Why Should We Care About the Energy East Pipeline?

TransCanada is seeking approval to convert its existing natural gas pipeline, which passes through this area, to carry bitumen and other forms of crude oil.

REAL is planning an information session with three guest speakers Wed. March 12 at the Station Theatre Smiths Falls. If you haven't been following this issue, it's time to find out what it means to our region and to Canada. Read more.

Can't make March 12? Sustainable North Grenville will be hosting a Council of Canadians presentaion Energy East:Our Risk -Their Reward on April 15 in Kemptville.

Pitch In Smiths Falls is April 19 - May 4.
Two weeks in case the the weather doesn't cooperate.

Contact Bonita at 613-283-1174 , or at the store, 283-7999 to claim your spot.

We supply the bags, you pick up the litter, and report back how much you found.

Volunteers Needed!

Finding the winter a little long? We could use your help at the REAL Deal Store or for other REAL activities.

Please get in touch with our new volunteer Volunteer Coordinator, Leann Merriman at 205-0818 to find out more. Save a step and complete our volunteer application form so we can suggest a position that's right for you.

REAL Community Garden

The eight plots at the community garden on the REAL Deal site are spoken for, but we haven't abandoned the possibility of building more IF we have sufficient interest and can find funding.

If you would like to garden with us in 2014, please let us know as soon as possible. We could also put you on a waiting list in case someone is unable to continue, or help you find another site in Smiths Falls. Email us!

Electronics Recycling at the REAL Deal

In partnership with the Town of Smiths Falls, the REAL Deal is now an official Ontario Electronics Stewardship (OES) collection site for electronics waste. Only certain items are accepted so please consult the list carefully. No "white goods", appliances containing freon, or miscellaneous electric appliances will be taken. What is accepted.

Materials accepted during store hours only. Find out more.

REAL Deal Reuse Store
Open Thurs, Fri and Sat. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

February Make a Deal Day is Friday, March 28 and the next Silent Action Close is Saturday, March 29th at 1:30 p.m.

We truly appreciate donations of gently used items, but please do not leave your donations when we are closed. Check out the REAL Deal Store Facebook page.

Have E-Waste, Can't Get to the REAL Deal?

Electronics are accepted for recycling at several authorized Ontario depots. Search by postal code at recycleyourelectronics.ca. Various neighbouring municipalities also provide collection services, e.g. Tay, Rideau Lakes and Drummond North Elmsley, and may require proof of residency.

YAK in Perth also accepts e-waste.

Have a listen to an interview with REAL's Susan Brandum and Lake 88's Ian Sutton, on June 11, 2013 about the REAL Deal, Park 'n Pedal, Backyard Composting, Cedar Rail Fence building workshops and other REAL activities.

Sue's Nov. 12 interview with Kassina Ryder is also available.

Click on In Focus, or on the appropriate month in the side bar to find the interview.

The Ontario Power Authority has a free new program to help people reduce their energy use and bills.

Once you apply and are eligible, an auditor will visit your house and install energy saving devices, fee of charge.

REAL is helping to promote the program. Tell them REAL sent you and REAL will receive a small promotion fee.

Find more details and determine eligibility.

Rideau Mississippi Take It Back 

Keeping it out of landfill. Find businesses and organizations in the Rideau Mississippi region that Take Back used materials for reuse, recycling or proper disposal. Art, batteries, electronics, eyeglasses, medical equipment, musical instruments, pet medications, toiletries, toys and more.

Supported by the municipalities of North Grenville, Mississippi Mills, Perth, and Smiths Falls. Let us know about other businesses that should be on the list.

Home Energy Audit Services

REAL offers energy audit services that will give you a better understanding of your home. A blower door test or thermography reading will help you determine energy-saving solutions that will genuinely benefit you.

For more details contact REAL (613) 283-9500 or Sue.

Available for borrowing through Perth, Almonte, Smiths Falls or South Elmsley Public Libraries or at the REAL Deal.

Wondering what you can do about your high electricity bill? The Kill a Watt meter is a handy device to monitor the energy consumption of some of your electrical appliances. Call 613-283-9500.