ND Times Issue 14 2022 July 14

Pickleball: the fastest growing sport in North America

Thursday : 7-9 pm

Chesterville and 7-9 pm at Sam Ault Arena, Winchester

All are invited to join us during the open play times, but players are also free to play at the outdoor courts in South Mountain and Chesterville anytime on their own. Pickleball is known to be a sport for older adults, but it is actually a sport for all ages. Currently, the focus is on adults who, in turn, can teach their children, making it the perfect family sport.

Morgan

With the tremendous support of the Township of North Dundas, pickleball is becoming the fastest growing sport in North Dundas as well.

It all began several years ago with a discussion with the North Dundas recreation staff. At that time, they began planning to introduce pickleball to our township. Unfortunately, the covid pandemic put everything on hold until the summer of 2021. Last summer, as restrictions were being lifted, discussions began again in earnest. At that time, the township repaved and painted lines on the tennis courts in

both South Mountain and Chesterville. (Yellow for pickleball and white for tennis). In addition, they purchased nets, paddles, and balls. This summer, five new courts were established at the Sam Ault Arena, which provides indoor play opportunities until the ice goes back in.

Once the courts were ready, beginner clinics and individual introductory lessons were offered. This was a huge success as there are now more than 85 adults who have participated in these sessions and ready to play. Soon, Drills and Skills clinics will be scheduled to help teach strategies and move those who want to learn more about the game into the

next level of play. The best thing about pickleball is that we are learning new skills, we are being active, and we are having fun! Currently, thanks to the support of the Township of North Dundas, there is no cost to play. For those wanting to try the sport, there are opportunities to join other players (with diverse levels of experience) during open play sessions. The schedule is as follows:

Monday: 6:30-8:30 pm in South Mountain and 7-9 pm at Sam Ault Arena, Winchester Tuesday: 9-11 am Chesterville

Wednesday: 9-11 am South Mountain

You do not have equipment? No worries. Paddles and balls are available during the above open play times. They can also be borrowed from the township office on St. Lawrence St. in Winchester. Alternatively, two volunteers, one from South Mountain and the other from Chesterville, also have equipment available. Contact Cindy at 613-407-4585 (Chesterville) or Dora 613-9892118 (South Mountain) to make arrangements.

To keep up-to-date with what is happening with Pickleball in North Dundas, join Dundas Pickleball Group on Facebook or for more information contact Sandy Laneville at 613-774-2555 or Nancy Williams at 613-774-3200

Smirlholm Farms fundraising event will pack loads of family fun

by Brandon Mayer

“Soak up the sunflowers and ‘bee’ amazed” at Smirlholm Farms this summer. That is the slogan the local farm is using to promote their fundraising event for the Winchester District Memorial Hospital Foundation’s Cancer Care Fund. The fundraising event will take place from July 29 until August 7, with daily opening hours of 10 am until 8 pm.

The fundraising event is sure to pack loads of family fun. It will feature educational displays on bee keeping and wildflowers, horse drawn wagon rides provided by Navandale Farms, a wildflower plot, a beehive set up for observation, tractor rides, and more. Smirlholm Farms honey will also be available for purchase on site.

This type of event is new for Glenn Smirle of Smirlholm Farms. “I’ve never done anything like this before,” he said. “I’m very nervous about the whole thing, and I really

Canada Day celebration draws large crowd

hope it goes well. If I don’t get 1000 people here over the 10 days I’m running the event, I’m going to lose money.”

As nervous as Glenn may be, he has great motives for running the fundraiser for the hospital. “It’s as simple as wanting to give back to the community,” he told the Times. “I’ve lived here all my life and I thought the hospital was a good place to try and give back to.”

Those wishing to attend the event at Smirlholm Farms – located at 65 Main Street in Morewood – can purchase tickets online for $8, or at the door for $10. For online ticket sales, visit http://www.smirlholmfarmshoney.ca/. “When that opens it shows poster, below poster it says ticket details, click on that and it says buy tickets, and when you click on that you can buy tickets,” said Glenn. For more information, contact Glenn at 613-371-0962.

by Brandon Mayer

North Dundas held its annual Canada Day celebration in South Mountain on July 1, with the event drawing a large crowd of people from all over the Township and beyond. The event was held at the fairgrounds, featuring live music in a large tent, refreshments including snacks, drinks, and alcohol, and inflatable attractions for the kids. Event-goers both young and old enjoyed the evening, and the chance to celebrate Canada’s 155th birthday.

Many of the adults in attendance at the celebration took advantage of the opportunity to sit in the tent and relax while enjoying the musical entertainment. Some of the live music was provided by Ambush, a popular cover band known for playing at many area events. When not playing on the bouncy castles, the kids could enjoy entertainment from Little Ray’s Reptiles, Vanderland’s Petting Zoo, a North Dundas Fire Department display, and more. The annual Knights of Columbus BBQ Chicken Dinner was also offered, and the Mountain Township & District Lions Club was instrumental in organizing much of the event.

As activities and inflatables wrapped up for the evening, parents caught up on their socializing and outdoor relaxation while many local kids made their own fun. Two local children had a table set up, and were tasked with handing out a small Canada flag to anyone who asked for one, or to those who seemed to be in need of a little patriotic spirit. One boy made a game out of collecting as many flags as possible, pleading and bargaining with other children to hand theirs over.

Later in the evening, a large group of children of all ages, many of whom had never met each other, organized a soccer game out of what seemed to be thin air. The clean game of friendly sport lasted until sunset. At about 10 pm, the North Dundas Fire Department signaled the beginning of the much-anticipated fireworks display. The fairgrounds lights were switched off in unison just as the first fireworks were launched, creating a brilliant view. The display helped to show why South Mountain was a great location for the event – the crowd remained at a safe distance in the fenced in area, with a perfect view of the fireworks at the northeast corner of the property. The crowd could be heard vocalizing their awe with the show, which lasted about 20 minutes. Cheers and applause erupted when the firetruck horns signaled the end of the show.

This year’s Canada Day celebration was enjoyed by many, and was a great taste of post-pandemic life. Thousands of residents are surely looking forward to what next year has to offer!

Local children Amelia, Jackson, Tyler, Blake, and Jacob enjoying the Canada Day celebrations at the South Mountain Fairgrounds

Fireworks incident highlights need for responsibility

by Brandon Mayer

It is well known that fireworks can be dangerous in the wrong hands, but one woman and her family recently had a traumatic experience that drove the message home.

Nerissa Gurr and her family had just finished watching the fireworks display in Brockville on July 1 when they stopped at the waterfront patio, near the Fat Les’s chip stand. That’s when they got a second unsolicited fireworks display that went badly wrong. “The fireworks were dropped or fell over and started shooting everywhere,” Nerissa wrote online. “One went into the eating area and caught a woman’s hair on fire, and fireworks also struck our three children.” The woman whose hair caught fire had to be taken away on a stretcher by paramedics.

What made the problem worse is that the family who lit the errant fireworks would not take responsibility for the dangerous incident. “The

people who caused the problem tried to walk away like nothing happened, and were confronted and followed by a crowd of people so they couldn’t get away,” Nerissa wrote. Her nine-year-old daughter was hit once in the stomach and once in the leg by rogue fireworks. Another firework hit the back of her infant’s stroller, and then exploded in her six-yearold son’s face, burning his hair off.

Nerissa reports that the family who lit the fireworks became combative when confronted about what happened. The man had to be restrained by security as he was getting angry, and the woman would not even look at or acknowledge Nerissa when confronted about the fact that her three children had been hit by fireworks.

Nerissa described the incident in more detail in correspondence with the Times. “We weren't watching their fireworks,” she said. “We were going for a walk after the fireworks were over, just for something to do. We ended up in front of the res-

Tid Bit Musings

by Elva Patterson Rutters, RSSW

Summer time appears to be the time of musing. As an older adult, you reflect on how you spent your youth as a child and where you dillydallied!. Younger children probably only have a tid bit of reflection. Certainly the hazy, hot days can lend to musing about the future opportunities and endeavors, or just plain wishing.

No-one can hold a candle to the person up in the hay mow stacking hay! Certainly if you are asthmatic that is not the place for you. Nor is fresh sileage silos! Fatalities have unfortunately occurred. Then there are the bee stings that prove to be very toxic to some and just a mere ouch to others. Did you know honey bee and bumble bee

taurant patio in the middle after deciding it was too dark to walk down to the play structure, plus there were a lot of mosquitoes. When we were in front of the patio in the middle of the walkway was when the fireworks started shooting at us.”

Nerissa’s children have not stopped talking about the incident. They are still traumatized by what happened, and are saying that they never want to go to another fireworks display again. “Both of my older kids said their ears were fuzzy and ringing for a couple of days after the incident,” Nerissa said. “Our son was absolutely terrified, I’ve never heard him have such a blood curdling scream before. It was horrifying.” Her daughter has bruises from where the fireworks hit her. One of the fireworks would have went in her infant’s stroller if she hadn’t pushed it forward at the last second.

To Nerissa’s knowledge, no arrests were made, but the police did show up. From what the officer told her, those responsible for the

incident will be charged, and will possibly be paying for the damages done to their stroller. “The worst part was, they had kids with them and still couldn't even recognize their actions and say sorry to people,” said Nerissa.

Fireworks have caused some controversy this year, with info graphics circulating online describing the distress they can cause to various animals and to people afflicted with PTSD. Nevertheless, fireworks displays are a long running Canada Day tradition, unlikely to come to an end anytime soon. The safest way to enjoy a fireworks display is to watch a show put on by professionals, such as a local fire department. However, anyone deciding to put on a fireworks display of their own should be careful to read the instructions on the fireworks they purchase, to ensure they are enjoyed safely. More fireworks safety tips can be found at https:// canadasafetycouncil.org/ fireworks-safety-tips/.

have the same venom, and you can react up to a month after a sting. Now is the time to check the expiration date of your epipen!. Poison ivy seems to love you or hate you and is destined to cause many to go on prednisone to clear up the rash after other measures have been tried, including the plantain plant compress, calamine lotion and so on. There are many memories around fishing, playing in the local quarry, spring fed stream, even catching frogs. The evening was filled by trying to catch the firefly, or even the bats coming out for their feeding time. Scary was the threat of thunderstorms, as so many of the older folks can tell you of houses/barns struck by lightening, or the lightening coming in through the phone

and bouncing off the stove. People and animals have died as a result of being hit. Do you recall staying over at relatives?

What are your memories-good or bad? Can we replicate some of the good for the youth today or even for ourselves. We can still stargaze, picnic, have a huge multi-flavored ice cream cone, enjoy the outdoors, knowing that whatever we choose, it will make today and tomorrow better for you! Imagination is a great tool. Use it!

International Plowing Match & Rural ExpoBook your RV Spot

Stay in the official RV Park of the 2022 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo (IPM 2022)!

The RV Park is located on a rolling 120-acre site in Kemptville. Guests will have convenient access to all of the IPM activities. The site includes two daily admission passes and a shuttle to Tented City, nightly entertainment, on-site dump station and site pump outs are available at the camper's cost.

Be sure to book your site by July 20 to save! There are both serviced and unserviced sites available for visitors.

Serviced Sites (30' x 45') 30 amp: Weekly Rate of $550+hst if booked by July 20, 2022 and $600+hst if booked after July 20.

Unserviced Sites (30' x 45'): Weekly Rate of $500+hst if booked by July 20, 2022 and $550+hst if booked after July 20.

Unserviced Sites (30' x 45'): Daily Rate of $150+hst per day.

If you are interested in booking a spot in the RV Park or are looking for more information, it can be found here: https://www.plowingmatch.org/ipm2022/visitor-info/rv-park

For more information on the 2022 IPM, visit https:// www.plowingmatch.org/ipm2022/

And poof, like magic, it’s gone

by Brandon Mayer

I can’t be the only one who feels like the last two years have been a blur. Pandemic life was something none of us signed up for, but all of us were thrown into it. We need to take seriously the fact that COVID-19 created many victims, reaching far beyond those that lost their lives.

What I remember most from the onset of the pandemic is the disbelief. Much like other adults, I had lived my whole life simply not believing that things like this could happen, or at least that they couldn’t happen to me. I was a grad student completing my placement for a mental health counselling degree, and everything was humming along smoothly. I had various schools that I was travelling to, providing counselling to students as a third-party service provider through my placement site. This was in March of 2020, when the “coronavirus” had already been in the news for several months. A colleague at my placement site lived right behind a building that was slated to host a group

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor, I read with interest your recent article on residential schools and reconciliation. As I read I thought that is was the first reasonable article on the subject that I have seen.

I also have strong feelings about the way many other issues are represented through mainstream media reports.

Thank you, Sandie

of incoming travelers for isolation, and she was very panicked about it. Meanwhile, there were talks of a looming lockdown, and I simply didn’t think it could be possible. A lockdown? In Canada. Yeah right.

I was at work at Winchester Public School when news came through of an upcoming three-week shutdown. A March Break Camp we had been planning was immediately cancelled.

The three-week shutdown turned into six months, followed by three more school closures at various points in the span of two years. Masks became mandatory, stores were shuttered and then opened and then shuttered. Vaccines caused intense debate, division, and protests. Many small businesses were offended at being deemed “non-essential” while big box stores were allowed to sell the very same goods. Some small businesses didn’t survive. When schools were open for in-person learning, students and staff wore masks, learned strict COVID-19 procedures, and were only allowed to interact with

people in their own classes. This past school year, I will never forget a group of third graders coming up to me and asking if they could see what I looked like. This was around January or February, when masks were still mandatory, even outdoors for staff. I had known most of the students for years, but it had been at least 18 months since any of them had seen my face. It felt so surreal to know that I had worked with these kids every day, yet they didn’t know what I looked like. I put some space between us and obliged. They were very excited.

By the time March of this year rolled around, it was difficult to even think back on all that we had been through in the pandemic. Two Christmases, two Halloweens, and two Thanksgivings of nothing feeling the same, with gathering limits and families divided. For many people, especially those reporting to workplaces with masks and enhanced cleaning protocols, not a day went by when the pandemic wasn’t a stain in their minds – a constant weight of stress and

uncertainty. When mask restrictions were lifted, many people, including myself, had trouble adjusting back to normal. Some people chose to keep wearing masks, and others chose to continue staying away from crowded public places.

March 21 was almost four months ago now, and I just recently realized that entire days go by when I forget about the pandemic entirely. COVID-19 doesn’t even cross my mind, and it’s almost as surreal to think we have made it this far as it was to think the pandemic was happening in the first place. Just as quickly as life got turned upside down, most things have now gone back to normal. It was like magic – poof, and the stress was gone.

There have been few things as controversial to write about in the past two years as the pandemic. It has been polarizing, and has facilitated debate ranging in intensity from spirited to downright aggressive. I have therefore tried to stay neutral and leave opinion out of it. I suspect others did as well. When I interviewed

candidates for the recent political election, even the candidates themselves were heavily divided on the state of the pandemic. Most were, at very least, cautious about how they worded their opinions of things such as public health measures.

Just as we must focus on physical health, mental health needs attention. That is why I’m not interested in discussing the past or the future of COVID-19, I’m only interested in discuss-

ing the here and now. We need to live life moment by moment, and the pandemic has certainly taught us not to take anything for granted. It always pays to be careful, but a spark of optimism goes a long way. We all have a pandemic story, though we may not realize it. I did not know I had a “story” until I told mine. So no matter what it brings, cheers to summer 2022. Let us hope that worst is behind us!

On-Site

No matter the task, our expert technicians are ready to help with all your Home & Business needs; we are your Alltec Solution

1-855-425-5832

www.alltec.solutions

Serving North Grenville, North Dundas and surrounding areas

Food banks pivot to meet new needs

Fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, the housing crisis, and the escalating cost of living is changing the way Eastern Ontario’s rural food banks operate.

Food Banks United is a collaborative of six food banks serving rural Eastern Ontario. Its members are seeing a dramatic need to change the way they assist some of their clients, especially those experiencing homelessness. With the rising numbers of homeless, food banks are not only being called on to provide more food more frequently, but they’re also needing to provide different kinds of food, food that doesn’t require a functioning kitchen with a fridge and stove for storage and cooking, for instance.

“With COVID and with the housing crisis, we’re seeing people come through the doors that maybe typically wouldn’t, and we’re having to react accordingly,” HOL executive director Cathy Ashby said. “For instance, we’re serving people who have been living in camping trailers or living in their vehicles. They cannot take five to seven days worth of food at a time. They don’t and they can’t take the same type of food; they don’t have a fridge for meat, they don’t have a stove to cook. So, we have to be creative in what we

give them. So, a lot of fresh fruit, a lot of things like the on-the-shelf milk, cans that have the flip lids like tuna.”

Food Banks United members are finding themselves giving more food more often to the increasing number of clients facing homelessness. Food bank operators noted that it was a bit easier in the winter months when the temperature was colder and food could be left out without fear of it spoiling; the summer heat is here and no doubt, will be for several months to come.

Why are Food Banks United’s food banks seeing increasing numbers of homeless coming through their doors in the last couple of years? Life for many has simply become unaffordable. A single person on Ontario Works (OW), for instance, brings in roughly $733 per month, while a single person on the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) is bringing in roughly $1,132 per month. Housing costs alone exceed the income, leaving little to nothing left for food and other basic needs.

“As food banks, we’re a trusted entity in the communities that we serve, and so people in need come to the door and we’re having to pivot, we’re having to change what we’re doing in order

to meet these needs as best we can,” Bonnie Pidgeon Cougler executive director of South Grenville Food Bank said, noting that they’re no longer receiving government funding in response to the pandemic. “Through the pandemic and through housing becoming more and more of a crisis, we’re at the point now where the people coming through the doors are a different clientele. We’re having to meet their needs in a different way.”

Despite the government’s decision to end pandemic funding to these organizations, the need for their services has increased due to fallout from the pandemic. Food banks are now in a position of trying to serve more people with less. In addition to increasing needs, the nonprofits are dealing with the increased cost of food, as well as the increased cost of operating the buildings that house the food.

“It’s a really precarious situation and we have concerns, so we’re doing our due diligence in getting the fundraising going,” Jane Schoones, team leader of Community Food Share said, noting that it’s not possible to sustain the current level of assistance without increased funding of some sort. “We only have so much money and food, with the

needs of homeless people getting greater, the types of foods that we have to offer is changing. In the past we were not used to having many homeless people come through our doors, when we did, we were generally able to find them housing somewhere, and that’s just not the case anymore.”

Currently, many food bank clients are coming for help for the first time in their lives. They’re facing situational poverty due to the pandemic-influenced rising costs of living. They may only need help for a short period of time, but they need it now, and food banks need help to meet those increasing and pressing needs.

The stigma associated with using a food bank needs to change, as well, as many who need the help are simply going without out of fear of how they’ll be perceived. Meanwhile, food banks are seeing increasing numbers

of working individuals and families needing their services, as well, due to the discrepancy in income versus cost of living.

“We’re seeing a lot more working people using food banks and that just makes sense because the dollars are being stretched too far and let’s hope they don’t have to move because rents out there are extremely high,” Lisa Duprau, executive director of the Agape Centre stated.

Food Banks United’s members are here to help. They’re currently looking at their own operations to find ways to streamline or be creative in meeting the increasing needs. Despite this, they will need the help of their communities, including all levels of government, now more than ever.

Baldwin's Birds

Dundas County Players are on a roll

submitted by Matt Kelly

wright, Mat Kelly.

Colorful Finches

On a beautiful sunny morning, what better time to see all the wonderful color that abounds, both in the garden, from the flowers, and in the plumage of our avian friends. The brilliant blue of the Bluebirds and Bluejays, the iridescent colors of the Ruby Throated Hummingbird, Grackles, Starlings, and male Cowbirds, as well as the reds of the Cardinals and the water-bathing Robins. Also included amongst the reds is the strikingly colored male House Finch, who, when feeding alongside a North American Goldfinch with its superb black and bright yellow feathers, creates a truly spectacular picture. The latter birds make a very stunning sight when they settle on to a lovely green pine tree which then provides a marvelous green "backdrop" to emphasize the yellows more vividly! Our elusive Baltimore Oriole, with its bright orange plumage, is still visiting us and just lands tantalizingly enough for me to grab my camera, but not long enough for me to get a good picture of it! Of course there are many other colorful birds to be seen that I haven't mentioned, and I bet that you can name some more; and, if not, you have got a very revealing colorful treat to come, should you so desire. They are there to be seen and enjoyed, if you look carefully, so hopefully, you will go out and do just that. Remember though, that whatever you do, please stay safe and well.

Cheers, John Baldwin

Following the success of On Golden Pond, directed by Tony Duncan, the Dundas County Players (DCP) are rolling right into the staging of their next show at The Old Townhall this month. This year’s summer production is another in the Mat Mysteries Series of “who done its?”. Entitled The Waffle King Murder, this comedy – murder mystery is a Film Noir, tongue in cheek performance staring Chad Wolfe, who was last seen in Ottawa’s “Oh Canada, Eh?” dinner theatre show, and is a Canadian open stepdance champion and award winning fiddler who has performed across Canada and abroad. He was a principal dancer in the Mirvish production, The Needfire, and toured with Memories of a Don Messer Jubilee. He has performed with Natalie MacMaster, Donnell Leahy, Ashley MacIsaac, and The Great Canadian Fiddle Show.

“This is a perfect summer romp, filled with comedy, murder, intrigue, and the occasional sock puppet”, said Amanda Burger, who has taken up directing her third show for DCP.

Mat’s Mysteries is a series of plays written by local resident and internationally produced play-

“This play centers around P.I. Frankie Muldoon, who is hired to investigate the disappearance of one of the city’s most prominent figures: Duncan “The Waffle King” Leroy. Frankie, whose previous experience mainly involved looking for lost cats, finds himself in a world of kidnapping, murder, and double crosses.

“This mystery-comedy is a laugh out loud comedy, and a loving tribute to the old noir detectives such as Sam Spade and Philip Marlow, although with less experience with the ladies, so to speak”, laughed Amanda Burger.

The Waffle King Murder has cast many returning actors such as Denise Lafortune, who was last seen in the DCP production of “Calendar Girls” to name only one, and some very exciting new comers to the DCP stage. The show runs at the Old Town Hall 417 Main Street East, July 21, 22, 23, and 24. Tickets can be purchased online at DCPlayers.ca or by calling 613 297-0097.

The mission of the Dundas County Players (DCP) is to foster amateur theatre and promote interest in the drama arts and the related arts in North and South Dundas and surrounding areas.

When local businesses work together

by Brandon Mayer

Some North Dundas locals may have already heard about a new creation being served up at the Iron Forge restaurant in Winchester. The “Krazy Dan’s Chicken Burger” is a collaboration between two area small businesses that features the local ingredients Iron Forge owner Shaw Knelson is known for using, with one special addition –the Krazy Dan’s pickles which give it its name.

“Krazy Dan” Shaver runs a convenience store in the tiny town of Lunenburg, southeast of Chesterville. He is also the owner of Krazy Dan’s Pickled Products, which manufactures an assortment of goods including Dan’s pickled wieners, which were featured on the CBC television show,

Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary

David and Valerie Flowers

Married July 2, 1972

Thank you for a wonderful 50 years from your very fortunate husband and the rest of the family

Dragon’s Den, as well as the pickled cucumbers which are now being used in Iron Forge’s chicken burger.

“The burger is topped only with mayo and pickles,” said Shaw, when asked what exactly it consists of. “I have tried countless combinations of ways to top a chicken burger and yet I always come back to the simplicity of sweet mayo and crunchy pickles. The minimal toppings really bring out the flavours of our salt-brined burger. Lastly, an egg-washed, sesame bun holds it all together.”

Sometimes a partnership between two business owners can spring up seemingly in the blink of an eye. “I met Dan through a local farmer who makes his own pickles,” said Shaw.

“He suggested that I meet Dan, as he mass produces his pickle products and

could potentially supply enough pickles for use at our locations. The first time I met Dan we spoke about a collaboration. It seemed like a natural partnership, given that his pickles were the perfect complement to my new chicken burger.”

Dan agrees that his pickles are a great fit for the chicken burger. “I’m not a chicken burger type of guy, I find it’s too dry,” he said.

“But with the pickle on it, that made it.” Dan is no stranger to working with other local businesses. He routinely supplies products for other businesses for special events and shows.

He feels that working with other local businesses is great business practice.

Dan and Shaw would surely agree on what makes good business. “Working with local farmers and suppliers is an integral part of my business model,” said Shaw. “Without our

community’s extensive network of farms and services, we could not carry on at Iron Forge like we do. Each and every item on our menu is made inhouse, and without access to local meat and produce, maintaining our standards and our ability to vary what is offered to our customers would be impossible.”

Any day is a great day to get out and experience the great local food North Dundas has to offer!

Max Tufts and Chad Wolfe in the DCP show The Waffle King Murder by Mat Kelly

We are one team – caring for you! Our 2022 Report to the Community

Welcome to a joint update from Winchester District Memorial Hospital, the WDMH Auxiliary, Dundas Manor LongTerm Care Home and the WDMH Foundation. We are pleased to share highlights from the past year and to take this opportunity to thank our local communities for your incredible support. We also want to thank our health care teams for your commitment to keeping our patients, residents, community, and each other safe.

We are one team

We’ve got this. It’s something we’ve been saying a lot at Winchester District Memorial Hospital (WDMH) and we mean it. For more than two years, Team WDMH has done us proud – and we are so grateful for their commitment and compassionate care. We also want to thank our amazing local communities who have been behind them every step of the way.

The pandemic has presented many challenges both at WDMH and in our communities. But our team has been innovative and remained vigilant against the spread of the virus. And we have much more to celebrate.

First and foremost, WDMH was awarded Accreditation with Exemplary Standing in January, exceeding national standards for patient safety and quality of patient care. An internal medicine clinic and a new service to provide special intravenous lines for chemotherapy patients were launched. Extensive planning for Epic, our new digital health record system is underway. And did we mention that 795 babies were born at WDMH last year? We also welcomed new staff, physicians, and midwives and we are actively recruiting for more health care professionals to join our team. We embraced students throughout the hospital and are participating in several research projects. We are here for you – from childbirth to seniors’ care. And we are committed to compassionate excellence. Thanks for your support!

Amazing volunteers

Gratitude is all about thanks and appreciation – and we couldn’t be more grateful for the community volunteers who support health care close to home.

WDMH Auxiliary members have stayed home to stay safe this past year, and we miss them. But their impact is still being felt. In fact, this amazing team recently donated more than $75,000 to cover the cost a specialized ultrasound disinfection system. WDMH can now offer more procedures for women in our community.

We are also grateful to the community volunteers who sit on the Patient and Family Engagement Committee, various hospital committees, and the WDMH Boards of Directors. Special thanks to James Pitruniak who has completed his term as Board Chair and to our new Board Chair Bruce Millar.

To learn more about WDMH, visit www.wdmh.on.ca. Don’t forget to sign up for our monthly e-newsletter.

Inspiring happiness and joy

Dundas Manor’s commitment to happiness and joy for its residents has never wavered – despite the challenges of the pandemic. We are proud of the care that we provide and want to thank our team, as well as our wonderful residents and families for the never-ending support.

We are also proud of the results we’ve achieved. Our annual survey showed a 96% satisfaction rate from residents and families. Resident safety remains our top priority. We continue to monitor how we are doing through our Quality Improvement Plan, ongoing successful Ministry inspections, and our meetings with families. Throughout the pandemic, we have focused on strict protocols and we’re proud of our 100% vaccination rate.

Supporting our work are our wonderful volunteers, including the Board of Directors. This year, we welcomed our new Board Chair Lisa Little. Our sincere thanks to Bill Smirle for his Board leadership since 2012 – truly our #1 supporter!

To learn more about Dundas Manor, visit www.dundasmanor.ca

We are ready!

A giant sign will soon appear near Dundas Manor officially announcing the future site of our new home. We are so excited! While the pandemic has slowed down some of our planning, it hasn’t dampened our enthusiasm. In fact, we’ve improved the design based on what we’ve learned, particularly related to infection control.

The new Dundas Manor will include larger resident rooms, accessible spaces, and dining and gathering areas that bring people together. Every resident will have more privacy and their own window and there will be air conditioning throughout the building. Plus, we will welcome 30 more residents.

Construction is expected to begin next year.

Thank you to our donors

It’s great to meet you

Every day, the WDMH Foundation team has the pleasure of speaking with donors who are grateful for the care they have received at WDMH. It’s the best part of the job. Our donors’ gifts are used wisely, including supporting cancer care services, purchasing medical equipment, and educating staff –making an incredible impact throughout the hospital. This past year, because of our donors, we were able to purchase 106 new pieces of equipment. Everything from a $3,200 training mannequin for ongoing staff education to state-of-the-art colon and gastroscopes for the operating room, valued at $363,630. The total cost of the 106 pieces: $1,132,927!

The WDMH Foundation Team is busy planning as well. We are honoured to be working with staff, residents, and families as they plan for the brand-new Dundas Manor. While we can’t share exactly what is going on behind the scenes, please stay tuned for some exciting announcements in a few months.

Finally, we want to thank the community volunteers who support our work, including the WDMH Foundation Board of Directors for their commitment of time and expertise. A special shout-out to Peter Krajcovic who has completed his term as Chair. Thank you to our new Board Chair Chris Chevalier.

We can’t thank our donors enough for everything you do to support health care close to home. It is a privilege to connect with you every day!

To learn more about WDMH Foundation, visit www.wdmhfoundation.ca. To request a copy of our annual report and/or financial statements, please email foundation@wdmh.on.ca.

St. Paul's Community Garden receives $500 donation

Fairies in the Park donation to Girls Inc.

by Stephanie Seaver

John Court, a member of the Highlands Masonic Lodge, made a decision to provide a generous $500 donation to the St. Paul's Community Garden in Winchester.

After providing 62 years of service, John says he was happy to make sure the

money went to a good cause. Several times a year, the Highlands Lodge in Maxville chooses a community organization or service to donate to. This time, the St. Paul's Community Garden was lucky enough to be chosen.

Volunteers from the community garden along,

with Jane Schoones from the Community Food Share program, happily accepted the cheque on Wednesday, July 6. Jane remarked that the food share program relies on fresh food from the garden and this donation is very much appreciated.

Meet Me on Main Street - Morewood

by Stephanie Seaver

On Wednesday, July 6, the community of Morewood was pleased to close down Moffatt Street and welcome vendors to showcase their goods.

"The Country Lads" graced the stage to entertain everyone with some great music. Children enjoyed jumping on an inflatable bouncy castle and there was no shortage of yummy treats to try.

Chef Eddie at the Morewood Lucky Mart was busy preparing his famous sushi platters for many people stopping in on their way down the street.

A rededication ceremony also took place at the restored cenotaph in town. Volunteers worked with Veterans Affairs to make this happen on the 101st anniversary of the cenotaph installation.

Morewood resident,

Jim Casselman, said he can't wait until next week's Meet Me on Main Street in Marionville. I'm going to do them all!"

Send in your letters, stories, events to editor@ ngtimes.ca

WORK

Girls Incorporated of Upper Canada was pleased to accept a generous donation from the Fairies in the Park event held June 18 at St. Lawrence Park.

Celebrating 10 years since its conception by daughter Evi of the organizer Stephanie Forgues, Fairies in the Park is an opportunity for kids to enjoy stories, yoga, games, crafts, music, treats, arts, and workshops all while costumed as a mythical creature (or superhero) of their choice, be it a fairy, unicorn, dragon or mermaid.

Girls Inc. of Upper Canada staff were on hand at the event to host an interactive STEM workshop complete with slime and exploding paint bombs which were a hit with the kids attending and an opportunity for children and parents to engage hands-on learning.

Girls Incorporated of Upper Canada is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring all girls to be strong, smart and bold. Through programs that promote education, leadership, sports, health and self-esteem, Girls Inc. has empowered millions of girls internationally to be the best that they can be; to say, "I Can."

We’ve Got This!

Jane Adams, WDMH

We’ve got this! It was a recurring theme throughout the reports presented at the Winchester District Memorial Hospital (WDMH) Annual General Meeting held on June 28.

“While there are many challenges, the constant is our team and how they have been innovative and remained vigilant,” noted outgoing Board Chair James Pitruniak. He also stressed that the team goes beyond staff, physicians, and midwives. “Wrapped around WDMH are our colleagues at the WDMH Auxiliary, the Patient and Family Engagement Committee, Dundas Manor Long-Term Care Home, the Community Care and Dillabough buildings, as well as the donors and staff at the WDMH Foundation.”

CEO Cholly Boland also applauded the communities we serve. “We also want to thank our local communities for your incredible support. You have been behind Team WDMH through-

out the pandemic. We are humbled and grateful for the many acts of kindness.”

At the AGM, accomplishments over the past year were highlighted. First and foremost, WDMH was awarded Accreditation with Exemplary Standing in January, exceeding national standards Quality and safety initiatives remain a top priority and WDMH welcomed 795 babies – a record number. A joint Report to the Community - highlighting WDMH, the WDMH Auxiliary, Dundas Manor and the WDMH Foundationprovides more details. Read it here.

At the AGM, James Pitruniak was thanked for his leadership as he be-

comes Past Chair. Bruce Millar now takes the helm as Chair. The Board also welcomed three new members: Brenda Toonders, Bill Woods, and Tyson Roffey. Appreciation was extended to Holly Brown, John Trickett, and Mike Villeneuve who have completed their terms. Meet the WDMH Board of Directors at www.wdmh. on.ca/meetourboard.

The AGM ended with a motion put forward by Mike Villeneuve and seconded by Bill Smirle to sincerely thank everyone who works at WDMH for their commitment and hard work throughout another challenging year. It was passed unanimously.

L-R: John Court, Leslie Levere, Leslie Scharfe, Jane Schoones, Tom Clapps

Pollinator health

– a key pillar in maintaining a robust food system and healthy environment

by Jenn Doelman, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

With summer starting up, we all look forward to the bounty of fresh foods coming in season over the next few months.

Juicy strawberries, summer salads, and fresh green beans are just a few of the delicious foods that we have access to thanks to a variety of pollinators in our Ontario ecosystem. Pollinators play a behindthe-scenes role, but this doesn’t discount their significance. In fact, pollinators are responsible for one out of every three bites of food and add $217 billion to the global economy.

Protecting pollinator health is an important responsibility that we all share. Pollinators support healthy ecosystems which in turn, clean the air and water, stabilize soils, protect from severe weather, and support other wildlife. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) wants to share a reminder of the need for a healthy ecosystem to maintain a strong and re-

silient food system. This starts with supporting and protecting nature’s behind-the-scenes workers – the pollinators.

When we think of pollinators, honeybees are the first thing that come to mind, but this role can also be played by butterflies, wasps, moths, bats, birds, and other small mammals. Canada has close to 700 different types of native pollinators that support the growth of 75-95% of all flowering plants on earth. This diversity of pollinators and plants is ultimately what builds resilience in our food system. When one species is impacted by a drought, frost or other environmental conditions, another species is tolerant and can fill the gap.

Unfortunately, pollinators, and especially bees, are susceptible to external factors such as weather, disease/pests, habitat loss, and chemical exposure. Not just one thing is to blame and it’s a complex system to support.

As a beekeeper, I appreciate the greater

Support aging adults during 65-hour online giving event

As the world moves into a new chapter of the pandemic, aging adults continue to be in need.

As they experience isolation and loneliness daily, services supporting older adults remain critical to a healthy aging process. Carefor Eastern Counties remains committed to helping aging adults stay connected and engaged with their peers and community through its programs and services.

The Give65 Event, hosted by Home Instead Charities, provides us with an opportunity to rally our community to support older adults served by our programs. From July 12 to 15, Carefor Eastern Counties is participating in the fifth-annual event, a 65-hour online giving event exclusively for charitable organizations serving aging adults. This year, we’re raising funds for the Carefor Eastern

connection I have to the environment around me and the contribution my hives can make to the surrounding ecosystem. As a farmer, this hobby has helped me acknowledge the importance of stewardship practices and the benefits of my hives for the farm. While it is a shared responsibility, farmers do have a large role to play in supporting pollinator populations. Enhancing pollinatorfriendly habitats on or around the farm is a great place to start. We like to take advantage of the buffer strips between fields to plant pollinator mixes, restoring natural habitats for existing pollinators with important food and nesting sites. As an added benefit, planting pollinator mixes can control invasive weed populations along buffer strips and into fields.

Making an effort to incorporate integrated pest management in farming practices is another great way to support your surrounding ecosystem. Use pest control products responsibly by minimizing use where possible and follow product labels to apply as directed. Being conscious of hive locations or pollinator habitats nearby can also help mitigate damage to pollinator populations.

No Guff –Swearing Eases Pain

hours, instead applications can be done in early mornings or after dark. Having a diverse crop rotation, scouting often, and working with an agronomist to understand best management practices can all be highly impactful strategies. Pesticides are a very important tool for farmers, but they are definitely not the only tool.

Ultimately, being champions and advocating for pollinator health is important to protect populations. Even in urban centres, encouraging others to seek ways to support local pollinator habitats and food sources can have a positive outcome. Planting native wildflowers in urban gardens and increasing plant diversity in backyards can both help. With greater awareness of how we can all contribute to the solution; pollinator populations can thrive.

Pollinators are the foundation of local ecology and a keystone point in our ecosystem. A crucial partnership exists between pollinators and flowering plants to maintain a robust food system and a healthier environment.

A taboo forbids a practice that is deemed unacceptable. Swearing, especially in polite company, is an example. But here’s good news for the foul-mouthed. Swearing can have surprising benefits – including a remarkable effect in reducing pain!

Dr. Emma Byrne knows a lot about letting the filth fly. She published “Swearing is Good for You”, a book presenting research that may change the way you behave when you next stub your toe.

For the well-mannered, silent fortitude is the response when something hurts. Studies show, however, swearing like a sailor can ease the pain.

One study by psychologist Richard Stephens compared the pain tolerance of people holding their hands in ice-cold water. As compared to yelling a neutral word, they endured the freezing temperature for longer and perceived less pain when they let the cuss words rip.

There’s also evidence swearing can increase productivity in the workplace by building stronger teams.

“From the factory floor to the operating room,” Byrne writes, “scientists have shown that teams who share a vulgar lexicon tend to work more effectively together, feel closer, and be more productive than those who don’t.”

Swearing is more about emotions than the use of language. This helps explain why even very young children love to repeat “bad words”, even before they can put sentences together.

Toddlers enjoy the potty-mouthed taboo of bathroom humour because they get an emotional rise, not because they want to wax eloquent about the association between “poop” and “your face”.

Women get the short end of the straw when dishing out profanities. Byrne cautions women who may wish to try their chances with a flourish of foul-mouthed obscenities. “If it backfires, it’s not just a judgment about a poor choice of tone, it’s still seen as being a reflection on your character in a way that it isn’t for male speakers,” she says.

Other researchers have studied the connection between swearing and honesty. In fact, there are many studies demonstrating that people who swear tell fewer lies and are less deceptive.

Counties Meal Delivery Program, providing nutritious meals to over 500 seniors across the region. Gifts can be made here: www.give65. ca/carefor.

The generosity of the community helps to power the mission of Carefor Eastern Counties. To continue serving aging adults, we are asking for support during the Give65 Event. Home Instead Charities is offering matching funds, with each organization participating in the Give65 Event eligible to receive up to $5,000 in matching dollars, while funds are available.

“Give65 allows us to highlight the needs of older adults, help aging adults in our community, and raise critical dollars for the programs and services we offer to our clients,” says Jennie Stephenson, Carefor Communications & Fundraising Specialist.

The 65-hour Give65

When possible, we try to avoid applying insecticides during foraging

One study concluded that “people regard profanity more as a tool for the expression of their genuine emotions rather than being antisocial and harmful.”

Another study found that people who use more profanity were more honest in posts on Facebook about their personal status.

Phone:613 329 0209

Email: melissa@ndtimes.ca www.ngtimes.ca

Event begins at 9 am EST on Tuesday, July 12 and concludes at 2 am EST on July 15.

“Every individual deserves to age with independence and dignity. Through services offered by Carefor Eastern Counties, aging adults are supported and celebrated in their aging journey. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with Carefor Eastern Counties for the fifth-annual Give65

Event. The charitable sector serves a critical role in supporting aging adults in need, and we thank all of those who financially support this important work,” says Lenli Corbett, executive director of Home Instead Charities.

To learn more about Give65, visit www.Give65. ca. For more information about Carefor Eastern Counties, visit www.Carefor.ca or call 613-932-3451 ext. 4247.

Research has shown that people who swear with flair are deemed to be more persuasive in delivering arguments. Interestingly, it is more effective to swear in your mother tongue. This is presumably because profanity is often socially constructed. It’s best not to swear in a foreign language unless you know the culture inside out.

Language fluency does seem to have an important role in one’s ability to produce variation in profanity.

Dr. Timothy Jay, a psychology professor, conducted an experiment in which people were asked to generate a list of as many words beginning with a certain letter of the alphabet as possible in one minute. Afterwards, the same people were given a minute to list as many swear words as possible. Those who did better in thinking of words in general were also better able to list obscenities.

“People who are good at producing language are good at producing swear words,” Jay explains. “It’s not because they don’t have language — it’s because they have a whole toolbox full of words.”

Here’s something simple to try. The next time the lid on a jar of pickles presents too great a challenge, give that lid a twist and some foul language too. Studies have shown people can perform stronger physical feats when they swear out loud.

Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly enewsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us on Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones

MELISSA OTTENHOF Marketing Consultant

Classifieds Classifieds

FOR SALE

Old horse machinery for lawn ornament or for use. No 1 horse hay. Call Jim 613-258-3561

Travel trailer Jaco, 5th wheel, fully loaded, 28ft long, perfect condition. Must sell. Call Jim 613258-35612

Brand New Wedding

Dresses, never been worn, Tags Still On, LULUS (XL) ordered online. $300 each (phone number: 613-203-2724

No. 6/4 wire cabtire 18 meters; No, 6/4 wire liquidtight 15 meters; $175.00 each or both for $300.00. Bill 613-8501584

Two brand new wedding dresses, tags still attached, bought online LULUS (XL) $300 each

1992 Ford Econoline E150 Palm Spring's edition. B.C. vehicle, no rust, 396000 kms. 5.7 litre engine, tested and certi ed $2500. Phone: 613-7910204

Hearing aid with charger, hardly used. Call 613-5678533

Floating dock on the Rideau. 60' (3 sections and walkout) Best o er 613-258-8000

Firewood for sale $110 a cord delivered, min 2 cord for delivery. Call Jon 613-227-3650

SERVICES

RETIRED CARPENTER

Renovations, kitchens, bathrooms, additions, decks, home repair. Call George at 613 462 7637

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Call Bill 613 774 2922

Hedge Trimming

Small or Tall

Call Rob 613-795-1845'

Hay and straw for sale 4x4 round bales, stored inside. Call Jon 613-2273650

Cedar posts and rails for sale, various sizes available. Call Jon 613-2273650

WANTED

Looking to rent farmland for cash crops. Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204

HELP WANTED

Occasional muscle required part time for landscaping and waterfront maintenance on Boyd Landing , Merrickville. Heavy work. Pays $100 for five-hour day. Must have transportation. Phone 613 2847780.

CROSSWORD

GENERAL LABOURER NEEDED FOR CONSTRUCTION COMPANY TO START IMMEDIATELY. $18-$22/HR DEPENDING ON EXPERIENCE HARVEY (613)227-8850ETHEL (613)227-1945

W ANT3D

The Eric Gutknecht Memorial Bursary Charity is seeking 250ml jars (new or used) for 2022 jam/jelly sales.

Drop off at 529 George St. E or call Billy at 613-796-0941SALES

MILTONS ESTATES LAW

Wills - Probate - Estates Estate Litigation

As heard on CFRA Experts on Call www.ontario-probate.ca

The Wealth Plan

By Cyndy Batchelor

Financial Advisor, O’Farrell Wealth & Estate Planning | Assante Capital Management Ltd.

I tend to receive numerous queries for advice and tips from people who need help with budgeting, help to understand certain products, or from people who are looking for general best practices when considering their financial day to day activities. I enjoy sharing knowledge that helps individuals and families feel more confident regarding their day-to-day finances.

An integral part of my job as a Financial Advisor is the preparing of wealth plans. A Wealth Plan integrates all aspects of a client’s life and accounts for their dreams and goals. A Wealth Plan is when I take all your information, which includes your assets (house, investments & savings, pensions etc.), liabilities (mortgage, loans, credit cards), income, and expenses and project them out to the future. This allows you to see where you stand financially today and foresee where you will be at any point in time in future years. It is impossible to predict today that you will still be in the same job until you retire, what extra expenses you might have had along the way if you get sick and cannot work, or if you will win the lottery or get an inheritance. As life is continually changing, we will update your plan frequently to ensure it is as accurate as possible.

As a Financial Advisor, I use reasonable expectations and returns and factor in risks. We prepare recommendations to mitigate risks and to help protect your assets. We use Disability and Critical Illness insurance to mitigate against illness and injury if you do not have a Short-Term or Long-Term Disability plan through your employer. We use Life Insurance to protect against an early death, cover any debt you may have, and to create an estate for your loved ones. We use savings vehicles to plan for large purchases like cars, home renovations, and to set up an emergency fund. RRSPs and TFSAs are used for retirement and can help you save for a home purchase. If you are already retired, you may have a RRIF – which you are using to fund your retirement. A comprehensive Wealth Plan can forecast your financial future.

The first quarter of 2022 has been a tumultuous one for investors. Our in-house Wealth Team provides a monthly market commentary. We invite you to contact us to sign up for this newsletter. After working for over twenty-five years in this business, the best advice I will give about investments is that it is not about timing the market, it is time in the market. Stay invested and stay safe.

We welcome questions so please reach out! See our ad in this week’s North Dundas Times and follow us on Facebook @OFarrellWealth.

Cyndy Batchelor is a Financial Advisor with Assante Capital Management Ltd. The opinions expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of Assante Capital Management Ltd. Please contact her at 613.258.1997 or visit ofarrellwealth. com to discuss your circumstances prior to acting on the information above. Assante Capital Management Ltd. is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada. Insurance products and services are provided through Assante Estate and Insurance Services Inc.

Bunch of People Sing it!

submitted by Amanda Burger

A Bunch of People are at it again! This time they are inviting everyone to Sing it! No need to have experience or to sing well. All that matters is that you like to sing, want to help raise money for charity and have a good time!

This will be ABOP's 2nd "Sing it!" Event which will be held Saturday, July 23, 2022, in Chesterville. In 2019, during their inaugural "Sing it!" Event, the participants learned and performed "We Will Rock You" and ‘We Are the Champions" by Queen, in four (4) part harmony. So, what will the song be this year?

"We had a pretty long discussion on what the song would be and our Sing it! team decided on "Because the Night" by Patti Smith," Amanda said enthusiastically. "We couldn't do this without our team of Margaret Whisselle, Kayla Droppo and Elizabeth Barton. I am just the organizer," Amanda said, "they are the ones who will be teaching each section their part and putting it all together for the video recording".

The video is filmed at the end of the day, when we have put all the sections together and the whole group is performing the song. It is then released on social media so participants can share it with their friends and families.

How will this raise funds?

Everyone who wishes to sing are invited to attend starting at 9:30 am on Saturday, July 23, 2022 at Christ Church United in Chesterville (5 Casselman St.). We ask for a $10 donation to participate, but we will not turn anyone away for lack of money," Amanda clarified.

Each year, profits from ABOP are donated to House of Lazarus (HOL) at Christmas Time.

This is how the day will unfold: July 23, 2022.

Sing It! Cost: $10 donation

9:30-10:00 am - Registration

10:00-12:00 pm -Divide into sections and start singing.

12:00-1:00 pm - Lunch (You can buy your lunch at one of the many options in town, but feel free to brown bag it too.)

1:00-2:00 pm - All Sections come together and Sing it!

2:00-3:00 pm - Video Record it for fun!

For more information email: abunchofpeopleartsandevents@gmail.com or visit: https://www.abunchofpeople. ca/sing-it

A Bunch of People Arts and Events is a not-for-profit organization comprised of various enthusiastic people, who create random artistic and other events to raise money for charity in S, D & G. What is better than having a good time? Knowing the profits from what you enjoyed are going to help the community!

Media Contact:, (613) 346-5064: abunchofpeopleartsandevents@gmail.com https://abunchofpeopleartsandevents.business.site/

South Nation Conservation provides jobs to local students

South Nation Conservation (SNC) welcomed eight students and recent graduates to its team this summer, thanks to support from the Federal and Provincial Governments.

SNC is a regional leader in summer student employment; every year, the Conservation Authority hires local students from across its 4,441 km2 jurisdiction in Eastern Ontario.

“We’re proud to secure investments that contribute to our local economy and give talented students an opportunity to work in their field of study,” says SNC General Manager Angela Coleman. "We are grateful for the hard work and enthusiasm that our local youth bring to support our conservation authority work every summer.”

From working in the forest, or within a Conservation Area, to supporting natural hazard programs or delivering environmental outreach programs including Youth Fish Camps, students become familiar with the inner-workings of a non-profit organization while getting exposed to a variety of career opportunities and experiences.

“I’m very excited to be working for South Nation Conservation this summer,” said Loic-Arnaud Plouffe, a Property and Approvals Student from Hawkesbury, enrolled in the Forestry Program at Collège Boréal in Sudbury. “I’m pleased to be part of an organization that protects, supports and enhances our environment for the benefit of all residents.”

New to the team this year are Allison Talsma, Sarah Derikx, Loic-Arnaud Plouffe and Arielle Noonan. Returning are Alicia Howse, Mary-Louise Sturman, Gianmarco Maggiore, and Hope Boyle. Gianmarco Maggiore, who began working with SNC as a student in 2021, has gone on to secure a full-time position with the Authority as a Water Resources Analyst. Collectively they are from Ottawa, Hawkesbury, Hamilton, and Kemptville.

“We look forward to hiring young and enthusiastic students every summer,” says Coleman. “They are our future generation of leaders and will hopefully go on to become good environmental stewards.”

Summer Students Standing at a distance outside of the South Nation Conservation Office in Finch, Ontario

New webpage dedicated to local Cenotaph and Memorial monuments

to easily access information such as: a location map, a brief description and links for full inscription details for the eight local monuments: Chesterville Cenotaph, Nation Valley Cenotaph, Inkerman Cenotaph, Morewood Cenotaph, Battle of Hill 70, Ormond Cenotaph, Van Camp Cenotaph and the Winchester Memorial.

To honour the 101st Anniversary of the Morewood Cenotaph, there was a public celebration held during the Meet Me on Main in Morewood on July 6, 2022.

Metcalfe Community Association

fighting to save RBC

Now Live! Webpage

dedicated to our local Cenotaph and Memorial monuments throughout North Dundas. The Township of North Dundas is dedicated to honouring and respecting those who paid the ultimate price, so we can all enjoy our

freedoms.

As such, the Township has created a new webpage that is dedicated to our local Cenotaph and Memorial monuments throughout North Dundas.

This new webpage allows residents and visitors

A special thank you to the Morewood Cenotaph Committee for all the hard work they have put in over the years to restore and improve this noteworthy landmark for generations to enjoy. As well, thank you to all those who donated to support the efforts to refresh the site.

Everyone is encouraged to download the map and take a moment to visit the monuments to show your respects to our fallen soldiers. https://www.northdundas. com/

War of 1812-14

Re-enactment Weekend

The Friends of Crysler’s Farm Battlefield, in coordination with the St. Lawrence Parks Commission and Upper Canada Village, will be presenting their War of 1812-14 Re-enactment Weekend on July 16 and 17. It will take place near the battle memorial, adjacent to Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg, Ontario.

Come out and witness firsthand daily “The Battle That Saved Canada” starting at 1 pm with the Children’s Muster, followed by the 100th Regiment Band and the re-enactment at 2 pm. Explore the wares of period merchants and artisans, and displays by local historical and special interest groups. Wander through a military encampment and learn about the Regency era way of life. Guided tours include the Battlefield Monument overlooking the St. Lawrence. $75 will give you (a group of 5 “cannon crew”) the opportunity to fire a period cannon. Four firings daily. Gates are open 9:30 am to 4 pm daily. Admission is $7 per person or $30 per family (two adults and two children under 18). Children under 7 years get in free. Each admission will give you $5 off admission at Upper Canada Village (18 years and up). For more information, check out our website (cryslersfarm.com) or Facebook page.

by Brandon Mayer

The town of Metcalfe, about 15 minutes north of Winchester, is at risk of losing its RBC branch later this year. However, residents of the small town are not about to give up without a fight. Locals were shocked when notices of the upcoming closure were posted online, and on the door of the Metcalfe branch, informing customers that they would soon have to travel to Findlay Creek, Winchester, or Embrun for their banking.

Metcalfe Community Association President Marc Sauve told the Times that the RBC branch in Metcalfe has been around for decades – since about the 1960s. “A lot of the seniors don’t do online banking,” said Marc. “A lot of them don’t even have computers.” Marc explained that there is a lot of traffic that goes through the Metcalfe RBC, comprising both local residents and residents from neighboring towns. Many seniors from the local retirement community use the bank to get coins to do their laundry. There are people who have used the services of the Metcalfe branch for close to 60 years, having opened their first account there. “It’s pretty much a hub of the village,” said Marc. Metcalfe is also growing, so many residents, and the Community Association, believe that closing the branch is a bad move.

Marc told the Times that a reporter from CTV News had come out to the branch to cover the story, and was amazed at the high amount of traffic in and out of the Metcalfe branch.

Unfortunate as it may be, it is becoming increasingly common for small town banks to close, as banks

attempt to decrease costs by amalgamating smaller branches into nearby larger branches. An example occurred in 2013 when Scotiabank made the decision to close its branches in Avonmore, St. Isidore, and Maxville all at the same time, while opening a new large branch in Casselman. The move was met with fierce resistance from locals in each town, but Avonmore and St. Isidore still lost their branches. Maxville residents were successful in keeping their branch open.

More recently, a local town lost its fight with Scotiabank, and yet another small town bank – in South Mountain – bit the dust. Small town banks that close down invariably provide local automated services via ATM and ABM machines.

The old South Mountain location still has a functioning ABM in the front of the building (now used by House of Lazarus), which provides withdrawals in

multiples of $20, as well as envelope free deposits and a few other services. Avonmore was not so lucky, receiving only a cash ATM within a neighboring store. Regardless of the level of automation provided, there will always be some services that are only available at a staffed branch. This is especially true for people who do not have access to online banking services, who need to visit a branch to do things such as pay their bills.

Signs have been erected around the town to draw attention to the issue, and a rally was held on July 11 at Victoria Park, across from the branch, to protest the proposed closure. A petition of over 700 signatures was delivered to the branch manager on that day. The Metcalfe Community Association continues to fight to save the Metcalfe RBC branch, but only time will tell if the small town gets to keep its beloved little bank.

Township of North Dundas website

A sign encouraging Metcalfe locals to help in the fight to save their RBC branch