Vol.23 No.06

Lanark-Frontenac : New Riding After Redistribution

North Kingston Returns to Kingston & the Islands

By Jeff Green

When the draft version of the new Ontario electoral map was circulated last summer, the commissioner who designed the new boundaries stuck pretty strictly to crearting ridings with a very similar number of voters.

That led to a proposal which would have shifted South Frontenac, except for Bedford, to the Leeds, 1000 islands Riding, and included the township of Madawaska in Renfrew County as well as a chunk of rural Ottawa, in the Lanark-Frontenac riding.

But after hearing from the local communities, the commissioner’s had a change of heart.

In the cluster of 6 ridings in Eastern Ontario, the region bordered by Algonquin Park to the north west, and Kingston to the southwest, and extending to the boundaries with the Province of Quebec at Cornwall and the City of Ottawa (see map) the commissioners said, “Several changes have been made to the proposed boundaries in response to submissions. The Commission received many submissions about the portions of Kingston north of Highway 401, the splitting of several counties, and the transfer of the Township of North Glengarry from Glengarry— Prescott—Russell to Stormont— Dundas—Glengarry.”

One of the major issues noted in the report that was released last week, is the desire of Kingston residents living north of Highway 401 to be brought back into the fold with Kingston and the Islands, after being removed to the Frontenac-Lanark-Kingston riding the last time redistribution was done in 2013.

“The Commission concluded that this should be implemented. All of the City

of Kingston is now in the final district of KINGSTON AND THE ISLANDS, along with the Township of Frontenac Islands. This has given the district a deviation from the Quota of +15.3%.

The Commission determined that this is necessary based on geographical circumstances. There are limitations on where this district can be divided considering that the southern part of the district consists of islands. Further, there was an overwhelming number of independent submissions to maintain the municipal boundary as the district boundary, where the anticipated growth is relatively modest. The Commission observes that it may not be reasonably possible to maintain these boundaries in the future.”

As far as South Frontenac is concerned, the commissioners noted that some of the residents who contacted them wanted to be part of Kingston and the Islands.

“Other submissions, including one from the Township itself, suggested that the Township of South Frontenac should be maintained with the rest of Frontenac County in Lanark—Frontenac. The Commission found these arguments persuasive as such a change preserves effective representation. LANARK—FRONTENAC has been restored to its existing boundaries.”

The result is that residents of all three of the land-locked Frontenac Townships; North, Central, and South, will be in LanarkFrontenac.

North Kingston residents, as well as Frontenac Islanders, will be in the riding of KINGSTON AND THE ISLANDS

Based on the 2021 census, the LANARKFRONTENAC riding has a permanent resi-

dent population of 103,120, 11.55% lower than the target population of about 115,000.

The population of the new Kingston and the Islands riding is 134,415 over 15% over the target, making it the most populous riding in Ontario.

Based on the results from previous elections, the two ridings will almost certainly be safe seats, at least federally, for the parties that represent them now, the Conservative Party (incumbent Scott Reid) in LanarkFrontenac, and the Liberal Party in Kingston and the Islands (incumbent Mark Gerretson) both easily receive close to 50% of the vote

on election day

For residents of Addington Highlands, they will be included in the riding of HASTINGS-LENNOX AND ADDINGTON-TYENDINAGA, with a small population increase from the existing riding of Hastings-Lennox an Addington. By adding Tyendinaga to the riding, it has a population of 111,331, 4.5% lower than the target.

The new boundaries will come into effect for the next Federal election, unless one is called before they are formally adopted, and will then be in place in time for the next provincial election in Ontario in 2026. ■

Frontenac County Council Set To Up Their Levy By 8.9% Assessment Growth

By Jeff Green

Frontenac County Warden Ron Vandewal has made 2% his mantra throughout his 8 years as Mayor of South Frontenac.

To that end, he has voted against all but one of the Frontenac County Budgets since joining Frontenac County Council in 2016. That was the only time the county budget increase came in at under 2%.

This year, the increase is almost 9%, with Council making only marginal changes to the draft that was presented to them last week.

Nonetheless, Vandewal indicated that when the budget comes up for approval at the February meeting of Frontenac County Council this week, he will be supporting it.

He even stood firm against a proposal to defer spending on land purchases for the K&P trail, which may have lowered

the levy by a few tenths of a percentage.

“As we saw earlier today, the things that got kicked down the road end up coming back to haunt you later on, and this is where we are. And this is an absolutely brutal budget, it really is. So whether we say 8.95% or 8.59%, it is still over 8% and it is still going to be a big number and we are still going to hear about it back in our own communities. But we have to live with it.”

Deputy Warden and Central Frontenac Mayor Frances Smith, the only other long serving member of the council, which has seen a dramatic turnover after last fall's election, concurred with Vandewal, particularly as regards the spending on the K&P Trail land purchases.

“The stuff that we don’t do this year, is going to hit us again in a year or two. The process is in the middle and we are going

to have to pay for this later on,” she said.

The largest share of the budget increase this year came from inflationary impacts.

As Treasurer/ Director of Corporate Services, Alex Lemieux, explained at the beginning of the budget meeting, which ended up running almost 9 hours, over two days, the budget was doomed to be well above the standard annual increase of 3-4% from the start.

The budget target for Lemieux is set by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in August each year, and this year the CPI was 6.9%.

“We've seen the impact of inflation everywhere in the budget: fuel, employee benefits, insurance, WSIB payments, it’s been across the board,” he said. “The inflationary impact on our status quo budget came in just under the CPI, at 6.72%,” he said.

Long-term spending plans made by

previous councils, including .65% increases each for ambulance service and capital replacement costs, .28% for rural transportation and .36% for K&P Trail expansion, brought the increase to over 8.6%.

That left only a few minor items for Council to look at, and they decided to cut a $25,000 contribution to a reserve fund for rent subsidies, but to place $22,000 in the budget to support doctor recruitment.

(See County Commits $22,000 to Doctor Recruitment on page 10)

In addition to accepting the budget document in principle with a increase of 8.94%, and sending it to this week's regular council meeting for a final debate and approval, Council also made a decision about the future of ambulance service which did not have an impact on the 2023 budget but will make a difference in 2024. (See County Adds Shift to Paramedic Services on page 6)■

The Roar

by Lynn Oborne

As mentioned in previous articles, the Lions is a Service Club and Youth is one of our focus areas. The Peace Poster Contest is an example of how Lions reach out to youth. It encourages children to make a drawing with the theme representing “Peace”. The LOL Lions Club is pleased to announce that a special award was recently presented to Abby Weiss, a grade 8 student at Clarendon Central Public School in Plevna. Abby's Peace Poster was chosen amongst many entries submitted throughout District A3. Her drawing advanced to other levels in the competition and, in the picture, Abby is receiving an award for being one of the 10 contestants who reached the Multiple District level. We are so proud of her achievement. The student who eventually wins at the international level would have the honour of visiting the United Nations in New York City and addressing the thousands of Lions attending the UN convention. We hope to one day have a Land O’Lakes student win that honour.

February is proving to be another very active month at the Lion's

Frontenac County, And Its Municipalities, Need To Get Involved With 'Find A Doc'

by Jeff Green

Hall in Northbrook. As a continued Service we are focusing on Hunger and have started another month-long Food Drive. Please drop off non-perishable food and hygiene products such as paper towels/toilet/tissue. This can be done anytime that the Hall has an event going on, for example Monday Darts, Tuesday Euchre and Thursday Bingo, all between 6-9 pm. The donations will be delivered to the Food Bank in Cloyne. Our target is 600 lbs of food...please be generous.

Carrying on the feeling of kindness, Bingo players will be given a free chocolate bar during the month of February.

The Lions fence is now adorned with hearts and cute figures sending out Valentine wishes to our community. On that theme, we are offering a special Romantic Dinner on Saturday, February 18th between 6-8 pm, followed by a Valentine’s Dance 8:15-1 am. Details can be found on our Facebook page. Come join the fun.

Over the last 15 years, there have been a couple of successful 'find a doc' campaigns in our region. While the circumstances today are different, those successes are still instructive. In one case, the township of Addington Highlands, with support from the Township of North Frontenac, invested in the Northbrook Clinic, worked in support of long time local practitioner Dr. Tobia to establish a Family Health Team there, and invested in an incentive program that brought two doctor's to Northbrook. Although one of them left,fir family reasons, but Dr. Matt Dumas has become well established at the clinic.

In Sharbot Lake, Central Frontenac Township worked with Dr. Bell to establish a Family Health Team, including an expanded facility, bringing a host of services to the local community.

And in Verona, the “Find a Doc” campaign, which was community based, resulted in the township purchasing the clinic, and in the ability to recruit Dr. Sabra Gibbens to join Dr. Piotr Oglaza in what was at the time a two-doctor

clinic before Dr. Oglaza left to pursue a specialty in public health, enabling a smooth transition for the local community when Dr. Laurel Dempsey retired.

While the circumstances were different in each case, there were similarities that are instructive in dealing with what local doctor's are now flagging as an impending crisis in a more difficult heathcare environment.

In all three cases, a partnership between community partners, the local township, the doctor's and the teams that they work with, were all involved in finding a solution.

Some of the statements made by politicians at Frontenac County Council last week, indicate that there is a missing link between the doctor's and Frontenac County politicians.

Frontenac County Council were confused by the presentation by Doctor Dietrich (Sydenham Medical Clinic) and Deborah Krause (Sharbot Lake Family Health Team).

The wondered why there was no 'concrete ask' in the presentation, which is understandable because the discussion they had about

the presentation took place in the context of the county budget.

The presentation was really about informing local politicians of an existential threat to healthcare services, one of the key factors in the economic and social fabric of their communities, and the ask was for a long term engagement with them to seek solutions, as well as financial support.

To their credit, the council put $22,000 into a fund to address the problem.

But that money, and the idea that a head hunter could scour the field and put together a short list of candidates to choose from, does not fit with reality.

The lack of family physicians is a national problem in Canada that is well documented and has been extensively reported on.

And local politicians need to step back and really listen to what the doctor's have been saying.

What is needed is engagement.

A politician, or better yet a small groups of politicians from across the county needs to meet with the doctor's, and others, to figure out how to tackle this problem from a community development, marketing,

and financial perspective.

Yes, the townships need to invest.

South Frontenac will need to establish a reserve fund to cover up to $200,000 over ten years to create the same incentive that exists in Central and North Frontenac, Kingston, and just about every other jurisdiction in Ontario. And there will be some expertise that will need to be hired to navigate the recruitment process.

But beyond that a group of people, politicians and others, need to learn all they can about what would draw the right doctor(s) for Verona, Sharbot Lake, and sooner than later, Sydenham has well, to begin a Frontenac “Find a Doc” campaign

The doctors said, very clearly, that they do not have the time, or the expertise to do this work. They are paid to provide medical care, and because of the size of our small clinics, they are also responsible for the management of clinical and administrative staff.

They cannot do this recruitment as well, but the fact that they banded together to come to these meetings demonstrates their commitment to the local communities they serve, and the politicians representing those communities, as well as others, need to respond in order for their to be any chance for success.

This point was well illustrated when Dr. Dietrich looked at her watch at 10:20 while appearing before Frontenac County Council in January, and then said, “I apologize but I need to leave. I have a patient coming to see me at 10:30” ■

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MP Scott Reid Issues Statement on Canopy Growth Closure

On February 9, 2023, Canopy Growth announced that it is laying off 46% of its workforce in Smiths Falls, ON. This announcement comes as a shock to the many workers and their families, so it is appropriate for everyone’s thoughts and prayers to be with them today.

While there are many reasons that this industry is retrenching, the overwhelming factors are the direct responsibility of the incumbent federal government: unreasonably high taxation and a high-cost regulatory burden that drives up the compliance costs of licensed cannabis producers without a commensurate benefit for public safety.

Sharbot Lake is not the Centre of the Universe

I’m proposing that the municipal councillors are suffering a condition I’m calling Sharbot Lake Syndrome- based on the well known and recognized Stockholm Syndrome. The Stockholm syndrome refers to the idea of groups of people being influenced by power imbalances that cause irrational outcomes. Our Central Frontenac municipal counsellors are in such a position- under the influence of specialists who are distorting their power advantage over the councillors and causing outrageous and irrational ideas that all favour Sharbot Lake. These outrageous ideas include- a sewage lagoon right in Sharbot Lake –all in order to bring in the train (needing a train station with increased sewage requirements, to set up apartments on the public school location lot (increased sewage) , and a plan to keep hiring more and

For five years, cannabis producers have lobbied for a more reasonable and business-friendly approach to regulating their industry. On Parliament Hill, a multi-partisan Cannabis Industry Caucus has been formed to assist in this task. This work has fallen on deaf ears, and the Liberal government has made it virtually impossible for producers to lower their costs and establish a basis for turning a profit.

The result is that Canada’s first-mover advantage has been largely squandered. With a head start on the rest of the world, because we legalized before all other major economies, Canada should have been

in a position to build the infrastructure (physical infrastructure, corporate and financial infrastructure, and intellectual infrastructure) to become the world’s dominant player in this rapidly expanding field, dominating it for decades in much the way that other countries have been able to build permanent market dominance in areas where they had, in past decades, been the first movers (Switzerland in chocolate, for example).

This momentum has now been lost, and the present round of job losses is just one more example of the damage.

There is a single cause for this mess:

lE tt E rs

more people in the township office- which compromises the existing septic system. Fixing these issues would take- again- the tax money generated for the whole township and funnel it into Sharbot Lake. So I’m encouraging the Sharbot Lake Property Association to go to bat by insisting that the Municipality abandon the sewage lagoon idea (and all related projects- train station, apartments, hiring more people in an office with a stressed sewage system) in favour of representing the Kennebec and outlying areas who need their roads fixed. This way, the Sharbot Lake waterways will be protected and the tax dollars will be equally shared. This will correct the existing imbalance whereby taxation revenues are unequally spent on Sharbot Lake projects. As I’ve said many times, our Henderson Rd and Arden road need paving and maintenance and they keep being deferred due to Sharbot Lake projects.

This causes such despair and hardship as our taxes rise yearly and our neigh-

Central Frontenac Minor Softball

Central Frontenac Minor Softball Association wants to ensure that our 2023 Softball Season runs smoothly, to do this we are looking for:

• Coaches

• Umpires

• Parents to join Executive

• Jersey Sponsors

If you are able to help us out in any of the above please email cfminorball@hotmail.com or call Jon at 613-453-5310

bours in north Frontenac pay 40% less in taxes than we do in Central Frontenac. We in Kennebec are not getting value for our taxes- due to the Sharbot Lake syndrome. I urge the councillors to escape the tyranny of this syndrome and to speak up, protest, don’t trust the “experts” . I also implore that the upper level Central Frontenac employees (not the municipal counsellors) donate back 10% of their salary so that our Henderson Road and Arden Road can be fixed.

Also councillors- don’t trust the experts and all their lingo about “pavement policies” or “cash flow Issues” and smoke

The Trudeau government’s casual lack of seriousness, when it comes to doing the practical business of creating a taxation and regulatory environment in which this industry could, and should, flourish.

Until today, Canopy was the largest single private-sector employer in the constituency that I represent, and it continues to be a leader in the industry. What a shame that our government has destroyed the potential that it had, to bring prosperity to this corner of small-town Ontario, and to the Canadian economy as a whole.

Scott Reid, M.P. Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston

screens about how Road 38 is a priority over over the Henderson and Arden Road. The best thing our township could do in my opinion is to declare bankruptcy and start all over with a new upper level management and a mandate to serve the whole township, not just Sharbot Lake. It’s unfortunate that a vote of non-confidence can’t be introduced, however it is possible to vote against proposals or to amend them to death and to stall into insolvency or eternity whichever comes first!

Say no to the Sharbot Lake syndromesay no no no!!

- Jean Brown

Frontenac OPP Urges 'Extreme' Caution Near Bodies of Water

The Frontenac Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) urges the public to exercise 'extreme caution' near bodies of water that presently have ice on them. Remember no ice is safe ice!

On February 13, 2023, just before 12:00 p.m., police received a call regarding a pickup truck that had broken through the ice and become submerged in Dog Lake.

The investigation revealed that on February 12, 2023, at approximately 6:00 p.m., an individual drove his vehicle out onto Dog Lake to go ice fishing. While driving back to shore, the vehicle

broke through the ice and sank in approximately 40 feet of water. The driver was able to escape from the vehicle and no injures were sustained.

The Ontario Ministry of Environment (MOE) has been notified and police are working with them to ensure the vehicle is safely recovered from the lake.

Please consider the risks to yourself and others should you venture out on frozen surfaces. This not only puts you in harms way, but when first responders are called to an emergency on the ice, the rescue efforts are complicated and can be dangerous for everyone.■

•

COMMUNITY REPORTERS (613)

Arden Wanda Harrison 335-3186

Battersea / Storrington Amanda Pantrey 353-6653

Cloyne / Northbrook Stepanie Regent

Denbigh Gail Fritsch

Godfrey Kelli McRobert

613-333-2224

Harrowsmith Gregg Hamelin 613-376-6665 Henderson Jean Brown

Inverary Judy Borovskis

Maberly-Bolingbroke Karen Prytula

Mississippi Pearl Killingbeck

Ompah Linda Rush

Parham-Tichborne ........Colleen Steele

Perth Road Peter Bird

Plevna Rhonda Watkins 613-264-5325

Sydenham Karen Brawley 376-9848

Verona Debbie Lingen

OMPAH

linda rush lindarush@yahoo.com

Marily seitz seitz@xplornet.ca

The next Birthdare welcome.

PArHAM-TICHbOrNE

Colleen steele

Christine teal mrsteal2u@hotmail.com

Happy Belated Valentine's Day!

613-479-2570

613-479-2855

for Taylor Meeks and his fiancé Madi on Feb 18th from 6pm to 11pm at the Lions Club @ 935 Sydenham Rd . It's a Chili Fest!! Be sure to stop by and vote for the best chili! $10/person includes chili! There will be a silent auction, 50/50, lots of fun games and prizes and, of course, music and dancing!!

Minor Ball is looking for your help, we are looking for coach- • es, umpires, jersey sponsors, and parents to join the executive! If you are interested in any of these positions, please send an email to CFminorball@hotmail.com or call Jon Neadow or any member of the executive. Let's make this a great season! Details about registration will be coming out shortly!

P E r TH rOAD

Peter Bird

613-353-7303

p.bird@xplornet.ca

EVENTS AT Perth Rd. Sunday School Hall: Tuesday • Lunches continue. Charge is $8 per person. Great value for home-made soup, sandwiches and desert.

Perth Road VILLAGE Crafters continue to meet every • Wednesday: 9:30am – 11:30am at Harris Park Hall, 5612 Perth Road Cres. If you’re a first timer, check us out for free. Please contact Cheryl Bird 613-353-7303.

PLEVNA

rhonda Watkins

Sy DENHAM

Karen Brawley

613-376-9848

Family day weekend is upon us. Many thanks to those

• who are working at our local businesses to help families with all they need to spend some special time with their family. Foodland will be open from 9am-5pm that day.

Garbage and recycling will not go out on the 20th in ob- • servance of Family Day. Those who have regular pickup on Mondays, please put it out on Tuesday.

Diners lunch club on March 2 in Sydenham for 55+ . Don’t miss out, limited to 65 people, so grab your spouse or friend and plan to attend. Join us on Thursday, March 2nd, for a delicious turkey lunch with dessert and beverages at the Grace Hall, 4295 Stagecoach Road, Sydenham. After lunch, Melody Makers will be providing us with some upbeat musical entertainment. Meal is served at noon and is $10.00 per person. Reserve your spot today at 613-376-6477, ext 303 OR Email joanne.silver@sfcsc.ca.

We are limiting attendance to this lunch to 65 people, so reserve early. If we are full when you call, we will be putting your name on a waiting list pending cancelations.

613-375-6219

613-375-6525

• North Frontenac Little Theatre group is looking for actors/

• actresses of different ages for their up and coming production "Ciara's Coming Home". Last chance is tonight from 630 to 8. Make sure you drop in if you are interested. They are also looking for behind the scenes personel if you are shy and don't want to be front and center @northfrontenaclittletheatre. com.

613-264-5325

rhonda139@gmail.com

As you may know, Bob Morrison carved a beautiful wizard • on Plevna Resident; Marlene Leeson's dead maple tree (last year) - "Dagmar the Dutiful". A gorgeous creation! She has a pesky Pileated Woodpecker going at it and is close to destroying Dagmar's face. The pile of wood chips at the base of the tree is incredible! It's such a shame how much destruction these beautiful birds can cause in such a short amount of time.

Well, winter has been interesting to say the least, mild, cold, snow, rain, ice. Please be cautious when venturing onto the ice, it’s been unpredictable, and watch your pets who don’t know how to judge ice thickness or safety.

Semester 2 is under way. Hope all the students and teach- • ers have a good second semester, kudos to the prom committee who are actively raising money for their prom, hoping some events in the upcoming future. So those who wish to help them out can. Busy year for SHS, graduating class of 2023, 150 years, wow

VE r ONA

Debbie Lingen debbie@lingens.com

Secret is out about the 3K Marathon Run/Walk for Kingston/

• Frontenac. Kicking off at Running Room on Princess Street. Register on line @ $15.0, you can also participate virtually.

Sharbot Lake Community Breakfast at St Andrews Anglican

• Church on Feb 18 from 7 to 1030am @ 10.00 per person

Save Sat, March 11th for a visit to the Ompah Communi- • ty Centre from 4-5:30pm for the 2nd Annual Ompah Snow Stomp Dance. You can park at the rest stop. There will be refreshments available to enjoy. For more info, you can contact Liz at 613 806-4745.

Lots of things to do for Family Day. Hope you spend the

• day/weekend making memories with your family. Please check the listings.

Feb 25 is the next Lion's Club All you Can Eat Breakfast at • the OSO Township Hall in Sharbot Lake. Proceeds from this will go towards the Lions Foundation for Dog Guides. Come out or donate to this club as they support so many organizations. Also, if you want to get your Easter Bunnies early, give Dawn, Dave Hansen or any Lion club member or contact us as last year they were sold out quickly. Price is still $5 each.

Sincere condolences to the family of the late Bob Harvey as

• well as Ken Crawford.

Plevna will be the place to be Sat, Feb 25th for the 2023 • Winterfest! Festivities begin at noon and there will be so many fun activities to enjoy! Randy the Magicman will be impressing everybody with his talents, DJ Sparky will be hosting a Skating Party, you can enjoy a tool rodeo presented by the Canadian HandyWoman and Clarendon School will be providing a delicious lunch. A euchre tournament will begin at 2:30, you can contact me if you are interested in entering the tournament to win some cool prizes! Plus so much more fun activities and demonstrations will be going on and hosted by local businesses! This will definately be a day to remember! Everybody is welcome and there is no entry fee!!

Style Revival will be open this Saturday, January 18 from • 10am to 1pm. It will also be open, as usual, Wednesdays from 10am to 1pm. Style Revival, which is located in the Verona Free Methodist Church at 6804 Hwy 38, offers free gently used clothing and footwear for all ages.

Bring the whole family to enjoy "Family Day" on Monday, February 20 from 11am to 3pm at the Frontenac Community Arena, 4299 Arena Boundary Road, Godfrey. This is a FREE event that includes skating, snowtubing and other snow activities. Volunteers needed. E-mail recsupport@southfrontenac. net.

• Hope everyone is enjoying the spring-like weather. Speak-

Thinking of you to Lisa Teal.

• ing of spring, when you are doing your spring cleaning, we are hoping to have our annual Yard Sale/Vendor Market at the Parham Ball Field in May. Remember: your trash may be someone else's treasure.

The community is invited to come out to a Stag and Doe

If there are any creative folks in the Community, you are invited to reach out to Matt at edo@northfrontenac.ca or 613 479-2231 to get signed up for the Winterfest Ice Sculpture Competition. You will be provided with a block of ice. You bring your own tools and create your masterpiece! There will be a prize for the best sculpture and the most ambitious one! Good luck!!

Hopefully you and your family have lots of fun activities planned to enjoy together this long family day weekend! This is a great time of year to enjoy family time outside; skating, skiing, sledding or just enjoying a nice hike!

Join The Senior's Diner Club on Thursday, March 2nd, for • a delicious turkey lunch with dessert and beverages at the Grace Hall, 4295 Stagecoach Road, Sydenham. After lunch, Melody Makers will be providing us with some upbeat musical entertainment. Meal is served at noon and is $10.00 per person. Reserve your spot today at 613-376-6477, ext 303 OR Email joanne.silver@sfcsc.ca They are limiting attendance to this lunch to 65 people, so reserve early. If they are full when you call, they will be putting your name on a waiting list pending cancellations.

ArDEN

Wanda Harrison

613-335-3186 wmharrison070@gmail.com

With Family Day weekend now upon us, please be advised that the Kennebec Lake events have changed venues to the Mallard Pond area, opposite 1281 Nordic Road. There will be lots of signage so you won’t get lost and many of the events scheduled will still be part of the celebration. Lots to do and plenty of food to keep you busy and warm.

The date of the event is Saturday, February 18, 11am to • 3pm, with a weather date of Monday, February 20.

On Sunday the 19th, Glen Matson and family plan a fun • filled day with ice events, sleigh rides, an antique display and participation from the Trapper. Again, as yesterday, there will be lots of food to keep you warm. A free will donation would be appreciated with all proceeds going to the Wesleyan Church. These are annual events in our area, so please support •

both. Your attendance will encourage these folks to carry on their traditions next year!!!

On Tuesday, February 21, 5pm to 7pm, the Arden United

• Church will be celebrating Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday, with a dinner and service. A free will donation would be appreciated.

The tradition of the “All you Can Eat” breakfast sponsored • by the Lions carries on for the month of February. The substantial breakfast will be held Saturday February 25, 8am to 11am at Oso Hall. The proceeds for this breakfast will be donation to the Lions Club of Canada for their Guide Dog program. While you’re indulging in your breakfast, purchase your Easter Bunny. If you are unable to attend, please call 613375-6318 for Bunny enquiries.

The Central Frontenac Softball Asssociation is in need of • volunteers in various positions. Please call Jon at 613-4535310 or email cfminorball@hotmail.com.

bATTE r SEA /S TO rr INGTON

amanda Pantrey

613-353-6653 amandapantrey@outlook.com

Join South Frontenac at the Frontenac Community Arena

• on Monday, February 20 from 11am – 3pm for the Family Day in South Frontenac community event. There will snowtubing and other snow activities, free skating and more. Volunteers needed. For more information, email recsupport@southfrontenac.net.

Enjoy a delicious pancake dinner at Battersea United • Church as part of Shrove Tuesday beginning at 5pm on Feb. 21. This meal is only $10 pp and includes pancakes, sausages, fruit salad, tea and coffee. Parking is free - everyone welcome!

Members of the public are invited to join South Frontenac Township for the reopening of the newly renovated Storrington Centre at 3910 Battersea Road on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 12 noon. Light refreshments will be served. If you plan on attending, RSVP to communications@southfrontenac.net.

Catch a live musical performance by Chris Murphy at 7pm • on Sunday, Feb. 26 at Battersea United Church. Free parking and freewill offering.

Why does the mushroom keep getting invited to parties? Be- • cause he’s a fun-gi (thanks to my Ma for this week’s joke!).

CLOyNE - N O r TH br OO k

stephanie regent stephanieregent@gmail.com

Bingo and free chocolate bar at the LOL Li- • ons Hall on Thursday nights throughout February. The Lions are raising awareness to hunger. Please drop off non-perishable goods to the Lions Hall during any event going on at the hall. These will go back to our Community via the Food Bank. Thanks for supporting this needed cause. Reserve for your special dinner on February 18th at the Lions. Details on our FB page or call 613-217-8710. LOL Lions Dance February 18th 8:15-1pm.

DENbIGH & VENNACHAr

Gail Fritsch 613-333-2224 tonygailfritsch@sympatico.ca

The weather was lovely on the weekend and there was lots • of activity on the lake and at the Denbigh Rink.

Mark your calendars - Pancake Tuesday is coming soon!

• The Vennachar Free Methodist Church invites you to enjoy pancakes and sausages on Tuesday, February 21st, between 5 and 7pm. Dinner is by donation. The Church also has a Community Open Mic Night on Friday, February 24 at 7pm. Great entertainment and everyone is welcome. Please let me know if you have any news or events you • would like to share.

GODFrEy

Kelli Mcrobert kattgrrrl@gmail.com

Happy birthday to Dale Younge and Andy Quinn!

• Saturday, Feb 25th is the 2023 Winterfest at Clar-Mill

• Hall, 6598 Buckshot Lake Road, Plevna from 12-430pm, free entry, all welcome. Activities for all ages.

Diners lunch club in Sydenham for 55+ - Join Southern

• Frontenac Community Services on Thursday, March 2, for a delicious turkey lunch with dessert and beverages at the Grace Hall, 4295 Stagecoach Road, Sydenham. After lunch, Melody Makers will be providing us with some upbeat musical entertainment. Meal is served at noon and is $10 per person. Reserve your spot today at 613-376-6477, ext 303 OR email joanne.silver@sfcsc.ca We are limiting attendance to this lunch to 65 people, so reserve early. If we are full when you call, we will be putting your name on a waiting list pending cancellations.

•

Members of the public are invited to join South Frontenac

Township for the reopening of the newly renovated Storrington Centre at 3910 Battersea Road on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 12 noon. Light refreshments will be served. We hope you can join us!

H A rr OWSMITH

Gregg Hamelin

613-376-6665 ghamelin3585@gmail.com

Happy belated birthday to Brenda Crawford - submitted by anonymous.

Sunday, February 19, 2023 there will be a TAKE OUT tur- • key dinner at the Golden Links Hall in Harrowsmith. Advance tickets only with a cut off date of Wednesday, February 15. The cost is $20.00 and tickets are available at the gas station in Sydenham, Harrowsmith, Hartington and Asselstine Hardware in Verona. For info call 613-372-2410.

Monday, February 20, 2023 is Family Day in Ontario. Go • outdoors, walk, run, slide, but just enjoy the day!!!

Saturday, March 11, 2023 is Euchre night at the Harrowsmith • S and A Club, 4041 Colebrook Road, Harrowsmith, Ontario. Starting at 7pm. Entry fee $7 for non members, $5 for members. Please email harrowsmithsand@gmail.com for more information or to join the group. Come out and join the fun!

Friday, March 17, 2023 St. Patrick's Day celebration at the • Harrowsmith S and A Club. From 7:30pm until 11pm. Green beer and Karaoke. Cash bar. Come and join for a $5 entry fee. Contact harrowsmithsanda@gmail.com for details.

HENDErSON

Jean Brown 613-336-2516

Lots of weather events and also a hold in place order this • past week kept us on our toes, and we surely appreciate all who are helping us out and keeping us safe. It’s nice to look ahead to the hopeful warmer days and the Land O’Lakes Lions Club Farmers Market starting June 3 in Northbrook. They are seeking more agricultural and artisan vendors to make it a success and full season, half season and daily spots will be available.

Our sister United Church in Arden hosts a Shrove Tues Feb. • 21 pancake supper (free will offering) there from 5-7pm with an optional ash Wed service following at 6. Shrove Tuesday is a religious celebratory day before the more austere season of Lent. Historically pancakes were eaten to use up the fatty foods that couldn’t be eaten during the more austere lenten season. Ash Wed, a religious repentance celebration involves wearing a cross made of ashes to represent the ashes from which humans were created and will become upon departure. The ashes are often created from burning last years palm crosses.

INVErAry

Judy Borovskis borovskis@kingston.net

Family Day at the Frontenac Community Arena on Mon- • day, February 20th from 11 – 3pm. Enjoy snow tubing and other snow activities, horse drawn wagon rides, skating and more. All activities are free. From 11 am to noon, the South Frontenac Stocksport Club will be hosting a trial and demonstration. Come out to learn about this emerging sport and this internationally ranked club. Hot drinks, snacks, and milk will be provided by the Frontenac Dairy Producers. Canteen will also be open for purchases. Hope to see you there. Volunteers are needed. Sign up by emailing recsupport@southfrontenac.net.

Pancake Tuesday! Come one! Come all! On Tuesday, • February 21st starting at 5pm until 7pm at Battersea United Church. Pancakes, sausages, fruit salad, tea & coffee. $10 per person. We appreciate your support! Storrington Centre! Renovations are now complete and • members of the public are invited to the reopening of the newly renovated building at 3910 Battersea Road on Thursday, February 23rd at 12 noon. Light refreshments will be provided.

•

Chris Murphy in concert Sunday, February 26th at 7pm at

• Battersea United Church. Freewill offering. Guaranteed a great evening!

Diners Lunch Club for 55+ Southern Frontenac Community

• Services is hosting this event on Thursday, March 2nd at 12 noon. Enjoy a delicious turkey lunch with dessert and beverage at the Grace Hall, 4295 Stagecoach Road, Sydenham. Melody Makers will be providing musical entertainment. Cost is $10 per person. Reserve your spot by calling 613-3766477, ext 303 OR email joanne.silver@sfcsc.ca . Attendance is limited to 65 people, so reserve early.

Pull Tabs are continually being collected by the Storrington

• Lions Club as are eye glasses and hearing aids. Items can be dropped off any time at the Lions’ hall in Sunbury.

Hall Rentals: Inverary Church Hall – contact Judy Borovs-

• kis 353-1768 or cell: 613-545-5017. Battersea Church hall – contact Roberta Smith 353-2846.

Save the Date – May 13th! Support the Storrington Lions

• Club. Mark your calendar for the 3rd Annual High Tea! The work has begun and planning in place. Details to reserve your spot – coming soon!

Happy Family Day Weekend everyone!

M A b E r Ly- bOLING br O k E

Karen Prytula

613-325-1354 karenprytula33@gmail.com

FREE Event - Archives Lanark Annual General Meeting –

• Attend in person or via Zoom. February 25, 2023, 1pm. Join us to learn more about Archives Lanark, and find out what we as a group of VOLUNTEERS have been up to in 2022 by saving the documentary heritage of Lanark County, and what we have planned for 2023. Our guest speaker will by Kyla Ubbink of Ubbink Book and Paper Restoration. Her presentation is entitled “Dating and Preserving Family Photographs”. You will learn tips and tricks for storing and caring for photographs to ensure their longevity. Kyla will answer your questions after the presentation. This is a FREE event and Archives Lanark is a registered charity. To register, please email your request to info@archiveslanark.ca and a link will be forwarded to you on the day of the meeting along with our AGM Report if you are attending via Zoom. If you are attending in person, the meeting will be held at Archives Lanark, 1920 Conc.7, Drummond Centre. Following the presentation, light refreshments will be available and Archives Lanark will be open for those wishing to peruse the archives.

MISSISSIPPI

Pearl Killingbeck

613-278-2127

Thank you, Elaine, for the visit last Sunday and for filling up • my water bottles and cutting up onions and for bringing the chili supper – it was delicious and the visit was lovely. Thank you to Harriet Riddell and Shirley Mumby for the visit on Tuesday. We had a great visit with lots of laughs and the huge apple turnover was delicious.

I soon expect to see Miss Christine drive into my yard in her • bionic car - just sitting back doing nothing because it drives itself. If she isn’t sitting in it, she should be walking beside it. Hope it has learned how to park itself.

Thank you Wendy for all the magazines, lotions, the tasty • chicken dinner, dessert and shoveling the ice off my front steps. We had a wonderful visit and it was great to see you again.

Prayers and get well wishes for Bob DeLisle who has surgery on February 13th. We are all praying that everything

Continued to page 9

Sharbot Lake Chiropractic & Wellness

Dr. Gian Kaillon

Sharbot Lake 613.279.2100 www.sharbotlakechiropractic.ca

Muscle Knots (Myofascial Trigger Points) 2/2

As discussed last week muscle knots (myofascial trigger points) may affect up to 85% of the population and can typically be found in your back, shoulders, and neck. Depending on where in the body the muscle knot is located, it may cause seemingly unrelated pain in other areas. For example, a muscle knot in the neck can send pain into the base of the skull, causing a tension headache.

97% of people with chronic pain have trigger points, and most people with chronic neck pain have them. There are, however, certain risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing muscles knots such as aging, disease, stress, fibromyalgia.

Diagnosing a muscle knot requires a physical examination by an experienced professional such as a chiropractor. The examiner will assess the area of concern for three things: a taut band of muscle, a tender nodule, and the reaction of the patient to physical pressure. Some treatment options are stretching, chiropractic, massage therapy and exercise just to name a few. The goal of treatments is to release the trigger point to reduce pain and increase mobility by breaking up the knotted tissue and calming inflamed nerves.

Improving posture by sitting in a relaxed position and creating an ergonomic friendly workspace can help reduce and prevent muscle knots. Take opportunities throughout the day to rest and incorporate exercise into your routine and do not overdo it when lifting heavy objects. Lastly, make sure your diet includes a healthy mix of calcium, potassium, and magnesium, and drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated.

by Jeff Green

In their debate over upgrades to ambulance service in Kingston, Frontenac County Council has opted, as planned, to introduce a new 12-hour shift in Kingston starting in April of this year.

As well, in response to a proposal from Chief of Frontenac Paramedics Gale Chevalier, an additional 12-hour shift, also based in Kingston, will be added in October.

The new shift is being brought forward as a response to added demand in the City of Kingston, as well as the impact of the stress that the Kingston General Hospital Emergency department has been under over the last 2 years.

“Until recently, we were doing well in Kingston in terms of offload times, freeing up the ambulances to receive other calls. But delays are up by 775% over the past year because of what has been going on in the hospital. This puts a lot of added stress on paramedic resources,” she told Council at their budget meeting last week.

When an ambulance arrives at hospital, the paramedics cannot leave until the hospital is able to take over responsibility for the patient.

“The hospital is taking measures to address the problem, but between that and the increase in call volumes we have seen, there is a lot of demand for ambulance service in Kingston,” she said.

The statistics bear this out.

One of the measures used for paramedic services is called unit hour utilization (UHU). The accepted target for UHU is 0.35. But in Kingston, the UHU rose to 0.71 in 2022, Chevalier said.

The net impact of that level is slower response times in Kingston, and in addition a tendency for resources to be pulled from rural ambulance services in Frontenac County at Sydenham, Parham, and Rob-

ertsville, into Kingston.

This happens either through standby when there are no ambulances available in Kingston, or when a rural ambulance brings a patient to Kingston hospital, and then begins being assigned to call after call in Kingston.

Ambulance dispatch is seamless. The closest available ambulance is assigned when a call comes in, regardless of where that ambulance is normally stationed.

“The increase in service in Kingston with these new 12 hour shifts, should make more resources available in Frontenac County,” said Chevalier.

Chevalier presented Council with three options to finance these new shifts going forward, each impacting service on Wolfe Island.

The first option would maintain an hour shift, and a 16 hour standby system on the island. However, Chevalier pointed out that for a couple of reasons, Frontenac Paramedics have been unable to staff that service over the last 18 months.

“In fact, it was staffed only 6 days in 2022, and not at all so far in 2023” Chevalier said.

Part of the reason the service is almost never available is that all volumes are very low on the island. The UHU is 0.07. The other is that unionised paramedics can opt to work a 12 hour shift in Kingston when one is available, instead of an 8 hour shift on Wolfe Island, so they opt for the better paying shift most of the time.

The second option proposed by Chevalier would be to upgrade the Wolfe Island service to 12 hours, thus making it easier to staff, in the hope that service will be more available than it is now. This option is more expensive than the first option.

The third option is to eliminate the Wolfe Island Service from the budget, allocate the 8 hours to the new Kingston shift, and only have to increase costs to cover 4

hours of the new 12-hour shift.

Frontenac Islands Mayor Judy Greenwood-Speers said that she wanted to see Wolfe Island service maintained, and pointed to close calls on the island that would have been less risky if there were an ambulance available, instead of depending on the ferry to return to Kingston and pick up an ambulance.

“I don't like the idea of Wolfe Island being without ambulance service, which is provided to everyone else. The residents pay taxes just like everyone else and we have a higher proportion of seniors than other townships in Frontenac County, and seniors use these services the most,” she said.

South Frontenac Mayor Vandewal took exception to Greenwood-Speers comments.

“It is not true that Wolfe Island does not have ambulance service, any more than it is true to say North Frontenac does not have service if the Robertsville ambulance is on standby or answering calls in Kings-

ton. An ambulance will be sent to any call that comes in from North Frontenac. It may come from Parham, or somewhere else some of the time, but it will be sent and there is service. When someone moves to Ardoch, they should be aware that they are not going to get the response time for an ambulance that they would get in Kingston, that's the way it is.

“There are services in Kingston ready to answer calls on Wolfe Island right now, and if the new ferry comes in May like it is supposed to, they can get there quicker than they do now. To say there is no service is just not true.”

In a straw vote, Council indicated they will be supporting option 3, cutting the Wolfe Island service and funding 2 new 12 hour shifts in Kingston, starting in April and October respectively.

The final decision will come this week, when the Frontenac County budget is up for approval.The final decision will come this week, when the Frontenac County budget is up for approval. ■

Frontenac County Paramedic Service extended by one shift.

Addington Highlands Continues Strategic Priorities Discussions

by Craig Bakay

Addington Highlands Council finished up its General Discussion on Strategic Priorities (continued from Jan. 31) before its regular meeting on Feb. 7, looking at a large number of topics: communication and ratepayer priorities, roads and waste sites, community facilities, parks and playgrounds, tax rate, economic development, cell coverage and broadband, and organizational structure and staffing.

“We’ll be starting off where we’re at and building on it as we move on,” said Dep. Reeve Tony Fritsch, kicking off the communication discussion.

There was much back and forth regarding the best way to communicate with ratepayers, including ideas for more print options as opposed to electronic means.

“We all know that there are some people who will never see electronic communications,” he said.

“We’ve already started with a roads policy,” said CAO/ Clerk-Treasurer Christine Reed. roads and Waste sites

“I think with most of this stuff, we’re already there,” said Coun. Kirby Thompson. “We have a plan each year as to what’s going to be tar and chipped, etc.”

“Yeah, and it’s coming more with our asset management software that the County is helping us with,” said Roads and Waste Supervisor Brett Reavie.

“I was talking to our waste attendant and there’s more recycling coming in than garbage,” said Thompson.

“The grinding of brush and wood is going well and that’s

making those items take up a lot less space, so that our waste sites should last longer.

“And it costs a lot to close them (more than $700,000 to close Kaladar).”

“We’re still having problems with large bulky items like couches and mattresses,” Reavie said. “They have springs so when you compact them, they just bounce back up.” Community Facilities, Parks and Playgrounds

“We’re generally able to get larger projects done and smaller projects like maintenance are scheduled in the budget every year,” said Reed.

“We do a fantastic job on our large projects like the Health Centre or the HVAC system in the Denbigh Community Centre,” said Fritsch. “But we struggle with the smaller jobs like getting something painted because we can’t find anybody to do them.” tax rate

“Our goal is to keep the tax rate between 2.5 and 3 per cent,” Reed said. “But we could do better in communicating where the tax dollars go.”

“We produce a variety of information,” said Fritsch.

“Our ratepayers are more than welcome to call and talk to any of the councillors or the Reeve,” said Coun. Helen Yanch.

Economic development

“We have the AHEAD committee and County Economic Development and we do what we can to support them,” said Reed.

“Our county is doing a great job and I think our role is to support them, like when they’re offering grants and such,” said Hook. “I just wish we had more projects we could put our teeth into ourselves.”

“It’s always been a challenge for the AHEAD committee to grab something tangible,” said Fritsch. “We spent a lot of effort on promoting Bon Echo in winter, trying to get some traction and then you walk away and the tires go flat.”

Thompson suggested letting aspiring business owners know the County has a program to help them get going.

Cell Coverage and Broadband

“My pet project,” said Reeve Henry Hogg. “I hate to tell you this but the Eastern Ontario Regional Network has advanced things to 2026 instead of 2025 for completion.

“I think they were really premature in their announcement — they got a lot of people excited and now it’s dragging on — the whole duty to consult and archeological assessment has caused delays.

“I’m not making excuses, I’m just passing the word.”

“Talking to a lot of people last fall and asking them ‘what’s your issue’ this was it,” said Thompson. “I don’t know what to do other than lobbying because you can’t tell Bell to do this or Rogers to do that.

Organizational Structure and Staffing

“I believe one of our duties as Council is to keep in good discussion with staff so that collectively we’re keeping abreast of new duties and/or accountabilities,” said Fritsch. ■

Staffer Fires Back Over Internet Live Streaming Comments

By Craig Bakay

An email to Addington Highlands Council provoked a response from Dep. Clerk/Planning Secretary Patricia Gray, who was named by title in the email.

The email, added to the Feb. 7 meeting agenda, questioned how staff goes about the process of getting video of the Township Council meetings onto the Internet (YouTube) and called for the hiring of a dedicated IT position as well as questioning the equipment the township owns. It also referenced a staff comment at the Jan. 31 Special Council meeting that providing the internet feeds can be “stressful.”

The email said: “Council has the power . . . to seek help/training for staff. Staff could easily commit $1,000 or more or less to staff training and/or IT support. Maybe equipment or software needs to be upgraded. Regardless of the best solution, Council needs to acknowledge that support is needed and support staff accordingly.”

“The internet (component) makes for additional elements of stress,” Gray replied. “We worry about internet connectivity, will everyone be able to join in, be seen and heard and will there be any glitches beyond our control.

“As staff, we are accountable to the public, we understand that, but the scrutiny we have been receiving is not just a watchful eye or keeping us accountable.

“There have been accusatory statements aimed at our performance and integrity.”

She said that as humans, they make mistakes sometimes, but they have been doing this in one form or another since the pandemic hit, initially with help from the County and now on their own.

“In my opinion, we do not need additional staff or upgrades to tech,” she said. “We just need to be given a break.”

She said that the criticism isn’t widespread.

Sydenham

“We only hear it from a few,” she said.

“Nice response, well done,” said Coun. Ken Hook.

“Very professional response,” said Dep. Reeve Tony Fritsch.

Fritsch went even further, moving that staff be directed to “consult with a solicitor and investigate policies how to prevent and/or deal with harassment of members of staff and Council by members of the public.”

Fritsch said he made his motion (which passed) after consultation with Reeve Henry Hogg and then (along with Hogg) with senior staff.

More about communication

Roads and Waste Supervisor Brett Reavie asked Council for direction as to how to proceed after receiving an email from Marlean McLean that asked a number of questions she said were brought to her by “ratepayers.”

“I just don’t know the legitimacy of people claiming they’re a spokesperson,” said Coun. Kirby Thompson. “It’s almost like hearsay.”

“There are 16 questions and it’s not just a couple hours work to answer them,” said Dep. Reeve Tony Fritsch. “I don’t have an issue with people asking questions but the issue here is the volume all at once and that takes the resources of staff away from other work.

“Not that there isn’t validity in some of the questions.”

“Several of these questions are on the political side and not just a one-person job,” said Coun. Helen Yanch.

Fritsch moved to direct Reavie to “respond to questions that have factual answers” and not questions related to

opinions or strategy.

“The rest will be deferred and we’ll deal with it later,” Fritsch said.

renovation to Medical Centre Pharmacy

Council approved CBO/MLEO/Facilities Manager David Twiddy’s request to award a $32,040 project to Morden Engineering and Contracting for renovations to the Northbrook Medical Centre pharmacy in order to provide more space for waiting patients as well as allow the pharmacy to return to having walk-in traffic.

Twiddy said that the project is somewhat time sensitive in that Morden is doing work in the area soon and would be available.

CAO/Clerk-Treasurer Christine Reed said that in her opinion, awarding this job wouldn’t be in conflict with the Township policy of putting jobs out to tender as Morden has become something of a de facto contractor of record for the Township.

“Expanding the waiting area would mitigate the lack of foot traffic, which has been a problem since the pandemic began in 2020,” he said.

“I think it’s essential we get something done for them,” said Reeve Henry Hogg. Community safety

CAO Christine Reed said they’re looking for citizens to be part of a group that would meet with the OPP to discuss community safety. ■

Dear Community and Comrades:

This is an URGENT message to the ARDEN and NORTHBROOK area communities. We at the Branch 334 Legion are at a crossroads and must make a decision about the best route forward for our survival.

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WE WANT CARPENTERS!

You could be building beautiful custom homes,barn and log house conversions, decks, additions, plus a variety of other renos! We specialize in Timberframes!

Work in Perth, Westport, Lanark, Carleton Place, Central & South Frontenac and surrounding areas!

Looking for skilled carpenters and labourers interested in becoming carpenters to join our team!

Full time, year-round projects. Competitive pay, benefits!

Email resume to info@jonescbs.ca

Call us at 613-268-2135

Visit our website at www.jonecbs.ca

Please come out to support our local legion or we will have to close the doors permanently. Although we have a strong membership complement, we are not getting the patronage that is required in order to keep this branch a viable entity in the future without your assistance.

It is your Branch and this is your community. The time has come that we all sit down as a community and discuss the survival of our branch.

With this in mind, we will be holding a special “General Meeting” on Sunday February 26, 2023 at 2:00PM to discuss this important matter. We encourage current members and residents of our community who have attended our past dinners, dances and Remembrance Day services to attend to assist us in saving our Branch.

Please come out and give us your valued input.

Your sincerely,

Dave Moore President, Arden Legion Branch

334

SCHONAUER, Harold Andrew “Ted”

October 17, 1931 – February 07 2023

Former Life Long Resident of Ardoch

Passed away peacefully in Sydenham on Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at the age of 91. Predeceased by his devoted wife Sheila (Tryon) of 41 years. Cherished father of Louise Clark (Richard). Proud grandfather of Michael (Anna), Elizabeth (Corinne), and Emily Bowen (Andrew). Predeceased by his parents Joseph Isadore and Edith (Fraser) as well as his siblings and in-laws Joe (Doris), John (Mary), Lillian (John Mann, Laverne Cousins), Roy, Mary (Howard Jones “Bunny”) and Cecile (Ernest Beckett “Bud”). Also predeceased by his father and motherin-law Leonard and Helena (Cox), brotherin-law Russell Tryon and sister-in-law Jean Tryon. Survived by his brother and sisterin-law Boyd and Donalda Tryon. Ted will be lovingly remembered by his many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at the Goodfellow’s Funeral Home, Parham on Sunday, February 12, 2023 from 2:00 – 5:00 pm. A Private Family Interment will be held in the spring at St. Killian’s Cemetery, Ardoch. Memorial donations made in Ted’s memory to the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences, photos, and memories can be shared with the family at www.goodfellowsfuneralhome.com.

613-375-6254

S HANNON, (Mary) Marjory passed away peacefully on friday february 10, 2023 in her 103rd year.

Marjory was predeceased by her parents william and alice Mcelroy, her husband clifton and her son terry. Marjory will be sadly missed by her children John, ed (Bonnie-Gaye) and roger.

proud Gram of Luke (Morgan), Jake (Harlie), ciera (cameron), aly (Mark) and Lyndsay.

proudest Great Gram to sadie, Brett, sawyer and cooper.

aunt Marj will always be remembered by her many nieces and nephews.

the family would like to thank all the staff at Providence Manor in particular the Montreal 3 staff for the special care received over the last 10 months. donations in Marjory’s name can be to the Battersea united church or the Heart and stroke foundation. as per Marjory’s request there will be no service and cremation has taken place.

Robert Carl Harvey

october 14, 1940 to february 9, 2023

passed away peacefully at the perth & smith falls district Hospital on february 9, 2023 after a brief illness at the age of 82 years. Beloved husband and best friend of toots (Keirstead)

Harvey. proud and loving father of Jeff (Kelly), Craig (Teri) and Brett (shelley). Bob will be missed by his loving grandchildren sarah, andrea, Joe and Keirsten, Michelle (alex) and Jake (Becky), Jon and emily; and his greatgrandchildren chloe, annie, Lawson and amelia. the family would like to thank the medical staff at Perth site of the perth & smith falls district Hospital for their compassionate care.

Bob was the barber in sharbot Lake for 58 years, and had many other interests including municipal council, horse racing, hunting, ginseng and fur buying. However, the most important thing to Bob was always his family.

in keeping with Bob’s wishes, cremation has taken place. a private family service will be held at a later date. in care of Goodfellow’s funeral Home in parham, online condolences can be expressed through their website. for those who wish, donations can be made to the perth & smith falls district Hospital foundation or the central frontenac fire and rescue.

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By Jeff Green

Anne Prichard, Executive Director of Frontenac Business Services (FBS),

appeared for South Frontenac Council at their meeting last week (February 7) to introduce the services offered by FBS to the new council.

She outlined the support that FBS offers to local businesses , including the two major mandated service categories of the agency.

FBS is funded by Fed Dev, which is part of Industry Canada, and is overseen by a volunteer board of directors made up of business owners and other residents of Frontenac County.

The two mandated service categories are business advice and training, and business loans.

“We step in when traditional sources, such as banks, are not available, sometimes to provide bridge financing until other financing can be secured,” she said.

In addition, FBS works on promoting their own brand, “people can't use our services if they don't know that we exist,” said Prichard, and on business promotions for Frontenac businesses, with a focus on food and beverage businesses.

The FBS loan portfolio has grown to $6.5 million, of which about $2 million is regional relief funding that the government provided so it does not pay any interest but still created admin costs for FBS, “but that is a story for another day,” she said.

Accommodations and Food services, retail, and construction represent about 3/4 of the FBS loan portfolio.

FBS launched a food and beverage website last year to highlight the food and beverage sector in the county, which Prichard said has grown from one business when she started working on it 15 years ago, to 23 now, including Grains and Goods Bakery in Sydenham.

Finally she mentioned that one of the biggest challenges for bringing in and retaining businesses in Frontenac County is the lack of employment lands and available spaces for lease.

Obituary

She used FBS as an example.

“It took us 9 years to find a suitable office space. If I wasn't mandated to be in Frontenac County, I wouldn't have remained and that is what we find. It is a big problem,” she said.

Committee appointments

Before making appointments, councillor Sleeth proposed a motion to limit the membership on the committee to 5. The motion was approved.

Councillor Trueman was appointed to the Heritage Advisory Committee.

Councillors Pegrum and Ruttan were appointed to the Lake Ecosystem Advisory Committee

Councillors Norm Roberts and Ray Leonard were appointed to the Recreation and Leisure Services Advisory Committee.

Public representatives were then appointed: Michele Zigman, Jeff Monaghan, Holly Wilson, Paige Moreland, Paul Wash, Mark Goudie, Karl Hammer, Shane Peters, and Marie Wilkins to the Recreation Committee; Alan Revill, Janet Brown, Justin Connidis, Terry Mauer, and Tim Upton, Ellie Prepas and Gerrit Buitenhouse to the Lake Ecosystem Committee; and Michael Gemmell, John McDougall, Michael Payne, Wilma Kenny, and Angela Maddox to the Heritage Committee.

summer Meeting dates Changed

Council approved a proposal to set the July meeting date to the 11th, and the August meeting to August 15th.

Change in Vehicle Colours

The days are numbered for the bright orange South Frontenac Township vehicles

A staff report called for light duty (smaller) township vehicles to have their colour changed from orange to white, with a vehicle wrap, over the wheels, with the township logo and brand design in orange.

The proposal did not apply to larger vehicles, such as plows.

The plan was approved by Council.

Official Plan Schedule.

The Official Plan will come back to coun-

Continued on page 9

Obituary

Lake Ontario, inside Ram’s Esso www.goodfellowsflorist.com

www.trousdalefuneralhome.com

L IVIE , Sirene Delores passed away at Kingston General Hospital on february 6th, 2023. Beloved daughter to paul and angela Livie, and birth parents Bryant (amie) peters, and eva Bluebird. adored sister to Kyle Livie, Haedyn fry, waawaate Ma’iingan peters, and step brother Kai walker. dear granddaughter to fred and diane Livie, don and Lois wise, carolyn peters, and Marc (Maanii) pandza. Niece to scott and Beth Livie, Jim and alison cote, adam and Heather wise, Marc (Jenny) peters, shayne Bluebird, tula Bluebird. sirene will be missed by her cousins Jack, Juliette, dylan, sophie, charlie, robertson, findley and many more family and friends. sirene really enjoyed the outdoors and animals. sirene was a very loving soul who will be remembered for her kindness. service has already taken place. as expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the centre for addiction and Mental Health by visiting www.hendrenfuneralhome.com or by calling (705)-738-3222.

MeMOriaM

T HOMPSON, Winston in loving memory of a dear brother winston who passed away february 18th 2002 You are not just a memory or part of the past.You are always remembered, as long as we last. forever missed and Loved by charlotte, allan and family.

Jo-Anne Sly Badour

it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jo-anne Natalie Badour at perth Hospital on february 3, 2023.

Jo-anne is predeceased by her parents ivan and alvena sly, and sister sharon tousignant.

Jo-anne will be missed by her husband robert (Bud) Badour, his children allan, randy, elaine, Jeannette, robin and family, her son steven reynolds, daughter Jackeline, and grandson Jared. Missed by her sister candace claessen (tim) and brother Nathan sly (Julie), nieces & nephews, relatives & friends. special thank-you for allan Badour for taking care of our needs at this time. a celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lue of flowers, donations to the Heart and stroke foundation would be appreciated by the family. cards of condolences can be forwarded to robert (Bud) Badour at: 5-1096 B clement road sharbot Lake, ontario K0H-2p0

In loving memory of Donna Rose Revelle

Juyl 2 1961 - februray 11, 2021 predeceased by her father Kenneth, mother olive, brothers darrell and Mark.

it’s been two years since you left us, and i still miss you every day.

i love you, sweetheart, to the moon and back your cowboy, Jack

MeMOriaM

T HE C LASSIFIEDS

Ad Rates: Classified Text ads: $10.62 + HST per insertion for 20 words & under; 20¢ each extra word.

Deadline: 4 pm Monday; Ph: 613-279-3150, Fax: 613-279-3172; info@frontenacnews.ca

AuTOMOTIVE

Kaladar auto rECyClinG. Car & truck parts. Used cars, $600 & up. We take tradeins. We buy farm equipment, tractors, loaders for parts. 11520 Hwy 41; 613-336-9899; 613885-8644

KinnEy auto WrECKinG Station Road, Kaladar. 4x4 trucks & parts for sale. Scrap cars, stoves, fridges wanted. 613-336-9272.

F O r rENT

1 BEdrooM aPt. with living room, ground floor, in 4-plex. Kaladar, available. $750 +hydro, first/last & references required. 416-554-9746

assistant Cook (Rate of Pay: $21.74/hour)

Southern Frontenac Community Services is a rural based organization focused on working with others in the provision of health and social services that meet the needs of our community. The Cook will take direction from the Lead Cook and prepare nutritious meals for our senior clientele, taking into consideration special dietary requirements and tight timelines. The Cook will use knowledge of commercial kitchens and safe food handling practices to perform duties accordingly. This is a part-time position (min. 14 hrs/ week) with potential for additional hours, based in Sydenham, ON.

Primary duties:

• Working Thursdays and Fridays for the Meals on Wheels program and prepare food for our Friday delivery, based on menus and instructions from the Lead Cook.

• Maintain a safe, healthy and clean kitchen that meets or exceeds KFL&A Public Health Inspection and Safe Food Handling requirements

• Cook with, mentor and inspire kitchen volunteers.

Please reference our website for a more detailed job description: https://www. sfcsc.ca/career-opportunities

requirements:

- Cooking experience with demonstrated ability to read and follow recipes

- Willingness to take direction from Lead Cook

- Knowledge in the area of commercial kitchen equipment and regulations

- Knowledge of nutrition and special dietary requirements for seniors

- Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently but also collaboratively with a diverse team

- Ability to remain calm and respectful under pressure

- Able to meet the physical demands of the role (e.g. standing, lifting up to 40lbs)

The successful applicant will be asked to provide proof of eligibility to work with vulnerable persons by submitting a completed criminal record check with vulnerable sector check.

to apply: Send a resume and a cover letter clearly indicating how you meet the role requirements to Southern Frontenac Community Services via email to chantal.tyrell@sfcsc.ca with Assistant Cook in the subject line by February 24, 2023.

We are committed to inclusive and accessible employment practices –please notify Chantal Tyrell if you require accommodation for any part of the recruitment and selection process. We thank all applicants, however, only those receiving an interview will be contacted.

F O r rENT

rEnt ME. 613-336-1729. Ask for Bruce. 2-bedroom, shared kitchen, $1100 plus hydro and propane. No Internet. North of Bon Echo

FOr SALE

CEntral BoilEr Classic OUTDOOR FURNACES can eliminate your high heating bill. Buy NOW and save up to $550! Call today 613539-9073. www.thefurnacebroker.com

CEntral BoilEr outdoor FurnaCEs offer the Classic, the Maxim and the New Edge. Your local Dealer, Wood Heat Solutions, Frankford, ON, 613-398-1611; Bancroft, ON 613-332-1613. www.chesher.ca

sHiPPinG ContainErs: Seacans Storage

Containers, 7ft 10ft 20ft 40ft 45ft Steel garden sheds call 613-354-8744 or online http://IngeniousStorage.com

HELP WANTED

HousEKEEPinG - cottage Sharbot Lake. Spring cleaning, plus routine summer cleaning if available. 613-692-2054 email dkdods@ gmail.com

HuNTING

FirEarMs & HuntEr EduCation CoursEs – Call 613-335-2786

SErVICES

adVanCEd FootCarE – rn. “Let me take care of your feet” – in home foot-care. Diabetic care, fungus treatments, corns, callous, ingrown nails. Call 613-929-8956

HandyMan sErViCE 40 years experience. Repairs, home construction/ renovation including window installation, tile, siding, plumbing etc. No job too small. Call Lloyd Hartwick 613 -539-2544.

PaintinG - Drywall & Plaster Repair, Interior/ Exterior Painting. Call Eric at Men In White 613-200-1127. WSIB compliant, fully insured. PHotoCoPy sErViCES available at The Frontenac News, 1095 Garrett St., rear building, Sharbot Lake. Competitive prices! 8½” x 11” - Black & White 25¢ ea; Colour copies 60¢ ea. 613-279-3150.

PuMP rEPair: Licenced well technician on staff with 15 years experience. Call Mark, Verona Hardware, 6723 Main St., Verona. Ph. 613-374-2851 rEnoVations, Framing, Drywall, painting, laminate & vinyl flooring, brush and tree removal, and more. Contact Todd Gursby for estimates, 613-278-1300

TOWING

B’s radiCal ridEs Towing & Recovery. James Mills owner/operator. 613-335-5050; website: bsradicalrides.ca

WANTED TO buy

.410 GauGE sHotGun sHElls, Older 12 gauge shotgun shells. Please call Mike at 613483-4887

bEEF

cil on April 11, and will then be presented to an Open House at the Verona Lions Hall on April 25, and at the Storrington Centre on May 23. A statutory public meeting will take place on May 30 (with a virtual option). The final draft will come to council in the summer, with a view towards adoption by Council and the final approval by Frontenac County set to occur in the fall.

Director of Development Services, Brad Wright, said he expects it to be the early fall when the new plan is approved.

Mayor Vandewal, and Councillor Ruttan, both pointed out that, even with all of the public opportunities to comment, so much of the plan is subject to provincial directives, and Council had little or no ability to make changes that reflect the perspective and desires of either the public or members of council.

Petworth and Bellrock Mills to be demolished

Staff completed an assessment of the cost of bringing the two mills to a point where they can be safely used as public buildings, and found that it would cost between $1.25 and $2.5 million due to “rot and deterioration” to restore the Bellrock Mill.

The cost to repair the Petworth Mill is estimated at about $1.27 million.

Columns Cont from p5

goes the way it's supposed to go.

Happy belated birthday to my son-in-law, • Richard Lemke.

Thank you to some friends for providing • some other bits of news for my column: The community centre hosted the monthly • potluck on Wednesday, Feb 8th with the 'men in charge'. Everyone enjoyed a bountiful array

Director of Public Services Kyle Bolton recommended that because of the costs, that council consider demolition instead. The first step in that process would be to see if one wall of the Petworth Mill can be saved, as well as some of the equipment from the Bellrock Mill, followed by designing the use of both sites as municipal parkettes.

Bolton recommended hiring a consultant, at a cost of $140,000, to design the demolition and “park space design” for the two sites.

While no one on council objected to the plan, Councillor Doug Morey spoke to the issue.

He said that he regrets that the buildings are in such a state that the cost of retaining them has run over an amount that the township can afford.

“The idea that we the public will not have access to our heritage is extremely unfortunate, and all we will be left with, at best, are some artifacts and a plaque of some sort, but there is nothing that we can do about it at this point.”

“Unfortunately, by the time these properties are turned over to us, they are in such a state of repair that there is nothing we can do but tear them down,” said Mayor Vandewal.

Kyle Bolton's proposal was accepted by Council. The $140,000 cost will come out of carry over projects. ■

of dishes and some socializing afterwards. Games Night is held the first and third Tues- • day of each month at 7pm at the Community Centre. Everyone is welcome.

The exercise group has re-started at the • Community Centre every Wednesday. Join us at 9:30-10:30 for a Regular Fitness class or we have a Gentle Fit/Balance class at 11-Noon where less mobile participants use a chair if they feel the need. We have fun and socialize with friends too.

P.S. If anyone has some news to share for • this column, please give Pearl a call or contact her “secretary” Alice Gilchrist.

TOWNSHIP OF A DDINGTON H IGHLANDS

N EW A ND uSED A PPLIANCES

USed ReFRIgeRATORS

Stoves, washers, dryers, freezers, dishwashers. 3 months old and up. Sold with written guarantees. Fridges $100 and up. neW AppLIAnCeS

At the lowest prices in the area. Trade-ins accepted on new appliances. Big selection to choose from. We Sell Gas Refrigerators pAyS CASh $$$

For good used appliances in working order or not, but no junk please. VISA and MASTERCARD accepted. We have our own financing also. Shop at our competitors and then come see for yourself quality at low prices. Open evenings & 7 days a week. We deliver

CATTLE - Any Type Bulls, Cows, Calves

613-353-2460

W ILL PAy C ASH

South Frontenac & Surrounding area

The Township of Addington Highlands currently invites Request for Proposals for:

rFP #2023-01: Consulting services for Environmental monitoring and reporting of township Waste sites. Sampling starts Spring of 2023

Proposal Closing Date: 1:00 pm, March 13th, 2023

Documents are available from: Brett Reavie Road & Waste Management Supervisor Township of Addington Highlands Ph: (613) 336-2286 Ext:206 FAX: (613) 336-2847 roadsandwaste@addingtonhighlands.ca

(Lowest or any quotations not necessarily accepted)

T HE C O r PO r ATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF A DDINGTON H IGHLANDS

Public notice

The Township of Addington Highlands is seeking two (2) community members to participate in a working group being established to discuss community safety issues.

Expressions of interest should illustrate the contribution that that individual would bring to the discussion surrounding community safety. As the Township is looking for equal representation from both Wards, please be sure to include your address or where you own property in your written submission.

Letters are to be submitted to the attention of the Clerk on or before March 1st, 2023, by mail to P.O. Box 89, Flinton, ON K0H 1P0, by fax to 613-336-2847 or by e-mail to clerk@addingtonhighlands.ca.

Inverary

4231 Perth Rd, Inverary

3832 Perth Rd, Inverary

613-353-2155

NORTHERN HAPPENINGS

nortHErn HaPPEninGs listings are free for community groups, and will be published for two weeks. Donations to offset the costs of publication would be appreciated. Other listings are paid or are taken from paid ads elsewhere in the paper. The News makes every effort to be accurate but events should be independently verified by readers.

Friday February 17

sHarBot laKE - sHarBot laKE lEGion suPPEr 3pm.

Sharbot Lake Legion. Pork Chops. Supper at 5:30 pm.

VARIOUS LOCATIONS - FRONTENAC HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Friday 6:30- Sunday 3pm. Various Locations. Multiple activities including storytime, crokicurl demonstrations, winter fun activities, 3 on 3 hockey tournament & more. See FB for details.

Saturday February 18

ardEn - 11tH annual WintEr Fun day Kennebec Recreation Park. See posters or the Lakes’ Facebook page, for all of the details. “bad weather day” Monday February 20

sHarBot laKE - CoMMunity BrEaKFast 7-10:30am. St.

Andrew’s Anglican Church. $10

snoW road - snoW road snoWMoBilE CluB

BrEaKFast 8-11am. Snow Road Snowmobile Clubhouse. Everybody welcome.

MississiPPi station - WintErland 10am-4pm. Back Forty Artisan Cheese. A day of outdoor fun at the farm with great food, drink and winter activities. Details www.artisancheese.ca

sHarBot laKE - FaMily Fun day 10am-2pm. The Child Centre. Snow Shoeing, Sensory Play, and Winter activities. Free to play and chili and bun lunch with donation.

VErona - stylE rEViVal 10am. Verona Free Methodist Church. Free gently used clothing and footwear for all ages.

HarloWE - HarloWE old tiME FiddlErS 1-5pm. Harlowe Hall. Admission $5, entertainers $2. Snacks & food for purchase. All welcome,

nortHBrooK - lol lions danCE 8:15pm-1am. Northbrook Lions Hall. Check FB for details or call 613-217-8710

Sunday February 19

HarroWsMitH - taKE-out turKEy dinnEr Harrowsmith Golden Links Hall. $20. Info 613-372-2410

maPle SyRUP SUPPlieS

evaporator & Pans - Spiles - Buckets

Pipeline Hose & Fittings - Filters

Plastic Containers & Glass Bottles from 100ml up to 4l

Monday February 20

GODFREY - FAMILY DAY IN SOUTH FRONTENAC 11am3pm. Frontenac Community Arena. Snowtubing, snow activities, free skating & more! Volunteers needed. Info recsupport@ southfrontenac.net.

CloynE - tHE CloynE and tHE distriCt HistoriCal

soCiEty MEEtinG 1pm. Barrie Hall. A speaker will discuss the 48th Highlanders of Canada and the connection with the village of Northbrook. All welcome!

Tuesday February 21

Flinton - Flinton dinErs 11am-1:30pm. Flinton Hall. Ham Casserole, Salad, Roll, Dessert. $10 RSVP Katie 613-336-8934 x 229 Flinton - PanCaKE dinnEr 4-8pm. Flinton Recreation Centre. Advance tickets- $6, at the door $8. Contact Maude 905-449-2160 for tickets or visit Finnegan’s General Store. BattErsEa - sHroVE tuEsday PanCaKE dinnEr 5pm. Battersea United Church. Meal $10 includes pancakes, sausages, fruit salad, tea & coffee. Free parking, everyone welcome!

sHarBot laKE - PanCaKE suPPEr 5-6:30pm. St. James Major Church. Proceeds to the food bank. $7 per person, $20 per family.

ardEn - sHroVE tuEsday 5pm. Arden United Church. Pancake supper (free will offering), optional Ash Wed service at 6pm.

VEnnaCHar - PanCaKE tuEsday 5-7pm. Vennachar Free Methodist Church. Enjoy pancakes & sausages, dinner by donation.

Wednesday February 22

oMPaH - CoMMunity CaFÉ 11am. Ompah Hall. Fire Chief Eric Korhonen regarding fire safety. Soup and social to follow. Info Juana 613-279-3151 ext 106 or e-mail juanag@rfcs.ca

Thursday February 23

BattErsEa - storrinGton CEntrE rE-oPEninG 12pm. Storrington Centre. Renovations are complete! All welcome, light refreshments provided. sHarBot laKE - adVanCE CarE PlanninG WorKsHoP 1:30-3:30pm. Sharbot Lake Family Health Team. Learn who is your legal Substitute Decision make and how to have difficult conversations. Register Katie.buckley@sfcsc.ca or 613-376-

6477 x 205.

snoW road - WHitE BrotHEr’s Country Band

7:30pm. Snow Road Community Centre. Tickets $15. Info Mike 613-278-1853

Friday February 24

VEnnaCHar - CoMMunity oPEn MiKE 7pm. Vennachar Free Methodist Church. Great entertainment, all welcome.

Saturday February 25

sHarBot laKE - all you Can Eat BrEaKFast 8-11am. Soldiers Memorial Hall (OSO Hall). All welcome. Adults $10, Kids $5, under 5 free.

PlEVna - 2023 WintErFEst 12-4:30pm. Clar-Mill Hall. Free entry, all welcome. There will be so many fun things to do in and outside! Check North Frontenac township website for details. BolinGBroKE - CaFE niGHt 7-10pm. ABC Hall. Featuring Rock & Roll band Average Height. $5 at the door.

Sunday February 26

ardEn - sPECial “GEnEral MEEtinG” 2pm. Arden Legion. Please come and support our local legion or we will have to close our doors forever! We will sit as a community to discuss the survival of our branch. We encourage members and community residents to assist us in preserving our Branch. BattErsEa - CHris MurPHy in ConCErt 7pm. Battersea United Church. Freewill offering. Guaranteed a great evening!

Tuesday February 28

Flinton - Flinton dinErs 11am-1pm. Flinton Hall. Pulled Pork. $10 RSVP Katie 613-336-8934 x 229

Wednesday March 1

sHarBot laKE - CoMMunity VoluntEEr inCoME taX

ProGraM Rural Frontenac Community Services. Do you need help completing your income tax return? Beginning March 1 we have local volunteers to assist eligible individuals. Info 613-2793151 x 100.

ParHaM - lEntEn lunCH 12pm. Parham Free Methodist Church. Pastor Ken Walton speaking.

Thursday March 2

SYDENHAM - DINERS LUNCH CLUB FOR 55+ 12pm. Grace Hall. Turkey lunch with dessert $10. Musical entertainment. RSVP 613-376-6477 or joanne.silver@sfcsc.ca

Frontenac County Commits $22,000 to Doctor Recruitment

by Jeff Green

rontenac County Council received a request for support after receiving a presentation from Dr. Jeanette Dietrich of the Sydenham Clinic and Deborah Krause, the Executive Director of the Sharbot Lake Family Health Team, in late January.

F

And, during budget deliberations last week, Council decided to create a reserve with a $22,000 contribution

towards the hiring of a head hunter to find at least one doctor.

Also in January, CBC Ottawa profiled Doctor Peter Bell, of the Sharbot Lake Family Health Team, focusing on his intention to retire at the age of 80, and the difficulty the family health team is experiencing as it tries to find a replacement for him.

Dr. Bell began his practice in Sharbot Lake, in a trailer in the parking lot of what is now the Sharbot Lake Country Inn & Crossing Pub, in 1971.

And just last week, Mcleans.ca, published a story based on an interview with Dr. Sabra Gibbens, the only physician serving 2,500 patients in Verona, focusing on the difficulties she has experienced trying to find a second physician to make her practice more manageable and sustainable.

In debating how to support the doctor recruitment initia-

SILVER LAKE

tive, members of council said they were not sure what the specific request from the delegation was.

“They outlined a lot of their needs, and mentioned $100,000 per doctor as an incentive, $20,000 for a shared recruitment officer with L&A County, and $22,000 for a head hunter. I'm not sure what they want from Frontenac County,” said Warden Vandewal. “For myself, I don't like the idea of investing money in healthcare because it is a provincial responsibility.”

Frontenac Islands Mayor, Judy Greenwood-Speers, said “In their own presentation, they said that the most effective means of recruiting doctors, based on interviews with graduates, was personal connections and word of mouth. I think if we let people know about the quality of life we have here, and the fact you can buy a nice house for $400,000, which would cost $1 million in the Musko-

Continued on page 11

All About E ectric Cars

We are open again

Tuesdays and Thursdays 9am-3pm

Appointments & purchases at back entrance. Pre-paid pick up at front entrance.

14 Bosley RD (at Hwy 41) Northbrook, (613) 336-1608

You’re invited to a presentation by Steve Lapp, retired head of the Renewable Energy Department at St. Lawrence College.

Friday Feb. 24, 9am

North Frontenac Council Chamber 6648 Road 506, Plevna

kas or in a city, you might find that is more effective than investing in bonuses or a recruitment officer.”

Dr. Dietrich, Deborah Krause, as well as Doctor Gibbens, made the same presentation in South Frontenac earlier in January, and presentations were also made to Central and North Frontenac Council.

“When they came to North Frontenac, they did not really ask for a financial commitment,” said North Frontenac Mayor Gerry Lichty. “Apparently there is already a bonus for Sharbot Lake, and North Frontenac also contributed to a bonus fund for the Northbrook clinic, which is in L&A but serves our western residents.”

Central Frontenac Mayor Frances Smith, who is also the Chair of the Board of the Sharbot Lake Family Health Team (an unpaid volunteer position) was familiar with the way the bonus system works.

“Sharbot Lake is considered more rural than Sydenham and Verona, by the province, and therefore the Ministry of Health provides a bonus, I think it is $84,000, paid out over 5 years, as an incentive. That funding is not there for Verona or Sydenham,” she said.

At their presentation in Sydenham, the doctor delega-

tion asked South Frontenac Council to consider establishing a bonus fund, something that Kingston City Council has committed to as well.

“I prefer the idea of a headhunter. I think you only pay them the $22,000 if they sign up a doctor,” said Greenwood Speers.

“And then you need to put more in to get a second, or a third doctor, but I get your point,” said Ron Vandewal.

Council decided to add the $22,000 budget line to their budget, the only discretionary spending they did approve in 2023.

This new fund is not the only direct financial commitment to an external healthcare organisation.

Since 2007, Frontenac County has supported the ongoing fundraising efforts of the Kingston Hospital Foundation. For 10 years, it was through an annual donation of $54,000, and since 2018, it has been $55,106 each year, a commitment that runs until 2027.

The Kingston hospital is the tertiary care centre serving Southeastern Ontario and is also the home of the Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario.The Kingston hospital is the tertiary care centre serving Southeastern Ontario and is also the home of the Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario. ■

This cardinal arrived at the home of Judy Reynolds last week. It remained for over an hour and she was able to pick it up and flew away. “I’ve never seen a cardinal do that before”, said Reynolds

TOWNSHIP OF SO u TH F r ONTENAC

New S & Publ I c N OTI ce S

Apply for a 2023 Community Grant

Applications for the Community Project Grant Program are now being accepted. Not for profit community organizations including charitable organizations and unincorporated groups who meet the project guidelines can apply until March 31, 2023. For more information see www.southfrontenac.net/grants/.

By-Law Enforcement and Short-term Rentals Survey

We are asking all residents to take a short, 5-minute survey about by-law enforcement and the regulation of short-term rentals in the Township. Please take the survey by March 31 at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SFbylaw.

Roads Study

In 2022, the Township hired WSP/Golder, an engineering firm to do a comprehensive roads needs study. The study assessed the state of the municipal-owned roads in the Township. Overall, the Township’s network average ratings for hard surfaced roads were “Good” due to our ongoing pavement preservation and maintenance programs, and “Fair” for gravel roads. You can find a summary of the key findings, an A-Z list of roads and their conditions and the full report at engagefrontenac.ca/roads-study. The study provides accurate data to help Council make informed decisions when deciding which roads to prioritize for road work in the short-term and long-term.

TOwN HAll

Family Day in South Frontenac

THINGS TO DO

Join us at the Frontenac Community Arena on Monday, February 20 from 11 am – 3 pm for our Family Day in South Frontenac community event. There will be snowtubing and other snow activities, horse drawn wagon rides, free skating and more. Volunteers needed. For more information email recsupport@southfrontenac.net.

Storrington Centre Reopening Celebration

Members of the public are invited to join us for the reopening of the newly renovated Storrington Centre, 3910 Battersea Road on Thursday, February 23 at 12 noon. Light refreshments will be served.

Community Recreation & Leisure Services Fair

South Frontenac service clubs, sport leagues, teams, and community associations are invited to participate in the upcoming Community Recreation & Leisure Services Fair on March 25 at the Storrington Centre in Sunbury. The fair is free and will be from 10 am – 2 pm. Space is limited, so be sure to RSVP by March 1. For more information and to save your spot, email recsupport@southfrontenac.net or call 613-453-6846.

2023 Swim & Day Camp Registration

Our Swim & Camp program is a place where children and youth belong, grow, thrive, and lead. Children ages 4 - 12 are welcome to join our enthusiastic, energetic, caring staff members in a safe environment that encourages children to realize their potential and follow their dreams. Our camps are hosted at The Point in Sydenham and Gilmour’s Point in Battersea in July and August. Registration will be open online on March 20, 2023. See our website for more information.

Job Opportunities

• Summer Students: Are you a student looking for a summer job with competitive pay that is rewarding and local in your community? We’re hiring for more than 30 positions including lifeguards, swim instructors, day camp counsellors and general labourers. We’ll reimburse successful candidates for swim certifications. Closing date is February 20

• Operations Technologist: Competition #23-06-PS. Closing date is February 20

• Facilities Technologist: Competition #23-06-PS. Closing date is February 20

For details on all current open positions including salary and job descriptions, see www.southfrontenac.net/careers/.

Bids and Tenders

PS-2023-11 – Multi-Year Pavement Marking Program, in partnership with Central Frontenac Proposal documents must be received by 1:00 pm local time on March 1, 2023. Official forms can be downloaded from www.biddingo.com/southfrontenac.

Planning Applications & Public Meetings

Council and the Committee of Adjustment hold regular public meetings to review planning applications and to invite public input. Please see our website under Open for Business/Current Planning Applications for a list of applications that are scheduled for a public meeting or in the public review period.

Upcoming Meetings

Here is a list of upcoming Council and Committee of the Whole meetings:

• February 16, 2023 – Committee of the Whole – 9 am

• February 21, 2023 – Council – 7 pm

• March 7, 2023 – Council – 7 pm

How to Participate

Public meetings take place on Zoom (computer and telephone) and are streamed live on our Facebook page @SouthFrontenacTwp. Go to the Events Calendar on our website for the link to register. If you want to attend the meeting in person, please email jthompson@southfrontenac.net before noon on the day of the meeting to confirm if space is available.

lIVING HeRe

Farm Vendors Wanted – Frontenac Farmers Market

The Frontenac Farmers Market is gearing up for another great season. The market has a new look, and a new day and time! From May to October the market will be held on Fridays from 3pm – 7pm at Centennial Park in Harrowsmith. They already have wonderful vendors lined up for the season but are always welcoming fresh faces and have extended early bird vendor pricing until March 1st. Every week the market will feature live music and special events such as face painters, yoga classes, and much more! For more information and to get involved, visit frontenacfarmersmarket.com.

Changes to Garbage & Recycle Collection – February 20 Family Day Holiday

All garbage and recycle collection will move one day later the week of February 20 due to the Family Day Holiday.

Monday collection moves to Tuesday Wednesday collection moves to Thursday

Tuesday collection moves to Wednesday Thursday collection moves to Friday

The Loughborough Waste Disposal Site will be closed on Monday, February 20. This week’s tip: download our South Frontenac Recycles app and get custom reminders about changes to garbage and recycling collection to your phone!

Winter Road Restrictions in Effect December 1

Just a reminder, there is no parking on Township roads and village streets from 12 midnight to 7 am until March 31, 2023.

Sand and salt mix available

Residents can pick up sand/salt mix any time of the day, 24/7 from our public works yards. We ask residents to be mindful and just take two 5-gallon buckets at a time.

by Jeff Green

The Arden Legion is certainly the longest continuously running service organisation in the former Kennebec Township.

It was founded in 1945 by returning veterans from WWII, and between 1945 and 1983 meetings were held in local homes and at the Kennebec Community Centre.

The first president of the Legion in Arden was Harry Alexander, followed by Claude Parks, Charlie Parker and Bert Brown. Fred Hugh was president from 1948 to 1955, and Howard Jackson served as treasurer for numerous years. Another active participant back then was Edward Wilkes.

It was known at the time as the North Frontenac Legion. In the early 1980s, members decided to build their own hall, which opened in 1983, just across from the Kennebec Community Centre on the Arden Road.

In 1985, the name was changed to Branch #334, and named after Gordon Gaylord, who was a WWII veteran living in Arden.

Since then the branch has played an integral role as a meeting place in Arden. Open seven days a week for many years, it has hosted a side range of different events over the last 40 years, including: New Year’s

levies, fishing contests, fish frys, ATV ral lies, chili cookoffs, pig roasts, corn roasts, car rallies, deer contests and hunter's balls, Christmas and New Year's Eve parties, and more. Throughout the year, there were also various dart tournaments, breakfasts, bake sales, cake auctions, raffles, meat draws and steak suppers.

The Arden Legion has traditionally conducted Remembrance Day Services in Mountain Grove and Arden, and when the Northbrook Legion folded 5 years ago, they added ceremonies in Flinton and Denbigh on the weekend before Remembrance Day in order to provide continuity to the veterans and families of veterans in those communities.

The Legion membership peaked at almost 500, and remained steady in the 150 range right to the 2010s.

But the pandemic has hit the Arden Legion hard.

“We were shut down for almost 3 years,” said Dave Moore, who has been the president for over a decade.

Not only were the financial reserves depleted, keeping payments up on the upkeep of the hall, the pandemic hit a lot of the volunteers hard as well.

“Some people moved away, some have

health issues, and some have just been reluctant to come back since we re-opened,” said Moore.

All of this has led the Legion to an impasse, as the Legion is now only a few months from having to shut down.

“The problem is financial, but it all comes down to a lack of volunteers to keep the hall open more and to run events that bring in the community, and some of the money that we need,” said Moore.

The Legion is open on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings, and they try to open on Thursday afternoons as well.

“We used to be open 7 days a week,” said Moore, “but we don't have the volunteers that we need. Since COVID, people seem to stay home.”

In order to try and turn things around, a public meeting has been called for Sunday, February 26 at 2pm at the Legion (see ad on page 7). The entire extended community is invited, and any and all ideas about what direction the Legion needs to go in, will be more than welcome.

“The first thing is to see how many people come to the meeting,” said Dave Moore, “as long as people show up and are willing to volunteer to make things happen, we will be in business again.”

In 2009, the last remaining convenience store closed in Arden, and the Legion stepped in and started carrying a small line of groceries; milk, eggs, bread, etc so local residents did not have to travel to Sharbot Lake, Tamworth, or Northbrook just for a basic need. It was a case where, if the Legion didn't do it, who would.

That service turned out to be an important bridge for the community, until C4 Convenience opened at the end of 2020.

Now the Legion is looking to the community for that kind of support.

“If we do end up losing the hall, there is no way another one will be built,” said Moore, “this is really our last chance to turn things around.” “If we do end up losing the hall, there is no way another one will be built,” said Moore, “this is really our last chance to turn things around.” ■

Dave and Marg Taylor, backed by Eddie Aston on bass and Bill Parsons on drums, played to a packed Open Mike in 2018 at the Arden Legion.