Issue 8 2023 March 02 NG Times

Fire in downtown Kemptville displaces residents

by Brandon Mayer

A fire dealt significant damage to a downtown Kemptville building last weekend, but thankfully firefighters were able to prevent a total loss of the building. The fire emergency happened on February 25 at the building that most residents associate with a local pizza restaurant, Mr. Mozzarella, though the fire started on the top floor, not in the restaurant. No one was hurt as a result of the fire, but it produced a large volume of smoke which drew plenty

of public attention. It is not yet known what caused the incident.

Deron Johnston lives on the second floor of the building that caught fire and was able to provide details about what happened. He explained that the heroic efforts of the North Grenville Fire Department ensured that the fire was contained to the top floor of the building and did not damage any of the lower floors, including his apartment on the second floor. However, a large amount of water was required to contain the blaze, so it is very likely that water damage will be found in the

lower floors of the building.

“Everyone got out of the building safely, including three pets,” said Deron. Mr. Mozzarella was forced to temporarily shut down, but thankfully all of the employees made it out safely. Deron had been away at a local event when the fire started, and he noticed the smoke when he was on his way home. He did not have any inkling that it could be his apartment building on fire when he saw the smoke until he drew closer. That is when he noticed a large number of people calling him to check and see that he was okay.

Deron confirmed that no one is allowed in the building, probably until at least Monday. As per protocol, the fire department must first confirm that the fire is completely out and that there is no risk of it starting back up again. At that point, the building owner and an insurance company representative will need to visit the site and assess the damage to determine if residents can be allowed back inside. “It could be a couple of days, it could be a couple of weeks, we don’t really know for sure,” Deron added. Deron

The North Grenville Fire Department tends to a fire at 103 Prescott Street in Kemptville on February 25

has an alternative place to stay in the meantime, as do the other residents of the building from what he has heard.

The excellent work of the North Grenville Fire Department rarely goes unnoticed following fire disasters, and this situation is no exception. Deron pointed out that firefighters offered to enter displaced residents’ apartments to retrieve needed medications and other necessities. In addition, part of the emergency services offered in North Grenville is a victim services division. Everyone who lives in the affected building was interviewed by victim services to ensure that they have everything that they need, including food, clothing and hotel vouchers as needed. “They were there to help,” Deron said.

When disasters strike in Kemptville, we often get reminders of just how caring the community can be. Deron revealed that not only were the actions of the fire department and the victim services division heroic, but countless ordinary members of the community

Return of the Electric Vehicle Show

were also offering to help those affected by the fire.

Directly across from the affected building is the North Grenville Public Library, which stayed open for hours after its usual closing time to offer a “warm up” centre for those displaced by the fire.

Included in this effort was library CEO Rachel Brown, who volunteered her own time to help.

While the cause of the fire is not yet known, it is certain that this disaster could have ended much worse. Bravo to the heroic efforts of the fire department, and the caring spirit of the Kemptville community.

submitted by Jeff Goodman, Sustainable North

Grenville

As we moved into high gear for planning this year’s return of the Sustainability Fair on Sunday, April 16 from 10 am to 3 pm, we started by asking ourselves a question: Do we bring back the Electric Vehicle show once again? We asked this of ourselves last year too, resolving that we would do so and subsequently welcoming over 1,000 visitors during the 5 hour event, and hosting a popular presentation on the subject.

Sales for 2022 reveal that Canadians purchased plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles at rates approaching 10% of new registered vehicles. While B.C. led the charge with nearly 1-in-5 sales being electric, Ontario broke through 5%, continuing to gain momentum year-over-year. Electric cars are not a novelty anymore, they’re commonplace.

People are choosing these vehicles for a variety of reasons. Regarding emissions, it’s true that Canada’s transportation emissions are the second largest national

source at 24%, just a couple percentage points behind oil and gas, and shifting to electricity is a real opportunity. Ontario’s electricity generation produces an average of around 40 grams of CO2 per kWh (gCO2/ kWh). An efficient electric car, achieving 100km on just 15kWh of electricity in the province of Ontario, would emit roughly 600 grams of CO2 on average. Overnight there are times that the grid falls to 6 gCO2/kWh, which is when most owners charge their vehicles due to cheaper time-of-use pricing. Consider that just 1L of gas or diesel produces nearly 3,000 grams and if we want to compare apples-to-apples, we must add to that the emissions to extract, refine and transport that fuel.

The cost of operation and ownership is a big factor. The same EV using 15kWh per 100km, if charged overnight at the highest rural rates in the Province from HydroOne, will cost $2.25 to drive that distance. Comparing to gas at a price of $1.40/L, a new Corolla costs between $8.00 and $10.60 to drive that

same distance. With longer warranties, fewer maintenance visits, and sometimes discounts on insurance, the electric cars are especially compelling for those of us who drive a lot. The higher upfront cost is but one factor amongst all these considerations that, sometimes, can be more than offset by the savings.

Our show offers the advantage of seeing privatelyowned vehicles with their owners. Visitors can ask questions to determine if a model will meet their needs, how they behave in a local winter, see some with high mileage and ask about durability and experienced cost of ownership. This is all from people who had these

same questions before their purchase.

So we will return this year and fill part of the arena with electric vehicles. We anticipate having all the most popular recent models like the Ford F150 Lightning, Ford e-Transit van, Tesla, Hyundai Ioniq5 and so many more. The Electric Vehicle Council of Ottawa will join us again and so will the EV Experience – which means there will be a variety of additional models onsite and ready for test drives for those who wish to sign up. More details on the display models will be provided as the event draws nearer, so be sure to watch this space or follow us on Facebook for announcements.

Choral Evensong Phil Jenkins presents at NGPL

Phil Jenkins, well known author, journalist and musician, will share interesting and entertaining stories about his interviews with famous authors on Sunday, April 2 at 1 pm at the North Grenville Public Library, Kemptville. Please join us at this free Friends of the Library event.

submitted by Doug MacDonald

Evening prayer had its genesis over one thousand years ago. The inspirational Evensong service dates to the reformation – words and ceremony from the 1549 Anglican Book of Common Prayer, music composed during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.

Past and present will blend in a special “end of day” choral service. With organist Graeme Arbuckle, the Holy Trinity Chancel Choir, and liturgy sung by Reverend Andrew Wilson and Archdeacon Jennifer Gosse.

Reverend Andrew Wilson, Rectory of Holy Trinity, extends an invitation to Evensong not only to the congregations of the Anglican Churches of Grenville North, but also to all seeking inspiration in the traditions, words and music of Evensong.

As early evening sunlight filters through the stained glass windows “step into history” at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, 105 Church Street, Merrickville on Sunday March 5 at 4 pm.

Following Phil’s presentation, there will be a very brief Friends of the Library AGM at 2:15 pm.

Kemptville Seedy Sunday

adult).

Dear green thumbs new and used (used to gardening that is).

The days are growing longer, the ice is melting and it’s the time of year when gardeners dream of vegetables, flowers, and how to make this year’s garden the best one yet! From seed to soil to compost to harvest, and everything in between, join your fellow gardeners on Sunday March 5 at the Kemptville Campus Greenhouse from 10 am to 2 pm for a hoedown packed with growing delights, and be inspired.

More than just a Seed Swap, this year’s Seedy Sunday features:

• presentations by Barking Bee’s Kristin Strackerjan, Ontario native plants grower Hugh Metcalfe, and the Greenhouse's pruning queen Claude Smith, starting with Seed Starting by This Little Hill’s Emily Kelly

• a Gardening Question

& Answer Booth crewed by Greta Kryger from Greta’s Organics (yes THAT Greta!), cannabis grower Chris Wilson, heirloom tomato tart Lisa Poushinsky and special guests

• seed and CSA subscription vendors Fair Sun Farm, Vintage Soil, Gaia Organic Seeds, and Annapolis Seeds (all the way from Nova Scotia)

• a gardening book swap hosted by the Kemptville Horticultural Society, local artisan vendors, and more!

Bring your seeds, gardening books, old pots and tools for the swap. Don’t forget your questions for the experts, some cash for the presenters (P.W.Y.C.), and brisket, chili and goodies by Bruce Enloe and the Crusty Baker. And have you visited the cactus garden? If you are missing summer, the Kemptville Campus Greenhouse is the next best thing (children must be accompanied by an

New to a seed swap? You don’t need to bring a thing to participate. Read on for more information and looking forward to seeing you there! This year’s Seedy Sunday is brought to you by the Kemptville Gardeners Facebook group and friends. Check out our Kemptville Seedy Sunday FB event page for details. https:// www.facebook.com/ events/1318813532028008

Seedy Saturdays are a remarkable phenomenon. They have sprung up across the country, encouraging the use of open-pollinated and heritage seeds, enabling a local seed exchange, and educating the public about seed saving and environmentally responsible gardening practices. Seedy Saturdays are fun, inexpensive events where you can swap seeds, get exciting varieties (as well as the stories that come with them), attend workshops and talks, meet vendors and buy seeds from seed companies. Whether you are a first-time or master gardener, seed enthusiast or expert seed saver, there really is something for everyone. Visit https://seeds. ca/seedy-saturday/ for more info.

Two steps forward

by Brandon Mayer

A couple of weeks ago, during the week leading up to the Family Day long weekend, a thought crossed my mind – “I really need this”. It was plainly obvious that my kids did as well. Certain times of year are doubtlessly more work-laden than others. Those of us who take time off in the summer or around the Christmas season know that these times are often lower in stress compared to other times of year. A long weekend is a welcome thing to look forward to.

As I sat and thought about how welcome the upcoming long weekend would be, I wondered whatever happened to talks of a four day work week in Canada. The subject seemed to be popular a few years ago. By happy coincidence, a friend also mentioned, independent of my own thinking, that the family day weekend was relaxing and that a four day work week would be very welcome.

In what is something of a rarity for me, I am divided on the idea of a four day work week. On the one hand,

it seems like an idea rooted in privilege, since it only applies to certain industries (and above all else, office jobs). The idea behind a four day work week is not to cut anyone’s pay. Instead, the goal is to cut out an entire work day per week, while expecting the same overall productivity and same pay. In theory, this works because people who are given a permanent three day weekend see such an improvement in mental health, happiness, and job satisfaction that they actually work harder and more efficiently on the days that they do work. The theory seems to be holding up in recent trial studies on the efficacy of a four day work week.

One problem with the idea is that there are certain jobs where productivity is measured in time, not in the tasks completed. For example, a fast food restaurant that requires a cashier to keep the restaurant open for five days cannot squeeze that cashier’s workload into four days and still expect to stay open for five days. The cashier needs to be physically present. Being at work so that the restaurant

can open is what makes that employee valuable – the employer is paying for time spent at the cash register, and that is the primary measure of productivity.

All this talk of “five day work week vs four day work week” decisions raises an important question – who is the arbiter of work-weeklength decisions? A great many workers don’t follow the standard five day work week. Some employees –such as retail and restaurant workers – may still work five days per week, but with a schedule that includes weekends. Professionals such as health care workers are often expected to work a grueling schedule of 12 days on, two days off, having only every second weekend off to recuperate. A standard four day work week would mean nothing to these workers. In the case of retail and fast food workers, it would necessitate a reduction in pay. In the case of healthcare professionals, it simply wouldn’t be feasible – to suggest that doctors, nurses and PSWs could work harder than they already do is insulting, and nothing will ever change the

fact that health care workers are needed 24/7 in some capacity or another.

So who “officially” benefits from a four day work week? Bankers, lawyers and judges, and government office workers mostly. One could argue that teachers and other education workers would benefit, but not considering that they would be tasked with somehow teaching the same material 20% faster each day. And office workers would only be able to switch over if they have set tasks to work independently on. If answering calls or emails from the public during opening hours is included, it suddenly doesn’t work out so well for the employer. There is no more “efficient” way to answer phones or greet visiting customers. I hate to say it, but it seems like a four day work week only benefits those who are already privileged. I suppose factory workers could aim for the same output in four days as they currently put out in five days, working toward the promise of a four day week, but that would depend greatly on the nature of the product being manufactured.

The theme of my writing in the past few months has been to avoid unnecessary negativity (for the most part), and so avoid it I shall. There is an old saying, “one step forward and two steps back”, meaning that sometimes when we make progress, we end up losing that progress and then some. I prefer to think of the four day work week as “two steps forward and one step back”. Yes, it would inevitably widen the gap between those with well paying jobs and those who earn minimum wage. However, progress for one labour group seldom leads to poorer conditions for another. Perhaps a standardized four day work

week would change our thinking of what represents a fair balance of work and leisure, leading to changes in working conditions for people such as retail workers and healthcare personnel. Ah, to be well rested and happy. That should be our goal for every eager worker in our society, as long as everyone is doing their fair share to produce the goods and provide the services necessary to keep things running smoothly. I would certainly look forward to longer weekends in my role as an educator, but I suppose the joke is on me – there is no such thing as a weekend when it comes to the news!

Dear Editor, "Our home on native land." I like it. My native land is the country of my birth. So many Canadians and residents are immigrants with a different country of birth that they cannot honestly sing that part of the national anthem. I'm all for changing it.

Jean Hartjes

Dear Editor; I am writing to respond to the Editorial in last week’s paper. As part of the 3% of the North Grenville population who are Indigenous to Canada I have to respond to the remarks about celebrating Heritage Week in “our quaint little community.”

The editorial espouses the benefits of studying history and celebrates the preservation of historical information that is only connected to development by

the settler community. As an Algonquin person who lives in my own territory, I cannot let this article go without comment.

I remind readers that this is still Algonquin land and it may startle many people to realize that there are no Indian reservations in the vicinity. The reason being that the Algonquin Nation was never treated with and no land cessation occurred. That is why there are no Indian reservations. It is still Algonquin land to which the Crown has claimed title.

I am a member and supporter of the North Grenville Historical Society and the irony of this institution celebrating only “Settler” history is not lost on me. It is my hope that any celebration of our collective history will not be one that ignores the original peoples who still hold legal title to this

territory. It is sad that much of Canadian history remains incomplete and many texts published do not adequately address the truth of Canada’s founding and the building of and development of communities that occurred by subjugating and displacing the original peoples.

As a courtesy, in the future, please try to acknowledge the Algonquin Nation and our territory when you celebrate your achievements which have occurred largely to our detriment and expense.

Lorraine Rekmans, Kemptville

Dear Editor, Re: Proposed Riverside apartments at the old Kemptville Public School site.

There are 22 homes around the perimeter of the

old KPS site. These homes, many of them bungalows, are on Reuben Cres, Prescott St, Blossom Ave and Dr. Gordon Drive. To answer your question, these were the folks who were at the Dec 14 council meeting along with other interested parties, such as those living nearby or across the street from the proposed building site.

If we are to be labeled “a minority”, let it be said that the impact of the construction will rest on our shoulders, and so why wouldn’t we take the greatest interest. Anything less would be negligence.

All of these homeowners have various concerns, ranging from lack of privacy, reduced future home evaluation, noise from industrial air conditioners, reduced sunlight as indicated in shadow studies, traffic congestion, and so on. All legitimate

to those of us whose homes butt up to the old school property.

The Dec 14 Council meeting changed the zoning of this site from “institutional” to “R4”, (4 story). Also approved was the increase in density, from 60 to110 units (homes) per hectare. A hectare = 2.47 acres.

That results in 168 units on the approx 3.5 acres site. With possible double occupancy or more, and visitor parking, results in over 330 vehicles, all exiting onto Reuben Cres along with the regular daily traffic. Future requirements for another traffic signal will likely to be needed at Prescott and Reuben South.

Most of the affected homeowners feel the 3 buildings with approximately 55 units each, and starting rents stated of $2000 per month, are not the most harmonious

fit for the area.

The “affordable housing” portion of the development is yet to be decided, with developers wanting 15% and Council wanting 25%. Can investors in the project really make the expected return when a quarter of their units are low income housing for the 10 year period? I doubt they are happy either.

The homeowners recognize change is inevitable. They fully acknowledge that higher density housing is needed, and affordable housing too. But I think most were expecting possibly one apartment building, say facing the park, and then a little community like the “Homes for Heroes” project in Kingston. Something that might actually have a chance to fit in with the existing houses of the area and not be a congested rats nest of cont'd on page 5

Systemic Discrimination

the only problem within the justice system either, police brutality within Canada and the US has been steadily increasing. Last year in Canada, the police shot 87 Black people, 46 fatally. That’s almost a person every day for a quarter of the year.

submitted by Zara Zrudlo

In recent years, there has been a lot of discussion about discrimination and working towards equity. Equity is a very intangible word, it can mean different things to everyone. Some examples of equity might be: everyone receiving a good education, home, job, food, and opportunities, no one being discriminated against, or no one being rich or poor. These things would be amazing, but reaching them isn’t just as simple as having a certain leader in the government or signing petitions.

These things certainly help, but discrimination goes deeper than just how rules and policies are set up. The way the system is set up gives advantages to certain groups. A good example of this is the incarceration rates. Indigenous Peoples in Canada make up 2.7% of the population; however, they make up 32% of the prison population, and 50% percent of the population in female prisons. Black people make up 3.5% of the population in Canada; however, they make up 9.2% percent of the prison population.

Incarceration rates aren’t

way too many people trying to live on the same acre.

After all this is not Toronto! (my hometown by the way)

For those of us on Reuben or Prescott, which are high traffic roads, we have never had “a quiet existence” (as quoted in an article of Feb 23, 2023), but our backyards do act as the only place where the traffic noise is tampered with an attempt at tranquility. This private oasis will be lost if a 4 storey wall of windows is allowed to tower over our yards.

So in retrospect, homeowners were at the council meeting to show disappointment with the clinical look of the proposed buildings which did nothing to complement existing homes or Riverside Park.

After all, it was the mu-

The reason for such over representation of Black, Indigenous and people of colour (BIPOC) people in prison and brutality is simply that the justice systems and many police forces haven’t been checked for biases or given enough knowledge about the effects systemic racism can have. Racism can be caused, generally, by under education: If people grew up hearing racist slurs and being fed racist misinformation, then they won’t know any better. A lot of people might not know that BIPOC cultures are rich and vibrant, and cannot, and should not be looked down upon.

However, that doesn’t excuse the horrible things that have happened, and are happening. Schools should teach about the Black Lives Matter movement, about the real history of Colonization, about LGBTQ2SIA+ rights, and how to recognize biases and stereotypes. If they did, then people would learn from a young age that discrimination is hurtful and inappropriate, and the things that people discriminate against are untrue.

The system seems to have been set up for marginalized people to fail and face discrimination, partly be-

nicipality that mailed handouts to each of us and invited the surrounding properties to participate by oral presentations or written submissions.

How were we to know the results were a foregone conclusion, that our participation was really just a meaningless charade, nothing more than a mandatory procedural requirement of the process.

Congratulations, another box is -- “ticked.”

Elaine McGreavy

Dear Editor, The view from here on Healthcare....

Not actually doing a lot of research but having lived through a lot of Health Care in my life time due to ailments, I can somehow see, in my mind anyways, where the problem lies. I really haven't

cause people in charge don’t always know how harmful the system can be, although in some instances, the policy makers have done it with mal intent. For example, there is actual science showing that the brains of trans people (people whose bodies and gender assigned at birth doesn’t match their actual gender) aren’t the same as other people sharing their gender assigned at birth. It has many aspects that match the gender they identify with.

Even if the system is set up for us to fail, it cannot stop the spread of knowledge, it cannot stop people from being who they truly are. Every person who learns, who fights back, even just by refusing to accept the way history has been rewritten in the past, over and over and over, is another step closer to changing the system and another step closer to equity.

Zara Zrudlo is a homeschooled, fourteen year old resident of Kemtpville. They love writing, art, acting, reading and anything to do with music. Ever since they were little they’ve cared a lot about activism and social justice, and hoped to make a difference in the world. Zara has written two and a half novels, and ran a newspaper for their friends and family for three years. They love hanging out with their dogs and chickens and spending time imagining having dinner with various book characters.

MUNICIPAL OFFICE HOURS

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: www.northgrenville.ca/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: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings.

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: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings.

• Thursday, March 2, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. (Closed Session)

• Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. (Open Session) – Council Chambers

COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Committees may be meeting in-person or virtually. Please see the Committee agenda for details on how to attend. Agendas can be found on the Municipal website at www.northgrenville. on/meetings.

• Accessibility Advisory Committee – March 13, 2023 at 4:00 p.m.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Equity Diversity and Inclusion Strategy

Community members are invited to complete a survey to assist in the creation of the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy.

The survey is available online at www.northgrenville.ca/equity until March 15 at 4:00 p.m

Hard copies of the survey are available at the North Grenville Municipal Centre, North Grenville Public Library, Community Living, Kemptville Youth Centre, and Seniors’ Community Services.

VOLUNTEER AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

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. Friday, March 10, 2023

Engineering Co-op Student

The Municipality of North Grenville is seeking to fill three full-time positions of Engineering Co-op Student. Interested applicants may submit a cover letter and resume outlining qualifications in confidence to Human Resources by 4:00 p.m. Friday, March 17, 2023. Visit www.northgrenville.ca/careers for details and more information on how to apply.

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

got a clue what this all cost? Yes, I pay tax on many levels in Canada and I don't begrudge them at all since I live in a country that is free (some would of course disagree on the freedom issue), and safe. I can walk the streets at night, only with my dog though, travel from coast to coast, and feel safe and protected from any eventuality. That is a small price to pay in comparison to other nations around the world; and if you don't agree, isn't it wonderful that you have the freedom to move to those jurisdictions at any time you like. But I digress. Healthcare was what I started out on. I think for the average citizen to actually keep tabs on what the system costs, we should be receiving a statement of services performed each time we access the system. It

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

can be either in the form of a paper copy or an electronic version. Further to that a sort of tax statement at the end of the year, like a T4 for income, maybe call it a H1 for Health Care. Yes, yes, I know the nay sayers will say to much cost involved with this idea, but just think each of these Health entities must report to the Provincial Government in order to be paid. To produce this patient statement should not be a biggie as far as I see it. What good is all this and how will it help Health Care. Well first of all we can easily discover the what I call the

"How" factor as in "HOW MUCH DID THAT ACTUALLY COST??" moment.

We have that nowadays at the grocery store, restaurants and any other retail or service orientated business.

To realize a cost of something is to know that what we have received is either overpriced or underpriced to an extent as to value. We have no base in Healthcare to understand value.

As an example, we can look at the CPP and the information that flows from there. A website to show returns and the costs to achieve those. A statement to show what

was contributed each year by each individual person or company. We have the ability to search with some clarity how our retirement savings are doing without much political interference since it is somewhat outside of any politicians influence. Keeping Health care costs a secret does an injustice in a democratic society. More clarity is needed. Hey maybe I'm dead wrong, but isn't that what Health care is there for, to keep me from being dead? Thanks for listening.

Leo Kleiss

letters cont'd

Family Focus: The joy of traditions and routines

trouble establishing control and setting the usual routines. From that day forward, I knew for certain that the happiest kids are never the ones that are allowed to wreak havoc with no limits.

ing for ice cream. The possibilities are endless and depend entirely on what your family is interested in.

Joint task force assists 61 human trafficking victims

submitted by Ontario Provincial Police

by Brandon Mayer

As a trained mental health counsellor, I have provided services to a great many children, teens and parents. Two common themes frequently stick out: kids and teens that have mental health struggles often don’t have much “consistency” or “routine” to depend on at home, and parents are usually too hard on themselves and think they are not doing enough for their kids.

Implementing routines and starting traditions are two of the easiest and most effective ways to keep everyone happy at home, parents and kids alike. Routines (and even rules), help kids feel safe. I distinctly remember many years ago, when I first became an educator, I worked a PA day camp alone with 15 kids. I had been an

educator for less than a year, and was not able to command the same control and enforce the same routines as someone with more experience would have. Gym time descended into chaos, but to my surprise, the kids’ happy energy soon turned into panic. I will never forget finding one boy crying on the floor, rocking himself back and forth, and mumbling “no one is listening, no one is listening…”

One might assume that a no-control environment is every kid’s dream, but it isn’t. Kids may think they want to rule the roost, but they also think they should wear shorts in a snowstorm, and have ice cream for breakfast. Why was the boy crying in the gym that day? He felt unsafe. The one adult who he would need to depend on if there was an emergency was having

Baldwin’s Birds

So what are some good routines for at home? Keep it simple! One suggestion is to eat dinner together at the table. This is a healthy habit because it is the time when everyone, kids and parents included, are most likely to talk about anything that is bothering them, or what is most important or interesting to them right now. It can be hard for families with busy schedules and hardworking parents to commit to eating at the table every night, and it’s perfectly fine to start by designating only certain nights as table nights – but make it a routine and stick with it.

Speaking of meals, a good tradition can be to designate certain days of the week for family favourites. For example, “Pizza Monday” or “Spaghetti Friday”. A tradition in our house is “no cook Saturday”. Other traditions can include things like movie nights or board game nights, a simple walk around town a few evenings per week, visiting relatives on a specific couple of days per month, or a weekly out-

In terms of routines, these can cover things such as teeth brushing, homework, bath nights, and the timing of chores and meals. Consistency does wonders for kids, but it can also help parents keep their heads on straight. Life is easier when everyone knows what to expect, leading to less anxiety and depression, and overall happier families.

Many of us remember certain “small things” from our childhoods that make us feel warm and fuzzy inside when they flash in our minds – this is the very definition of nostalgia. Parents often worry that they are failing. I myself often fear that I am not giving my kids enough of their own happy moments that will turn into nostalgia later in life. This worry –much like most parents’ worries – is folly. Kids don’t need parental perfection, they just need parental presence. We may never know in the moment which routines and traditions will turn into the happiest memories for our kids when they grow up, but it is nearly certain that if we try our best, they will one day discover the magic of nostalgia.

The province’s Intelligence-led Joint Forces Strategy (IJFS) has assisted 61 victims of human trafficking, with 239 charges laid. The task force consisted of members from the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Toronto Police Service (TPS), Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS) and Treaty Three Police Service (T3PS). Since the IJFS was created in December 2021, the 21 police services have:

- conducted 65 investigations;

- assisted 61 victims;

= laid 72 human trafficking charges;

- laid 167 additional charges; and,

- charged 28 people.

The victims ranged from 12 to 47 years old, while accused ranged from 18 to 44 years old. All victims were provided services and support through the OPP IJFS Victim Specialist or local victim services. Assistance was also provided by the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC).

Human trafficking investigations are complex and often require a cross-jurisdictional approach as they may cross into other areas of Ontario. The median length of time to complete a human trafficking case is 382 days (according to Statistics Canada, 2021).

If you or someone you know is being trafficked, call your local police. The Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking has resources available for victims and survivors of human trafficking on their website at canadiancentretoendhumantrafficking.ca. A national hotline is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-833-900-1010.

"Due to the transient nature of human trafficking, one police service cannot battle human trafficking alone - we rely on our law enforcement and community partners and on the public for support,” said Detective Inspector Jordan Whitesell, OPP IJFS Lead. “Together with the members of the IJFS, we will continue to fight for those who cannot, for those who live in fear, for those who do not feel like their life is their own."

Birds from all angles

Another change in the weather has brought us some surprise birds this morning, in the form of Redwing Blackbirds. A small flock of them appeared just as we were about to sit down for breakfast, and they were trying to get some food too, although having to clean away a bit of last night's snow to do so. Their red epaulettes were only slightly visible, so we didn't see

anything really spectacular, although just seeing them at this time of year is still an enjoyable treat. They always seem to keep on the move, so no good pictures were really taken of them this time. However, some of our other birds gave us a great unimpeded view of themselves.

I recently obtained some new type of feeders from a fairly local, Iroquois, Ontario manufacturer and sup-

plier, who is also an avid bird enthusiast. As you can see from the picture, the birds are getting to like them too. As you may be able to observe, the birds are able to perch on what they are actually eating, so there is nothing obstructing this particular photographer's view of them. The birds also like it too as they can see all around them as they feed, ready to spot any danger. To date, all our suspended feeder bird users have tried the new feeders and seem to like them, and they are certainly providing us with a different view of themselves, as they openly feed in front of our living room window. My camera is never out of reach on the occasions that I sit down by the livingroom window in front of the "Telly", and very often get diverted from the plot of a program on it to watch the birds. Thank goodness for the "Playback" button,

which gets quite a bit of use since my wife also gets diverted towards watching the birds in the same way as I do. I bet you do the same if you are lucky enough to see the birds from your front window, but maybe you only get to see them when you go outside. However you get to see them, make sure that you stay safe and well. Enjoy! Cheers,

John Baldwin

"Ontario has a higher average annual rate of policereported human trafficking cases due to the many urban areas across our province, including the GTA - compared to the national average,” added Inspector Susan Gomes, TPS. “Increased access to major transportation and transit hubs makes mobility very convenient, along with the easy access to larger hotels and other accommodation facilities. By working together as policing partners to address human trafficking across Ontario, we are making a difference."

"Traffickers exploit the lack of public awareness to perpetuate their heinous crime,” said Staff Sergeant Guy Renaud, GSPS. “The public can help by being aware of what trafficking looks like and reporting it. Family and friends play a vital role in helping victims become survivors, by recognizing when something has changed in their loved ones and reaching out."

"At the centre of the human trafficking investigations are the people who are being exploited - the victims,” said Inspector Tricia Rupert, T3PS. “Often individuals who come from extremely vulnerable populations are more vulnerable to being trafficking and it is estimated that approximately 50 per cent of the trafficked women and girls in Canada are Indigenous. Immediate support is necessary for individuals leaving these exploitive situations and we continue to work with victim services for support."

ABOUT THE IJFS

On March 6, 2020, the Government of Ontario announced funding in order to establish the IJFS, consisting of full-time investigators and analysts who are assigned to participating police agencies across Ontario, including municipal and First Nations, along with additional resources to the OPP. The IJFS has increased the capacity for policing by assisting in identifying, investigating and disrupting multijurisdictional human trafficking organizations operating within Ontario.

The 21 participating police agencies include: Anishinabek, Akwesasne, Barrie, Durham, Halton, Hamilton, Kingston, London, Niagara, OPP, Ottawa, Peel, Peterborough, Six Nations, Greater Sudbury, Thunder Bay, Toronto, Treaty Three, Waterloo, Windsor and York.

7th Annual CSE Consulting Job Fair on March 7

opportunities.

submitted by Tracy McDonald, CSE Consulting

CSE Consulting, Grenville County’s Employment Ontario Service Provider, is celebrating 30 years of service in our communities! We are excited to be bringing together job seekers and employers in one location on Tuesday, March 7 at the North Grenville Municipal Centre. This Spring Job Fair is offered in partnership with the Municipality of North Grenville.

As local businesses look ahead to the warmer months, many

are in need of additional staff to prepare for an increase in activity.

Local job fairs present a great opportunity to advertise job openings, to collect resumes from candidates, and to conduct initial prescreening.

Besides the wealth of local students who are looking for summer employment, there is also a considerable number of job seekers of all ages within North Grenville, who are anxious to get back into the workforce. Many local job seekers are looking for local employment

Interested job seekers are encouraged to visit CSE for resume assistance and tips on putting their best foot forward at the upcoming job fair. Prepare For the Job Fair workshops being held on Mar 2 and Mar 6, 10-11 am. Jobseekers are reminded to dress for success and to bring resumes with them to the job fair. We currently have over 30 employers registered! Your job is out there. We’ll help you find it.

The CSE Spring Job Fair will take place Tuesday, March 7 from 12 pm -4 pm at the North Grenville Municipal Centre.

For reservations or questions, contact CSE Consulting, 613-2586576.

HELP WANTED

The Rideau Glen Golf Club is looking for club house staff & outside workers for the 2023 season. Smart Serve required for club house staff and experience with equipment preferred for outside workers . Students considered with right qualifications Send resume to therideauglen@gmail.com

23 NGHS members and friends showed up at Gary Courville's heritage shingle- making facility in the former South Gower municipal building in Pelton's Corners, this Saturday.

Gary and Bev Ward graciously took us on a tour and let us operate the mammoth presses that make Queen Anne style shingles from flat pieces of coated steel. Gary began this project to repair the roof on his home. He is the owner of G. Howard Ferguson's impressive country house on Prescott St. at Van Buren.

On March 8th the Society will host a talk by Dr. David Shanahan on some aspects of Ferguson's career. It has been 100 years since Ferguson became premier of Ontario. Watch for more details on our Facebook page.

OpEd Reuben

Crescent plan fails on all fronts

submitted by Colleen Lynas

Shortly after the December 14, 2022, North Grenville Council meeting where Ottawa Valley Development’s Dennis Eberhard’s request for Official Plan and zoning amendments was unanimously passed, he celebrated his win on his LinkedIn page. “I want to thank Forbes Symon of J2PG planning consultant and Kollaard Engineering with working with us to gain staff and political support”, he stated. Developer lobbying is alive and well, and apparently very successful.

Anyone watching the December 14 meeting could not be blamed for concluding that the decisions made that evening failed to address the concerns of the residents present, and the bulk of written submissions submitted prior. After seemingly listening and acknowledging the legitimate concerns of multiple speakers, council members exited the public meeting, at the request of Chief Operating Officer Gary Dyke. Shortly upon return, and at the obvious dismay of multiple audience members, a vote was hastily called. There was no decision to defer in light of the issues raised.

The Ottawa-based developer’s plans to redevelop the former public-school grounds on Reuben failed to adhere to our Official Plan (OP); a roadblock he successfully stickhandled past a compliant council. The OP establishes a maximum density of 45 units per gross hectare of land to be developed. “Bonusing” provisions allow council to consider approval up to a maximum of 60 units per gross hectare. Mr. Eberhard received approval for a maximum density of 110 units, almost double the permitted maximum, even when bonusing is taken into account.

Based on available drawings, the rental project will comprise three four-story flat roofed buildings, overpowering the homes they surround, and is best described as harsh and unaesthetic. The builder has been relieved of any duty to provide amenity space; picture instead a sea of asphalt with 221 parking spaces.

And don’t let the promise of “affordable housing” fool you. In order to receive Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) funding, Mr. Eberhard’s commitment is that 15% of the units will adhere to CMHC’s definition of affordable housing (less than 30% of gross income), despite the fact that our Official Plan calls for a commitment of 25% for all new builds. The target market is families making “less than $100,000” and individuals making “less than $65,000.”

A project comprising one or more two or three-story buildings, adhering to existing density and affordable housing provisions, and architecturally designed and landscaped to be compatible with the surrounding area could have been a positive addition to the neighbourhood and the downtown core. Instead, I suspect future residents will travel by the developed site asking, “what were they thinking?” The path of least resistance is the only apparent explanation.

The beauty and limitations of Winter

submitted 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 connection 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 in-house 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.

#19

Matthew Thomas

Nickname: Tommy

Born: Windsor, ON., 2005/11/29

Position: Defence

Previous Hockey Club: A21 Academy

Hockey Hero: Cale Makar

Most Inspiring Persons: Cale Makar

Favourite TV Show: Outer Banks

Favourite Musician: Morgan Wallen

Favourite Food: Peanut

Stirfry

Favourite Hockey

Moment: Winning the OHF’s

#3

613.258.6607

Lorenzo Bono

Nickname: Bonz, Bono

Born: October 15, 2004, Montreal, Quebec

Position: D

Previous Hockey Club: Flin Flon Bombers SJHL

Hockey Hero: Sydney Crosby

Most Inspiring Persons: My dad

Favourite TV Show: Suits/Flash

Favourite Musician: Morgan Wallen/ Avicii

Favourite Hockey Moment: Winning the season in overtime in prep Hockey at Stanstead

Life as a Jr. player: Having fun with the guys, being responsible & achieving the next goals for NCAA

Favourite Sport other than Hockey: Lacrosse/ Golf

One word that describes me: Dedicated

Sales Representative Going All Out For You! 613 867-2508 markstegeman@royallepage.ca

by the sportsguy

Family Day Monday matinee was a spectacular event with a two hundred footer body punishing end to end action facing the Brockville Braves, with the suds from Overflow Brewing Company and non alcoholic beverages and food available from Fat Les’s for the 1350 fans in attendance. Kudos to the team that put the introduction lighting, glitter and finesse extravaganza together for this special meeting. Unfortunately, your Kemptville 73’s found themselves chasing the game, but managed to claw back for a tie to post a point and force OT. A sensational stoppers clinic as the Braves recorded two with a OT 2 - 1 win.

With such a close contest, the first frame remained scoreless as the Braves had to depend on their PK.

Brockville stormed the blue paint to draw first blood in the second as Aiden Carolan, with assists from Biniaris and Yarde, punched it through Jacob Biron at 7:03.

Kemptville leveled it at one when Trottier controlled the trenches, over to O’Doherty behind the net to Ty Whyte at the hash mark to launch it short side top shelf by Sami Molu at 17:21 to initiate OT.

Brockville took the 2 - 1 win when Nick Foster with helpers from Biniaris and Culhane to end an excep-

tional event at 3:05.

Both teams had 33 SOG with 0/6 PP, and a killer PK explained how close the exciting game really was.

Kemptville 73’s schooled the Navan Grads on Friday evening with 4 - 2 win after bouncing back from a 2 zip deficit.

Navan came out strong in less than a minute to put it by Jacob Biron from Tio D’Addario with helpers from Chau and Paone at :55 to open the first. Max Donohoe assisted by Paone with MacDougall at 5:23 to chase the 73’s stopper and be replaced with Alex Musielak.

The worm turned for Kemptville at 1:53 when Trottier from the wall unto N. Bennett twig to find Grady Logue top side to trickle it past Braedyn McIntosh to break his SO. Vollett combined with Logue to set a five hole marker for Matthew O’Doherty at 7:59 to level it at 2. Game winner came from Campeau who dished it across to C. Bennett from the line to Carter Vollett driving hard downtown and punched it into the five hole at 13:54.

Navan pulled their stopper at 17:55 and Yakubowski cleared to Campeau on the fly ahead to Hunter Brazier on wing to launch it home for the insurance ENG at 18:48 cap the 4 - 2 comeback.

Kemptville outgunned Navan 36 to 30 with the 73’s 0/4 PP and the Grads 0/2.

Walker PPG posted a hattrick at 6:23 with assists from Matteo and Hamilton on PP.

Carleton Place hammered Kemptville 47 to 29 with 3/3 PP and their opponent 0/0.

Cornwall Colts galloped into the 73’s barn for a Sunday evening excursion that put them behind the eight ball with another failed attempt for a playoff spot with 6 - 4 victory.

The initial period was a back and forth contest with Kemptville on the board when Yakubowski on the attack with PP to Brazier on the doorstep to Benjamin Campeau PPG to bury it top shelf over Dax Easter at 12:03.

Carleton Place Canadians dusted the Kemptville 73’s 9 - 2 to the delight of 220 fans on their home ice on Saturday evening.

Kemptville drew first blood with Benjamin Campeau putting it behind Jackson Pundy after combining with linemates Melvin and Brazier at 1:06. Carleton Place answered back with a lone effort from Caton Ryan at 6:53 to beat Alex Musielak and even it up.

The second go around was a one way street as the Canadians counted the tiebreaker from Matteo Disipio at 4:07. Then again at 10:04 from Gino Colangelo assisted by McGuire and Brady to make it 3 - 1. Carleton Place with a man advantage capitalized at 11:14 as Will Soloway PPG with helpers from Fehr and Ryan put it between the pegs. At 11:40, Brandon Walker PPG assisted from Hamilton with Colangelo. Kemptville recorded their final goal when Khaden Henry from Kelly and Warner initiated a comeback at 11:50, Carleton Place shut it down with an attack from Cooper to Bill Gourgon at 12:48.

The flood gates opened for the Canadians in the final twenty as Brandon Walker notched his second with helpers from Colangelo and Disipio at 5:12. Prudhomme with Dylan Pollock for a 6 point runaway. Brandon

Second frame with Campeau reversed to Merrett to set up Khaden Henry in the slot to give Kemptville two zip lead at 3:34. Colts Kobe Tallman assisted by Richer and Krenn hammered it by Jacob Biron at 5:50 to spoil his SO. Cornwall leveled it up at 14:55 with PP from Bowen to Lessard for Bradley Fraser PPG. Kobe Tallman all alone at 19:48 punched in a rebound for the Colts.

Campeau cycled with Henry to find Grady Logue on the hash marks at 2:01 to open the final frame for the 73’s. Cornwall countered when Chaka-Benjamin Ntumba-Muntu with helpers from Garnier and Fraser at 6:12. Kobe Tallman posted his hat-trick assists from Krenn and Langlois at 13:02. 73’s on PP when Henry combined with Merrett to Grady Logue PPG at 16:23 for his second of the evening put them within one. Kemptville lifted their stopper at 19:00 and Keanu Krenn ENG found the open net at 19:12.

Kemptville with 35 SOG to Cornwall 28 with 2/2 PP and opposition 1/2.

Hone in on the five hole for results...Benjamin Campeau on the attack over to Coleman Bennett onto the pillows so Carter Vollett could find the five hole for the 73’s tiebreaker during Friday’s game

Canadian Agricultural Safety Association Celebrates Ag Safety Week

submitted by Robin Anderson

This Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW), farmers, farm families, farm workers, and farming communities are encouraged to show how they commit to #FarmSafetyEveryday.

Taking place March 1218, 2023, Canadian Agricultural Safety Week is an annual public initiative delivered by the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) to raise awareness about the importance of farm safety.

This year’s theme, Safety is Our Promise, is part of the three-year safety campaign “Your Farm, Your Family, Your Success.” In 2023, organizers are focusing on practical

safety advice and inspiring conversations about farm safety while highlighting the reasons safety is essential for the sustainability of farming operations.

“We all know that farm accidents can have devastating and far-reaching consequences,” says Andrea Lear, CASA’s Chief Executive Officer. “Fortunately, many on-farm incidents are preventable. That’s why we want to ensure Canadian producers have the resources they need to keep their farms and ranches safe for everyone to live, work, and visit. CASA is once again looking forward to hosting conversations with individuals and organizations across the country as we work together

towards a safer agricultural sector.”

For more than a decade, CASA has been raising awareness about the importance of safety on Canadian farms through CASW, which takes place every year during the third week of March. In 2023, CASW is presented in partnership with key partners Farm Credit Canada and Decisive Farming by TELUS Agriculture. Other sponsors include the CN, Canadian Canola Growers Association, Syngenta Canada, and Fertilizer Canada.”

Additional information about CASW, including the media kit and resources is available at agsafetyweek. ca. The media kit contains feature stories, safety ad-

Roger Glen Collver

1960-2023

vice articles, public service announcements, graphics, and more.

The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health and safety of farmers, their families and agricultural workers. CASA is funded in part by the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal, provincial and territorial initiative. For more information, visit www.casa-acsa.ca, find us on Facebook or LinkedIn, or follow us on Twitter @ planfarmsafety

War Amps says ODSP increase in income cap misses the mark for amputees

submitted by Martine Lepine, War Amps

The Ontario government this month announced that recipients of the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) could now earn more money from working, without their ODSP support being affected. But for Ontarians with the most severe disabilities, including amputees, it’s status quo amidst the skyrocketing cost of living.

“What the government misses completely is that amputees receiving ODSP

simply cannot work – let alone work more – without the artificial arms or legs needed for basic tasks such as walking, dressing or holding objects,” said Brian Forbes, Chairman of The War Amps Executive Committee. “Thanks to outdated funding models from the Ontario government, these crucial artificial limbs are often impossible to afford for ODSP recipients, leaving amputees literally without a leg to stand on.”

Many amputees, and virtually all of those receiv-

ing ODSP, face thousands of dollars in debt to get a basic artificial limb. It’s often the case that they must go without, exacerbating health issues and impacting their independence and ability to return to work.

“While Ontario’s Assistive Devices Program (ADP) states ‘75 per cent coverage’ for artificial limbs, this coverage is based on outdated prosthetic costs. In reality, ADP covers only about 20 per cent of the cost of an artificial limb for the average Ontarian,” explained

Annelise Petlock, Director of Advocacy for The War Amps.

In one recent case, an amputee and ODSP recipient needed a prosthetic hand that could open and close to help her complete activities such as holding a plate, opening doors and other essential tasks. Her prosthesis cost $23,806, and the Ontario government covered less than half. The remaining balance of $13,598 was a burdensome debt, and an impossibility for this individual with her limited

Slow internet in 2023 is outrageous

by Brandon Mayer

There is no doubt that much of our world is now lived online – work, socializing, and communicating all often make use of the internet. For many people, entertainment is also delivered via the internet in the form of music streaming services, and content streaming services such as Netflix. The internet is an ingenious invention. While nothing can ever replace the value of face-to-face socializing, things such as working from home are made possible only because of the internet. This also does wonders for the planet, seeing as people who work from home don’t need to pol-

lute by driving into work.

Lately, I have been hearing from locals that we need faster internet and better internet coverage areas. I could not agree more. The internet is “new” when looking at all of human history, but it is far from new for most people reading this. We had internet at home when I was a young child. Yes, it was dial up, meaning that we had to formally connect and disconnect each time we had to use it, but we had internet. Yes, it was so slow that by the time my basic online computer game loaded, my parents were already making me get off so that we didn’t exceed the bandwidth limit, but we had internet. Yes we would have to log off

in order for someone to make a phone call because it was impossible to use the house phone and the gigantic, slow, Windows 95 computer at the same time, but we had internet.

More than 20 years later, why on Earth are we having to fight for decent internet service? Because of all that we expect the internet to do for us, in terms of streaming services, online gaming, smart home products, and working from home which often includes video conferencing, it is now recommended that every household has a minimum internet download speed of 50 mbps. Keep this number in mind.

When my wife and I bought our house, there was only one provider that

Roger recently passed away peacefully at home, in his 62nd year of life. Roger grew up in the Niagara Region of Ontario, moving to the Ottawa/ Kemptville area in the 1980s. He had a life-long love of nature and the outdoors, and loved to feel the sun on his face. Roger had a wide range of interests, and was always looking to learn and discuss. He enjoyed teaching younger generations what he knew. Roger was predeceased by his mother, Rosemary. He is remembered with love by his father, Ben, and brothers Mike, Derrek and Stuart. He was a good uncle to Chad, Pheonix and Liam. He will be missed by many aunts, uncles and cousins, as well as many old friends of his youth. At Roger's request, cremation has taken place and there will be no service.

Rest peacefully, Roger.

Condolences/Tributes/Donations

Hulse, Playfair & McGarry

www.hpmcgarry.ca

613-258-2435

ODSP income. The War Amps stepped up to fill the gap for this amputee, but as a charity that relies on public donations, our funds can only go so far.

“For amputees in receipt of ODSP, changing the income cap misses the mark entirely,” said Petlock. “Without adequate funding for the artificial limbs they need, amputees in Ontario will continue to be impacted in their ability to work at all.”

As a first step to alleviate this “double whammy”

against amputees, Petlock recommends that ODSP must be increased to at least be on par with other provinces. At a maximum of $1,228 per month, Ontario lags behind Quebec ($1,463), BC ($1,358) and Alberta ($1,685). “Better still, the government must recognize that this amount is well below the poverty line and provide a living wage to all persons with disabilities and increased coverage for artificial limbs – it’s the least we owe to Ontario’s most vulnerable and in need.”

could offer us 50 mbps. It was a wireless internet provider that I shall not name, but suffice to say that many people know them for their horrible reputation. I called with genuine concerns that if I signed up, we would not get the speeds we pay for despite it being a very expensive monthly plan. The salesperson was a smooth talker and he reeled me in. Long story short, the internet from this provider was garbage. We could barely stream one video, let alone work from home or use several different devices simultaneously. I used a website to check our download speed – we were getting 0.9 mbps on the day that I checked. We had waited too long to can-

cel and had no recourse but to cancel the service with a $200 fee. Could we go after them for not delivering what they said they would? No, because the fine print says that the plan is for a 50 mbps maximum speed, not a guaranteed speed.

We ended up switching to Bell, who I will name because even though the phone lines on our street will only support a maximum speed of 25 mbps, we have been happy with the service and have had no problems since switching.

It is no secret that upgrades and advances come to small towns and rural areas very late compared to when these advantages hit big cities. Part of that is the

reason why city living is so expensive compared to country living – the cost is for the conveniences and the amenities. But internet is no longer a luxury or a cool new thing. It is intertwined with every bit of our lives, from work to communication to play. It is essential for rural residents just as much as city dwellers, and it is time for governments to step up and make infrastructure upgrades a priority. We deserve at least the minimum recommended speed of 50 mbps in all areas of the Municipality, as does everyone else in Canada. It’s time for governments to stop dragging their feet and get to work!

Transit funding received from the province

by Brandon Mayer

Some familiar funding has been allocated for North Grenville by the province this month. Local MPP Steve Clark announced via press release that North Grenville will be getting $60,071 in transit funding this year, while the nearby city of Brockville will be getting over $225,000. This seems logical, given the population difference, but there is also a difference in the type of transit system. Brockville has a regular bus service, while North Grenville does not. A spokesperson for the Municipality confirmed that the funding for North Gren-

ville is intended to support the accessible transit service, and that it is something we have been receiving for a number of years.

The money comes from the province’s gas tax program. Funding for the gas tax program is determined by the number of litres of gasoline sold in the province during the previous year. Municipalities that support public transit services in their community receive two cents per litre of provincial gas tax revenue collected.

“Our government knows that municipal transit systems are essential to the success of our local communities, connecting people and families to jobs, housing

Tid Bit Musings

By Elva Patterson Rutters RSSW

How can you turn the tide? Spring seems to be a time of many changes, from dreary thoughts to optimism and plans of adventure. Yet for others, the daily hum-drum of life constitutes continued loneliness, fatigue, pain, suffering and disillusionment. The elements surrounding each person is as varied as personalities. No two people walk the same journey despite similar circumstances. You can only control your environment to a certain degree. How do you count your blessings?

To count your blessings, you must first identify the blessing as a blessing. Perception is the key; true, you may not be able to buy all items of choice, but can you purchase the items of necessity? If so, that is a blessing. Are you alive? For many, life has been cut short and the opportunity to experience opportunities is gone. If you woke up alivethat is a blessing! True, we all make mistakes and would like a do-over, so now you have that opportunity to change your attitude, behavior and words. It is a blessing to have resources to assist in making life changes, medically, spiritually or secularly.

Your vocabulary is the first criteria to examine. Use the words "choice, chose and choose" for a sense of control. Also substitute "I would like" for "I want." That alone reduces pressure on oneself. Dump the word "should" since it creates guilt and no positive outcomes. It is okay to say "no" to requests. There is no obligation to provide a reason to validate your response. You can preface the reply with "sorry, at this time it is not possible/feasible." For those who say Christians should always be cheerful, take time to re-read the Psalms and Job. Despair abounded. On the cross Jesus cried out- "Have you forsaken me?" What others have conquered allows us some extended freedoms and choices. What a blessing!

The past is the past, tomorrow will never materialize; so treasure the present as your gift to fulfilment. Be thankful for the iotas of blessings today. You have the power, and with God's help you will ace it!

The Food Corner

By Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville

and wherever they need to go,” said MPP Clark. “To make up for reduced gas sales due to ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s gas tax program includes one-time additional funding of $80 million to help ensure municipalities can continue to support their transit systems.”

Gas tax funding can be used to extend service hours, buy transit vehicles, add routes, improve accessibility or upgrade local infrastructure. Late last year, Council received a transit study that explored several options for bringing additional services to North Grenville. At that time,

Council decided to move ahead with exploring options for a municipal wide, on demand transit system, with anticipated implementation some time in 2024.

Having a transit service available – such as municipal buses – has been a popular request from North Grenville residents for years. While a full scale bus service may not be feasible for a municipality this size, options are being set in motion, and steps will soon be made toward adding onto what service we already have.

We use minced beef, pork and lamb. However, we don’t make as much use of minced turkey or chicken. The ground version of chicken is particularly great in a meat loaf, hence this week’s recipe: Chicken Meat Loaf.

Chicken Meat Loaf

Ingredients

• 1 pound of ground chicken

• 1 finely chopped sweet onion

• 1 egg

• ¼ cup Balkan style yoghurt (plain, unsweetened)

• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard

• A pinch each of: ground nutmeg, ground thyme and white pepper

• 1/2 cup of Panko crumbs

• 3 tablespoons of softened or melted butter

• 1 tablespoon of horseradish

• ½ cup of old cheddar cheese, grated

• ¼ cup of flour

• 1 cup of chopped sweet onion (try a Vidalia)

Preparation

1. Combine the onion, egg, yoghurt, mustard, horse radish and spices

2. Add the chicken, bread crumbs and butter and mix thoroughly

3. Place the mixture in a glass loaf pan that you have sprayed with Canola oil

4. Place in a 350F oven for 30 to 45 minutes

5. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness

6. When done, remove from the oven and top with the cheese

7. Put the loaf back in the oven long enough for the cheese to melt

Serve Chicken Meat Loaf with Basmati rice and a light vegetable like cauliflower. This dish goes well with a dark and flavourful beer, like a St. Ambrose Oatmeal Stout (one of my favourites). Try a dark full flavoured bread from Grahame’s also. The advantage of this recipe is that a serving clocks in at under 200 calories and also under 10 grams of fat (just in case you are still on your post-festive season diet). Please let me know how it worked out by contacting me at pcormier@ranaprocess.com.

submitted by Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit

Many health jurisdictions across Canada, including Ontario, are reporting increases in Norovirus and similar gastrointestinal illnesses back to pre-pandemic levels. This increase is thought to be largely in part to the significant lessening of restrictions and precautions which were put in place to control the spread of COVID-19. These restrictions and precautions were also very effective in preventing common seasonal illnesses such as Norovirus. While Norovirus cases are not reported individually in Ontario, the Health Unit has investigated several outbreaks in day care centres and retirements homes where Norovirus was identified or highly suspected as the cause.

In response to this increase, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is reminding residents to be cautious and to limit the spread of gastro-intesti-

nal illnesses:

- Wash your hands frequently to prevent getting ill

- If you are ill, stay home and remain there until you’ve been symptomfree for 48 hours. While the symptoms usually do not last more than two or three days, a person can still pass the virus to others for up to 48 hours after symptoms have disappeared.

This virus is a major cause of gastroenteritis (commonly referred to as “stomach flu”) in children and adults and can cause outbreaks in nursing homes, hospitals, schools, day care centres and food premises. The symptoms of Norovirus illness usually include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and some stomach cramping.

How do people become infected with Noroviruses?

Noroviruses are found in the stool or vomit of infected people.

People can become infected by:

- eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with Norovirus;

- touching surfaces or objects contaminated with Norovirus, and then placing their hand in their mouth;

- having direct contact with another person who is infected and showing symptoms (for example, when caring for someone with illness, or sharing foods or eating utensils with someone who is ill).

How you can prevent the spread of the illness?

- Practice good and frequent handwashing particularly before meal preparation and eating, as well as, after using the washroom. Wash hands vigorously with soap and water for at least 15 seconds, ensuring that all parts of the hands have been cleaned. Use an alcohol based hand sanitizer according to product directions if soap and water are not available.

- Carefully disinfect tabletops, phones, bathrooms, door knobs and other frequently touched surfaces with which an ill person may have had contact.

- If you get sick with

Norovirus symptoms, stay home until you have been symptom-free for 48 hours. Don’t visit patients in hospitals and long-term care facilities, and avoid social events and public places.

- Be respectful of staff at institutions that may limit visitors during outbreaks; they are trying to protect your loved ones.

Note: Though commonly referred to as “stomach flu”, illness caused by Norovirus or similar viruses should not be confused with Influenza, a mainly respiratory illness which can be prevented through vaccination. Presently there is no vaccine available for Norovirus.

For more information on norovirus, contact the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit at 1-800660-5853 or check out the factsheet on Norovirus in the reportable diseases toolkit on our website. You can also follow LGLhealthunit on Facebook, Twitter and lglhealthunit.z on Instagram.

Prevention is the key to reducing the spread of Norovirus

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

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

Saturn Rosewood Acoustic Guitar, 40 yrs old never used, in original pkg, $375 or best offier. 613-567-8533

Wheelchair, Fuse 5.0 with accessories; Shower chair with coasters & commode. $375 each. Call 613-5678533.

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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

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Experienced+local farming family looking to buy a farm. Min. 10ac tillable with a liveable house. Open to creative solutions. davidrbailie@gmail.com.

Looking to rent farmland for cash crops. Call or text Mitch @ 613262-1204. (8 weeks)

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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.

Kemptville Legion: Now Open Fridays 1-7. Free Pool and Darts. Everyone Welcome

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 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155

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6. Footnote note 10. Misfortunes 14. Metal fastener 15. Naked 16. Half-moon tide 17. Sporting venue

Solutions to last week’s Sudoku

Easy Medium Hard

Solution to last week’s Crossword

Contract awarded for South Gower Drive roundabout

by Brandon Mayer

Last week’s Counties Council meeting saw an important next step for one local intersection. Construction of the roundabout at County Roads 43 and 22 has been awarded to Thomas Cavanagh Construction. Counties Council approved the company’s bid at the regularly scheduled Counties Council meet-

ing on February 23.

Construction on the roundabout is expected to begin in the spring, and it will move fast. The contract states that construction must be completed by September 29, 2023.

The winning bid from Thomas Cavanagh Construction was for an approximate cost of $2.9 million. Bill Guy, the Manager of Engineering and Operations for the Counties, confirmed

Fire Department Food Drive ends in huge success

that traffic disruptions will be minimal during the construction process.

“Our intent is to maintain traffic in both directions on County Road 43 at all times,” he said. “To do so, we have developed an elaborate construction staging plan. The staging, however will not be paved. Motorists will be driving on gravel through the construction zone until portions are completed and can be paved.”

Calls have been made for years for safety upgrades at the intersection, which sees frequent collisions. Last year, the speed limit for a radius of a few kilometres around the intersection was reduced to 60 km/h, down from 80 km/h. “The United Counties is looking forward to seeing the completion of this intersection improvement project,” added Bill. “A lot of time and resources went into this project and with great anticipation we look forward to the results of that effort.” Warden Nancy Peckford also noted that the roundabout is a muchneeded improvement to the high-collision intersection.

St James Anglican Church: Then

and Now

By Brandon Mayer

A piece of North Grenville history is slated to get some much-needed love in the months ahead. The original St. James Anglican Church in Kemptville was built in 1827, meaning that St. James has nearly 200 years of history. The original St. James Anglican Church was the first church in the entire district. The St. James that we know today was built in 1880, directly adjacent to the original building.

The church’s history is rich just as its place in Kemptville is hugely important, being the only local Anglican Church. Efforts will soon be underway to restore the exterior stonework of the church to give the historical building new life so it can continue to serve our community.

Dan Callaghan, who is on the building restoration group at St. James Anglican, explained that although the building is structural sound parts of the exterior stonework are currently deteriorating. In September the congregation was presented with a proposal from their building group and unanimously supported a motion to hire a local contractor to restore the exterior masonry of the building.

“It’s a beautiful old building, and we feel restoring it is honouring to God and we are doing the right thing.” said Dan. With heritage week having just passed, the preservation of our history and our important local landmarks is at the forefront of many people’s minds.

In the weeks ahead, the Times will feature a series written by Doug MacDonald on St James Anglican’s past, digging through 200 years of history. While readers reflect on how the church and its people have impacted our community over such a long timespan, we encourage you to consider the importance of this local landmark, and see it’s continued value for future decades to come.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the restoration work or who would like to contribute to the restoration project can get in touch with Vanessa Skelton by email at wardens@stjameskemptville.com.

Local man wins world championship for rowing

now. “It’s quite a commitment that you have to make,” said Geraldine. She further explained that Frans has a competitive personality and is always inclined to “give it his all” when it comes to sports. He got a late start in life with rowing due to a previous back injury.

On February 21, the South Grenville Food Bank welcomed 11 different Leeds-Grenville fire departments to a gathering at the Prescott Fire Department where food collected during an 11-day food drive was dropped off. The food drive was a huge success.

“I would like to thank you for your support on this wonderful event,” said Bonnie Pidgeon of the South Grenville Food Bank. Overall, $8,500 worth of food, totaling a whopping 4000 pounds was collected. The donations will help 13 food banks in Leeds-Grenville. Great job, everyone!

Local resident Frans Bouwmans has led an active lifestyle his whole life. Now, at age 60, he is not only still competing athletically, but also dominating in his current passion – competitive rowing. Frans was one of many competitors who attended the indoor World Rowing Championship in Toronto last weekend. The international event is held in a different country

every year, and with this year’s event just a car drive away, Frans could not pass up the opportunity.

It turns out that the drive was more than worth it. Frans competed hard and ended up being first in his age group – he is the world champion rower for the age 60-64 category. Frans’ wife, Geraldine, explained that he has had to work very hard to get to where he is with rowing. He has been training competitively in rowing for seven years

Frans is very proud of his accomplishment. He explained that there were a total of 21 competitors in his age group from all over the world, with about half attending to compete in-person, while the rest competed from home in a “hybrid” post-pandemic model.

Out of all 21 competitors, Frans amazingly had the fastest time, therefore taking home the championship. Despite only being involved with rowing for the last seven years, Frans has essentially been training for such a win his whole life. He competed in gymnastics as a child, and has always focused

on keeping fit by visiting the gym for workouts. Frans was eager to take advantage of the fact that the in-person rowing event was not only in Canada this year, but in nearby Toronto specifically. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were no in-person rowing events. Instead, World Rowing competitors had to compete using a rowing machine at home, which was connected to the internet to measure their performance during the competition. The last in-person event prior to the pandemic was in Paris, which Frans did not attend. He is not sure if he will be able to make it to next year’s event, in Prague. Congratulations, Frans! Keep on rowing!

The intersection of County Roads 43 and 22 (South Gower Drive). Currently, a sign warns drivers that “cross traffic does not stop” at the high collision intersection.

Frans in action at the World Rowing event in Toronto last weekend by Brandon Mayer

Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin

example, has a major effect on likelihood of deficiency.

If you need to know your vitamin D level, a blood test will determine it. But as the philosopher Voltaire once said, "the best is the enemy of the good." Getting regular intake of Vitamin D should be the goal, not trying to measure daily levels.

Just in time for March Break

Family meals are back by popular demand

Once a month!

Pick up Thursday March 9 2023 & Friday March 10 2023 3pm - 5pm

Vitamin D is often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin". This is because it is synthesized in our skin in response to sunlight. The beauty of Vitamin D is that it's free – a great model for “all things in moderation” too.

There are two main forms of vitamin D: vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is the form that is synthesized in the skin, while vitamin D2 is found in some plant-based foods and supplements.

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health by promoting the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the diet. It also helps to regulate the immune system and may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as colon, breast, and prostate cancer.

Despite the importance of vitamin D, many people are deficient in this essential nutrient. In fact, studies suggest that up to 50% of the global population may have insufficient or deficient levels of vitamin D!

Symptoms of deficiency can vary, including fatigue, depression, cognitive decline and dementia.

Bone density loss increases the risk of fractures and falls in older people. Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Why does a deficiency develop? It can be difficult to get enough vitamin D from sunlight, especially during the winter months. Additionally, vitamin D is found in relatively few foods, so it can be challenging to get enough vitamin D from the diet.

Scientific studies have found income, gender and ethnicity differences in vitamin D status globally. One study looked at the vitamin D status of over 1,000 healthy Japanese adults and found that 40% of women and 26% of men had vitamin D deficiency and that individuals of non-Japanese ethnicity were more likely to have vitamin D deficiency than those of Japanese ethnicity. A study in the US found that people with higher incomes were more likely to be using supplements, and therefore less likely to suffer deficiencies. Consumer choices and food prices may also be important. Studies have found that consumption of fortified milk and mild products, or

Make it a habit to get some vitamin D everyday. The most effective way is to get sunlight directly on your skin. Spending 10-15 minutes outside in the sun each day with your arms and legs exposed will help your vitamin D levels, plus sunshine is a “feel good” prescription in general. Be sure to protect your skin with sunscreen if enjoying longer exposure.

But getting outside without layers of clothes can be difficult during the winter months, especially in northern latitudes. So don’t forget you also get vitamin D from certain foods include fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel), egg yolks, and fortified foods (such as milk, orange juice, and cereal).

If you're not one for being in the sun and concerned the Vitamin D is your diet is insufficient, a daily supplement can help. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D varies depending on age, sex, and other factors, but in general, adults need between 600 and 800 international units (IU) per day.

The upper limit for vitamin D intake is 4,000 IU per day for adults, and it's important not to exceed this amount unless under medical supervision.

Please Preorder the day before for next day Curbside pick up. Order & Pay online www.cateredaffairs.ca 613-324-3136

$44.95 Complete Meal for 2 + HST $89.95 Complete Meal for 4 + HST

All Family meals are picked up cold. Included are Chef's choice of Soup or Salad or Appetizer, Appropriate Side Dishes & Dessert and gentle heating instructions.

Pork Schnitzel

To start: Soup du Jour

Main: Crispy breaded pork cutlet with lemon-caper butter, Housemade Spaetzle, warm potato salad, Chef’s vegetable medley, Sauerkraut Dessert: Chocolate cake with chocolate canache

Red Thai Coconut Chicken Curry (G/F, D/F)

- Vegetarian Option Available

To Start: Vietnamese Mango rice rolls with sweet chili sauce (vegan)

Main: Tender chicken breast in a mild spiced & sweet savory creamy coconut sauce, Jasmine Coconut rice, Chef’s vegetable medley. Dessert: Chocolate cake with chocolate ganache

Oven Ready Freezer Meals $40.00 each : Cabbage Rolls (10-12 pieces), Mac n Cheese (4Lb)

What’s next at Catered Affairs?... Coming up:

Takehome meals Thurs March 30 & Fri March 31 2:30 - 5pm pickup Easter Brunch Buffet 10am - 1:30 Easter Takehome MealsTurkey and all the fixings or Maple glazed Ham

Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet Sunday May 14th 2023 10am - 1:30pm

International Womens Day: Rachel Swedlove

thrown out the window to safety. Zelig took a moment to check that everyone was out safely. The floor gave way and he perished in the fire.

by David Shanahan

One of the outstanding women in the history of North Grenville was Rachel Swedlove, who fled Riga, Latvia as a teenager dreaming of a life without oppression. She moved to Markham, Ontario and eventually settled in Stouffville, Ontario with her husband, Zelig. They opened the "Swedlove Wicker Factory". Their baskets were all hand woven. Unable to compete with machines, they closed the factory and

moved to New Lisgard, Ontario, where they started a ladies' and men's wear store. They lived in an apartment with their three children directly above their small store. When the building caught fire in 1929, Zelig helped Rachel out the window to the second floor to fetch a ladder. She intended to bring the ladder to the upstairs window so everyone could climb down to safety. Unfortunately, she broke both her legs during the fall. Her younger children were

When she was able to literally "get back on her feet", Mrs Swedlove moved her family to Kemptville. Her brother-in-law, Sam Swedlove, owned a general store (currently Panache on Clothier street). Sam wanted to move to Ottawa and sold his store to Rachel in 1933. She lived above this store with her children. She raised her family and grew her business. By the time her children were old enough to work at the store, she had acquired some extra space next door (now Kemptville Fabric Shoppe and Benson Auto Parts). She branched out into the furniture and appliance retail business. When Dan O'Neill's hotel (now O'Heaphy's Pub) went out of business due to prohibition, she purchased that property as well. They further expanded by building more space behind the store (now Ontario Early Years). Her empire grew from a

simple United Farmers of Ontario supplies store to a 20,000 sq. ft. retail space with 37 employees. They even had their own service and credit departments (an early version of today's coops).

Her hobby was helping poor people. If you were lucky enough to meet her, you never forgot her. She would go to poor sections of the neighbourhood at Christmas time and deliver parcels with food, dresses and shoes. She also had Christmas parties where everyone was welcome, but it was mostly the families she helped who came and enjoyed a good meal and a great time. Nurses would sometimes drop by the store and mention that a family was struggling. This was enough for Mrs Swedlove to pay them a visit.

When the war ended, Mrs Swedlove held a huge party for the soldiers. She rented the Odd Fellows Hall and hired an orchestra. There was plenty of food for everyone. It was her way of saying: "Welcome Home!

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!

To be eligible you must be a voluntary subscriber. $51 for one year subscription!

Draw will take place March 10th

The winners will be notified , and given 48 hours to respond to claim their prize.

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