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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 2009-05-07, Page 14When life gives you lemons make lemonade. Or in this case, when it puts you in the unemployment line, build your way out. After a decade in the machine shop of Wescast Industries in Wingham, Jason Van der Meer found himself out of work as a result of staff cuts, last October. For a time, it seemed he was content to play Mr. Mom to his and his wife Patty’s three small children. But an agenda was taking shape during those months away from the work grind, one that involved putting a long-time interest and talent to good use. Van der Meer Fine Carpentry is now in business, just in time for spring renovations and home improvements. Having started woodworking when he was 18, Van der Meer said his focus now is on small finishing work, such as interior and exterior trim and smaller home improvements and repairs. “As far as bigger jobs, I have a network of contractors that I can refer people to,” said Van der Meer. Working from a shop located at his home, Van der Meer confers with clients to create a finished custom product to meet their needs and tastes. One of his first projects was a wheelchair-accessible oak bar for a basement recreation room. He invites potential clients to contact him for a consultation which will include an estimate on the work. Van der Meer Fine Carpentry can be reached by calling 519-887- 8122. Mosquitoes are among the mostcommon uninvited guests at backyard barbecues and other outdoor gatherings. But warding off these hungry andintrusive insects can be done in a number of ways. One of the ways in which homeowners can minimize thelikelihood of mosquito infestations is to ensure gutters are clean and clear of debris. Mosquitoes are attracted to decaying leaves, so ridding the gutters of such debris can reduce the risk of mosquito infestation. Another, though probably less popular, way to reduce the risk of mosquitoes wreaking havoc on a backyard barbecue is to ask guests to refrain from wearing perfumes, aftershave or other products that have strong aromas. Such items attract mosquitoes and can increase the risk of guests getting bitten. Wardrobe can also play a role in a person's susceptibility to mosquito bites. Tight-fitting clothing can be bitten through by hungry mosquitoes, while more loose fitting clothing can be more efficacious when it comes to protecting partygoers. Finally, maintaining any areas where water can gather is also an effective means to ward off mosquito attacks. T urn over a dog’s water bowl when not in use or throw sand or dirt in any rain puddles to make the property less attractive to pesky and problematic mosquitoes. PAGE 14. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2009.Ward off pesky mosquitoes At his job After being laid off from the job he held for a decade Jason Van der Meer seized the opportunity to do something he’d often thought about — starting his own business. (Bonnie Gropp photo) Local opens carpentry business Triton Aluminum Trailers Many in Stock C o m ee &S e ee t h ee S e l e c t i o n ! www.bandktire.com Brodhagen, ON 518-345-2248 Give us a call 519-887-9061 Fax 519-335-3570 R.R. 2 Bluevale It’s Gardening Time • Natural Mulch • Screened Topsoil • Regular Topsoil • Recycled Crushed Asphalt (call ahead to make arrangements) • Sand • Gravel • Fill • Loading & Hauling • Bulldozing • Excavating Delivery Available You Pickup John CONSTRUCTION LTD. DALE PUMP & FARM SERVICE LTD. Water Pumps ~ Conditioners Heaters ~ Water Installations ~ Backhoe Service For all your water needs Hydraulic hoses & fittings 269 Ontario Street, Clinton, Ont. N0M 1H0 Phone 519-482-3274 Fax 519-482-9540 See us today for... • Picnic tables • Pressure treated Spruce & Cedar • Trex Decking • Lattice • Regal aluminum railing • Paint, Stains • Water sealant • Shovels & rakes • Mini ties • Patio stones • Hardware • Peat moss • Garden Sheds • Barbecue Propane Exchange Centre McDonald's Home Hardware Building Centre "We've Got Your Lumber" Free estimates & delivery available Brussels 519-887-6277 Anniversary 1929-2009 By Bonnie Gropp The Citizen