That isn't what I heard from where I was sitting.
We would know if their version is right...if only someone had thought to tape record the meeting.....
Monday, January 23, 2012
UPDATE FROM HIGHLANDS APPEARANCE AT COUNCIL
Here is THEIR version of events. http://www.melancthonquarry.ca/index.php/site/latest/questions_and_answers_highland_companies_representatives_january_12_2012
That isn't what I heard from where I was sitting.
We would know if their version is right...if only someone had thought to tape record the meeting.....
That isn't what I heard from where I was sitting.
We would know if their version is right...if only someone had thought to tape record the meeting.....
Sunday, January 22, 2012
SOUTHGATE SHITUATION UPDATE
Public Information Meetings to inform citizens of where citizens of the actions of Southgate Council and information on the Eco Park.
This is a combined effort of both the "Concerned Citizens of Southgate" (CCOS), and the "Southgate Public Interest and Research Group" (SPIRG)
Don't read the words Southgate and think it doesn't concern you.
Better find out where the haul route is because this proposal involves transporting offal and human sewage in trucks that require no more coverage than tarping.
Feb.1st - Highpoint School at 7:30pm
Feb.2nd - Holstein Optimist Centre at 7:30pm
This is a combined effort of both the "Concerned Citizens of Southgate" (CCOS), and the "Southgate Public Interest and Research Group" (SPIRG)
Don't read the words Southgate and think it doesn't concern you.
Better find out where the haul route is because this proposal involves transporting offal and human sewage in trucks that require no more coverage than tarping.
Feb.1st - Highpoint School at 7:30pm
Feb.2nd - Holstein Optimist Centre at 7:30pm
SO LONG
Just wanted to acknowledge the retirement of Helen McKelvie and her column Town and Country.
Happy retirement Helen and thanks for all the news over the years.
You were Shelburne's original "blogger"!!
Happy retirement Helen and thanks for all the news over the years.
You were Shelburne's original "blogger"!!
UPCOMING MEETING
From the facebook site:
Main Topic: Environmental Assessment
When: Saturday, February 4, 2012
Time: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: North Dufferin Recreation Centre (Honeywood Arena), Upstairs in the Norduff Room, Honeywood, ON
As always, there will be time for questions.
Speakers:
Laura Bowman (from Iler Campbell LLP Barristers & Solicitors) - will speak about the Environmental Assessment
Mackenzie Rutledge (grade 7 student) - will give her speech on the proposed Mega Quarry
Melancthon Mayor Bill Hill - will briefly speak about which stage the township is, in this issue
Bruce Davidson - will speak about the Walkerton water disaster
And this thanks is issued in all sincerity to Mayor of Melancthon for taking the time to speak at the meeting. It is truly appreciated by all.
Main Topic: Environmental Assessment
When: Saturday, February 4, 2012
Time: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: North Dufferin Recreation Centre (Honeywood Arena), Upstairs in the Norduff Room, Honeywood, ON
As always, there will be time for questions.
Speakers:
Laura Bowman (from Iler Campbell LLP Barristers & Solicitors) - will speak about the Environmental Assessment
Mackenzie Rutledge (grade 7 student) - will give her speech on the proposed Mega Quarry
Melancthon Mayor Bill Hill - will briefly speak about which stage the township is, in this issue
Bruce Davidson - will speak about the Walkerton water disaster
And this thanks is issued in all sincerity to Mayor of Melancthon for taking the time to speak at the meeting. It is truly appreciated by all.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
HERE IS HOPING
At the Melancthon Council meeting at which Lowndes finally appeared in the flesh, albeit surrounded by hired suits and a couple of locals who Highlands thinks will generate some community buy-in based on their family names (one will, the other definitely NOT), the following article appeared in the Orangeville Banner:
http://www.orangeville.com/news/local/article/1280599--highland-sitting-on-the-fence-regarding-potential-omb-bill
It was written by reporter Bill Tremblay.
In a column written in the same issue by Bill, he noted:
Melancthon’s council has decided to ban all audio and video recording as well as still image cameras from their public or open meetings. According to Mayor Bill Hill, the decision to ban recording stems from a dishonest video editor, who twisted council words into false statements. (minebuster note: really, lets have some disclosure, exactly when and where did that happen?)
The policy is a disservice to Melancthon residents. Council’s are elected to represent their constituents, not broadly punish everyone as a failsafe to their own reputation. The Highland quarry is a contentious issue and I’m certain others would have liked the opportunity to record their answers for further analysis or to share with others. (minebusters note: you are SO right) Hill said Highland’s answer would be posted to the municipal website, but nearly a week later, I can’t seem to find them. http://www.orangeville.com/opinion/columns/article/1281603--don-t-punish-everyone-for-mistakes-of-a-few
Funny thing is, Highlands reps have been taping NDACT public meetings for years now and NDACT doesn't seem to have a problem with video editor's twisting their words into false statements.
And the Mayor sits at County Council where tape recording goes on all the time and I have yet to hear that the County's words are twisted.
I am glad someone other than the ratepayers have raised this issue, particularly that Melancthon residents deserve better, because Council has not been listening to their ratepayers.
Hopefully with a third party Council might start to see that this is a new century where open data is just that, data for each to disseminate on their own.
That way, people wouldn't have to rely on this stupid freaking blog for information. And in my opinion that would be the biggest benefit to all.
http://www.orangeville.com/news/local/article/1280599--highland-sitting-on-the-fence-regarding-potential-omb-bill
It was written by reporter Bill Tremblay.
In a column written in the same issue by Bill, he noted:
Melancthon’s council has decided to ban all audio and video recording as well as still image cameras from their public or open meetings. According to Mayor Bill Hill, the decision to ban recording stems from a dishonest video editor, who twisted council words into false statements. (minebuster note: really, lets have some disclosure, exactly when and where did that happen?)
The policy is a disservice to Melancthon residents. Council’s are elected to represent their constituents, not broadly punish everyone as a failsafe to their own reputation. The Highland quarry is a contentious issue and I’m certain others would have liked the opportunity to record their answers for further analysis or to share with others. (minebusters note: you are SO right) Hill said Highland’s answer would be posted to the municipal website, but nearly a week later, I can’t seem to find them. http://www.orangeville.com/opinion/columns/article/1281603--don-t-punish-everyone-for-mistakes-of-a-few
Funny thing is, Highlands reps have been taping NDACT public meetings for years now and NDACT doesn't seem to have a problem with video editor's twisting their words into false statements.
And the Mayor sits at County Council where tape recording goes on all the time and I have yet to hear that the County's words are twisted.
I am glad someone other than the ratepayers have raised this issue, particularly that Melancthon residents deserve better, because Council has not been listening to their ratepayers.
Hopefully with a third party Council might start to see that this is a new century where open data is just that, data for each to disseminate on their own.
That way, people wouldn't have to rely on this stupid freaking blog for information. And in my opinion that would be the biggest benefit to all.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
FROM THE DEATH AND DUST BLOG
An excerpt from a blog showing what can happen....in Ontario....
To my friends who are fighting against the Mega Quarry
With what has happened concerning my small stand against what happened to my wife and myself I only wish to say.
From the moment that my dear late wife and I began to complain about the gravel pit, where are home was located we were met with total unwillingness to help. I still remember the propaganda offered in their own brochures put out by the MNR. We asked the MNR in a polite and civil way if we could find some ground where both parties could find a solution to our complaint. That was met with unwillingness to do anything. In wanting to sell the right away that separated two pits we stated our objection and views. We asked the township for an environmental assessment which we were denied. We spoke directly to the gravel pit owner who assured us he would mitigate the dust, he did nothing. After my wife died I called Kingston MOE twice, I never received a return call. I sent a letter to Premier McGuinty I received a reply that stated"Mr. Cressey, my colleagues and I continue to echo our belief that our province’s high quality of life and sustainable economic growth are contingent upon strong environmental protection. That is why it is a priority of this government. We understand that all Ontarians deserve to live and work in clean, safe communities – communities in which the environment contributes to our health and well-being."
The Ministry of the Environment stated"The photographs and videos of the quarry that you provided, along with your wife’s journal entries have been helpful in understanding the conditions at the site during the time of your concerns. As you may know this quarry is licenced by the MNR and must comply with several licencing conditions including a requirement to manage dust."
The MNR’s response reminded the operator of his obligations under the aggregate resources act and the environmental protection act.
I objected to that decision and filed an affidavit . Stating that we were given assurances by the gravel pit owner that he would mitigate the dust.
A crusher was put in front of our home that just sent us into total insanity with noise and dust.
The Township refused in any way to deal with the complaint we were told" they can do anything they want from 6:00 am. till 9:00 pm"
It has been two years now since my wife passed away and in that time all that was ever done was a charge of failing to have a Certificate of Authorization to crush on this site. The outcome of that was a plea bargain with the MNR Prosecutor which resulted in "The MNR prosecutor reviewed all your video/photo evidence and as you know,, there was a plea agreement made prior to court which resulted in Crains' Construction Ltd pleading guilty and was fined $1000.00. Thanks for your evidence and willingness to be a witness....
Entire blog here:
http://deathanddustmystory.blogspot.com/p/to-my-friends-who-are-fighting-against.html
To my friends who are fighting against the Mega Quarry
With what has happened concerning my small stand against what happened to my wife and myself I only wish to say.
From the moment that my dear late wife and I began to complain about the gravel pit, where are home was located we were met with total unwillingness to help. I still remember the propaganda offered in their own brochures put out by the MNR. We asked the MNR in a polite and civil way if we could find some ground where both parties could find a solution to our complaint. That was met with unwillingness to do anything. In wanting to sell the right away that separated two pits we stated our objection and views. We asked the township for an environmental assessment which we were denied. We spoke directly to the gravel pit owner who assured us he would mitigate the dust, he did nothing. After my wife died I called Kingston MOE twice, I never received a return call. I sent a letter to Premier McGuinty I received a reply that stated"Mr. Cressey, my colleagues and I continue to echo our belief that our province’s high quality of life and sustainable economic growth are contingent upon strong environmental protection. That is why it is a priority of this government. We understand that all Ontarians deserve to live and work in clean, safe communities – communities in which the environment contributes to our health and well-being."
The Ministry of the Environment stated"The photographs and videos of the quarry that you provided, along with your wife’s journal entries have been helpful in understanding the conditions at the site during the time of your concerns. As you may know this quarry is licenced by the MNR and must comply with several licencing conditions including a requirement to manage dust."
The MNR’s response reminded the operator of his obligations under the aggregate resources act and the environmental protection act.
I objected to that decision and filed an affidavit . Stating that we were given assurances by the gravel pit owner that he would mitigate the dust.
A crusher was put in front of our home that just sent us into total insanity with noise and dust.
The Township refused in any way to deal with the complaint we were told" they can do anything they want from 6:00 am. till 9:00 pm"
It has been two years now since my wife passed away and in that time all that was ever done was a charge of failing to have a Certificate of Authorization to crush on this site. The outcome of that was a plea bargain with the MNR Prosecutor which resulted in "The MNR prosecutor reviewed all your video/photo evidence and as you know,, there was a plea agreement made prior to court which resulted in Crains' Construction Ltd pleading guilty and was fined $1000.00. Thanks for your evidence and willingness to be a witness....
Entire blog here:
http://deathanddustmystory.blogspot.com/p/to-my-friends-who-are-fighting-against.html
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
DESPERATE TIMES CALL FOR DESPERATE MEASURES
CFRB had a commercial on today from the Ontario Sand and Gravel Association.
They should think about advertising on Goldhawk too (hee, hee)
They should think about advertising on Goldhawk too (hee, hee)
ENTIRE ECONOMIC BENEFIT TO MELANCTHON IF HIGHLAND'S DOES THE BIG DIG
Mayor Bill Hill asked what financial benefits the quarry would bring aside from employment.
(Minebuster Note: employment are 300 truck driving jobs eventually and another 150 over the 100 year life of the quarry)
“We would continue our corporate sponsorship,” Scherer said, adding the quarry would create economic spin-offs. (Minebusters Note: economic spin offs include jobs in other countries who make things to enable them to dig the hole, money that Baupost share holders make and can spend on private yachts and stuff, there is no limit to the economic spin offs-no truth either, just no limit)
Hokey smokes, start digging the hole, we really need their corporate sponsorship as we were on the verge of collapsing as a community before they slinked into our midst.
What has been their corporate sponsorship to date?
A failed YMCA bid
A clock at the Honeywood arena
Offering housing to a physician that the recruitment committee might land to work in Dufferin and to date not one single physician has ever lived in a Highlands house (the ones that haven't been demolished)
Sponsoring some sports teams......
Money to "assist" with the renovation of Hornings Mills Hall-despite the fact Highlands could have purchased an elevator and paid for the monthly inspection fees forever out of Seth Klarman's pocket money
Funding a study to identify ways of reducing snowdrifting on County Road 124 (note this was NEVER released to the public so not sure how this is helpful to anyone except Highlands)
blah, blah, blah
(Minebuster Note: employment are 300 truck driving jobs eventually and another 150 over the 100 year life of the quarry)
“We would continue our corporate sponsorship,” Scherer said, adding the quarry would create economic spin-offs. (Minebusters Note: economic spin offs include jobs in other countries who make things to enable them to dig the hole, money that Baupost share holders make and can spend on private yachts and stuff, there is no limit to the economic spin offs-no truth either, just no limit)
Hokey smokes, start digging the hole, we really need their corporate sponsorship as we were on the verge of collapsing as a community before they slinked into our midst.
What has been their corporate sponsorship to date?
A failed YMCA bid
A clock at the Honeywood arena
Offering housing to a physician that the recruitment committee might land to work in Dufferin and to date not one single physician has ever lived in a Highlands house (the ones that haven't been demolished)
Sponsoring some sports teams......
Money to "assist" with the renovation of Hornings Mills Hall-despite the fact Highlands could have purchased an elevator and paid for the monthly inspection fees forever out of Seth Klarman's pocket money
Funding a study to identify ways of reducing snowdrifting on County Road 124 (note this was NEVER released to the public so not sure how this is helpful to anyone except Highlands)
blah, blah, blah
Monday, January 16, 2012
COMMENTS
Complaints galore.
If you are having trouble viewing comments you have to delete your cookies and browsing history.
This task is not for the faint of heart and I don't know much about it, other than to say ask someone before you do it.
You find the delete history and cookies somewhere on your internet browser.
Make sure you are only deleting cookies and history, not all your favourites, passwords, etc. etc.
Godspeed!!
IF this doesn't solve the problem and you still can't view comments, it may be because after today's meltdown all comments are on moderation-I will review before they are posted.
That is the beauty of having your own blog-I get to be the decider.
If you are having trouble viewing comments you have to delete your cookies and browsing history.
This task is not for the faint of heart and I don't know much about it, other than to say ask someone before you do it.
You find the delete history and cookies somewhere on your internet browser.
Make sure you are only deleting cookies and history, not all your favourites, passwords, etc. etc.
Godspeed!!
IF this doesn't solve the problem and you still can't view comments, it may be because after today's meltdown all comments are on moderation-I will review before they are posted.
That is the beauty of having your own blog-I get to be the decider.
COMMENTS REMOVED
This is NOT an NDACT site.
If you have questions, comments or accusations for NDACT, please direct them to NDACT. http://www.ndact.com/
If you have questions, comments or accusations for NDACT, please direct them to NDACT. http://www.ndact.com/
Sunday, January 15, 2012
ONE FLEW UNDER THE RADAR
In all the excitement about Lowndes showing up in the flesh to the January 12, 2012 Melancthon Council meeting, the long awaited Official Plan update from the contract planner was missed.
Remember, we were promised his report in November, then December, then the first meeting in January 2012.
Nada, nothing.
Can someone remind me how Melancthon taxpayers pay $100,000 a year for his services?
No transparency-no reports, no invoices etc.
And no output, except for the bills he generates to Melancthon.
Remember, we were promised his report in November, then December, then the first meeting in January 2012.
Nada, nothing.
Can someone remind me how Melancthon taxpayers pay $100,000 a year for his services?
No transparency-no reports, no invoices etc.
And no output, except for the bills he generates to Melancthon.
Saturday, January 14, 2012
HOW MANY SUITS DOES IT TAKE
How many suits does it take for Highlands to persuade anyone that what they are doing it good and for everyone's benefit?
Well more than what showed up at the Melancthon Council meeting on January 12, 2012.
The general consensus is Melancthon Council asked all the right questions.
The answers provided by Highlands were more of the same old, same old.
Lowndes did, however, state that HE and Baupost were the ONLY investors in the project.
Well more than what showed up at the Melancthon Council meeting on January 12, 2012.
The general consensus is Melancthon Council asked all the right questions.
The answers provided by Highlands were more of the same old, same old.
Lowndes did, however, state that HE and Baupost were the ONLY investors in the project.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
WORD TO THE WISE
Quote from a much more astute and intelligent blogger than Minebuster:
Pleasing Your Enemies
Does Not Turn Them Into Friends
Source: http://www.smalldeadanimals.com/
Pleasing Your Enemies
Does Not Turn Them Into Friends
Source: http://www.smalldeadanimals.com/
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
PREPARE TO BE AMAZED
On Thursday January 12 at 11.30 am, be prepared to be amazed.
For on that day, you will see a sight more rare than the Chupacabra or a Ford without rust.
You will see John Lowndes, in the flesh at a Melancthon Council meeting.
He has finally decided to take Council up on their invitation issued two years ago so that Highlands can do some explaining about "their" economic vision for Melancthon.
For those of you who aren't sure what to look for, here he is, in the flesh:
But beware, he is a master of disguise. Here are some recent characters he has assumed.
And these two (wise) guys will be there too. Someone had to drive the car and someone else had to open the car door.
For those of you who want to attend the whole meeting, there are some other interesting tidbits on the agenda.
Page 29-35: Nice to see council is not being pushed around by wind developers
Page 41: Anyone find a sliver lamprey in Melancthon it may help to stop the quarry. (NOTE, but the real deal, not the plentiful Highlands no spine lamprey seen in most photo opportunities in the local papers.)
Page 54: NVCA update on their review of Highlands quarry application. Wonder why Highlands is submitting an updated computer model which predicts future groundwater conditions with the quarry in place. Didn’t they have it right the first time?
Page 55: Copy of Tilson’s letter to Peter Kent re Federal review
Click here for link to agenda:
http://melancthontownship.ca/12council/agenda.jan12.pdf
Monday, January 9, 2012
ANOTHER HEDGE FUND WHO THINKS THEY OWN THE WORLD
A US hedge fund who holds a 14.2% stake in CP is demanding Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd.’s oust their CEO.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-investor/cp-directors-back-ceo-amid-activist-criticism/article2295860/
And while we are on the subject of hedge funds who think they own the world, or at least Melancthon, the article titled "Was Baupost’s Mega-Quarry Investment A Mega-Mistake?' states that The Boston-based hedge fund owns a rumored 16% stake in the project, which has more than $40B in gross revenue potential. http://www.valuewalk.com/2012/01/21634/#.TwZJ-jX2a8A
So if Baupost owns 16%, who owns the other 84%?
In the Toronto Star article the locals were blamed for selling without asking questions. Here is the quote from Joseph Izhakoff: “To the extent they asked us, we said we were going to do farming; and we said there are other alternatives; and the question is, how much more did they ask?” says Izhakoff.
http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1108875--anatomy-of-a-quarry-fight
Shame on us lokal yokals for NOT asking for the truth instead we trusted what Highlands, Bruce and ole Mavis Wilson and Trevor Downey told us: world's biggest potato operation.
So lets not make that mistake AGAIN.
Start firing away the emails to any and all of these addresses and ASK who owns the other 84% of Highlands.
lindsay.broadhead@hillandknowlton.ca
bruce.wilson@zing-net.ca
inquiry@baupost.com
inquiries@highlandcompanies.ca
charnick@yorkstreet.ca
charnick@counselpa.com
cpinto@counselpa.com
blopinski@counselpa.com
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-investor/cp-directors-back-ceo-amid-activist-criticism/article2295860/
And while we are on the subject of hedge funds who think they own the world, or at least Melancthon, the article titled "Was Baupost’s Mega-Quarry Investment A Mega-Mistake?' states that The Boston-based hedge fund owns a rumored 16% stake in the project, which has more than $40B in gross revenue potential. http://www.valuewalk.com/2012/01/21634/#.TwZJ-jX2a8A
So if Baupost owns 16%, who owns the other 84%?
In the Toronto Star article the locals were blamed for selling without asking questions. Here is the quote from Joseph Izhakoff: “To the extent they asked us, we said we were going to do farming; and we said there are other alternatives; and the question is, how much more did they ask?” says Izhakoff.
http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1108875--anatomy-of-a-quarry-fight
Shame on us lokal yokals for NOT asking for the truth instead we trusted what Highlands, Bruce and ole Mavis Wilson and Trevor Downey told us: world's biggest potato operation.
So lets not make that mistake AGAIN.
Start firing away the emails to any and all of these addresses and ASK who owns the other 84% of Highlands.
lindsay.broadhead@hillandknowlton.ca
bruce.wilson@zing-net.ca
inquiry@baupost.com
inquiries@highlandcompanies.ca
charnick@yorkstreet.ca
charnick@counselpa.com
cpinto@counselpa.com
blopinski@counselpa.com
Saturday, January 7, 2012
GOOD INFORMATION
There is a good update on the http://www.ndact.com/ website titled
"Where Are We Now With the Environmental Assessment"
Read about it at this link:
http://www.ndact.com/index.php/54-front-page/320-january-2012-where-are-we-now-with-the-environmental-assessment
"Where Are We Now With the Environmental Assessment"
Read about it at this link:
http://www.ndact.com/index.php/54-front-page/320-january-2012-where-are-we-now-with-the-environmental-assessment
Thursday, January 5, 2012
SETH HUMANIZED CONTINUED
Seth has experienced loss-both of his parents, Mom Muriel and Father Herbert have passed away.
His mother in law Frances Schultz is also deceased.
He has a brother Michael who is a lawyer.
Michael and his wife, who is also a lawyer, live in Julia Child's former home.
His wife's sisters are named Deborah and Ruth.
Growing up he and his brother each had a cat and his was named Phoebus. His brother's cat was named Percy.
http://www.lawweekly.org/?module=displaystory&story_id=2031&edition_id=87&format=html
And he is a published author:
http://www.my10000dollars.com/MS.pdf
All true. Google it.
His mother in law Frances Schultz is also deceased.
He has a brother Michael who is a lawyer.
Michael and his wife, who is also a lawyer, live in Julia Child's former home.
His wife's sisters are named Deborah and Ruth.
Growing up he and his brother each had a cat and his was named Phoebus. His brother's cat was named Percy.
http://www.lawweekly.org/?module=displaystory&story_id=2031&edition_id=87&format=html
And he is a published author:
http://www.my10000dollars.com/MS.pdf
All true. Google it.
DELICIOUS ARTICLE TO DEVOUR
I have picked out the best quotes from the article titled:
WAS BAUPOST'S MEGA INVESTMENT A MEGA MISTAKE
If you wish to skip my delightful and always insightful analysis, skip to the end and click on the link.
Otherwise, hold on to your hat and here we go:
...which showed signs of mismanagement since the beginning, if not from a project viability perspective, certainly with respect to PR....
Numerous missteps in the wake of the proposal filing in the Spring of 2011 prompted Highland to fire spokesman Michael Daniher, replacing him with Lindsay Broadhead of the PR Firm Hill & Knowlton.
Broadhead may not be faring much better in light of a new set of inflammatory claims, having asserted that the project “simply can’t have a negative environmental impact”
A quick glance at Highland’s own web site continues in the same ingratiating vein
This hubris is problematic not least of all for stretching what most people would consider reasonable truth, but also for its tonal discord with the sentiment of the community.
Its most egregious offenses have been myriad “no environmental impact” statements that few logical people would believe are true.
A final factor stripping investor value away from the project is the domino effect of negative buzz, made highly visible by the grassroots efforts of social media savvy opponents.
One Facebook group, aptly named “Stop The Quarry!,” has upwards of 5,000 followers, and has done a better job of besmirching the project’s image than has official spokesperson Lindsay Broadhead of bolstering it.
AH hell, the entire article is great, click here and read it for yourself....http://www.valuewalk.com/2012/01/21634/#.TwZJ-jX2a8A
WAS BAUPOST'S MEGA INVESTMENT A MEGA MISTAKE
If you wish to skip my delightful and always insightful analysis, skip to the end and click on the link.
Otherwise, hold on to your hat and here we go:
...which showed signs of mismanagement since the beginning, if not from a project viability perspective, certainly with respect to PR....
Numerous missteps in the wake of the proposal filing in the Spring of 2011 prompted Highland to fire spokesman Michael Daniher, replacing him with Lindsay Broadhead of the PR Firm Hill & Knowlton.
Broadhead may not be faring much better in light of a new set of inflammatory claims, having asserted that the project “simply can’t have a negative environmental impact”
A quick glance at Highland’s own web site continues in the same ingratiating vein
This hubris is problematic not least of all for stretching what most people would consider reasonable truth, but also for its tonal discord with the sentiment of the community.
Its most egregious offenses have been myriad “no environmental impact” statements that few logical people would believe are true.
A final factor stripping investor value away from the project is the domino effect of negative buzz, made highly visible by the grassroots efforts of social media savvy opponents.
One Facebook group, aptly named “Stop The Quarry!,” has upwards of 5,000 followers, and has done a better job of besmirching the project’s image than has official spokesperson Lindsay Broadhead of bolstering it.
AH hell, the entire article is great, click here and read it for yourself....http://www.valuewalk.com/2012/01/21634/#.TwZJ-jX2a8A
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
PETER KENT FEDERAL MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT
Here is a link to a letter from Peter Kent outlining why he doesn't feel a Federal EA/panel review is required:
http://carolynbennett.liberal.ca/files/2011/09/Reply-from-Minister-Kent-re-Melancthon-Quarry.pdf?93122
Law list regulations that I think might have some relevance:
Ammonium Nitrate
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/C.R.C.,_c._598/page-1.html#h-2
Explosives
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/E-17/
Fisheries Act
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/F-14/page-7.html#h-10
Indian Act
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/I-5/
Railway Safety Act
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/R-4.2/
Regulation: Mining Near Lines of Railway
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-91-104/index.html
Keep those cards, emails and letters flowing to MP Kent.
kentp@parl.gc.ca
http://carolynbennett.liberal.ca/files/2011/09/Reply-from-Minister-Kent-re-Melancthon-Quarry.pdf?93122
Law list regulations that I think might have some relevance:
Ammonium Nitrate
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/C.R.C.,_c._598/page-1.html#h-2
Explosives
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/E-17/
Fisheries Act
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/F-14/page-7.html#h-10
Indian Act
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/I-5/
Railway Safety Act
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/R-4.2/
Regulation: Mining Near Lines of Railway
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-91-104/index.html
Keep those cards, emails and letters flowing to MP Kent.
kentp@parl.gc.ca
ANOTHER FRACKING PROBLEM
Oil and gas 'fracking' wastewater caused 11 earthquakes in Ohio: seismologist
A northeast Ohio well used to dispose of wastewater from oil and gas drilling almost certainly caused a series of 11 minor quakes in the Youngstown area since last spring, a seismologist investigating the quakes said Monday. Injection wells have also been suspected in quakes in Ashtabula in far northeast Ohio, and in Arkansas, Colorado, and Oklahoma, Armbruster said.
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/oil-gas-fracking-wastewater-caused-11-earthquakes-ohio-seismologist-article-1.1000228
So it isn’t the fracking they are blaming, it is the reinjection of waste water, thousands of gallons daily (NOT 600 million litres daily) that they say caused the earthquakes.
But how can that be? This is a big company with big research who said everything would be safe, they knew what they were doing.
Sound familiar?
“I think we’re comfortable that in today’s society people manage water . . . (and) know how to do it safely,” Izhakoff says.(Toronto Star article, December 31, 2011)
A northeast Ohio well used to dispose of wastewater from oil and gas drilling almost certainly caused a series of 11 minor quakes in the Youngstown area since last spring, a seismologist investigating the quakes said Monday. Injection wells have also been suspected in quakes in Ashtabula in far northeast Ohio, and in Arkansas, Colorado, and Oklahoma, Armbruster said.
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/oil-gas-fracking-wastewater-caused-11-earthquakes-ohio-seismologist-article-1.1000228
So it isn’t the fracking they are blaming, it is the reinjection of waste water, thousands of gallons daily (NOT 600 million litres daily) that they say caused the earthquakes.
But how can that be? This is a big company with big research who said everything would be safe, they knew what they were doing.
Sound familiar?
“I think we’re comfortable that in today’s society people manage water . . . (and) know how to do it safely,” Izhakoff says.(Toronto Star article, December 31, 2011)
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
AND HERE IS WHAT COMES NEXT
Plastics test burn next week, May 11, 2011
"A test burn of “post-recycling” plastic waste is scheduled for next week at the St. Marys Cement plant. According to company Environment Manager Martin Vroegh, approximately two per cent of the petroleum-based “coke” that’s normally fed into the kilns will be replaced — over a stretch of three days — by a shredded material being brought by tractor trailer from London. "
St. Marys Cement representative Wilson Little, however, was clear in his intent to pursue the possibilities.
NOTE THIS: Asked by councillor Lynn Hainer about the possible economic benefits to the Town of burning the alternative fuel, Little said the benefits are “indirect in the sense that, if (St. Marys Cement) doesn’t remain competitive and we don’t find ways to increase our efficiencies, we’re not going to be able to remain in business.”
Click here for entire article:
http://www.stmarys.com/News/article/98068#
And another one:
http://www.stmarys.com/News/article/102303#
Yes, St. Mary's one if not the biggest cement manufacturers in the world told a small municipal Council that while there are no "direct" benefits to the municipality, if the company couldn't burn plastic they would go out of business.
Honest to God, if the gravel industry reps lips are moving they are lying.
LaFarge too, except they burn tires as alternative fuel.
The Lafarge cement plant in Bath, ON (near Kingston) is currently in a lengthy, and costly, battle over the right to burn alternative fuels consisting of scrap tires and other waste products such as plastics. The company already burns tires at some of its plants in Quebec and in the United States, while the technology is used in many plants across Europe.
After three years of discussions with the province and various stakeholders, and four public meetings, Lafarge received its approval from the province to burn the alternative fuels for two years.Click here for the entire article:
http://www.stmarys.com/News/article/60667
Burning tires scorch cement industry's green credibility
It's difficult to read cement manufacturing giant Lafarge North America Inc. On the one hand, the company announced in June that it was working with Kingston-based biotech firm Performance Plants Inc. on ways to grow grasses and woody plants for use as fuel at its Bath, Ont., cement plant.
On the other hand, what exactly does "local fuel alternative" mean?
In the Ontario context, it seems to mean burning car tires, plastics and other local waste as fuel. The Ministry of Environment gave Lafarge approval to do just that, a decision that has faced stiff opposition from Kingston-area groups, including band members from the Tragically Hip. The two sides have been battling it out for five years.
Click here for entire article:
http://www.thestar.com/Business/sciencetech/article/471990
"A test burn of “post-recycling” plastic waste is scheduled for next week at the St. Marys Cement plant. According to company Environment Manager Martin Vroegh, approximately two per cent of the petroleum-based “coke” that’s normally fed into the kilns will be replaced — over a stretch of three days — by a shredded material being brought by tractor trailer from London. "
St. Marys Cement representative Wilson Little, however, was clear in his intent to pursue the possibilities.
NOTE THIS: Asked by councillor Lynn Hainer about the possible economic benefits to the Town of burning the alternative fuel, Little said the benefits are “indirect in the sense that, if (St. Marys Cement) doesn’t remain competitive and we don’t find ways to increase our efficiencies, we’re not going to be able to remain in business.”
Click here for entire article:
http://www.stmarys.com/News/article/98068#
And another one:
http://www.stmarys.com/News/article/102303#
Yes, St. Mary's one if not the biggest cement manufacturers in the world told a small municipal Council that while there are no "direct" benefits to the municipality, if the company couldn't burn plastic they would go out of business.
Honest to God, if the gravel industry reps lips are moving they are lying.
LaFarge too, except they burn tires as alternative fuel.
The Lafarge cement plant in Bath, ON (near Kingston) is currently in a lengthy, and costly, battle over the right to burn alternative fuels consisting of scrap tires and other waste products such as plastics. The company already burns tires at some of its plants in Quebec and in the United States, while the technology is used in many plants across Europe.
After three years of discussions with the province and various stakeholders, and four public meetings, Lafarge received its approval from the province to burn the alternative fuels for two years.Click here for the entire article:
http://www.stmarys.com/News/article/60667
Burning tires scorch cement industry's green credibility
It's difficult to read cement manufacturing giant Lafarge North America Inc. On the one hand, the company announced in June that it was working with Kingston-based biotech firm Performance Plants Inc. on ways to grow grasses and woody plants for use as fuel at its Bath, Ont., cement plant.
On the other hand, what exactly does "local fuel alternative" mean?
In the Ontario context, it seems to mean burning car tires, plastics and other local waste as fuel. The Ministry of Environment gave Lafarge approval to do just that, a decision that has faced stiff opposition from Kingston-area groups, including band members from the Tragically Hip. The two sides have been battling it out for five years.
Click here for entire article:
http://www.thestar.com/Business/sciencetech/article/471990
Monday, January 2, 2012
SHY GUY SETH HUMANIZED
Seth Klarman has taken some hits, on this blog and in some other media so I thought perhaps, in the interests of fairness I would present the human side of Seth.
He's a husband
He's a father
He talks on the phone
He supports his kids
He employees 165 people at BaupostHe's a son in law
He contributes to politicans ($109,000 in 2010)
He has a beautiful home:
And the Harvard School of Business Alumni says he is one of their extraordinary People for 2011:
"When he considers the company’s accomplishments, his satisfaction stems from what Baupost has done for others. “I’m proud of the fact that virtually everybody who has been connected with the firm — employees, clients, advisers, business partners — has benefited from that experience,” he adds."
http://www.alumni.hbs.edu/bulletin/2011/september/awards.html
2011 FAVOURITE VIDEOS
Melancthonvision/Stop the Quarry at Seth's house (for real, it is Seth's house) and if you stick with it you can watch Seth's minions blow up Webbs barn.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AppwGkjdn0E&list=UUyTrzmMLNXWTYrmc49NXaNQ&index=2&feature=plcp
Still my favourite video
http://vimeo.com/24224171
Hobo Wally-beware, if you listen to it you will NOT get that tune out of your head
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06N9KUJ54d0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AppwGkjdn0E&list=UUyTrzmMLNXWTYrmc49NXaNQ&index=2&feature=plcp
Still my favourite video
http://vimeo.com/24224171
Hobo Wally-beware, if you listen to it you will NOT get that tune out of your head
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06N9KUJ54d0
Sunday, January 1, 2012
PICTORIAL 2011 MISCELLANEOUS
DAY OF PROTEST IN ORANGEVILLE
MERCHANDISE AT NDACT'S JAN 2011 MEETING
PATAGONIA GATHERING
MORE DESTRUCTION
HIGHLANDS INFORMATION SESSION APRIL 2011
NDACT WEEKLY ATTENDANCE AT THE CREEMORE FARMERS MARKET SUMMER 2011
FOODSTOCK
ENOUGH SAID (NOT ENOUGH SEEN!!)
Saturday, December 31, 2011
OUR FIRST NATION FRIENDS PICTORIAL
Easter Parade-from Queen's Park to Blacks Farm in Five Days.
Native Rally July 22, 2011
Photos: Now Magazine
Friday, December 30, 2011
TORONTO STAR ARTICLE
"Here in Melancthon, farmers love the land so much they etch pictures of their homesteads on family gravestones.
When they die in this township — an idyllic stretch of rolling farmlands that juts out of Shelburne, just north of Orangeville — they are buried with a handful of the rich soil in their caskets.
So it seemed a somewhat bold gesture when strangers suddenly came calling, offering to take the land off their hands."
When they die in this township — an idyllic stretch of rolling farmlands that juts out of Shelburne, just north of Orangeville — they are buried with a handful of the rich soil in their caskets.
So it seemed a somewhat bold gesture when strangers suddenly came calling, offering to take the land off their hands."
Click here for entire article:
Thursday, December 29, 2011
SOURCE WATER PROTECTION PLANS
From Simcoe to Wellington, municipalities are aware that the Source Water Protection Plans are going to very costly.
Source water protection plans are in place to protect MUNICIPAL wells, not private wells. While Melancthon doesn't have any municipal wells, Melancthon ratepayers in the wellhead protection area of Shelburne's municipal well on the fourth line of Melancthon and the new one being proposed on the 2nd line NW in Melancthon WILL be impacted.
Additionally the draft plan that has been circulated shows there will be a lot of amendments to be made to Official Plans, no matter which Source Protection Area or Plan applies.
In some municipalities, such as Melancthon more than one plan will prevail.
Part of Melancthon will fall under the South Georgian Bay Lake Simcoe Source Protection Plan.
The draft plan has been circulted there are a lot of implications for municipalities and landowners. Here is a draft of the plan http://www.ourwatershed.ca/documents/source_protection_plan.php
and a map of the region: http://www.ourwatershed.ca/sgb/map.php
There are over 30 amendments that need to be made to OP’s in that plan alone.
Part of Melancthon will fall under the Lake Erie Source Protection Plan and that plan is not complete yet. Here is a map of the region: http://www.sourcewater.ca/index/document.cfm?Sec=13&Sub1=0&sub2=0
Have we heard from Council on this? Any planning report about how and when the planner thinks he can get these amendments in the OP? And heads up from Council to impacted rateapayers.
And if Shelburne digs a municipal well in Melancthon, I am pretty sure one or the other of these plans is going to mean big bucks for Melancthon AND adjacent landowners.
Is Council negotiating now with Shelburne to ensure Melancthon taxpayers aren't paying to protect Shelburne’s residents?
I remember a time a few short years ago when the Mayor of Shelburne had a shit fit because out of town kids, in his opinion, were benefiting from his ratepayers paying to cut grass in ball diamonds and soccer pitches so he implemented a user pay for out of town kids, which is still in effect.
Seems only fair then that Melancthon shouldn’t be spending their tax dollars for the benefit of Shelburne residents.
Here are some quotes from concerned municipalities:
Puslinch councillors are concerned its residents may end up footing the bill to protect Guelph’s water supply. http://www.wellingtonadvertiser.com/index.cfm?page=detail&itmno=10716
There are new regulations coming down the pipes - regulations designed to safeguard drinking water, which will have major planning and financial implications for municipalities.
http://www.bradfordtimes.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3418773
“I could see this as another layer of government. When you hear some of the things they’re looking at, there may be restrictions on land use policies,” he said. “If I’m a landowner or farmer, I’d be very concerned. I think this is going to be nothing more than a boondoggle by the time it comes out, as we’re looking at more and more policies.”http://www.insidehalton.com/news/article/1257679--province-should-fund-water-protection-plan-committee
He said the process toward implementation has been somewhat bogged down by concerns from municipalities about the implementation cost. http://www.intelligencer.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3398506
Homeowners with septic systems near sources of drinking water could face some hefty bills when it comes time for replacement. http://www.nugget.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3406623
Source water protection plans are in place to protect MUNICIPAL wells, not private wells. While Melancthon doesn't have any municipal wells, Melancthon ratepayers in the wellhead protection area of Shelburne's municipal well on the fourth line of Melancthon and the new one being proposed on the 2nd line NW in Melancthon WILL be impacted.
Additionally the draft plan that has been circulated shows there will be a lot of amendments to be made to Official Plans, no matter which Source Protection Area or Plan applies.
In some municipalities, such as Melancthon more than one plan will prevail.
Part of Melancthon will fall under the South Georgian Bay Lake Simcoe Source Protection Plan.
The draft plan has been circulted there are a lot of implications for municipalities and landowners. Here is a draft of the plan http://www.ourwatershed.ca/documents/source_protection_plan.php
and a map of the region: http://www.ourwatershed.ca/sgb/map.php
There are over 30 amendments that need to be made to OP’s in that plan alone.
Part of Melancthon will fall under the Lake Erie Source Protection Plan and that plan is not complete yet. Here is a map of the region: http://www.sourcewater.ca/index/document.cfm?Sec=13&Sub1=0&sub2=0
Have we heard from Council on this? Any planning report about how and when the planner thinks he can get these amendments in the OP? And heads up from Council to impacted rateapayers.
And if Shelburne digs a municipal well in Melancthon, I am pretty sure one or the other of these plans is going to mean big bucks for Melancthon AND adjacent landowners.
Is Council negotiating now with Shelburne to ensure Melancthon taxpayers aren't paying to protect Shelburne’s residents?
I remember a time a few short years ago when the Mayor of Shelburne had a shit fit because out of town kids, in his opinion, were benefiting from his ratepayers paying to cut grass in ball diamonds and soccer pitches so he implemented a user pay for out of town kids, which is still in effect.
Seems only fair then that Melancthon shouldn’t be spending their tax dollars for the benefit of Shelburne residents.
Here are some quotes from concerned municipalities:
Puslinch councillors are concerned its residents may end up footing the bill to protect Guelph’s water supply. http://www.wellingtonadvertiser.com/index.cfm?page=detail&itmno=10716
There are new regulations coming down the pipes - regulations designed to safeguard drinking water, which will have major planning and financial implications for municipalities.
http://www.bradfordtimes.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3418773
“I could see this as another layer of government. When you hear some of the things they’re looking at, there may be restrictions on land use policies,” he said. “If I’m a landowner or farmer, I’d be very concerned. I think this is going to be nothing more than a boondoggle by the time it comes out, as we’re looking at more and more policies.”http://www.insidehalton.com/news/article/1257679--province-should-fund-water-protection-plan-committee
He said the process toward implementation has been somewhat bogged down by concerns from municipalities about the implementation cost. http://www.intelligencer.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3398506
Homeowners with septic systems near sources of drinking water could face some hefty bills when it comes time for replacement. http://www.nugget.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3406623
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