Issue 5 2023 February 9 NG Times

23rd annual Sweetheart Brunch is back this weekend

A famous annual fundraising tradition is back this year on Sunday, February 12, after a two year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The last full-fledged Sweetheart Brunch took place in February 2020, just one month before the pandemic shutdowns began. The popular event typically draws in over 1,000 people. Sunday’s event runs from 8:30 am-12:30 pm at the North Grenville Municipal Centre.

“We’re very excited and pleased to be back,” said Sweetheart Brunch

Chair, Jean LeClair. Even though the Brunch was not able to run in 2021 and 2022 due to COVID-19 concerns, many of the event’s sponsors continued to offer their financial support. The event therefore ran “in spirit” for these two hiatus years, with supporters able to provide a donation online.

Jean was eager to offer a word of thanks to the dedicated sponsors who have continued to support the brunch throughout the years. He also noted that new sponsors are always welcome. Anyone wishing to donate can email council5333pms@gmail.com. Jean also noted that the takeout procedures of the event have

changed to make it more accessible.

“We are sensitive to the fact that it’s February, it’s flu season,” said Jean. “There are probably a number of people who are still nervous about being in a crowd, and they might enjoy supporting this.” The Brunch will be set up to handle takeout orders in a better way than in previous years. In order to be efficient, all takeout orders will be packed only with scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, ham, and beans. Jean noted that one of the reasons for this is that people who want takeout likely don’t want to be standing around in a crowd for a long time waiting to be served.

People typically enjoy the social aspect of the Sweetheart Brunch. It’s an opportunity to interact with others in the community and catch up on local happenings. The purpose of the event also makes it easy to support – the money raised is donated back to various community groups.

The Sweetheart Brunch is a tradition that started over two decades ago. It was originally held at the Holy Cross Church, but as the event grew, larger venues were sought. These included the Holy Cross School gymnasium, St. Michael’s cont'd on page 2

continued from front page

Catholic High School, and finally, the North Grenville Municipal Centre where the event is now held. Like most events of its magnitude, the Sweetheart Brunch was built from the ground up into what it is today.

The sit down meal at the Brunch is a hearty meal, including ham, bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs, beans, toast, fruit, cheese, croissants, muffins, juice, coffee, and tea. The cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children over 6, and children under 6 eat free. Come out and support a great cause!

submitted by Ellen Miller

May this year be a happy one for us all. We had to close our doors at the Legion meeting room for so long but we are now ready to reach out to our friends who are down with cancer now and need us to open our doors to them.

The next meeting is on February 15th at 2 pm. I am reaching out to men and women who are suffering from cancer at the moment to let them know that we have all been there or are just getting over it and we want to share and help you in any way for being here to talk with you and to help you feel that we can relate to you at this time. Please join us on the 15th and know that we understand. It is just good as you walk through our meeting door that you know you are among those who know your sufferings and are ready to share our experiences with you.

God Bless and hope to see you there. Members of the cancer group please reach out to your neighbours and friends who you feel also would be interested.

submitted by Jeff Goodman Sustainable North Grenville is working to bring the ever popular and eco-friendly Sustainability Fair to Kemptville on Sunday, April 16, 2023.

This will be the 14th Sustainability Fair since the fair began in 2008.

The event is to be held again at the North Grenville Municipal Centre Community Rooms and

Arena. Presentations and workshops will take place in the theatre throughout the event.

HaFor those new to our community, the Sustainability Fair is an opportunity to connect with small businesses local to our area, learn and share on various topics under the sustainability umbrella, see one of the largest electric vehicle displays in Eastern Ontario and test drive some of the latest models. While some attendees are keen environmentalists, many are simply families coming out for a free, familyfriendly event to see what they can learn. There’s something for everyone!

Local food, local music, tables with local vendors and community groups are expected. The usual space showcasing electric vehicles will be there. Due to the success and excitement last year, additional space will be allocated in the arena for energy efficient home renovation information – specifically addressing the climate change issue.

Watch for more information in the coming weeks. Follow our Facebook page to hear the latest on presentations, workshops, test drive vehicle availability, and reach out to us there if you’d like to volunteer with us! https://www. facebook.com/sustainablenorthgrenville

Class A licensed Mechanics Repairs to ALL Makes

& MTO Safety Inspections

Submitted by John Brooks, who writes, “Another year, another snow sculpture. A beaver this year. It can be seen at 104 Van Buren Street. An improvement this year - floodlights for nighttime viewing!”

Submitted by Colleen Billings

Fundraiser Dinner & Show

The Oxford Mills Guiding Trip Unit for Pathfinder and Rangers is hosting a dinner and a show fundraiser on Saturday, February 11 at the Royal Canadian Legion, 100 Reuben Cr., Kemptville ON. All money raised will be going towards a trip to Calgary, Alberta which includes a trip to the Calgary stampede, hiking and canoeing in Banff and Lake Louise National Parks, and a trip to the largest mall in Canada, West Edmonton Mall. The girls in the unit are so excited as this is the first year end trip since COVID- and some girls have never gotten to experience one of these trips.

The fundraiser is a buffet style Greek dinner with 2 seatings: 5 pm and 7 pm. The girls are looking forward to serving guests chicken souvlaki, rice, potatoes and salad and for dessert, traditional baklava, peach cobbler or gluten free jello.

Tickets are $25.00 per adult and $12.00 per child.

Musical entertainment will be provided by local singer and song writer John Wilberforce, with a special appearance by one of the Pathfinders, Briyanna Wilberforce. Tickets can be purchased by emailing lisa.wilberforce@gmail.com.

Trespassing can spoil everyone’s snowmobiling fun

not to stay within the boundary. The “disrespectful” part of this is the fact that we are a farming community, and we are supposed to look after each other. The “unwise” part is the simple fact that those who disrespect trail boundaries run the risk of trails being closed entirely.

“Don’t bite the hand that feeds you,” as the old saying goes. It means, of course, that if someone is doing you a favour or helping you, you would be unwise to make them regret it. Another common one is “if you give an inch they will take a mile”. It turns out that some local snowmobilers ought to crack open a book of adages.

The local trail network used by those riding ATVs and snowmobiles is a complex one, made possible only by the generosity and community spirit of countless farmers and other landowners who allow trails to pass through their property. Depending on the time of year and the trail in question, a permit is often required to

use the trails. In exchange, the trails are well-groomed and marked with ample safety signage including stop signs, speed indications, turn warnings, and travel point signs. It is possible to take trails from one town to another, meaning that trails can be used both recreationally and as a pragmatic means of travel.

One problem that is certainly not new when it comes to recreational trails is trespassing beyond the defined borders of the trail. Going “off trail”, so to speak, is not only disrespectful, but unwise. Farmers who designate a specific path for recreational vehicles to traverse their land don’t deserve to have their expensive crops or well-prepared farmland torn up by those who decide

The practice of trespassing in recreational vehicles gives a certain double meaning to the phrase “give an inch and they will take a mile”. Those who use recreational trails need to remember that the inch they have been given is enough. When the land being disrespected is local farmland, it gives an almost literal meaning to “biting the hand that feeds you”.

The complaints for the current snowmobiling season have already started to roll in. More trails are being closed and alternative routes being sought each year, and it’s because the few spoil it for the many. The Kemptville Campus property is a prime example of land that is not intended for snowmobilers, but all too often gets used as such anyway. To those who use recreational trails: respect boundaries and obey signage, and think twice before trespassing. It’s about time we thanked the hands that feed us.

A well-used snowmobile trail in Oxford Mills.

Photo by Ashley Sloan by Brandon Mayer

“I love Em y and mu be ue because I read in e newspap ! Love Mike”

Prepare for Winter Emergencies

submitted by Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit

Since December 2022, our region has experienced a few significant winter weather events which may have caused interruptions in our daily lives such as power outages, disrupted holiday plans, driving to and from school or work.

Knowing that several weeks of winter remain, we strongly recommend that you prepare yourself and your family (including pets) for future weather-related storms. Winter weather events can cause power outages, delays in delivery of supplies (including food and medication) and dangerous travel conditions.

It is important to have an emergency kit that can sustain your family for a minimum of 72 hours to help you through times when services may not be readily available. When creating your kit, consider sufficient amounts of non-perishable food that can be prepared without cooking, a supply of bottled water, medication, first aid kit, clothing and blankets. Flashlights and extra batteries, and a portable radio will help keep you in touch with your community. Be aware of where important papers are stored and ensure you can access them quickly if needed. Consider the needs of those who rely on you, including children, those with special needs and elderly parents. Have a plan for where you can meet should you get separated and have a common contact person designated outside of your area so you can let

each other know how you are doing. Use the buddy system to check in on family, neighbours and friends.

It’s always best to stay home during inclement weather, but if you must travel, ensure that your vehicle is equipped with winter tires, relay travel plans to a friend or family member and don’t forget to check in after arriving at your destination. Be sure to keep a winter driving survival kit in your vehicle and always check the weather and road conditions before you travel.

When cleaning up from a winter, storm it’s important to be mindful of the hazards that may exist; hazards such as extreme cold temperatures, icy conditions and heavy snow. These types of hazards can cause injury and possibly death.

Extreme cold temperatures can cause hypothermia and unprotected skin can freeze in as little as 10-30 minutes. During very cold weather, everyone is at risk; however the elderly, infants and children, people taking certain prescription medications, and people with preexisting health conditions are in greater danger.

Icy conditions can increase your chances of falling and experiencing an injury. Take extra precautions when walking on icy surfaces, walk like a penguin (slow with a narrow stride and feet angled out).

Shovelling heavy snow is certainly a work-out so it’s important to know how to do it without running the risk of injury. Being active regularly (150 min a week) and doing strength training

twice a week can help prevent injury as your body will be in better shape when you start. Warm up first, take is slow and take breaks, shovel smaller amounts of snow if the snow is heavy and use proper technique.

Love, Rose

Winter is great IF you are dressed for it. Canadian winters may be a shock, especially for newcomers to Canada. These tips from the Red Cross are helpful for anyone to use before venturing outside in cold weather: Cover your head and upper body to keep heat in. Wear a hat and layers of clothing made of wool or synthetic woven fabrics.

Cover up exposed areas like your ears, nose, cheeks and fingers.

Change into dry clothes as quickly as possible if you get wet in the cold.

Avoid tight clothing or footwear that can impair circulation.

Bring extra clothing along in case you need it.

Shelter yourself from the wind if you feel cold – a tree, hill, embankment or other shield will work

We also suggest checking out the Emergency Preparedness section and Exposure to Hot/Cold TemperaturesLeeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit on our website for more information including fact sheets and links to emergency preparedness sites to help you be equipped and stay safe. You can also connect with us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @LGLHealthUnit for important public health updates. You can also call 1-800-660-5853 with any questions.

COVID-19 Vaccination Statistics

submitted by Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit

MUNICIPAL OFFICE HOURS

UPDATE

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

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

UPCOMING MEETINGS

COUNCIL MEETINGS

Please see the Council agenda for further details on how to participate in Council meetings. All Council meetings will be live streamed on YouTube at: youtube.com/user/NorthGrenville/ featured and on the Municipality’s website at: northgrenville.ca/council-government/council/ meetings-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/council-government/council/meetingsagendas-and-minutes.

• Thursday, February 9, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. (Open Session) Draft Budget Presentation

• Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. (Open Session)

• Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. (Open Session)

• Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. (Closed Session)

VOLUNTEER AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Digital Service Squad Member

The Municipality of North Grenville is seeking to fill one temporary position for a Digital Service Squad–Team Member (12 month contract). Interested applicants may submit a cover letter and resume outlining qualification in confidence to Human Resources by 4:00 p.m. Friday, February 10, 2023. Visit www.northgrenville.ca/careers for details and more information on how to apply.

Summer Student Opportunities – Parks, Recreation and Culture

The Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture is currently accepting applications for various full and part-time spring/summer student positions. For a full list of available positions and information on how to apply, please visit www.northgrenville.ca/careers. Please submit applications to hr@northgrenville.on.ca by 4:00 p.m. on March 10, 2023

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

New bill addressing violence against pregnant women

submitted by We Need a Law

When a pregnant woman is a victim of violent crime, our law is unable to account for her pre-born child in charging or sentencing a criminal.

As of January 30, 2023 a total of 530,282 COVID-19 vaccinations have been administered in the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit (LGLDHU) region since January 2021.

716 COVID-19 vaccines were administered in the previous week.

Our vaccination dashboard, available on our website, has all the details and will be updated again Tuesday, February 7, 2023.

Health Canada reports no elevated risk of mRNA vaccines causing strokes. As of January 1, more than 7 million bivalent mRNA vaccines have been administered to date in Canada and both PHAC and Health Canada have not observed an increased risk of strokes.

Alberta Health Services has declared an outbreak of pertussis (whooping cough) in parts of southern Alberta. Whooping cough can be very dangerous to infants, and is preventable by routine vaccination. By age two, children should have received four doses of the pertussis vaccine. Vaccines are a safe and effective way to protect against many serious diseases.

Scarborough Health Network provides one-to-one confidential phone conversations with a doctor to answer questions about vaccines in a supportive, multi-lingual space.

School Immunization Program

Immunizations given in the school program:

Meningococcal ACYW-135 one dose

Hepatitis B two doses, 6 months apart

HPV 9 two doses, 6 months apart

Dates and locations of school clinics in NG area (beginning with grades 9-12):

Notre Dame Catholic High School – February 17

North Grenville High School - February 23

Any changes to this schedule will be communicated through the your child’s school.

To check what the Health Unit currently has on record for your child’s immunizations – you can use the ICON portal (will need their health card to sign in)

“The Criminal Code states that babies are not recognized as ‘persons’ under the law until they are fully born,” said Anna Nienhuis, spokeswoman for We Need a Law, a national grassroots campaign advocating for legal protection for pre-born children. “As a result of our country’s hard pro-abortion stance, we cannot count any pre-born children as persons under the law, so pre-born victims of crime receive no justice from our criminal justice system.” The Government of Canada and other sources acknowledge that pregnant women are at greater risk of intimate partner violence than other women. “These women and their pre-born children are uniquely vulnerable,” said Nienhuis, “yet our law offers them no additional protection and does not even recognize their child if it dies before birth as a result of a violent crime.” Earlier today Member of Parliament Cathay Wagantall introduced a bill to try to change that. Bill C-311, the Violence Against Pregnant Women Act, would instruct judges to consider pregnancy as an aggravating factor in sentencing, thereby considering any harm done to a pre-born child. This would be a step toward real justice for pregnant women and their children who are victims of violence. More than 80 women in recent Canadian history have been assaulted or killed by an intimate partner, and had their pre-born child die as a result. None of those families had justice for both victims. “In crimes against pregnant women, there are always two victims,” said Nienhuis. “We want the law to see them both.”

The glass tipped over

by Brandon Mayer

What a snowy winter this has been so far! Compared to the last few years, with only my own memory as a source, I believe this winter takes the cake. If thinking back decades rather than years, most will remember snowier winters than this one, as do I. But in recent memory, the dumping of snow this season, and particularly in the last few weeks, has been astounding. When standing in my own driveway I feel like I am in a lonely crater, unable to see in any direction besides out into the street.

Opinions regarding the white fluffy stuff vary greatly depending on who you ask. Some hate it, and some love it. I often chuckle at social media posts in the summer months that feature a picture of a snow-covered street with a caption reading something like “this is coming in only four months”. The humour comes in the form of comments from people who see the photo and act as though their life is coming to a bitter end, as

though we weren’t already keenly aware that we live in Canada and that it snows in Canada, prior to the unsolicited guidance of social media.

Snow has its ups and downs. It can be a pain to clear out of the way, but it’s fun for kids to jump, play, and build in. It is a sign of colder, uncomfortable weather, but is also a symbol of winter fun such as sledding, skiing, and tubing. It reminds us of the January blues, but it’s also associated with Christmas and Valentine’s Day. One could say that the “good or bad” debate when it comes to snow is a perfect example of a classic “glass half full or glass half empty” scenario. For those not familiar with this old bit of philosophy, it’s quite simple. In any given situation, even as the facts remain the same, there will be those who evaluate it in a positive way, and others who see it in a negative way. This leads to the analogy that if a glass is filled to the halfway point with water, optimists will see it as a glass half full, while pessimists will see it as a glass half empty. Un-

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor, Have to reply to Colin Creasey's letter about health care.

All his reasons for the extra cost of private care are incorrect.

Higher costs will not be an issue because clients will use their health card like a debit card, but the money comes from the province. Standard fee for a standard procedure.

Extra billing? I don't think there are a lot of options when it comes to having cataracts removed, or a hip joint replaced. Private clinics might do things differently to save money? Innovation is a good thing.

The public would not pay for capital assets, that's the definition of private, it comes from private money.

Duplicate administration? The Ottawa hospital has 11 Vice Presidents, and

fortunately, I can’t help but notice that people seem to be getting increasingly negative lately. Forget about “glass half empty or glass half full”, it seems that we have just collectively decided that the glass has tipped over. And no, it didn’t have a lid. When it comes to mental health, a positive attitude really does go a long way. Being positive is therefore not just about putting on a persona for those around you – it can be an act of self-care as well.

I have as much reason to complain about the snow as anyone else. Sometime before the last snowstorm, my snowblower stopped working. It’s a minor issue and I refuse to get a new one because I know that “one of these days” I will just fix it, but in the meantime I have been shoveling by hand. It seems that the snow scoop I use is now having to slide up and over hills 5 feet in height in order to dump each load. There is just so much snow that I am running out of places to put it without being able to blow it somewhere! Despite this annoyance, I do enjoy snow. It feels so

Canadian. It reminds me of childhood. It’s great to see kids’ creativity when they manage to make forts and tunnels and other frozen architecture with it. Why hate something that is out of our control, particularly when it’s here for at least a quarter of the year each and every year?

While snow is my current example because… well, look out your window – it is only an example. This isn’t really about snow. It’s about negativity and what it does to us. One psychological study showed that optimistic people can actually live 15% longer than pessimistic people. That’s a significant number. To illustrate, if a pessimistic person had a lifespan of 60 years, this study suggests that an optimistic person could live for 69 years. Nine extra years!

It's time to take back positivity. It’s too cold to take a walk? Put on jacket! There are too many chores to do? Tackle a couple today and a couple tomorrow! Christmas is over? No big deal because Valentines Day and Easter are coming! Shovelling the

snow is too hard? At least it means you can make snow angels with your kids and this weekend will be easy to plan with snowy activities!

The snow example remains a good one, particularly insofar as kids can teach us what positivity means. When is the last time you heard a kid complain about too much snow? Sure, it may be because they are usually not the ones shovelling or driving in it, but it could also be because they are so naturally good at making the most of things. Take your family on a snowy hike, or on a ski trip, or tubing, or sledding, or skating. Don’t see snow as a burden, see it as an opportunity.

None of this is meant to convey that any mental illness can be resolved sim-

ply by “thinking positive”. Instead, I want to implore people to once again assume the responsibility for their own happiness. Yes things are expensive, yes there are problems in the world, yes it feels like we must work longer hours for the same amount of money and have less time for recreation. However, none of these things are a barrier to making the most out of what we have. We must play with the hand we are dealt, and perhaps that means not only seeing the glass as half full, but also working to fill it up the rest of the way. Stay safe and warm this winter, but above all else – have fun!

all the support staff and office space that goes with it.

Staffing shortages? Maybe people wouldn't quit the system if they had 9 to 5 jobs and weren't forced to work overtime.

All operating rooms in hospitals need to be fully equipped to handle anything. A private operating room could be equipped with just what is needed.

There are lots of ways private health care can help without causing the end of the world. Let's give it a try to see what can be done.

Bob Swaren

Dear Editor,

As usual, I was quite disappointed in Mr. Creasy’s lament in the NGT Feb 2/23.

He has lamented the Conservative level of support for public health care and the outsourcing of certain procedures. Canada has just

come through a pandemic that has severely stressed the system, operationally and economically. This is common to almost every public health care system in the western world (Britain, Germany, Netherlands, France etc.). In addition, the western industrialized world is in the midst of the largest labor shortage since WW2. The boomers (post war babies) have been the largest worker contingent in history and have reached the retirement age, many heading for the exits during COVID due to the stresses of coping at work, as well as age. This worker shortage was inevitable. And the public health system was not spared. Has Mr. Creasy noticed that we have experienced inflation since February 2022? He demands that the government increase spending on health care and at the same

time increase wages. At this point we have not faced, as yet, rounds of strikes and protests as in most European nations. But it may soon come. Mr. Creasy asserts that in BC the private health clinics are “poaching” staff from the public health system. I would doubt his assertion! Last week I was at a local lab for tests and that lab had been closed for 3 days of the week. Why? Because of insufficient workers, so they share opening hours with the Winchester clinic. And where are the workers?

As soon as they are trained they go to the public health system as the wages are better by $10/hr. with benefits and pension and union. I also know of hospital RN’s that have joined private clinics. Why? They wished to work closer to home, not pay parking, face traffic daily and not work shifts and week-

ends, as hospitals require. I have a daughter that worked in a private clinic as support staff. She soon moved to the Ottawa hospital for increased wages and benefits. So Mr. Creasy, people do move about for their own reasons. I suppose Mr. Creasy begrudges individual freedom to make choices for themselves, everything being caused by ideologues like Doug Ford!!!

As for higher costs in BC due to the grounds mentioned, would you not be glad you could get a cataract surgery in a private clinic in Ontario, that Mr. Ford will pay for, and get on with life, or would Mr. Creasy prefer that people lose their job because they cannot see well enough to drive to work?

Incidentally, the suggested increase in health care funding of $591/person in Ontario with a population of

14.95 million (2022) would come to 8.835 billion, not 7 billion. Also, Mr. Mayer pointed out that, contrary to Mr. Creasy’s claim, New Brunswick pays the least for its health care system, but no numbers. New Brunswick health care budget for 2022-2023 is 3.2 billion for a population of 812,061 or $3,941 per capita. Ontario 2022 health care budget is 75.2 billion for a population of 14.95 million or $5,030 per capita. Alberta 2022 health care budget is 15.1 billion for a population of 4.6 million (2022) for a per capita amount of $3260. And no one mentions that BC, Alberta and Ontario are the only provinces that pay more into Confederation than they receive. Namely, Ontario (2019) paid $2,000 per capita more out than they cont'd on page 6

received, more than enough to fund our health system. It is yet worse than that.

Ontario has 7.185 million wage, salary and commission workers, approximately half of the total population. So Ontarians pay over $4,000 per worker into Confederation, (28.740 billion) than Ontario receives from the Feds, perhaps to support other “have not” provincial health care systems. Perhaps Ontario is not as wealthy as you think! And how must budgets be strained when Ontario saw a population increase of 300,000 and New Brunswick 25,000 in 2022 (both government estimates).

Willem Van Dam

Kemptville author’s book is going to the moon

now it won’t be just in this world.”

A successful Kemptville author will soon have a dream come true, now that he will be included in the Writers in the Moon project. Michael Blouin is a local author who also has a long-standing fascination with space exploration. Now, as part of the project, his book “Skin House” will be included on a microdisk that will be launched into space later this month.

Michael started writing professionally when he was in his early twenties, though it took years for him to earn his success. He explained that getting an agent in Canada can be very difficult and competitive for young authors, and that the only way to be successful is to keep pushing through and not give up. “I did not get my first big publishing break until I was in my forties, but results may vary!” said Michael.

Michael’s fascination with space has an even longer history. “I am old enough to have watched the first moon landing live on a scratchy old black and white television with rabbit ear antennas,” he explained. “From that moment I have been hooked. Human beings are capable of some horrible things, as we see every day, but for me space exploration represents one of the more noble and awe-inspiring things that we are capable of. I think we need a little more positive awe these days. I know that’s what I’ll be feeling when I get to Cape Canaveral for the launch – the same pad that

launched Apollo 11!”

What is making Michael’s dream possible is the Writers on the Moon project. Michael explained that the purpose of the project is to establish a lunar library or cultural center on a site other than our own planet, similar to the gold record disc that accompanied the Voyager mission. It is not just books going to the moon – this mission also includes a robotic rover that is being tested for inclusion on NASA’s upcoming astronaut landing mission. “The NASA scientific and medical experiments involved in this month’s landing are beyond the comprehension of someone who failed high school science four times – that’s me!” Michael joked. “I truly believe that science is our best hope for a future of any kind, perhaps our only hope. I am just happy to be along for the ride!”

It turns out that ride started off as a bumpy one. Michael missed the original deadline to apply for the Writers on the Moon project, owing to the chaos and confusion of his house burning down shortly before the deadline. Luckily, a friend and fellow author from Newfoundland was able to offer some space on her microdisk for Michael’s book to be included. “We lost everything we have ever owned, so I was not in the best of possible moods at that time, and this news lifted me considerably,” said Michael. “Aside from family and a few friends, writing is the most important thing in the world to me, and

So what book is actually going to the moon? “Skin House”, which won Best Novel in Canada the year it was published. The book is a comedy crime caper not for the weak of heart, as Michael explained, and the entire novel takes place in Kemptville/North Grenville. “You would only recognize that if you live here as places are never actually named,” added Michael. “I can’t tell you how many people have said to me ‘That bar, is it…?’ Yes, it is. Or ‘That street, is it…?’ Yup. Of course, none of the events in the novel ever actually happened. Or maybe some of them did…”

Michael’s newest novel, “I am Billy the Kid” (2022) will also be included in a launch with NASA/SpaceX in 2024. It also has sequences that take place in North Grenville and is a revisionist western with feminist themes. “Skin House” will be launched on February 25 at Cape Canaveral, Florida. Both books are available from the publisher at anvilpress. com, from Indigo or Amazon or anywhere people get books including the North Grenville Public Library. To learn more about Michael, visit michaelblouinwriter.com.

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WIN WITH THE TIMES

The North Grenville Times has partnered with local businesses owned by women to promote International Women’s Day 2023.

The lucky winner will receive an amazing gift basket!

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Kemptville author, Michael Blouin by Brandon Mayer

The NG Photography Club

Here’s the latest news from around the world of the Old Town Kemptville BIA…..

At Monday night’s meeting of the Old Town Kemptville BIA Board of Management, there was an internal election for the positions on the Executive Committee. Congratulations to Dave Leger of Creekside Greens Cannabis who was elected to take on the role of Chair of the Board of the BIA. Dave will be ably supported by former Chair and now Vice Chair Meagan Cummings of the Kemptville Stress Relief Centre.

Sierra Jones-Martel of the North Grenville Public Library was successful in getting re-elected to the position of Treasurer, a position she held previously on the last Board. Veteran Board member Shelley Mitchell of To Be Continued Consignment Shop was successfully elected to the Board Secretary position. These results are welcome news for the BIA, as this new group is a strong one with lots of experience and proven leadership.

A downtown landmark commercial building has been fully renovated and is now available for lease or rent. Known to many as the Butler building for its recent history as the home of Butler’s Victorian Pantry, where former municipal councillor Terry Butler and his wife Josie hosted many regulars for tea, coffee, baked treats and quite possibly the finest lasagna in town. Though Terry has now passed, the Butler legacy lives on. If you’re interested in renting or leasing this unique commercial space, call 613-402-8600.

This week, some eagerly anticipated work has begun in the downtown. The Municipality of North Grenville has now started replacing the light fixtures on the light poles throughout Downtown Kemptville. This project will now see the installation of new light fixtures that will direct the light downward toward the sidewalk and street rather than upwards towards the sky where it is of no value at night. The style of fixture was chosen through a community online survey and fits very well with the look of the current light poles.

Congratulations to the organizers and volunteers of the Kemptville Winter Carnival on doing such an incredible job and for being so flexible and adaptable, especially dealing with the harsh weather conditions. Their hard work paid off as the event was a big success. We look forward to next year’s event!

Club member Serena McDonough created this fun image in answer to this week’s challenge ‘glass’.

In the early morning hours of February 3, Matt from CP Rail finishes a repair on a broken rail near Oxford Mills.

Photo by Ashley Sloan

Six years of Get-ing Cronk’d

had several clients encouraging her to consider opening a studio of her own. “In fact, one went so far as to take it upon himself to secure a web domain for me,” said Rebecca. “That is how the name Get Cronk'd Fitness Studio came to be. After getting the gentle yet firm nudges I needed, in 2016 I began working with the Leeds and Grenville Small Business Enterprise Group in Brockville and created a business plan.”

strangers, but many have become dear friends. I absolutely love our fitness family and am grateful for it every single day.”

valentine’s dinner menu

4 Course $120 for 2 + HST

Tuesday Feb 14th 5:30-8:00pm

A successful business will go through many milestones as it develops and grows. For Rebecca Cronk, owner of the local Fitness Studio “Get Cronk’d”, celebrating six years in business feels just right after surviving and thriving in the wake of pandemic challenges and everything else that has been thrown her way. Along with the help of her mother, Diane, Rebecca has grown a very successful business in challenging times.

Rebecca’s journey started in early childhood. A lifelong athlete since the age of four, Rebecca has always had a passion for training and fitness of all kinds. Long before she even dreamt about opening her

own studio, she was university educated, having earned an Honours Bachelor of Science with a Specialization in Human Kinetics from the University of Ottawa. Rebecca worked as a fitness instructor and then personal trainer in addition to being a competitive body builder.

“Despite all of that, I still didn't feel comfortable walking into a bigger corporate box gym,” Rebecca explained. “I found it intimidating and judgy. It occurred to me that if I, someone with all that sports, gym, and fitness related experience, had all these fears and insecurities about entering a gym, how does someone who is extremely out of shape or overweight feel about walking into a gym?”

Around the same time, while working as a personal trainer in Ottawa, Rebecca

The philosophy of Get Cronk'd is simple – LIFE IS GOOD! “We believe that physical activity should be accessible to everyone because the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of exercise are immeasurable,” said Rebecca. “Our ultimate goal was to create a space where everyone can feel unintimidated, safe, and have a sense of belonging.”

An old saying in business is that the first year is always the hardest, but for Get Cronk’d, the COVID-19 pandemic hit much harder. Needless to say, the business pushed through, with help from amazing clients, of course.

“We would not be where we are today without our amazing clients,” Rebecca added. “Their unwavering encouragement and support have meant the world to us. They may have come in as

OpEd On the road to find out

by Peter Johnson

In the first February edition of the NG-Times, for 2023, Mr. Mayer's article spoke to the condition of roads in North Grenville. It posed the question, 'Are North Grenville roads really that bad?' Potholes were the focus of part of the article. Potholes? A problem? Fixing potholes on gravel roads? What? Let's look at this from the perspective of those of us living on a typical 'United Empire Loyalist' road.

While some might think that it is just terrible that pothole season might soon be upon us, there are those of us who have lived for decades on a road where there are no potholes. Our entire road is like the bottom of a pothole! The road has never seen pavement or surfacing of any kind. Never. Nor will it, soon. Not under the present guidelines and/or requirements. Not under the people making and enforc-

ing the decades-old policy.

(For clarification: this is not a criticism of Mr. Barclay. John has been very attentive to my concerns. Previous administrations have ignored my appeals, but the DeputyMayor has been as helpful as the department of roads and snow removal will permit)

The township has stated that it intends to 'surface' all roads. It is particularly galling and irritating, therefore, to see paved roads being re-paved, while we wait, wondering if we will ever see such luxurious surfacing. Sections of Denison/ Johnston as well as Porter Road, just to mention a few, were upgraded last summer. Upgraded as in: already paved and now, being paved again. That doesn't make us feel important in the least.

While other roads have been surfaced, for decades, and are getting resurfaced, at the rate of what? $600,000 per kilometer, residents on my road can only wish they

Get Cronk’d felt a significant impact from the pandemic. Now steadily recovering, an eventual goal for the business is to grow into a larger location. This is something that has been considered in the past, though the team feels lucky to be in their current location with a “great” landlord. “As our industry continues its return to normal, we will continue to chase our dreams of a larger space in order to create even more opportunities for our clients and community to shine!” said Rebecca.

Want to help the Get Cronk’d team celebrate? You’ll get a chance next month. “We cordially invite everyone to join us for yummy snacks, cake, and coffee at Get Cronk'd Fitness Studio, 9 Clothier Street East, on Saturday March 4 from 2-5 pm,” said Rebecca. “Come see our space, meet our team, and learn about what we have to offer. There will be specials and door prizes throughout the day. There will also be a very special commemorative lifetime member presentation at 3 pm. Hope to see everybody there!”

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4th Course - Rosewater Creme Brulee children menu $15

Mac n Cheese with Veggies or House made Chicken Fingers & Mash & Veg

Full bar, cocktails, and specialty coffees available. Live entertainment with Bruce Enloe.

Curbside Valentine’s Day Menu 2023…

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were so lucky. We remain just one small step up from Pioneer Days.

Sure, we have culverts, and we were even treated to some fresh gravel a few years back, but overall, we drive on rocks: not good for the paint job on any vehicle. Sections of the road are a perpetual washboard. Dust so thick you can't make out what kind of vehicle is coming at you, is common, for many months of the year. During the winter, the road is snow-covered, packed down to the consistency of ice. In the summer, to keep the dust down, a salt solution is applied to the road. That must be just lovely for our ground source wells.

A reality of dirt roads is that they are significantly narrower than paved or surfaced roads. When approaching large farm vehicles or construction equipment, you must pull over as far as you can. Deep ditches

and snow banks make this a hazardous gamble. Because the policy of snow clearing is to plow the snow towards the mailboxes, the postal service feels the same, when it becomes hazardous road conditions; they will only deliver to group mailboxes and stay off of the narrow, colonial-era, dirt roads.

The policy that nothing or no one can delay or stop the delivery of the mail does not apply to those who plan the snow-removal routes, apparently. They must have a special exemption.

Requests to reconsider this policy, over the past 25 years, have consistently been met with the same response: silence or refusal to change.

So, my fellow North Gremlins, we who are stuck with the poorest of all roads in the area, can only wish that we had the same pothole problems as the rest of the populace. But, alas, when

Corporate Events & Meetings, Christmas Parties, Special Occasions & Weddings 820 Heritage Dr. Kemptville Campus 613-324-3136 info@catereda airs.ca www.catereda airs.ca

you have lived on a dirt road for 25 years...probably the only one this close to the center of Kemptville...and it looks like it will be another long, wait for any change, I have to take solace in the fact that:

a) I can always sell-out and move or...

b) at my age, I won't live long enough to see another 25 years of gravel, dust and buried mailboxes.

Peter

Barrister and Solicitor

General Practice

Corporate / Commercial Family Law Estates

Real Estate Wills & Powers of Attorney

tom@tmblaw.ca

613.258.1277

222 Prescott St., Kemptville

Rebecca Cronk from Get Cronk’d Fitness Studio

Johnson (Upper Oxford Mills...the primitive, colonial Portion)

THOMAS M. BYRNE

by Brandon Mayer

A day w h real he t

Day. Reflecting their ancient Roman origins, Valentines commonly depict Cupid, the Roman god of love, along with hearts, traditionally the seat of emotion. Birds are often included in illustrated cards, as February was thought to have marked the beginning of mating season for birds. Traditional gifts include candy and flowers, particularly red roses, a symbol of beauty and love.

The Venerable Bede, in the “Ecclesiastical History of the English People”, written in the 8th Century, refers to Valentine as an historical character. Bede is a credible writer on history, medicine, poetry, and science, and is lauded as “one of our bestwritten sources for early English history”.

oddly enough, in a church in Dublin. It seems that Pope Gregory XVI donated them to the Carmelite order from their previous location in the cemetery of St. Hippolytus in Rome. They are now on display in Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church in Dublin, Ireland, where they have been since the 19th Century.

But all of this is probably irrelevant to those romantics, and under-pressure lovers, as they search for just the right card, just the right wording, to provide their loves with an expression of their love on February 14 every year.

by David Shanahan

It would be easy to think of Valentine’s Day, February 14, as another Hallmark invention, designed to sell greeting cards and create annual anguish on people everywhere as they try to find the perfect card for the object of their affections. But, in fact, Valentine’s Day is an ancient festival, the origins of which may be rather unclear, but rest with certainty in the records of history.

The day is named for Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr of the 3rd Century, though, as noted, there is some uncertainty about which of two, possibly three, martyrs named Valentine is the main source of the celebration. One of these died around 270 AD during the reign of emperor Claudius II, and the story surrounding him is that, before he was executed, he healed his jailer’s daughter of blindness. The day before his death, he wrote her a letter which

he signed “from your Valentine”. Hence the tradition of signing Valentines with a similar wording.

Another possible Valentine was said to have secretly married Christian soldiers in the emperor’s army, and against the commands of the emperor, and so is associated with romance and secret love. However, since Christians didn’t join any army before Christianity became the state religion, and as the emperors had no objection to married soldiers, this tradition lacks some credibility.

But that there was a Valentine, and that he was gave rise, somehow, to the tradition of Valentine’s Day, is rather more historically supported. Some believe that the Day is a Christianised version of the older Roman festival of Lupercalia, which celebrated the coming of Spring in mid-February each year. However, that theory has been firmly rejected, as there was little in common with the events of Lupercalia and those of Valentine’s

References of Valentine’s Day go far back in historical and literary records. The Victorians, of course, are often credited with expanding the mythology surrounding the day, but commercially produced Valentine cards date from the late 1700's. Earlier still, cards and messages on Valentines Day appear from the 1500's, and Shakespeare referred to the day in Hamlet, when Ophelia says:

"To-morrow is Saint Valentine's day, All in the morning betime, And I a maid at your window, To be your Valentine.”

It is thought that one of the earliest surviving valentines in English appear to be those in the Paston Letters, written in 1477 by Margery Brewes to her future husband John Paston "my right well-beloved Valentine". An even earlier reference can be found in Geoffrey Chaucer’s book, “Parliament of Fowls”, in 1382, and in a few other sources from the 14th Century.

Religious relics are a less reliable source of information on history, but relics of Valentine are held in a number of locations, including,

Of course, for those who have already found the love of their lives, every day is Valentine’s Day and there is no need for cards and flowers to prove their love and devotion. Or maybe that’s what they tell their love when they forget to buy a card?

OpEd

submitted by Steve Gabell

I was somewhat shocked to recently read an article published in Farmers Forum (and reprinted in the NG Times) decrying the COP 15 agreement to protect biodiversity. Biodiversity is literally the diversity of life on Earth, and humanity has done an incredible job in reducing biodiversity just in recent years.

It’s estimated that 60% of the mammals on Earth by weight are livestock, that humans account for 36% and that wild mammals make up just 4%. For birds, poultry makes up 71% and wild birds only 29%. We have also seen a precipitous decline in insect populations, with numbers falling at a rate of 2% per year. Many scholars consider us to be in the midst of a sixth mass extinction event, with species extinction rates estimated at 1,000 to 10,000 times higher than natural extinction rates.

Why should humans care about the loss of population in other species, or even their complete disappearance? All life on Earth is interconnected and we are related to every other species on Earth. Humanity does not exist in a vacuum, separate from the natural world, rather we are utterly dependent on it. We rely on the natural world for the food that we eat, the water that we drink and the air that we breathe.

Insects are responsible for pollinating 75% of global crops, and about 80% of wild plants. Plants underpin ecosystems, and insects are just as important, acting as the first step in food webs for many other species. The entomologist Doug Tallamy’s research has shown that a single pair of chickadees must catch between 6,000 and 9,000 caterpillars to rear just one clutch. Fewer insects

means less food for humans and a decline in many other species which will further impact on the ability to support life on Earth.

There are many culprits behind the decline in biodiversity. Agriculture is responsible for 90% of global deforestation, and accounts for 70% of global freshwater use, significantly altering the habitats available for wildlife and pushing species out of their ecological niches. Use of pesticides and monoculture crops further deplete habitats. Light pollution and climate change are also contributing to the decline in biodiversity.

Doug Ford’s plans for development in the Greenbelt and stripping the authority of Conservation Authorities to review development applications for impacts on woodlots, fish habitats, or species at risk further threatens natural habitats and wildlife populations in Ontario.

We can make changes to address the loss of biodiversity we’re seeing across the world and in Ontario. Reducing pesticide use will reduce the damage we are inflicting to insect populations. Reducing fertilizer use and subsequent nitrate run-off reduces eutrophication thus increasing biodiversity in aquatic habitats. Eating less meat, particularly beef, reduces deforestation and habitat destruction and reduces the overall amount of food required to feed people. Over 75% of global farming land is used to support livestock yet this produces only 18% of the world’s calories. Changing from monoculture lawns to a more diverse landscape featuring a wide range of native plants is something everyone can do.

Ultimately, we need to use less of the plan-

Is it safe to have an alcoholic drink before dinner?

makes tiny blood platelets more slippery, less likely to stick together causing a fatal coronary attack.

No one in our family has ever needed to cling to a telephone pole on the way home after drinking too much alcohol. Rather, we have long held that moderate amounts of alcohol can be healthy. But are we right? Now, a new Canadian report claims more than one or two drinks a week increases the risk of health problems, such as heart disease, stroke and cancer.

Professor Dan Malleck of Brock University, who specializes in alcohol regulation, and who has written several books on this topic, is skeptical of these generalized guidelines. He says they remind him of the Temperance Movement of long ago. Moreover, he states, the study used relative rather than absolute risk. This means that just three ounces and a half of alcohol shockingly increases the risk of larynx cancer by nearly 100 per cent! But this cancer

et’s land for human activity. Over 40% of all land globally has been converted for food production and Doug Ford is promoting sprawling development instead of the sensible densification proposed by Mike Schreiner and the Ontario Greens. The late, great naturalist E.O. Wilson launched the Half-Earth project to protect half the land and sea in order to manage sufficient habitat to reverse the species extinction crisis and ensure the long term health of our planet. To quote Sir David Attenborough, “It’s surely our responsibility to do everything within our power to create a planet that provides a home not just for us, but for all life on Earth.”

is known to be primarily related to the smoking of tobacco.

The possibility of developing cancer from alcohol is real. Some studies do show an increase in a variety of malignancies. So, if you do not consume alcohol, do not start. Perhaps this decision will prolong your life.

But the attempt to extend your life by the abstinence of alcohol is a nebulous affair. For instance, if you say “no” to a glass of red wine before dinner, would this alone increase your longevity? Unlikely.

It’s been said, “alcohol is for the elderly what milk is for the young”.

Getting older is hazardous but alcohol can mediate it, particularly for the cardiovascular system where blood flow to the heart and other organs decreases with age. Alcohol dilates blood vessels, decreasing the risk of coronary attack. It also increases good cholesterol. Possibly even more vital, it

What about the psychological effects of alcohol?

As a surgeon, I often used a routine post-operative order which sometimes surprised nurses. They would counter, “But it’s never been done before!” The order allowed patients who typically enjoyed an alcoholic pre-dinner drink at home, to enjoy one on the second post-operative surgical day, normally the most difficult day of recovery.

It also reassured patients that they were not going to die, but were getting better.

Why do we accept the potential risk of partaking one or two ounces of alcohol daily? Because it relieves the chronic pain of an aging body more effectively than drugs. Or because it relaxes the soul after an intense day of work. Not recommendations for others, but the plain facts for us.

Winston Churchill, former Prime Minister of Britain, and a noted heavy drinker, made an amusing pronouncement on this issue. He stated, “I’ve taken

Baldwin's Birds

more out of alcohol than alcohol has taken out of me.” He started his alcohol routine early in the morning and continued during the day. He was hardly the poster boy for the Temperance Union. But he lived to 90 years of age with his mental facility intact.

Past studies such as France’s National Institute of Health and Scientific Research reported an interesting finding. Elderly people who drank moderate amounts of wine were less likely to suffer from senility and Alzheimer’s Disease.

We also know that Hippocrates, “the father of medicine”, supported the use of alcohol. Although we are not religious experts, we are told that Jesus transformed water into wine!

One of us now in the 100th year of life, hell will freeze over before this doctor dispenses with a pre-dinner cocktail. Does anyone lay blame?

to have survived it all, and are now experiencing some quite cold, but sunny days.

One such bird is our delightful "Upside-down Bird", the White Breasted Nuthatch, which I managed to get a picture of as it fed on one of my peanut feeders surrounded by the overhanging

icicles glistening in the sun. The frozen and sometimes watery stalactite formations don't seem to put the birds off from feeding, so I have no concerns for their continuing welfare. In fact they, the icicles, provide a little contrast to show up and enhance their somewhat drabber winter coloring, as does the pure white fresh snow for those birds who are ground feeders. A good example of this are the Rock Pigeons and the Mourning Doves and some of our other birds, like the Cardinals and Bluejays. Perhaps you too have noticed the sharper bird colors when you are trying to cope with, and seeking some enjoyment, on these cold wintery, snowy days. Stay safe and well.

Cheers, John Baldwin

The Beauty and limitations of winter

by Jill Woodley

Hello February! The short and sweet month of chocolate, the bluest of skies and longer days that lead us into Spring. It is also a time many feel alone with the cold weather and icy conditions, limiting leaving the home for the simplest of things. Meaningful connections with older adults who are at risk of isolation is critical. SCS is a volunteer driven organization. This means the programs and services often rely on trained and dedicated volunteers to facilitate them. Let’s focus on two programs that are designed to support independent living, while encouraging socialization and human connection.

Lacking access to transportation is one of the factors the National Seniors Council’s Report noted when studying the risks for seniors aging in place. In January 2023, there were 102 drives supporting members of North Grenville. These drives ranged from Kingston to Merrickville; Ottawa to Winchester. The transportation service relies on volunteers to drive clients to medical appointments, in addition to other trips like to the grocery store and to inhouse programming at SCS. Recently, a member of the community, who was not familiar with SCS, called to inquire about the transportation service. They were scheduled for a minor surgery that required them to have the support of a driver

due to the nature of the procedure. It was new to reach out to someone other than family and friends, but they realized that living independently sometimes meant finding other solutions to complement and support their living situation. The phone call opened up a conversation this community member was reticent to start, but in the end the reassurance of a drive and understanding the breadth of SCS services was a first step to knowing the support is there when they need it. Other clients use the service to access social activities at the centre, which in turn decreases social isolation and provides an opportunity to meet with friends without limitations. Volunteer drivers not only provide an essential service, they often lend a compassionate ear and reassurance during stressful times. They are part of the overall solution to supporting older adults to live independently at home, and a vital human connection for those who face isolation.

The Friendly Visiting program matches volunteers with clients for in-person or telephone visits designed to provide essential human connection. The scenarios for matches are not limited to people living alone, they also provide an opportunity for caregivers to take a moment to recharge while volunteers visit. Often it is the family, or a caring neighbor who reach out to SCS as

a proactive response to a lonely living situation. SCS volunteers provide weekly visits that enhance a sense of belonging for clients, and a connection to community. It is an opportunity to provide reassurance for families who are concerned for their loved one, and to instill a sense of value in someone who may be feeling alone and disconnected. The winter months can be especially long. A friendly visitor match is an opportunity to help break the cycle of loneliness, and enhance both mental and physical wellness.

Winter is here with all its beauty and challenges. The programs and services at SCS are designed to provide the solutions you, or your loved one may need to encourage health and wellness while living independently. To inquire about volunteering or becoming a client, please reach out at 613-2583203 or visit our website at www.seniorscs.ca.

CROSSWORD

Classifieds

Classifieds

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

For Sale: Never used 1/3 horsepower Emerson motor. $100 firm. Call Reg - 613 258 7606

MISCELLANIOUS

Hunter Education Course on Saturday March 4th in Burritts Rapids. Please contact Kerry Coleman at 613-791-7515 or kerrycoleman@xplornet.com.

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

Lead Guitar player wanted - Cover band (five members of ‘somewhat older’ vintage) doing rock and country hits from 60s to 2000s – looking for lead guitar player. Call/text 613404-3182

Looking to rent farmland for cash crops. Call or text Mitch @ 613-262-1204. (8 weeks)

FOR RENT

SHORT TERM RENTAL Delightful 3 bedroom house, Weekends/weekly/monthly, Fully furnished. All in Private road off

1000 Island Parkway. No pets. No smoking. Nightly(min 3)@$245.00. Phone 613-258-3807

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

Call Bill 613 774 2922

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING available on a monthly basis or occasionally Jackie 613-821-6161

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Kemptville Horticultural Society February Meeting Wednesday February 15, 2023 at the Kemptville Pentecostal Church, 1964 County Rd. #43, Kemptville. Our speaker will be Paul Gellatly, "The Tattooed Gardener", speaking on “Small Gardens". Everyone welcome.

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

North Grenville Duplicate Bridge Club Bridge, Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptville, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at

All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155

ACROSS

1. Rational

5. Neighbor of Pakistan

10. Snake sound 14.

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

Easy

Solution to last week’s Crossword

Cardiac symptoms for some women to watch for

submitted by Louise Arsenault

I was compelled to write about my own experience after hearing the news about the lady from Cape Breton, NS a few weeks ago, who died after waiting in the ER for 7 hours and had called her husband to pick her up and then went home. Within an hour, her symptoms increased and he took her back to the hospital but they couldn’t revive her, she suffered a Myocardial Infarction, “Heart Attack”. A week or so later, the family came forward in the media, hoping their experience could save others who might experience similar symptoms. Her symptoms were severe arm pain and jaw pain. She had NO chest pain or shortness of breath. She showed symptoms that some women can present with, along with a few others I will list later. I can’t remember if she had any blood work done when they first took her history. There is a blood test they do in the ER which will confirm there is a cardiac problem.

In the last months of 2018, I gradually noticed

a left side jaw pain which radiated along the left side of my nose. It wasn’t severe, but I had it checked out at my dentist and that was negative. In the days that followed, I would feel a “sort of heavy feeling” in my left arm, as well as the jaw discomfort. Both things may have lasted a few minutes. It was not a severe pain, so I didn’t get alarmed. As the weather got cooler and I was out walking to an exercise group, I noticed it more, but once inside, it disappeared. I mentioned it to my doctor who ordered me an ECG the next morning, which was negative. She also suggested I go to Emergency at the Winchester District Memorial Hospital if these symptoms lasted longer than 15 minutes. On a Friday morning, I felt these symptoms for about 2 hours, again not severe, but I went to the ER and said my Doctor sent me. You would never know I had a problem looking at me and my ECG showed nothing. They did the blood work, which takes about 4 hours to get the first result, and they said we would do the same blood work again.

Tid bit musings

by Elva Patterson Rutters RSSW

Did you know there is no such legal/social identification as bad parenting or good parenting? Parenting is divided into three categories. The authoritative parent, the jelly fish parent or the brick wall (authoritarian) - those are the categories defined by sociologists. Who are you? and when are you? and what is the best selection?

The brick wall or authoritarian resonates with historical early years- "yes sir, yes ma'am" and onto the task now. There was no room for negotiation, explanation nor plea-bargaining. In those times, if you got the strap at school, you got it again at home for the same misdemeanor! This style works for all-around legal and safety issues. The issues were well defined and subject to the administering of consequences.

The jelly fish style was associated with those who had parents not seemingly aware of what or where their youngster was. Any answer was never prefaced with a yes or no. It was do as you please, and many did as they pleased. This was deemed the pushover parent or they don't care persona. They may well have chocolate cake for breakfast and no set mealtimes. This style does not provide a child with a framework of what is expected and when. Very roller-coaster in application.

The authoritative parenting style is the more respected style, lending to a child understanding and instituting the consequences. The youth asked permission, received the perimeters of expectations and were versed in the consequences for non-compliance. Consequences were/are carried through.

At one time or another, we deploy all styles at varying situations. You are the brick wall parent when it comes to safety, and legal perimeters. You are a jelly fish when you say have an apple, orange or banana. You are authoritative when you say before you play in the street, if there are no vehicles, eat some fruit, put peelings in garbage and have fun! The extension of application is far more than explained, but well worth a self evaluation of your "style!" Remember you are the child's parent not their friend- true for teenagers- be the parent!

After another 4 hours it was confirmed, so I was admitted while I waited for an appointment at the Ottawa Heart Institute. They do an Angiogram, which shows them heart arteries and vessels. There were actually three places that I had some blockage. One was 95% blocked, so it was cleared and a Stent inserted. The other two had only 50% and 30% blockages, and they don’t Stent unless the blockage is at least 70-80%. That might have even changed over the past 4 years. I’ll not go into the details of how it’s done, but you are not put under an aesthetic, just a relaxant, and they ask you not to move. If you wish, you can watch on the very large screen that the Doctor uses while doing the procedure. A nurse will watch you in the recovery room for 3-4 hours and then you can go home. I didn’t feel any discomfort whatsoever after, and the symptoms were gone.

We need to inform the general public about these not so obvious symptoms that some women exhibit.

1. Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, full-

ness or pain in the centre of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.

2. Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

3. Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.

4. Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

5. As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women may experience other symptoms that typically are less associated with heart attack, such as shortness of breath, nausea/ vomiting and back arm or jaw pain. Notice next time when you see an ad on TV about Heart Attacks, take note— no mention about women who can experience the above symptoms. I had never heard of these other symptoms four years ago. We need to spread the word, AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

Amelia Earhart

submitted by Donna Ross, MDHS

The Merrickville and District Historical Society kicks off the 2023 monthly lecture series on Tuesday, February 28 , 7 pm at the Merrickville Legion with an intriguing story about Amelia Earhart, the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

Mike Venables will speak about this in his presentation: “Amelia Earhart – The Woman and The Mystery”.

As a woman, Amelia Earhart was a trend-setter in society at a time when ambition was seen as “un-ladylike”. As a pilot, she was a trailblazer and achieved many firsts. For these traits alone, her memory would live on but the mystery surrounding her disappearance ensures that she will remain an historic figure for generations to come. The presentation will highlight Earhart’s contributions to history as a woman and an aviatrix and spend some time examining the various theories of what happened to her and her navigator on that fateful flight in July 1937 over the Pacific.

Mike Venables is an aerospace design engineer and a pilot who has long been fascinated by mysteries of the air. He is now living in Merrickville.

If you are an aviation enthusiast, enjoy a mystery or appreciate history, please join us for an evening of facts and intrigue. All are welcome.

Time to build each other up

by Marguerite Boyer

Due to an impending storm a few weeks ago, I had to cancel an appointment at the Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus. When talking to a staff member there, I was informed that my staples had to be removed as soon as possible, and I was either to contact my own doctor, or go to the Kemptville Hospital emergency to have them removed.

Okay, that sounded good in theory. Closer to home, each only a five minute drive away from me. So I called my doctor’s office in the morning, only to be told by a recording that due to technical updates no one was available to answer my call. Phones would be back up by the afternoon and to call after one. So I called later, only to be placed on hold for an hour and a half before anyone answered. I put my speaker phone on and went about my tasks while on hold. Once ‘a real person answered’, there was no apology for having kept me on hold for so long. I could hear the tension in the person’s voice at the

other end of the line. I was informed that the nurse was off sick and she had no clue when she would be back, so try and call again the following day. I wasn’t happy but what could I do, other than go spend hours at the emergency.

I thanked her and called back the next day. One thing I did notice, that on the recorded message at the clinic, it asks people to be patient, and to be courteous, due to the long delays they are experiencing due to staff shortages. Yes, we are hearing that a lot. This had been my second surgery for a hip replacement, and this time around, I noticed a huge difference in pre-op and post-op in recovery. The staff were over burdened. It was so clear. But even with this to deal with, they treated me with kindness and compassion.

It got me thinking how we have taken so much for granted for so long. When was the last time you thanked someone for a service they provided. At the fast food take out, a restaurant, or whatever? To my

mind, the staff at the hospital deserved more from me. I did thank them, as I left, and told them how appreciative I was of the care I received.

When I finally got to see my own doctor, which was the next day, I mentioned to him the hour and a half I was on hold, and the recorded message. He said it is unbelievable how rude people have become and how angry people are since Covid.

Why has Covid changed us so much? Is it because the service we had before is now in the past? I am aware now that every time I go out for a meal, I am grateful that the establishment is able to be open, and that there are staff to serve me, maybe not as soon as I would like but I do get served. But I am not sure where all the anger is coming from? And what gives you the right to yell and scream at someone over the phone or think it right to post nasty comments about someone on social media. What does it accomplish? That person you just screamed at or posted about, perhaps lives in your community, has feelings just like you, and

surely deserves to be treated kindly and with compassion? In the end, what does it achieve to debase someone? Does it ease your anger and frustrations?

I, for one, am so grateful for the service we still have. I no longer take it for granted. Yes, we may have to wait longer and have more patience. I am just so grateful to be able to go out after the years of self–isolation many of us experienced.

So rather than voice your anger at the other human being, take the time to think how lucky we are to live in such an amazing community. I am not sure where your anger is coming from, but please take the time to think about the other person you are directing it at. Perhaps they are also having a bad day and coping as best they can, given the circumstances. Let’s build people up, not tear them down. Surely we are better than that!

The Food Corner

by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville

Garlic is a health food. Unfortunately some restaurants use it to mask “food in a bag”, those dishes that come from central kitchens and sold to unsuspecting patrons. Fresh garlic as part of a well-thought out recipe gives great depth of flavour to what you are cooking. So, I feel really sorry for those good folks who are allergic to this “magnificent tuber”. This week’s recipe, Broiled Garlic Chicken is another one of those simple dishes that will put smiles on your family’s faces and give you the reputation of a Cordon Bleu chef.

Broiled Garlic Chicken

Ingredients

4 large chicken breasts, skinless and boneless (about 2 pounds worth)

½ cup of lemon juice

5 tablespoons of olive oil

½ cup of dry white wine

8 cloves of garlic, minced or 8 tablespoons of crushed garlic

2 bay leaves, crumbled

2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon of soya sauce

1 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation

- Wash your raw chicken in hot, then cold water and place in a flat pan

- Mix all of the remaining ingredients into a marinade and pour over the chicken

- Make sure all the surfaces of the chicken are coated; add more liquid as needed

- Marinate, covered and in the fridge for several hours or even a full day

- Remove the chicken and reserve the marinade

- Place the chicken on a rack in a broiler pan

Broil till the chicken is done through, while basting with the reserved marinade.To go with the chicken, you may wish to plop a couple of tablespoons of butter in a pan and fry up a couple of large red or green peppers, with the seeds out and cut into strips or squares. Add a pound of medium-size mushrooms that you have cut in half and maybe a medium size Vidalia onion. Toss them together in the pan till they are sweated but still firm. While you are cooking your chicken and veggies, prepare a couple of cups of Basmati rice and place the cooked rice on a large serving plate. Distribute the cooked veggies over the rice and then place the cooked chicken on top; if you want to get really fancy, you can cut the chicken in diagonal slices. A sprinkle of parsley flakes also looks nice.

This dish goes extremely well with a cold Chardonnay, either oaked or unoaked, depending on your taste buds. Stay warm and healthy as we get through winter. Best wishes from pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

The Weather with Connor

or anything, just a quick bout of heavy snow followed by flurries. It dropped less than 3cm across the entire region.

featuring Connor Mockett

Hello, everyone! Welcome to the second installment of The Weather with Connor. We’ve got a few things to recap in this weeks column, plus a few things to talk about for the future in the month of February.

The region did see a few minor snow events in the last couple weeks, as well as a couple bigger storms. It has been quite active, as the month of January brought Eastern Ontario snow totals that were well above the normal for that month. The normal is about 60cm, the region saw upwards of 90cm.

The first minor snow event was on Sunday, January 22 when we got grazed by the northern tip of a snowstorm in the US Northeast. This grazing brought just a few centimeters across the region, and was only a minor inconvenience. Roads were slightly messy, but the most annoying part from this one was having to clean your car off.

The next minor event was actually the next day, on Monday, January 23. This one was just a quick, although heavy, snow squall that happened right at the time of the morning commute. It didn’t make the commute all that treacherous

Then came one of the biggest snowstorms of this winter season so far. The January 25/26 storm packed a punch, with strong winds up to 70km/h, and very strong snowfall. Winchester itself, which I measured, saw 6cm in a single hour on the evening of Wednesday the 25th. There were also many reports of thundersnow (a thunderstorm but with snow) around the Chesterville, Finch, and Berwick areas. I ended this storm on Thursday the 26th with a measurement of 25cm in Winchester.

The next minor event came on Saturday, January 28, when some heavy snow squalls moved through parts of the region that morning. Some of them were strong enough to create near zero visibility while driving, which I would know considering I drove in one of them on the 417 just past Stittsville. I couldn’t even see where the lines for the road were. These squalls dropped a quick 2-4cm in places that saw them, but they were scattered, so many people didn’t even realize the squalls happened at all.

Then comes Sunday, January 29. This one was a bit of a surprise for a lot of people. Due to the cold temperatures on this day (it was around -10 during peak snowfall), the snow accumulated faster. When I did my forecast, I mentioned I was very confident in 10-20cm. The entire region lived up to that, including some un-

confirmed reports of nearly 30cm along the Seaway. Winchester got 14.7cm, and the Ottawa Airport reported 18.6cm.

Instead of snow, now we get to talk about some absolutely frigid temperatures. Albeit short, the Polar Vortex showed itself for the first time this winter from the evening of February 2 until the afternoon of February 4. These temperatures brought the first Extreme Cold Warning of the season from Environment Canada. The temperature on the morning of Friday, February 3, was around -30, with the windchill close (if not below in some areas) to -40. The daytime high that Friday didn’t get much better, with the high coming in around -23, and the windchill in the mid -30’s.

Overnight Friday the 3rd and into the morning of Saturday, February 4, the temperature across the region was anywhere from -29 to -35 (without the windchill).

With the windchill, it was anywhere from -37 to -43. Absolutely bone chilling.

As I type this, there are a couple minor snow/rain

events on the way for the week of February 6 through the 10th. Both of these will be in the recap of my next column, as they will have already happened when this gets published, but right now it looks like 3-6cm of wet snow is possible on Monday, January 6, with localized areas of 7-12cm. There will be rain involved with this one, as the temperature will be above 0.

The next system will be happening right as this gets published on February 9. This storm is completely up in the air, it could be a bunch of wet snow or a bunch of rain with temperatures around 7 degrees.

In general, aside from the first couple days of the month, February looks well above normal temperature wise, and less active snow wise than January was. There will be more snow melt this month, that’s for sure.

That will be it for this week's installment of The Weather with Connor. Thank you for reading, and I’ll see you in a couple weeks!

Council joins organizers for ribbon cutting at the Kemptville Winter Carnival Opening Ceremony on February 3.

Photo by Ashley Sloan

73’s have to settle for two points after two home battles

from Stubbings and Sauve when the Hawks were on their third extra man attack at 1:23. Kemptville pushed back with Melvin pass n’ go reverse to Thomas and Ty Whyte buried it at 15:06 to end the frame.

Too many bodies, plus staunch stopper…Tyler Melvin combination with Benjamin Campeau and Khaden Henry for the 73’s just could not penetrate the wall in front of their stopper to find the back of the net during Thursday evening

by the sportsguy Smiths Falls Bears were in Kemptville for a Thursday evening to determine who will break their previous tie with one game apiece, and the Bears dominated with a 3 - 1 victory.

The initial frame was a chippy, bouncy affair with each team trying to tame a bouncing rubber to find their target. Smiths Falls capitalized with a PPG from Conor Ronayne assisted by Gangl and Barrett to loft it through Alex Musielak at 19:16.

Second stanza opened with a quick marker when Faucher and James stretched one out to Jesse Lumsden heading down main street to flip it under the iron for the Bears winning goal at 1:25. O’Doherty combined with Vollett to find Ty White on the doorstep to redirect past Will McEvoy to put Kemptville on the board at 13:55.

Final twenty Smiths Falls launched an insurance goal from Alec Hamady with helpers from Brown and Parker at 16:24.

Smiths Falls game plan to slow down their opponents pace and get pucks to the net worked as they mounted a win. The Bears outgunned the 73’s 49 to 31 with1/4 PP and their opposition 0/5.

Hawkesbury Hawks swooped into Kemptville barn for a Sunday matinee, and the 73’s were ready as they clipped their wings with a comeback win of 6 - 5 in OT. Ty Whyte show was on display as he posted a hat trick, including the OT winner.

Dekon Randall-Snow dressed as the starter for Hawkesbury and then was replaced at 1:51 with Dimitri Pelekos. Hawkesbury drew first blood at 2:19 when

Spencer Gallant with helpers by Brennan and Besner put it behind Alex Musielak. Kemptville knotted it at 4:04 with the combination of Campeau to Henry into the tape of Tyler Melvin and slammed it home behind Dimitri Pelekos. Hawkesbury Nathan Gagne assisted from Caulfield and Brownlee for the tie breaker at 16:51 to close out the first. Man advantage for the Hawks when Jakson Kirk PPG assisted by Dorion with Fournier at 1:14 to open the second. Another undisciplined infraction by the 73’s gave Nathan Gagne PPG with helpers from Stubbings and Leithman for his second of the game at 13:52. Kemptville moved within two as Melvin back to the line for Thomas to Ty Whyte in the slot to pull the trigger at 15:06.

Jakson Kirk PPG recorded his second with help

Jakson Kirk with assists from Stubbings and Sauve for his second marker to put Hawkesbury ahead by three. With man extra, Yakubowski teamed with Coleman Bennett PPG in the rocking chair to ignite Kemptville rebound at 4:04. Yakubowski sent it up the wall onto Vollett's stick, over to Ty Whyte in the lane at 6:21 for his second. Campeau with Yakubowski so Tyler Melvin could count his second and force OT with 5 to 5 recovery at 9:50.

OT was over in the blink of an eye as Melvin made magic to give Ty Whyte his hat trick at :56 and awarded a 6 - 5 well deserved victory.

Kemptville overwhelmed Hawkesbury by 55 to 33 SOG with 1/5 PP and the Hawks having 3/4. The 73’s need to find a way to take advantage of their stagnant special team’s PP.

Kemptville will be rolling into Pembroke to face the Lumber Kings on Wednesday, February 8 for their fifth meeting of the season.

See you around the wall…hockey with EDGE.

The Kemptville Storm U11 HL1 won the silver medal in the February Freeze Tournament in Brockville. Final score 4-2 Brockville. Go Storm Go!

Update on return of fertilizer tariffs paid by Ontario farmers

Courtesy of Ontario Federation of Agriculture

In 2022, the Canadian government-imposed tariffs on fertilizer sourced from Russia in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This has placed added financial burden on farmers who are already facing record high fertilizer prices and pressures from inflation and rising interest rates.

Since the tariffs were imposed, the OFA has been actively working on this issue on behalf of its membership and asking for a fair resolution to the tariff issue for farmers. OFA has participated in many meetings with federal government representatives, including federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau, MP Francis Drouin who serves as Parliamentary Secretary to Minister Bibeau, and MP Kody Blois who also chairs the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food.

From the onset, OFA’s preferred solution has been the reimbursement of fertilizer tariff dollars collected by the federal government back to farmers who paid them. This is a similar position that

other farm organizations have put forward.

Minister Bibeau, Parliamentary Secretary Drouin and federal Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland continue to reiterate their commitment to working towards a fair resolution to the tariff issue for the agriculture sector. When the federal government made it clear that a refund of tariffs was not on the table, the OFA worked to develop and propose alternative ways to ensure these dollars were returned to agriculture.

OFA has been actively promoting these options to the federal government, which include:

Development of a new program or an investment by the federal government into an existing program that provides easy, direct payments to farmers for implementation of Best Management Practices particularly around emission reduction.

Establishment of a tax rebate to return dollars directly to farmers.

Investment in the development of domestic nitrogen production in Eastern Canada.

The founding principles of any method to return the fertilizer tariff funds to the agriculture industry must include:

Simplicity. Any com-

pensation program should be easy for farmers to apply to and simple for the government to administer.

Palatable. The federal government has made it clear that any compensation can’t be directly tied to or perceived as being directly tied to farmers who paid the tariffs.

Direct. Given the disproportionate impact on farmers in Eastern Canada, any program must return dollars directly to farmers in Ontario.

Timeliness. Any compensation program should provide payments to farmers as quickly as possible.

OFA continues to advocate on behalf of its members to the federal government and impress upon them the urgency of moving forward with a fair resolution for returning tariff dollars back to agriculture.

Toes