Issue 49 2022 December 15 NG Times

Residents share concerns about proposed housing development

“That’s potentially 300 people moving into the area,” she explained. “It’s right next to the soccer field and the ball field and the playground for the kids.” The resident also expressed concern that the plans for the building do not suggest that it will be aesthetically pleasing. “They look like they’re army barracks,” she added. “There’s already lots of low income apartments going up. We have no public transportation… there are really not enough employments opportunities for 168 units. We’re not opposed to development, we just think that 168 is too many.”

The fact that the former lot of Kemptville Public School is going to be the site of a housing development is certainly not recent news, but the facts surrounding the project are ever changing. It was originally announced in early 2020 that the former KPS site had been purchased by The Samure Group, with plans for a residential development of approximately 20 units. The building had been for sale since 2018, so news of the

purchase was welcome.

In 2021, the property changed hands to Ottawa Valley Developments, and the old building was demolished in June of that year. The zoning of the property as a school remained, but pending changes, the residential development was expected to happen as originally planned. Fast forward to last month, when a notice of a public meeting released by the Municipality revealed that the plans for the site now involved a residential development of three separate buildings, in total comprising of approximately 168

units.

There now seems to be an uncomfortable buzz around the community –from many whose homes neighbour the site – in strong opposition to such a large development. “Not many people seem to know about it,” an anonymous resident told the Times. “We’ve been trying to get information on it all summer and Council kept saying they didn’t have any information on it.”

The resident explained that the biggest concern of those opposed to the project is the immense size of it, at 168 units.

The resident expressed further concerns about Bill 23 (the More Homes Built Faster Act), which limits municipal powers and the powers of concerned citizens to challenge new housing developments. The public meeting to discuss the new development took place on the evening of December 14, past the deadline for its outcome to be included in the current issue of the Times. Readers will be updated as new information becomes available.

The former site of Kemptville Public School, where a residential development is expected to be built in the near future. Photo by Ashley Sloan

by Brandon Mayer

Kemptville downtown becomes movie set… again!

year, in June, Kemptville’s downtown was the site of some filming for a movie called “Record Breaking Christmas”. At that time, a Producer told the Times that Kemptville was chosen for its “quaint” small town feel. The feeling appears to be mutual.

Is Kemptville becoming the new Hollywood? That seems like an appropriate question given the number of films that have been partially filmed here in recent months, with two being filmed in the last few weeks alone.

On December 5, some scenes for an upcoming made-for-TV movie called “Valentine Nebraska” were shot in downtown Kemptville, with a section of Prescott Street closed and appropriately set for the occasion. It turns out that Valentine is a real town in Nebraska, with Kemptville playing the part for the purposes of the movie with the same name.

As is necessary when filming a movie, the section of Prescott Street used in the filming had to be transformed to reflect the artistic vision of the filmmakers. It is clear that it is not just officials from the Municipality who were on board with the filming, since several of the businesses on Prescott Street

were decorated to play their role in the movie. One business – the former Butler’s Victorian Pantry – was even completely transformed, bearing a large sign reading “Post Office”.

Production Manager Jackie Massar explained more about the movie. “It’s a Hallmark Valentine’s Day movie, so a little different –and refreshingly so – than the usual Christmas ones we do,” she said. “We’re an Ottawa-based production company and Kemptville is close enough for our cast and crew to travel to daily rather than putting up in hotel. It doubles as a great Main Street for a small town, which a lot of these movies take place in. Kemptville has beautiful old architecture and a quaint, charming feeling to it that’s cozy, intimate and friendly. Our viewers at Hallmark love this, so we’ll keep coming back as long as you’ll have us!”

Just one week prior to the filming of “Valentine Nebraska”, on November 29, another film called “Christmas By Design” was partially shot in downtown Kemptville. Earlier this

With Kemptville being chosen as a set for multiple movies recently, Mayor Nancy Peckford is calling the exposure good news for the Municipality. "The intention, with partnering on these film productions, is we get North Grenville on the radar, she said. Mayor Peckford added that the publicity helps show that North Grenville is “scenic and compelling”.

“We get some really

good, sort of free, advertising… just from the film companies themselves because we're building relationships," she added. "Just like any other sector, where you are on the radar and someone can recommend your community to another film production company, the power of the word of mouth is very, very valuable."

“Valentine Nebraska” will air on the Hallmark Channel close to Valentine’s Day. To see Kemptville on screen without the wait, check out “Record Breaking Christmas”, which is set for release today, December 15. The trailer can be viewed at https://www.imdb.com/title/ tt22751010/.

Java for Yukes Coffeehouse success

submitted by Jude Fader-Levere and Joan Simpson

Friends of North Grenville Public Library are delighted to report that, thanks to generous community support of their November 19 coffeehouse fundraiser, the Library will be able to add several ukuleles to the collection. The evening featured music of the 60’s and 70’s by talented local musicians Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Chris Morgan, Peter Johnson and Herb Cloutier. Delicious refreshments were provided by members and supporters of the Friends. Thank you to kitchen volunteers Joyce Lamont and Jane Pelletier for a job well done. Expect to see the ukuleles for loan in the New Year. THANK YOU AND BRAVO!

Kemptville Hospital fundraiser at B&H Grocers

A fundraiser was held recently in support of the Kemptville Hospital Auxiliary, by B&H Your Community Grocer. Thanks to their efforts and to the generosity of the Kemptville community, more than $2800 was raised, all of which will go towards the purchase of much needed equipment at the Kemptville Hospital.

The Auxiliary would like to thank Judy, Jim, and all the staff at B&H for their faithful support and generosity.

A section of Prescott Street set up for the filming of “ Valentine Nebraska” on December 5

Jude Fader-Levere, Friends of NGPL, presents a cheque to Rachel Brown, Library CEO, to purchase ukuleles

Shown presenting the cheque to Auxiliary volunteer Jean, are Cathy on the left, and Laura on the right

by Brandon Mayer

Eric Norenberg: gone too soon

aldine and Paul Wittke, brother-in-law David (Lana), niece Christine, and close friend, Gerry McGillvray, who was like a brother to him. He will be fondly remembered by aunts, uncles and cousins in Canada, Germany, Poland, and Switzerland.

North Grenville is m ourning the death of Eric Norenberg, who died on December 2 at the early age of 55. During the final two weeks of his life, he was in the Ottawa General Hospital where he was extended considerate care by all the staff, to whom the family wishes to express their sincere appreciation. Additionally, they would like to gratefully acknowledge the doctors

and nurses at both the Chemotherapy Clinic of the Winchester Hospital and the Ottawa Cancer Centre.

Eric was the beloved husband of Julie (nee Wittke) and loving father of Lauren and Ryan. He was the dear brother to Margret (Sasha) and uncle to Luke and Markus. Predeceased by his parents Christa and Karl Norenberg, he is survived by his parents-in-law, Ger-

He will be deeply missed by many friends, acquaintances, and the staff of Kemptville Building Centre Ltd. (KBCBMR) whom he considered part of his extended family. After his parents passed, Eric took charge of KBC which continued to flourish under his leadership.

Eric was born and raised in Kemptville and was proud to call this community his home. He was actively involved in the North Grenville community giving his time and energy to many worthy causes, most notably the Kemptville District Hospital Foundation, the North Grenville Library and Kemptville Youth Centre, among others.

Perhaps the commu-

nity will remember Eric especially for his family’s role in building the North Grenville Public Library, named the Norenberg Building in recognition of the $150,000 they donated to the Library Building Fund. The Norenberg Building was officially opened on May 28, 2011, and was the highlight of that year’s Dandelion Festival.

Eric enjoyed spending time with his family and friends boating, snowmobiling, and travelling. His great love for animals was evident and he could always be found with pets

by his side. He loved to get away to the family cottage where he appreciated the tranquility of nature. His great sense of humour was always present.

In Memoriam, donations may be made to the Kemptville District Hospital, or the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation. Condolences/Tributes/Donations can be directed through Hulse, Playfair & McGarry. www.hpmcgarry.ca.

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

Strength of the herd

by Brandon Mayer

Debates in the Letters to the Editor section are one of my favourite things about the Times. It is almost reminiscent of pen pals holding a healthy debate through their hobby. A debate that has been going on for months now is one taking place between Steve Gabell, local chapter president of the Green Party of Ontario, and many other local residents regarding the subject of climate change and environmental sustainability. Dare I weigh in? Yes, I dare.

Environmentally conscious individuals were, a few short decades ago, often mocked for their beliefs. Those who cared about the environment in generations past were labelled as “tree huggers”, stifling progress and caring more about preserving water, energy, and greenery than preserving jobs and facilitating economic growth. Simply put, in many circles, those who care about the environment used to be a heavily disregarded minority. I am not particularly old, but I am nonetheless old enough to

remember when recycling was forward-thinking, and there were those who simply chose not to recycle. Today, such a move would be almost unheard of, and would be met with strong rebuke. This shows some of the progress that has been made when it comes to caring about the environment.

In many ways, environmentalists have been vindicated in the sense that caring about the environment is no longer a “trend” or a minority movement, but is rather seen by many as a social imperative that works its way into many businesses’ practices and the day to day lives of most people. We don’t just recycle now – many people compost. Gasoline powered cars are required to meet stringent emissions standards, and most car manufacturers now have fully electric models available. Natural gas –which used to be celebrated as a cheap way to heat homes – is now being fazed out in some jurisdictions due to its environmental impact. Electric heat (a term which used to sound like nails on a chalkboard to any financially responsible homeowner) is

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor, Thank you to the new Council for ending dumping fees for all charitable organisations in the Municipality. It is a sign of a progressive and caring Council and will be of real benefit to the entire community. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to Mayor and Council, and all the people of North Grenville and beyond. M. J. Coté

Dear Editor, Shirley Price - Our self inflicted recession is far greater than the Great Depression that you recall. Obviously your parents are not good liberals, then they would have fed the men at the back door before you! How selfish of them(sarcasm). I am mad as well at today’s Canada! I have carved out a pretty good life for myself,

but definitely not enough to help my three kids start out in life! Even if they worked 24 hrs a day 6 days a week they couldn’t achieve what I did as a young man. I want to help more, but I just can’t support today’s rise in cost. Very sad!

Marc Nadeau - No kidding! I asked weeks ago to stop publishing these nonsensical climate change writings. As per usual, they look to JT to fix. They sound like the farmers wife in the movie “the accounted” when she is under duress, Jussstiiin. The man just doesn’t care if it doesn’t benefit him, shocking we refuse to see it.

Bob Swaren-Oh no, what have you done! I think they finally agreed to not agree regarding climate change! You realize climate change is NOT a joke, that is why

now likely to dominate the future. Single use plastics are being eliminated by law, with things such as plastic straws becoming something of a “taboo” in the restaurant industry. Governments are even willing to give out significant rebates to people who install things like watersaving showerheads, and smart thermostats. Even our eating practices have changed in part due to a care for the environment. Vegans no longer exist simply to save animals; some choose veganism because it is known to be better for the environment. Some changes to environmental practices have become so ingrained within us that we forget about them. Ask yourself – when is the last time you purchased an incandescent light bulb?

How have we come this far? We talk about “herd immunity” when discussing vaccines. It is true that there is a strength in herds – strength in numbers. Animals travelling in packs do so for safety. What would happen to a pack animal who deviated from its herd? Aside from obvious safety concerns, it would certainly

be less likely to accomplish anything. It is not likely to be a good hunter, good at finding shelter, or good at getting adequate rest given the need for near constant vigilance in the absence of trusted companions. With time, it may be that this lone animal would give up, knowing it’s only a matter of time before a predator strikes.

Let’s think of environmental sustainability as the “predator” in this analogy, and the “herd” as the mainstream population who is, at best, indifferent to matters related to the environment. A person who deviates from the herd and attempts a crusade of environmental responsibility is likely to soon give up, seeing his or her actions as unhelpful unless others support the cause as well. To flip the analogy around, if the “herd” is in fact a well-meaning government instituting environmentally conscious policy changes, and the countless citizens who have no choice but to follow along form the herd, deviation from the herd is unlikely. Few people would have had the audacity to switch from natural gas to electric heating in 1995.

Likewise, when new homes are banned in the near future from using natural gas or propane for heating, it would take a special kind of whacko to make leaps and bounds to circumvent the law in utter futility. No matter what the herd is doing, there is strength in the herd. I don’t know of many people who would willingly choke on the remnants of what used to be a paper straw before their drink is even finished, unless those around them are doing it too.

Circling to the point, one thing is abundantly clear: no matter the status quo, the average person will go along with it. It’s therefore important that instead of shaming individuals who commit environmental wrongs, we focus on the importance of progress in the status quo. I will admit that when I have an empty bottle of ketchup or salad dressing, I do occasionally throw it out rather than using the large amount of water required to rinse it for recycling (sorry, Steve!). This attitude comes in part from a recent episode of CBC’s The Fifth Estate, chronicling the dirty work of some Canadian recycling

companies that simply ship blue bin plastic overseas, making no effort to actually recycle it. I would rather save the water than rinse something that may end up in a garbage pile anyway. Am I wrong? Maybe, but you will not save the world by scolding me. Save the world by advocating for the policies that will change the behaviour of the herd, both individuals and corporations included.

Changes take time, and people will always resist change. For example, electric cars are a leap for many and expensive for most, and they sprang up on us rather quickly. Sometimes, this resistance to change has a side benefit in that it makes the change sustainable. A sudden switch to only electric cars, for example, could cripple our electrical grid. Slow and steady wins the race, though it is clear that we need that steady march forward. Let’s be proud of our progress, and look to good leadership to guide us as a herd. Only then can we ensure a healthy planet for our children, our grandchildren, and beyond.

ConnectWell Autism addresses “Sibling Burnout” with new Sibshop program

you must pay and pay more! Regarding your other point, maybe the school system would be better if we just paid the teachers even more money!!

Ed Norman-God bless for calling it quits, it’s been a long and stale ride! And thanks for sharing what you personally do for climate change???

Lynn Paibomesai-They are sadly all the same it seems. We have such hope that our politicians have our best interests at heart when most are just self serving. How can we hold these people accountable when they have such power. Oh I wish there was a way.

Paul Gleiser

Your relationship with your sibling is probably part of your earliest memories. Siblings rely on each other for support, share secrets that they do not feel comfortable telling others, and provide a playmate and mentor for one another. The impact a sibling relationship has on one’s life does not change when your sibling has Autism Spectrum Disorder; however, it can come with more pieces to navigate and understand from a young age.

Siblings often play a supportive role, and can become a secondary caregiver to their siblings, yet there are no programs available just for them. “It’s like (siblings get) caregiver burnout,” explained Anna Goodings Autism Services Manager at ConnectWell. “Most family support services focus on the parent/ guardian and the role of the sibling has been mostly untouched.” According to the Sibshop Support Project, sibling relationships can last upwards of 65 years. This is why ConnectWell Community Health feels there is a vital need to support and educate the siblings of individuals with Autism, as well as their parents.

Autism Services of ConnectWell Community Health are providing this opportunity of support and education to the families of Lanark, Leeds and Grenville through a certified Sibshop program. This research based sibling support group hosts its first meeting in January 2023. Sibshop is a program utilized across the Globe to provide siblings a chance to play fun and interactive games, obtain peer support from those who get it in a way others may not be able to, while also working to developing a better understanding of the gifts their sibling with autism may have. This group focuses on providing a safe and fun environment for siblings to recognize they are not alone in their experiences, and to help foster healthy, long-lasting relationships with siblings through education.

ConnectWell Community Health’s Sibshop program, along with several others, is being offered FREE of charge to families registered with the Ontario Autism Program (OAP). Even if not registered with the OAP, families are encouraged to contact ConnectWell Community Health to learn more about the many programs that the Autism Services team provides. Programs that may benefit not only the individual with Autism but also their family. For more information on Sibshop contact: Jenny Smith jsmith@connectwell.ca, 613-213-0618

the north grenville

TIMES

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Melissa Ottenhof marketing@ngtimes.ca 613 329 0209

Ashley Sloan Reporter at large 613-215-0735

Accounting Pat Jessop cfo@ngtimes.ca

www.ngtimes.ca

ISSN 2291-0301

OFFICE 613-215-0735

Editor Brandon Mayer editor@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

Mailing Address P.O. Box 1854 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0

Production production@ngtimes.ca 613-215-0735

The North Grenville Times is published weekly by North Grenville Times Inc.

IMPAIRED CHARGES LAID

On December 1, 2022 around 1:15 am, officers from the Grenville County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were on patrol when they observed a driver travelling at a high rate of speed on County Road 19, in the Municipality of North Grenville. The officer spoke with a male driver before conducting further testing.

A 64 years old from Kemptville was arrested and charged with:

· Operation while impaired - alcohol and drugs - CC s.320.14(1)(a)

· Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus) Criminal Code s.320.14(1)(b)

He was released and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brockville at a later date.

On December 2, 2022, shortly after 1:00 pm, officers from Grenville County OPP responded to a traffic complaint of a vehicle all over the road travelling on Highway 416 near the Kemptville exit. After a brief investigation, the driver of a sedan was arrested and taken to a nearby detachment.

A 46-year-old from Ottawa was charged under the Criminal Code (CC) with:

· Operation while impaired - alcohol and drugs - CC s.320.14(1)(a)

· Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus) - CCs.320.14(1)(b)

The driver was released and is scheduled to appear at the Brockville Ontario Court of Justice at a later date.

COLLISION ON 401 WB CLOSES LANE

On December 4, 2022 at approximately 10:30 am, officers of the Grenville County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and other emergency crews responded to a report of a motor vehicle collision on Highway 401 westbound, east of Maitland.

Investigation revealed that a tractor trailer was travelling eastbound when a tire came off and travelled across the median into the path of a westbound car.

The 23 year old female from Ottawa was transported by paramedics to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The lane was closed for a short period of time while OPP investigated. The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who believes someone is driving impaired should call 911 or 1-888-3101122 OR CRIME STOPPERS AT 1-800-222-8477. Your call could save a life!

Statement by Mayor Nancy Peckford on the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women

"On behalf of Council and the Municipality of North Grenville, we join with Canadians across the country to remember and reflect on the fourteen women who lost their lives in the École Polytechnique massacre in 1989. On this day, a gunman entered a classroom at École Polytechnique Montréal, and killed 14 women as an intentional act of gender-based violence.

On December 6, we honour and remember these 14 women: Geneviève Bergeron, Hélène Colgan, Nathalie Croteau, Barbara Daigneault, Anne-Marie Edward, Maud Haviernick, Maryse Laganière, Maryse Leclair, Anne-Marie Lemay, Sonia Pelletier, Michèle Richard, Annie St-Arneault, Annie Turcotte and Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz.

Municipal Flags have been lowered to half-mast.

Council recognizes that gender-based violence continues to be a reality in our community and across our country. We know that during the pandemic, incidents of family violence - and many women and children have faced a heightened risk of partner-related violence and abuse.

As Mayor of North Grenville and Warden of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, I am committed to working alongside Council colleagues, community partners and municipal staff, as we strive for a community where everyone has a safe place to work and call home.

The Municipality of North Grenville provides annual funding to Victim Services of Leeds & Grenville for enhanced local community support here.

Residents experiencing violence in North Grenville have access to a dedicated professional at Leeds and Grenville's Victim Services who can meet privately in person or over the phone and provide confidential feedback and assistance.

Every single one of us has a role to play in helping to prevent and address gender-based violence by remembering and learning from our past, listening to survivors, speaking up against harmful behaviour and getting families the crucial supports they need.

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is about remembering those who have experienced gender-based violence and lost who we have lost to it. It is also a time to take action.

If you or someone you know is in need of support, please reach out. Together, we can create the conditions for families, schools, workplaces and a community that is free of violence."

Community Supports:

· Victim Services of Leeds & Grenville 1-800-939-7682 | http://vslg.ca

· Leeds & Grenville Interval House 1-800-267-4409 | http://lgih.ca

· Naomi House 613-774-2838 (24/7 Crisis Line) | https://naomiscentre.ca/

· Assaulted Women's Helpline 1-866-863-0511 | Text #SAFE (#7233) | www.awhl.org/

· Assault Response & Care Centre 1-800-567-7415 | www.arc-c.ca/

· Children's Mental Health of Leeds and Grenville 1-800-809-2494 | www.cmhlg.ca/

MUNICIPAL OFFICE HOURS

The Municipal office is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

HOLIDAY CLOSURE

The Municipal office will be closed as of Friday, December 23, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. and will re-open on January 3, 2023 at 8:30 a.m.

Visit our events calendar to find out what’s happening in the community: www.northgrenville.ca/events-calendar

UPCOMING MEETINGS

COUNCIL

MEETINGS

Council meetings will be held in Council Chambers and will be live streamed on YouTube at: youtube.com/user/NorthGrenville/featured and on the Municipality’s website at: northgrenville.ca/govern/governance/agendas-and-minutes.

To make a deputation in relation to an item on the agenda, please provide your comments no later than two hours prior to the start of the meeting to clerk@ northgrenville.on.ca.

Council agendas are available at: northgrenville.ca/govern/governance/agendas-and-minutes.

• Council Meeting (Open) – Council Chambers – Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at 6:30 p.m.

VOLUNTEER AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Waste Transfer Station Attendant

The Municipality of North Grenville is seeking to fill a casual position of Waste Transfer Station Attendant. The salary for this position currently pays $16.83 to $18.92 per hour. Interested applicants may submit a cover letter and resume outlining qualifications in confidence to Human Resources Visit www.northgrenville.ca for details and to apply.

WASTE MANAGEMENT SCHEDULING

Solid waste, organics and recycling pick-up, including the Oxford Mills Waste Transfer Station, will continue regularly scheduled operations over the holiday season. For more information, please visit NGrecycles.ca.

HOLIDAY SKATING

Additional public skate times are being offered over the holiday season:

Wednesday, December 28, 2022 1:00 p.m. - 2:20 p.m.

Thursday, December 29, 2022 3:30 p.m. - 4:50 p.m.

Monday, January 2, 2023 1:00 p.m. - 2:20 p.m.

Wednesday, January 4, 2023 1:00 p.m. - 2:20 p.m.

Thursday, January 5, 2023 1:00 p.m. - 2:20 p.m.

For the full schedule visit our calendar of events at www.northgrenville.ca

The Municipality of North Grenville 285 County Rd. 44, PO Box 130 , Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-258-9569 Fax: 613-258-9620 general@northgrenville.on.ca www.NorthGrenville.ca Building: 613-258-9569 x130 Fax: 613-258-1441

Fire Services Info: 613-258-9569 x201 Fax: 613-258-1031

By-Law Services: email: bylawinquiries@northgrenville.on.ca 613-258-9569 x211

Police Administration: 613-258-3441 Animal Control: 613-862-9002

• Polystyrene (Styrofoam

•

Serving the Ottawa Valley!

Young and Young At Heart looking to fundraise

letters, and soon heard back from the Manor that they loved them.

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

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

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 hand-crafted 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.

Royal Lepage Team Realty raises $1,000 for Salvation Army

Mother nature granted Royal LePage Team Realty a beautiful sunny day to host our annual Christmas BBQ for the Salvation Army. An awesome total of $1,100 was raised at the BBQ. Special thank you to the generous people in North Grenville for their donations. The need this year is greater than ever, but those that can give are being very generous. Royal LePage started these Christmas BBQ’s over 25 years ago at the OPP Station. Prior to COVID, we hosted a couple of BBQ’s at the Fire Station. We missed two years due to COVID. Last year, we were fortunate enough to resurrect the annual BBQ on the patio of our new office on Prescott St. The realtors at Royal LePage live by their motto – “we give where we live”.

"Stories from the

is a collection of more than 70 pieces on colourful and significant people, events, and places in the history of North Grenville, from pre-contact times, up to very recent days.

"Places in the Past" is a collection of historic photographs and accompanying captions showing the way things were in North Grenville over two hundred years.

North Grenville has a wealth of stories to tell about the people and places in its past. And these two books tell some of those stories.

Supply is very limited, so contact us today to order yours. info@ngtimes.ca.

Cost: $25 each.

by Brandon Mayer

submitted by Judy Littau

L-R: Chris Drozda, Santa Claus, Nina Tachuk, Greg Thurlow (Salvation Army), back row – Jason Beck and Judy Littau.

South Branch"

It is with deep sadness the family of Keith Mac Nair announces his death on Sunday November 20, 22, age 91 at Hilltop Manor Merrickville. Loving father of his three daughters Susan (late Ronnie), Deborah (Blair) Barbara (Terry) Cherished grandfather to Tami (Kelly), Diane (Bill) and Kevin. Great Grandfather to Jamie (Katelyn), Christopher (John), Bradley (Cassidy) and Kaitlyn, Great Great Grandpa to Hudson. Keith is predeceased by his parents Wilfred and Mae York. Loving husband to the late Helen and Patricia. He will be missed by his friend and companion in Florida Theresa Schori and her daughter Christine. Cremation has taken place and a grave side service at South Gower Cemetery will be held in the spring.

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.

Family dismissed from Habitat for Humanity home

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.”

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.”

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.

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.

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 homeownership 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 water 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

“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 hours already contributed by the former recipient family will not be compensated for by Habitat. The new family that will

“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.

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

Reconnecting on Route 2022

You can feel the energy in the air as people prepare for the holidays. There are cookies to bake, presents to wrap, cards to write and places to go…and go…and go. There is a lot of go this time of year, when maybe this is the time we need to stop. Stop and reflect on the year behind us. The year that was not as sure footed as we may have hoped for as we stepped gingerly along, our confidence lessened by the past few years.

When we pause, if only for a moment, we not only reconnect with ourselves, but we find space to reconnect with others. Over the last year on this Route 2022 we have seen the power of connection through an increase of new volunteers, clients and more visitors to the centre. The euchre tables are full every Monday with experienced players welcoming new ones. Diners’ Club continues to be a full house, with homemade meals, music and laughter every week. In the words of one client who understands the importance of connection, “I live alone and I don’t cook, this is my only homemade meal every week, and I really look

forward to the company and the delicious food.”

When you think about it, every service and program we offer is an opportunity to connect. Meals on Wheels volunteers drop off food to clients – connection through a quick hello and wellness check. Yak and Yarn– connection through a common interest and a place to gather. The Footcare clinic–connection with a nurse and a place to focus on your health. Exercise & Yoga programs–connection with your body, mind and soul and a great group of friends. Transportation–connecting clients with terrific volunteers who make sure there is a ride when you need one. Friendly Visiting–connection to keep the heart full, and special friendships made. Seniors’ Centre without Walls–connection through the phone lines that vibrate with laughter and kindness and fun.

As we age it is often our hope to remain in the home that has been our warm embrace throughout the years. It is a familiar place that houses not only our physical selves but the memories and experiences of a life well lived. The challenges

of aging in place are varied and unique to every person. It could be the loss of a driver's license, decreased mobility, the death of a life partner, or loneliness. Our programs and services are designed to meet the needs of the individual, whether it be a weekly phone call to connect, or drives to important medical appointments.

Thank you for such a wonderful year of human connection. Our stride into 2023 is much more confident knowing the foundation of support we have in our volunteers and this community.

From our home to yours, we thank you for your continued support and wish you a lovely holiday season and

the opportunity to pause and connect in 2023.

Please contact us at SCS if we can help you, a neighbour or a loved one. We are available at 613-258-3203, or at hello@seniorscs.ca. Visit our site at www.seniorscs.ca, or follow us on Facebook!

Holiday Hours

New hospital funding announced

only. It is therefore difficult to predict how the funding announcement will be received by local residents.

Dignitaries,

by Ashley Sloan

Local MPP Steve Clark made a brief visit to the Kemptville District Hospital on December 9 to make an anticipated funding announcement. MPP Clark announced that the Ontario government is investing $1,956,719 this year to support critical upgrades and repairs at hospitals and community health service providers in Leeds and Grenville. Also present at the Hospital for the announcement were Mayor Nancy Peckford,

The atmosphere at the Hospital was positive during the announcement, though the weather was bitterly cold. The news was well received by the Hospital Board. Council had no questions for MPP Clark, and few people were in attendance as the event was open to media

This funding is part of the government's investment of over $182 million provided through the Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund and the Community Infrastructure Renewal Fund to 131 hospitals and 65 community health service providers across the province. "Our government's record investments in Ontario's health-care system are helping to safeguard our hospitals and community health service providers for future generations," said MPP Clark. "I know how important this funding is to residents of Leeds and Grenville, and I will continue to advocate for our community to get the support it needs and deserves."

Of this investment, Kemptville District Hospital will receive $1,264,611, which will be used to replace the current

aging boilers. This plan was inspired by a concern leveled prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, when MPP Clark was invited to take a tour of the boiler room system so he could bring the Hospital's concerns to Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones.

Hospital CEO Frank Vassallo offered gratitude to the Minister of Health for the much needed funding. "These funds will enable KDH to continue to participate in a stronger and better-connected health care system that offers care closer to home," said Frank. "I would also like to thank Steve Clark, MPP, for his unwavering support and advocacy on our behalf."

"This significant investment to Kemptville District Hospital will support crucial upgrades to its infrastructure," said Mayor Peckford. "We appreciate Ministers Jones and Clark's commitment to investing in our hospitals that support the region."

Ontario is providing $175 million to hospitals across the province through the Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund, and over $7.6 million to community health service providers through the Community Infrastructure Renewal Fund. This funding from the province allows its health care sys-

tem partners to address urgent infrastructure renewal needs such as upgrades or replacements of roofs, windows, security systems, fire alarms and back-up generators.

Hospital CEO Frank Vassallo, Brockville General Hospital Vice President Cameron McLennon, and Kerri Choffe, Executive Director of the Country Roads Community Health Centre.

including Mayor Peckford and MPP Clark, meet for a funding announcement at the Kemptville District Hospital on December 9.

The existing boilers at Kemptville District Hospital.

From our home to yours, we wish you cherished time with friends and family and memories made over the holidays.

We are closed from Monday, December 26th to Monday, January 2nd.

Hawkesbury Hawks dive bomb Kemptville 73’s back to back

stick in the lane to put it by Dimitri Pelekos at 1:12. Hawkesbury’s Alex Fournier with helpers from Gagne and Liverman at 3:08 to put it over Jacob Biron to knot it at one. The Hawks’ tie breaker came at 15:35 with a combination from Kirk and Gagne.

Second stanza closed out scoreless with two PP’s opportunities for the Hawks that were shutdown without results.

by the sportsguy

Kemptville 73’s came out flat as the Hawkesbury Hawks swooped into their barn for a Tuesday evening excursion to shoot down a four game win streak for a 4 - 3 victory.

Hawkesbury owned the initial frame to draw first blood when Brandon Clarke assisted from Gagne with Fournier rifled one through a crowd past Jacob Biron at 2:37. An aggressive move from Sauve to Caulfield in the slot so Alex Fournier could return a direct rebound at 4:44 to give Hawkesbury two to zip lead. Brandon Clarke with helpers from Bandu and Fournier notched his second of the evening at 10:15 for the insurance.

Hawks mounted the numbers at 11:29 with extra man as Leithman trailing found Nicholas Brennan in the lane to retire to the dressing room with four marker lead.

After being assessed a double miner at the end of the first, Kemptville were short a man for 3:55, which their special teams controlled. Yakubowski with Bono walked the line onto the tape of Hunter Brazier to snipe it behind Dimitri Pelekos at 12:25 to claw out of a huge hole Kemptville dug for themselves.

The 73’s pushed the last twenty as Campeau combined with Henry to hold the attack in front of the blue paint, and Wyatt Warner retrieved it from the pile to pull

the trigger at 12:52. Jacob Biron out of the net at 18:26 to give Kemptville an extra attacker paid off at 19:51 when Brazier give and go to Whyte so Khaden Henry PG would move them within one. Only 49 seconds left on the clock to knot it and force OT proved unsuccessful.

Kemptville outgunned Hawkesbury by 34 to 33 with 1 of 4 PP and the Hawks 1 of 3.

Back to back battles with Hawks on their home ice on Friday evening, the 73’s couldn’t find redemption as they fell flat with 3 to 2 loss.

Kemptville struck first in the first frame with a man advantage as Hunter directed the attack, back to Merrett on to Khaden Henry PPG

Less than a minute of the third at :35, Thomas Beaudoin assisted by Gelinas with Gagne for Hawkesbury to go ahead by two. Kemptville launched a comeback when Merrett controlled the wall to Bennett to set up Hunter Brazier on the doorstep at 16:49 to make it a one goal differential. The 73’s with Jacob Biron removed from the net for extra man at 18:45 failed to make it even to force OT.

Kemptville outgunning Hawkesbury 47 to 36 with 1/3 PP attempts and no results for the Hawks 3 PP.

Two road trips next week as the 73’s face Navan Grads on Friday evening and then up the valley to meet the Renfrew Wolves on Satur-

day evening.

Next home appearance is with the Smiths Falls Bears on Tuesday, December 20 at 7:30.

Hockey with EDGE… see you around the wall.

UCDSB Students find inspiration in Leadership Conference

conference, which meant she attended a special leadership camp in October and represented the UCDSB on stage at the conference and helped lead students from across the province in breakout sessions and large group activities.

a school that had service puppies come during exams to help lower the stress and anxiety that students often get during that time.

Each school selected students to go in different ways.

of their own schools and communities, and get the real-world learning experience they need to have the confidence to be true leaders at their schools.

Inspiring, motivating, confidence building – these are the words that students and staff from South Grenville District High School in Prescott, North Grenville District High School in Kemptville and Seaway District High School in Iroquois used to describe the Ontario Student Leadership Conference (OSLC) they attended last month in Niagara Falls.

From the three schools, a total of 65 students attended the conference of more than 2,000 secondary students from across Ontario.

"This conference is an opportunity for our students to network with other school leaders, build their own confidence and build their leadership skills. Not just skills to bring back to the school, but skills that will help them at

home and in the community," explained Christine Sloan, the visual arts, Indigenous arts and French teacher at South Grenville, as well as the program lead for arts, guidance, co-op and special education at the school.

The conference runs from a Sunday until Tuesday in early November in Niagara Falls each year. At South Grenville and North Grenville, this conference has become a tradition.

This was Christine's eleventh year bringing students, and she was first introduced to it by North Grenville's French Teacher, Guidance and Link Coordinator, Marla Campeau when she worked with her at South Grenville. For Seaway it was the first time students have attended, but Leader-

ship

it's a tradition she too wants to start. (Link and Link Crew are studentto-student leadership and mentorship programs)

"The confidence these students came back with is amazing. Some students had not really travelled before or been away from home," Carrie explains. "I wanted our students to have that kind of social experience. I wanted our small-town kids to experience things that are bigger than our town."

All students described this conference as being high energy, and a Grade 12 North Grenville Student was given a special opportunity to have a hand in bringing that energy to her peers.

Veronica Rusch was selected as a Spirit Leader for the

"OSLC is an incredible opportunity for high school students across Ontario to meet each other and learn meaningful lessons about leadership. Being a Spirit Leader, I had the privilege of seeing everyone from up on stage, which gave a whole new perspective on just how excited everyone was!" Veronica said. "I definitely stepped out of my comfort space and gained a lot of confidence in doing so. I was so happy to have the support of my friends from school as well. I will never forget the experience."

Alexis Brewer, a member of South Grenville's Energizers (a.k.a. student council) said this conference was good for those who wanted to learn about leadership and learn what's happening at other schools. "Students were really interested in and paying attention and not on their phones or talking," she said.

An idea that stuck with her was when she heard of

At South Grenville, they need to be part of Energizers; at Seaway it was a trip for the leadership class; and at North Grenville, it's by application.

And each school funds their trips differently as well.

At Seaway and North Grenville, there were optional fundraising activities that students could participate in. North Grenville also received support from the Kemptville Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 212. At South Grenville, all participating students did fundraising but Christine also applied for community grants from the Town of Prescott and Augusta Township. Students have since presented to the Prescott Town Council about their experience and will be doing the same for Augusta Township.

From ideas for charity events, school fundraisers, and school spirit activities, to community events – this conference is more than just a weekend away for students. It's filled with opportunities for students to grow as young adults, explore life outside

"As a school, we got much closer. I really got to know other students from my own school and we came together and demonstrated so much school spirit," explained Grade 12 North Grenville student Elyssa Miller. "It was so much fun!"

Her peer, Cole Sheets, added, "I walked away with new ideas for leading groups and have already used some in my Link activities. I recommend you go if you get the chance. We got to see and learn from other schools and come back with new ideas to try out in our own school."

Marla, Carrie and Christine all said they've seen growth in the students who attended and are already planning for next year's conference. "My hope, always, is that students discover personal strengths and gain confidence in themselves. I want them to come back feeling energized and excited about making a positive difference in their school community. I want them to understand that they can make a difference."

Class Teacher Carrie Gilmour said

Final found the sweet spot…Benjamin Campeau connected with Khaden Henry to find Wyatt Warner in the circle for his first of the season during Tuesday evening’s unsuccessful confrontation with Hawkesbury Hawks

BIA 2022 Annual report (Part 1)

The Board of Management (Board) of the Old Town Kemptville Business Improvement Area (BIA) was faced with more difficult choices for 2022. The challenges presented by the pandemic were still impacting too many BIA members, so the Board deliberated on the best way to both try and move forward but at the same time to make sure that no one felt left behind.

Over the past three years, some of the decisions made by the Board were based in the stark reality of the moment and that meant making some strategic sacrifices along the way. Watching fellow business owners as they encountered financial hardships, closed their doors for extended periods of time, laid off staff, reduced their hours, reduced their product & service offerings etc. was

a glaring indication that our members, friends and colleagues desperately needed help. This led the Board to make the right or moral decision to focus on increasing member support rather than turning a blind eye to their suffering. This resulted in a number of changes including prioritizing the increased flow of information. One of these priorities was the change of the monthly BIA newsletter to a more focused weekly news source. News and information were changing rapidly and the Board felt it was critical that members needed to have the latest information at their fingertips. Providing the latest news on everything from government funding opportunities to the latest health unit protocols to local business support programming became the focus of both the BIA

newsletter and the BIA’s social media channels.

Ultimately, the Board decided to continue supporting BIA members as we had done throughout the pandemic to date, but also ambitiously decided to try and seize the opportunity to leverage the community’s unprecedented investment in large-scale community events in 2022. The goal was to leverage this community investment to drive increased tourism-based traffic to downtown businesses potentially giving BIA members a healthy financial boost.

Policy Development Policy development was one key areas of the BIA’s workplan for 2022. This led to the addition of new policies, including a Procurement Policy and a Social Media Policy. Additionally, there was extensive work done on updating the BIA’s Code of Conduct and the BIA’s

Governance. This work was a heavy time commitment, but the Board was quite happy with the end results.

One particular accomplishment of this year’s Board was the development of a new Diversity, Inclusivity and Equality Policy for the BIA. Not originally part of the policy development goals for the year, an opportunity presented itself to show leadership in the community on a very important subject and the Board jumped in with both feet. Despite a lack of local resources to help shape the policy, the Board felt it was a critical area that needed to be addressed in a very thoughtful way. The Board looked to the future and developed the policy with the intention that it was to be a living document that could be adapted and updated in consultation with the Municipality of North Grenville.

‘Tis the season of holiday meals and potlucks

submitted by Saman Shaikh, RD., M.Sc. Registered Dietitian and Public Health Nutritionist

Here are some tips for healthy eating during the holidays.

- Make and enjoy healthy food choices during the holidays using foods from the Canada’s Food Guide, such as vegetables and fruit, whole grains, and protein foods. Choose options that are lower in added sugar, salt, and saturated fat.

- Take the space and time to eat and pay attention to your food without distractions. Be in tune with your body’s hunger and fullness signals, and make

food choices based on your hunger level.

- Eat until you are satisfied but not uncomfortably stuffed. Decline politely but assertively if you’re offered more food than you can handle.

- Don’t skip meals in anticipation of a big holiday meal. Even if you’re going to have a special dinner, it is still important to have regular meals and snacks for the rest of the day. Going too long without eating can make you feel unwell, and when you do finally eat, being too hungry may make it difficult to eat mindfully and you may end up overeating.

- The holiday season

only comes once a year, and part of the joy of the holidays is eating and drinking the foods and drinks you enjoy. Some holiday foods and drinks may also serve a cultural or traditional purpose. Don’t deprive yourself of your favourite foods. Eat and drink what you like without judgment, keep portions sensible, and take the time to savour your choices.

For more information, visit our website at healthunit.org, call us at 1-800660-5853 or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.

FOR SALE

Firewood for sale. Cut, split, seasoned, mixed hardwood. $105/face cord. Call Ken 613 323 5503 20230201

Dry firewood for sale $110 a cord plus delivery fee. Call or text Jon 613-2273650

MISCELLANIOUS

HISTORIC HALL AVAILABLE FOR RENTALS in Beautiful Burritts Rapids! Start a book club in time for cooler weather in a hamlet near walking trails and parkettes. Our hall is well equipped for any gathering or celebration, and we offer very competitive rates. http://burrittsrapids. com

WANTED

Kemptville senior wishes to buy sports cards for collecting #613-215-0835

Looking to rent winter parking near Asa St. Contact 613-545-5420.

Kemptville Area Room. Mature student, studying automotive repair in Kemptville, needs a quiet room with bathroom facilities from September to November and from February to April. Weekdays only. Has small fridge, Kitchen not required.Needs reliable internet access. Call Chris 613-200-7016.

FOR RENT

Rental for winter months. Looking for any truck driver or two who might be looking for accommodations starting the beginning of December. We are located in Kemptville with large drive way.Please call at 613-258-7778 to visit or for more details.

SERVICES

RETIRED CARPENTER

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

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Painting, Demolition, Dry Wall Call Bill 613 774 2922

Hedge Trimming

Small or Tall Call Rob 613-795-1845'

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

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.

Looks at lustfully 29. Stage 30. Fatuous

Runs in neutral

Shack 34. Was later in time

Foreigner 42. Sows 44. Crunchy vegetable 45. Annoyed 46. Happen again 47. Malicious 48. Turn on a pivot 49. A magician 51. Religious ceremony 52. Pitch 53. Break in two 54. Buddy 56. N N N

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

Easy Medium Hard

Solution to last week’s Crossword

The Road to Amalgamation

5. Success or failure?

by David Shanahan

An era came to an end along with the last days of 1997. The South Gower Council met for the last time on December 9, marking the end of the separate municipality that had been in existence for two hundred years. To mark the end, in a departure from normal procedure, the resolution to adjourn the final Council meeting was signed by all five members of Council.

Oxford-on-Rideau also marked the last days as a separate municipality in that cold December, the oldest original township in the new Township of North Grenville, ready to rejoin the separated brethren of Kemptville who had struck out on their own in 1857 and were now becoming part of the new municipality.

The Kemptville Council’s life did not end as cleanly. Although the last official meeting was to be

on December 15, there remained outstanding a question over the sale of some town property which had not been finalised in time. So, on December 17, the property transaction finally completed, the Town of Kemptville ended its days as an independent entity and joined the other two in beginning a new era.

Even then, this most historic moment, the first meeting of the New Township of North Grenville municipal council, was overshadowed by an even more unusual event: the Great Ice Storm of 1998, which struck the area that same week. It was a baptism of fire for the new council and municipal staff, and the use of the W. B. George Centre at the Kemptville College campus was, perhaps, a symbolic bringing together of the residents of the new municipality.

All of the heart-searching, debate, controversy and

conflict that had marked the formation of the new regime had been initiated by the provincial government’s desire to cut costs, make municipal government more efficient and streamlined, and to relieve Queen’s Park of a great deal of expense by downloading services to the new amalgamated bodies.

The question in January, 1998 was: will it work? Will it be a successful experiment, or not?

The claims made for amalgamation were ambitious: taxes would go down; there would be far fewer municipal employees and councillors, and therefore a less costly municipal structure.

In May 2015, the Fraser Institute, a public policy thinktank, published a report on the effects of Municipal Amalgamation in Ontario. It examined the impact on property taxes in the municipalities, and concluded that none of the anticipated cost

Oxford Mills United Church

savings had occurred. On the contrary, it found municipal taxes had significantly increased. In almost all cases, the study found that there had been significant increases in property taxes, in staffing costs for municipal employees, and long term debt for the municipalities between 2000 and 2012. Not only so, but the report found that un-amalgamated and amalgamated municipalities experienced similar impacts, suggesting there was no tangible benefit to amalgamation at all.

The Fraser Institute study tried to discover why amalgamation had not lived up to its promise, and found that many of the unexpected consequences should have, in fact, been expected. There was not enough financial support provided by the province during the transition phase, especially when amalgamation was accompanied by downloading of

new services to the municipalities, including a much higher policing cost structure. There was not enough time given to municipalities to develop a realistic system, something which councillors in all three municipalities in this area had complained about at the time. Other concerns raised throughout 1997 were also found to be well-founded. Before 1998, Oxford-on-Rideau and South Gower were supplied with OPP services at no cost. North Grenville faced annual policing charges of $1.5 million from 1998. Staffing costs did not go down, because the newly amalgamated municipality required far more staff, at a higher cost to taxpayers. At one point in 1997, it was assumed that there would be a total of eight staff needed for the new North Grenville. That assumption was quickly proved to be completely unrealistic.

Failure to adequately consult the public taxpayers led to antagonism against the new system, including among those councillors who had opposed amalgamation and set out to prove themselves right.

This year, we elected the same number of councillors to run a much bigger and more complex municipality than the people of South Gower had a century ago, and less than Kemptville had since 1857. The effects of the 1998 amalgamation project are still with us, twenty-five years later, and it remains with us to sort it all out.

CORRECTION: Note that the Councillor referenced in the Road to Amalgamation, part 3 was incorrectly listed as Richard “Boal”. The correct spelling of the former Councillor’s name is Richard Bole. The Times apologizes for the error.

on-Rideau Public School were built by Ormond, and it was in his workshop that the first Anglican services were held until that congregation built their own building.

by David Shanahan

The news that the United Church in Oxford Mills is set to close soon means that the three original churches in the village will now be gone. The other two, the Anglican and Presbyterian buildings, have already been changed into private residences; both maintaining the exteriors in a way that is very sensitive to their heritage character. Now it will be the turn of the United Church, though what its future will be is still uncertain.

This is, in fact, the third church on this site; the first was built as a Methodist church in 1858, and previous to that the local Methodists met from house to house, with a visiting minister coming through on his circuit of congregations stretched

across Eastern Ontario. The land was bought from Rickey Waugh a couple of years after the church was built, for the princely sum of £5. The building was brick, with large windows along the sides and on each side of the front door, which actually required extra structural supports within the building, as the windows weakened the walls. It was not the last time enthusiastic builders would regret their rushed construction.

A bottle was placed in the cornerstone of the building on September 14, 1858 as a time capsule, containing “a copy of the Christian Guardian, one number of the Prescott Telegraph newspaper”, and a paper noting that the time capsule had been deposited by three Ministers,

David Creighton McDowell, Joseph Kilgour, and Henry Shaler, and at the request of the Trustees of the congregation, familiar names in the community: Horace Hutchins, Reuben Clothier, Samuel Beach, John Russell and Augustus Boyd.

Oxford Mills was part of a circuit, a group of churches sharing a Minister, which included Kemptville, Heckston, and South Mountain. But the local congregation continued to grow and the old building was becoming too small to cater for the increase.

The original building served until 1881, when it was decided to erect a “more modern” church, complete with a spire and belfry. Oxford Mills Methodist Church was now at a point where it

could afford its own resident minister, who lived in a rented house in the village. But the new church proved to be unsound, a second building with construction problems. In 1897, just sixteen years after it was built, part of the building collapsed and the entire structure had to be torn down. And so the present church rose up on the foundations of the old, constructed of common bond red brick with a corner bell tower topped with four turrets. The interior features an intricate pattern of tongue and groove panelling on the walls and ceiling designed and installed by Ormond Barnard, a local resident who had a long career as an inventor and builder. The two almost identical houses across the road from Oxford-

The two congregations, Methodist and Presbyterian, joined together in 1883 to buy land south of the village for use as a burial ground. Burials in the cemetery adjacent to the Presbyterian Church were moved to this new cemetery, and the Anglicans added their own burial ground immediately adjacent to the Union Cemetery land. This cemetery continues in use, even now that the last of the churches in the village is closing.

In 1889 the congregation bought the lot south of the church. This had been the location of the first school building in Oxford Mills. When the school was moved to Maplewood in 1875, the land was sold and a house built there. This house was used as the Parsonage until it was sold in 1913 and the house was moved down the road to its current location at

22 Water Street. The congregation bought the lot to the north of the church in April, 1913 and that house became the new parsonage. It was sold only a few years ago, as the church could no longer afford a resident minister.

In 1925 the United Church was inaugurated when the Methodist Church, Canada, the Congregational Union of Canada, and 70 per cent of the Presbyterian Church of Canada entered into a union. The Methodist Church in Oxford Mills now became the United Church. So many generations have passed through the United Church in Oxford Mills since those early pioneers in 1858. For so long the three churches, and the school, were the focus of community life at a time when Oxford Mills was largely self-contained with a large and active population. The closing of the last church in the village marks the end of an era that is unlikely to be repeated.

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A sketch of the first church building, 1858-1881 The present church building, built in 1897, scheduled to close at the end of the month.

Food banks receive donation from Highway 43 Car Club

Baldwin's Birds

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 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,” Ke-

van 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.

Donations to food banks are popular at this time of year, and are particularly welcome in light of significant 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/.

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

We are ready to go with some of your favourite British Christmas treats!

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

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.

Chronic labour shortage:

Courtesy of Farmer's Forum

Downtown Kemptville Christmas Dec 10, 2022

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

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.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

KLUB 67 Euchre – Fun, social card playing every 2nd and 4th Wednesday monthly at 1PM, September to May. Location: Kemptville Legion, 100 Reuben Cres, Kemptville. Everyone welcome $5., cash prizes.

BREAKFAST, Kemptville Legion! Every 3rd Saturday from 8-10am - $8 for adults, $6 for children 10 and under. Euchre will be held following breakfast, registration starts at 11:30 am.

BINGO, Kemptville Legion, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, doors open at noon

The Upper Canada Musicians' Association and the Music Performance Trust Funds Proudly Present "The Annual Brockville Community Christmas"

Featuring Brockville's own Chris Coyea, Alex Fleuriau Chateau, Megan Quick and the Great Music Guys Orchestra along with our MC Bruce Wylie from Move 104.9 for an hour of fun filled Christmas sing along.

Join us at St John's United Church on 32 Park Street in Brockville, Ontario for two shows on Saturday December 10, 2022 at 3:00pm or 7:00pm. Doors open 1/2 hour prior to show times

Both performances are free of charge for the public. Visit www.uppercanadamusicians.com/performances for seat reservations and online viewing information. Special thanks to our sponsors The Music Performance Trust Funds, St. John's United Church, The Upper Canada Musicians Association, The American & Canadian Federation of Musicians. Truespeed Internet Services and Subway Brockville.

75 % of agribusinesses say they are short-staffed and working longer hours

Horse-drawn wagon rides photos submitted by Larry Belzac

Santa & Mrs Claus at the North Grenville Rotary Millennium Park

MOUNTAIN OF TOYS

Donate new toys for local kids

A tradition of giving

A local children’s toy and furniture business is among many promoting the spirit of Christmas this year, continuing its tradition of donating toys to a local Toy Mountain location. Jordan Loshinsky of JL Woodworking explained that the business has always donated “here and there” throughout the years. Last year, Jordan wanted to make a grander gesture with the donation of a sizable amount of wooden toy cars.

“We decided, why don’t we do something a little more on point?” Jordan said. “We made, I think

it was 24-27 wooden toy cars.” The endeavor became a bigger deal than Jordan could have imagined, since he received donations from other local businesses who wanted to contribute to the initiative.

This year, Jordan made the goal of producing a donation of 50 wooden toy cars, and he hopes to increase the amount of the donation each year going forward. Helping out this year is Perkins Home Building Centre in North Gower, who donated the wood for the toy cars. Jordan had to pick up the tab for the metal axels for the cars out of his own pocket, though of course it was worth it. “We’re quite hap-

py to do it,” Jordan added. He hopes to bring more attention to the initiative so that more local businesses will be on board to contribute in future years.

Different people have different reasons for contributing to the spirit of giving, but for Jordan it’s personal. “We have a bunch of kids of our own,” he said. “There’s lots of businesses at Christmas time and throughout the year trying to give to families in need, and we want to contribute to that. We want children at Christmas time to be included. It’s not food on the table, but it’s something nice and that’s the way that we can contribute.”

The bulk of the work in assembling the wooden toy cars this year took place last weekend, with the help of Jordan’s friend and his oldest daughter. The cars are made from wood, with metal axels and wheels, and a coat of non-toxic paint. They will be donated to a local Toy Mountain location.

JL Woodworking originally opened as a children’s furniture and toy businesses, but Jordan explained that the business has since expanded to serve other needs in the local area, including cabinetry and built-in woodwork. Jordan is hoping that next year the resources and community support will be able to contribute to a donation of 100 cars.

To learn more about JL Woodworking, visit https:// woodbyjl.com/. To learn more about the national Toy Mountain campaign, and ways to contribute, visit https://www.toymountain. ca/.

What a dog’s nose knows

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.

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.

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. An-

other 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

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.

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D R O P O F F A T T H E R O Y A L L E P A G E T E A M R E A L T Y O F F I C E ,

9 P R E S C O T T S T K E M P T V I L L E F R O M N O W U N T I L D E C E M B E

by Brandon Mayer

Elf Dale helps with the 2021 toy car assembly process