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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Exeter Times-Advocate, 1974-10-03, Page 4Time to catch up on some correspondence. From the sublime to the ridiculous, Letter from old friend George Cadogan, of the North Shore Leader, Newcastle, N.B. "Dear Bill: Are you going to the (newspaper) convention in Toronto July 24-27? I have a room at the Sheraton, but Elda won't be going; you could use the other bed. Perhaps you know the Americans will be there, and we expect about 2,000 delegates. Speakers will include Pierre Trudeau, Nelson Rockefeller, and Father McLaughlin, the priest who is a speech writer for Richard Nixon." Well, thanks, George. It would have been sublime. The Sheraton is a luxury hotel. In other words they charge too much, But I certainly wouldn't have minded seeing some of the old weekly editors' gang or what's,left of it. And I'd have rather enjoyed knocking around with • _Mower . Boy, Rocky and the good Father. Alas, `twas not to be. Thanks to our magnificent postal service, I received your letter about Aug. 4th. And my, my, what a lot of changes have taken place, since that convention. Pierre; after a sally into the streets where the common people are, is safely back in his ivory tower, or crystal palace, scoffing at any suggestions that he do something about inflation. Nelson Rockefeller is now Vice- Anyway, Gordon gets the President of the United States. year's award for sweet-talk and And I hope Father McLaughlin:, persistence. He invited me, and hung onto a parish. For he sure is my wife, and any kids who were out of a job as a speech write for around, to come down toHartland you for the Remembrance D'ay That I didn't make that con- %weekend. It sounded pretty nice, vention fills me with a deep sense • the way he put it. of frustration. If I'd been able to As an after thought he just get even one of that illustrious happened to mention they'd like trio alone for a moment, I might me to speak at the Legion dinner. have been able to change the whole course of history. Providing I had a club in my hand, Well, thanks again, George. (George Cadogan is a modern Don Quixote who is idealistic and afraid of nothing. At present he is galloping, lance at the full tilt, against a monstrous windmill, K.C. Irving, who practically owns the Maritimes)„And give my love to Elda and the kids and the grandkids. Hang in there and slug it out with old K.C, It seems the New Brunswickers are after me this year. Just the other day I got a phone call, on a Saturday morning, from Gordon Fairgrieves, publisher of the Hartland (N.B.) Observer, I didn't even snarl at him, though it was 9 a.m. our time, and I'm not the best of company at that hour on a Saturday morning, my day to sleep in. He soft-talked me, that man, It took me a couple of minutes to realize it, as I was still groggy -from watching the' late, late show. I have an' orgy every Friday night, because I don't have to work on Saturday. It's a compensation thing from my childhood, when my mother called up the theatre manager and told him not to let me in to the Wednesday afternoon matinee, because I was not only skipping school to go, but swiping a dime out of her purse for admission. I was about ten. Our response to now By ELMOR E BOOMER Counsellor for Information South Huron For appointment pnone: 235-2715 or 235-2474 Health field concept exeferVines-Aotiorate SERVING CANADA'S BEST FARMLAND C.W.N.A., 0.W.N.A. CLASS 'A' and ABC Editor — Bill Batten Advertising Manager Assistant Editor — Ross Haugh Women's Editor — Terri Irvine Phone 235-1331 Published Each Thursday Morning at Exeter, Ontario Second Class Mail Registration Number 0386 Paid in Advance Circulation March 31, 1974, 5,309 SUBSCRIPTION RATES: Canada $9.00 Per Year; USA $11,00 ' 44:2164TiiiMSWIMAAMMtene How feasible is complex? The unchangeable Maybe I could change history The report submitted by the special committee investigating a sports complex for South Huron was disappointing. The importance of generating enthusiasm in that initial report was almost totally overlooked by the com- mittee Members told those in attendance that they visited four different complexes in various stages of development, but failed to remark on the advantages being enjoyed by those four communities or the extent to which the facilities are being utilized. At one RAP meeting, a member of the committee noted that pictures had been taken at some of the sites, yet none was used to visually indicate to the interested spectators at the meeting what a sports complex is and how it is used by the com- munity. Sure, everyone knows what an indoor swimming pool is and also an auditorium or a senior citizens' meeting room, but a pic- torial description of a complex such as Tillsonburg would leave most people drool- ing at the mouth and anxious to get a similar project underway locally. Only Jack Underwood, the second last speaker, drew attention to the fact that this community is facing the need to replace its "shaky arena" and certainly that should have been one of the underlying reasons for the recommendation to proceed with further consideration of a sports complex. This message is one that must come across loudly and clearly, because as Jack noted, people would find it difficult to com- prehend life in this community without such a facility. The present arena is living on "borrow- ed time" and while a large complex may not materialize, consideration for replac- ing the present arena must be given priori- ty by local civic leaders. It becomes obvious then, that overall planning for additional facilities should be included in the initial stages so the com- munity does not suffer the fate of a hodge- podge of facilities that can in no way offer the benefits of a central complex. Looking back, it is easy to see that errors in planning were made when the swimming pool and curling rink were not located in an area that would have allowed room for a new arena and auditorium. Of course, sports complexes in those days were unknown, but some foresight locally would have had us well on our way to the goal which is only now hovering into sight. While the feasibility study undertaken prompted the members to recommend that a complex be built, there was nothing presented in the way of statistics to back up that recommendation. Yet, having visited four complexes, surely that information was available to them. About the only statistic listed would ac- tually make that recommendation questionable. It was explained that the Tillsonburg complex served a population of 38,000 while it was projected that one in South Huron would serve only 15,000. It would be easy, therefore, to assume that a local complex would, by necessity, have only half the scope of the one in Tillsonburg. A better comparison would have been with the new complex in Kincardine, because the population logistics would be more equitable and at least create an at- titude of "if they can do it, so can we". + + + Our criticism of the report may be un- fair, because of a difference in comprehen- ding the goals that were established. Ob- viously, if the committee felt they had no onus to do a "selling job" on the audience, then it is unfair to fault them for not having done so. However, a "feasibility" study that results in a recommendation to proceed, obviously should contain more information on how it is "feasible". + + + One of the main reasonsfor being disap- pointed and critical is the fact that we are of the opinion that a sports complex is in- deed feasible—albeit in stages—and that there is a pressing need for consideration of plans to replace the local arena in the not-too-distant future. That opinion is not based on its rather antiquated facilities, but strictly on the basis that the structure has deteriorated to a,point whereit is beyond repair and at the same time in drastic need of repair. The roof is almost "shot" and the floor over the ice surface is badly cracked and heaved and sooner or later will create breaks in the piping and the result will be no ice. alitceitv" Auditorium, swimming pool and health club facilities are not as critical, although we believe they would be well used if in- cluded in the structure, particularly the first two. Swimming is an activity which many of the middle age residents of the area would be able to use, as well as youngsters who are not inclined to be interested in ice ac- tivities. Its merit comes in the fact that swimming is considered one of the best ex- ercises in which one can engage and that alone should give it strong consideration. Auditoriums are also at a premium in the area, as witnessed by the fact that the new hall in Kirkton is heavily booked throughout most of next year already. However, further study is required to ensure that a similar facility elsewhere would not render the Kirkton hall un- economical. A health club is questionable in terms of the fact that physical fitness classes at present are not well attended. Perhaps more consideration should be given to ad- ding some of the equipment pertaining to such activities at the high school. Certainly, care should be taken that facilities are not duplicated in the com- munity at the expense of leaving out other facilities that are not available at all. + + + Many residents of the area, of course, will question just how feasible it is to raise the necessary funds for a sports complex. Obviously, when people start talking in terms of one million dollars, it is absolutely staggering. However, let's think about raising that $1,000,000. First of all, we're told that the provin- cial and federal governments will con- tribute up to 60 percent of the cost. That leaves the community with $400,000. That's still a sizeable amount, but is at- tainable if the project is set up on a three- year plan. We've drawn some figures "out of a hat" so to speak for terms of discussion on- ly. You may argue with any of them, but the point is that it does indicate that the project is probably feasible. As the general opinions presented at the meeting last week indicated, Exeter Will' have to assume the brunt of the cost. We suggest council allot $25,000 per year for the next three years for the project out of general tax revenues. Usborne township is almost totally, served by the arena and complex" as in- dicated by registrations in recreational ac- tivities and their annual contribution would be $10,000. Stephen and Hay have lesser participa- tion due to arenas in their municipalities so their share is $5,000 per year. The villages of Hensall, Grand Bend and Zurich con- tribute $1,000 each. Although not included, the townships of Tuckersmith, Biddulph and McGillivray could conceivably con- tribute some portion as well. Area service clubs and groups could set their sights on $15,000 per year in total. That's around $3,000 each for the major clubs and contributions of $500 to $1,000 for some of the smaller groups. Let us assume there are 25 firms and individuals in the area who could afford $400 per year, another 25 who could give $250, 100 at $100, 200 at $50, 400 at $20 and 400 at $10. It's pure conjecture, but perhaps the old arena could be sold for $50,000. That es- timate is given on the basis of a news story from a community in eastern Ontario where an arena was sold for $61,000 to a farm machinery firm. , We'll save you the mathematics and note that the annual amount raised is around $120,000. Interest on the first two years would add another $24,000 to the pot before construction begins. We ask you. . is that feasible? + + + The ingredient needed primarily—is leadership—and despite our criticism of their initial effort, we think the committee already established has that ability. Add some representatives from the other municipalities and service clubs in the area and there is no question that they could undertake the task quite capably. That driginal committee has con- siderable more material than presented at the meeting and we agree wholeheartedly with Usborne councillor Bill Morley that it is most harmful to keep naming new com- mittees and lose the enthusiasm and con- tinuity required. The area needs a new arena. A sports complex with an indoor pool and large auditorium and other facilities would be most beneficial. Let's get on with the job! 50 Years Ago Mr. and Mrs. Fred Southcott who have been spending the summer at Grand Bend, left this week for their home in Venice, California. Mr. C. L. Wilson, who pur- chased from William Dougall Jr., of Hay, the bald-headed eagle captured on the Dougall farm a few months ago has presented the bird to the London Zoo, Mr. W.Cutbush last week purchased the house of Mr. Beer on Simcoe Street. On Tuesday, Jack and William Snell, Lloyd Schroeder, William Wareing and W. Geddes left by motor for Bedodore Bay and Port' Elgin on a trapping and hunting expedition. 25 Years Ago Town Council will sponsor a contest among students at Exeter Public and High Schools for the best crest for the municipality. Exeter Home and School an- nounced this week it would sponsor a meeting of town of- ficials to discuss the organization of safety patrol for school, children. Lorne Ballantyne, 17, is believed to be the youngest ever to win the South Huron Cham- pionship in Friday's plowing match near Dashwood. Jim Tomlinson and Donna Wells were proclaimed the senior champions at the Exeter Public school track and field meet held Wednesday afternoon. 15 Years Ago Ross Tuckey of Turkey Beverages Ltd., Exeter was elected president of the Ontario Carbonated Beverages Association at a convention in Hamilton last week. Ontario Department of Education has given tentative approval to the $60,000 three room addition to Exeter Public School. Official opening of the new central school in McGillivray Township will be held Friday evening, October 23, it was an- nounced this week, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Dobbs and Mayor and Mrs. R. E. Pooley, who are on a trip to the west have been held up on their return owing to snow storms. 10 Years Ago A complaint of pollution in the Aux Saubles river west of Exeter will be turned over to the Ontario Water Resopurces Commission but it is doubtful if such an easy solution will be found to answer the problem in regard to the lagoon operated by the town for Canadian Canners and drainage problems in the area of the , canning factory. Members of Hensall Council expressed disappointment Monday that their request for a centennial grant to repair and renovate the arena was turned down on the grounds it was not a suitable project for such an oc- casion. Exeter assessor Eric Car- scadden reported to council Monday that the population has dropped by a total of 85 this year, while assessment has increased by only $85,000, Maya Eldrid Simmons reported at council Monday that he would definitely not seek re- election for his post for the coming two-year term, As a carrot for the donkey, he tossed off the fact that I'd be in distinguished company. One of their speakers in the past had been, Milton Gregg, V.C. former Minister of Veteran's Affairs. Crafty devil. Gordon, that is, not Milton. He extolled the beauty of the Maritmes in November, the fact that our bedroom at his house would have a TV set, and various other allurements. I was tempted. That's why I called him a devil, A pleasant weekend in the Maritimes. A change from the dull schedule. New people, new faces, travel. I didn't say rib. Said I'd let him know. The wife — you know — don't know what she has planned. (She was in bed and not in the mood for consultation, with her broken ribs.) I was tempted and I stand before you, brethern and sistern, and I admit it. I put out a few feelers, while the old lady was asleep. Called the travel agency. Yes, I could just make it to Fredericton and back on the weekend, without losing a day's pay. And if everything ran on time. It would only cost me about three hundred bucks, if I took my wife. And only six or eight hours to write a speech. Not bad. And free room and board down there. Oh, yes, I was tempted. And the good Gordon didn't leave a stone unturned. Same night there was a telegram, phoned from Toronto, backing up the phone call. Three days later a letter: "It will be a pleasant break for you all . . . you will enjoy yourselves in our small town of 1,000 people . . . obtain enough copy for ten columns . . . find out what New Brun- swick is like . . and also what one of the smallest Legion branches in the province doeS on Nov. 11th” Well, if it does what most of the other branches do, after the parade to the cenotaph, I've already been there, Gord, Finally I faced the Old Bat- tleaxe, laid out the project, "Don't be ridiculous," she said. "Don't you remember that we're having a family reunion at Grandad's that weekend?" I didn't. Sorry, Gord. Sorry, chaps. But I'm still tempted, The Last Post in Hartland would be something. The last post at Grandad's is the last post in the fence. Looking back over this column, I wonder which is the sublime and which is the ridiculous: a bunch of politicians spouting platitudes at the convention, or me sprinting to N.B. to spout some fun to the Hartland Legion? For the past few weeks a young friend, who has dropped in on us at different intervals for all of his 23 years, has been visiting before he starts off on a journey that may take him away for a couple of years. One evening as we sat around talking, a casual remark was made about the possibility of selling our house. He jerked to an upright position, "You would- n't!" he exclaimed.1"This place should be like Old Man River and go' on forever." Whenever we make a similar remark to our own grown, out-of- the nest children we get the same reaction. "How could you think of selling our home," they lament, It's natural, I guess, for most of us to want unchangeables in our lives. Especially in these un- certain times, when roots aren't as easily put down, we want to be able to reach out for something or someone that's unshakable and always there. Yet, it's a known fact of life that things do change and even pass away, that people (sometimes those we love the most) alter or die, and we are faced with the challenge of ac- cepting the inevitable and going on with our lives. I got to thinking about this on Sunday when I heard our minister read from Romans VIII where Paul says no matter what happens, good or bad; even if he is faced with death, he is con- vinced nothing can separate him from the love of God. What he is saying, in a nut shell is that God's love is the only unchangeable In weeks past we have spoken of the traditional approach to the maintenance and improvement of the health of Canadians. Central 'to our present health programs is• the science of medicine. If doctors can improve their techniques our health will also improve. Medicine has assumed magical powers in our thinking, Also central to our present health system is care for the sick. Thus doctors, nurses, and hospitals are the most important elements of our present system. There is little emphasis on prevention. Society has demanded immediate care for each individual when he aches or pains but does not frown on life- styles that cause aches and pains. Now it is widely realized that improvement in the health of Canadians can no longer be expected from the care of the sick. Any improvement must be sought in improved life practices, in prevention of diseases in the healthy and not the treatment of disease in the sick, While the latter must be maintained, the former must have the dominant emphasis. The department of National Health and Welfare has sought a new conceptual framework for our efforts toward greater health - a framework all - en- compassing, intellectually ac- ceptable, practical and simple enough to serve every Canadian. They have remapped the health territory. This new Health Field Concept is discussed in A New Per- spective on the Health of Canadians: a Working Document which is available from the Department of National Health and Welfare, Ottawa, I hope you already' have a copy. The new Health Field Concept is organized around four main elements, which follow: Human Biology, Environment, Lifestyle and Health Care Organization. The element of Human Biology thing we can count on as we go through our lives. He paints a picture that takes away all loneliness and fear . .both for the present and the future, He is saying that whatever terrifying thing could happen to us, God's love and concern remains the same, and through faith in Jesus Christ we can face up to life regardless of what changes are in store. Many people find it difficult to accept shifts in their lives even when they're good • ones! Recently I heard about a woman who was nearing a nervous breakdown because her status both financially and socially, had suddenly lunged upward and she was afraid she wouldn't be able to cope with her new position. Paul had words for people like her, too. When he wrote to the Philippians he said, "I know how to get along with much or lit- tle . how to live on almost nothing or with everything, I have learned the secret of con- tentment in every situation ... full stomach or hunger ... plenty or want* The secret? "Through the help of Christ who gives me the strength and power!" When we need a stabilizer in our lives we dare not look to things for they may disappear: we cannot hang our hopes on people for they may change or pass on, What we can always do is reach out and grasp the Hand of God for He is always there and His love endures forever, includes all aspects of health which are found in the human physical presence and workings. Certain strengths and weaknesses are inti&ited. other health factors develk with the growth and maturation of each person. There are many systems in the human body which in their operations determine whether an individual is healthy or diseased. Many people suffer untold misery because of purely biological factors. Environment is a term descriptive of a category of health and disease which finds its roots in a person's surrounding situation. It is descriptive of elements which cannot be con- trolled by the individual. Noise causes deafness. Contaminated water causes sickness. When garbage and sewage is disposed of properly individuals are more apt to be healthy. Lifestyle is the category which includes the factors of health or disease which can be controlled by the individual. If a person smokes tobacco he is liable to be a candidate for the Princess. Margaret Hospital. If a person over-eats he strains the capacity of his heart. If one is an un- controlled worrier, the stress he allows has its due affect on his health. These are self-imposed risks. The Health Care Organization is the element of the Health Field Concept which encompasses all efforts to care for those who are sick or who need attention from a health professional. Our main emphasis has been on the fourth element named above but the greatest cause of ill- health and death arise from the first three categories. With the acceptance of the Health Field Concept we have a practical base for greater prevention of disease and thus improvement in health. Certainly this framework is also comprehensive. Any health — Please turn to Page 5 Amalgamated 1924 "WI the safety features are standard equipment this year — the CAR is optional." • ... , ... . 4.07, Times Established 1873 Advocate Established 1881