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November 21, 2012 Vol 20 No 22
New Upgrades Featured at Library Open House The Town of Kensington recently held an open house for area residents, Saturday, November 10, to celebrate the Kensington Heritage Library’s new home on Commercial Street and, the completion of the Summerside Rotary Club Fundraiser for upgrades to the Library. Rotary is an international volunteer organization with a legacy of supporting literacy projects. Each year the Summerside Rotary Club supports a number of projects to help improve literacy on
the Island. The Kensington Library Fundraiser, spearheaded by Summerside Rotary Club raised $35,000 to go towards upgrades at the town’s community Library. MC Councillor Rowan Caseley invited patrons to enjoy the snacks, refreshments and have a piece of special celebration cake as they viewed the many new renovations that have been completed. Caseley noted that the success of the Heritage
Library was made possible due to a joint effort of many: the province of Prince Edward Island who provides the books, computers and branch technician, the Summerside Rotary Club whose fundraiser made many upgrades possible and, the generosity of many area donors.
Stephenie Campbell-Branch Technician helps select reading material for young library patrons Brennan, Emily and Megan Smith. As the librarian Ms Campbell also plans a variety of library programs and activities for a wide range of ages, helps with reference questions, orders books and plans upcoming programs.
The Open House marked the completion of the library’s renovation project, which involved improvements to the sidewalk entrance,
cont’d on p. 9
L-R: The Hon. Wes Sheridan, Councillor Jeff Spencer, Stephenie Campbell-Branch Technician, Councillor Rowan Caseley, Ivan Gallant-library board director and Geoff Baker-Town of Kensington Chief Administrator with help from Brennan, Emily and Megan Smith cut the ribbon to officially open the Kensington Heritage Library.
Stephenie CampbellBranch Technician (back) and Emma McDermottKISH student volunteer demonstrate the new computer station with large keyboard and mouse that will aid patrons who have visual and/or motor skills difficulties. The student volunteer program gives participants an opportunity to volunteer for class credit and Community Service Bursary hours, within walking distance of school.
Mark Your Calendar - It’s Christmas Parade Time It’s that time of the year and organizers are busy gearing up for the 9th Annual Kensington Christmas Parade! The parade is a festive time filled with special treats, and happy gatherings of friends and family and, songs and carols of the season. The Christmas Parade is a community affair that winds through the streets of Kensington and is characterized by floats, Christmas lights, participants dressed in holiday costumes, music, hot chocolate, treats and, of course, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Once again, the town will be collecting non-perishable goods for the Food Bank so, fill a bag to donate along the parade route. Businesses, organizations and interested parties are also encouraged to get into the spirit of the season by entering a float in the parade. The parade has become a December tradition not to be missed for many area residents so, gather family and friends and come out and enjoy this year’s parade! For more details see p. 15
November 21, 2012
King George Place 61 Broadway Street Kensington, Prince Edward Island Published twice monthly by MJS Marketing and Promotions. The contents of this newspaper are protected by copyright. To make use of any of the material, you must first obtain permission from the publisher. Publisher: Michael J. Smith Editor: Isabel Smith Feature Article(s): Andy Walker Mailing address: PO Box 601, Kensington, PE, C0B 1M0 Tel: 902 836-3196 Fax: 902 836-4889 E-mail: thecourier@eastlink.ca We Welcome Your Letters: The County Line Courier welcomes letters on topics of interest to our readers. Publishing of any letter is at the discretion of the editor. Any submitted articles, letters or features, may be edited for length, clarity, grammar and content. All letters must be signed with the writer’s name and telephone number for verification purposes. Unsigned or anonymous letters will not be considered for publication. Short letters have more impact. Opinions expressed are those of the people who submit them and not necessarily those of The County Line Courier. Next edition December 5 (deadline for submissions for this issue is November 28)
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Artist Jeremy Paynter Highlights His 2013 Beacons of Light Calendar a wonderful, affordable and unique Christmas Gift by a talented local artist When I did my first calendar about PEI lighthouses for 2007, I always knew that I would do another one because people, especially Maritimers, love lighthouses or anything that reminds them of the lovely beaches and the long grass blowing in our ever-present PEI wind. Lighthouses tug at the heartstrings of most people but especially the people who grew up close to the sea and there isn’t a spot on PEI that is far from open water. Thanks to the generosity of Dale Paynter, of Burlington, who gave me a lot of photos and information when I was doing my first calendar and to Carol Livingstone of
Western PEI for helping me to find out which lighthouses were included in the Notice of Intention to Designate Heritage Place in the newspapers on September 3, 2012. It is interesting to discover that I had used most of them in my first calendar but I created new sketches and did more research on each of them. I used 11 of the designated lighthouses in my calendar and saved the beautiful West Point Lighthouse for place of honour on my front cover. The last one in the calendar (Rocky Point/Blockhouse) is my favourite lighthouse on PEI and I used my artistic licence to finish off the calendar
2013 Beacons of Light Calendar with that one. This year I want to dedicate my calendar to my late uncle, Ricky Dawson, who passed away on October 7, 2012. Ricky was my Mom’s brother. He taught me a lot about the courage and common sense needed to be a “person with a disability” because he was a “wheelie” after being paralysed in a train/payloader accident in 1982. He was “one of a kind” and didn’t mind giving his “opinion” on things now and then..haha. Most importantly, he showed
us how you can be faced with the most daunting life challenges and rise above them to live your “best life” possible! Keep smiling Ricky. “Know when to hold, know when to fold.” I will be at the Summerside Farmer’s Market every Saturday morning from now until Christmas so drop by to see me there or you can contact me by calling 887-2240. Jeremy J Paynter PEI Disabled Pen & Ink Sketch Artist 902-887-2240 cdawson@pei.sympatico.ca
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Token of Appreciation Presented to Deputy Mayor
The County Line Courier ~ your community newspaper
Mayor Gordon Coffin recently presented Paul Chessman with a token of appreciation in recognition of his dedicated duty and service to the residents and business owners of Kensington over the past three years in his capacity as deputy mayor. Mayor Coffin noted that with his great vision and determination, Paul has undoubtedly improved the quality of life for all residents of Kensington.
November 21, 2012
Cancer Report Cause For Concern by Andy Walker Editor, Island Farmer / Freelance journalist President, Canadian Association of Journalist, PEI Vice president, Atlantic Farm Writers Association A cancer trends report released recently by the Department of Health and Wellness should be a source of concern to every Islander. The study looks at the number of cancer cases between 1980 and 2009, and the news is not good. Back in 1980, there were 473 new cases of cancer detected. By 2009, the number of new cases annually had jumped to 835. Not surprisingly, the number of deaths attributed to the various forms of the disease also increased significantly— from 271 in 1992 to 352 in 2009. In total, one in 40 Islanders has battled cancer in the last ten years. The data comes from the provincial cancer registry. It is a vital step in getting a handle on the incidence of the deadly disease. It is virtually impossible to develop a strategy to combat rising cancer rates unless there is some hard data on how widespread the problem is. “This is an important document, using good, accurate data. It provides us with a clear, realistic picture of our current cancer rates, and it will help us to make appropri-
ate policy decisions going forward,” explained Health and Wellness Minister Doug Currie. Over half of all new cancers and cancer deaths are from lung, colorectal, prostate, and breast cancers. The mortality rate for men has actually been going down since 1980 by an average of 1 per cent. For women, the rate has actually been going up slowly by an average of 0.4 per cent annually. In 2009, Islanders had the highest incidence rate of lung cancer in the country, although the rate has been going down especially for men due to a decrease in the smoking rate. All four Atlantic provinces had higher rates of colon and rectum cancer than the rest of the country. While PEI has survival rates comparable to the rest of the country for one and three years following original detection and treatment, the survival rate is significantly lower than the rest of the country when it comes to five and ten years after the disease is first detected. The Canadian survival rate for all cancers
ten years after treatment is 57.6 per cent, while the Island rate is 51.9 per cent. That is a significant gap and the report does little to explain it. More research must be done in an attempt to pin down the reason. The issue will take on an even greater urgency next year, when unilateral changes imposed by the federal government will see PEI get less money for health care relative to wealthier provinces like Alberta and Saskatchewan. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in PEI, but fortunately it also has the highest survival rate. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. The overall incidence rate of breast cancer has increased very slowly with only an average of 0.5% each year. Again, there is a significant difference in the survival rate ten years after detection—81.7 per cent for the rest of the country compared to 73.3 per cent in PEI. On the positive side, the report notes the number of Island women being screened has increased significantly. There were 10,054 women who underwent screening last year compared to 7,579 in 2009. As disturbing as the data is, the really scary part is virtually everybody associated with
treatment and detection expects it to get worse. The rate of cancer tends to increase with age, and PEI’s population is aging. Currie maintains that is the main reason for the increase during the time of the study. While that won’t change, he said improvement detection and treatment means people are living longer with the disease. “We are going to see a high incidence of cancer in the years to come because people are getting older and age is a risk factor for cancer,” said Dr. Carol McClure, Chronic Disease Epidemiologist. “We also need to realize that Islanders have many risk factors that are contributing to the increasing number of new cases of cancer.” Currie added there have been strides made in battling some of the risk factors of cancer over the past several years including the passage of the Smoke Free Places Act, increased screening programs for colorectal and breast cancers, expanded the Cancer Treatment Centre and the cancer patient navigator program. The minister said he plans to create a task force to review the report and make recommendations on where to go from here. The report must be followed by immediate action— this is not an issue Islanders can afford to ignore.
November 21, 2012
Kensington Heritage Library
Your library Come on in!
6 Commercial Street
836-3721
Hours of Operation Tues. 9:30am to 12:30pm, 1pm to 3pm Wed. 12 noon-5pm Thurs. 2pm to 7pm Sat. 9:30-12:30pm to 1-3pm Stephenie Campbell Email: kensington@gov.pe.ca www.library.pe.ca Library Technician First of all, thanks to everyone who helped with the Rotary fund raiser for the library. The Rotarians were wonderful to work with, the Town of Kensington and its staff were, as always, a big help and support, and the donors were many and generous. What a fantastic opportunity to make the library the best it can
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Arioso Presents
be. Now the community has not only a beautiful space for the library but all-new shelving and furniture to fill it. I would like to say an even bigger thank you to the whole community of Kensington. It has truly been a pleasure and a joy to work in your community over the past six
years, and it is with deep regret that I say goodbye to all the wonderful people that I serve in the library every day. I have gotten to know so many, and have enjoyed talking about books and life with each and every one of you. Working with books, reading to children and doing puppet shows hardly seems like work, and while there is certainly a great deal more to running a library than that, those activities make the job worthwhile. The Mayor, council and staff of Kens-
ington have always been so easy to work with, so I would like to express my thanks to Geoff, Wendy, Kim, Ralph and Les for all their help. My family is embarking on a new adventure on the prairies of Saskatchewan, but we will always return to the Island. Once again, thanks for welcoming me into your town, and for making the library a warm and friendly place to work. Another familiar face, Ruth McKenna, will be the acting library technician for the next few months, and I know she will do a great job as she always does.
Annual Meeting Malpeque Historical Society Sat. December 1st
The annual meeting of the Malpeque Historical Society will be held on Saturday December 1st, 2012, at the Kensington Legion Home, Kensington at 1 p.m.. Anyone wishing to become a director on the board please speak to Michael Delaney, Malpeque Historical Society president at 836- 8929. Everyone welcome.
Once again, the group Arioso is in the midst of rehearsals for the upcoming Christmas season. For the past two years the group has presented an early December concert that many have said “eased them into the Christmas spirit beautifully”! So again they are offering a variety of old and new Christmas songs on December 8, 7PM at the Kensington United Church. The admission will be a free will offering with all proceeds going to the Malpeque Bay Credit Union’s Tree of Hope Campaign, a project aligned with the Salvation Army and Lion’s Club Christmas Hampers. Members of the group include Jennifer MacDonald, Claire Caseley-Smith, Juliana Elsinga, Meghan McCarthy, Maureen Brennan, Angela Profit and Heather Coulson. They are performing in several other pre-Christmas events as well, such as the Summerside Presbyterian Church Concert Series on Nov 25, Alberton Heritage Center Christmas Concert, and Indian River Church. Come out and support a worthy Christmas event and enjoy the gentle harmonies and melodies of the season!
Kitchen Parties Freetown United Church (Upstairs)
Tuesday 7.30 pm Light Lunch November 27 Kevin Arthur and Barry Thompson Admission applies Light Lunch included. Everyone Welcome
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Redheaded Woodpecker Stands Out In A Crowd
Spring and fall are great seasons for seeing unusual birds here on PEI. Bonnie Townsend of Souris River reported having a visit to her bird feeders by a red-headed woodpecker. Recently I heard from someone who had seen a red-bellied woodpecker. The red bellied woodpecker also has a red head but it’s not as completely red as that of the red headed woodpecker. Confused? This red headed woodpecker is a spectacular bird (although I’ve never seen one). It’s described by the website www. allaboutbirds.org as having “entirely crimson head, a snow-white body, and half white, half inky
black wings”. And on top of being such a striking creature in appearance, it turns out that it doesn’t act like a woodpecker in many ways. For one thing, it catches many insects on the wing instead of chiseling them out of tree trunks . It also eats copious amounts of acorns and beech nuts but we know that our feathered friends, the hairy and downy woodpeckers don’t limit them-
selves to insects either and are happy to feed on sunflower seeds. Now the differences between the redheaded woodpecker and others, don’t end with their catching insects in flight. They are one of only four species of woodpecker in North America that actually store food and the only one that covers the stored food. The aforementioned website tells us that they hide their food “in wood, under bark, in fence posts and under roof shingles”. Now we think it a bit rattling if our afternoon nap is disturbed by the rat-a-tat-tat of a woodpecker whacking away on a hollow tree or a
piece of stovepipe. But try to imagine how you`d feel if you went outside and saw this strikingly beautiful woodpecker carefully stowing his winter snacks under the shingles of your roof !!!! Rattling, to say the very least! It’s interesting to note that this stored food is often moved from one place to another several times before it is finally eaten in the cold months of winter. The website www. allaboutbirds.org tells us that these birds are fiercely territorial. They will take the eggs of other species from the nests and destroy the nests. They will even enter nesting boxes used by
November 21, 2012
ducks and puncture the eggs, all in aid of defending their territory. Then there was another interesting piece of information. We’ve all heard of the devastation that Dutch Elm disease caused in the 1960’s and 70’s. For the red headed woodpecker, the disease was an asset because the dead trees provided home sites for them. Trees with no bark have an advantage in that they may deter snakes from raiding their nests. The status of this bird? This website lists it as “Near Threatened”. Storing Squash How are your winter squash doing these days? Just because we call them winter squash, it doesn’t necessarily follow that we’ll be able to enjoy this most wonderful of veggies all winter without putting some effort into it. I have my winter squash (acorn and buttercup) in a garden shed nicely arranged on tables there and I’m not the only one who is keeping an eye on them, judging by the tooth marks. It’s interesting to note that my toothy visitor shows a decided preference for the acorn type while personally I prefer the buttercup (although raw, I’d have to say that I’d pass on both). Already there is evidence of some of them beginning to break down . As soon as even a single spot shows up, I take that squash into the kitchen and cook it right away. Although you have to cook the squash earlier than planned, it doesn’t necessarily follow that you have to eat it all then and there. Bag the cooked squash in meal sized portions and place in freezer.
Enjoy it later and you’ll not have to worry about there being tooth marks in it now! Winter squash store best in cool, dry conditions so it’s time to bring mine indoors now. Place the squash so that they are not touching each other and be sure to check on them at least once a week. Riot of Bloom My many Christmas Cacti (cactuses sounds better) are in full bloom right now and are exquisite. They don’t look like much for most of the year but surely do make up for lost time when they bloom. Some people tell me that these plants never bloom for them. The first thing that comes to mind is “Are they getting enough light?” Mine thrive in windows with east through north to western exposure. And I noticed again this year that plants that are rarely moved will have the side toward the window blooming first and best. Do you remember the story about the violet that I was asked to care for that ended up in the basement forgotten and un-watered for months. When I came across it, it was severely wilted so I soaked it in a big dish of water for a couple of days. Then I trimmed the best looking leaves off it and successfully rooted them in potting mix. I now have 4 nice little plants from that wilted original and one is just starting to bloom. Don’t give up readily on neglected plants! Gardening comments or questions? Drop me a line at 471 New Glasgow Road, Ebenezer, PE, C1E 0S8 or bcobb06@gmail.com.
HOL IDAY Let’s get together for some holiday cheer, for Christmas day is very near! Holiday Open House ~ Saturday, December 1st Including Scentsy Fragrance, Velata and Grace Adele Handbag & Accessories. Homemade Ole Fashion Fudge, Toffee, Caramel Cones & dog treats. 25071 Route 2, Kensington, PE Drop In Anytime Between 4pm - 9pm
November 21, 2012
Share Your Family Traditions, Stories and Recipes For many, the Christmas holiday season is a time to celebrate traditions, stories and recipes. The continuation of family traditions, new or old, are very important as family is the basis of communities; whatever the family dynamics. Family traditions also help to create strong bonds, bring a sense of belonging, commitment and familiarity with each other and, pave the way for good times, good memories and love. Family traditions also are valuable because they instill social values and contribute to maintaining close family ties. Sharing family traditions, stories and recipes also helps build quality family time, maintain strong family ties and cultivates a special con-
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QEES Playground Fund
nection between family members. Continuing family traditions is essential in enhancing family values and strengthening the bonds which tie each family. Old and newly introduced family traditions, no matter how grand or simple it is, bring about the sense of belonging, emphasizes good values and more importantly, creates happy family memories. With this in mind The County Line Courier Community Newspaper invites our readers to share their family traditions, short stories and recipes with us so we can share them with everyone else in our December editions (as space permits). Contact information for submissions is:
thecourier@eastlink.ca
Holiday Memories
ay, th d r 4 u Sat ber 2 t a vem H No KIS
Doors open at 6pm, Movie starts at 6:15pm Movie is MADAGASCAR 3 All proceeds will go towards the QEES Playground Fund. Snacks will be sold. Donations are greatly appreciated.
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2012 Lights For Life December 5 -
November 21, 2012
Remember Someone You LOVE
The 2011 display at the Prince County Hospital. On Wednesday evening December 5th at 6:30PM, all are invited to attend the 18th annual “Lights for Life” event at Prince County Hospital. As always, the community will come together to remember loved ones and celebrate the coming holiday season. When donors dedicate a light or display, in honour or in memory of someone special, they help purchase the medical equipment needed at the PCH. “This year’s ‘Lights for Life’ campaign is underway and donor packages have been mailed for 2012,” says PCH Foundation managing director Heather Matheson.
“This is a fundraiser in which everyone can participate, as there are dedication lights starting at $10. White, red, blue, green, and gold lights are available for dedication, as are various larger displays.” Returning to the lighting display this year are the Grand Arch, the Snowflakes, the Toy Train, and the Nutcrackers, among others. As always, the centerpiece of the display will be the Celebration Tree. The Credit Unions of Prince County are joining Lights for Life for the fifth year of their five year sponsorship. “Without the support of the Credit Unions,
and other sponsors, this event would not be possible. Their help ensures all proceeds go toward the purchase of priority medical equipment for Prince County Hospital,” says Matheson. Since its inception in 1995, when it raised $30,000 for the PCH, Lights for Life has blossomed into the Island’s largest holiday fundraiser. Cumulatively, this event has raised over $2 million to support new medical equipment for the Prince County Hospital. According to Matheson, “This event remains a tremendous help to the hospital last year it raised over
Air Force Assoc. Makes Donation To Prince County Hospital Recently, Phyllis Buchanan, left, president of the Air Force Association of Canada No. 200 Wing in Summerside made a donation of $1000.00 on behalf of the Wing to the Prince County Hospital Foundation. Accepting on behalf of the PCH Foundation was Les Chipperfield, member of the foundation’s Board of Directors. The gift will support the purchase of medical equipment needs listed in the foundation’s 2012 Vital Signs Annual Equipment Campaign.
$203,000. And this year, Lights for Life will help a great deal in our goal to raise $755,800 for medical equipment.” Join the Prince County Hospital Foundation on December 5th, 2012 for the “Lights for Life” celebration. To ensure your donation is included in the annual “Lights for Life” dedication book, please make your gift before Saturday November 24th at noon. Gifts to Lights for Life and other PCH Foundation projects can be made by calling the Foundation office at 432-2547, donating securely online at www. pchcare.com, or you can visit the Foundation office in the lobby at PCH. The “Lights for Life” ceremony takes place
Kelly Arsenault, left and Sandra Hall, of the PCH Foundation, place the first 2012 “Lights for Life” packages in the mail. December 5th at 6:30pm in front of the Prince County Hospital. Nearly 1500 community members join the foundation for the lighting ceremo-
ny. Gifts made before November 24th at noon will be included in the “Lights for Life dedication book handed out at the event.
Remembrance Day Service November 11 Kensington Area youth place a wreath at the base of the granite wall, etched with the names of those who served with courage to protect our freedom in times of war and in peace.
Reader’s Photos County Line Courier Community Newspaper Hungry, Hungry Chickadee Little black-capped chickadees possess lots of character. They are curious, feisty, brave little birds. Chickadees use up a huge amount of energy so it is especially important to keep feeders filled with high fat/protein food such as black oil sunflower, peanuts and suet. What food is not required immediately for activity will be stored as fat until needed. This is essential for their survival, especially in the winter months.
A hungry chickadee at feeder
Amazing Blooms and Weather For November Debbie Hinchey couldn’t believe her eyes when she came home from school on Friday, November 2 and saw these vibrant yellow lilies. Debbie relates that they weren’t there when she left in the morning but, had literally opened up in all their glory during the day. photo Stella Hagen
photo Debbie Hinchey
November 21, 2012 Library cont’d from p. 1 wheelchair accessibility, new state-of-the-art shelving which is adjustable, moveable and slanted, which allows for easier viewing and restocking, a new computer, keyboard and mouse for those who find using a standard keyboard difficult to use, comfortable new tables/chairs and, new computer desks which allow for greater public access. The addition of the large keyboard and mouse makes locating letters much easier and, the easy to use mouse provides an easy and effective way to move the mouse cursor across the screen. Both these items are a valuable tool for users who lack visual or fine motor skills which a regular keyboard and
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Coming Together To Support The Kensington Heritage Library
At the end of the month Stephenie Campbell, Heritage Library Branch Technician, and her family will be relocating to Saskatchewan. With this in mind Councillor Rowan Caseley and Library Board member Ivan Gallant presented Ms Campbell with a Certificate and bouquet of flowers for her years of dedicated service to the Kensington Heritage Library. mouse requires. Also featured was a large wooden plaque, crafted by Rotarians Cathy and Billy Gallant, highlighting the names of supporters who helped
with donations for the project. Future plans include the installation of air conditioning for the comfort of patrons in the summer months.
The Kensington Heritage Library is truly a community centre, where people of all ages come not only to get books but to visit with their neighbours, to see a friendly face and to participate in their community life The success of the library is due to the cooperation and partnership between: the province of Prince Edward Island, who provides the books, computers and staff; the Summerside Rotary Club, whose fundraiser made possible a number of important upgrades and, many area supporters who made generous donations. Invited guests included The Hon. Wes Sheridan, Harry Holman-Director of Culture, Heritage and Libraries PEI, Nelson Snow-President of the Summerside Rotary Club, MC Wayne Carew-Rotarian, and area supporters of the Kensington Library project who gave donations. The library, open 20 hours per week, is one of the busiest rural branches per capita on the Island with over 1000 users. It is home to about 10,000 items which includes books, eBooks, movies, board games and DVDs, changing regularly according to the needs
Town of Kensington Mayor Gordon Coffin along with Ivan Gallant-Library Board member present a Certificate of Appreciation to Nelson Show, member of the Summerside Rotary Club, for their contribution of time and effort in improving the Kensington Heritage Library, their dedication to library development and ensuring that the library is accesible to all. of patrons. More than 2000 children a year attend programs at the Kensington Library, including twiceweekly literacy story times, puppet shows and craft programs. Last summer’s Summer Reading Club had 130 children enrolled. The library also provides summer employment for youth and opportunities for youth to volunteer for class credit and Community Service Bursary hours, within walking distance of
school. The library provides public computer access with computers and wireless connection. It is not uncommon in the summer months for all three stations to be in use, with as many as three of four other tourists using the wireless. Other programs include an adult book club and also an opportunity for special needs students from KISH to come in every week to practice life skills, choose books, and use the computers.
What’s a party without cake! The Open House concluded with everyone enjoying a piece of delicious cake.
Members of the Senior Book Club attend Library Open House. L-R: Marcia Kendall-Sr. Book Club member, Joan Zinn-Sr. Book Club member, Norma Collier-Public Library Service Branch Supervisor, Elizabeth Aitken-Sr. Book Club member and Stephenie Campbell-Branch Technician.
A large wooden plaque was unveiled listing the many generous supporters who helped with the library project.
November 21, 2012
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The Cadet Experience FUN - CHALLENGE - FRIENDS
1231 Kensington Army Cadets
Captain Tracy Enman, Commanding Officer of 1231 Kensington Army Cadets congratulates Justin Arsenault on his new appointment as RSM and his promotion to the rank of Warrant Officer
Cadet Stuart Gerus was in Ottawa this past Remembrance Day where he attended the service at the Beechwood Cemetary along with the 2804 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps.
1231 Kensington RACC’s former and prsent RSM.
W ishing You A Happy 98th
L-R: 2Lt Melissa Gallant, OCdt Josh Wruck, CWO Kaci Holmes and WO Justin Arsenault.
Outgoing RSM Kaci Homes passes the drill cane to 1231 Kensington’s new RSM WO Justin Arsenault.
W hich Is As Special As You
In celebration of Kathleen (Neen) Gillis [seated] 98th Birthday, November 25, from longtime friend Jo-Anna Roach [standing]. Kathleen resides at Kensington Community Care Home, Broadway St. and loves to have visitors. Following is one of her favorite poems.
HOME TO THE ISLAND Too long has my heart been far away, from the island’s hills and the lanes red clay Too many summers have passed me by, from the place by the Church where my fathers’ lay The Winters have stretched into countless years, with their laughing hours and poignant tears While I searched thru the halls of tinsled pleasure for the untold worth of the island’s treasure Blue from the sky that reflects on the sea, as the moon’s white path that beckons me The whispering winds in the scented pines, on the meadow where Indian River winds Too many years have come and gone, since my eyes have seen the island’s dawn With the sky all tinted a pastel rose, and a taste of salt on the breeze that blows Too long have I missed the close of day, when the sun sinks into Malpeque Bay and the stove is warm with a friendly glow that only the island’s kitchens know The sun drenched farms and the fields of hay with the sound of calves and lambs at play Long have I wandered on distant shores, knocking on gilded unfriendly doors While those on the island were open to me and never barred tight or locked with a key Long have I sought for the friendly hand that was here for the taking on the island’s land For I blinded my eyes with the city’s lights and their teeming streets and blaring lights While the Master of Painters in the evenings hush painted the island with a magic brush But I know of the things I’ve missed on this bit of land that the Angels kissed For I’m back to the fields and rivers and highlands I’m home once again on Prince Edward Island!!!
November 21, 2012
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QEES Team Provincial Champions Free Course In Swedish Weaving
L-R:Renata Wigmore - Coach, Abby Christopher, Hillary MacLean, Marilyn Sheen, Maggie Johnston and Callie Champion. Missing from photo Kelsey Weeks and Heidi Lauwerijssen. Queen Elizabeth Elementary School had a terrific season of cross country runnitn with 25 students qualifying for the Provincial competition. For the second year in a row the Novice Girls have captured first place and are the PROVINCIAL WINNERS! CONGRATULATIONS!
The L.E.A.P. is sponsored by the P.E.I. Seniors’ Federation and is funded by the PEI Government under the Department of Tourism and Culture of Hon. Robert Henderson. All seniors of Kensington and Area may register to participate in a Swedish Weaving course by calling Ruby@ 836-5613.Only 10 of those names registered will be drawn for by someone outside the membership of the club. (The funding only allows for supplies for ten people.) Successful applicants will be notified by phone. The free course of 10 sessions will be starting on Wednesday, November 28 at 1:00 p.m. at the Seniors’ Centre at 25 A Garden Drive, Kensington. Sessions are of 2 hours duration. Although you may not be a successful candidate, you are welcome to come and observe the course in action.
L-R: Ruby Cousins, representative of the Senior Surfers Club of Kensington & Area, Linda Jean Nicholson, Executive Director of the P.E.I. Seniors’ Federation and Audrey Glover, Artist Instructor are shown signing a contract for a L.E.A.P.(Learning Elders Arts Program) between the Senior Surfers Club and the P.E.I. Seniors’ Federation for a free course in Swedish Weaving to be offered at Kensington beginning in late November.
Happy 80th Birthday We would like to invite family and friends to help Gladys Burt celebrate her 80th Birthday. Sunday, December 9th 2 to 4pm at St. Thomas Church Hall Spring Brook.
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Our Community Churches Events Calendar
St. Mary’s Holy Family Roman Catholic Parish Kensington Father Joe Brazel Masses: Saturday: 7:00pm Sunday: 9:30am Clinton View Lodge: every first Friday.
Kensington New London Presbyterian Church Rev Alan Stewart Services for Kensington New London Presbyterian Churches:
Prayer Service at Clinton View Lodge every second Wed. at 1pm. Fellowship: Last Sunday of the month following Mass in the parish centre. Meetings: Knights of Columbus: Second Monday of the month at 8pm. Catholic Women’s League: Second Tuesday of the month at 7pm. Spiritual Meditation: Each Monday evening 6:30 to 7:30pm All are WELCOME. NOTE: Community Variety Concert December 7 CANCELLED.
Sunday School during the service. November 25 11:00am Kensington Worship 9:30am New London Worship December 2nd 9:30am Kensington Worship 11:00am New London Worship Bible Study -10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays Open to all men and women.
Kensington Nazarene Community Church 47 Victoria St., Kensington Pastor Ray Hinchey •Worship Meeting: Sunday 11:00 a.m. •Adult Study and Discussion Group Wednesday 7:00 p.m. •Gospel Music Concert Sat., November 24, 7pm at 47 Victoria Street Featuring: Ruth & Therin Smallman, Wanda & Willie Dunbar, Rodney Savidant, April Greenier, Robert Gamble. Free will offering will be taken for local Christas Ministry Support Refreshment For info please contact Pastor Ray Hinchey @ 439-1951
Kensington Community Church Pastor Gene Carson Where: Mt. Zion Masonic Lodge Victoria Street Kensington Every Sunday Evening at 6:30pm Pastor Gene Carson RR1 Kensington, PEI, C0B 1M0 Tel: (902) 836-5220 CSSM Ministries
Margate Pastoral Charge Rev. Anne Dalziel Singer Princetown United Church Southwest River United Church
Sunday worship: 9:30 a.m. - Princetown 11:00 a.m. - Southwest River **Nov. 22 - 7 p.m. - P.E.I. Presbytery meets at Southwest River Church. **Princetown Church’s Tree of Hope is collecting gifts for those in need. **Plans are underway for a Christmas concert at Southwest River Church on Sunday evening, December 16.
1st Kensington Venturers
Venturers are willing to pick up pop cans, pop bottles, juice containers and liquor bottles. All funds raised will be used for program activities
FUNDRAISER Venturers will pick them up at your residence anytime! In Malpeque area call Treina Lockhart @ 836-3899 for a pick up. In Spring Valley area call Ashton Cole @ 836-5108 for a pick up. Or, to set up a schedule for on-going pick ups.
November 21, 2012
Right Here - Right Now “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.” Genesis: 28:16 NKJV
Kensington United Church of Canada Rev. Robert McCarthy November 25 – 9:30 – Senior Sunday School and Handbell Choir practice, new members welcome 10:30 – Worship & Sunday School December 2 – Following worship there will be a bake sale and cake auction at the Murray Christian Education Centre. We invite you to join us for any of our regular programs that are listed on our website For updated information and to view all our programs,check out our website at www.kensingtonunited.ca <http://www.kensingtonunited.ca>
Anglican Parish of New London Rev. Margie Fagan
Sunday worship November 25: 9 a.m. - St. Thomas’ 11 a.m. - St. Stephen’s & St. Mark’s Dec: 9 a.m. - St. Mark’s 11 a.m. - St. Thomas’ & St. Stephen’s Thurs., Nov. 22 10 a.m. - Bible Study at St. Mark’s Sun., Dec. 2 7 p.m. - St. Mark’s “Hanging of the Greens” Friday, Dec. 7 - Country Christmas House Tour
Lauretta Balderston free-lance writer Everywhere there are twinkling lights and green wreaths decorated with red bows and shimmering silver baubles appearing on downtown streets and in the windows. There is an unmistakable sense of expectancy and longing in the air. We can’t help but feel it when we are out and about. It’s a contagious joy that spreads over our communities and erupts in smiles on faces of strangers as they meet one another. Even though it happens every year, we are still caught up in the wonder of the approaching season of expectation. This is a season of hope, of peace, of joy and most of all- love. We can’t help it- we all want to believe that in the midst of all the negative news we hear, that life is still good and we are part of that good! “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” Genesis28:16 (NIV) We had a curious cat who was enthralled with boxes, be they small or large, plain or colourful. She would sniff it, pounce on it, wrap her little paws around it and try hard to open any box that found its way into our home. Her little eyes would glow with happiness once she had gotten the lid off just enough and was herself inside the box peering out at usshe had achieved her goal and conquered that box! The season of Advent is like that box that taunts us with what we may find inside if we can get the lid off. How will I prepare for what is to come next? How will you prepare for what is to come next? Seeing a child grasp a new and noisy toy may remind us of a time when we too dared to reach out and try something new
or different. Looking at the flickering lights may take us back to a time when we too felt warmed by someone’s caring love for us, and ours for them. Watching the smiles on faces as they meet for a quick greeting, hug or coffee may inspire us to get in touch with a neighbour or colleague from yesteryear and share memories of a kinder time in our past. Allowing ourselves to feel the expectancy of what is coming may bring us peace and help us see the possibilities and opportunities for a brighter tomorrow and that are in our reach now. “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.” Genesis28:16 (NKJV) The Advent season is a time for hope in a better tomorrow. It is a time for letting go of the hurts and pain we have experienced and for healing the conflicts of the past. It is a time for allowing the God of the past, present and future to fill our hearts, minds and spirits with hope, joy, peace and most of all- love- His love! Let’s carefully take the lid off the box this Advent season and, like our curious little kitty, put ourselves right inside the box- become part of the wonder of the season. We too will then be able to say with Jacob after his enlightening dream: “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” Genesis28:16 (NIV) Our journey of faith is exciting and filled with the wonders of what we may find if we let go of all our fears and let God show us that He is with us- here- right now. Let’s pray to be aware that He is in this place and we know it!