ND Times Issue 25 2022 December 15

It seems like such a short time ago that I was writing about a free Christmas turkey dinner being provided by Winchester United Church on Christmas Day, December 25. In fact, that story graced the front page of the Times on our last issue of 2021, as a reminder of what the Christmas season is all about –

love, generosity, and warm traditions. A full year has gone by, and surely none are surprised that the generosity of the Church endures, and the free will offering is being made once again. The only difference this year is that the time has changed to 11:30 am-1:30 pm. The free Christmas dinner is an annual tradition that has been going on for over 10 years. Similar to last year, the dinner will offer takeout as the

only option.

Heather Rose is a member of Winchester United Church who is responsible for coordinating the dinners. Given that she told the Times earlier this month that “nothing has changed” regarding the much-loved annual tradition, it seems appropriate to reminisce on her thoughts from last year on why the Church organizes the dinner. “It’s obviously an important time of year, and it’s a great

opportunity to do some outreach to the community,” she told the Times in December 2021. “Anybody and everybody has come in the past, such as those who were alone and came with other friends, or individuals who came by themselves and sat at tables where they had the opportunity to share a meal and some great conversation on Christmas Day. So really, our hope is that we can share a lot of joy with people and have the opportunity for anyone and everyone to come and enjoy a nutritious meal and, hopefully, also warm their heart with just the sharing of friendship.”

The meal is not necessarily planned as an event for the less fortunate, but is rather a community-minded event. The meal provides the opportunity for community outreach, which is what makes it worthwhile to put on the free meal every year.

Winchester United Church is located at 519 St. Lawrence Street in Winchester. All are welcome to come pick up a meal. As in previous years, all those who plan on stopping by are asked to reserve their meal by calling 613-7742512. Thank you to all of our readers for another great year of connection with the amazing North Dundas community. Tis the season of joy, generosity, family, friends, love, and good spirits. Merry Christmas!

25 Years of giving through the Judy Lannin Christmas Wish Tree

mas Wish Tree program. It provides a special way to honour or remember family and friends with a gift to the WDMH Foundation.

“As we look toward the festive season, we are also grateful for 25 years of giving,” notes Kristen Casselman, Managing Director. “In those two and a half decades, our generous donors have donated $1.15 million dollars through the Wish Tree program! What an amazing community we have - thank you so much!”

opportunity to remember, reflect, and show appreciation and caring through this special program.”

Donors can donate online at https://www.wdmhfoundation.ca/onlinegiving/ donation/campaign or call the Foundation office at 613774-2422 ext. 6162. Names submitted with donations will be placed on ornaments and displayed on the giant tree in the hospital lobby.

Join us on December 13 for the Virtual Tree Lighting!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – and it just got a lot better as we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Judy Lannin Christ-

Proceeds go to the Family Care Fund ‘to support families just like yours’ and to help ensure that Winchester District Memorial Hospital (WDMH) can continue to provide compassionate, excellent health care – close to home.

Kristen Casselman explains the meaning behind the program: “Five years ago, we were honoured to rename this program to the Judy Lannin Christmas Wish Tree in honour and memory of a special lady. Judy Lannin was a kind-hearted and determined WDMH team member who started the Wish Tree. She always instilled the gift of giving. Every year, we all have the

On Tuesday, December 13 at 5 pm, the WDMH Foundation will hold a virtual tree lighting ceremony. It will be live streamed on the WDMH Foundation Facebook page at www.facebook.com/wdmhfoundation.

“We hope everyone can tune in from home to see the giant tree lit up and enjoy the entertainment,” adds Justine Plummer, Manager, Direct Mail & Events. Special thanks to the many sponsors of The Judy Lannin Christmas Wish Tree. Happy Holidays everyone!

submitted by Jane Adams, WDMH Foundation

A beauty star in our midst

competing in the pageants. “It was an incredible experience, and I felt so empowered by the kindness and drive from the women competing with me,” she said. “I walked on the stage and remained true to myself and my vision.” Although Lauren did not get a crown for the top five, she does not feel as though she lost. “I feel like I gained,” Lauren said. “I feel like I’ve become the most self aware, attentive, and best version of myself these last months. I am so grateful for what is to come from this as well.”

by Brandon Mayer

Something that many of us don’t expect with small town living is finding out what big names live among us. Last week, the Times shared the story of GIF star Robert E. Blackmon. Now it’s time to put the spotlight on a different kind of star – beauty star and Miss Ottawa winner Lauren Pederson.

Being a beauty star is about both brains and beauty, and for Lauren, the allure of the idea came from the realization of how it could help her do even more good things in her career in children’s mental health. Lauren is a Child and Youth Counsellor in a psychiatric ward, in addition to being a Children’s Aid Society volunteer, a Unicef child rights advocate, a Bachelor of Social Work student, a mental health activist, and the creator and founder of Legendary Wellness.

Growing up in Osgoode, Lauren moved to the Mountain/North Grenville area at the beginning of high school, and enrolled at St. Michaels. Throughout high school, Lauren volunteered at many places that support those in need, including the Salvation Army, House of Lazarus, and the Special Olympics (through St. Michaels). “After graduation, I followed up with schooling for child youth counselling in Kingston,” said Lauren. “Ultimately, I

fell deep into a passion for children’s mental health. I was named the student representative, and went on to graduating with honours.”

Lauren’s final goal is to become a child psychotherapist after completing her Master’s degree.

Lauren’s journey as a beauty star started in Kingston. “While in Kingston, I was modeling, and the photographer and I were having an open conversation about mental health and my dreams for our country,”

Lauren said. “She posed the idea of Canadian Pageants (Miss World Canada to be exact!). What resonated, was that the top five contestants get funding and coverage for their ‘beauty with a purpose’ project.” Lauren’s goal for the project, which has not changed, is a free children’s mental health website that would bridge multiple gaps youth are facing today when it comes to accessing resources.

“I had no idea what I was doing, however I kept focusing on my goal of helping the children I’ve counselled over the years, and I ended up in the top 10,” Lauren said. “Which meant, I won the title of Miss Ottawa for one year, and was now an official delegate for Miss World Canada 2022! I just competed and returned actually, and I was top five in all speaking challenges and top five in fitness/strength overall, and won a few of the specific fitness challenges!”

Lauren truly enjoyed

True to her vision and goals, Lauren has been very present in the Ottawa area since winning the Miss Ottawa title, which is plain to see from her social media platforms, and from TV, parades, and interviews. “I will continue to connect with my community through mental health activism, charitable events, and more,” Lauren added. “I will continue being a mentor for any youth suffering out there.” Lauren can be found on social media at https://www.facebook.com/ laurenzo.pederson.

Local resident Lauren Pedersen combines brains and beauty to further mental health causes that are important to her

The spirit of giving up

by Brandon Mayer

One hallmark of the Christmas season is the amount of campaigns that get underway to feed the hungry and help the homeless. I can’t imagine how horrible it must be to live without a home, or to have too little money to buy food. I am privileged to live close to a food bank, so I trust that my neighbours have enough food, though realistically many who struggle with food insecurity probably avoid accessing food banks because of the stigma involved. Homelessness has its own stigmas as well, and for that we only have our own societal norms to blame. Perhaps it is time to start looking at homelessness and hunger in entirely different ways. Maybe it needs to be everyone’s problem.

It has been over 18 months since Kerry-Lynne Wilson wrote a despicable article in the Ottawa Citizen in which she argues that downtown Ottawa will simply not be attractive to tourists until the homeless

are cleaned up. Describing herself as the “ideal” Ottawa resident, she shared complaints about being accosted by the “mentally ill,” judged the clothing choices of the homeless people she encountered, and even smugly described leaving a young boy shivering in a bush since a few dollars would not have made a difference. It can really hurt a person’s sense of faith in the human race to know that people like Kerry-Lynne not only hold the views that they do, but rise to positions where they have the ability to share their views with millions of people. I can think of a few politicians who have similar attitudes, holding themselves on pedestals and giving themselves raises while legislating their constituents into poverty. One can only hope that 18 months worth of dissenting opinions have helped Kerry-Lynne see the error of her attitudes toward those in need.

One important way that we can all contribute to helping those who need it is by making small gestures

year round. Things such as “care package” campaigns are important in the sense that they give those in need something to look forward to, and remind them that the “spirit of giving”, which is the hallmark of the holiday season, also applies to them. The problem is what happens after the holiday season, a month or two later when the items from the care packages have been used up, and everyone has returned to the daily grind, and many won’t give the homeless and the hungry a second thought until the next Christmas season. To the less fortunate, this period probably makes it feel as though even the kind-hearted people of the world have been infected with the spirit of giving up.

I believe that those of us who have the means to be able to give have the obligation to do so. Many may not agree, as is their right. When I say “obligation”, I simply mean giving something, anything, but not any kind of amount that would make us financially uncomfortable. My favourite way to donate is when

I am asked by a cashier in a store. These donations usually benefit local people in need, and they are in small increments. In many cases, the ask is for a flat rate of $2 to a local food bank. Frankly, if I am in the checkout line at the LCBO with $50 worth of merchandise, it is hard to find an excuse not to donate that $2 to someone who doesn’t have food or shelter.

For five consecutive years in my younger days, I canvassed door-to-door for the Canadian Cancer Society. The Cancer Society was always one of the few organizations that did canvassing. When was the last time you remember a food bank representative knocking on your door? Truth is, my firsthand experience as a canvasser taught me that many people actually wait for that opportunity to give at the door each year. They would budget for one donation every year, and refuse all other requests for donations, citing the fact that they were waiting for the yearly canvassing. For places such as food banks and homeless shelters, it

may therefore be necessary for them to partner with local stores to solicit donations, as annoying as it can sometimes be.

My grandfather once told me that he does not like to donate when asked in a store, because he has noticed on his receipts in the past that sales tax has been charged, and it is not clear where that extra money is going. That is a valid reason to be hesitant about donating in stores, but it is still important to find other ways to donate when a certain method makes you uncomfortable.

Unfortunately for many charitable organizations, funds are simply not available for advertising and campaigning. My workplace currently has food lining one of the hallways, which is an obvious indicator of a food drive, though I don’t remember hearing about it before seeing the food donations start to pile up. Even certain aspects of smart donating can be hard for food banks and other charities to communicate to large numbers of people. For example, years ago I

The local side of Ontario’s healthcare problem

on their way, they were told that Montfort no longer had the resources necessary to deliver the baby either. Ottawa’s General Hospital also did not have room, but the Queensway-Carleton Hospital – an hour away –could take them. Kendra was unsure if she could make it that long and went back to the Winchester hospital to be re-assessed, hoping ambulance transport might be possible.

was told that food banks prefer monetary donations to donations of actual food. This is because they can stretch a dollar further than the average consumer, meaning your donation of money ends up being “bigger” than an equivalent donation of food. Another thing to keep in mind is that certain food items are in demand at certain times, and often that information is not well advertised – bighearted people must go searching for it.

In any case, giving to worthy causes and helping those in need is something that can be quite easy, and often make only a small dent in the finances of an average household. We live in a very generous community, and we take care of our own. Like all positive initiatives, it can never hurt to do more. For starters, let’s make sure that we don’t give up on those is need when Christmas has come and gone. Cheers to a spirit of giving that lasts 365 days a year!

Headline news recently has been touting the fact that there is a healthcare problem in Ontario. Specifically, there is a shortage of doctors and nurses which is making it difficult for people to access medical care when they need it. North Dundas’ own

Winchester District Memorial Hospital made headlines earlier this month when a couple from Russell shared their story with CBC News.

Kendra Duval and her husband Ken were expecting the birth of their son at the end of November, when a chain of unfortunate events in the healthcare system created what can only be

described as a nightmare. The couple had planned for Kendra to deliver their baby in Winchester, but found out amidst hours of pre-labour at home that the birthing unit in Winchester had been closed due to a lack of staff.

A backup plan was for the couple to go to Ottawa’s Montfort hospital, but when they called to say they were

With a nurse and an ER doctor doing their best for Kendra while she waited at the Winchester hospital for next steps, an OB-GYN doctor showed up just in time to deliver the baby. A small complication with the umbilical cord was resolved, and their baby, Kayce, is now happy and healthy.

Kendra and Ken are not blaming the Hospital or the staff for what happened. Shutting down hospital units

when not enough staff are available to run them is, without a doubt, the only safe and viable option. However, childbirth is not a time when any expecting parents should have to go through the stresses that Kendra and Ken went through.

What is causing staffing shortages in Ontario’s hospitals? Only informed speculation can address that question, with the answer likely in line with the reasons for staffing shortages across all other industries. In the specific case of healthcare, nursing staff in particular are in high demand, but many are burnt out due to years of working during the COVID-19 pandemic. The most recent labour dispute for nurses also ended in Doug Ford’s ProgressiveConservative government capping nurse’s wage increases at 1% per year, at a time when minimum wage

and wages in general across many sectors have been skyrocketing. Simply put, nurses have been feeling overworked and underpaid, a reality which is not sustainable in an industry that heavily relies upon them.

The birthing unit at Winchester District Memorial Hospital is highly esteemed, with many expecting parents from across SD&G and beyond specifically choosing to travel to Winchester as their hospital of first choice for their baby’s delivery. One can only hope that no other families will ever experience what Kendra and Ken went through, but until industry changes are made, a recurrence seems far too likely.

The Winchester District Memorial Hospital by Brandon Mayer

Tid Bit Musings

by Elva Patterson Rutters, RSSW

To permit is to promote! By ignoring, disregarding or minimizing negative behaviors, you are actually allowing such behavior to flourish. It takes confidence and positive self-esteem to take a stand against wrong-doings. All too often, the excuse is that we expect no less from that individual or family. This is not just children, but adults and organizations that enable wrongs to continue.

EA's seeking smaller numbers to care for reflects on the disruptive behaviors of an increasing number of children. Why? Personally, I have heard a parent state they couldn't wait to send their 4 year old to school because they can't handle the child. A parent has more resources than the school, so who do you think is going to introduce choices and consequences?

The other challenge is, are we now seeing cannabis affect children like FASD? THC collects on the fat and reproductive cells, so eggs if not suppressed totally, are bound to have imperfections. A social and behavioral defect often occurs. It will take years of scientific study to confirm that theory. The effects of alcohol on a fetus are known, and yet there are those who negate or minimize the effect of a drink or two. A FASD child clearly states- my mother abused me before I was born. Drugs consumed do have an effect, so if you permit use, you are promoting the behaviors.

Another accepted validation is "it could have been worse." Extremes do not have to occur for an action to be wrong. Are you saying the overall 'good' outweighs an injustice? Bullying and threats fall into this area of justification. Wrong is wrong!

This is the season for re-evaluating your beliefs, sanctions, loyalties and implementation of revised concepts. The best gift you can give yourself is a clear conscience. Change begins with you. You have the right and responsibility to make a better "now!" Tomorrow will never arrive, the past is gone and the present is all you have.

EOHU warns of the severity of the flu in young children

As hospital admissions rise, the Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) is warning residents of the severity of flu infection in young children and reminding of the importance of the flu shot in protecting against the illness.

While the flu is a common seasonal illness, unlike the common cold, it can cause severe symptoms and complications. Local hospitals are currently seeing more cases of the flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) than COVID-19, in both children and adults. Children under 5 are especially at risk of severe complications due to their developing immune systems and small airways, and pediatric hospitals in the area are seeing surges in critical admissions, with the majority being cases of the flu and RSV.

The flu shot is the best protection against the flu and is highly recommended for those who are at high risk of complications, especially children 6 months to 5 years old. The flu shot is available free of charge to anyone 6 months and older who lives, works or attends school in Ontario.

Babies under 6 months old are not old enough to receive the flu shot and are at an even higher risk of complications and severe illness requiring hospitalization. If you have a young child in your life, getting your flu shot is recommended as it can prevent you from getting and passing the flu on to them.

"Children have generally been spared the worst effects of COVID-19, but the flu is different. Sadly, the flu can be very dangerous for children, and this year it has been particularly severe and arrived earlier than usual,” says Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, Medical Officer of Health at the EOHU. “Booking an appointment to get the flu shot for you and your child is one of the best things you can do to help keep them healthy and out of hospital.”

Other ways to help prevent the spread of illness include wearing a mask in crowded indoor public settings, washing your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer often, disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, sneezing and coughing into your elbow or sleeve, and staying home if you feel sick.

If your child has severe symptoms and illness from the flu, do not hesitate to seek medical attention, including going to your local emergency room.

Council jumps right into business

by Brandon Mayer

The first two regularly scheduled meetings of the newly elected Council were packed with routine business as local lawmakers hit the ground running in the new term. The first meeting of the new Council – which includes two brand new faces – took place on November 29. Mayor Tony Fraser opened the evening by announcing that it was an exciting night for him, owing to “new Council members, new energy, and new enthusiasm”.

Procedures followed during municipal council meetings are governed tightly by The Municipal Act, 2001. New Council members Matthew Uhrig and John Lennox appeared to have no issues adjusting to the formality of Council business, and everything flowed smoothly.

The first delegation for the new term of Council came from SDSG Member of Parliament Eric Duncan, a popular former Mayor of North Dundas who pointed out the humour and the irony of the situation during his introduction.

Trustees with the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) met on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022, for their first official meeting of the 2022-2026 term. Some of the items discussed in the public session are as follows.

We All Belong Student Survey Update

Superintendent of Schools Marsha McNair, Principal of Equity and Inclusion Dan McRae, and Research Officer Dr. Kathleen Moss presented an update on the UCDSB We all Belong Student Survey. The survey, which launched on Nov. 14, is open for Kindergarten to Grade 12 students.

Marsha explained that the survey results will help the school district better understand the needs of its students, allowing for the UCDSB to allocate resources and enhance programs in different ways to increase student success and more students feeling safe and accepted at school. This survey connects directly to the Director’s Work Plan for student culture and the Board Improvement and Equity Plan.

Dr. Moss shared that the

survey is well underway and that it will close Dec. 12. After the survey closes, the data will be cleaned, validated and analyzed. A final report will then be presented in the spring.

Student Enrollment

Update

Superintendent of Schools Bill Loshaw presented to the Board an update on student enrolment. Preliminary data in the spring initially showed an increase of approximately 584 students - 468 elementary students and 116 secondary students. Bill shared that the UCDSB takes a conservative approach when calculating student projections and as such the actual headcount is an increase of 714.

Bill also shared with trustees that for this school year, 3,245 students have been registered to attend a UCDSB school for the first time. This total represents students from all grades. Of that number, 1,683 are Junior Kindergarten students, representing the highest number of Junior Kindergarten students reported since 2017.

The elementary first-

The flu shot is available now through participating pharmacies and health care providers. The EOHU also offers the flu shot at its offices to children under 5 and their household members by appointment only. For more information on the flu and the flu shot, please visit EOHU.ca.

The business covered during the first meeting was routine. This business included budget amendments related to municipal drain maintenance, sidewalk replacements and sign reflectivity inspections. A closed session discussion also took place, with one of the items discussed being “proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board - specifically related to the Water Main Loop”. Members of the media and the public are not privy to closed session discussions for specific reasons. In this case, the reason was that the discussion contained personal information about an identifiable individual.

time UCDSB students, apart from Junior Kindergarten, have either moved and are now part of the UCDSB geographical area or have switched local school boards.

For secondary, it can be attributed to students coming from other countries as international students, refugees, having moved geographical areas, or having switched local school boards.

The UCDSB currently sits at 27,095 students.

The agenda for the second regular meeting of Council on December 6 was a far busier one, with many items to discuss, including routine amendments to by-laws and a November 2022 Community Grant proposal. The impending expiry of the water and sewer allocations that were issued in early 2021 was also discussed, particularly whether an extension should be granted for expired allocations, or if these allocations should be revoked pending re-application. Given that the Township ran out of water and sewer allocations in October 2021, municipal staff recommended that Council announce that new allocations may be available in early 2023, allowing applications for new water and sewer allocations to begin coming in this month for the first time in over a year. This proposal was accepted. Council is sure to be under significant pressure this term to address ongoing water and sewer quality and quantity concerns.

Other business during the December 6 meeting included a 2023 budget update, and a presentation on how the controversial Bill 23 (More Homes Built Faster Act) will affect the Township. Continued consultation services for 2022 and 2023 for the Boyne Road Landfill and Mountain Landfill were approved. Councillor Gary Annable was nominated as the Counties Council alternate should Mayor Fraser and Deputy Mayor Bergeron be unavailable to attend a meeting.

One issue during the October municipal election was how to better include North Dundas residents in Council business. One easy way to stay informed – thanks to modern technology – is to watch meetings in their entirety from the comfort of home. The dedicated Township of North Dundas YouTube channel can be viewed at https:// www.youtube.com/@townshipofnorthdundas3550/ streams.

Christie Lane Winchester

Chronic labour shortage: 75 % of agribusinesses say they are short-staffed and working longer hours

Courtesy of Farmer's Forum

Nearly three quarters of Canadian agribusiness owners are working more hours because they are short-staffed, and nearly half are turning down sales or contracts for the same reason, according to a new Canadian Federation of Independent Business report on the negative impact of chronic labour shortages in the ag sector.

It's part of a gloomier mood the CFIB found among agribusiness owners, who have been "the least optimistic about the future of their business for six consecutive months."

Eighty per cent would advise someone against starting a business because of labour shortages, Taylor Brown, Senior Policy Analyst at CFIB, said.

Just over 40 % of surveyed agribusinesses decreased their services because of the worker shortage, according to the report. Just over 60 % of these owners also relied on existing staff to work more hours.

The agribusiness labour shortage "limits productivity and growth and is putting Canada's food supply at risk," Jasmin Guénette, Vice-President of National Affairs at CFIB, said.

"We need policies that will support our farmers and agri-businesses to ensure the agriculture sector is competitive and productive and the current shortages of labour are prioritized," Guénette said.

The CFIB is calling on policymakers to:

· Streamline and simplify the Temporary Foreign Worker program to get more workers into Canada faster.

· Provide tax relief to hire older workers and other underrepresented groups.

· Stimulate automation in agri-businesses through programs or tax credits.

“Charlie is ready for Santa!” Photo by Carrie Paquin

Baldwin's Birds

Just a little bit of red

The weather seems to be unable to make up its mind what to do, as is the same for our garden birds. The cold wet does not "do it" for anything, or anyone, but the warmer days bring out our better moods! Of course, on these days the birds don't seem to need our assistance quite so much, in finding food, so are not so numerous at our feeders. However, those that do still come are a delight to see and never fail to provide a continuous moving picture in our front window where the hanging feeders are. The continuous flitting to and fro' of the precocious little Chickadees, as I restock some of my feeders, always give me great pleasure. The bold little fellas and lasses don't actually land on the feeders, or even my offered hand, but teasingly sit on an adjacent branch and nip in to take a seed and return to their branch to eat it. They are so quick you hardly have time to realize what

they have just done, before they repeat the act, over and over! Super!

These little birds flit freely from my garden feeders to the hanging ones, which are shared by a few Gold Finches, sadly lacking their brilliant yellow colors on our drab pre winter days, but we do have one bit of red showing up in the plumage of a House Finch. This bird mixes freely with the other type of finches, still displaying some of its lovely red coloring on its head and, more faintly, on its chest. He seems to be alone in respect of his breed, at the moment, but seems to be thriving in the company of his Goldfinch peers, so we get to enjoy both types at once. No doubt the cold weather, when it comes, will also bring with it more red to the feeders in the form of Red Polls and Purple Finches, so there is still something for us to look forward to. Of course an even more brilliant red is provided by everyone's favorite, the Cardinal, whose

red colors really stand out nicely on those soon to come snowy days. Let's hope that you too get to see some of these birds, as we make our way through time until Christmas Day and the end of year celebrations. Please remember, though, to stay safe and well.

Cheers, John

Baldwin

Claude’s Gardening and Landscaping Forum

I was recently asked why plants that are brought in for the winter often shed some or all of their leaves.

The spider plant that was doing so well in a covered porch during the summer is now looking sad and some of the leaves are turning brown. This is not unusual and there are many reasons why this is happening to your plants.

Environmental changes such as temperature, light, humidity and water will

have definite effects on your plants when they are moved inside your house. To start, we tend to keep our houses at a lower temperature and humidity level than it is outside in the summer. Secondly, the amount of light is reduced due to shorter days and more indirect light inside, even if you place them in a south facing window. If you are placing your plants on a windowsill, make sure it’s not getting a cold draft. Reduce watering! Because your plants are slowing their rate of growth during this time, they won’t need as much water as they did in the summer. The type of pot you use is also a factor when watering. Plastic pots will hold water longer, while clay pots will dry out faster.

So check your soil before watering.

Give your plants some time to adapt to their new environment, and remember that the days will start getting longer very soon!

If you’re looking to add to your collection of plants, we have some colourful coleus plants and ivies at the Kemptville Campus Greenhouse. These plants do not need bright light, so they are perfect as houseplants at this time of year. The bonus is that you can then use them in the spring to brighten up your gardens!

For any questions please email editor@ngtimes.ca

A Bunch of People and Moovies bring you a Carol Sing and Movie – It’s a Wonderful Life

so both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages will be for sale.

Wishing you a Safe Merry Christmas

As a thank you to all their supporters, A Bunch of People Arts and Events and the North Dundas Movie Committee are presenting an evening of Carol Singing and a viewing of the Christmas movie classic: It's a Wonderful Life.

It is at Christmas time each year that A Bunch of People Arts and Events (ABOP) takes their yearly profit and donates it to House of Lazarus. "This will be our 3rd year giving all our profit, made from the year's events, to House of Lazarus," Amanda Burger, President of the Board, said after ABOP's very popular event "True Stories". "We have over $1000 dollars to donate and our Christmas event is going to be awesome," she exclaimed.

Teaming up with the North Dundas Movie Committee, they will be presenting a Carol Sing and Movie

viewing of It's a Wonderful Life, at the Winchester Old Town Hall on Saturday, December 17, 2022 at 7 pm.

The night will start at 7 pm with a carol sing led by Suzanne Millaire and Steve Wilmink, to get everyone in the mood. Traditional Christmas songs will be sung, such as Silent Night, O Little Town of Bethlehem and O Holy night, to name a few; after which the movie will begin. The Old Town Hall holds a liquor license,

As a way of thanking their supporters and providing local affordable Christmas fun, this is a Pay What You Can event. Seats must be reserved. To reserve your seats email: abunchofpeopleartsandevents@gmail. com or call 613 346-5064

A Bunch of People Arts and Events is a not-for-profit corporation headquartered in rural Ontario (Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry, in Eastern Ontario). Working with experienced & amateur physical, musical & visual artists, we help organize artistic and/or entertaining events to help raise money for charity.

"Moovies" are run by the North Dundas Movie Committee, a non-profit volunteer group committed to providing an affordable movie going experience to the residents of North Dundas.

A stunning photo of the CP Holiday Train passing through the Boundary Road railway crossing in Mountain on November 23. This photo was the winner of a CTV News “photo of the day” contest. Photo by Calvin Corrigan

Food banks receive donation from Highway 43 Car Club

sponsorship money this year, so soon after the COVID-19 pandemic that hurt the bottom lines of many businesses.

The Highway 43 Car Club is one of the biggest car clubs in Eastern Ontario. The Club operates very informally, with no “cut off date” governing which car model years are welcome to be included. This year, instead of holding car show events, the Club visited area long term care homes. “They get a thrill from seeing some of the old cars,” Kevan said. “It brings back memories.” The Club also regularly thanks local sponsors by bringing a few cars for a mini event at their business location.

nificant rises in the cost of food, and the economic uncertainty faced by many households. Food banks work to ensure that no one goes hungry, by providing free grocery packages on a recurring basis to individuals and families in need. In order to operate, food banks rely on donations from those with the means to give.

To learn more about the Highway 43 Car Club, visit https://hwy43carclub.com/ index.php/en/. More information about the Salvation Army can be found at https://salvationarmy.ca/, while those who want to learn more about the Community Food Share should visit https://www.communityfoodshare.ca/.

by Brandon Mayer

A local car club is continuing its tradition this year of donating money to worthy causes. The Highway 43 Car Club, based out of North Grenville, has decided to give donations to local food banks in Kemptville and Winchester this year.

“We like to donate some money, we’ve done it over the years,” said Kevan Whittaker, Vice President of the Club. Known for holding a Cruise Night every Friday at the Kemptville Food Basics, the Highway 43 Car Club

has been going strong for over 10 years.

The Car Club is as charitable as can be, often raising money through fundraisers and sponsorship, and then donating it to worthy causes. This year, $250 will be donated to the Salvation Army Food Bank in Kemptville, and another $250 will benefit the North Dundas community through a donation to the Community Food Share. The $500 will surely be welcomed by the beneficiaries, though it is not as high as what the Car Club has been able to donate in previous years. The Club

was shuttered during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, meaning there was no fundraising or sponsorship money coming in, resulting in less money in the Club’s bank account now.

“We’re starting off at the bottom of the ladder again,” Kevan added. This year, the Club has a new President, Mike Lecuyer, and along with Kevan, the pair has taken on the reigns of the Club and endeavored to keep the sprit of the Club going strong. Kevan was pleasantly surprised at the number of local businesses that were willing to provide

Donations to food banks are popular at this time of year, and are particularly welcome in light of sig-

Members of the Highway 43 Car Club present a $250 donation to the Kemptville Salvation Army Food Bank. L-R Ron Wyman, Mike Lecuyer, Barry Willkins, Calvin Wong, Terri Brugmans, Willy Wyman, Kevan Whittaker, Joe Segreto, Brian Wallace

Young and Young At Heart looking to fundraise

about YAYAH and looking forward to getting it up and running!”

by Brandon Mayer

A local not-for-profit with big ideas and a big heart is hoping for some fundraising support from the community. Young And Young At Heart (YAYAH) is a non-profit start-up organization currently working on getting off the ground. Started by Danielle Prince, the organization is incorporated, and the next steps are being taken to make it a charitable non profit. YAYAH currently has a board of three people, consisting of Danielle, Anja Berends, and Erin O’Farrell.

“We would like to get everything organized and flawless before we launch,” said Danielle. “YAYAH is designed to connect the young with

the young at heart through mail. When you sign up for YAYAH, you will fill out a questionnaire and we will pair you with someone with similar interests. This way you have lots to talk about.”

Those who sign up will receive a package containing cards, envelopes and stamps, along with some other fun items. “Our hope for YAYAH is to add some excitement to the in-between holiday months that feel a little long sometimes,” Danielle added. “We also hope this will show our young the importance of connecting with the young at heart, all while allowing the creativity to take over. All mail will be sent to the YAYAH PO box where we will send it on its way to its final destination. This is so we can monitor who is sending/receiving the mail. We are very excited

Danielle was inspired to create YAYAH by the worry many people have about who will visit them when they grow old. “When I brought my idea up with my neighbor and now board member Anja Berends, she was over the moon excited about it,” said Danielle. Anja revealed in a conversation with Danielle that when the COVID-19 pandemic first set in, she reached out to Dundas Manor in Winchester to ask if any residents seemed lonely. When the news came back that there were eight such residents, Anja was shocked. She wrote them letters, and soon heard back from the Manor that they loved them.

It didn’t take long for the ball to get rolling for YAYAH. Danielle has contacted Judy Sauve about making some cards to put in the welcome packages. “She makes beautiful handcrafted cards,” said Danielle. “When I told her what they were for, she gave me a steep discount on them. I was very thankful and she told me it was her pleasure because it was for a good cause.” Others have offered to donate their time as well, and Danielle knows that the community support for YAYAH will continue to be strong.

Now, Danielle needs to focus on fundraising, particularly to help with lawyer fees. Her family has been

generous with donations so far, but she is hoping for help from the community as well. Danielle has set a $10,000 fundraising goal, with most going to lawyer fees, and the rest helping out with welcome packages. Donations toward the packages are also appreciated. Needed items include envelopes, pens, paper, markers, crayons, and stickers. Danielle has already kicked off the fundraising. “I have made some artistic stainless steel wall flowers I hope to sell, and all profit will go towards YAYAH,” she said. “Anja is also extremely crafty and will sell items to help support YAYAH as well.”

Children can also be encouraged to provide support for YAYAH, and Danielle has made an important observation with her own 2.5 year old son. “I've noticed when I ask my son to draw a picture, he'll scribble a few lines on a page and then run off and play with something else, but when I tell him it's for someone, he gets excited and will cover the whole page with all different colours and tell me exactly what he is drawing,” said Danielle. “Kids love to have a purpose for their drawings.” There is potential for children to learn from the experience as well, particularly when it comes to writing and mailing letters.

To help out YAYAH, you can get in touch via email at yayah.nfp@gmail.com.

October child exploitation numbers shared by 27 police services

Numbers continue to increase as 121 children identified, 107 people charged

Hundreds of charges have been laid across Ontario, a snapshot of the work done by investigators and analysts that make up the Provincial Strategy to Protect Children from Sexual Abuse and Exploitation on the Internet (Provincial Strategy).

The results of the investigations completed in October, named Project MAVERICK, were announced in a video release showcasing members of the Provincial Strategy. During the month, the 27 policing partners conducted 255 investigations, completed 168 search warrants and seized 1,032 devices. In total, 428 charges

Dianne Margaret Harkin (Hampton)

paths and been an example to women of all generations. She wrote as a journalist on topics concerning farm women, local politics and more. Her written stories of life on the farm have left others laughing along with her, and relating to the situations farm life throws at you.

Dianne passed away peacefully at home, on Saturday, November 26, 2022, surrounded by her immediate family. At a final family dinner, she was smiling and laughing with family, surrounded in the love and mayhem of great-grandchildren all around her. She loved those moments the most. Above all, she was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, great-grandmother and friend to many.

Dianne was an energetic, vivacious woman. She loved people! Dianne was a supportive person to all who surrounded her.

She loved gardening, painting, feeding huge tables of relatives after a long day of haying, and loving every single person who crossed her path.

Dianne is one of the first recipients of the “Order of Ontario”, for her work with farm women. She was also awarded an Honourary P.Ag. degree, for the same. More recently, she was inducted into the “Dundas Agricultural Hall of Fame”; followed shortly afterwards, by induction into the “Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame”.

Dianne is pre-deceased by her husband Daniel (Dan) and brother Fraser (Buddy).

were laid against 107 people. During the investigations, 61 victims were identified and referred to appropriate community-based resources for assistance, while an additional 60 children were safeguarded. There are 175 ongoing investigations where additional charges may be laid.

The Provincial Strategy includes two ministries (Attorney General and Solicitor General) and 27 participating police agencies: Barrie, Belleville, Brantford, Chatham-Kent, Cornwall, Durham, Greater Sudbury, Guelph, Halton, Hamilton, Kingston, London, Niagara, North Bay, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Ottawa, Peel, Peterborough, Sarnia, Sault Ste. Marie, Thunder

Bay, Timmins, Toronto, Waterloo, Windsor, Woodstock and York.

Additional partners that participated in these investigations included OPP Digital Forensics, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Canada Border Services Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security. The BOOST Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, the Children's Aid Society and the Canadian Centre for Child Protection provided victims' support and education.

Since the Provincial Strategy began in 2006, it has completed 65,564 investigations and laid 24,608 charges against 6,540 people. A total of 3,470 victims have been identified worldwide.

The video outlining the investigation is available on Twitter (@OPP_News), Facebook (@ontarioprovincialpolice) and youtu. be/S7SzSSlRmLk. A full list of charges for Project MAVERICK is included in the Addendum of Charged Persons that can be found on opp.ca/news/#/mediakit.

The investigations continue and anyone with information on these or any child exploitation investigations are asked to contact their local police. Report any instances of online child abuse to police or cybertip.ca. If a child is being harmed, call 9-1-1.

When the family moved from suburbia to the country farm, she quickly identified a need to assist farm women. She gathered likeminded farm women and started “Women for the Survival of Agricultural” in Canada. She and her organization changed legislation and tax laws for not only farm women, but family farms in general. They started the process of opening the first rural women’s shelter (Naomi’sWinchester) and held the First National Farm Women’s conference, gathering farm women from all over Canada and many different organizations, to work as one and network. They started short educational courses for farm women, on topics that THEY wanted to learn about.

Above all, Dianne was a storyteller. She was able to find the humorous side of any situation, even crisis. Living on the farm, there were always different levels of crisis happening. Dianne has led the way, forged new

She leaves behind her Brother Richard (Dick) [Doreen Hampton], Sisters Maureen (Reenie) [Gerry Doris] and Laurel [Alun Hibbertdeceased]. Daughter Laurie [Jacques Chiasson-deceased], Son John [Darice Cochrane]. Grandchildren Cheryl, Erin [Wayne Brewer] and Rebecca (Becky). Plus, Great-Grandchildren Abbygale (Abby), Victoria, Summer, Chloe and Cruz.

Her youngest sister Laurel summed it up beautifully:

“You have accomplished so many things that ordinary people never manage to do in their lives. You made life better for farm women. You created a space of safety for abused women. The outside world noticed how very special you are as a person. You have been given awards and will remain a person of importance to our country, long after you leave us. You wrote a blooming book!”

We are all sure she will be continuing to support her friends and family, from beyond. It is just who she is.

A “Celebration of Life” will be held at a later date.

PART TIME CUSTODIAN WANTED

Chesterville Legion is looking for a part time custodian for the Legion, starting in January 2023. The position is responsible for general cleaning duties inside the Legion, including vacuuming and mopping weekly, setting up/taking down tables and chairs for functions, and other custodial duties as required. The work requires an average of 10 hours per week and the starting salary will be dependent upon experience.

Please drop off resumes at the Legion (Wednesday through Saturday afternoons) or email to legion434@ eastlink.ca

LOCAL GUITAR TEACHER

with 22 years teaching and performing experience offering online hour long lessons. $50 per hour.

All styles. Beginner to Advanced. Makes a great Christmas Gift To book your lessons or for more info, contact: jeffhagerman@hotmail.com

The Food Corner

by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville

Most of us think of chocolate as a sweet treat and chicken legs as a main meal, but our neighbours in Mexico have combined both. Not only is Mexican chocolate a special treat if you ever get to try it, but used as a taste enhancer for chicken, it become sensational. Today’s recipe, Chicken Mole (meaning chicken “with sauce”) describes how to do a (really) quick version of this great dish. Try it: you’ll like it, particularly with a bold red Zinfandel wine.

Chicken Mole Cutlets (for 4)

2 pounds or 1 kilogram of chicken thighs, skin off and washed

1 large, chopped onion, red or Vidalia

1 cup of salsa (Tostitos works just fine)

½ cup of Nutella (or make your own chocolate-hazelnut spread)

1 tablespoon of olive oil

3 cloves of finely chopped garlic or 3 teaspoons of minced garlic

2 teaspoons of chili powder

1 cup of chicken broth

¼ cup of chopped shallots, scallions or chives for topping

Kosher salt

Preparation

Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven on medium heat

Add the onion, garlic and chili powder and sweat until softened

Stir in the salsa and the chicken broth; then stir in the Nutella

Sprinkle the chicken with just a bit of kosher salt and place in the pot

Lower the heat and simmer gently until the chicken is done through

Serve the chicken on a bed of “yellow” rice, i.e., cooked rice to which you have added a teaspoon each of saffron and turmeric. What’s really nice is if you take out a really large serving dish, spread the rice as a base, place the chicken on top and sprinkle the whole shebang with the topping you have selected. Don’t forget the Zinfandel, and maybe add a basket of warmed up tea biscuits from Grahame’s. Of course, you can be preparing the vegetable(s) of your choice in the meantime to coordinate with the Chicken Mole. By the way, you might try this recipe, and if you like it, you might then decide to try the more involved recipes for Chicken Mole. Just go on line and give it a whirl. I sincerely hope you’ll enjoy this one!

Cheers from Paul at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

ACROSS

Family dismissed from Habitat for Humanity home

ter and septic concerns, Taggart explained that all Habitat homes must meet all relevant building codes before a family can move in.

“The septic and well were inspected when the donation was made, and the well water quality will be tested now that the water is running in the house,” she said. “Water quality testing is a normal test that anyone on a well would have to do throughout the year.”

Reflections on the Canadian Community Mental Health Report

hours already contributed by the former recipient family will not be compensated for by Habitat. The new family that will purchase the Winchester Springs home will have to put in their own 500 hour volunteer down-payment.

Taggart did not give a specific time-line on when the new family for the home will be selected.

by Phillip Blancher, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter originally published

in The Morrisburg Leader

When Zach Rumohr and Taylor Boisvert were told they were the successful applicants for the latest Habitat for Humanity build this spring, they could not believe they had been chosen. Seven months later, the family of six is without the home they helped build, and wish they had not been chosen. In early October the family was told their application with the Habitat for Humanity Cornwall and Counties organization had been terminated.

“I had a call scheduled to arrange my last 27 hours of volunteering, and instead a guy was telling me that we’re out of the program,” Rumohr told The Leader. “We were blind-sided.”

The project build, the latest for the organization, broke ground in late April in Winchester Springs on land donated by the Municipality of South Dundas. The property was the site of a former one room school house turned recreation hall that had been demolished a few years earlier. The well and septic system were kept for future use which made the site an attractive location for the Habitat for Humanity build. It was also Rumohr’s main concern with the build.

“I asked if the well and septic were tested and was told that was my responsibility once we owned the property,” he explained. “I kept asking about this because we are buying the house and that’s part of the process.”

The dispute between the family and the organization had been brewing for a few months, as Rumohr said he had been

asking questions about the project and not getting answers. In one instance, it took three weeks to find out why a closet size had been changed. Another involved the selection of the propane supplier and why the family’s choice for a vendor was disregarded.

“We only got two choices in the house build, the colour of the walls and what propane company we wanted to deal with. So I asked questions and that was not what you’re suppose to do,” he explained. “I called them out because I wanted to know. [Habitat] claimed I was harassing them and being uncooperative.”

The organization confirmed that the local Habitat for Humanity board voted to terminate the family’s application on October 6.

Leigh Taggart, executive director of the Habitat chapter based in Cornwall, said the organization is committed to providing safe and affordable housing for low income families, and that they work closely with applicant families throughout the home ownership process.

“Applicants to the program are clear about the obligations of the partnership and work together with us to be successful,” she said. “Unfortunately, because of ongoing concerns that could not be resolved, Habitat Cornwall and the Counties made the decision to terminate the application of the family to the home-ownership program. It has been a difficult decision, but one we are confident is correct.”

Taggart said it is rare that an application is terminated in the middle of a build, and that she has not seen it happen in her 11 years with the organization.

Addressing the wa-

When asked if any mediation or discussion to resolve the issues between the family and the Habitat chapter occurred, Taggart said she could not comment “to protect the privacy of the applicants.”

“There was no attempt to work this out. I asked,” Rumohr said. “When I was told we’re out, they said to send any questions by email. That’s it.”

Habitat is currently searching for a new family to take over the house, which is set to be completed at the end of November. The organization is undergoing a targeted campaign with community agencies, banks, churches, schools, and other groups to recruit a family. A tour for donors took place on November 17.

Two specific donations were found by the family during their involvement in the build. Taggart said one donor asked for their donation back, the other said to apply the donation to the current project.

“We are honouring their wishes in both circumstances,” she said.

Habitat for Humanity home ownership projects provide a newly-constructed home with the organization holding a 30-year no interest mortgage for the owners. As a down-payment, the recipient family needs to provide 500 hours of “Sweat Equity” through volunteering. The 473

by Brandon Mayer

A new report has been launched on behalf of community-based mental health organizations from across the country. The Mood Disorders Society of Canada (MDSC) is responsible for the Canadian Community Mental Health Organizations Roundtable Report, with findings that can help inform our understanding of mental health treatment in Canada and locally.

The Rumohr-Boisvert family, Zach, Taylor, and their four kids (Marissa, Zoe, Octavia, and Lincoln), remain in transitional housing and are working with the House of Lazarus on a new solution to their housing issues.

“The House of Lazarus has been really helpful through this,” Rumohr said. “This is a set back, but without their help we would be in a real mess.”

Rumohr said that the family is working with the HOL’s mentoring services, along with friends and family, to get back on the path to home ownership in a year or two. Still, they are disappointed and upset with how this has turned out.

“My oldest (Marissa, 6) took it really hard when I told her,” he said. “I promised her three years ago we’d get a house of our own. I reminded her about it, and explained what happened. She’s pretty smart. I told her we have a different plan but we’ll still have a house of our own. It will just take a bit longer.”

Nearly two months after their purchase of Habitat home was terminated, the family is trying to take a positive outlook.

“We’re just glad now that we’re not part of it now,” Rumohr said.

The Winchester Springs project is the 17th Habitatbuild located in Cornwall and SDG Counties and the third located in South Dundas. The local Habitat for Humanity chapter was founded in 1998.

The report is based on consultations with 48 communitybased mental health organizations. Part of its purpose is to detail the challenges these groups face in their daily work, particularly when it comes to funding and staffing issues. Also included in the report are recommendations intended to address these issues. One such recommendation is for specific funding to be allocated to community mental health organizations to address the core funding issues that most of these organizations face. Other recommendations include integrating these organizations into the broader health system, allowing for more collaboration between mental health professionals and medical professionals.

I have no shame in admitting that I am unqualified to comment on the merits of this report’s findings. Yes, I have a graduate level education in mental health counselling, but I don’t pretend to know more about the field than the high level professionals whose primary responsibilities involve researching mental health best practices. I do however, have observations as someone who has seen people struggle to access mental health services.

I have known people who, in absolute desperation, visit a local hospital to access mental health services, only to wait days to speak to a crisis team who ultimately blows them off. I have had more people than I can count on two hands and two feet ask me, upon learning of my mental health education, where the best “place to start” is when it comes to accessing mental health services for themselves or a loved one. When I was a student completing my placement as a counsellor, my placement teacher and I felt compelled to call a crisis line for immediate assistance for a suicidal client, only to have him not taken seriously on the phone. We were shocked that as two mental health professionals calling, our client still wasn’t taken seriously. We gave up and called an ambulance, though it is doubtful that that arrangement helped any more than the crisis line call.

Lack of funding is absolutely a huge piece of the puzzle. Mental health education is expensive (mine cost about $60,000), and the professionals who work in the field expect to be paid fairly for their work. However, funding is not the whole story. The mental health field is disorganized and confusing. Some service providers such as psychologists are far more expensive because of their experience and diagnosing abilities, while others such as psychotherapists and counsellors are less costly, but offer a different range of services. Some service providers are covered by private insurance plans, while others are not. Psychiatrists are covered under OHIP, but require a lengthy referral. Crisis lines are often a hit-or-miss in terms of the help provided, and there are many to choose from. Hospitals can provide psychiatric services, but they are understaffed, and many complain about the service provided. The police will respond to a crisis situation if requested, but officers typically lack the proper training to help. These options are utterly confusing for someone already in a difficult mental state!

If I suddenly come down with the symptoms of a heart attack and fear I may have minutes to live, my next move is clear. I have one viable option, which is to pick up a phone and dial 9-1-1. What happens next will also be clear – an ambulance will come, paramedics will provide primary care, and I will be taken to a nearby hospital and triaged with high priority. In a similarly dangerous situation, if I am holding a knife to myself, the options at my disposal are far less clear. In fact, there are precisely seven options in my non-exhaustive list above. Even more worrisome is that countless anecdotal reports suggest that some options may be a gamble, in the sense that the service quality is poor.

When it comes to mental health both locally and nationally, I propose that it is time for the powers that be to organize mental healthcare into a more uniform system. Yes, this will require additional funding, but money is not the only component required. This is a problem that will also require brains. Only time will tell if our politicians are properly equipped.

Taylor Boisvert, Zach Rumohr, and their children (Lincoln, Octavia, Marissa, and Zoe) spend a moment together with a family member before the ceremonial ground breaking for the Habitat project on April 27

Parade of Lights another great success

What a wonderful world if people could be as generous to humankind as dogs. Regardless of our faults, dogs provide unfailing loving care. A new study suggests dogs may be able to use their sniffing powers to know when someone is having a really bad day.

Who knew there is an aroma to being stressed, but dogs seem to detect it. In this, they have a huge advantage over humans. The nose of a dog has 220 million smell cells compared to a meagre 5 million in humans.

by Brandon Mayer

For long time fans of the North Dundas Parade of Lights, it will come as no surprise that this year’s Parade was a great success. This year saw the return of a traditional parade, with spectators lining the streets of Winchester, and stunning floats rolling by.

The Parades in 2020 and 2021 were not cancelled, but were rather re-

branded as the North Dundas “Display” of Lights because of concerns regarding the spread of infection during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Display of Lights had stationary floats set up, with cars slowly driving through the display to take in the festive lights. The 2020 Display took place in Winchester, while in 2021, it was hosted at the South Mountain Fairgrounds.

As per usual with the annual tradition, there were

other happenings on Parade day as well, including the traditional Fries for Charity fundraiser. The annual Float Contest continued as per usual, with prizes of local treats being awarded to the winners of the eight contest categories. About 50 floats were registered for the Parade in total!

Parade-goers this year were no doubt thrilled about the return to the old tradition. Photos on social media showed beautifully deco-

rated floats and hundreds of people lining the streets of Winchester to watch the Parade. Comments on social media were overwhelmingly positive, showing that the community was more than ready for a return to “normal”.

Cheers to local traditions, and Merry Christmas to all!

Have a magical holiday season without breaking the bank

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

As the holiday season nears, we all search for ways to create special memories for our families, children, and grandchildren while still staying within our budget. It is important to remember that you do not have to “break the bank” to have a good holiday. There are many Holiday activities you can take part in that that cost very little:

• Check out the local Christmas Parade and enjoy the wonder of the season.

• Take a Holiday Lights Tour – you can attend an official one at a cost per car or set your own route. Finish the night off with a cup of homemade hot chocolate and cookies.

• At home movie nights – it is always fun to break out the pjs and popcorn and get cozy on a cold winter night with some Holiday Classics.

• A Visit to Santa – many local markets feature a Santa your family can see without the need to brave the busy mall

• Family Baking – enjoy a day baking Christmas Treats. This is not only budget friendly, but it is also a fun activity where life skills can be incorporated. There are many budget-friendly gift ideas that can bring joy to those you love:

• Homemade presents – if you are artistic or fantastic in the kitchen, consider making something for the people on your list

• RESPs – if you have grandkids/nieces or nephews and they have or get everything they need, consider contributing to their Registered Education Savings Plan

Be sure to remember these budget tips when planning your holiday shopping:

• Prioritize the wish list – it isn’t necessary to buy everything on someone’s wish list – make sure to manage their expectations.

• Start your holiday shopping early. You can budget a small amount every month so that you are not

looking at a big bill in December or January

• Shop for sales – Black Friday and Cyber Monday can be a budget shoppers dream.

• Pay in cash – this will help to not rack up the credit cards and, in turn, credit card interest

Remember, Holiday Memories are made up of the fun things we do and the people we spend our time with. This is what makes the season so special. I wish you all a very Happy Holiday.

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.

The powerful sniffers of dogs have long been effective in detecting cancer. A report years ago in the British Journal Lancet reported that a woman’s dog repeatedly sniffed at one mole on her thigh but ignored others. When wearing shorts, her dog had tried to bite off the mole! She presented the issue to her doctor. The diagnosis was a malignant melanoma.

We now know that cancers contain alkanes and benzene derivates which are not present in healthy tissue. Scientists have shown dogs can detect either a single chemical or a combination of them.

Bloodhounds have a reputation as the best in tracking down criminals. But other breeds, like poodles, are suited for medical careers. Studies show that dogs are right 99 percent of the time in diagnosing cancer. Another study showed that dermatologists and plastic surgeons were right just 66 percent of the time!

Clara Wilson, a doctoral student at Queen’s University, Belfast, School of Psychology, is one of the authors of a new fascinating experiment. She set out to learn if your dog, or in fact anyone’s dog, could smell your level of stress.

Wilson collected samples of sweat and breath from 36 people before and after they faced a difficult math problem – with a time difference of just 4 minutes. Apparently these people were not mathematicians, as the numerical test induced a faster heart rate and raised blood pressure. Four dogs trained in selecting scents from a line-up were then put to the task. The dogs accurately identified the samples taken from “stressed” participants, ignoring the “relaxed” samples from the same person.

“The research highlights that dogs do not need visual or audio cues to pick up on human stress,” Wilson explains. “Dogs can smell stress from breath and sweat alone, which could be useful when training service dogs and therapy dogs.”

We know that dogs can offer great psychological support to people afflicted with anxiety problems. They also help those recovering from a traumatic injury.

But there are times, such as the death of a loved one, when the degree of stress in a dog’s brain is overwhelmingly apparent. For instance, Dave Ross was a police dog handler who lost his life. His German shepherd, Danny, attended the funeral. It was apparent to all that the dog was whining while lying at the casket.

We don’t know the nature of that German shepherd’s anxiety. But one thing is certain. The dog was not begging for a bone. Man’s best friend was hurting. Future science will dig deeper into the workings of a dog’s nose and brain. The foundation for such work has been laid by pioneering scholars like Marc Bekoff, Professor Emeritus of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Colorado Boulder. His brain imaging work with animals shows evidence of their abilities to feel grief, fear, love, and compassion.

For now, just know that those 200 million cells in the nose of a dog can tell when you are having a bad day.

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

Young hockey players from the North Dundas Demons were proud to be a part of the 2022 Parade of Lights.

Warden Fraser: ‘Any success in SDG is a success for all of SDG'

tion as an incredible place to raise a family, operate a business and enjoy the incredible beauty of rural living.

dertaken without their love and support. Their patience and understanding has been incredible.

Hunger report in our community: 2022

Join Community Food Share, Food Banks United and Feed Ontario as we present the latest Hunger Report and introduce Food Banks UnitedS

Friday, December 2 in the council chambers at the County Administration Building in Cornwall.

The event was attended by members of County Council, local municipal councillors and staff, as well as regional dignitaries and supporters.

Below is a copy of Warden Fraser's inaugural address:

"When I was elected to be a member of the Township of North Dundas Council in 2010 my focus was on supporting all things North Dundas.

The experience and understanding that I gained as the years went on have been so valuable to me. I have a better awareness and firmly believe that, to quote our MP Eric Duncan, “High tides

raise all ships.”

All of our residents, including the agricultural community, those that desire the quiet spaces and solitude, others that live in our small hamlets, villages, and in our towns benefit from the successes achieved by the efforts of SDG staff and County Council.

Members of County Council need to work handin-hand with each other to ensure that the challenges we face in Eastern Ontario are addressed with our local MPPs, MPs, and those members of both the federal and provincial parliaments –when the need arises.

We are all members of two councils, at both the local level and here at the County. Our goal should be to remember that both tiers are linked by the common goal of providing services and programming that make our region the envy of Ontario. We have opportunities to build upon SDG’s reputa-

Challenges we may face require voices that are united in the belief and understanding that any success in SDG is a success for all of SDG. Small successes give energy to achieve larger accomplishments. The next year will afford me the opportunity to address priorities set by the Eastern Ontario Wardens Caucus and together with my fellow members of Council we will have the opportunity to create solutions to the challenges we face in SDG.

While there are some familiar faces returning to the County Council Chambers, we are also looking forward to the fresh perspectives being created by new members of council, and administration. A new Chief Administrative Officer, Maureen Adams, will assume her duties in January, and this, coupled with new councillors, means SDG is embracing the transition from one council to another with vigor and an eye to the future.

I would be remiss if I did not take this opportunity to acknowledge the undying support I have received from my family, including my dear wife Amy as well as my daughter Emma. My journey never would have been un-

Thank you to Bill Smirle for agreeing to be here today to introduce me. Bill has been a mentor to me and for that I thank him as well.

To Councillor Jamie MacDonald and Councillor Frank Landry thank you for moving and seconding my nomination for this position. Thank you to MP Duncan for his support, guidance, leadership and friendship over the years.

Thank you to my friend, Al Armstrong for his unfettered belief that the right things are right and need to be defended. His commitment has been infectious. Thank you to my fellow Councillors and staff, both past and present, lower and upper for being who you are and allowing me to learn and grow from your efforts.

To Alastair Fraser for the invocation, thank you.

Thanks as well to CAO Tim Simpson for piping us in, Clerk Kimberly Casselman, Todd Lihou, and the other SDG staff members that were involved in preparing for this inauguration.

I am overwhelmed by the presence of everyone here today, my sincere thanks to everyone for making the trip to this historic building and participating in this ceremony."

In partnership with Feed Ontario, Community Food Share is hosting a special event where we will present the latest analysis of food bank data, and Food Banks United will provide information about our organization, share our concern with the lack of affordable housing in rural Eastern Ontario.

Date: Friday, December 9, 2022

Time: 11 am

Location: 28 Ottawa Street, Morrisburg ON

Feed Ontario will provide an update of this year’s Hunger Report that includes a feature exploring why it is harder to escape poverty today than ever before which is leading to the rapid increase in food bank use. The report discusses food bank use over the year as well as a comparative analysis of food bank visitation from January 1 to September 30, 2022, with that of previous years.

Food Banks United will share who we are, what we do and share our concern with the lack of affordable housing in rural eastern Ontario. We will also provide an update on our client survey that will be taking place early in the new year.

About Food Banks United

Food Banks United is a collaborative of food banks in Eastern Ontario. Working together to address poverty, making real change in our communities. Our vision for people living in the counties of Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry, Leeds, and Grenville will have a better quality of life with equitable services.

About Feed Ontario and the Hunger Report

From securing fresh and healthy food sources to driving change through policy research and innovative programming, Feed Ontario unites food banks, industry partners, and local communities in its work to end poverty and hunger. Join Feed Ontario and help build a healthier province. Every $1 raised provides the equivalent of 3 meals to an Ontarian facing hunger. Learn more at: www. feedontario.ca.

The Hunger Report is the only comprehensive, province-wide report on hunger and food bank use in Ontario. The report discusses poverty trends and factors driving the continued need for food banks in the province.

Cheques can be sent toRotary club of kemptville box 274. Kemptville ont K0G 1J0 e-Transfers can be sent to ArnpriorRotary@gmail.com Password hint U**e

Warden Tony Fraser has officially been installed as the new head of council for the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry. Warden Fraser's inauguration was held

Warden Tony Fraser is flanked by his wife Amy and his daughter Emma at Friday’s inauguration