When Emilie Brunet came to Winchester with her family for work 7 years ago, they ultimately decided to stay put and raise a family.
“There's something very unsettling about having kids in a place where you don't come from,” said Emilie. “You hope that the community you chose
can bring support and safety to your whole family. This feeling is even stronger when you have a kid with significant disabilities. I've always been ready to fight for inclusion and I will bulldoze anything in my war. But the truth is that most of the time, I’ve been observing how inclusion finds us.”
Emilie praises everything in Winchester, from the kind-
ness of neighbourhood kids, to the welcoming attitudes of local business owners, to the inclusive nature of local recreational amenities and programs.
“This community takes care of their own, regardless of their abilities,” Emilie adds.
The icing on the cake for the young family has been a recent bond formed between Emilie’s son, Oli, and Albert
Street resident, Daniel Levere. Daniel is well known around Winchester due to his love of going out for walks around town. Like Oli, Daniel has disabilities, and Emilie notices and admires how he is treated in the community.
“I've now had the chance to witness how this community treats him, and I must say that I feel reassured for what the future holds for my son,” said Emilie. “I can see that people treat this gentleman with respect and genuinely enjoy his presence. The local businesses take care of him, people shake his hand, and the trucks honk when he signs to them.” She notes that Oli has now picked up this signing behaviour, showing how special a bond the two have.
“This connection reflects the core value of unconditional belief in one another that Community Living Dundas County upholds,” said the organization in an email. “At CLDC, we believe in inclusion by valuing and embracing every person, regardless of their abilities. This story shows how Daniel and Oli’s relationship developed based on [the] inclusive community we strive to create, where trust and care allow everyone to thrive.
“Emilie’s experience with Daniel reminds us how powerful it is when people believe in each other without prejudice. It’s through these connections that we break down barriers and lift each other up, making our community stronger.”
Emilie and her family could not be happier with their choice to live here. “Let's keep being kind and inclusive,” she adds. “Let's lead with love, because light finds light.”
Oli and Daniel share a warm greeting on a neighbourhood walk
by Jen Pretty
We
and other volunteers. Joe is also responsible for building the beautiful arbour in one of our memorial gardens, and has always been available
when we needed to move rocks or cut tree branches.
Over the years, Dundas County Hospice has become more reliant on grants and community donations to sustain and grow our programs and this one is huge. Donations such as these ensure the Hospice will continue to thrive in uncertain fiscal times. All money donated to Dundas County Hospice goes toward our free services for palliative and grief and bereavement clients as well as our Equipment Loan program that is available free of charge to any resident of North or South Dundas who is in need of short-term medical equipment. We are so blessed to live in the community we serve where the generosity always comes through. A huge thank you to the Spruit family!
Ron Misener and Janet Cooper have big hearts – and now they have big smiles. They both bought Raise the Roof Lottery tickets because they wanted to support the new Dundas Manor. And they both won! Ron Misener takes home the 2024 Jeep Wrangler and $13,000 in grocery gift cards. He lives in the area and his Mom lived at Dundas
Manor years ago. “I remember being at Louis’ Restaurant in Chesterville back in the 70s talking about the need for the first Dundas Manor. At that time, there was only a longterm care unit at the hospital.” Ron adds that he is aware of the need for the new long-term care home in our region: “We need the new home more than ever as the needs
are greater now and Winchester is expanding. I simply can’t believe I won!”
Janet Cooper takes home the 50/50 winnings, totaling $12,000. She lives in Embrun and likes to support her community. She says she was very excited when she got the winning call. “I support the WDMH Foundation and other local charities each year. I always have fun, but this is definitely the most fun!” she says.
The winning tickets were 99001120024 and 99000347133.
“We are so grateful to everyone who supported the lottery – and to everyone who is helping to make the Dundas Manor Dream come true!” notes WDMH Foundation Managing Director Kristen Casselman. “Everyone has a reason to give to Dundas Manor and we are grateful to each of you!” Congratulations Ron and Janet!
Knights of Columbus annual bottle drive is fast approaching
by Brandon Mayer
The local Knights of Columbus branch is running their annual Bottle Drive for Special Olympics on Saturday, November 16. The fundraising effort will take place in two locations at the same time – St. Mary’s Catholic School in Chesterville, and St. Daniel the Martyr Catholic Church in South Mountain. The bottle drives will run from 11am to 3pm at both locations. Typically, the event raises about
Three plays for the price of one!
It's a busy fall for the Players who are rehearsing three very different short plays which will all take the stage at the Old Town Hall in Winchester on Nov. 15, 16, 17, 22, 23 and 24.
Lauren Casselman, director of Home Child by Laura Teasdale, chose the play for its strong emotions and connection to local history. “I like the fact that it's written by a female Canadian playwright”, explained Casselman, “and that it tells the story of British Home Children, whose descendants are numerous in our area.” Home Child takes us to 1894 when Poppy is scooped up off the streets of London and sent across the Atlantic to live and work with a Canadian family. She finds her place in the family, growing close to the eldest son, Matthew, while struggling to keep the truth of her origins secret. “I'm amazed by the realism and maturity delivered by these two young actors”, added Casselman, “They are naturally talented and able to convey a wide range of emotions that will resonate with audiences.”
Second in line is How to Survive Being in a Shakespeare Play by Don Zolidis,
directed by MT Robinson. It's a humorous take on the tragedies of Shakespeare which usually end badly. This play is here to show how endings can be changed so that no-one dies.
“I love comedy, and this is a hilarious and fun introduction to Shakespeare,“ remarks Robinson, as she works with her cast of 13 who juggle numerous roles. “Giving young people an opportunity to develop their artistic creativity, and foster the next generation is absolutely essential in keeping local theatre vibrant and alive.”
Thirdly, audiences are in for a treat with Last Tango in Little Winchester by David Tristram, directed by Erik Hutten. Plenty of laughter is expected in this play about a fictitious drama group that has fallen on hard times. As a last ditch effort, they decide to take a risk and put on a somewhat risqué play. A former youth actor with Dundas County Players turned real actor, Hutten is enjoying his local directing debut. “This play is funny, I love it!”, quips Hutten. “Not only are my four adult actors super keen and talented, they have helped me add a sprinkling of local references for extra spice
to the script.” Hutten added that he is excited to take the show to the Eastern Ontario Drama Festival in Perth at the beginning of November.
Dundas County Players are pleased to announce that all money raised from the November 16 show will go to the fundraising efforts for the new Dundas Manor.
Performances will take place on November 15, 16, 17, 22, 23 and 24. Friday and Saturday shows (November 15, 16, 22 and 23) start at 7:30 p.m. There will be matinees at 2 p.m. on Sundays, November 17 and 23. The running time is approximately 2.5 hours, including a 20 minute intermission.
Tickets are $20 for adults ($10 for under 18) and are available through Eventbrite at dcplayers.ca, or by contacting the DCP Ticket Line at 613297-0097.
The Dundas County Players Theatre Society is a community volunteer organisation that promotes theatre arts in Dundas County. For the past 28 years, Dundas County Players has been providing quality entertainment including plays, children’s summer workshops, and cabarets.
$1,500, which goes toward supporting the Brockville chapter of the Special Olympics.
“The bottle drive is nothing special,” Mark van Delst told the Times. “Three or four guys hanging out in the church parking lot accepting any empties that people want to bring by to drop off. We’re always good for a chat.”
Mark explained that the Knights of Columbus as an organization is a significant supporter of the Special Olympics
in general, with individual local councils being encouraged to participate. “We’ve been doing the bottle drive for 10 years at least,” Mark added. “Our local chapter of the Special Olympics is out of Brockville. I know they run a soccer program. Since we are kind of far away, we don’t get directly involved with their activities so we focus on financial support.”
The other fundraiser that the Knights of Columbus is known for locally is the annual
Duck Race in South Mountain. All the money from that is given to local charities. “Beyond that, we do several parish activities and focus a lot of effort on parish physical and spiritual needs,” explained Mark. “Most of our guys are also involved with other community groups and activities.”
Come out to one of the two locations and support a great cause by bringing bottles on November 16. A nice friendly chat will be included for free!
Bike Nights will take a pause
by Brandon Mayer
“Are you going to Bike Night?” This has been such a familiar buzz around Winchester in the summer months, but it’s a buzz that will be put on hold in 2025.
Bike Nights have been an annual tradition in Winchester, featuring family friendly entertainment, vendors, and an astronomical number of motorcycles. Since these bikes were the main feature of the event, the weather needed to cooperate for the events to run. Rain or forecasted rain would often cancel Bike Nights, but when they happened, they resulted in countless smiles.
“After much discussion with our committee members and an opportunity to take stock of the work we have all put in and how much we have accomplished, it has also become obvious that we are all in need of a rest,” writes the Winchester Downtown Revitalization Committee in a social media post.
“With all that being said, moving forward your Winchester Bike Nights will be suspended for 2025. The door is not totally closed for thereafter, but we’ll evaluate things moving forward and see where we stand in early 2026.”
The social media post celebrates all the things that have made Bike Nights a success, including the hard work of volunteers and committee members, as well as the community pride in North Dundas that made the events special. Many locals will surely have their fingers crossed for 2026!
Ronald Misener and his partner Francine Tardif (at right) getting ready to drive away in their new car with WDMH Foundation Managing Director Kristen Casselman (left).
beginning. John’s son, Henry, took charge of building the fence in the Hospice backyard along with his brother Joe
Hallville Community Park finally breaks ground
On Tuesday, October 15, the Township of North Dundas held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Hallville Community Park. Mayor Tony Fraser was joined by Councillor Matthew Uhrig, Councillor Gary Annable, Councillor John Lennox, representing the Honourable MPP Nolan Quinn Minister of Colleges and Universities – Michael Lazaris, and Parliamentary Assistant to Ontario’s Minister of Infrastructure – Amarjot Sandhu to celebrate this huge step forward in such an important project for North Dundas.
In January of 2021, the Township was approved for funding under the “Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) – Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure funding stream.”
The program funds go towards helping communities reduce pollution and increase resilience to climate change, building dynamic and inclusive communities, and ensuring access to modern and reliable services that improve quality of life.
Through ICIP, the Government of Canada is contributing $1,091,477, the Government of Ontario is contributing $909,473 and the Township of North Dundas will contribute
$727, 742 for a total project funding of $2,728,692.
During the Regular Meeting of Council on September 5, 2024, Council awarded Tender No. RC- 2024-04 for construction of the Hallville Community Park to Cornwall Gravel Company Ltd. The tender is for Phases 1 and 2, which includes parking lots and pathways, an outdoor rink, playgrounds, pavilion, parking lot lights and underground electrical conduits for future pathway lighting. The project is tentatively scheduled to be complete on September 30, 2025.
“We are proud to partner with North Dundas and the government of Ontario to build the Hallville Community Park. Once complete, it will give the community a place to come together, play, and have fun for decades to come” said the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada.
“Our government is proud to support investments in local community and recreational infrastructure, fostering stronger and more engaging communities across Ontario,” said Amarjot Sandhu, Parliamentary Assistant to Ontario’s Minister of Infrastructure. “Once complete, the Hallville Community Park will bring residents of North Dundas
and surrounding communities closer together through fun and accessible outdoor activities. It will also provide residents with more opportunities to lead inclusive, healthy and active lifestyles for years to come.”
"This project exemplifies our government's commitment to enhancing community spaces and improving the quality of life for residents in North Dundas," said MPP Nolan Quinn. "By upgrading recreational areas, we are not only enhancing residents' quality of life but also fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion for all. I look forward to seeing the community enjoy Hallville Community Park and the positive impacts it will bring."
“We are incredibly thankful to the Provincial and Federal governments for their financial support in this project, without them North Dundas would not be able to move forward with this park, which once complete, will serve many members of our community. I thank PA Sandhu for attending this momentous occasion, along with MPP Quinn, and thank staff for their hard work throughout this process. Today, we celebrate the groundbreaking of what will be a beautiful community park here in Hallville,” said Mayor Tony Fraser.
Source suggests Township CAO is fired
by Brandon Mayer
A trusted source has informed the Times that Township CAO Angela Rutley’s employment has been terminated. Because the news was unofficial as of the time of writing, the source wished to remain anonymous. The source further suggested that the Township’s Director of Development Services, Calvin Pol, will be taking over as interim CAO. While the information could not be independently confirmed by deadline, the source explained that the news could be made public as early as October 28 or October 30, meaning that readers may already have access to additional information through official Township announcements by the time of publication.
If officially ratified, the CAO’s termination comes after accusations from multiple sources within the Township, as well as former employees, that the work environment at the Township has been toxic for some time. Accusations were also leveled shortly after the Council walkout that North Dundas has been run undemocratically by the wishes of Mayor Tony Fraser and CAO Rutley alone, rather than on the will of the five elected Council members as a whole.
In another twist, the same trusted source explained to the Times that there is a legal battle taking place with taxpayer money, which upper level Township staff, including Recreation and Culture Director, Meaghan Meerburg, do not want brought to public attention. The source asserted that the Township awarded a contract to a Mississauga based solar company to do work on the roof of the Winchester Arena. After the contract was awarded, and the owner had been paid out on multiple invoices in the $10,000-20,000 range, totaling approximately $260,000, he refused to do the work. The Times learned of the company owner’s name, but it is being withheld pending any legal outcomes. The source who spoke to the Times is disappointed that this issue has not been made public, since it involves taxpayer money.
October 15 Council meeting
Only a few days before the Council walkout that happened on October 11, Council met on Tuesday, October 15 for a “special Council meeting”. The purpose of the meeting – which was scheduled prior to the walkout – was to handle business such as public meetings for zoning bylaw amendment and other such requests.
A requested zoning change came from House of Lazarus, a well-known local charitable organization headquartered in Mountain. The request was for an expansion of the organization’s operations, requiring the conversation of a small parcel of farmland to allow operations such as a thrift store (which already operates adjacent to the subject property), and a food bank (the organization’s former South Mountain food bank suffered a fire in May of 2023).
Also part of the meeting was a request from CAO Angela Rutley to expand the Township’s employee benefits coverage to apply to services provided by social workers, psychotherapists, and clinical counsellors. The suggestion was well received and the motion was approved.
Recreation and Culture Director, Meaghan Meerburg discussed the commencement of construction for the Hallville Community Park, and also asked Council to authorize a funding request from the Ontario Trillium Fund for the project. Other grant money for recreational programs was discussed, and Council was enthusiastic about the possibility of receiving such money.
The next regularly scheduled Council meeting will take place on November 7.
Tid bit musings
by Elva Patterson Rutters, RSSW
Taking a chance. Depending on the circumstances, such a phrase may be adventuresome or foolhardy. Sometimes it is a calculated step or a spontaneous reaction more so than a premeditated action. How does one decide the risk or benefits?
Being hurt, physically or emotionally, makes most of us hesitant to repeat a behavior while others seem to bask in self-destruction or narcistic behavior. Some sports incur many repetitive injuries that are now diagnosed as a catalyst for permanent brain injuries. What you don't know can hurt you! The thrill of competition and success in winning cancels out the risk or justifies the risk for some folks. Aging usually sets the perimeter for ceasing the physical combats.
On a different note is the risk to love again after a death, divorce, or messy break up. We naturally, hopefully, employ more awareness, and more concrete boundaries while not erecting an impenetrable wall around our beings. Being vulnerable is being human! Learning from our mistakes is paramount to establishing the list of pros and cons before making decisions. Often life throws curve balls that make us stop and take heed of what just transpired. The adrenaline released by fear may create an addictive euphoria. Learn from the actions of others.
After weighing your options, be brave enough to take a risk that may open more doors of happiness, opportunities and experiences. "Healthy fear" is a safety net while "compulsive fear" is curtailing your chance of an enhanced life. You do the math to evaluate your risk in any situation. Everyone is different. Different stimuli and rationale create your world and can be emulated by others without the same rationale. You are you.
For what it’s worth
by David Shanahan
The First World War changed Canada, and most of the world, ending an era of Empires, creating, or enlarging a sense of national identity for peoples around the world. It killed anything from 11 million to 40 million people, including an estimated 13 million civilians. The wide range in estimates indicates how brutal a period it was between 1914 and 1918, with so many dead that no-one is sure of exact numbers. It was also possibly the most pointless conflict in human history, set off because of the rivalry between three cousins, all grandchildren of Queen Victoria, and the competition between the empires over which the three ruled.
Czar Nicholas II of Russia, Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany,
Letter to the Editor
Dear Mr. Shanahan,
and King George V of Great Britain allowed their countries and empires to go to war needlessly and two of three lost those empires, one lost his throne, and one, Nicholas, was murdered along with his wife and children in the anarchy and revolution which was a direct result of the war.
It has been said that WWI created a new sense of Canadian identity, based on involvement in battles such as Vimy Ridge and Passchendaele. In fact, Canadians had already been developing a sense of nationality since at least the Fenian invasions of the 1860's, Confederation, and the Boer War, when Canadians first served abroad in war. The effect of WWI on this developing nationality was something that more gradual. When the Imperial British Government in London declared war in
August, 1914, Canada was automatically included. The Canadian Parliament had no say in the matter.
The drive to enlist Canadian men in the army and navy emphasised the Empire as the main context in which the war was seen: Canadians were part of the greatest Empire the world had ever seen and should be proud to serve its King-Emperor. In reality, the majority of those who enlisted in Canada were new immigrants from Britain, and not Canadian-born. It took time for that to change, and a remarkable aspect of that change was the very high percentage of Indigenous people who served in France and other theatres of war on behalf of Canada. By the end of the war, Canada had reached a completely different status within the British Empire. Because of the role
played by Canadian soldiers and generals, as well as the part played in the war councils of the Empire by the Canadian Prime Minister, along with other Dominion leaders, there was a new-found confidence and assertiveness which had not been in evidence before 1914.
Between 1918 and 1939, constitutional developments within Canada and the Empire resulted in the rise of what became the Commonwealth, with a new emphasis on the importance, and equality, of member nations. When war was declared again by the British Government in 1939, Canada was not automatically included. The Canadian Parliament deliberately waited a week before making its own declaration of war on Germany, the first time this country declared war on its own initiative.
This issue of the Times
Response from David Shanahan
Hi Liz
First, I would like to apologize for the brash tone of my initial letter. It was unnecessary, and I appreciate the opportunity to respond again with a more measured approach. Thank you for your reply.
While I recognize your perspective that there are positive narratives associated with the Residential School system, I stand by my point: introducing such nuance may obscure the central issue, and it is not essential to the process of reconciliation.
Like you, I see significant progress being made toward truth and reconciliation, but there is still considerable resistance. I’m witness to conversations that display an aversion to the reasons behind Truth and Reconciliation Day. There is disdain over the renaming of sports teams to address cultural misappropriation, and certain claims that I won’t dignify here, which lead me to believe it is too early in the reconciliation process to highlight positive anecdotes about the Residential School system.
You mentioned that this issue is "not akin to Holocaust denial," and I agree. However, parallels can be drawn from other reconciliation efforts that support my position that the starting point for Canadians is acceptance. For example, the Truth and Reconciliation process following the Rwandan Genocide did not focus on the fact that some Hutus did not want to kill Tutsis, or that some Hutus helped Tutsis during that time. These facts did not justify or diminish the severity of the genocide. The Rwandan process required broad acknowledgment that what had been done to the Tutsis was fundamentally wrong.
Similarly, while acknowledging both sides may contribute to a more nuanced understanding, it is risky to elevate isolated positive anecdotes to a position that appears equal to the widespread suffering endured by so many others. As you rightly pointed out, many Canadians do not have the depth of knowledge or context that you bring to the discussion. Focusing on the potential benefits some claim to have experienced could lead to a dangerous minimization of the broader harm.
The fact that some children received an education does not negate the reality that many parents were coerced into sending their children to these institutions against their will. The primary objective of the Residential School system was to systematically erase Indigenous cultures. This is a harsh truth in Canada's history, and though it may be uncomfortable for Canadians to confront – especially given that these decisions were made by our forefathers – it is a small burden compared to the immense suffering experienced by those who lived through it.
Best regards, Liz Waterfall
P.S. Lynn Beyak’s name was spelt incorrectly in North Dundas Times version.
Thanks for your reply. We agree on a great deal: the entire reconciliation process has a long way to go, and I’m afraid there will always be those who continue to either deny the facts of history completely, or minimise the effects of colonialisation on Indigenous peoples in Canada. That is a sad fact with which we have to deal.
There are a few things I would like to emphasise, though. First of all, Residential schools were only a part of that colonisation experience; relatively few children actually attended them, most went to day schools on their reserves and never experienced the residential environment. Reconciliation has to include the entire history of Indigenous-Settler relations, particularly after the period when colonist law was applied to Indigenous communities. The Indian Act did not arrive fully formed, it was the result of a gradual development in that relationship. And the implications of its original form, arising through the so-called “civilisation policy” after 1830 and the increase in the spread of “treaties”, was not easily grasped by either side.
I think the sole focus on the residential schools takes away the context in which Indigenous-Settler relations can be understood. But, perhaps most important, in my opinion, is that ignoring the nuances, as we are calling them, means we are defining the terms of reconciliation in an incomplete way. What I mean is that by portraying only the negatives, it would be easy for those who deny the reality to claim that the entire thing has been exaggerated, if not wilfully misrepresented.
When the details emerge that there were positives in the relationship, that not everyone on the settler side was an evil racist, that many were committed to Indigenous peoples, people taking your approach will be condemned for misrepresenting the facts. From that, it is a short step to deny that everything we condemn about the history was untrue or exaggerated. It is a real problem. Already, the failure to find actual mass graves outside of official cemeteries has led to a reaction among many, saying “I told you it was all a lie!”, and nothing said about the truth in future will be believed.
Reconciliation demands truth on all sides, and truth demands that the real facts are presented. Indigenous peoples don’t need to present an incomplete story: the truth, the reality, is sufficient.
One last thing, and this may not be acceptable to some: it was not my ancestors who oppressed Indigenous peoples in Canada. I wasn’t here, and neither were my ancestors. We were busy being oppressed by the same Coloniser in Ireland. I don’t feel guilty for what happened in Canada before me; but I do feel deeply responsible to ensure that the truth of that history is known and respected, and that the grievances of the past are fully and legally redressed.
marks Remembrance Day 2024, 110 years after that first declaration in August, 1914. We focus on the local citizens who found themselves far from home and family during those four years of horror, especially those who never came back.
But we also have to remember the even greater number who survived the war, but not without severe mental and physical wounds, wounds which often never fully healed. We may now be more aware of the impact of Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), something unknown to those impacted by WW1 in theory, though certainly not in reality.
World War 1 affected the entire country, civilian and military, and all ages. It was perhaps the first war that involved all sectors of the nation, with local women knitting socks and scarves, children
gathering things to sell and send, the Red Cross and local communities putting on concerts and events to raise funds for the war effort. And there were the funerals: not necessarily, and not often, with an actual body to bury – they were under the mud of the trenches or in the vast war graves that spread over the French and Belgian countryside. But every town, every village, had its own Cenotaph with the names of the local boys and men who had died. And there was the poppy, the symbol of loss and remembrance, and the poetry and other memorials which, however maudlin at times, sought to put into words the deep and unfathomable change that had overtaken the world. But, here and now, we remember a few of the boys and men who were part of that awful event.
We Remember. We Honour.
Remembrance Day events in Winchester
by Kimberly Schmidtke
Field of Crosses Presentation November 8, 2024
The first year of this amazing initiative has seen students from North Dundas District High School researching the fallen soldiers, from the North Dundas area, whose names appear on the Township’s Cenotaphs. Each one of these heroic soldiers has been designated a cross fabricated by the students of NDDHS. The students have championed this project with a thirst for knowledge and the ultimate drive to have these soldiers eternally remembered. This event will be the first of its kind in our Township, with these crosses being first displayed at NDDHS to honour the commitment the students showed to this project. The presentation will take place on Friday, November 8 at 10am at NDDHS.
Cenotaph Visitations November 9, 2024
This pilgrimage is a meaningful way to visit the lesser-known Cenotaphs in our Township. These Cenotaphs hold the names of heroes from our community but are often not as visited as the Cenotaph at Winchester District Memorial Hospital. With each stop on this pilgrimage, we show our respect to the fallen soldiers whose names grace these Cenotaphs by holding a moment of Remembrance so that we strive to ensure they are never forgotten.
The pilgrimage will take place on Saturday November 9.
- 9:00am – Winchester Legion, 482 Main Street E, Winchester
- 10:00am – Inkerman Cenotaph, 11526 County Rd 3, Inkerman
- 10:30am – Van Camp Cenotaph, 11035 Levere Rd, Mountain
- 11:00am – Hill 70 Monument, Clark Rd, Mountain
The Winchester Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion (Br. 108) commemorated its Poppy Campaign Kick-Off on Friday, October 25. This event showcased the commitment to Remembrance that the Township of North Dundas continues to demonstrate. With thousands of Poppies crocheted, beautiful displays of Remembrance continue to be assembled across the entire Township to pay tribute to the many brave men and women who have, and still are, courageously serving Canada in its Armed Forces. This event also served as the kick-off to the raising of the much-needed funds which are donated back to the ever-needed Veterans Programs in our area.
Remembrance Day Parade and Ceremony
by Kimberly Schmidtke
Our Branch’s Remembrance Day Parade progresses through several of the town’s streets, which will be closed to traffic. We do this so Winchester’s citizens can observe a moment of remembrance and reflection as the Parade passes. Once the Parade reaches its destination at the Winchester District Memorial Cenotaph, a full Remembrance Ceremony, including Wreath laying, will occur. This beautiful ceremony allows our community to come together with the common hope that the valiant members of Canada’s Armed Forces who have fallen, and those still living, are always remembered for their service, their bravery and their sacrifices made for our freedoms. Lest We Forget.
Sunday November 10, 2024
- Pre-Parade Refreshments at 10:30am at the Winchester Legion, 482 Main Street E, Winchester
- Parade starts from the Legion at 11:30am
- Ceremony to follow parade at Winchester District Memorial Hospital
- Reception following the Ceremony at the Winchester Legion
On November 11th, the Legion will be open at 12:00pm for Comradeship. All are welcome to attend.
Horner & Pietersma
Barristers, Solicitors and Notaries
Lest we forget. Remembering and honouring our heroes
T:(613)543-2946 F:(613)543-3867
Morrisburg, Ontario
This clipping appeared in February, 1916 and seems a strange item to appear in local newspapers. The offer of a photograph of your dead son’s or husband’s grave emphasises how far away the war seemed to people in North Dundas until it hit home with a dreadful sense of loss.
In 1916, the fervent patriotism and sense of Imperial identity was already leading to ugly confrontations in the street and workplace, as those not in uniform were treated to insults and abuse over their supposed ‘cowardice”. The authorities even had to reprimand those who called munition workers cowards
Charles Stonham, 502270
Charles Stonham was born in Sussex, England, on February 7, 1872. He immigrated to Canada and lived in Winchester, where he worked as a miner. When he joined up on January 1, 1916, he was 47 years old, married, with five children. It was unusual for a man of his age, and with his family, to enlist as he did; but a large number of those who joined the Canadian Expeditionary Force had been born in the United Kingdom, and had been most affected by the Imperialist propaganda of the time. The war was seen as a great Imperial conflict, fighting against what was called an autocratic regime in Germany.
Charles arrived in France on May 20, 1916, as part of the 9th Field Company of the Canadian Engineers, but was taken seriously ill in January, 1917. The cause was Nephritis, an inflammation of the kidneys. He had suffered an attack previously, in 1906, but had recovered after two months. The medical report in 1916 noted that his condition was an old one “slightly aggravated by service” in the trenches. As a Sapper, Charles was probably engaged in digging trenches and tunnels, which led to him suffering from constant headaches and dizziness.
It was thought that recovery could take three months without further treatment, and he was returned to Canada in July, 1917, declared unfit for active service. His discharge from the army came in June, 1918. He and his family moved to Kingston, where Charles died in March, 1944.
Charles Stonham signed up as a 47 year-old husband and father of five. Eager to do his bit, as they called it, he left everything behind him to go to France and be part of the crusade for Empire. On his return from France, he was given a civic reception in Winchester, as the accompanying newspaper clipping describes.
This Toronto streetcar was turned into a recruiting station in 1917, as the
losses in
ment to any way they could find new recruits. Later this year, the government would introduce
A paragraph in the Recorder on September 21, 1916 reported that two friends from Chesterville had been wounded in France. Frank Merkley and Bismarck Fulton were well known in the area, and the report stated that Frank was seriously injured, while Bismarck had been wounded in three or four places, though it was not known how bad his injuries were. The Service Records of the two men throw more light on their stories.
Private Frank Merkley, 177343
Frank Merkley worked as a barber in Chesterville, and was married to Ethel. Born in 1881, Frank joined up October 27, 1915, when he was already 34 and a half years old. After training, he arrived in France on June 18, 1916. His time at the front was not long, but it had a devastating impact on him.
Frank was wounded in the arm by shrapnel on September 2, 1916. The medical report on his injuries showed that they were, as the newspaper report had said, serious. He had been shot in the right arm, between the shoulder and elbow, resulting in a loss of function to his elbow and partial paralysis of his right hand. The medical report was blunt: “Hand useless”. Frank sailed back to Canada on February 25, 1917, and was declared unfit for military service in Quebec. Frank Merkley was discharged from the army on July 31, 1917. He died on October 17, 1966.
Bismarck Earl Fulton
Born in Chesterville, 1895, Bismarck Fulton was a farmer who joined up on November 17, 1915. Originally assigned to the Canadian Grenadier Guards, he was later transferred to the Canadian Engineers after being wounded in the head and side by shrapnel on the Somme, September 5, 1916. He spent four weeks recuperating in hospital in England. He was wounded again in 1917, and after recovering from that, was transferred to the Canadian Light Railway Operating Company in November. After being appointed Lance Corporal in June, 1918, Bismarck was gassed the following month and was again hospitalised. But the effects of the mustard gas were still impacting him and in December, 1918, he was transferred to Seaford, England, where he remained for the rest of the war. Bismarck was discharged, January, 1919.
Bismarck was a strange name to carry into battle against the German Empire, and his experiences in France left him permanently affected by the wounds and the effects of mustard gas. Records show Bismarck Earl Fulton marrying Ada Keen in Drumheller, Alberta, in 1923, and dying in Vancouver in 1970.
Unmarked military grave: Arthur Greer
Jason Wells shares the story of his grandfather, Arthur Greer, who lies in an unmarked grave in the Maple Ridge Cemetery between Winchester and Chesterville. He wishes to highlight the great work of the Last Post Fund organization through their Unmarked Grave Program, through which he hopes to have a military marker installed for his lost relative. “I have been in touch with the Last Post Fund organization and his application is now in a queue of over 1,200 before a military veteran marker can be installed,” said Jason.
Arthur Stanley Greer (19201974)
Arthur Stanley Greer was born on May 27th, 1920 in Brockville, ON to Stanley Greer and Ethel Durant (whose fam-
ily has deep roots in both Winchester and Chesterville) and grew up in both Merrickville and Prescott.
He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy in Ottawa at the age of 20 on January 2, 1941 and quickly rose in rank from Able Seaman to Leading Seaman.
During the Battle of the St Lawrence, in which German U-boats sank over 20 merchant ships and four Canadian warships in the lower St. Lawrence River and the entire Gulf of Saint Lawrence, Strait of Belle Isle, Anticosti Island and Cabot Strait, Arthur sailed on the HMCS Medicine Hat that played a vital role escorting shipping along the St. Lawrence River, in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and between New-
Clifford Shaver 633382
foundland and the mainland of Canada.
During the Battle of the Atlantic, the longest continuous military campaign in World War II, Arthur then sailed on the HMCS Esquimalt, a Bangorclass minesweeper between December, 1942 and August, 1944. In August of 1944, he then joined the crew of HMCS St Thomas and in December of that same year, the HMCS St Thomas attacked the German submarine U-877 in the North Atlantic forcing it to surface and then sank it with squid mortar. They then rescued the entire German crew including the Captain, four officers and 50 men. He was then given an honourable discharge on September 5, 1945.
Clifford Shaver was born in Mountain in 1896, one of ten children of William and Jessie Shaver. He enlisted on February 1, 1916, went to England in October of 1916, and then to France in May 1917. He was killed by a shell October 30, 1917 at the age of 21. His body was never recovered and he is commemorated at the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial in Belgium. Clifford wrote a number of letters home and they have been included in The Canadian Letters and Images Project, an online archive of the Canadian war experience, as told through the letters and images of Canadians themselves. Begun in August 2000, the Project is located in the Department of History at Vancouver Island University.
Above:Clifford Shaver and Frank Valentine
Below: A letter from Clifford to his sister
France June 21
Dear Sister
I received your letter and picture a day or three ago and was very glad to hear from you and to get the picture a letter from home out here is like a good meal for a starving man. I have just finished a letter to mother and it will soon be getting dark but I guess I will have time to write you a few lines yet. I am sitting under a big tree in the [censored] woods where we are camped for a few days. It has been a little wet here this last few days but it is real fine this evening. We were in the line [censored] and came out Tuesday night. I think it was [censored] all mixed up in the days here every day is alike but I guess it don't matter much. It was pretty quiet while we were in the line nothing more than a few shell flying around once in a while. We were in support for the battalion and that isnt so lively as the front line I guess but it was good enough for me for the first time. One could look over the top and couldn't see a living thing or any signs of anything living if one didn't know before he seen the front I am sure he would never guess what it was in daytime but he would get a little better idea at night that is when most of the firing is done... I suppose you have heard about Alley Fisher being killed I think he was in the 21st he had only been over here a little while... Well I guess I will have to close for this time
As ever, Cliff
613-258-3445
888-342-7839
613-987-5241 877-376-3378
613-924-2632 877-246-5013
Roy Austin Cassidy, Private, 177511
Roy Cassidy was one of three brothers from RR#3, Chesterville, who signed up during WWI. Roy Austin Cassidy was born in Kemptville in 1895, and was a farmer on RR #3, Chesterville. Like many of his neighbours of the same age, he joined up on November 11, 1915, an ironic date, and was posted to the 87th Battalion, Canadian Grenadier Guards. He arrived in England aboard the Empress of Britain, and then spent weeks in hospital there, for various problems. Hospitalized with Gastritis in February; with Mumps in March-April; and Measles in May, 1916, before, finally, he went to France on August 13, 1916. Roy didn’t survive for long. He was killed in action, September 8, 1916.
A notice appeared in the local newspaper on September 21, noting that: “Mr. And Mrs. Wm Cassidy are in receipt of very sympathetic letters of condolence from General Sir Sam Hughes and from the premier, Sir Robert Borden on the death of their son, Roy, in the recent fighting in France.”
Roy was remembered at a “very interesting service” in Trinity Methodist Church, when the congregation were encouraged to live up to “their responsibility in the matter of recruiting if Canada's promise of half a million men is to be redeemed... Feeling reference was made by the pastor to the death in battle of Pte. Roy Cassidy and as a token of respect the congregation stood with bowed heads while ‘The Dead March in Saul,’ was rendered by the organist”.
Private Robert Edward Poidevin, 177514
In the same newspaper that reported the death of Roy Cassidy, there was a notice stating that “The name of Pte. R . E. Poidevin is among the wounded in this morning’s casualty list.” Robert Poidevin was a neighbour of Roy Cassidy in Chesterville, and the two young men had joined up on the same day, November 11, 1915, travelled to England on the same ship, the Empress of Britain, and shared the same experiences of soldiering.
But, whereas Roy Cassidy had lasted just a few weeks in France before being killed, Robert Poidevin would have a longer, but no less tragic life in the trenches. He was wounded by shrapnel in his foot and thigh in September, 1916, just three months after arriving in the trenches in France. After recuperating in Liverpool, he returned to the front. He spent another two months in hospital in 1917, for an infection, before again returning to the front.
In July, 1918, he was involved in an unusual accident, when digging trenches. A fellow soldier in the trench accidentally hit him on the hand with a pick, and Robert was back in hospital once again. An investigation concluded that the wound was accidental, and not an attempt to avoid time in the trenches, and, to underline this, Robert was appointed Acting Corporal on August 31, 1918. But time and luck was running out for Robert Poidevin, and he was fatally wounded in action on September 27, 1918.
Robert had listed his next of kin his sister, Hazel, who lived in Toronto, as did his brother. It may be that the family lived there at the time. As a result, the Toronto Star noted his death in November, 1918, and reported that his brother, Harold, had recently returned from the front suffering from shell shock.
Norman Bush was born in South Mountain on March 4, 1897, son of Theodore Bush. Norman was a labourer who joined up in Merrickville on January 21, 1916 when he was 18 years old. There was no height requirement at the time, as Norman stood just 5 ft. 2½ inches tall. The link with Merrickville was through his grandmother, Melissa Briggs, who had been his foster mother growing up. Norman named her as his beneficiary in his will, drawn up before he was sent to France on May 1, 1917.
There were usually some small details recorded in the files that give some personal insight into these young men. Norman is described as having feet that were “slightly flat”, and with ringworm scars on his face between his ear and eye.
Norman arrived in France on May 24, 1917 and was transferred to the 2nd Battalion of the Canadian Infantry Regiment, arriving in the trenches on June 27. Just less than three months later, Norman was killed in action near Rouen. His battalion was due to be relieved that night, but somehow, Norman died before he could leave the front. He is buried at Aix-Noulette Communal Cemetery Extension, Pas de Calais.
Stay informed about respiratory illnesses
by Prem Arora R.Ph.
Ah Fall! It’s beautiful, isn’t it? Enjoy while you can until the white stuff starts to show up. It also brings with it an increased risk of respiratory illnesses. Be prepared and have the tools needed to keep yourselves and your loved ones safe and healthy for the upcoming holiday season and beyond. Eastern Ontario is seeing moderate to high viral activity. Public Health Ontario has reported a steady increase in COVID-19 cases, with wastewater data showing evidence of community transmission. It is even more important for the higher risk populations such as the elderly, immunocompromised, people living in congregated housing, and health care workers to receive the protection they will need. Workplaces can easily get hit by Flu or Covid-19 outbreaks leading to lost productivity. Vaccinations remain the most important, easily accessible, and economical source of protection. Cold vs. Covid-19 vs. Flu. Recognize the key differences! While Cold, Flu and Covid-19 can all cause mild symptoms such as sneezing, sore throat, and congestion, Covid-19 is often associated with a persistent fever, body aches, and shortness of breath. It may also cause a sudden loss of taste or smell. Also, its progression can be much more severe, particularly for unvaccinated people or individuals in high-risk categories. Flu also shares symptoms like fever, cough and fatigue.
Flu and Covid-19 shots are now available at the local public health units, clinics and participating pharmacies. Covid-19 shots are designed to protect against the JN.1 and KP.2 strains, which are different than the XBB strains of last year. It is safe and convenient to receive both the COVID-19 and flu shots at the same time, reducing the need for multiple visits to a clinic or the pharmacy. They are free.
Families with infants and high-risk children up to 24 months old will now have access to the new RSV immunization, through the recently expanded publicly funded RSV prevention program. You may contact your health care provider for more information and access. With a large increase in Whooping Cough cases, particularly in children, it is important that children, including pregnant women, stay up to date with their routine immunizations. They are also free.
We need to remain flexible, and vigilant. Prioritize hygiene, improve air quality, eat well, exercise, and practice a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
At Winchester Heritage Pharmacy (I.D.A.), we are committed to fill and compound your Prescriptions accurately and promptly, provide the most appropriate medication and health advise, do vaccinations, and meet your day-to-day pharmacy needs in a professional and efficient manner.
Welcome to Samurai Arts Academy!
by Brandon Mayer
A successful Metcalfebased business has expanded its operations to Chesterville, giving locals a fresh new way to stay active and enjoy much needed recreational programming that promises real benefits. The business has existed in Metcalfe since 2017, and recently expanded to Chesterville at 5 King Street.
Samurai Arts Academy offers traditional Jiu-Jitsu which focuses on self-defense, confidence and awareness. During Jiu-Jitsu classes, students learn grappling, striking, and throwing as well as efficient self-defense techniques. The location also offers kickboxing classes, which are focused on fitness.
Typically, classes can be offered for children as young as 6. Because the curriculum is very dense, it requires the students to be focused. The age groups are 6-10, 11-15, and 16+.
Sensei JP Perron is the owner of the Chesterville lo-
cation. “I started my journey practicing Yoseikan Karate at a young age,” he explained. “After becoming a police officer, I realized that Jiu-Jitsu was the art I had to practice. All in all, I have been practicing for 20 years. I am the lead instructor and owner/operator. That said, our Metcalfe group of instructors will come visit and teach as well as time permits. Our Shihan will come visit on a regular basis.”
Sensei JP reports that the response to his new business has been good. He is a North Dundas resident and wanted to give back to the community.
“Too often, martial arts schools are not affordable – I wanted to be able to offer something of quality at an affordable rate to everyone around ND and surrounding communities. We are structured and focused on attention and discipline. I believe those are great qualities to share with learners. Chesterville is a beautiful community and our location is one that is very special to us. We are right in the core of Chesterville, ac-
Catholic School Board report
At the last meeting of the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario Directors, Brenda Reil, Principal of Curriculum and Student Success, Anne Leach, Principal of Math Learning in Schools, and Melissa Mader-Tardif, Board Indigenous Education Lead, presented information to the Board of Trustees on the Student Achievement Plan (SAP), Math Achievement Action Plan (MAAP), and the Indigenous Board Action Plan (BAP).
The SAP focuses on achieving learning outcomes in core academic skills, preparing students for future success, and enhancing student engagement and well-being. Key actions of
the plan include employing reading intervention teachers, using digital tools in mathematics, and promoting job skills programs, to name a few.
The MAAP emphasizes curriculum fidelity and understanding the needs of learners, with targeted support for priority schools identified by the Ministry of Education. This plan involves formative assessments, professional learning for teachers, and small group interventions to improve math outcomes.
The BAP aims to support First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students through initiatives such as Indigenous student success mentors, cultural clubs, and partner-
It’s mindboggling that scurvy
Scurvy is a terrible disease that has been eradicated, right? The disease is caused by a deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), found in oranges and other fruits and vegetables. But that simple fact was unknown between 1500 and 1747 when it’s estimated two million European sailors died while exploring the oceans. On long voyages, it was accepted that half of the crew would never return. It was a slow, painful death. But James Lind of the British Royal Navy is credited with conducting the first controlled clinical trial recorded in medical science. He compared how sailors fared when given a variety of different remedies, including oranges and lemons.
Shockingly, in 2024, scurvy is back in the news. How could this be?
elderly. Although scurvy is understood as a disease of the past, we now need to return it to consideration when patients and doctors are thinking about symptoms.
What are the symptoms?
After 8 to 12 weeks of vitamin C deficiency, you will notice fatigue, see bruising occurring more easily, and gums will bleed on brushing the teeth. Bones will ache and hair follicles will become bright red.
If you miss all these symptoms and fail to see your doctor, you are in trouble. Continued deficiency results in spontaneous internal bleeding, destruction of red blood cells, and finally death.
is back
doses of vitamin C, a nutrient that fuels cells throughout the body.
cessible to anyone, with lots of parking, lots of natural light and surrounded by many local businesses. Learners need to have a connection with their instructors.”
Sensei JP explains that members will learn self-defense skills in a controlled, structured and disciplined environment while getting fit. Samurai Arts Academy is dedicated to helping families raise their children with core values and ethics so they become respectable, fine and kind human beings. Sensei JP believes that the dojo will attract members from outside ND, therefore bringing customers for other local businesses as well.
“Our dojo is a special place. We are not in a gym setting,” added the Sensei. “We are happy to be here and we thank the community for being receptive, and we hope to be here for many decades.”
Visit www.saa-chesterville. com to learn more. Those interested can register for a free class under “services/registration” on the website.
ships with Indigenous community members and organizations. The plan is co-developed with the Indigenous Education Council to reflect local demographics and needs.
Overall, these plans reflect a collaborative approach to enhancing educational outcomes, promoting equity, and supporting the well-being of all students within the CDSBEO.
“This is certainly a thorough overview, and I am so pleased to see how these action plans are coming to life within our schools and how all of our students are receiving the tools they need to be successful on their learning journey,” concluded Chair Wilson.
A report in the Canadian Medical Association Journal details the case of a 65-year-old woman diagnosed with scurvy at the Toronto General Hospital in 2023. Her diet consisted of canned soup, canned tuna, white bread and processed cheese, and no fresh product.
Dr. Sally Engelhart, an author of the report and specialist in internal medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, says it’s not the first case she has seen, particularly among the poor and
Here’s the ridiculous part and misleading facts. The U.S. Food and Nutrition Board has set the Recommended Daily Allowance of vitamin C at 45 milligrams (mg) a day. Health Canada recommends 15-90 mg depending on age and gender –as if such miniscule variations are consequential! In fact, for good health, people should be getting much more. Only 45 mg will prevent scurvy, but for cardiovascular health, immune system strength, and many other benefits, much higher intake is essential. Aging makes it harder for the body to function, a reality that can be mitigated with high
Get rid of the thought that scurvy is a disease that only killed sailors long ago. Scurvy is still rare, but the data in North America show rates are on the rise. Why? Because people are falling victim to utterly abysmal nutrition. You don’t need an economics degree to know that people with low incomes often skip meals or eat poor quality food. But people who can and should make better choices are placing food on the table that is so unhealthy it lacks even the small amount of vitamin C needed to prevent deficiency. For the information of recent readers, I had a heart attack 27 years ago at the age of 74 and refused cholesterol-lowering drugs due to their many complications. Rather, I followed the advice of Dr. Linus Pauling and have taken at least 6,000 mg of C together with lysine every day since then. I believe it’s saved my life. Smaller amounts – 2,000 or 4,000 mg (but not 45 mg) – of vitamin C daily will always be beneficial for heart health, all organs of the body, and increased immunity. You won’t be worried about scurvy, but about living past 100!
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Young suspect arrested for St. Mikes school threats
by Brandon Mayer devices.”
The OPP has made an arrest in the string of threats that impacted St. Michael Catholic School in Kemptville, beginning on September 12. The threats happened repeatedly, and in an unusual move, were being called in directly to the OPP in late hours of the night. The threats of violence forced the school to be closed to students and staff over many school days, and in one case, caused the school to go into lockdown with students on site. The last of the anonymous threats was made against the school on October 17.
The OPP reports: “An extensive investigation by members of the Grenville OPP Crime Unit, assisted by the OPP Cyber Investigations Team, OPP Regional Support Team, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Bridgewater, Nova Scotia Police, led to the execution of a search warrant at a home and a school in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia on Friday, October 25, 2024. One person was arrested, and investigators seized electronic
A 14-year-old male from Bridgewater has been charged with:
- Uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm
- Indecent communications
- Mischief (interfere with lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property, over $5,000)
- Public mischief
- Unauthorized use of computer (destroy data)
“The identity of the individual is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act,” says the OPP release. “Anyone who shares the name publicly could be subject to criminal charges.”
The young accused individual remained in custody following his arrest, and was scheduled to appear in court by video link on October 29.
The OPP stressed in it’s media release that “public safety is paramount in any threat investigation and such incidents must be treated as serious and legitimate until proven otherwise”. Some parents believed that, on the days when the school was closed, it should have instead remained
open, but with locked doors and increased security.
“While charges have been laid, the investigation is continuing, in conjunction with police in multiple jurisdictions, as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigations in the United States,” says the OPP. “The OPP also continues to look into potential connections to any similar incidents, including a threat against a school in Iroquois.”
The singular incident involving threats made to “Iroquois area schools” forced the closure of Seaway District High School and Iroquois Public School on October 3, the same day as one of the St. Michael closures. Many undoubtedly believed that these threats were made by the same person, but the recent news from the OPP casts uncertainty on the issue. If you have any information on any of the recent school threats, contact the Grenville Detachment of the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. If you want to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca.
FOR SALE
BRAND NEW Vehicle
Parts – ALL still in the original delivery boxes. Pick up in Kemptville. Call Bill: 613868-4477. Must be paid in cash on pick-up Steel Cowel Induction Hood to fit 2003 to 2007 Chevrolet pickup. Original cost $768 plus tax. Now $500 Tonneau Cover to fit 6.5 foot pickup box. Original cost $500 plus tax, now $275 In-tank Fuel Pump for GM products, complete with locking steel washer. Original $175 plus tax. Now $75
Coil Binding Machine with electric coil inserter (Coil Mac EC1), $500 (OBO). Assorted coils included. email classifieds@ngtimes. ca
CLASSIFIEDS
OASIS PAINTING
COMMUNITY EVENTS events@ndtimes.ca
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Winchester Open Mic Cafe, Sundays 2pm to 5pm at the Old Town Hall, 478 Main Street, Winchester. Free, accessible, everyone welcome.
Morewood Recreation Association Pumpkin Carving Contest. Oct 30 2024, 6:30 - 7:30pm Carve your way to fun! Join us for a fun-filled pumpkin carving event. We'll have games, prizes, and plenty of treats. Don't forget to dress in your spookiest costume! Veteran's View Park
WDMH All-Stars Hockey Game. November 2 at 6:30 pm
The WDMH Foundation is excited to announce the second annual WDMH All-Stars Hockey Game event! Join us for a thrilling evening of hockey and fundraising for our local community at the Joel Steele Community Centre and Sam Ault Arena in Winchester, ON Spencerville Agricultural Society planning general meetings. If you are interested in joining our committee, please email info@spencervillefair.ca to receive all of the meeting details. Nov 11. The Drummond Building, 22 Ryan Street, Spencerville Ontario
Chinese Dinner, November 2 from 6:00 pm - 11:59 pm
This event typically sells out, so do not wait! Authentic Chinese Dinner, Auction, and Dance with music provided by Eddy and the Stingrays! $45 per ticket Get your tickets online ONLY - https://www.spencervillefair.ca/chinesedinner
The Drummond Building 22 Ryan Street, Spencerville, Ontario
Dundas County Players Theatrical Society will be presenting three One-Act plays As an extra bonus, please note that the proceeds from the Nov. 16 performance will go to the fundraising efforts for the Dundas Manor. Tickets on sale now on EventBrite or call 613-297-0097 to reserve your seat https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/dcp-3xone-act-plays-tickets1025441803037?aff=oddtdtcreator
Sunday Service: 10:30 am. at The Nelson LaPrade Centre nationsidepentecostalchurch. ca
Southgate Winchester
539 Main Street, Winchester Phone: 613-258-6123
Sunday Service: 10:00 am. Kids program for toddlers - Gr 6 The Pulse Youth (Gr 6 -12) biweekly on Fridays at 7pm. Play Group (babies to preschool) Wednesdays at 10am. Ladies Group bi-monthly. Contact the church office for more info. https://southgatechurch.com/
The Gathering House
2 Water St. Chesterville Phone: 613-448-1758
Sunday Service: 10:00 am. Nursery and Sunday school available for children.
Adult Bible studies throughout the week. STEM program & Youth group Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. Playgroup drop in 10:30 am on Fridays. HUB youth drop in 7 -10 pm Fridays. Cafe Mon. & Fri. 9 am - 4 pm and Wed. 12 -4 pm www.thegatheringhouse.ca
Winchester Pastoral Charge
Winchester United/Hope Springs United Church
Sunday Services
9:30 a.m. at Hope Springs United Church
11:00 a.m. at Winchester United Church www.winchesterunited.ca
Winchester Baptist Church
486 Main St. Winchester Phone: 343-649-2204
Sunday Services: 11:00 am. (hymn sing 10:45)
“Snack and chat” (lunch) after service, last Sunday each month. Join us for prayer every Tuesday evening anytime between 6:30pm and 8:00pm. https://m.facebook.com/ groups/WinchesterBaptistOnt/
Inkerman Wesleyan 11486 Queen St. Inkerman Phone: 613-989-5312
Email: antony.kiar@gmail. com
Lay Pastor: Tony Kiar
Sunday Service: 10:30 AM
CROSSWORD
ACROSS
1. Dry riverbed
5. Cultural doings
9. Give the cold shoulder
13. Biblical garden
14. Circular
16. Relative of a rabbit
17. Whip
18. Hue
19. Mine entrance
20. Desiccated
22. Hearth
24. Food
26. Necklace item
27. Deer meat
30. Not bumpy
33. Slaughterhouse
35. Pilfer
37. Excluding
38. Tattles
41. Chapter in history
42. Select by voting
45. Throbbed
48. Stick
51. Hypothesize
52. Sporting venue
54. Absorbed 55. Almost an island
59. Garbage
62. Ends a prayer
63. Clan
65. Margarine
66. Your majesty
67. Days in a week
68. V V V
69. Stepped
70. Expunge
71. Sea eagle
DOWN
1. Fuse
2. Jewish month
3. Earmarked
4. Get by a will
5. Circle fragment
6. Top of a building
7. Liliaceous plant
8. Breathes noisily while sleeping
9. Like an onion
10. Nil
11. Acid related to gout
12. A detested person
15. Fantasize
21. Detritus
23. Not amateurs
25. Doofus
27. Windmill blade
28. Deadly virus
29. Zero
31. Abstainer from alcohol
32. Rabbits
34. Blame
36. Stow, as cargo
39. Public transit vehicle
40. Aspersion
43. Fettered
44. Anagram of "Rent"
46. Expectorated
47. Give permission
49. Pauses
50. Accustomed
53. Not dead
55. Times gone by
56. Arab ruler
57. Adopted son of Claudius
58. Cain's brother
60. Observed
61. Tube
64. East northeast
Senior Rockets biggest game of the year coming November 2
In what has been described as “A clash of the Titans”, the November 2nd home game between the North Dundas Rockets and the Manotick Mariners is expected to set a possible attendance record in the hometown Chesterville Rink. In fact, there has been a buzz all season long with the Rockets fan base in what might be the most highly anticipated league game in Eastern Ontario Super Hockey League history! The Mariners, new to the league this year, have yet to play against the 2-time league champ Rockets… who are in their fourth season in the EOSHL. From the outside, one may wonder why two teams that have never played one another would be such a big deal, but in reality, the two teams share a tonne of history. For those who are not up to date… perhaps a team recap should be in order.
The North Dundas Senior hockey club is the brainchild of Rob Raistrick and Robyn Sadler. “The two Robs” as they
like to be called have strong ties to the North Dundas community and were instrumental in putting together a Senior team which they thought could compete at the highest level. In the summer of 2019, Sadler recruited two forwards, Brett Gustavsen and Ryan Lough from the West Carleton Rivermen in hopes that they could contribute to his squad in the inaugural Rockets season. “Gus was a diamond in the rough” stated Sadler. “He didn’t produce with the Rivermen but once he came to Chesterville the floodgates opened”. In his 3 years with the Rockets, #66 Brett Gustavsen played 78 games and accumulated 193 pts (76 G, 117 A). Gustavsen, who was a crowd favourite, also took home EOSHL top forward honours two times. #93 Ryan Lough, who was acquired in the same year was described by Sadler as “A natural goal scorer with speed like no other”. In his three years with the Rockets, Lough proved his worth and collected 138 pts (80 G, 58 A) in 55 games in the cream and
red jersey.
The Manotick Mariners, formerly the Cornwall Prowlers, were bought and relocated in the spring of 2024. Over the course of the summer, the Mariners proved they were going to be a force to be reckoned with by making some key signing announcements. On September 20, 2024, Manotick made a major announcement that further boosted their club’s potential as a contender by acquiring both Brett Gustavesen and Ryan Lough from the North Dundas Rockets.
“It’s sad to see them go” stated Rockets head coach Robyn Sadler “but they both asked for a trade to be closer to home so I didn’t want to hold them back”. Manotick, who reside in the Capital Division of the EOSHL, are sitting in first place with a 4-1 record. Newly appointed captain Ryan Lough has made a big impact with 16 pts (8G, 8A).
For those in North Dundas who have yet to take in a Rockets game, this Saturday will be an excellent demonstration of the best senior hockey in Eastern Ontario. For those faithful Rockets fans, get ready for fast paced, hard hitting action… warm-up at 1:30… puck drop at 2:00. An afternoon of excitement with a cold beverage in the Launch pad and as always, the 50/50 and watch someone from the crowd shoot for $25,000 in cash. To keep up to date with the Senior Rockets, don’t forget to follow the Facebook page. For all stats, scores, and standings in the EOSHL, click on eoshl.hockeyshift.com.
The question is North Dundas: ARE YOU GOING TO THE GAME!?
by Paul Cormier,
With minus temperatures this morning and frost on the pumpkins, our thoughts start to turn towards the upcoming festive season. Gone are the days when stores would start putting out their Christmas inventory after 11 November. Now, everyone gets on the bandwagon even before Hallowe’en has taken place. Since today’s recipe is one that “keeps” and is a family favourite, let’s go with Applesauce Gumdrop Cake.
Applesauce Gumdrop Cake
Ingredients
1 cup of shortening
1 cup of white granulated sugar
2 cups of flour
2 eggs
1 cup of applesauce
1 cup of raisins
An 18 ounce bag of fresh gumdrops
1 teaspoon each of cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder and vanilla extract
Preparation
Pre-heat your oven to 350F
Cream the shortening, sugar and cinnamon, then add the eggs, applesauce and vanilla
Add the flour to the mixture along with the nutmeg, baking soda and powder
Dust the gumdrops and raisins with a bit of flour in a separate bowl
Then, fold the gumdrops and raisins into your mixture
Pour into a loaf pan that you have lined with parchment paper or sprayed with oil
Bake for about an hour or until your probe comes out clean
This cake benefits from aging a bit. So, once cool, you can wrap it in plastic film, then in aluminum foil and store in a cool dry place. If you live in the country as we do and the mice are starting to come in for the winter, you might store your cake in a biscuit tin. Dollarama also has some spiffy containers of various sizes for your home pantry. You can freeze this cake for use later in the winter or closer to Christmas. This cake looks nice on your festive season display plate of goodies and also has quite a distinctive flavour.
All the best from Paul at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.
Patience is a virtue!
Yesterday, being so excited about the continuation of our summer until such a late date in October, I felt that I just had to get out and enjoy it somehow. Well, having taken a trip out the day before with sports car friends to see the Autumnal colours, I was about to put my thinking cap on, when a familiar sound filled the air, that of honking Canada Geese. That’s it, I thought, I’ll go and get some pictures of them as they land and take-off from the creek at the end of the road. So off I trot, well not really, I got in my car and drove it to the end of the road to use as a “hide”,
determined not to give up so once again headed back towards the Kemptville Creek.
The day before, in my sports car, I had ventured back through Oxford Mills and then cut across towards home, by using the road that crosses the railway line and also the Creek, where it forms quite a large pond area where the geese might gather. Well, for a change, I was correct and there were quite a few of them present, so I was in luck, or so I thought! No birds came and landed, and those already resting on the water weren’t looking like they were going anywhere in
should I want to sit out of the cold even though it was quite sunny. My initial enthusiasm was dampened, when I tried to get a couple of pictures of a pair of geese, as they came into land. The foliage surrounding the creek at that location was going to be a problem so, once again, on with the “thinking cap” as to where to next! First thoughts were to the Rideau River, but where the boat launch is that I usually try, I knew that the geese wouldn’t be there. I was right of course, but the scenic views were superb and a couple of fishermen in a boat made up a little for the lack of birds! However, I was
the near future, but one never knows! Well, I parked my car off the road and found a good sitting down water viewing point, on one of the road barriers – 8”x 8” or 10”x10” support posts – and hunkered down for what I hoped would be for just a short while. That was the hope anyway, but the birds had other ideas. No newcomers arrived and none of them departed the whole three hours that I waited in anticipation of that event happening. They would all, teasingly, form into a large group, and my hopes would rise that this was it, but no, they would slowly disperse in their little groups and the
start of another wait began! Fortunately, I am an enthusiastic Train Buff, so I did get an opportunity to see a couple of trains pass over the “Level Crossing” to break my bird sojourn! It made a change from hearing the vehicles rattle past behind me for the rest of the time. Sadly, there were no other sightings of any other types of birds in that vicinity for the whole time I was there, except for a lone Bluejay!
Well after over three hours of perseverance and no sign of Canada Geese action, I reluctantly decided to “call it quits”, besides, my rear end wasn’t feeling so comfortable with such a long relationship with the wooden posts! So, a little bit crestfallen, I departed from my watching position and resolved to try again another day, but maybe not this year unless this lovely weather continues. I hope that you are getting better luck than me in your bird watching activities, but please don’t give up, all these little setbacks are just that, and you will very soon get something special happening in your bird watching life. Stay safe and well. Cheers, John Baldwin
About to take off - No chance!
A Blue Jay dropped in late in the day
by Murray Link
Salamanders of Kemptville
This is Ellie, she is a 4yr old Newfoundland x Labernese. She is a social butterfly who loves her walks up to Ault Park and enjoys playing at dog parks in the region
Ridge (Rescue Mutt/Mixed breed) age 7, and Winter ( Australian Shepherd) age 12
WINCHESTER HERITAGE PHARMACY
Business Sisters networking event in Winchester a success
On October 17, Cannamore Orchard in rural Crysler held a grand opening for its newly renovated Fudge Kitchen. “Our doors are open, and we're ready for business!” the Orchard shared, calling the grand opening an “exciting new chapter”.
Cannamore Orchard is a popular local attraction, particularly in the fall each year. It saw about 10,000 visitors last year, and this year has 88 hires to run the signature event – Acres of Terror. Victoria Bakker and Matthew Kelly bought the business three years ago, with Amanda Burger acting as its Administrator. Prior to this year, the Orchard had not done fudge in two years. A grant from the SDG Regional incentives program made these new renovations possible. Congratulations to the Orchard team!
by Doreen Ashton Wagner
On October 22, women business owners from across Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry (SD&G) and a few from Prescott-Russell gathered in Winchester for a vibrant networking event hosted by Business Sisters. The reception was graciously hosted by the team at Bridals By Al-Mor, with owners Kim and Lexy Carruthers, and their efficient manager Jessica Lortie. The food was expertly catered by Cheryl Beasley and Jolene Moore of Simply Baked, just across the street. With 32 participants, the event fostered connections and support among entrepreneurs from various industries.
In addition to meaning-
CAMIMH applauds historic amendment to the Canada Health Act
by Isabelle Del Rio, CAMIMH
Health
On World Mental
Day, Member of Parliament, Gord Johns (Courtenay-Alberni) rose in the House of Commons and tabled Bill C-414
An Act to Amend the Canada Health Act (mental, addictions and substance use health services). This signals a significant step in the modernization of the
Canada Health Act, enacted in 1984. If passed, this Bill will provide the people of Canada access to a wider array of publicly funded supports for mental health and substance use health in their communities.
The amendment is welcomed by CAMIMH (Canadian Alliance on Mential Illness and Mental Health):
“CAMIMH would like to thank Member of Parliament Johns for his leadership in tabling this historic Bill,” said Florence Budden, CAMIMH Co-Chair, “CAMIHM has insisted for several years that Canada create the legislative framework to fully integrate expanded access to publicly funded mental health and substance use health care services from coast-to-coast- to-coast.”
“Mental health and substance use health is health and must be equally valued along with our physical health,” said Anthony Esposti, CAMIMH Co-Chair. “We know that mental health and substance use health touches every Canadian, either themselves, loved ones or members of their community are seeking support and we call on each national political party to put all health care needs of the people of Canada first and support this crucial amendment to the Canada Health Act.
There can be no health without mental health and substance use health.
CAMIMH stands ready to work with all Parliamentarians to support the swift passage of Bill C-414.
Established in 1998, the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) is a member-driven alliance of 18 national mental health organizations comprised of healthcare providers and organizations representing persons with lived and living experience, their families and caregivers. CAMIMH’s mandate is to ensure that mental health and substance use health is placed on the national agenda so that the people of Canada receive timely and appropriate access to care and support. For more information on our work, please visit our website at www.CAMIMH.ca.
ful conversations, the event featured exciting door prizes generously donated by local businesses. Pictured are the lucky winners: Véronique Landry (The Garden Tea Party), who received a fused glass pen-
dant donated by an anonymous Business Sister; Lexie Jasiewicz (ACC Futures) and Jessica Lortie (Bridals by Al-Mor), each winning candles from The Garden Tea Party; Cheryl Beasley (Simply Baked) and
Hayley Bedford (Handmade by Haley), who both won $50 gift certificates from Green Gables Vines; Lexy Carruthers (Bridals by Al-Mor), who took home merchandise from Winchester Travel; and Laura Peck (Laura's B&B), who received a gift certificate from Bridals by Al-Mor. This gathering served as a powerful reminder of the strength and solidarity within the local business community and provided attendees with valuable opportunities to grow their networks. Business Sisters is a bilingual social enterprise supporting rural women business owners in SD&G and Prescott-Russell with events, advisory services and peer mentorship groups.
You, Local Health Care, Planned Giving and the WDMH Foundation
Did You Know:
➣ You can gift shares, securities and mutual funds to the WDMH Foundation. Not only do these gifts support local health care, gifting shares can eliminate some or all capital gains.
➣ The new Dundas Manor is being built today because of legacy gifts. Although these gifts will not be received for years to come, they are a part of the campaign goal and are ensuring the new home is built now.
➣ The government does not provide hospitals funding for medical equipment. Past legacy gifts have helped ensure our local hospital is well-equipped today and future legacy gifts will be part of the future care at our local hospital.
➣ There are many types of legacy gifts. Such as a gift in your Will or listing the WDMH Foundation as the beneficiary of an RRSP, RRIF, TFSA or life insurance policy.
➣ Gifts of shares and legacy gifts receive a charitable income tax receipt. These receipts can help offset your taxes.
To learn more, please contact Erin Kapcala, Manager of Major and Planned Giving for the WDMH Foundation at 613-292-7468 or ekapcala@wdmh.on.ca or visit: www.wdmhfoundation.ca/aboutplannedgiving
