ND Times Issue 2 2022 January 26

Hayley Bedford Marketing

Dairyfest is back this year

by Brandon Mayer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The much-missed Winchester Dairyfest will finally be back this year after a two-year hiatus. On January 10, the revitalized Dairyfest Committee held a meeting the primary purpose of which was to answer one burning question – is a 2022 Winchester Dairyfest feasible? Once the Committee came up with a unanimous “yes”, some of the preliminary planning work began.

While there is much to be worked out and decided upon before any details of this year’s festival can be

known with any certainty, some general ideas discussed at the first meeting include having a scaled down event, strictly outdoors, with music and dancing. The event could look something similar to the Township’s Meet Me on Main Street festival, which had been a yearly event locally for several years before the COVID-19 pandemic. The first meeting also looked at the responsibilities for various roles on the Committee, with some roles filled, and others still needing a volunteer to step up to the plate.

Alexandra Donovan has volunteered to act as Chair, and there are many new faces on the Committee, up significantly from last year’s fourmember group. The Times explored some of the history of Dairyfest – including what caused the two-year hiatus –in the August 11 issue of last year. Although 2020 was the

first year without a Dairyfest since the festival was started as a centennial celebration for Winchester in 1988, the COVID-19 pandemic did not cause the cancellation of that year’s festival. A dwindling number of volunteers caused the cancellation of the 2020 event, which is run entirely by people donating their time. The 2021 festival was subsequently cancelled partially for the same reason, and partially because the remaining Committee members did not feel it would be appropriate to ask for sponsorship from struggling local businesses during the pandemic. However, the Committee did put on a few smaller scale activities last summer to keep the spirit of the event alive. The Committee members, and, in fact, members of the North Dundas community more generally, have much work cut out for them before

this year’s Dairyfest can become a reality.

Community members are being asked to voice their opinions regarding aspects of the event, such as where it should be held. To follow this discussion and contribute your own ideas, visit the Winchester Dairyfest Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ winchesterdairyfest. Anyone wishing to help make sure that this year’s Dairyfest is a success by providing sponsorship (either as a business, or as an individual), should contact Committee Sponsorship Coordinator, Hayley Bedford, by phone at 343-777-2702, or by email at hayleyjbedford@ icloud.com. Those wishing to help out by volunteering their time, or in any other way, can get in touch with the Committee by email at info@ winchesterdairyfest.com.

A banner year for the Sisters for Life – we are so grateful

by Jane Adams

The Sisters for Life team has been fundraising to fight cancer since 2013 – and 2021 was their biggest year yet! Despite COVID-19, the energetic team continued fundraising, holding online raffles and auctions, participating in the Canadian Cancer Society virtual Relay for Life, and more. This year’s campaign also included a matching gift campaign with an anonymous

donor who is a long-time resident of South Stormont.

The final tally is in, and the Sisters for Life team recently announced that they raised $35,521.85 for cancer care in 2021! The WDMH Foundation is honoured to be receiving $16,135.93 for the Digital Mammography Fund.

“We keep saying WOW, and we are saying it again,” notes Justine Plummer, Manager of Direct Mail & Events

at the Foundation. “This is an amazing team doing wonderful work, and we are so grateful for their support of WDMH’s cancer program. Thank you, as well, to everyone who has participated in their fun and creative events.

And a special thank you to our anonymous matching donor!”

“Our team members share a drive to fight cancer, and this will to fight is fuelled by our amazing supportive

community,” adds organizer Maureen Robertson.

The Sisters say they have a great time planning events that celebrate life, bringing together a community of friends and family who love to connect and have fun. Purpose, comradery, and joy earmark every gathering, and those that attend create memories that last a lifetime. Since 2013, they have raised $200,192.37!

COVID-19 hospitalizations reach a peak in Ontario

by Brandon Mayer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Despite hope that the Omicron variant would provide an end to the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitalizations from the virus rose sharply in the past two weeks, at one point reaching their highest levels since the pandemic began.

A North Grenville resident reached out to the Times to ask some tough questions about the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations in the province, and whether these numbers are consistent with the claim that the province does not have enough nurses and doctors to care for the influx of COVID-19 patients.

The man, who wished to remain anonymous, presented the Times with some numbers he had calculated using data from Statistics Canada. A calculation was done using data that was updated on January 13.

As of that date, 3,630 people in Ontario were hospitalized with COVID-19, with 481 of these people in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). It is difficult to obtain an accurate number of hospitals in Ontario, since many statistics include “hospital establishments”, rather than just true hospitals, and when there are several hospitals in the same system – such as with the Ottawa hospital – they are typically lumped in as

one. An approximate number is 250 hospitals, leaving an average of about 14 COVID-19 patients per hospital, with approximately two in each hospital in the ICU. These numbers seem low, and indeed raise questions about why patients and nurses cannot be moved around to help reduce the burden on Ontario’s health care system.

But the numbers also call into question whether Ontario’s hospitals were properly staffed, even before the pandemic. Several months ago, dozens of nurses were fired from several hospitals in Ontario as they refused to get a COVID-19 vaccination. This move is now hitting

Ontario’s hospitals hard, causing Health Minister, Christine Elliott, to announce earlier in January that internationally-trained nurses would be brought in to help with the staffing shortage. There are also unconfirmed reports that the Ontario government is considering forcing hospitals in the province to re-hire fired unvaccinated nurses.

Nursing is undoubtedly an in-demand profession, and the pandemic has produced many lessons about the province’s lack of preparedness for anything other than normal operations. The local resident who spoke with the Times commented that, “The easi-

est thing to do in a situation that is going south for the political parties is to blame someone or something else, [and] right now that’s the unvaccinated.”

Measures and restrictions continue to evolve and change frequently, and it is increasingly unclear which methods are best to control the pandemic. The situation has begun to level

off, with cases of the virus slowly decreasing, and hospitalizations remaining steady. Ontario Premier Doug Ford has announced three key re-opening dates (one each in later January, February, and March) on which restrictions will be progressively eased. However, this plan will depend on the course of the virus, as usual.

Rural Education Symposium

The United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry will host a rural education symposium "Education Equity for Rural Students" on February 3, 2022, highlighting important issues facing rural education throughout Ontario.

Informative presentations will be delivered in English to address details and recommendations contained in a recently completed report entitled “Improving Rural Education in Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry”, which was prepared by Horizon Educational Consultants of Ottawa.

This free event will be held virtually via Zoom and livestreamed on SDG's YouTube channel, starting at 9 a.m. and wrapping up at 12:30 p.m.

“We encourage everyone interested in education for our children to take this opportunity to find out more and advocate for the changes necessary to ensure that Ontario’s educational system is equitable for all students,” said United Counties of SDG CAO Tim Simpson.

Following the presentations, Paul Bennett, author and Director of the Schoolhouse Institute and Adjunct Professor of Education at Dalhousie University, will provide a keynote address highlighting rural education issues. The day will conclude with a roundtable discussion involving the presenters and keynote speaker. Erik Lockhart of Queen’s University will moderate the session.

SYMPOSIUM AGENDA:

9:00 – 9:15 a.m. - Opening remarks - Warden Carma Williams, United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry and Erik Lockhart, Queen’s University

9:15 – 9:45 a.m. – “Improving Rural Education” presented by SDG Counties Councillor Kirsten Gardner and Stephanie Jaworski

9:45 – 10:15 a.m. – "Exploring the Social and Economic Impact of Schools in Small Ontario Communities - A Research Report from the Community Schools Alliance” and “2018 Ontario Pupil Accommodation Review Guideline” presented by Marcus Ryan and Doug Reycraft of the Community Schools Alliance

10:15 – 10:30 a.m. – Break

10:30 – 11:00 a.m. – “Rural Education Task Force: A Conversation About Rural Schools” presented by Arlene Morell of the Thames Valley District School Board

11:00 – 11:45 a.m. – Keynote address "Pathway to Community Revitalization: School Closures, Rural Resistance and the Promise of Community Hub Schools” presented by Paul Bennett, Director of the Schoolhouse Institute and Adjunct Professor of Education at Saint Mary’s University

11:45 a.m. – 12:20 p.m. – Roundtable discussion and session wrap up facilitated by Erik Lockhart of Queen's University

12:30 p.m. - Closing remarks from Warden Carma Williams.

There are two links you can use to register: bit. ly/3raYzBm and us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/ WN_4qEnsNh8SFCrnZaZoLM9ZQ.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Symposium.

OPP report on the winter storm

Officers from all across East Region were very busy with calls for service due to a major winter storm that buried the region in snow starting Sunday, January 16, 2022.

The storm caused major disruption on our roadways and neighbourhoods. Officers responded to many collisions, traffic hazards and disabled vehicles.

247 Motor Vehicle Collision were reported, with the busiest period being from 6 am-11:59 am on January 17, where 139 (56 %) of the total collisions were reported. 11 of the collision reported had reports of people injured and sadly 2 collision reported were fatal collisions.

OPP officers from across East Region also responded to 139 Traffic Hazards as well.

The East Region OPP would like to thank all community partners for their dedication and hard work during this massive storm. The excellent service provided by local volunteer fire fighters, EMS, Hydro, tow operators, dispatchers and township employees did not go unnoticed.

Applications now open for Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program

Eligible businesses required to close, or reduce capacity, due to the current public health measures put in place to blunt the spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 can apply for the new Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program starting today. Through the new program, the government will provide eligible businesses with a rebate payment of up to 100% for property tax and energy costs they incur while subject to these restrictions.

“We recognize that these necessary public health measures are impacting businesses, and as we have been since the beginning of the pandemic, we are there to support them,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance. “With the opening of applications for this new rebate program, our government is putting money directly into the hands of impacted businesses during this critical time.”

Eligible businesses required to close for indoor activities, such as restaurants and gyms, will receive a rebate payment equivalent to 100% of their costs. Those required to reduce capacity to 50%, such as smaller retail stores, will receive a rebate payment equivalent to 50% of their costs. Businesses will be required to submit proof of costs associated with property tax and energy bills as part

of the application process. All eligible businesses must submit an application to be considered, including those that received previous COVID-19 support payments. To learn more, including to find a full list of eligible businesses, visit the online application portal at: https://www.app. grants.gov.on.ca/obcrp/#.

“We recognize that these are challenging times for Ontario’s businesses,” said Todd Smith, Minister of Energy. “We are committed to supporting businesses most impacted by the public health measures and this rebate program will provide them with the much needed support on their energy bills.”

“We are prepared to deliver these critical supports to Ontario businesses quickly and seamlessly to ensure they can navigate through these extremely challenging times,” said Ross Romano, Minister of Government and Consumer Services. "This new program will provide substantial relief for many businesses so that they can continue to support our communities as we work together to overcome COVID-19 and its variants.”

The government is also improving cash flows for Ontario businesses by making up to $7.5 billion available through a six-month interestand penalty-free period for Ontario businesses to make

payments for most provincially administered taxes. This penalty and interest-free period started on January 1, 2022. This supports businesses now and provides the flexibility they will need for long-term planning.

The government is also introducing a new COVID-19 Small Business Relief Grant that will give businesses subject to closure under the modified Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen a $10,000 grant. The money will flow to eligible businesses in February. The government’s new Ontario COVID-19 Small Business Relief Grant will also help eligible small businesses that are subject to closures under the modified Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen by providing eligible small businesses with a grant payment of $10,000. Eligible businesses that qualified for the Ontario Small Business Support Grant and that are subject

Problems with ND Council online meetings

by Joselyn Morley

The North Dundas council meetings towards the end of last year were impossible to hear at all online. Minutes of the meetings were posted after they were adopted at the following council meeting. Prior to the pandemic, the township announced they would be acquiring the technology to record and stream the council meetings, similar to that of North Grenville and other municipalities.

When I initially enquired about the technology, I was told that it was being provided by a local company or individual, and that this person was having difficulty in fulfilling the arrangement.

Later in the pandemic, the municipality was able to stream and record the

meetings and broadcast them via the township's YouTube channel. The technology worked well, until they started meeting in person. It is unclear if it was because of the plexiglass providing social distancing, but the meetings were impossible to hear online. This meant not only that council meetings were inaccessible, but that the special meetings were as well.

People can again attend the council meetings.

The person with the most votes in the last municipal election, Theresa Bergeron, was appointed as councillor. Carma Williams was elected as Warden for the 2022 year at Counties' Council. Deputy Mayor Al Armstrong sat as Interim Warden from the time former Warden

to closure under modified Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen will be pre-screened to verify eligibility and may need to provide some additional information but will not need to apply to the new program. Newly established and newly eligible small businesses will need to apply once the application portal opens in the coming weeks. Small businesses that qualify can expect to receive their payment beginning in February.

“Small businesses play a vital role in Ontario’s diverse economy,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “Through the Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program and other vital support programs like the new Ontario COVID-19 Small Business Relief Grant, our government will continue to provide thousands of small businesses with the financial relief they need.”

Prevost was charged in June with sexual assault and child luring.

The township hired a Communications Officer, which is a good thing for the township. Jennifer Westendorp has worked in newspaper and radio, as well as promotions person

for the House of Lazarus in the past. The township has been keeping residents up to date on their website, as well as through Facebook.

Slow train coming

by David Shanahan

Can it be true: are we to be free again to meet and eat and drink and laugh and tell stories and sing songs? The answer is blowing in the wind, whispering hope that the long night is over and the dawn is near. Come together, there's better days shining through. Ring them bells, nobody has to think too much about Desolation Row and the healing has begun on the bright side of the road. it's been a long cold lonely winter, but now peace will come. It seems like years since it's been here.

Just a song before I go. Yes, I can feel it coming in the air tonight... there’s a slow train coming ‘round the bend. There is a light at the end of the tunnel at last, as restrictions and regulations begin to be relaxed, with a glimpse of a happier day ahead. Oh happy day! I can hear music, sweet, sweet music. How sweet it is. Won't you help to sing these

songs of freedom? The times, they are a’changing.

The long and winding road of the last two years seems to be near the end. The walk of life can begin again, and knowing me, knowing you, there’ll be dancing, dancing in the streets. The boys are back in town and everybody’s got a hungry heart, so don‘t stop me now. Good times, bad times, it doesn’t matter any more. Go where you wanna go, do what you want to do, because here comes the sun, and I say it’s all right!

Yesterday was a hard day’s night, but, with a little help from my friends, it’s getting better. We stood like a rock against the wind, and we’re never going back. Tangled up in blue, we sought shelter from the storm, but one of us must know (sooner or later) that we can be heroes, just for one day. Morning has broken.

On the road to find out, how can I tell you? Teach

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor,

The first governmental COVID-related restrictions on access to benefits normally enjoyed by all, were occasioned by health scientist announcements that matters were going to get a whole lot worse before they got better.

The second and third stages of COVID mandates have mainly stemmed from both variants of the virus, as well as a continuing refusal of many citizens to avail themselves of free vaccines widely offered across the country and provinces.

The abject failure of government leaders in both 2nd and 3rd stage restriction mandates has been their political cowardice in aggressively dealing with those who refuse to get themselves vaccinated. Those resisting citizens have become a major cause of the virus’ crippling dominance of our society. Political reluctance to impose progressively more severe

your children well, there’s a bridge over troubled water and all you need is love. And may you stay forever young. Sometimes, all I need is the air that I breathe, so don’t fence me in. Come together, something, whatever gets you through the night into another day, tolling for the searching ones, on their speechless, seeking trail. For the lonesome-hearted lovers with too personal a tale, and for each unharmful, gentle soul misplaced inside a jail. And we gazed upon the chimes of freedom flashing.

It’s only words, and words are all I have, so say the word I'm thinking of. Have you heard the word is love?

The sun is up, the sky is blue, won’t you come out to play? And we'll walk down the avenue in style. And we'll walk down the avenue and we'll smile. And we'll say: “ain't it all worthwhile, when the healing has begun?" Save the last dance for me, I want to celebrate. Sunshine on my

shoulders makes me happy. The plague years are past, how sweet it is.

That’s enough. It would be great to just continue in music and words and poetry, and that is possibly where we all should be going now. What do you do when you feel liberated, chained, lost, found, loved, not wanted? Sing, sing a song, sing out loud, sing it strong. There is nothing that cannot be expressed in music, poetry, lyrics. We have been down so long, it looks like up to me. Hey, mister Tambourine Man: play a song for me. Music hath charms to sooth the savage breast, you know. There is no music in Hell (well, possibly some really Heavy Metal...).

So I say, thank you for the music. Dance me to the end of love. These are the things we need to recapture after isolation, disease, fear, loss and the dreary, grey, fog of covid. Everything is beautiful, in its own way. “Don't you think it's sad living all alone? So don't

Queen's Park Update

financial consequences on individual and corporate citizens who refuse immunization is fueling virus expansion.

Natural leaders, who take action when the enemy is breeching the castle gate, may not last long politically, but they are usually revered for generations to come.

Pat McGahey

Hayley Bedford

Marketing Consultant

Phone:

Last month, experts predicted that the new Omicron variant would rapidly increase cases and overwhelm our health care system if we did not take measures. As a result, our Government instituted new restrictions to blunt or slow the spread of this virus. Hospitalizations quickly rose four-fold to over 4,100 patients in the province earlier this week. With key public health care indicators starting to show signs of improvement, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, released details of its plan to cautiously and gradually ease public health measures. Effective January 31, indoor public settings will be increased to 50 percent for many indoor public settings, including restaurants, bars, and other food or drink establishments without dance facilities, gyms, cinemas, museums, and religious services. Spectator areas for sporting events, concert venues, and theatres will

you think it's time for us to get along?”

Nothing you can do, but you can learn how to be you in time; It's easy.

Yes, this is a crazy collection of words, and no, I’m not stoned, drunk, crazy (well, maybe a little crazy), but if we really are starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel, then maybe we can also see our way to thinking differently, to appreciate the joys, the freedoms, the beauty, the wonder of being able to feel the weight of the past two years fall away. There have been such losses, such sacrifices, such darkness and loneliness. Can we learn from that and decide that he ain’t heavy, he’s my brother?

Let’s look for the beauty, the joy, the creativity that is possible, after the negativity of the past. There’s another collection of words that may be a principle we can live by, one that may improve, not only our own lives, but our communities, the world in

which we live.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. And the God of peace will be with you. To quote another singer, sadly lost: you took the words right out of my mouth. Some people want to fill the world with silly love songs. And what's wrong with that, I'd like to know. And if you get the references, then you can tell everybody this is your song. And if you don’t, what can I say? Sorry.

“And we’ll walk down the avenue again. And we’ll sing all the songs from way back when...When the healing has begun”. [Van Morrison]

be allowed to operate at 50 percent seated capacity or 500 people, whichever is less. Enhanced proof of vaccination and other requirements will continue to apply in existing settings. Complete details, including the next steps planned for February 21 and March 14, are available at www. Ontario.ca.

Students were welcomed back this week to in-person learning, with the Government pulling together resources to ensure schools are safe as possible. Among our measures, we have sent more than 3.9 million rapid antigen tests (RAT) to school boards to help protect students and staff. Unfortunately, these tests are being rationed to our highest priority groups since only six million of our January 64 million commitment has been received from the Federal Government. We have also completed the delivery of 9.1 million non-fitted N95 masks for staff and over four million three-ply masks for students. My

website provides more information: https://jimmcdonellmpp.ca/ under the January 17th latest news.

With many businesses required to close, or reduce, capacity due to the latest public health measures, our Government launched several assistance programs. The Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program will provide eligible businesses with a rebate payment of up to 100% of property tax and energy costs they incurred while subject to these restrictions.

Applications for the program opened on January 18, 2022, and details are available at www.app. grants.gov.on.ca/obcrp/#.

It also established a new COVID-19 Small Business Relief Grant to give businesses subject to closure a $10,000 grant. In February, the money will flow to eligible companies, with applications opening soon. The Government is also improving cash flows by making up to $7.5 billion available

through a six-month interest- and penalty-free period for Ontario businesses to make payments for most provincially administered taxes. This penalty and interest-free period started on January 1, 2022, to support businesses now and provide the flexibility they will need for long-term planning.

Many people have had to stay home during this partial lockdown, requiring more electricity and heating fuels. Therefore, effective Tuesday, January 18, the Government lowered electricity rates for families, small businesses, and farms to the off-peak rate of 8.2 cents per kilowatt-hour for 21 days. The reduced rate will be automatic and not require any action from customers.

Remember to follow public health guidelines, get vaccinated if you have not done so, and stay safe.

Regards, Jim McDonell MPP for StormontDundas-South Glengarry

North Dundas’ Financial Services Professionals

Cynthia Batchelor Financial Advisor

Theresa Bergeron

sworn in as newest Councillor

Sarah Chisholm Financial Advisor

877.989.1997 | OFSI.CA | FUTURE@OFSI.CA

Q&A with Cyndy & Sarah – Registered Disability Savings Plans

by Sarah Chisholm, Financial Advisor, O’Farrell Financial Services

The federal government is currently working on a Disability Inclusion Action Plan, with the goal of improving the lives of Canadians with disabilities. As with any federal initiative, this program will take time to develop and implement. In the meantime, we often have clients asking what investment opportunities are available for those who are living with a disability in Ontario.

What investments are available?

Disability can cover a wide spectrum, and it should be noted that those living with disabilities have access to all the same investment opportunities as everyone else.

Registered Retirement Savings Plans, Education Savings Plans, Tax Free Savings Plans – these accounts should all be reviewed as part of an overall financial strategy. In addition, Canadians living with a disability also have access to the Registered Disability Savings Plan.

Who is eligible for the RDSP?

If a person qualifies for the federal Disability Tax Credit (DTC), is younger than 60, has a social insurance number, and is a resident of Canada, they are likely eligible to open an RDSP.

Why sign up for an RDSP?

The goal of the RDSP is to provide a retirement income for persons with a disability. To reach this goal, the federal government provides grants and bonds for the RDSP. The grant portion correlates with annual contribution amounts and annual income test levels. For example, if your family net income is below $98,040, the first $500 of contribution would receive $1,500 of grant, and the next $1,000 of contribution would receive $2,000 of grant. The maximum lifetime grant is $70,000. The government bond is also income tested, and a beneficiary could receive up to $1,000 per year, or up to a lifetime maximum of $20,000. The grant and bond portions are significant. According to Statistics Canada, in 2017 the Government of Canada paid out $351.6 million in grant and $155million in Bonds into the RDSPs.

What other considerations are there?

The RDSP has age limits. Once grants and bonds are received, there is a 10-year holding period before they can be redeemed without a claw back. The accounts are structured so that grant and bond payments can be received until the end of the year the beneficiary turn 49, and redemptions must begin by the end of the year the beneficiary turns 60. Redemptions are structured based on government calculations, which factor in age, and percentage of government contributions vs. beneficiary contributions.

Does everyone know?

Disabilities are not always obvious. You may have friends or family who already receive the Disability Tax Credit, or could be eligible, but have not yet opened an RDSP. According to Statistics Canada, in 2017 only 32.5% of Ontarians who were eligible for the DTC had an RDSP. Spread the word, you never know who may be eligible. Speak with a Financial Advisor about the RDSP and how it could benefit you or those around you. We welcome questions so please reach out!

In a North Dundas Council meeting lasting nearly three hours on Tuesday, January 18, the first order of business was for the newest member of the Council team – Councillor Theresa Bergeron – to take the oath for her position. Councillor Bergeron took the oath witnessed by the Clerk, and then immediately took her seat at the Council table for her first meeting in her new position.

Councillor Bergeron was chosen to fill the position left after the resignation of Tyler Hoy on December 1 of last year. At the time, Tyler declined to comment on why he was resigning his position, and the Township did not provide a reason in its release on December 2 either. Tyler had served three years on Council at the time of his resignation. He had been the subject of significant controversy in the summer of 2020 after he called the Black Lives Matter social justice movement a “terrorist group” in a comment on social media. For his comment, Tyler received a formal reprimand from Council in a special meeting held on August 24 of that year. No further controversies occurred, and there is no indication that this incident had anything to do with Tyler’s premature departure.

is removed from office, resigns, or dies, the remaining Council members must decide whether to appoint a replacement or hold a by-election. This decision often depends heavily on when the next municipal election will be – there is little sense in holding a costly byelection if an appointed replacement will serve only a short term. But, at the same time, Council members are supposed to be elected, and so public opinion often strongly favours by-elections to fill vacant seats when there is still a significant portion of the 4-year term left to serve.

Councillor Bergeron was chosen to fill Tyler’s vacancy as she had the next highest number of votes in the 2018 municipal election, after those Councillors who won their seats. When a sitting Councillor

Given that municipal elections are scheduled for later this year, many municipalities, including Merrickville-Wolford and Brockville, have recently appointed replacements for members of Council who resigned or died. Councillor Bergeron could not be reached for comment.

Theresa was born and raised in Cornwall. She

obtained a BA in life sciences from Queen’s, and an MSc in nutrition from the University of Guelph. She moved to South Mountain in 1983, where she raises Angora goats. In 1992 she developed mohair socks from their fleeces and trademarked them under Thermohair. From its small beginnings, the business has expanded, and the socks are now sold across Canada, and in the United States and Japan. For the last three years, she is one of 12 on the committee writing the Canadian Goat Code of Practice. This will be the reference manual for the Canadian dairy, meat and fibre goat industry, outlining the required and recommended practices.

In her spare time, she tends to her gardens and permaculture orchard, always sharing the extra bounty with friends and neighbours.

BROCKVILLE CORNWALL KEMPTVILLE RENFREW WINCHESTER

Pictured, Theresa Bergeron was sworn in as councillor during the Regular Meeting of North Dundas Council, held on January 18. [Photo by the Township of North Dundas]

by Brandon Mayer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

"My son is turning 4 this year and I'm registering him for Kindergarten with the UCDSB "

Chesterville King Street Fire, 1909

confectionary and fruit store, Gordon Robinson’s blacksmith shop, Joseph Fisher and Colborne Robinson’s butcher shop and the Sanders, Soule and Casselman general store.

The village was left rattled by this tragedy - it was not the first they had dealt with that spring. Exactly three weeks before this incident, the Temperance Hotel and Foster’s Hall, situated at the north end of King Street, burned to the ground, and the train station and water tower narrowly escaped with minor damage.

by Ashley Harper, Chesterville and District Historical Society

In the early hours of April 6, 1909, Chesterville residents were awoken to the alarm of fire and the smell of smoke. Within hours, an entire block of

the village’s business core was reduced to rubble. It would become known as the worst conflagration in the history of Chesterville.

It originated in a wooden-framed building on the north-east corner of King and Water Streets, which

housed W. J. Nash’s tailor shop on the first floor and the Masonic Hall on the second. The flames quickly spread east down Water Street to the Chesterville Record office, destroying the printing presses, then travelled north up King to

Mountain Township & District Lions

–

Christmas Hamper Program

Ralph Street. Equipped with only one hand pump and pails for water, there was very little that could be done. The fire destroyed everything in its path, including Wilford Saucier’s jewellery store, Isaac Pelletier’s

In light of these incidents, steps were quickly taken to improve the village’s fire protection. By May, the village council was preparing a new bylaw to mandate that only ‘fireproof’ (e. g. brick, stone) buildings could be erected in the business section. That summer, a steam pumper fire engine was purchased and a proper fire department was formed with Frank McCloskey as fire chief.

Meanwhile, life went on in the village. The Chesterville Record was back in print on May 6, operating from a temporary office in a blacksmith shop. By the end of the summer, bigger and better buildings replaced those that were lost. Sanders, Soule & Casselman rebuilt on their former site (now Mike Dean’s). The Fisher Block (burned in 1989, now the Mike Dean’s parking lot) was erected, where Fisher and Pelletier carried on their businesses. The new Record building (demolished in 2018) was constructed, and Saucier rented part of the space for his jewellery store. Wesley Hamilton built the Hamilton Block on the corner of King and Water Streets (now Louis’ Restaurant).

The response to the King Street fire demonstrates the resilience of this village and its people - something that we continue to see today.

by Lion Bill Vermilyea

For close to 40 years, the Mountain Township District Lions Club has participated as part of a group to support our North Dundas Christmas Fund. Support comes in the form of money and other donations (food, clothing, toys, etc.) from community individuals, church groups, hospitals, schools, local fire departments and charitable organizations.

The first year of the North Dundas Christmas Fund was supported by Ault Foods, who supplied

gifts to the needy families in the area. This past December, the Mountain & District Lions Club distributed Christmas food hampers, including ham or turkey as well as other food items, gifts, and snowsuits for the children to thirtyseven households in the area. The baskets have sufficient food for families of all sizes for the duration of approximately one week.

This Christmas Event consisted of two days of work sorting food items, toys, and clothing. The following day consisted of

basket pick-ups by families, and deliveries by Lions members to families unable to pick up. We, as a Lions Club, are very fortunate to have members and volunteers who devote many hours of their time to assist in participating and ensuring the success of this annual event. Lions Member, Terry Foley, and his spouse, Maryanne, have contributed many hours of service towards this event from the very beginning.

Lions Member, Bob Weagant, as Chairperson of the North Dundas Christ-

mas Fund, and his spouse, Sandy, have been active for the past twelve years in organizing and carrying on this Christmas tradition for needy families. Sandy Weagant and Maryanne Foley are both honorary members of the Mountain Township & District Lions Club, and their support in all our projects is well appreciated. The Foley and Weagant families have both been recipients of the

North Dundas Community Business Award in the past. This event could not have been possible without the

overwhelming support of our community and our Club members. For this, we are thankful.

WINTER-SPRING CLEAN UP

A postcard photo that shows people walking amongst the rubble of the Sanders, Soule & Casselman general store and Fisher & Robinson' butcher shop on King Street with the newly-constructed Trinity Methodist Church in the background. [Supplied by Ashley Harper]

Some of the Christmas Hampers prepared by the Mountain Township & District Lions Club

Owner of Simply Baked Catering talks business

We’re smack dab in the middle of winter now, and your car has already weathered some foul conditions with more to come. Winter driving can be tough on your car, but the most important thing is that you and your passengers stay safe.

Keeping your vehicle maintained throughout the winter will ensure it’s running at its optimum levels and you can be con dent you’re taking the most important precautions.

Despite an uncertain pandemic economy, one local business appears to be thriving. Winchester catering business, Simply Baked Catering, has recently undergone some renovations designed to give staff and customers some extra room. Owner Cheryl Beasley corresponded with the Times about the business side of the expansion.

“We simply had to move equipment over to the other side and put in a couple of plugs,” Cheryl said. “We also had to put up a partial dividing wall for the bathroom, to separate the bathroom from the customer area.” The expansion involved making more active

use of an adjoining unit in the building which Simply Baked had previously just been using for storage. Cheryl noted that customers have been very supportive of the expansion, as it provides more space and quicker service, but such customer service is only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to keeping a business operating during a pandemic.

“We lost 53% of our business in March, 2020,” Cheryl recalled. “We pivoted [by] controlling our labour, offering takeout meals, sandwiches, and custom baking. We came up with Bagel Thursday, where you can order unique bagels and cream cheese every Thursday. We also have Pie of the Month club – you can buy the whole year, or just one pie that you like for a certain month. We partnered

with My Local Markets to expand our market.”

These new ideas have kept things fresh for Simply Baked and have kept the business thriving, even during COVID-19. In October, the Times covered the story of “Bagel Thursdays” in more detail, particularly a promotional t-shirt campaign in which $5 from every t-shirt sale was donated to the local Community Food Share leading up to Christmas. In the wake of the recent expansion, Cheryl made it clear that at least one positive thing came out of the pandemic.

“People are so amazing at supporting local and discovering the gems in their own backyard,” she said. Simply Baked Catering celebrated its 5th anniversary on January 24.

We would like to reach out to all of our customers to say:

We are open for all of your automotive repairs as well as car sales. Please feel free to browse our car lot and give us a call.

Many steps have been taken to ensure the safety for our customers and employees. We will all get through this together.

Thank you for all your support from this wonderful community that we live and work in. Take care and stay safe

Lynn & Todd RT Auto Centre

SNC encourages taking a mental break outdoors on Bell Let’s Talk Day

programs for every social media post that uses #BellLetsTalk during the world’s largest conversation about mental health.

In Memoriam

Debbie Stoodley

This year on Bell Let’s Talk Day, South Nation Conservation (SNC) is joining the conversation around mental health and promoting the benefits of being outdoors. The 2022 Bell Let's Talk Day takes place on January 26, with a continued focus for in-

creased awareness around mental health and mental illness, while encouraging Canadians and people worldwide to keep listening, keep talking and keep being there for ourselves and each other.

Bell donates 5 cents to Canadian mental health

Bell Let’s Talk Day is a nationally recognized event that focuses on supporting mental health through the promotion of anti-stigma language and action, access to support programs and funding for research, all while broadening discussion about mental health.

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, higher levels of depression are reported during winter months. Combined with the ongoing Pandemic and recent restrictions, people may be feeling more anxious

and stressed.

Spending time in nature, getting more exercise, and maximizing your exposure to sunlight are some of the ways to combat your winter blues, depression, stress, and anxiety.

“Stepping into nature and staying active is more important now, than ever” explains Shannon Gutoskie, SNC’s Communications Specialist. “Nature can enhance our health and happiness: consider a healthy hike at a Conservation Area to experience the health and wellness benefits that walking through a forest can provide.”

SNC Conservation Area Oschmann Forest in North Dundas is open

and maintained. Visitors should continue to take precautions when visiting parks: avoid congregating in groups, practice physical distancing, and consider visiting at another time if the parking lot is full.

“To help everyone enjoy outdoor experiences, please be respectful towards other visitors. Many people get outdoors to enjoy nature and seek some solitude. Excessive noise, unleashed pets, and obstructive behaviour can take away from the experience, and you never know just how important that experience may be for some,” says Shannon Gutoskie.

Precious forever are Memories of you Today, tomorrow and all life through, Just as you were, you will always be, Treasured forever in our Memory

Love John, Tim and Ashley, Melissa and Scott, Jonathan and Amber, and Families

by Brandon Mayer

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

CO2 Down to Earth 7: Energy:The Transition to Electricity

by Philip Fry

The Provincial Government has stitched many of the threads that bind the three layers of our landscape quilt together. Complementing our access to fossil fuels, some of these threads form a grid to generate and distribute the electricity we need to power numerous devices we use in our daily lives and make our landscape lively, vibrant, and productive. Now, because we must make a significant reduction in our use of fossil fuels, our dependency on electricity – for heating, for our cars, for our tractors – will grow far beyond today's requirements, and we must rely on renewable sources. It is

beyond my abilities to sort out the entanglements involved in this transition, and none of us should be required to be an investigative journalist to discover what is going on and what needs to be done. But let me nonetheless explain the situation as I see it.

With hindsight, it is clear that the Clean Energy Act passed by the previous (Liberal) government in 2009 was laudably aimed at reducing our dependency on fossil fuels, and it did indeed manage to eliminate reliance on highly polluting coal generation. But, apparently against expert advice, it steamed ahead with a rapid introduction of solar and wind facilities, offering

Baldwin's Birds

very attractive contracts to prospective producers of “green” energy. The problem was that, with rapidly advancing technology, the cost of installing ground mounted solar facilities, and to a lesser extent wind turbines, soon decreased. From 2009 to 2010, the cost of ground mounted solar installations plunged by 30%, making the rushed contracts very expensive compared to conventional generation. Debt piled up, the public was outraged, and “green” energy got a bad reputation.

Our current (Conservative) government was elected promising to clean up “the mess” and to reduce elec-

tricity rates by 12%. That, we now know as we pay an increase of 3 to 4%, did not happen. The Green Energy Act was repealed, and 758 renewable energy contracts (including what Premier Ford called “terrible, terrible, wind turbines”) were cancelled at a cost of $231 million taxpayer dollars. Meanwhile, the cost of subsidies to consumers is rising; it now represents about 33% of the total cost of electricity. (We are looking at sums from around $6 to $9 billion now, and up to $228 billion in 2045, if things don't change. Gulp!) Turning back to a mix of conventional generation – including highly contentious nuclear plants – has not helped us, and the drive towards renewable green energy has been thwarted.

Here is an example of our problem. In December, 2019, echoing Premier Ford's declaration: “If we could get rid of all the wind mills, we would,” the government cancelled the $200-million Nation Rise Wind Farm near Chrysler and Finch. The project, planned for 29 turbines, was already well under way, and there had been complaints about possible “visual disruption,” noise, and negative impacts

on health and the watershed. It was the Minister of the Environment, claiming his right to “confirm, alter, or revoke” a decision of the Environmental Review Board, who announced the decision to stop the project because it threatened local populations of Hoary, Big, and Little Brown bats (the latter on the Ontario Species at Risk list). The Superior Court squelched the decision because it did not “meet requirements of transparency, justification, and intelligibility.” The issue was not the bats, it was the government's political agenda.

As we enter this period of necessary transition to clean electric power with a significantly higher demand for its use, it is clear that we need trust and transparency. But the behaviour of both

CDSBEO selects new Director of Education

Robin! It was in our back garden perched in our Japanese Willow tree. Quite the surprise! We haven't seen it at our feeders, which are at the front of the house, so we are not sure what it is finding to feed on. There are three Crab Apple trees near the Willow, so maybe it is finding some berries that are still edible. Let's hope so!

Unusual local sightings of Winter Bird Guests

This week I received an exciting and very interesting message, via the Editor of The North Dundas Times, from one of his readers who has seen a mature Bald Eagle, near Inkerman! The lady who saw it has small livestock of her own, which might have been what was attracting it. She obviously knows and loves birds, but having witnessed one such bird, when on Vancouver Island, snatch an unwary hare from the ground, she is naturally worried about her own smaller animals too! The bird didn't stay for too long, and

she hasn't seen it since, but she did mention that she had seen one last year and it had caused quite a bit of alarm to her livestock on that occasion; but, fortunately, didn't actually try to catch anything.

On doing some research on Bald Eagles, it is quite well known that they can "winter over" and find sufficient food to survive here. Primarily, they are fish eaters, so require open waters to fish, but, once the waters freezes up, they will search for, and live on, carrion and small animals.

To add to her unusual sighting, we ourselves spotted today, in the early morning crisp, cold sunlight, a lone

As I look out of my basement office window at ground level, my feeders are busy, and the great many ground feeding birds are warily hopping about, grabbing what they can from the seed spilt or "flicked" by the Bluejays, or squirrels, from the hanging ones onto the frozen ground.

I expect your own feeders are keeping you busy, and the visiting or resident birds are appreciating your efforts and providing you with plenty of enjoyment and interest - enjoy and keep safe and well. Cheers, John Baldwin

The Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario is pleased to announce that Laurie Corrigan, Superintendent of Learning/ Special Education Services with PVNCCDSB, has been selected as the new Director of Education, effective February 21, 2022.

Director Corrigan will take over the position from John Cameron, who announced his retirement in September, after serving in

of the governments guiding the management of electricity during the last decade suggests that we must turn to scientific, economic, engineering, and conservation experts to find reassurance. Let us insist that panels of independent experts be created on the provincial and local levels to advise governments and keep us informed in a clear and timely manner. In the next instalment, I would like to consider ways to make green energy more friendly to our landscape. If you would like to enter this discussion, please contact me at wildflowerguy@gmail. com.

the position since January 2018.

“I look forward to serving the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario with a full heart and in accompaniment. I am privileged and humbled to be joining such a remarkable community.”

The incoming director also said she looks forward to other opportunities that this position offers.

“We live in a historic and challenging time to be

sure, but also a time filled with promise. I hope to work toward a path forward, lived together in faith and hope, where we all belong and are open to hearing all voices who need us to listen and learn.”

Board Chair Todd Lalonde expressed his support for the incoming director.

“Her dedication and level of experience in Catholic education is exceptional, and the Board of Trustees feel blessed to have found such an outstanding candidate. She has demonstrated her passion as an educator both through a rich and extensive career, as well as through her own commitment to lifelong learning. She is a strong advocate for our beliefs and values, and I, and the Board of Trustees, look forward to working closely with her in this new role.”

“Our Board will benefit greatly from Laurie’s wealth of education experi-

cont'd on page 9

Wind turbines at Brinston. [Photo by Rachel Everett-Fry]

Catholic District School Board Progress Report and Graduation Rates

Health Units Chief Medical Officers update Catholic School Board

The Ministry of Education has recently released the 2019-2020 provincial graduation rates. The data collected by the Ministry is based on the cohort of students who began grade 9 four years prior, in 2015-16. Annually, the Ministry of Education provides the Board with graduation rates based on a four and five-year formula.

CDSBEO Student Success initiatives have a significant impact on graduation rates. Superintendent of School

Effectiveness, Natalie Cameron, presented information on some of the successful practices which are helping CDSBEO students achieve a successful graduation outcome. This includes programs which meet the diverse needs of students such as OYAP, Virtual Reality career opportunities and myBlueprint. These programs provide both the organization and the window for students to reach their full potential and to dream big for the future.

“Despite the pandemic and the difficulties experienced by our students, our student achievement levels continue to thrive. Each year, the ministry reports on school board progress across ten key indicators. The indicators are found through EQAO testing results, grade 10 literacy test results, as well as through credit accumulation data for secondary students and four

cont'd from page 8

ence, and through her past professional involvement in planning for the needs of students as Superintendent with PVNCCDSB. I know that she will bring the same level of passion for education to her new position, which will benefit our entire Board and Catholic education,” noted Director of Education, John Cameron.

Director Corrigan brings a wealth of education experience to the CDSBEO, having held past positions in education with the PVNCCDSB and the Durham Catholic District School Board. She holds a Master of Education in Digital Technologies and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Justice Education through the Uni-

and five-year graduation rates,” began Superintendent Cameron.

The CDSBEO currently sits above provincial averages in five of six key indicators, with an 86.8% four-year graduation rate (provincial 82.2%), and an 89.7% fiveyear graduation rate (province 88.1%).

“The board works very hard to track and support students who are struggling with their academic success. We offer activities, experiential learning opportunities, creative learning strategies, and specialized programs. The board has also run a very successful virtual reality program for several years. Every secondary school has been provided with a virtual reality kit which allows students to learn and experience various tasks such as heavy equipment operation, welding, science, and robotics through simulation. The tool allows students the opportunity to have immersive, hands-on career learning opportunities.”

Superintendent Cameron highlighted the use of the myBlueprint tool to help students understand their goals, understand their interests and learning styles, and plot possible career paths beyond secondary school. Additionally, student learning and career development is enhanced through Specialist High Skills Major, OYAP and cooperative

versity of Toronto. She has published academic research in numerous professional journals since 2015, including the Journal of Systemics, Cybernetics and Informatics, the International Journal for e-Learning Security, and the International Journal for Digital Security, with a focus on technology in education, restorative practices, cyberbullying, education policy, and safe schools.

Passionate about ongoing professional development, Director Corrigan has held many affiliations including Co-Facilitator for the Supervisory Officers’ Qualification Program with the Eastern Ontario Staff Development Network, Trainer with the International Institute of Restor-

education programs, as well as through the community partners who support these programs through hands-on learning experiences and job placements. All of these programs contribute to supporting a successful graduation outcome for CDSBEO learners.

“A few other program highlights include some of our Continuing Education students. It is worth noting that the CDSBEO has granted 75 secondary school diplomas, 786 eLearning credits, and 366 Personal Support Worker certifications over the past four years,” explained Superintendent Cameron.

“This information has reinforced that education has changed on so many fronts. There are so many advantages to these excellent programs that offer learning opportunities for all types of students and support their success. I think that it is so amazing to be able to offer these options to students who learn through more hands-on experiences,” concluded Trustee Eamer.

“These learning tools definitely ensure that our students will succeed. We are truly blessed to see the variety of programs, and how well, despite the pandemic, the students are still achieving their goals. Thank you very much for this informative presentation,” concluded Vice-Chair Wilson.

ative Practices (since 2008), and Faculty Presenter with Osgoode Hall Law School. She has also undertaken training in Advanced Issues in Special Education and in Traumatic Events System Model Training, to name just a few from a very extensive list spanning since 2007. She has held many other leadership positions with both provincial and board committees.

The Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario operates 39 elementary and 10 secondary schools across eight counties. The CDSBEO offers excellence in Catholic education through provincial-leading programs to approximately 13,200 students.

Director of Education for the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario [CDSBEO], John Cameron, welcomed Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, Medical Officer of Health with the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, and Dr. Paula Stewart, Medical Officer of Health with the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, to present an update to the Board regarding the current status of COVID-19 in Eastern Ontario and school reopening. Both Medical Officers of Health have been instrumental in guiding the Board through the creation of the re-entry plan, as well as in providing regular consultation on the return to school.

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Roumeliotis began by providing an overview of the local COVID-19 case data for their respective areas.

“This is a good time for us to be speaking with the board, because much has changed, and we are treating Omicron differently. We peaked in December, and we stopped our testing and the strategy changed. While we had many cases back in December, and we are currently in a downward trend, we are still seeing a tremendous number of cases,” began Dr. Roumeliotis.

“We had a huge surge of new infections over the Christmas period, and that was the trigger across the province that changed how we are doing things,” continued Dr. Stewart. “Before, public health was following up every single case, and helping people to identify who their highrisk contacts were, and we could not do that anymore, given the volume of cases. The province then changed the approach to allow the public to self-manage their respiratory infections, as they would with other minor infections, and go for medical help when needed. So, that is the approach now, that everyone should be assessing for symptoms every single day. If they have one of the more common symptoms, or two or more of the other symptoms, then that is a really good sign you have COVID and should proceed with self-isolation.”

The expectation is that children under age 12,

and those aged 12 and older who are fully vaccinated should isolate for five days and have symptoms improving for 24 to 48 hours. For the next five days, a fitted mask should be worn, two metre distances maintained, and avoid seniors and the immune compromised. Those aged 12 and older who are not fully vaccinated or immune compromised, should isolate for ten days and have symptoms improving for 24 to 48 hours. There is no need to report cases to public health. If someone has COVID-19 symptoms, and/or a positive rapid antigen or PCR test, household members must also stay home and isolate for the same length of time as the person with symptoms.

“Persons with COVID-19 symptoms or a positive test also need to think about who they may have been in contact with just before or as they were developing symptoms, as you can be infectious a few days beforehand,” noted Dr. Stewart. “High-risk contacts will have to follow the isolation protocols as well, based on their age and vaccination status.”

Students in schools will be receiving a rapid antigen test kit for symptomatic use. Two tests should be taken 24 to 48 hours apart for the symptomatic individual. If both tests are negative, then it is unlikely that the individual has COVID-19, however isolation is still needed until symptoms improve for 24 to 48 hours. If one of the tests is positive, then assume that it is COVID-19 and follow the isolation protocols. A single rapid antigen test that is negative does not rule out COVID-19, and Dr. Roumeliotis stressed that two tests must be taken.

“A lot of the management that we are doing now is layered based on risk,” noted Dr. Roumeliotis. “Our whole approach now is to mitigate risk, and our first goal is to protect the most vulnerable in our society. Our second goal is to protect our health care system, and our third goal is to protect our critical services including first responders, fire, and police. If a lot of people get infected at once, that is

going to compromise the system.”

Dr. Roumeliotis also added that long-term care is a primary concern currently, with over half of long-term care homes in the province currently experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak. “Multiple layers of protection are very important for the return to school in Ontario,” continued Dr. Roumeliotis.

“Well fitted masks are very important, along with the enhanced cohorting measures, daily screening, improved ventilation, and of course, we need to continue to promote vaccination. We do know that with Omicron you are certainly well protected against being admitted to hospital with vaccination, versus those who are unvaccinated. Two doses will prevent severe disease, although it will not prevent infection, and a third booster dose will increase both protection against contracting the virus as well as severe disease.”

Emerging evidence also suggests that Ontarians aged 5-19 years appear to be at low risk for hospitalization and severe disease from Omicron, compared to other age groups. Additionally, school closures are associated with educational and social challenges for children and families. International data has demonstrated declines in student achievement associated with pandemic related school closures and online learning. The increase in social isolation is a major contributor to the worsening of children’s mental health in Ontario.

“A study of Ontario children aged 6 to 18 with no pre-existing psychiatric diagnosis demonstrated increased clinically significant symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. The proportion of children with clinically significant symptoms of depression and/or anxiety nearly tripled during the COVID-19 pandemic to 1 in 4 for depression and 1 in 5 for anxiety," concluded Dr. Roumeliotis.

The Food Corner

by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville

January always seems to need reminders that, though some of us are into winter sports, we still anticipate that special spring weather and a warm summer. Such reminders include enjoying fresh vegetables with our main meal, compliments of those stalwart truckers who bring us some mainstays from Southern climes, or from our Ontario greenhouses.

I thought you might like a couple of recipes for dressing up your cauliflower and your potatoes. So here are Saucy Cauliflower and Cheesy Potatoes. These are nice vegetarian meals for those so inclined, and for those who like their meat, they accompany a nice leg of lamb, chicken or turkey.

Saucy Cauliflower:

Ingredients:

1 whole cauliflower

1 cup of milk

Enough water to cover the cauliflower

3-4 tablespoons of butter

3 tablespoons of flour

2 cups of chicken bouillon (stock)

The yolk of one egg

3 tablespoons of 35% cream

Some chopped chives or shallots

Pepper

Preparation:

1. Break the cauliflower into florets and cook them in the milk and water till soft (al dente);

2. Cool under cold water and set aside;

3. Melt the butter in a saucepan, add the flour and stir and cook for about 5 minutes;

4. Add the chicken stock, stir and cook for another 5 minutes;

5. Mix the egg yolk and cream and stir into the stock slowly on lower heat and without boiling;

6. Add the cauliflower to the sauce and simmer till warm; be careful not to break up the florets;

7. Sprinkle with chives or shallots and serve.

Cheesy Potatoes

Ingredients:

4 or 5 potatoes, peeled and baked or boiled

2 tablespoons of butter melted

½ cup of Gruyère or Cheddar Cheese, grated

Parmesan cheese

Preparation:

1. Peel and slice the potatoes into thick slices;

2. Arrange in an ovenproof dish and cover with butter and the grated cheese;

3. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bake in a 400F oven, remove and serve. Enjoy and keep me posted at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

Ontario-Municipal Summit seeks solutions for more homes

Premier Doug Ford and Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, met with big city mayors and regional chairs to discuss the housing crisis and coordinate efforts to increase the supply of homes across the province. The virtual summit provided provincial-municipal leaders with an opportunity to share best practices, identify persistent issues and collaborate on ways to build the right mix of housing.

“Young families, seniors, and all hardworking Ontarians are desperate for housing that meets their needs and budget,” said Premier Doug Ford. “At a time when our province is growing, our government will continue to use every tool we have to help municipalities get more homes built faster to help more families realize the dream of home ownership.”

During the summit, Premier Ford announced more than $45 million for a new Streamline Development Approval Fund to help Ontario’s 39 largest municipalities modernize, streamline and accelerate processes for managing and approving housing applications. For

example, municipalities can use the funding to implement online systems that make it easier for applicants to navigate the development approvals process, manage their applications and receive timely status updates.

“After a decade of mismanagement and inaction under the previous government, the housing crisis in Ontario will not be solved overnight or in one meeting – addressing housing supply is a long-term strategy that requires long-term commitment, collaboration, and coordination,” said Minister Clark. “Today’s Summit was an important next step to identify what additional measures we can take to increase the supply of housing and make it easier for Ontarians and their families to find a home that meets their needs and budget. As we continue this dialogue, our government will ensure municipalities have the tools and resources they need to unlock housing in every community across Ontario.”

The government also announced over $8 million through the Audit and Accountability Fund to help large urban municipalities

identify potential savings and efficiencies through third-party reviews to further accelerate the creation of new housing and modernize municipal services.

As an additional measure to help build more homes faster, the province also committed to work with the municipal sector to develop a data standard for planning and development applications to help accelerate approval timelines. Built with municipalities, data standardization will help improve the quality of data, create consistency across systems, make it easier to measure results, reduce costs for business and governments, and support municipalities’ transition to digital service delivery and digital approvals. This work is part of the Ontario Data Authority initiative, designed to accelerate Ontario’s economic and social growth through improved data sharing.

The government’s housing policies under More Homes, More Choice: Ontario’s Housing Supply Action Plan are working to increase the supply of the full range of housing options, from single fam-

Meet Your Neighbour: Edith Baker

from hats and scarves to afghans.”

Edith was born in Orrville, a small village 16 miles from Parry Sound. She started training to become a nurse just before her 19th birthday. “I was going to be a nurse since the time I learned to talk, just like my Aunt Alice.”

ily homes to midrise housing to purpose-build rental apartment buildings. In 2020, the year after More Homes, More Choice was implemented, Ontario saw the highest level of housing starts in a decade and the highest level of rental starts since 1992.

As well, a Rural Housing Affordability Roundtable with rural, remote and northern municipalities will be held on January 23. Additionally, the government is engaging with industry experts on the Task Force and recently held an online public consultation to inform the province’s next steps on additional measures that will help more Ontarians find the home that is right for them.

Premier Ford, Minister Clark, and Ministers, Associate Ministers and Parliamentary Assistants will attend the 2022 virtual Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) Conference from January 23 to 25, to discuss rural priorities and opportunities for building Ontario, including housing, economic growth, public health, resource development, and more.

Tid Bit Musings

by Elva Patterson Rutters RSSW

Role-modelling is often both a conscious and subconscious action. If you are in doubt what you are role-modelling to young children, simply watch them at play. They will demonstrate in their play what they have heard, or observed, you or other notable persons in their life doing! The games of "teacher, doctor, babysitter, parents" reveal more than you ever conceived absorbed by their minds! The violence, swearing, bullying, crass, drug use including getting drunk/high and other objectionable actions are played out. When you see love, compassion, and empathy mixed with gentleness and kindness, you know you are doing a great job role-modelling . It is quite embarrassing and humbling as you observe their vocabulary and tactics.

Regardless of your position of leadership, employment, nurturer, volunteerism, or neighbor, everything you say and do reflects your morals, opinions, and validation of your beliefs. Incongruency is easily spotted and duly noted. When belonging to a service club, or any organization, a mission statement is to direct your actions. Scouting/guiding reflect be prepared. Spiritual beliefs, as well, are best indicated in actions rather than words. When you "ring hollow", or, in other words, contradict in action what you verbalize, you role-model controversy, contempt, and skepticism. Communication is 80% non-verbal and 20% verbal. Actions do speak louder than words.

Morewood because our son was living on the farm.”

Knitting

master, lifelong

nurse by Jennifer Westendorp

Edith Baker knows the true meaning of hard work. She’s a retired nurse who raised four kids and ran a small farm alongside her late husband, Gordon. The 96-year-old says nothing went to waste back then.

“I made all my kids clothes,” she explains. “I canned everything. We had

a big garden on the farm. I can remember getting one load through the canner and then I’d have to put the next load in, have a nap, and then wake up and take them out when they were finished.”

Edith has been knitting for 90 years, beginning at the age of six. “I’m on dish cloths right now,” she notes. “During my lifetime, I’ve done everything,

After marrying Gordon in 1947, the couple moved to Morewood, where his family lived. “I came down here and worked at the Winchester Hospital,” she remembers. “I worked there until I retired, and then I went back the very next day to volunteer in the day care unit, taking care of patients. I did that for about eight years because I liked what I was doing.”

While Edith took care of people in the community - first on the maternity ward and then in the operating room - Gordon was busy farming their 50-acre parcel of land.

“We were very happy,” she says. “Later on, we moved into the village of

Edith notes that the people in North Dundas are what make it such a great place to live. She could always rely on her neighbours and vice versa. She was living at the Garden Villa in Chesterville, but has since moved to Dundas Manor. Edith says life continues to treat her well.

“I do jigsaw puzzles and I’m knitting all the time.”

The days of going to Russell to attend dances are now just memories, but Edith trucks on with her knitting, unceasingly devoted to meaningful work. In her eyes, North Dundas hasn’t changed that much over the years –maybe a few more houses and businesses – but still the same great place she’s called home for over seven decades.

“It’s a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family.”

What do you role-model? Are you willing to be held accountable for what you do or say? One day, as we stand before the Maker, we are held accountable for every iota of breath we take. Meanwhile, you are role-modelling to those around you, whether you know them or not. Listen to the vibes you give off. Are you genuine and consistent in philosophy? If you are resistant, cold-hearted, callous, self-centered, or self serving, perhaps some counselling will help break down the barriers you have built up. Fear to reach out for counselling signals an impasse itself. The biggest fear is fear itself.

Today is the day to do a turnabout, if your rolemodelling needs some fine tuning to get it to an exemplary level. Only you can take that step!

Edith Baker busies herself knitting a dish cloth while chatting about her life.

Stand Up to read this week’s column

A storm, a declaration, and a plow fire

was made for a 72-hour period, and read in part:

Get up on your feet. Seriously. It will be good for you. Sitting is something we have all become accustomed to doing a lot more of lately.

Just prior to the pandemic, studies showed that the average adult spent about 6.5 hours a day sitting – an hour longer than had been the case a decade earlier. In 2019, teenagers were sitting for upwards of 8 hours a day, and for some much longer than that. During the pandemic, a study in the UK found that people were spending more than eight hours a day sitting. Canadians are reportedly sitting around for 10 hours a day!

Dr. Jennifer Heisz, associate professor of kinesiology at McMaster University, surveyed over 1,600 people to compare physical activity prior and during the pandemic. She found that aerobic activity was down by about 20 minutes per week, strength training down roughly 30 minutes per week, and sedentary time was up about 30 minutes per day.

Why worry about it? For starters, the Canadian Cancer Society reports “a growing body of evidence supports a link between sedentary behaviour and an increased risk of colorectal cancer.” A German study found people who worked desk jobs or driving vehicles had a 24% increased risk of developing colon cancer, as compared to

people who don’t sit at work. Every two-hour increase in sitting time was associated with an 8% increased risk of colon cancer. Sitting and watching television was far worse, with a 54% increased risk for couch potatoes, as compared to those spending less time in front of the TV.

If that’s not bad enough, think again. (By the way, as brain scientists suggest, you’ll be better able to think about this if you are standing up.)

Relaxed muscles absorb less glucose from the blood, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes. A Norwegian study may be good news for otherwise active people who sit for prolonged periods of time, but not such good news for inactive people. The study found sitting time has little association with diabetes risk in the population as a whole. But, among physically inactive people, sitting for 5-7 hours a day was associated with a 25% higher risk of diabetes, compared with sitting less than four hours a day.

Excessive sitting also has an impact on the brain. Less blood is pumped to this vital organ, and even a very small difference in blood flow can impact on memory and create cloudy thinking. The negative consequences of sitting too much on Alzheimer’s disease is not exactly breaking news. More than a decade ago, The Lancet, Neurology reported,

“worldwide, approximately 13% (nearly 4.3 million) AD cases may be attributable to physical inactivity.”

Still sitting? Here’s some motivation to get up. The report continued, “A 10% reduction in the prevalence of physical inactivity could potentially prevent more than 380,000 AD cases globally, and nearly 90,000 cases in the US, while a 25% reduction in physical inactivity prevalence could potentially prevent nearly 1 million AD cases globally, and 230,000 in the US.”

Dr. Heisz observed a shift in what is motivating people to get up and get active. In her recent study, participants reported less interest in their physical health and appearance, and more concern for their mental well-being. That’s a welcome trend.

The message is compelling. Reducing the amount of your sitting time improves the chances for better cardiovascular health, lowers cancer risk, diabetes risk, and the prospects for Alzheimer’s. So get up from your chair!

Unless you are 98, says Giff.

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by Brandon Mayer

Many parts of Ontario were hit hard by a severe winter storm last week,the aftermath of which lasted several days. In North Dundas, the storm on Monday, January 17 was reported to have been the largest the area has seen since 2016. Winchester saw a dumping of over 40cm of snow within less than a 24-hour period, while some places west of the area are reported to have had even more snow.

The agency which oversees school bus transportation in the region – Student Transportation of Eastern Ontario (STEO) – made the rare decision to cancel buses the day before the storm, before the first snowflake fell. Several hours after the initial decision was made, it was announced that schools in the region would be closed to staff and students as well, over concerns that not enough staff would make it in to supervise any students who arrived. Transportation was virtually impossible on unplowed side roads in the region for most of the day on Monday.

School buses were again cancelled by STEO on January 18, though schools remained open. While Tuesday’s weather was sunny, many side roads had not yet been plowed, and blowing winds re-covered most roads which had been plowed, causing large snow drifts. Another

“The public is advised to exercise caution when travelling on roadways and sidewalks, avoid any unnecessary travel, and, if possible, stay at home, as it may take longer than usual to restore conditions back to a normal state.”

lighter snowfall hit the area on January 19, with about 10cm of accumulation. School buses were not officially cancelled, causing disapproval from many parents due to the road conditions. But over 200 individual bus delays or cancellations were reported in STEO’s coverage area.

The Township of North Dundas made a declaration of a “Significant Weather Event” on the morning of January 18, letting residents know that area roads would not be maintained to the usual standard due to several factors, including the ongoing weather event, two snow plows out of commission, and other “unforeseen circumstances.” The declaration

One issue which hurt the road clearing operations in North Dundas was a snow plow fire, which destroyed one of the Township’s own trucks. A picture of the destroyed truck was posted on the Township’s Facebook page, with a message from Mayor Tony Fraser thanking Municipal employees for their hard work. The post notes that other Township equipment was also put out of service by the fire, though the details of this are unclear.

Many readers have likely seen recent ads on television and streaming services promoting a Government of Canada information base called “Get Prepared.” The website aims to provide information to Canadians on understanding the emergency and disaster risks in their area, as well as how to make an emergency plan and an emergency kit. Storms such as the one last week reinforce the message that being prepared for natural disasters should be a priority. The Get Prepared online resource can be accessed at www.getprepared.gc.ca/ index-en.aspx.

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter