep around the base of your tree, ensuring the mulch does not touch the trunk of the tree as this causes decay.

Prevent Damage.  Avoid digging near trees or compacting soil which can cause root damage.  Insure you do not damage the bark at the base of the tree with your weed whacker.  Ninety per cent of a tree’s roots are located in the top two feet of soil and can extend up to three times the width of the canopy. Use organic alternatives to fertilizers and pesticides.  Remove stakes anchoring your newly planted trees after one year.

Prune Properly.  Educate yourself on proper tree pruning.  Your local plant nursery is a great source of information.  Hire a certified arborist and investigate their reputation by speaking with previous clients.

The Urban Forest Stewardship Network (www.ufsn.ca) is an online resource for organizations, community groups and individuals working on urban forest initiatives across Ontario. It is a platform for sharing experiences and resources. Anyone interested in trees and urban forest issues is welcome to join!

The steering committee of the UFSN includes: LEAF (Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests), Neighbourwoods on the Grand, Peterborough Green-Up and ReForest London. The UFSN is supported by Ontario Power Generation’s Biodiversity Program ( www.opgbiodiversity.ca) which is aimed at getting Ontarians involved in protecting and conserving biodiversity.

Plant some hope for tomorrow…plant a tree or two this spring.

Your commentary is encouraged and always welcome below or to earthmatters@cornwallfreenews.com

CFN

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On May 15th, 2012, CRTF members assisted the Valleyfield RCMP Detachment when they observed two boats departing a shoreline residence in the Riviere-Beaudette, Quebec area.  Once members arrived on scene, ten thousand (10,000) cartons of contraband cigarettes were seized on shore. The individuals involved had fled the location before the CRTF and Valleyfield RCMP members arrived.

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On May 8th, 2012, CRTF members observed a boat departing a waterfront residence on County Road #2, South Glengarry, where two individuals were seen using dollies to move boxes from the shore. CRTF members moved in and performed a takedown at the residence. Once on scene, a five ton rental truck was observed partially loaded with contraband cases. Two males fled into the bush, one was quickly apprehended and taken into custody without incident, while the other was able to elude apprehension.  Sylvain MARTIN (age 38) from Montreal, Quebec, was found in possession of twelve thousand five hundred (12,500) cartons of contraband cigarettes. Their conveyance a 5 ton rental cube truck and the contraband cigarettes were seized.

On May 5th, 2012, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) members at Cornwall’s POE advised CRTF members that they had a vehicle with cases of peach stamped tobacco.  After an investigation by CRTF members, it was determined that the stamped tobacco met federal regulations.  However, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) agents determined that the two males from Hogansburg, New York, were still circumventing the allocation of tobacco to the reserve and transporting the product without proper licensing.  The MOF seized nine hundred (900) cartons of tobacco and will be charging the two individuals under the Tobacco Tax Act.

On May 5th, 2012, an Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer conducting a RIDE program in South Stormont, Ontario, arrested Theresa FODEY (age 45) from Cornwall, Ontario, for being in possession of nine hundred and fifty (950) cartons of contraband cigarettes. Her conveyance, a 1999 GMC Sierra pick up, along with the contraband cigarettes were seized.

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On April 28th , 2012, Steven HOBBS (age 26), of Gatineau, Quebec, was checked at the Prescott, Ontario’s Port of Entry (POE), after being refused entry into the United States. Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officials determined that HOBBS was wanted on an arrest warrant held by Cornwall’s RCMP.  This warrant stems from a 2009 occurrence where HOBBS was found to be in possession of contraband tobacco. Members of the CRTF attended Prescott’s POE to execute the warrant against HOBBS, who was then transported to Cornwall RCMP Detachment for processing.  HOBBS was held in custody pending his bail hearing.

On April 27th, 2012, while on patrol, CRTF members attended a rest area in Bainsville, Ontario.  While verifying license plates, it was discovered that the registered owner of one vehicle was Robert LEGER (age 63).  LEGER had a warrant of committal for 30 days, relating to a Highway Traffic Act offence for driving while having a suspended driver’s license.  LEGER was arrested on the outstanding warrant.

On April 18th, 2012, members of the Cornwall Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit – Contraband Tobacco Initiative (CFSEU-CTI) were conducting surveillance along County Road 2, Glen Walter, Ontario, when they observed suspicious activities.  Further investigation lead to the arrest of Jarrett Michael SAUVĒ (age 19) of Ottawa, Ontario, and Justin Peter STEWART (age 21) of Stittsville, Ontario and the seizure of a .38 calibre Smith & Westin revolver with ammunition.  As result the two (2) males were charged with the following gun related offenses:  Possession of restricted firearm with ammunition without license/registration, transportation of a restricted firearm in an unsafe manner, possession of firearm obtained by crime, and firearm trafficking.  Both SAUVÉ and STEWART were held for their respective bail hearings. Their next schedule court appearance is stated for June 7th, 2012 in Cornwall, Ontario.

During the past month, CRTF members have issued several Provincial offence notices.  Most of the offences are related to the Highway Traffic Act, such as: failure to provide driver’s license, insurance documents, vehicle registration, and texting while operating a motor vehicle.  A provincial offence notice was also issued under the Liquor Control Act for possession of open alcohol in a vehicle.

“The collaboration of the general public is an integral part of the CRTF’s success.  It’s everyone’s business, if you see any suspicious activities REPORT IT!” said Cst. Jean Juneau of the RCMP.
If you have any information regarding criminal activity in your area, you can contact the CRTF at 613-937-2800 or call Crime stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

The CRTF is a joint forces partnership that includes the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada Border Services Agency, Ontario Provincial Police and the Ontario Ministry of Finance.

CFN – On Saturday, May 19 at 12:00, Grant Crack, MPP (Glengarry–Prescott–Russell) will officiate at The Glass Blowing Place & Chillax Café Grand Opening and Party.

Location: 152 Main Street South, Alexandria, Ontario (613) 703-9110

Website: http://glass-blowing-place.com

The Glass Blowing Place is an artist’s dream place. It is both a first-class gallery and a learning place for the visual arts. The new gallery space is a venue for regional artists’ creations and is the exclusive sales venue for the output of Glengarry Glass Blowing.

While glass blowing is the principal educational experience offered, but there will also be classes in jewelry making, painting and drawing, stained glass and the lapidary arts.

Glengarry Glass Blowing ( http://glengarry-glass-blowing.com ), the primary artists’ group in residence, is comprised of Canadian masters David Paterson, Chris Van Zanten, Eric Covington and Murano Master Gian Paolo Bastianello. These artists will demonstrate the process of making their stunning glass art during the Grand Opening party on Saturday and Sunday, May 19 and 20.

Other artists, Jenny McBride (wire wrapped jewelry), Julie Laframboise (stained

glass) and Ken McBride (lapidary art) will also demonstrate their art.

Open registration for all courses will be offered at The Glass Blowing Place opening.

CFN

Hot Nights, Last Dance, and a song that probably led the births of thousands of children around the world; Love to Love You Baby..  She also acted in film and television.

Interviewed by Dick Clark on American Bandstand who himself recently passed away.

Her real name was LaDonna Adrian Gaines.  Her last release was To Paris With Love.

For five decades Donna entertained so many.   She’ll be missed, but her music will endure.   What was your fave Donna Summer song? You can post below.

Donna Summer December 31, 1948 – May 17, 2012

Last Dance

CFN

There’s a hitch though.  I’m stopped.

I’m told that I can’t separate my role as activist or journalist.

I offer to not use my camera, ME2, and just sit in and participate but I’m told that OPG will walk if I’m present.

What a lot of people forget when working in groups is to check their ego.   I saw the look in Rebecca Sorrell’s eyes and without any fuss or muss step down.   I end up waiting nearly two hours for the meeting to end.

It gives me time to make some calls and work on some notes for the follow up to Beavergate.  It’s been inspiring to work together as a team.  It’s been inspiring to combat stubbornness and ignorance without being overly emotional about it.

Since my first story April 25th a lot of neat things have happened.  Yes, it’s important to save the beavers in Guindon Park, but this is also a metaphor about getting elected officials and those that work on behalf of the public to listen to we the public.    It’s about the process and holding people accountable.   It doesn’t always have to be an us or them fight.

Cornwall Politicians have failed big time when it comes to listening and responding to the public in a meaningful way.   There’s been a mean spiritedness in how Beavergate has been handled.

As positive these first few strands of light are, and the meeting did show some huge strands of light, the bottom line is that the only reason this meeting took place is because of internal and external public pressures.

Yesterday the Standard Free Holder came out with a story on Beavergate.   It was written by Cheryl Brink.   I’m not sure which journalism school she went to, but the Free Holder last I looked was a Broadsheet newspaper.   I personally practice Gonzo Journalism.

WIKI:

Gonzo journalismis a style of journalism that is written without claims of objectivity, often including the reporter as part of the story via a first-person narrative. The word “gonzo” is believed to be first used in 1970 to describe an article by Hunter S. Thompson, who later popularized the style. The term has since been applied to other subjective artistic endeavors.

Gonzo journalism tends to favor style over fact to achieve accuracy—if accuracy is in fact meant to be achieved at all—and often uses personal experiences and emotions to provide context for the topic or event being covered. It disregards the “polished”, edited product favored by newspaper media and strives for a more gritty, personable approach—the personality of a piece is just as important as the event the piece is on. Use of quotations, sarcasm,humor, exaggeration, and profanity is common.

Among the forefathers of the new journalism movement, Thompson said in the February 15th, 1973 issue of Rolling Stone, “If I’d written the truth I knew for the past ten years, about 600 people—including me—would be rotting in prison cells from Rio to Seattle today. Absolute truth is a very rare and dangerous commodity in the context of professional journalism.”^[

That being said it’s very very important to have facts in a story and even to occasionally fact check.

Ms Brink wrote in her blog:

A group of a dozen or more protesters hit up city hall this week, despite not making it onto the evening’s agenda. The Save the Beaver petitioners brought signs and homemade t-shirts, hoping to make a plea for the end to trapping of the country’s national animal in Guindon Park. When they realized they wouldn’t be invited to speak, they left in a rather noisy fashion. “I’ll see you next council, Mr. Kilger,” said Rebecca Sorrell, the unofficial leader of the group, and the petition’s author.

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Personally, I don’t think they’re going to get too far. Trapping for the purpose of population control has been going for more than two decades with very little controversy; the beavers are still around but the roads haven’t flooded. The city has little motivation to make changes … plus a couple of traps were stolen from the park this year, which I’m sure will do the opposite of helping this group’s cause.

As this video of part of the protesters entering council shows there are well over a dozen.  Why lower the number? Why leave out the facts?  Why leave out how Beavergate started?   Why slur the group by suggesting that somehow they were behind traps being allegedly stolen from Guindon park?

A quick telephone call to the police would have given Ms Brink the police report filed April 26, 2012 numbered CW12005380 in which the Trapper, Mr. Quinn, complained of one trap, valued at $33 being stolen from near its location near the Forest Washrooms.

Why would there be a trap near the washrooms next to the RC track where kids play?

When I started Beavergate after hearing about the plight of Guindon Park from Mr. Wyatt Walsh my first home work was talking to experts; scientists, biologists, and gaining the facts of this situation.   Could not Ms. Brink.   Ms Sorrell and her group didn’t start until after the 26th.  Why slur them, even loosely in her story?    As well I spoke to Mr. Pat Quinn the trapper who said four traps were stolen and that complained that we media were a big part of the problem and hung up on me.

My request for a 90 day moratorium was met by the trap being moved to the beaver lodge – clearly showing a lack of good faith or willingness to dialog.

Was it because Council and the CAO have a hard on for CFN?  I don’t know.  I do know it was unnecessary.

After the meeting I again; for the third time emailed Mayor Kilger, the CAO, Council and management requesting an immediate 90 day moratorium of trapping in Guindon Park.

I hope this time it’s met with the reality that we as a city have a huge opportunity.     Lesley Fox of  The Association for the Protection of Fur-Bearing Animals has clearly offered to send at their cost a team to deal with the issues of Beaver Control in Guindon Park.

Not only will this ultimately save the city dollars.  It will help Guindon Park become an even better attraction.  They also will be training city staff at no cost and some volunteers who are excited about the opportunity as this service, which is evolving very quickly can be costly and is a growing area of jobs as there’s an acute shortage of people that can provide these services.

So as you can clearly see this is a huge opportunity for we citizens of Cornwall Ontario.  It’s truly a win win situation for all involved if they embrace it.

OPG left the meeting first last night.   Since that first phone call to me where they basically lied they’ve been a dark shadow on this process.   I hope Ms Haliday’s employers in Toronto realize that there are always options to better the environment and respect your neighbors.

As for Ms. Brink’s comment above:

Trapping for the purpose of population control has been going for more than two decades with very little controversy

It’s our job in the media to help bring issues to light.  If we in the media don’t bring concerns to our pages how ever will an issue become controversial enough to bring pressure on our elected officials to respond?

And to end this piece is a video we shot with Rebecca Sorrell, her wonderful dog Ridley who hopes to play safely in the future in Guindon Park and Mr. Wyatt Walsh who expertly reputed OPG’s Engineers report to kick off the meeting.

Ms Sorrell is not going to let her tootsie off of the gas pedal.   Her petition continues online and in stores like Island Ink Jet (3rd street and Pitt across from the Royal Bank) and she still hopes to present to council with her supporters at the next meeting.

You can post your comments below.

UPDATE 9:17 AM

We just received word from Mr. Stephen Alexander, General Manager Planning, Parks, and Recreation Services from Cornwall Ontario

There was an e mail last night asking for consideration of a 90 day moratorium on traps in the park. 

 In fact,  following the meeting,  staff determined , and put into action  steps to remove the only trap that was remaining in the park while we are considering if any other approaches can achieve the objectives of protecting the park infrastructure etc.  for park users. 

To my understanding,  from information this morning,   by the time you get this e mail it may have in fact been removed,  together with the signs. 

I personally want to thank Mr. Alexander for this amazing gesture and step forward by the City Management of  Cornwall Ontario!

POSSESSON OF STOLEN PROPERTY

            Cornwall, ON- Ryan Selleck, 28 of Ottawa was arrested on May 15^th, 2012. It is alleged that between October 2011 and November 2012 a break & enter occurred in Akwesasne and police conducted an investigation. A search warrant was sought and he was found to be in possession of the stolen property. He was held in custody until court the following day.

BREACH

            Cornwall, ON- Kenneth Kuno, 52 of Cornwall was arrested on May 15^th, 2012. He was bound by a Probation Order with the conditions of not to not attend any parks, swimming pools where persons under the age of 16 may be or may be expected to be and keep the peace and be of good behaviour. It is alleged that on May 15^th, 2012 he was located on the bike path and police were contacted. He was charged with 2 counts of breach of Probation Order and released to appear in court on June 26^th, 2012.

ASSAULT, MISCHIEF, THREATS & BREACHES

            Cornwall, ON- Shawn Disotell, 26 of Cornwall was arrested on May 16^th, 2012. He was bound by Probation Order with the condition of keep the peace and be of good behaviour. It is alleged that on May 15^th, 2012, he got into an altercation with an 19-year-old acquaintance and assaulted and uttered threats to him. During the altercation property was damaged. The victim did not require medical treatment. Police were contacted and an investigation followed. He was charged with Assault, Utter Threats to cause death, Mischief under $5000.00 and breach of Probation Order.  He was released to appear in court on a later date.

WARRANTS

            Cornwall, ON- Adam Lacoste-Marshall, 20 was arrested on May 14^th, 2012 under the strength of an outstanding warrant. It is alleged that hefailed to report to the probation office and failing to notify probation of his change of address. He was released to appear in court on June 26^th, 2012.

Cornwall, ON- Laura Boots, 24 of Akwesasne was arrested on May 14^th, 2012 under the strength of two outstanding warrants. It is alleged that she failed to appear in court on October 31^st, 2012 and November 4^th, 2012 and bench warrants were sought. She was held in custody until court later that day.

Cornwall, ON- Andrew Landry, 21 of Cornwall was arrested on May 14^th, 2012 under the strength of an outstanding warrant. It is alleged that he failed to attend court on May 10^th, 2012 and a bench warrant was sought. He was released to appear in court on June 26^th, 2012.

DOMESTIC ASSAULT

            Cornwall, ON- A 55-year-old Cornwall female was arrested on May 14^th, 2012. It is alleged that she got into an altercation with her 72-year-old common-law husband when she broke property, assaulted him, struck him with a wooden sign and a basket.  It was also alleged that she pointed an edged weapon at him and threaten him. The victim did not require medical treatment. Police were contacted and an investigation followed. She was charged with 2 counts of Mischief, Assault, 3 counts of assault with a weapon, 2 counts of Utter Threats and 2 counts of Possession of Weapons Dangerous. She was held in custody until court the following day. Her name was not released as it would identify the victim.

CFN

At issue is the Conibear Kill trapping in a city owned nature trail; Guindon park.  When a 90 day moratorium on Kill Trapping was requested the city moved a trap to the Beaver lodge all but wiping out the family just about the time that CAO Paul Fitzpatrick returned from Sick Leave.    Some are stating that it’s his heavy handed punitive style that gave the order to move the Conibear KILL TRAP to the beaver’s lodge.  One insider even mocking that the CAO was the city expert on beaver….

The City also refused to allow Rebecca Sorrell and her protesters to speak before council.    A group from BC( The Association for the Protection of Fur-Bearing Animals)  offered at their own expense to educate and implement options besides kill trapping which the city as of this writing as refused to even consider never mind accept.

Protesters attend Council

With over 1,000 signatures and comments in a little over a week it’s almost as boggling as having a City Councilor sit on an Conservation Authority’s board of directors and say nothing as Councilor Bernadette Clement has.   The St. Lawrence River Institute for Environmental Sciences has still to comment to CFN about her continuing on their board in light of Beavergate.

Further irony is that Dr. Brian Hickey spoke with CFN while we researched our earlier stories!

Rebecca Sorrell and Supporters Speak Out!

Ms Sorrell has her petition online and in stores that will carry it in the area.   She’s to attend a meeting with some government officials and OPG on Wednesday, but the silence of Council Monday night really struck a nerve.

Cornwall Ontario Council seems to refuse to allow delegations to present at council with contentious issues.    The standard operating procedure seems to be to smile and ignore an issue until it goes away while secretly moving behind the scenes….not very transparent or accountable.   Surely the people of Cornwall Ontario deserve better?

You can post your comments below and we’ll be updating the story as more information becomes available.

CFN

It is amazing how things grow and change over spring days.  The fragrance and subtle beauty of apple blossoms are an absolute delight to the senses.  New visitors such as the Bluebird, Rose-breasted Grosbeak and the honey bee visiting our dandelion dressed lawn lift the spirit. With spring moving forward in full throttle we are preparing are yard and beds for the upcoming season of planting, growth and harvest.

We have had a compost bin, 4’ x 4’ x 4’ for several years.  It is has acquired a lean over time however it is still standing and useful.  We have decided to add a second compartment next to it so that we can start a second pile once the first if full.  This was done simply by attaching three pallets.  Attaching one to the first bin and then the rest to each other with ties.  It’s not very pretty at the moment as noted below however it will look better over the season when the wild daisies (which grow about 5 to 6 feet tall) and the sunflowers grow around the side and back perimeters of the bins during the summer.  A move to help us compost more of our yard and household organic matter.

In my jaunts in the fields beyond the compost bins, debris is often found that has been blown out of garbage and recycling bins. I make it a point to pick up this foreign matter and recycle or garbage as needed. On one such walk a sponge noodle was found. You know the floatation noodles that kids or adults use in swimming pools? I decided to repurpose this into a peonies support.  Several branches that were trimmed from our bushes and trees were sharpened at one end for easy insertion into the noodle and then into the ground around the peonies plant.  Once the branches were secured into the ground, the noodle was pushed to a height which will support the flowers and plant as it continues to grow and bloom.  This will keep the heavy blooms off of the ground which we guess will allow us to enjoy the blooms a little longer and make it easier to groom the ground around it.  Now we are not suggesting that noodles be purchased for this purpose, our hope is to inspire you to think about how some of the things that normally end up in your garbage or recycle bin can be repurposed in and around your home.

I came across an article on a social media site that talked about growing celery by planting the cut-off end piece in the ground.  Supposedly this would grow new celery.  Sounds incredible, doesn’t it?  So I embarked on a little experiment.  Because it is still cool to think about planting things in the garden I decided put a couple of these ‘end celery pieces’ in water so that it would have a chance to grow some roots before planting outdoors.  A couple of weeks in a south facing window sill in a bit of water have produced the following results.

Both ends have grown roots and new growth has begun in the middle of the ends.  This experiment will be planted outdoors this week-end. A report on the progress of this trial will be shared in the coming weeks; so exciting.

We would love to hear about what is happening in your backyard.  Your commentary is encouraged and always welcome.